Author Thomas Barr Jr. has spent over a decade working in government. Now he taps that experience in the first of a planned series of fiction books which portray Miami’s political, business and entertainment cultures. The book is entitled “Overlords Karma: Miami’s Urban Chronicles Volume I” and is a biopic of the life of former Miami Overtown Commissioner Art Teele.
Thomas drew from his years of experience as a Miami resident when writing this book. “Many African American politicians such as Detroit’s former mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, 43, and of recent Charlotte North Carolina Mayor Patrick Cannon, 47, fall prey to the lure of money and power,” the author said. “One must always remember where they came from and not fall prey to disillusionment.”
Thomas based his main character on the tragic suicide of Art Teele; the former Overtown Miami commissioner and wants to tell his story to others aspiring to that profession. “The Youth must adhere to certain ethics when it comes to leadership,” said the author.
The book details events which influence the main character in negative ways and documents his tragic errors in judgment. The protagonist in an attempt to take control of his life makes the ultimate decision in deciding his fate. Author excerpts at www.thomasbarrjr.com.
Thomas Barr Jr. in his debut novel attempts to chronicle the life styles of African American politicians and why they go awry. The book was released on April 25, 2014 with a campaign for movie adaptation. The book is available on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Million and Ebookit. Follow Thomas on twitter at ThomasBarrJr., Instagram at MiamiUrbanChronicles and Marsocial.com/groups/urban-chronicles.
ST. MARY’S CITY, Md. – The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Baltimore Metropolitan Chapter, has presented Tuajuanda C. Jordan, president of St. Mary’s College of Maryland, with its Torchbearer Award. Jordan was honored during the coalition’s 25th annual Torchbearer Awards Breakfast held Sept. 27 at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Md.
Each year the coalition honors women who have distinguished themselves in the areas of health, education, economic development, cultural arts, or social and political action. This year’s honorees, recommended by the coalition’s membership, are women in education with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (S.T.E.M.).
“We want to recognize your efforts and the seriousness with which you pursued your vision,” said Mary Demory, awards chair, in a letter announcing Jordan as an honoree. “You are indeed a ‘Torchbearer’ and a distinguished advocate.”
This year’s Torchbearer Award honorees also included Shirley Malcolm, head of the education and human resources programs at the American Association for Advancement of Science; Stephanie Cole-Hill, executive at Lockheed Martin; and Dr. Charlene Dukes, first female president of Prince George’s Community College.
“I was humbled to be named an honoree, especially in light of the very distinguished women who were also honored,” said Jordan. “Shirley Malcom and I have been colleagues for many years, and I have always considered her a role model. Stephanie Hill should be recognized as a national, if not international, hero for the work she did in 2009 to neutralize a satellite hurling towards earth. And, the work Charlene Dukes has done at Prince George’s Community College, and will do as chair-elect of the American Association of Community Colleges, has far-reaching educational impact as we prepare the next generation of scientists who will represent the changing demographics of this country.”
Jordan took office as St. Mary’s College’s seventh president on July 1, 2014. Prior to St. Mary’s College, Jordan served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of chemistry at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Ore., beginning 2011. From 2005 to 2011, Jordan was the director of the Science Education Alliance (SEA) of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute in Chevy Chase, Md. As director, Jordan led a collaborative effort designed to have scientists and educators work together to enhance science literacy while preparing the next generation of scientists. She also headlined the National Genomics Research Initiative in 2008, a program that exposes first-year college students to hands-on genomics research.
Jordan’s honors include being named a Purdue University Distinguished Alumni from the School of Agriculture in 2008, and, in 2009, being named a “revolutionary mind” by Seed magazine.
The National Coalition of 100 Black Women is an advocacy organization founded in 1981 with a focus on furthering equity and empowerment for women of color. The organization has approximately 5,700 members in chapters in 24 states.
FALL SEASON HAS STARTED! DON’T MISS>>>> GEICO 500 WEEKEND, FOOTBALL and MAGIC CITY CLASSIC WEEKEND in October! What are you doing this season? ENJOY THIS WEEKEND, the weather and the happenings around the southeast! CELEBRATE BREAST CANCER MONTH! CELEBRATE HISPANIC MONTH!! HAVE A GOOD TIME! LAUGH A LITTLE!!
