By Gwen DeRu

LET’S CELEBRATE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.’S BIRTHDAY
….AND BLACK HISTORY MONTH!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY…TO YOU… LEBOISE DERU, LEKAMEREN DERU, JACARYS BRAXTON, LEKOTA DERU and DR. CAROLYN BOLIVAR HAMEEN!!  …MANY MANY MORE!!

“WISHING YOU THE BEST OF EVERYTHING!”

(Photo: Credit: JohnHopeBryant.com)
A.G. GASTON 2015 CONFERENCE – The 2015 A.G. Gaston Conference will be held on February 17-18 at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex   and will shine the spotlight on the impact of poverty and how eliminating the racial wealth gap can boost the entire Birmingham metro area.  The Green Power Presentation, “Eliminating Poverty in Birmingham,” will take place at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex on Wednesday, February 18 at 10 a.m.  Following the panel discussion, the 11:30 a.m. A.G. Gaston Empowerment Luncheon will feature keynote speaker John Hope Bryant, founder of the Hope Coalition and author of “How the Poor Can Save Capitalism.”  Other speakers are Michael V. Roberts, Mark Anthony Peterson, Eugene A. Mitchell, Margarita Anderson, and Randall Pinkston as Host Personality.  Robert Dickerson, Jr. of Birmingham Business Resource Center and Gaynell Adams Jackson of Advanced Planning Services, LLC are hosts of the A.G. Gaston Conference.  To register for the Feb. 17-18 conference, go to www.aggastonconference.com.

NOMINATE UNSUNG COMMUNITY HERO – There is economic empowerment through enterprise development, so nominate any Unsung Community Hero that is active in their church, philanthropic community activities or impactful in business community by Sunday at www.aggastonconference.com/information/community-service-award.com.  The A.G. Gaston Community Service Award will be presented at the 11th Annual Conference at the BJCC on February 17 and 18.

FOR HISTORY LOVERS…
BLOODY SUNDAY MARCH WILL GO ON – The Bloody Sunday March has been commemorated on Sunday every year for 40-plus years.  “The Bloody Sunday March is on for Sunday, March 8th,” said Sen. Hank Sanders (D-Selma) and many other elected officials around the State of Alabama. “We appreciate the President’s coming to Selma on Saturday, March 7th, but the Bloody Sunday March is sacred, and it must go on.” Sanders and other leaders held a news conference recently in the 3rd Floor Press Room of the Alabama State House concerning the Bloody Sunday March on Sunday, March 8th, and President Barack Obama’s scheduled visit to Selma on Saturday, March 7th.  Sanders stated further, “We have had many calls from people around the country voicing concern and expressing confusion about the Saturday date for the President’s visit that was recently announced. It is important for everyone to know that the Bloody Sunday March will go on as it always has – on Bloody Sunday. It will be held on Sunday, March 8th.”  Elected officials supporting this decision are Rep. Alvin Holmes (D-Montgomery), Tuskegee Mayor Johnny Ford, Rep. John Knight (D-Montgomery), Alabama Democratic Conference Chair Dr. Joe Reed, Rep. Thad McClammy (D-Montgomery), and Southern Christian Leadership Conference President Dr. Charles Steele.  Bloody Sunday is sacred.  “The Bloody Sunday March is sacred and cannot be aborted or redirected. It must be commemorated. It must be reenacted. It must be respected. It must be lifted. And it will on Sunday, March 8th,” said Sen. Sanders.

