We Love 3T: Michael Jackson Day
"His legacy must continue through us and I call all of us to action, to remember his life and legacy." -Amber
We Love 3T:Michael Jackson Day...This year for We Love 3T: Michael Jackson Day. I have created a one-of-a kind page that will be filled with my wonderful memories as a fan of Michael Jackson and I hope yours as well.
This tribute is how I feel Michael Jackson should be remembered. He was much more than a singer, song writer, producer, entertainer and an icon. He was a humanitarian, who went all around the world touching millions and billions of lives everywhere. He loved his family and his fans. As a fan we loved him right back!! I got to thinking of the overwhelming number of artist, entertainers and fans who paid tribute to Michael Jackson during the time of his passing. All the fans that gathered on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, outside the Apollo, on the streets and bridges. To those who came together at his memorial service. So many wonderful words were shared about him through several different media outlets and I am including a few of them on this page from Essence Magazine, September 2009 special edition. I am also including some of my favorite scrapbook pictures of Michael Jackson throughout the years. I am not able to tell you all the media outlets that I collected these photos from but, I can tell you that I do not own the copyright for them and I ask that you please be respectful to the owners of these photographs. These pictures are not for sale. These are just my memories as a fan. I ask that you do not repost photos using my name, the site or any of our supporters names. He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. -Quincy Jones (Essence, September 2009) Exclusive Interview with Mrs. Kathy Knapp...I am so happy to say she is back! We have featured Mrs. Kathy Knapp here on the site two times and each time she has filled our hearts with joy. Last year after sharing with us more of her exciting designs in tribute to Michael Jackson she and her husband Mr. Bill Knapp were each given a virtual sunflower in our sunflower garden for Michael. To say a very special thank she created a one-of-a-kind design to share with us today and has agree to do a very special interview.
Please enjoy the designs and interview below............ Amber: How do you design each piece? Mrs. Kathy Knapp: I never sketch my works of wearable art. I tend to work very intuitively. Different fabric collections inspire and speak to me. After machine quilting the background the surface design simply creates itself with a needle and thread in my hand. As paraphrased by Michael Jackson , “I like to create from my heart and never over think a concept.” Amber: How long does it take you to design each piece? Mrs. Kathy Knapp: Generally speaking, each ensemble and coordinating accessories take about 2-3 months to complete. All my detail work is done by hand including application of the bordering vintage trims as well as various couture finishes inside each garment. Amber: Are there special types of jewels or beads that you like to use when you are designing each piece? Mrs. Kathy Knapp: I like to be innovative in my work and use antique gold beads commonly employed for jewelry making instead of more traditional glass beads as part of my surface design. I also like to recycle old bracelets, jewelry pieces, and men’s silk ties; deconstruct them and then re-incorporate them into my designs, which adds an element of sustainability. Finally, Swarovski crystals add that special sparkle to catch the viewer’s eye. Amber: Tell us about this special piece you designed? Mrs. Kathy Knapp: I designed this suit to simulate a sunflower as a thank you to be included in the special “Sunflowers For Michael” project. This is truly one of the greatest honors of my life. The surface design was influenced as a cross between the “Dangerous” album cover and the Egyptian influence of the “Remember the Time” music video. I was especially attracted to the bee on the dangerous album cover and it is reflected in each of the individual pieces. The embellishment design repeated throughout the ensemble represents stylized sunflowers. In closing, I am always inspired by MJ’s motivational plaque stating “Those Who Reach, Touch The Stars”. My hope is to encourage others not to be afraid and just achieve your dreams and expectations. Amber: Do you have a favorite Michael Jackson song? Why is it your favorite? Mrs. Kathy Knapp: I love the song “Black or While” as the message is so universal and important for society to remember the need to continuously strive for improvement; it is far too easy to regress. My panda bears are a graphic reference to MJ’s work; while the suitcase containing them reminds the viewer of how he choreographed his Billie Jean dance routine during his 30th anniversary celebration, working out of his own suitcase. Amber: Michael Jackson was big on charities and giving back. We are very thankful for these amazing designs that you have shared with us. Are there any charities that are near and dear to heart? Mrs. Kathy Knapp: My favorite charity is the World Wildlife Fund as I am so interested in preserving animals and birds from extinction. I am especially interested in saving the Giant Panda as the species is in such danger from human encroachment and over development; especially in light of their natural difficulty in breeding and keeping newborns alive. After having the privilege of owning llamas for eighteen years, my husband and were one of the founding members of the International Camelid Institute which strives to ensure the health and safety for llamas, alpacas and their wild progenitors, the guanaco and vicuña native to South America. Thank you so much Mrs. Knapp for honoring us with these amazing designs and taking time out of your busy schedule to do an interview for us. Check Out "Spotlight on Tommy Parker".....As a producer for the power house R.J. Productions, with the growing popularity of Austin Brown and the Backpack Kids, fans wanted to know more and more about Tommy Parker.
His work with his mentor and business partner Rodney Jerkins /Darkchild and his strong ability on the keys as backup vocals for Austin Brown’s band has made him a fan favorite. Read what Tommy Parker shares about his thoughts on Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson at: http://welove3t.weebly.com/highlights-exclusives--more.html "If you listen to his music, Michael was always on a quest for spirituality and love". - Gladys Knight (Essence, September 2009) Did You Know.....August 29, 1988: At his 30th birthday Michael performs a concert in Leeds, England for the English charity-organization "Give For Life". The goal of this
organization is the immunization of children. Michael presents a check for 65,000 pounds. August 16, 1992: 6 year old Nicholas Killen, who lost his eyesight caused by a life aiding cancer surgery, meets Michael backstage in Leeds, England. Incredible Art...