TODAY…What every one has been waiting for…… THURSDAY NITES COMEDY OPEN MIC NITE – ‘It’s Time to Laugh’ at the New Open Mic Thursday Nite Comedy hosted by CHARLES WINSTON at the ‘New’ Tide and Tiger, 409 Graymont Avenue. Doors open at 6, Showtime is 7 p.m. starting October 2. This is Comedy for the Grown & Sexy with great drinks and great food. ALL COMEDIANS ARE INVITED… and anyone that can tell jokes!! Call (205) 862-4723 for more.
BOOK – CARTER LEARNS ABOUT HIV – DR. K’s BOOK RELEASE PARTY – Dr. K Author, Radio Host, Doctor of Nursing Practice is hosting a book release/book signing on Wednesday, October 8th, 5:30 p.m., at the Barnes and Nobles 201 Summit Blvd (at THE SUMMIT). This one is definitely a MUST-READ! (Looking forward to sharing more of it with you.) EAT DRINK READ WRITE – Birmingham Public Library’s most popular event is back! The Eat Drink Read Write Festival will be held from October 3rd to 10th, and will feature the area’s best food and beverage offerings served up with a literary twist. Poetry paired with craft beer and soul food, an evening of storytelling and latte art, a cocktail contest with a Jazz Age literary theme–these are just some of the delectable delights in store. There’s a reason Birmingham is known as a foodie town, and we want to show our residents and visitors why we’re constantly heralded as a culinary destination.
WHISKEY SHIVERS AT BOTTLETREE CAFÉ – A diverse group of players hailing from Kentucky, Oregon, Texas, and upstate NY, the Austin-based string band Whiskey Shivers stands out like a sore thumb from their peers in the traditional worlds of bluegrass and Americana music with a genre-pushing sound that Rolling Stone said combines “the fierce inertia of Old Crow Medicine Show, the ramshackle folk punch of Felice Brothers and the punk energy of a pre-sobriety Deer Tick.” Whiskey Shivers are touring in support of their new self-titled LP released just last week (produced by Robert Ellis), which also earned praise from NPR Music, Paste, CMT Edge and others.
BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART FIRST THURSDAY – During October’s First Thursday the Birmingham Museum of Art will welcome new Curator of Modern and contemporary Art, Wassan Al-Khudhairi. Hear her first lecture at 7 p.m. Then, the rest of October …October 8, 7:30 p.m. is the 17th Annual Rushton Concert with Italian pianist Beatrice Rana. October 17, 5:30 p.m. GANDHI JAYABBTI & BMA SPEAKS – During the celebration of Gandhi’s birthday, we will welcome Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Vijay Seshadri, 8 p.m.
October 19, 2:30 p.m. DECODING BLACK ART with Kelli Morgan, Ph.D. candidate and Ford Fellow in Residence, if you are interested in African American Art. WHAT’S GOING ON AT RUFFNER – WINE AND CHEESE HIKE, Join people that love to hike and enjoy themselves with a little cheese and wine Saturday, 5 – 8 p.m. at the Ruffner Park. See you there! WELL FARGO BOO AT THE ZOO – Birmingham Zoo guests are invited to wear their favorite family-friendly costumes and watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions, trick-or-treating, themed rides and games for 16 nights at Wells Fargo Boo at the Zoo, starting this weekend and every weekend this month. The Presenting Partner of this event is Wells Fargo. This year, guests can experience the thrill of the all-new Monster Slide. Fun for all ages, guests will glide past their friends and family on this exhilarating inner tube ride of over 100 feet! The Zoo will also host a Creepy Carnival with themed games, a hay-ride search for Sasquatch and a trick-or-treat lane, organized by local nonprofit organizations and child-centered businesses. Animal exhibits will be closed during Wells Fargo Boo at the Zoo. The Junior League of Birmingham Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo Barn will remain open throughout the evening for up-close and personal animal interactions. The Zoo will close at 4p.m. on each day of Wells Fargo Boo at the Zoo. Visit www.birminghamzoo.com for more.