FOR BOOK LOVERS…
POEMS INSPIRED BY HISTORY – Poems Inspired by History is a poetry book by author Jill Dill Vincent, illustrating selected scenes of history, which will bring a greater potential for closure of misunderstanding as well as healing.  Vincent says that introducing “Poems Inspired by History” throughout schools, organizations, and people of all faiths would set seeds to grow love, compassion and understanding for humanity.  American Legion Post#134 has sponsored Jill Dill Vincent for nomination to receive a Pulitzer Prize, based on her writings in “Inspirational Poems Volume II”.  Jill has recently accepted a position as Board Member for the Cancer Awareness Network for children, Birmingham, Ala. Founder of “High Five For Education,” a scholarship program, which is in the making; Jill continues to move forward reaching out with friendship and love for her fellowman.  Upcoming events where Jill Vincent will be sharing bits and pieces of her books: AUTHOR’S EXPO – February 7th- Saturday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Birmingham Public Library (Downtown Birmingham) Contact: Mr. Jared Millet at (205) 226-3727; EDUCATION SUMMIT – March 4-6, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Bethel Missionary Baptist Church (Birmingham) Contact: Dr. Kris Erskine – Operations Pastor – (205) 798-0371; and ECHOTA CHEROKEE STATE TRIBAL MEETING – April 11, Time TBA at 630 County Road 1281, (Falkville, AL 35622). Contact: Commissioner Chief Charlotte Hallmark – (205) 663-5089.  Vincent quotes “learn from everyone you meet, enjoy life and be humble.”  Continuing with her passion in writing and furthering her goals, Jill is a published author of novels, a business management service book; Little Receivables BIG CASH FLOW, Inspirational Poetry books and her latest; “Poems Inspired by History.”

FOR BUSINESS OWNERS…AND FINANCE…
            DREAM BIG SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2015 AWARD – Tell your story.  Showcase your talents.  Apply today for the 2015 Dream Big Small Business of the Year Awards sponsored by Sam’s Club.  It is open season for the 2015 Dream Big Awards.  The hunt is on for the best of the best in American small business.  You can participate in two ways: You can nominate a small business by completing the nomination form or eligible small businesses can apply directly by completing the online application form. Nomination is not required but all eligible small businesses must complete the application form.  Nominations and Applications are due by February 2.  100 Blue Ribbon Award Winners are announced by February 16.  Seven regional finalists are announced by March 18.  The Small Business of the Year award winner is announced during America’s Small Business Summit in Washington, D.C. on June 8-10. Winners will be announced on June 9.  The winner will receive national recognition and a $10,000 cash prize.  Learn more at www.uschamber.com/dreambig.
2015 ALABAMA’S MONEY EXPO – The Money Expo is March 7, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at George W. Carver High School, in Birmingham with Honorary Co-Chairs Melvin Carrington Smith and Stewart H. Welch.  This financial educational expo will feature everything about money, including how to make it, grow it, keep it and share it with families and communities.

FOR SPORT LOVERS….
YOU ARE INVITED…..BASKETBALL GAME AND ALUMNI MIXER AT MILES COLLEGE – Basketball fans, Miles Alumni and others head to the game between Miles College and Tuskegee University, 1- 3 p.m. and mixer at 5:30 p.m. Saturday at the Birmingham Crossplex on Bessemer Road.  Ladies’ game at 1 p.m. Men’s game at 3 p.m. and then more fun at the Mixer at 5:30 p.m.  Watch the game and cheer for your team and then hang out at the mixer with friends.  Make it a Golden Day and support the teams with samples of Golden Flake’s chips afterward the games at the exit of the stadium.

FOR OUTDOORS LOVERS…SATURDAY, 9 a.m. Dayhike, in Bankhead National Forest at Brushy Creek and Sougahoagdee Falls.  The hike will be six miles long and is rated moderate.  We will follow a beautiful trail which runs from the Brushy Creek Bridge along the creek.  In the past there have been about nine waterfalls on this route, lovely cliffs, hemlock trees, canyons and some additional waterfalls.  If time permits group may visit the nearby natural bridge (not the one at the town of Natural Bridge) in the Natural Bridge Recreation Area of the Bankhead National Forest.  Carefully-supervised, well-behaved children age 10 and older welcome.  Bring a picnic lunch and water.  Optional dinner after at a delightful Italian restaurant in Double Springs.  Meet 9 a.m. at the Hayden/Corner Park and Ride.
Info: David Freeman, (205)491-8845.

