"Chasing Dreams One Mile at a Time: My Journey to the 2023 B.A.A. Half Marathon 🏃‍♂️💪"

Dear Universe, The running community has been my loyal companion since my adolescent and teenage years, from XC to indoor and outdoor track and field. Today, I proudly wear the hat of Head Coach for the BPS XC team. I've even had the privilege of announcing indoors at the world-famous Reggie Lewis Center for the MSTCA and covering the New Balance Nationals scholastic track championships. The support, kind words, and genuine love I've received along this journey are truly priceless. However, let's get real here. Over the years, I've been on a rollercoaster when it comes to getting into shape, often derailed by the unpredictability of life. But here's the plot twist I'm about to share with you: I'm gearing up to conquer my first goal, which is to run over 10 miles, and my second goal is to complete the B.A.A. Half marathon on November 13th, 2023. You see, I'm no different from you, regardless of age or background. I may be close to the sport, but I haven't always taken my health seriously. Completing the B.A.A. half marathon is not just about crossing a finish line; it's a promise to myself for better health. Because the healthier I am, the better I can be as a husband, father, son, cousin, friend, Coach, and blogger. So, mark your calendars because I've got a date with destiny, and I'm determined to show that "Dreams Are Tangible Goals." 🏃‍♂️💪 Let's lace up and make this journey one for the books! With love and determination, Hatim Jean-Louis 🌟 #BAAHalfMarathon #DreamsAreTangibleGoals #healthierme

Foss Running Camp Tribute (Kevin Maloney)

Dear Kevin Maloney,

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the wisdom and advice you've shared that has transformed my life. Your words have not only inspired me but also others around me. Over the past nine years, Foss Running Camp has brought me the magic of true beauty, and I'm incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with exceptional mentors like George Rose, Michael Clark, Artie Demers, and Rick Kates.

Witnessing the excellence of individuals like Aaron Ladd, James Fletcher, Rebecca Trachsel, Dennis Sheppard, Perry Pappas, and Erin Dromgoole has been invaluable. Moreover, the impact Foss Running Camp has had on my student athletes at 242 Willey Pond Road, Strafford NH, has left an indelible mark on the city of Boston. I acknowledge that I'm not perfect, and if my actions have offended anyone, I extend my sincere apologies. You understand my passion lies with the kids and the sport that shaped me into the person I am today.

I deeply appreciate your belief in me and the motivation you've provided. Your words in 2017 about my potential to rejuvenate the city carry immense weight, and I'm committed to that endeavor. With your support and that of the running community, I am resolute in making Boston, Massachusetts, the global epicenter of running.

Thank you once again for everything.

Dreams are Tangible Goals

Foss Family Orphan LOL that did his way

#TheSonOfFranklinPark
#GrandsonOfMonetusJeanLouis
#DreamsAreTangibleGoals
#WeAreLive
#Year9
#AdversityBecomesDestiny

"Hip-Hop Journeys: Where Dreams Became Tangible Goals" Rest In Peace Santos Night Club aka Santos Party House

Rest In Peace Santos Night Club aka Santos Party House

In this edition of Hip-Hop Journeys, as we celebrate Hip-Hop's legacy, I can't express enough gratitude for how it has become the soundtrack of my life, paving the way for my global adventures and preparing me for the future. The stage was set in New York City, with an Indian summer vibe, the cool breeze sweeping through the city, and temperatures in the pleasant 80s, creating the perfect atmosphere.

On September 1st, 2010, the Rock The Bells Tour made its stop at Governors Island in NYC, promising potential special guests and surprises. A big shoutout to Dan Green from Clockwork Music Inc., a globally diverse company specializing in talent booking, concert marketing, production, online marketing, and project consultation, for promoting and marketing the event. The concert would feature Hip-Hop legends AZ and Cormega, along with opening acts brothers Willie The Kid & LA The Darkman. For me, this marked a significant milestone as I would be hosting my first major show in NYC while handling the promotion and marketing.

The primary goal was to ensure a great turnout, and the pre-ticket sales were already showing promising signs.

As they say, "If you can make it in New York City, you can make it anywhere," and that morning, I experienced the truth behind this cliché. Savoring my tea, croissant, and egg cheese sandwich with turkey bacon from the Bodega, I took the 4 train from 183rd and Jerome to Wall Street Station, and from there, I walked to the pier for Governors Island. As a native Bostonian, I embraced the city's atmosphere whenever I traveled on public transportation, appreciating the sights and being mindful of my surroundings. Governor's Island reminded me of Thompson's Island back home in Boston. To reach Governors Island, I had to take the NYC ferry, and upon arrival, the music filled the air, with two stages set up - the Main Stage for the headline act and smaller stages for upcoming artists.

Positioning myself strategically between the two stages, I seized the opportunity to personally hand out flyers for the show to people leaving the venue or moving between stages. Although I hadn't secured tickets to attend the show, a stroke of fate led me to encounter a distressed young lady who worked for Rock The Bells. Her date had stood her up, leaving her with all-access guest passes, which she generously offered to me. Gratefully, I found myself backstage with the crème de la crème of the Hip-Hop industry, no longer needing to distribute flyers. I was now adding the headline acts to the guest list for the evening event. My dreams had become tangible goals as I witnessed my first major show, with an iconic and legendary guest list. From Ras Kass West Coast legend & Lyrcists, to Consequence fresh off A Tribe Called Quest rocking, RIP Phife Dawg was still alive, Dres from Blacksheep, my big Bro Vic Black Gangstarr, and the Legend DJ Tony Toca Touch. There were so many more these were the pics I could salvage.

Now its showtime, I hopped into a cab and headed to Club Santos, also known as Santos Party House, located at 96 Lafayette Street in the Tribeca neighborhood. There, I reunited with my brother DGomez, and our friend joey had made the trip from Boston to film the night's unforgettable moments. It truly was a night to remember - my first time seeing AZ live, alongside Nature, Craig G, and the electrifying mic exchange that went down in Hip-Hop history at the 1:10 mark. It all flowed seamlessly, akin to a baton pass, with the crowd united in their clear requests. You can see my big bro from Queensbridge, The Testament himself Cormega, and The Revelations bringing down the house.

Here’s another angle from the night ! Salute to Grandgood

#Hiphop50 #MemoirsOfSagittarius #DATG #DreamsAreTangibleGoals #HipHopJourneys: Where Dreams Became Tangible Goals #InThisEdition #MotivationMondays #Throwback #NYC #ClubSantos #TribecaNYC #2010 #RockTheBells