Our Mission...June 25, 2012
Remembering the Legend (It Starts With Us) The reason for this day is not to remember the day Michael Jackson died but, to remember the man behind the music, to remember the man who cared about the world and humanity. This day is to honor and remember the life and legacy of Michael Jackson. This not a celebration of death but, a celebration of life. When Michael Jackson was called home to glory June 25, 2009, it will never be just another day for me and I charged those who loved and love him as much as I did and do, to make this day and next few days after a wonderful tribute to Michael Jackson. As difficult as June 25 is for some of us, I don’t feel in my heart Michael would want us to act like this was just another day, sit around and be sad. I feel Michael is at peace with the Father and we should use this day to stop and remember him. His legacy must continue through us and I call all of us to action, to remember his life and legacy. What Can I Do As a Fan to Remember Michael Jackson? *Many send flowers and cards to Michael's resting place. *Some wear Michael Jackson inspired outfits. *Others listen and watch his videos all day long. *We Love 3T is asking everyone to light a candle in your window starting June 25- 29. June 26, 2012- Remembering the Glove...
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"As a child I went to sleep listening to all the greats such as Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, and so many more. These legends inspired me to sing and dance at a very early age". He broke barriers, he changed radio formats. With music, he made it possible for people like Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama to impact the mainstream world. His legacy is unparalleled. -Usher (Essence, September 2009) How You Can Help....During our planning for the We Love 3T: Michael Jackson Day, tragedies in Boston, Texas and Oklahoma has happened. Now Colorado needs our help.
I feel in my heart that if Michael Jackson was still here, he would being giving to those cities as much as he could, therefore if you would like to help those in need please log on to: The Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org, The Salvation Army: https://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/, and Habitat for Humanity: http://www.habitat.org. I hope that starting June 25, 2012 Michael Jackson fans will be inspired to learn or remember information about him and set goals for themselves that they will be able to achieve. I truly hope that this will help to continue the Michael Jackson legacy and inspire many of you to create your own. Thank you to everyone for your support.
-Amber *Foundations Near and Dear to Amber's Heart Pennies for Patients: Since 1994 "Pennies for Patients" has raised millions of dollars in pennies and other spare change by more than 10 million elementary, middle and high school students throughout the country. The funds that are collected during a three-week period benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Students across the country collect pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters during the "Pennies for Patients" campaigns. In the "Pennies for Patients" campaign the class collecting the most in each school receives a pizza party, computers, electronics and sports equipment. To learn more about "Pennies for Patients" please log on to: http://www.schoolandyouth.org/school/Controller?action=loadContent&itemid=91060 ____________________________________________________ Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: The Leukemia & Lymphona Society (LLS) was founded in 1949 and it is the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) mission is to help find a cure for Leukemia, Lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and Myeloma. The society is also wanting to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. The society has created the Information Resource Center (IRC) to provide blood cancer patients, their families and health professionals accurate, current disease information and support. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has 64 chapters nationwide, as well as 4 chapters in Canada. The nationwide chapters have volunteer fundraising events and activities including "Team in Training", "Light The Night Walk" and "School & Youth". "Team in Training" is a sports program where volunteers train to complete in endurance sport events while fundraising to support the fight against blood cancers. "Light The Night Walk" is a community-based walk that celebrates patients battling cancer, their families and supports. "School & Youth" is where K-12 student services and cooperative team programs come together to raise awareness and funds to fight blood cancer. To learn more about The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society please log on to: http://www.lls.org/ _____________________________________________________________ The National Breast Cancer Foundations: The National Breast Cancer Foundation's mission is to save lives through early detection and to provide mammograms for those in need. The foundations mission includes increasing awareness through education, providing diagnostic breast care services in need and providing nurturing support services. To learn more about the National Breast Cancer Foundations please log on to: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org _____________________________________________________________ Ronald McDonald House Charities: The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is to create, find and support programs that directly improve the health and well being of children. Their mission is based on core values which include focusing on the critical needs of children, celebrating the diversity of the programs they offer and the staff, volunteers and donors who make them possible. The charity has stayed true to their heritage for more than 36 years of responsible stewardship operating with accountability and transparency. To learn more about Ronald McDonald House Charities please log on to: http://rmhc.org/?gclid=CM69kqON-68CFQiynQodQGQ5Rw ____________________________________________________________ Friends of Treasure: Friends of Treasure is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization that was founded by Treasure's mom in 2010. Treasure and her family have experienced so much loss and an endless amount of love and kindness during their now 7 year battle. Treasure's mom wanted to be able to help other individuals and families who are suffering from these rare tumors categorized as Vascular Malformations. These occur in less than 1% of the population and can have life altering effects. The organization has also partnered with Ben's Friend's to help all children and their famililes who suffer from rare diseases. Treasure was diagnosed with her tumor at the age of 5. Treasure has been featured on Fox 11 news and the local newspapers as they followed her story for more than 6 years. On 8-31-2010 Treasure had her last of 12 surgeries and now helps the foundation. For more information on Friends of Treasure please log on to: http://www.friendsoftreasure.com/home.html June 27, 2012- Remembering the Sunflower...
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