FOR MUSIC LOVERS…AND DANCE…
HERE ARE A FEW THINGS GOING ON…
THIS WEEKEND… TODAY…
**ASHLEY AND THE KEEPERS at Ona’s Music Room.
**STEVE GILBERT at The Nick.
FRIDAY…
**HALLELUJAH JUNCTION at Ona’s Music Room.
**ROSHAMBEAUX, KICK THE ROBOT, JOE SMITH AND THE GOING CONCERN at The Nick on southside.
            SATURDAY…
**ONA WATSON AND CHAMPAGNE at Ona’s Music Room.
**TIDE AND TIGER LOUNGE, 8 p.m. on Graymont Avenue across the street from Legion Field.  Open Tuesday through Sunday.
**LEAVING EDEN, FORJE, STEVIE TOMBSTONE
at The Nick.

THERE IS THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER….IN THE ‘HAM… AT THE STARDOME AND IN DA HOOD AT TIDE AND TIGER LOUNGE…LAUGHTER FOR THE NEW YEAR…

(Photo Credit – Timpulnick.com)
**AT THE STARDOME…TIM PULNIK, TODAY… Tim has been entertaining audiences in comedy clubs, theaters and corporate events throughout the United States and Canada for years. Bringing a unique mix of high energy, quick wit and quirky antics, he rocks the house when he hits the stage. Most recently, Tim has appeared on the USA Networks “Burn Notice”, ABC’s “Charlie’s Angels” and is the voice of the Offensive Coordinator in the popular football video game MADDEN 2011.

(Photo Credit: Denver.Impro.com)
DON’T MISS…TONY ROBERTS, this weekend… No Stranger to TV and Film, as an actor Tony has toured with a major theatre play, has been cast in a sketch comedy pilot for CBS entitled, JUST ADD WATER and has appeared in half a dozen movies. As a host, Tony recently hosted the vh1 pilot “Dance Slam Cam, ” and a Guest Lead in “Nite Tales” for BET and recently sat on the couch as guest on The Monique Show. Keep an eye on Tony Roberts…America’s next great talent!!!!

COMING SOON…, DL HUGHLEY – February 6-8, FINIS HENDERSON – February 13-15, SHERYL UNDERWOOD – February 20-21, MIRANDA SINGS – February 7-8   (Tell Bruce that Gwen sent you.)  Enjoy some good laughter and fun times while you eat some great food with your friends. For more, call (205) 444-0008.
**MORE LAUGHTER…COMEDY IN DA HOOD at the New Tide and Tiger on Graymont Avenue. Comedians are invited!  Call (205) 503-3880 for more.
Look for more.
**February 17-18 – A. G. GASTON CONFERENCE – Economic Empowerment through Enterprise Development AT THE BJCC.
**MARCH 5-9 – BRIDGE CROSSING JUBLIEE in Selma, Alabama.

NOW…. BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUTS!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU… LEBOISE DERU, LEKAMEREN DERU, JACARYS BRAXTON, LEKOTA DERU, CASSANDRA GRIFFEN MCINTYRE, PHYLLIS CONNELL, BETTINA BYRD GILES, MICHAEL GOULD, EVERETT SPRUILL, DR. CAROLYN BOLIVAR HAMEEN AND TO ALL CELEBRATING!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL YOU BIRTHDAY BALLERS…MANY, MANY MORE HAPPY BIRTHDAYS!!  ENJOY!!  Celebrate ‘your’ month…I do…all 30 days ‘and’ some!

Well, that’s it.  Tell you more ‘next’ time.
(People, Places and Things by Gwen DeRu is a weekly column. Send comments to my emails: thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com or gwenderu@yahoo.com.)