DON’T FORGET FOOTBALL…… EACH AND EVERY WEEKEND! Next week… MILES COLLEGE (HOMECOMING) is going to be playing hard to win against CENTRAL STATE ENJOY THE WEEK…starting SUNDAY – Coronation Ball, 7 p.m. on campus; MONDAY – ‘90s Funfest, 12 – 1 p.m. in front of the Café, Foam Party 9p.m. – 12 a.m. at the campus tent; TUESDAY – Breast Cancer Walk, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at football field, Pep Rally/Powder Puff Game, 6:30 – 10 p.m. at the gym/football field; WEDNESDAY – Burial Service of Central State Mascot, 11 a.m. – noon, Questions and Slime, 12 -1 p.m. at the Café, Skate Party, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. at Morgan Skating Rink; THURSDAY – Alumni Luncheon 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., People’s Choice Awards, 7:30 – 10 p.m. at the Gym; FRIDAY – Campus Pride, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Café, Step Show, 7 – 10 p.m. at the Gym and SATURDAY – Homecoming Parade Set Up, 7 a.m., Start Time 9 a.m., Football Game, 4 p.m. at Sloan Alumni Stadium with Fireworks and Post Game Celebration. They are calling it RELIVING THE ‘90S. See you there!
FOR MUSIC LOVERS…. and the LOVE OF LAUGHTER…
aDON’T MISS…COMEDY FOR THE GROWN AND SEXY – It’s always time to laugh so see you tonight …AND EVERY THIRSDAY NIGHT…for Thursday Nite Comedy Open Mic hosted by CHARLES WINSTON. Doors open at 6 p.m. with 7 p.m. ShowTime at the Tide and Tiger Lounge, 409 Graymont Avenue. INVITING ALL COMEDIANS…or wannabes! Call (205) 862-4723 for more. THE GOOD THE BAD AND THE UGLY – MAGIC CITY CLASSIC WEEKEND – CLASSIC COMEDY SHOW – THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY starring Comedian DENO POSEY, Comedian GORDON QUINNEY,and Birmingham’s Funniest Comedian SIR WALT, October 23 at Crescendo. Doors open at 6 p.m., ShowTime is 8 p.m. and a buffet from 7 – 8 p.m. while it lasts. The After Party is with DJ Mac Taylor. COMEDIANS INTERESTED IN BEING DISCOVERED… AND SEEN….Email me at thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com and also gwenderu@yahoo.com.
THIS WEEKEND… Or coming soon….Don’t miss any of the LAUGHTER AT THE STARDOME COMEDY CLUB… this and every week.
TODAY, TONY TONE… has appeared on television shows like: NBC “Later”, HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, BET’s Comicview and he is featured on a DVD with Cedric The Entertainer entitled, “The Starting Line Up 1”. Tony dazzled the crowd to standing ovations at last year’s NCCA South Regional conferences and this year’s NCAA Nationals. HE has quickly taken the college scene by storm.
