Multicultural Magic
How the Valley Taught Me to Love Differences
Blogs
Stories Beyond the Pages
Welcome to the blog, a space where the spirit of the Valley lives on.
Here, Julius Burns Smith shares deeper reflections, behind-the-scenes stories, community spotlights, and thought-provoking articles inspired by the memoir. Whether it’s uncovering historical Bronx gems, revisiting pivotal cultural moments, or simply sharing life lessons from his journey, this blog keeps the conversation going.
Bronx Then & Now: What Happened to the Valley?
The Valley Julius remembers is long gone, but its echoes remain. In this article, we compare the Bronx of the…
Love, Loss, and Lavinia: A Son’s Tribute
In one of the memoir’s most emotional chapters, Julius recounts the profound loss of his mother, Lavinia Smith, a trailblazer,…
When Freedomland Came to Town
Before Co-op City rose from the marshes, the Bronx was home to Freedomland USA, an ambitious, short-lived theme park billed…
The Valley: Where Childhood Was a Shared Story
In a world before smartphones and streaming, childhood was made of stickball games in the street, front stoops filled with…
The Valley: Where Childhood Was a Shared Story
In a world before smartphones and streaming, childhood was made of stickball games in the street, front stoops filled with laughter, and neighbors who knew your name. Julius Burns Smith takes us back to a time when kids played until the streetlights came on, and every corner held a new adventure. Read how his Bronx neighborhood became a haven of unity and joy.
When Freedomland Came to Town
Before Co-op City rose from the marshes, the Bronx was home to Freedomland USA, an ambitious, short-lived theme park billed as the “Disneyland of the East.” In this heartfelt reflection, Julius shares what it meant for the neighborhood kids to have a magical park just minutes from home. It was more than rides, it was freedom, wonder, and possibility.
Love, Loss, and Lavinia: A Son’s Tribute
In one of the memoir’s most emotional chapters, Julius recounts the profound loss of his mother, Lavinia Smith, a trailblazer, educator, and inspiration. This touching tribute explores the sacrifices she made, the legacy she left, and the strength she passed on.
Bronx Then & Now: What Happened to the Valley?
The Valley Julius remembers is long gone, but its echoes remain. In this article, we compare the Bronx of the 1960s to today’s ever-evolving borough. What’s changed, what remains, and why preserving these memories matters now more than ever.