   Comedy legend George Wallace wants to be your Valentine as he brings love and laughter to Birmingham’s BJCC Concert Hall on Feb. 14.
A star of movies and television, George Wallace appeared as the headlining star of his own show at The Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas for a 30 day run. Sin City showed its admiration by extending Wallace’s contract indefinitely and nicknaming him “The New Mr. Vegas.”
Known best for his “Yo Mama” jokes and his infamous “I Be Thinkin’” lines, Wallace creates a one-on-one atmosphere with his audiences, including them in the show and giving away a multitude of prizes during each performance. He celebrated his 10th Anniversary headlining at the Flamingo in March 2014 and announced his departure in April 2014 to pursue other opportunities.
Wallace still regularly performs in comedy clubs across the country and is an ambassador for the United States government, performing at military bases all over the world. He also recently published his first book, Laff It Off, on Chaite Press.
Remember, George Wallace at the BJCC Concert Hall, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr.Blvd. North, Saturday, February 14, 8p.m.
Ticket Information:
Tickets are on sale now and available by calling (205) 458-8400 or visiting http://www.bjcc.org/events.php or ticketmaster.com. Tickets are priced at $51, $41 and $31 (tax and fees additional).

Follow George Wallace on Twitter@MrGeorgewallace or visit www.georgewallace.net.

By EURWeb
Phaedra Parks may not be too stressed over her husband Apollo Nida serving time in prison, considering that she scored a healthy amount of money from selling her home.
According to TMZ, the “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star got more than $27K in profit when she sold the 9,148 square-foot residence last fall. In 2001, Parks originally bought the five-bedroom/five bath home for $322,000. Fast forward to last October and the reality TV star gets rid of the abode for $349,000.
The new money in Parks’ wallet comes as Nida begins serving eight years in prison for money laundering and check fraud.

By EURWeb

The Recording Academy has announced that LL Cool J will host the 57th Annual Grammy Awards, marking the “NCIS: LA” star’s fourth consecutive stint as host of the music awards show, including his memorable 2012 debut just hours after the tragic death of Whitney Houston.
Also, Common and John Legend will perform their Golden Globe-winning, Oscar-nominated song, “Glory,” from the movie “Selma.”
Pharrell Williams, Usher, Sam Smith and Miranda Lambert have also been added to the lineup of the Feb. 8 show in Los Angeles.
Smith, Pharrell and Beyoncé are the Grammy leaders with six nominations apiece. They will battle Beck and Ed Sheeran for the top prize, album of the year.
Previously announced performers include Madonna, AC/DC, Ariana Grande, Eric Church and Sheeran.
The 57th annual Grammy Awards will air live on CBS from the Staples Center.

By Tonya Pendleton, BlackAmericaWeb.com

Just 24, actor/comedian Lil’ JJ has accomplished more in that time than most people have twice his age. He won BET’s Coming To The Stage competition at 11 years old, then moved on the Nickelodeon’s Just Jordan and All That.
As the second-most famous Little Rock, Arkansas native in the U.S., JJ born James Lewis, is on his way to film school. But currently, he’s enjoying some down time in his hometown.
“You gotta step away a little bit and get rid of some distractions,” he says. “I’ve been here for a little bit. I just came home to get in the stride for college. I’m still doing comedy, hitting underground clubs around here. Gotta tell these jokes!”
Despite his accomplishments, JJ learned that the money is made behind the camera and believes that film school will only enhance his Hollywood marketability.
“I’ll try everything. I’m still young and I know those opportunities are available,” he says. JJ has already pledged Omega Psi Phi fraternity, which he describes as “one of the greatest fraternities in the world.”