This weekend….Friday , Saturday and Sunday… DOMINIQUE…TOM JOYNER MORNING SHOW! What is there to know about DOminque? Well, if you’re interested in high-powered comedy, there is everything to know, From clubs across the country to Comedy Central’s hit “CHAPPELLE’s SHOW” she’s showing America what a comedienne is. A run on the highly successful Def Comedy Jam Tour and numerous television appearances including the fresh new “Comic Groove” on Comedy Central, the legendary “Showtime at the Apollo” and the controversial “Comic View” on Black Entertainment Television. MORE LAUGHTER, October 7-12 – MIDNIGHT SWINGER, October 14-19 – QUINN DAHLE, October 21-22 – ANJELAH JOHNSON, October 24-26 – NEPHEW TOMMY, October 28-30 and November 14-15 – RONNIE JORDAN, November 7-8 and November 14-15 – JAMES GREGORY, November 21-23 – LAVELL CRAWFORD, November 25-26 and 28-30 – JONATHAN SLOCUMB, November 20-21 – DUSTIN YBARRA, January 2-4 – GARY OWEN, and February 7 – MIRANDA SINGS. Tell Bruce that Gwen sent you!! Call (205) 444-0008 for more. Tell them Gwen sent you! TODAY…
**TROMBONE SHORTY AND THE ORLEANS AVENUE, October 2 at the Alys Stephens Center. **The STEVE ROBERTS QUARTET w/ASHLEY ROBERTS, 8:30 p.m. at Ona’s Music Room. Call (205) 320-7006 for more. FRIDAY… **MAGIC CITY SMOOTH JAZZ CONCERT at Chewacla State Park in Auburn, 6-9 p.m. The concert will take place in the grassy area near the upper pavilion, 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy. Call (334) 887-5621 for more. **RECESS FRIDAYS with music by TRANQUILITY, 5 – 8 p.m., at B.O.S.S. Ultra Bar and Lounge, 312-20th Street South. **THE CARL LEWIS MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA 9:30 p.m. at Ona’s Music Room. SATURDAY… **ONA WATSON & CHAMPAGNE w/J.C. CRUMB, 9:30 p.m. at Ona’s Music Room. ENJOY THE WEEKEND!! I WILL!! NOW…. a BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUT FOR SEPTEMBER and OCTOBER! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL CELEBRATING!! THIS MEANS YOU… ART BACON, BRETT MCBRAYER, SHERREL STEWART, SUZAN MATIAS BALLENTINE, SABREEN JAI, IVE BILLINGSLEY, CLARISSA LESTER KENTY, NICK SELLERS, ANTHONY BRIDGEFORTH, ALFRED BONNER, FREDDY RUBIO, ROLANDA HOLLIS, RICKEY POWELL, AUDRA BEAN WILLINGHAM, LEE WALKER, PJ SPRAGGINS, MADIE ADAMS, ! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL YOU BIRTHDAY BALLERS…MANY, MANY MORE HAPPY BIRTHDAYS!! ENJOY!! Get outdoors, laugh and enjoy the time with family and friends! Check out our ‘What’s Happening Travel and Tourism Guide’… whenever you can. 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)
NEW YORK — Tamar & Vince are back to take viewers on another wild ride through their chaotic and charmed life as a power couple, as season three of WE tv’s hit original series kicks off Thursday, October 23 at 10p.m. ET/PT.
After dropping her Grammy-nominated hit album “Love & War” last year, Tamar is feeling the stress and pressure now more than ever to prove she’s not a one-hit wonder. Striking while the iron is hot, Vince and Tamar hit the road for her first solo multi-city tour. Tamar wants to give her loyal Tamartians friends the best show possible and prove that she can hold her own as a headliner. On top of that, Vince, wearing his “manager” half of the “husban-ger” hat, is pushing Tamar to work on her follow-up album, which only adds to the chaos of life on the road. The power couple is also focused on expanding Tamar’s empire beyond the music industry; once the tour wraps, she’s off to co-host “The Real,” a daily daytime talk show. With Tamar “booked to capacity” in the career department and juggling the roles of wife and mother to toddler Logan, it’s just a matter of time before something – or someone – snaps.
In the premiere episode, Tamar & Vince, the stakes are higher than ever as Tamar prepares to kick-off of her tour in Miami. Tamar and Vince work hard to make every detail perfect, but problems emerge when questionable choreography sets off nerves and tempers. When Tamar’s performance of “Sounds of Making Love” gets too racy, jealously beings to rear its ugly head as it’s clear Vince does not approve. He quickly shuts her down when the subject comes up in public causing tension between the couple. Communication problems become a rapidly growing issue, and Tamar worries it will not only affect her work but also their marriage.
Visit www.wetv.com for sneak peeks, deleted scenes, photo galleries and blogs. You’ll also find the weekly behind-the-scenes scoop and exclusive videos. “Like” the Tamar & Vince page on Facebook and follow @WEtv on Instagram for the full insider experience.
Returning Atlanta ladies welcome newcomers Claudia Jordan and Demetria McKinney
NEW YORK – Bravo Media’s favorite Georgia Peaches return juicier than ever when season seven of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” premieres on Sunday, November 9 at 8p.m. ET/PT. Cynthia Bailey, Kandi Burruss, NeNe Leakes, Kenya Moore and Phaedra Parks are back this season, and joined by media maven Claudia Jordan as they foster new friendships and attempt to rebuild old ones. Also returning in a recurring role is Porsha Williams and newcomer Demetria McKinney.
Fresh off performing in Las Vegas as Cirque du Soleil’s mistress of ceremonies in “Zumanity,” NeNe has recently launched her own clothing line and will be heading to the Broadway stage to star in “Cinderella.” Recently married, Kandi attempts to build her expanded family with Todd, but faces unexpected road blocks along the way. Meanwhile, Kenya focuses on her producing career and can’t shake the thoughts that a baby is what is missing most from her life. Always on the go, Cynthia is now stronger than ever – both on the health front as well as with her marriage; the only thing missing is not having former BFF NeNe by her side. With Apollo facing years of incarceration, Phaedra shows incredible resilience while raising two young boys on her own and maintaining her successful career. Claudia Jordan is a TV and radio host who recently moved to Atlanta from Los Angeles. Working as co-host on the “Rickey Smiley Morning Show,” Claudia loves the social scene Atlanta has to offer and having her good friend Kenya Moore around. Recently single, Porsha is enjoying a fresh chapter in her life and joins “Dish Nation” as its Entertainment gossip contributor. Award winning actress and singer Demetria McKinney is also new to the mix and getting up to speed with these sassy Southern ladies. For a sneak peek of the series, visit http://www.bravotv.com/the-real-housewives-of-atlanta/season-7/videos/this-season-on-rhoa.
November will welcome scorching fierceness and sassy shade when “Fashion Queens” returns for a third season on Sunday, November 9 at 11:30p.m. ET/PT. Immediately following “Watch What Happens Live,” this topical, fashion-based talk show features two of Atlanta’s style elite, celebrity hairstylists Derek J and Miss Lawrence and New York’s fashion maven and media socialite Bevy Smith. This trendy opinionated trio will cover everything related to the world of fashion, from haute couture to celebrity style to unusual outfits from around the globe, giving their unique perspective on the trends, hits and misses. For a look back at some of the fabulous moments of season two, visit http://www.bravotv.com/fashion-queens/must-see-moments-from-season-2.
“The Real Housewives of Atlanta” is produced by True Entertainment with Steven Weinstock, Glenda Hersh, Lauren Eskelin, Carlos King and Lorraine Haughton serving as Executive Producers.
For more, visit www.BravoTV.com. Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BravoPR.
Panic Switch Army brand offers adrenaline-fueled apparel geared for men and women
SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. – With a successful clothing and merchandise line already to her credit, actress/Playboy Playmate CharisB has launched her much-anticipated, adrenaline-fueled clothing line, Panic Switch Army, aimed for both, men and women. Panic Switch Army launched at the beginning 2014 NASCAR season.
“NASCAR has always been a great brand with incredible fans and we’re very pleased to join with them and create a line of clothing that shows what NASCAR fans are about,” said CharisB, Playboy Magazine’s February 2003 Playboy Playmate.
“It’s not going (to be) your typical NASCAR style. We’re bringing a look that is a breath of fresh air to a very venerable brand for those who like to live an adrenaline-fueled lifestyle.”
Partnered with her husband Luke Burrett and NASCAR driver Kurt Busch, Charis aims to take the apparel market by storm with Panic Switch’s clothing and accessory line. Although some have tried in the past to capitalize on the auto racing theme and not succeeded, Charis and her partners believe in the viability of their stylish approach to clothing and other merchandise bearing the Panic Switch Army brand.
“Our colors and styles are meant to show that the wearer enjoys fast cars, high speed and the excitement of gasoline-fueled motor sports,” CharisB said.
“There is no other brand that says ‘I love NASCAR’ like Panic Switch does. We show it in a stylish and fashionable way and not in a campy or outdated way.”
With racing jackets that show stripes, logos and color patterns that resemble those of NASCAR race car drivers, and stylish hoodies that bear the Panic Switch Army logo, the company is already getting support from fans flocking to its new Web site, www.PanicSwitchArmy.com.
They also have signature t-shirts from such as drivers as Kurt Busch, Tony Stewart, Brad Koszlowsky, as well as Bill Goldberg and other sponsored athletes.