Millionaire Shawn Bullard searches for true love; and this time the Pastor is in charge
NEW YORK  – Meet Shawn Bullard, an African American real estate magnate and former college athlete looking for true love. And who better to help him find The One than the man upstairs – or someone with a close connection? Enter Pastor Ken Johnson (spiritual advisor to the Indianapolis Colts) who guides Shawn and observes the authenticity and godliness of 24 women living under one roof hoping to find a love connection with Shawn. Not only does the pastor weigh in on Shawn’s choices, but when his very outspoken mother moves in, she too has a say on who could potentially be her daughter-in-law. While some ladies are sane and sweet, others are downright devilish leading to plenty of drama and bad behavior. After a series of dates, romantic rendezvous, harsh eliminations, and solicited (and unsolicited) advice from the Pastor and his mother, find out if Shawn finally meets his match.  “Match Made in Heaven” premieres on WE tv, Wednesday, February 4 at 10p.m. ET/PT
In each of the eight hour-long episodes, the bevy of beauties will face temptation at every turn. From the sweet girl next door to the smoking hot vixen; the polished career women to the innocent virgin; no one is immune to temptation. In this proverbial Garden of Eden, the ladies are constantly met with the opportunity to make a choice between good and evil in their quest for Shawn’s love. Should they undermine their fellow housemates to win him over? Or take the high road and trust in their connection with him? Does “do unto others” have an alternate meaning? Will Shawn be tempted to take a bite of the forbidden fruit these women have to offer?
Or will Pastor Ken and Mama Bullard be able to guide Shawn into the light so he can pick the right girl to spend the rest of his life with? Tune in Wednesday, February 4 at 10p.m. ET/PT.
Get more “Match Made In Heaven” at WEtv.com.
For more on “Match Made In Heaven,” visit www.wetv.com for sneak peeks, photo galleries, blogs, dating tips from Momma, and all the details on Shawn. You’ll also find the weekly behind-the-scenes scoop and exclusive videos. “Like” the “Match Made In Heaven” page on Facebook and follow @MMIH_WEtv on Twitter for the full insider experience.  Plus, after you watch the first episode, play along each week with the MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN MATCH & WIN contest. Pick your favorite bachelorettes and earn points for your chance to win $5,000!

Facebook page link: https://www.facebook.com/MMIHWEtv
Twitter link: https://twitter.com/MMIH WEtv

Jan 21, 2015
By Eurweb.com

Ballerina rock star Misty Copeland appears in the upcoming Rick Burns documentary, American Ballet Theatre at 75, in honor of the prestigious classical ballet company’s 75th anniversary year.
Copeland, a soloist in the company, joined in 2007 as just the third African-American female soloist in its 75-year history. It was a lifelong dream realized for the 32-year-old talent.
“ABT was the very first ballet company I saw live. I saw Paloma Herrera and Angel Corella dance ‘Don Quixote,’ and I was sold,” Copeland told journalists Monday at the TCA Press Tour.
The San Pedro, Calif. has spoken at length about how her family’s financial limitations kept her out of ballet until age 13, some 10 years after most preeminent ballerinas begin their training. Also, puberty caused her frame to blossom beyond ABT’s preferred boyish body type.
And then there was her darker skin.
“I wasn’t completely prepared to experience being the only African-American woman in the company for a decade,” Copeland told the TCA. “I don’t think that I was completely aware of how few there are in top companies within the ballet world. So, if anything, that was probably the biggest shock for me. But it would have been that way in any company that I would have joined.”