Panic Switch Army is also the exclusive trackside seller of Monster Energy products.
“People are responding to the brand but also to the love and respect we have for NASCAR and the excitement it represents,” said Luke Burrett, Panic Switch Army CEO.
The clothing and accessory line includes men’s tees, hoodies, jackets, knitted hats, baseball hats as well as the exclusive Panic Switch Army Kurt Busch Signature Outlaw Racing Helmet. For women, Panic Switch offers t-shirts, tank tops, dresses, hoodies, of various prints and styles.
Panic Switch Army is also the exclusive distributor of CharisB’s signature line of t-shirts, tops, posters and accessories for men and women.
“Working together with Luke and Charis has been great. Helping come up with designs and a West Coast theme for the outlaw-branded signature T-shirts and apparel with their talented artists has made this a very exciting and creative experience,” Busch said.
Having built the highly successful mixed martial arts apparel and lifestyle brand Silver Star Casting Company into a global phenomenon a few years ago, CharisB and Luke Burrett are on their way to building yet another powerful brand with wide appeal. Already, they have plans to attend a number of NASCAR races to promote the new Panic Switch Army products and NASCAR.
A Playboy Playmate and model, CharisB has continued her work with Playboy as a host of its radio show “The Panic Switch,” and a model for numerous brands and magazines. She remains busy as an actress and TV personality on such television shows as “MMA Heat,” “The Two Coreys,” “UFC 47: It’s On!” and others. But her passion for work and family will keep her busy this year as she prepares for work on a TV pilot and a role on an upcoming film.
“I’m very thankful to have these wonderful opportunities and also to Luke and Kurt Busch for their tireless work and their incredible support,” CharisB said.
“I’m truly looking forward to traveling across the country to meet NASCAR fans and promote our brand and NASCAR. It’s going to be fun!”
Visit www.PanicSwitchArmy.com.
Featuring the hidden collection of internationally known artist
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) will present “Artistic Perseverance,” featuring the hidden collection of internationally known artist Steve A. Skipper from October 14- December 31, in BCRI’s Odessa Woolfolk Gallery. An opening reception for the exhibition will take place on October 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the BCRI rotunda. The reception is free and open to the public. Call 328-9696 x 234 for more information.
Skipper, who is well-known internationally for his officially licensed, college and professional sports-themed oil paintings, will display his “hidden collection” of art that has never been publicly displayed before. “The work reflects the value of perseverance,” noted Skipper. “They were done during a personally difficult time in my life when I didn’t want to paint. But God guided my hand and heart at a pace that I personally was not able to, and I found my will to paint again.” Skipper will also unveil “Perfect Peace,” an original oil painting in memory of the late Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth. Upon viewing the painting, Alby Headrick, Skipper’s photographer for six years now, remarked that, “Perfect Peace…is the best painting I have ever seen Steve Skipper do.”
“Although BCRI has several of Steve’s paintings on display throughout the building, this will be Steve’s first solo exhibition here,” stated Ahmad Ward, BCRI Head of Education and Exhibitions. “And the fact that this special collection has not been previously exhibited before makes it a must see show,” he added.
Over the years Skipper has won numerous awards for his art and has sold his paintings world-wide. Skipper has donated several of his paintings to BCRI, including a reproduction of the commemorative painting that was commissioned by the City of Birmingham for its celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Movement in 2013. Skipper is also the Founder and CEO of Anointed Homes Art.
Dee-1 is blazing a trail in Hip Hop music with his positive message. Dee-1, who is a native from New Orleans, is performing on the BET College Tour and promoting his first single titled “Against Us.”
After his show at Alabama A & M University’s Homecoming he travelled to Birmingham to do an exclusive interview with the Birmingham Times and discussed his style of lyrics in positive Hip Hop Music.
Dee- 1 states he is excited at this point in his career. This is an opportunity for the community to support someone positive in Hip Hop to balance off the negative especially in Hip Hop.
“My music is positive without profanity and gimmicks. My lyrics deal with subject matters that need to be addressed. My album will drop January 2015 entitled, “Catch Me If I Fall”, states DEE-1. The album’s title is a means I need my fans iron to sharpen my iron so in my music I can uplift the people and make them feel good about themselves and be motivated. My lifestyle is Mission driven – Keep God First, use your talents and skills to make a better life for you and your loved ones. My motto is three fingers up – Be Real, Be Righteous, Be Relevant, in everything you do. I love Alabama and Thank you for your support.
Glen Burke’s debut novel, Jesse (Koehler Books), is definitely a distinctive read. Clearly, this fictional work paints a graphic picture of the South. Likewise this is as it should be during the segregated sixties. However, intertwined within the bitter racisms that were considered the standard of that era, are also tales of abuse, alcoholism, rape and numerous other societal enigmas that many upstanding families chose to keep behind closed doors.
The story setting takes place in a small rural Alabama town. A little boy named Jessup Christopher Savorie aka Jesse, is the central character. Because he is of mixed race, he is often the object of many beatings, be they physical and/or emotional. Unfortunately for him, this is one of today’s norms if you are considered part of the Black ethnicity attending an all-white school. All the same, Jesse is special in so many ways and this puzzles the people that know him.
Although Jesse is poor and has no relatives, he is blessed far more than the town’s richest citizen. This comes by way of his innate ability. Not only was he was born with a gift that gives him exceptional physical dexterity but he has supernatural powers that let him see into a person’s soul in order that this person may be saved through him. Jesse also possesses a loving demeanor that allows him to treat all people, Black and white, the same no matter what they do to him. This proves to be quite shocking for the good town folks and they are in for a number of surprises. Jesse Glen Alan Burke is proven to be quite the storyteller.
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Ridge makes his case to Eric of why he would be the better choice to take over as CEO of Forrester Creations than Rick. In return, Eric explains to Ridge his vision of how the company should be run and why. Feeling immense guilt, Caroline contemplates telling Ivy about the kiss she shared with Ridge. Rick compares Caroline and himself to Eric and Stephanie when he envisions taking over the family business.
Ridge encourages a flustered Caroline to not fight her feelings for him and to not settle for a life with Rick. Caroline refuses to put her marriage on the line by continuing to work on the collection with Ridge. Aly questions Hope’s reasoning for remaining in her marriage to Wyatt after learning that she is pregnant. Feeling the need to move on from Hope, Liam asks Ivy out on another date. Hope and Liam come face-to-face for the first time since she chose Wyatt over him. Quinn shows up unannounced for a visit with Wyatt and attempts to convince her son into allowing her into his family’s world. Wyatt puts Quinn in her place about the new order of priorities in his life. Hope and Liam share an emotional moment as they discuss her marriage and pregnancy. Hope is less than thrilled to come home to Quinn being in her house asking for forgiveness. Over a candlelight dinner, Liam and Ivy toast to embarking on a new romantic relationship together. Ivy presents Liam with a symbolic token to mark a new chapter of his life. Quinn pleads her case to Hope about deserving a second chance to be a part of her grandchild’s life. Wyatt is a man in the middle when Quinn asks Hope to settle their differences once and for all. Quinn implores Deacon to assist her with getting through to Hope. Hope makes it clear to Wyatt that she does not want Quinn to have any part in their or their child’s lives. When confronted about her odd behavior, Caroline confides in Ivy about the kiss that she shared with Ridge during one of their designing sessions.
THIS WEEK: Katie has a warning for Ridge when he divulges his plan to gain the CEO position. Deacon and Quinn discuss where their relationship is headed and how to break the news to Hope.
DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Stefano has a mysterious request for Kristen. Chad and Kate are thrown a curveball as they plot to take down EJ and Stefano. Marlena gets shocking news from Roman. Rafe and Abe deal with a difficult case. Sami is hit hard by an unexpected delivery. Brady can’t help but bond with Kristen. Eric confronts Daniel about his connection with Kristen. Abigail struggles with conflicting emotions. Kate fears she and Sami could be in serious trouble. Theresa asks Brady if they can start over. Eric makes a surprising admission to Kristen. Jordan spies Chad in a vulnerable moment. Sami finally gets answers – but they are not what she expected. Clyde continues to court Kate. Ciara has a huge reaction when she learns about the changes in Hope’s love life. Aiden gets testy when Maggie asks too many questions about his life before Salem. Kate has a shocking warning for Sami. Paige tells JJ she’s ready for them to make love – but she doesn’t quite get the response she was expecting. Julie is blown away when she hears about Hope’s new relationship.