BY MEREDITH COOPER

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Rick’s reaction to seeing Ridge and Caroline kissing in the office caused great concern for everyone in the vicinity. Ridge confronted Rick regarding a particular term he keeps using in reference to Caroline. Maya was put in an uncomfortable position while being forced to explain what has been going on between her and Rick when Brooke arrived at the Forrester mansion. Having taken their relationship to the next level, Liam and Ivy reminisced about what led them to this point in their relationship. Having fought tooth and nail for her marriage, Caroline received a harsh realization that it’s time for her to move on when she’s presented with a definite sign. Brooke became suspicious of the ulterior motives behind Maya’s request for support of her and Rick’s relationship. Rick’s flippant explanation of the event which occurred at the office gave Brooke and Maya a cause for concern about his current state of mind. Fearful for themselves and the company, Ridge and Caroline plotted to get Rick out his position of power. Having heard that Brooke was back in town, Bill paid her a visit expecting answers about why she completely cut him out of her life after all that they’ve been through. Quinn confessed a concern to Deacon about Brooke returning to Los Angeles single and possibly setting her sights on him. When word got out about Rick’s tyrannical behavior at Forrester Creations, Bill and Liam discussed the great need for Rick to be knocked off of his high horse. Due to his most recent antics, Ridge and Caroline threatened Rick with legal action if he did not step down from his position as CEO.
THIS WEEK:  Katie returns to work at Spencer Publications in her new position as vice president. Brooke is blindsided by bittersweet news regarding a former flame.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Someone was shot and left for dead! Nicole lulled Serena into a false sense of security then made her move. Chad realized he’s made a terrible mistake. Aiden found himself stuck in an awkward position. Serena discovered Nicole’s treachery and confronted her! A guilt-ridden Will made a tearful confession to Kate. Kate’s advice inadvertently sent Sonny on a collision course with the truth. Abigail asked Victor for a favor. Nicole prepared to expose Serena in front of Daniel and Eric. Stefano advised Chad to focus on his original plan – to go after Abigail. Paul made an admission to Will about his ex (i.e. Sonny). Sonny overheard a curious statement by Kate. Nicole’s plan blew up in her face – big time. Chad’s confession left Jordan reeling and torn. Melanie and Brady’s first date didn’t go quite as planned. Melanie was intrigued when she overheard Theresa’s new boyfriend, Clint, making a mysterious phone call. Daniel accused Nicole of not being over Eric and ended their relationship! Serena finally found what she’s been looking for. Theresa learned Brady and Melanie are dating, and she’s not happy. Paige stunned JJ with her surprising decision.
THIS WEEK:  JJ tries to come to grips with Paige’s decision. Theresa voices her disapproval about Brady and Melanie’s relationship.

GENERAL HOSPITAL
Franco concocted a way to call Nina from prison and was shocked to learn about her new friend. Once Sonny learned the validity of his “Fluke” theory, he decided to take matters into his own hands. Julian and Ava devised a new plot in prison.  Jordan updated Dante on Bill Eckert. As a result, Dante was worried about the safety and actual whereabouts of Luke.  Bobbie, Lulu and Lucas honored the anniversary of their Aunt Ruby’s death. Fluke ran into a suspicious Dante. At the end of the day, Fluke became very alarmed when he thought he’s being investigated. Sonny and Julian thought they knew the identity of their enemy. Silas visited Ava and learned about her latest plan. Michael found Dante about to let himself into the old Spencer house. Helena calmed down a worried Fluke by telling him that she has everything they’re devising under control. Carly accompanied Jake to the hospital in order to try to help him piece together his memory flashes. Johnny unintentionally blurted out something about Luke to Lulu. Helena changed her strategy and had a new assignment for a reluctant Jake. After putting some pieces together, Carly realized that Jake has been lying. Ava had some surprising news for a fellow inmate. In order to get to Nina, Franco suggested a ruse to Sonny and Julian. Fluke caught Dante in the Spencer house and questioned why he’s there. Patrick inquired if Sam has had any luck in finding the item she lost.  In the interim, Brad asked Lucas about something he saw in his room.
THIS WEEK: Unbeknownst to the guests, a party begins that could lead to disaster. Fluke lies to Lulu about Dante’s whereabouts. Helena tries to keep Nikolas from the party.

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Joe tried to call a truce with Dylan, but both sides needed to agree to the truce or it wouldn’t work. It remained to be seen whether Joe’s making a futile effort. Billy thought Gabriel might be interested in more than Chelsea’s business. He decided to keep a careful eye on Gabriel until he’s able to figure things out. Victor and Victoria clashed over his decision not to sell Chancellor. Victoria couldn’t believe her own father’s pulling the rug out from under her, but she couldn’t change his mind. Ashley accused Victor of playing dirty. Phyllis reached out to Michael for help. Paul wanted Christine to put her work aside and focus on their future, but Christine couldn’t seem to take that advice despite her best efforts. Noah tried to keep the peace between Nick and Sharon. Neil asked Hilary to tell him the truth. Mariah let her guard down with Kevin. Sage confided in Nick. Jill fought to win back Chancellor.
THIS WEEK: Victoria has another run in with Victor. Sharon is cautious when it comes to her relationship with Nick.