THIS WEEK: Eve flirts with Eric. Paige is confused and upset.
GENERAL HOSPITAL
At their meeting in Amsterdam, Patrick, Sam and Tracy are suddenly taken aback. Elizabeth starts to open up more to John Doe, and in the interim, makes a revelation about him. Silas discusses Nina’s progress with her physical therapist (Travis.) An awkward reunion makes Obrecht question this person’s true motive. Nathan and Maxie are reminded of the consequences if the two are caught around one another. Elizabeth continues to wonder if there is more to John Doe than there appears. Ignoring Sam and Patrick’s advice, Tracy decides to put everything on the line. Silas corners Nina about her recent activities. As Britt prepares to take her relationship with Nikolas to the next level, Brad warns what might happen if Nikolas ever finds out the truth about her deception. Franco involuntarily makes a declaration about Nina to Silas, while Sonny calls Shawn to move forward on their plans to destroy Franco. Nina warns Rosalie that she will reveal her secret if she does not help her with her next scheme. Jordan visits John Doe to see what he remembers about the night of the crash. Ava experiences terrible pregnancy pains and refuses to seek help out of fear of losing her life. Morgan and Kiki strategize on how to get Ava help while keeping her safe. Nina lashes out at Silas for all that has happened to her the past 20 years. In the interim, Nathan learns some overwhelming news about Nina and rushes to find her. Sabrina expresses her doubts to Felix that Ava caused her accident and comes clean about what she did with Ava’s pills. Michael is thrown with Franco’s request. Bobbie questions Carly if she wants to go through with the wedding. Franco continues to build the blocks for his overall master plan and seeks help from an unlikely source. Meanwhile, Sonny fine tunes his ploy against Franco by setting up a fall guy. Nina decides an improbable person may be of use to her in order to carry out her plot of revenge. Sabrina attempts to make her wrong right.
THIS WEEK: Silas informs both Kiki and Nathan about his run-in with Nina. Morgan puts Ava at ease.
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Jack Abbott’s world is rocked! Victor receives the results of Faith’s paternity test and tries to call Nick, but the phone goes to voicemail. Nick confides in Avery that he is worried that all the progress Sharon has made is slipping away. Victor returns home and Nikki isn’t there. He pours himself a drink and notices that the bottle of vodka is moved and appears emptier than before. Mariah arrives and confronts Victor about Sharon’s secret. Abby shows up at Victoria’s office hoping to hear that she and Billy have gotten back together. Abby believes that everything would be different had Delia not been killed. Victoria argues that her problems with Billy started way before Delia’s death. Stitch arrives and informs Victoria that he is getting a lawyer to protect his rights if he turns out to be the baby’s father. As he begins to leave, Victoria impulsively pulls him into a kiss. Meanwhile, Chelsea is frustrated that Billy can’t seem to handle the fact that she was married to Adam. She realizes that a piece of Billy is missing with Delia gone, and that is all Adam’s fault. Chelsea believes that Billy is using Adam as an excuse to end things with her because he is still hung up on Victoria. Meanwhile, Traci, Abby, Ashley, and Jack worry about where Billy might be, as they don’t want him to be alone on the anniversary of Delia’s death. Later, Victoria surprises Billy with an essay Delia wrote. Billy and Victoria get emotional as they read it and end up in each other’s arms. At Chancellor Park, Esther and Jill cry together, thinking about Delia. Devon shows up at Hilary’s hotel room and says that he loves her and asks if she still loves him. She answers him with a kiss as they move towards the bed. Joe Clark asks Cane for help with a real estate deal and for a lawyer recommendation.
THIS WEEK: Joe tells someone on the phone he is getting ready to make a move on the properties with Crimson Lights being one of them. Devon wants to stop lying to Neil, but Hilary says it would devastate him.
