By Gwen DeRu

FALL SEASON HAS STARTED!
What are you doing this season?

ENJOY THIS WEEKEND and the happenings around the southeast!

HAVE A GOOD TIME!  LAUGH A LITTLE!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADIE ADAMS!!

COMING SOON!!!! THURSDAY NITE 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 4, 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.

BRIGHT HOUSE NETWORKS GRAND OPENING – Bright House Networks has opened a new state-of-the-art sales and service center in Birmingham at 1680 Montevallo Road, Suite 1000 Birmingham, AL 35210. The company held a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony at the new location with Birmingham Mayor William Bell recently.  In an effort to better serve customers in the Birmingham community, customers can exchange equipment, add new services, and pay their bill at the new facility.  Bright House Networks will also maintain its corporate office and payment center located at 151 London Parkway Birmingham, AL 35211, and customers will now have two locations to make bill payments. Bright House Networks sales and service facility at 6429 First Avenue South, which has been the “hub” of cable services for the metro Birmingham community for four decades, has closed its doors permanently.
CALLING ALL BLACK MEN – YOU ARE INVITED!!!  Foot Soldier Washington Booker is saying that it is time for Black men to assume responsibility for the condition of their community.  He is hosting an event for men, TODAY at the Historic Carver Theater at 6 p.m.  The Civil Rights Activist Committee will present former Birmingham Mayor Dr. Richard Arrington, Retired Federal Judge UW Clemons and one of the first paid national staff members of the SCLC, Mr. Andrew Marrisett as panelists at the event entitled “Conversations Among Brothers.” The two-hour discussion will explore issues negatively impacting the Black Community in Birmingham. There is no admission charge and all brothers are encouraged to participate.  “I believe that God holds Men responsible for the condition of their people,” says Washington Booker, Co-Chair of the Civil Rights Activist Committee, nonprofit organization comprised of the Birmingham Foot Soldiers (the children who marched, survived attacks by dogs and the sting of water hoses and even jail during the Civil Rights Movement in 1963). “Our goal for a conversation among a Brothers discussion is to actively involve Black men in a search for solutions to the social and economic problems facing our community.”
38th ORIGINAL OKTOBERFEST – The Oktoberfest will have authentic German cuisine, today through Saturday from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Thursday) 9 p.m. (Friday and Saturday) with Stammtisch dinner 5-8 p.m.; Friday – 5 p.m. Keg Tap Opening Ceremony and Saturday – 2:30 p.m. UAB vs. Alabama A&M game on the screen in the Beer Hall with a 3 p.m. beer tasting, 4 p.m. Dachshund Parade and 5 p.m., Bama vs. Southern Miss game on the screen.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS WORKSHOP – Congresswoman Terri Sewell joins Operation HOPE Jr. to co-host “Are You READY” a disaster preparedness workshop, Friday, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the Sixth Avenue Baptist Church, 1101 Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr.  The event will target community leaders, pastors and individuals with a vested interest in disaster preparedness plan. The goal is to widen awareness of financial disaster preparedness and to assist with a community disaster preparedness plan. FREE!
EMPOWERMENT WEEK – The Birmingham Public Library will present a panel discussion on race, redemption and reconciliation on Friday at noon in the Arrington Auditorium as part of the city’s Empowerment Week. The event is free and open to the public.  The speakers will be Chervis Isom and Nick Patterson, authors of recent books that examine Birmingham during the civil rights movement. Though one author is white and the other is Black, the men’s stories carry similar messages of change and moving forward. Isom once held racist views as a child growing up in a segregated Birmingham in the 1950s and 1960s. But his opinions eventually changed when a married couple on his newspaper route taught him that it’s wrong to judge people based on skin color. He shares his coming-of-age story in “The Newspaper Boy.”  Patterson had always felt that stories of the movement’s foot soldiers were ones of struggle and perseverance that needed to live on for generations to share. Through research and extensive interviews, he delved deep into the past to tell their stories in his book “Birmingham Foot Soldiers: Voices from the Civil Rights Movement.” Learn about the city’s past and how it prepares people for the future. Isom, an attorney, and Patterson, a writer, will sign copies of their books after the discussion and Q&A session. The library’s address is 2100 Park Place.  Birmingham’s Empowerment Week, set for Sept. 11-15, will include a day of service, speakers and festivals.
EHS ALUMNI PEP RALLY – The EHS Pep Rally is Friday, 8 p.m. at the Merienda Lounge.  A lot of you have been asking … The EHS alumni picnic weekend is ready to roll as well as the Annual Pep Rally!! This year they have added an extra element to make sure your social experience is EPIC!! The doors will open at 8 p.m. sharp with live entertainment from precision featuring Sherri B. The band starts at 9 p.m. so early arrival is a must!!! After the live entertainment, Ensley’s on Vegas ‘Dirty Vegas Benson’ will take the party to another level!!! Contact Gregory Ramsey, Ty King, or Rod Moore at (205) 215-9905, or 639-8168.  Spread the word. The Yellow Jackets are ready to roll.  The sting will never die!!!!!!
RIDE UNITED BIRMINGHAM – The Ride United event is Saturday, 8 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. at Kelly Ingram Park.  Let’s Ride UNITED Birmingham with family and friends pass many of Birmingham’s Civil Rights sites. There will also be a special 5 miles route for families and kids at RideUnited Birmingham. The Kids Ride will go through the treelined streets of downtown Birmingham past many of the historic Civil Rights sites. Kids get a fun ride and a powerful educational opportunity.  Register and spread the word about this exciting, fun and educational community ride along the Birmingham Civil Rights Trail on the Red Rock Trails Systems.  Go to rideunitedbirmingham.org for more.
14th AVENUE MUSIC FEST – The 14th Avenue Music Fest will feature TIM BOYKIN-MICHAEL CANNON, JUBAL DALZELL,MARIAN MCKAY, ALLE PARK, KEN RANDOLPH, BEN TREXEL-BERNIE WHITE, 3 LINE PLAY MASTER’S CABERET featuring DIANE McNARON and CHERYL SIMONETTI., 11 a,m, Saturday at 1823 14th Avenue South.  All proceeds support ADAC Community Counseling’s Services and their work in Southside and the Birmingham Area.
TRUCKS BY THE TRACKS – This is the Third Annual Trucks by the Tracks, Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Railroad Park 1600 First Avenue So. with over 20 food trucks and carts, plenty of free musical performances by local artists that include BAREFOOT MOSES, THE GLASS JARS, AMACO FAVOR, THE ALL- STAR STRANGLERS and more.
FOR MUSIC LOVERS…. and the LOVE OF LAUGHTER…
DON’T MISS…COMEDY FOR THE GROWN AND SEXY – It’s always time to laugh so SAVE THE DATE – October 2 for Thursday Nite Comedy Open Mic hosted by CHARLES WINSTON. Doors open at 4 p.m. with 7 p.m. ShowTime at the Tide and Tiger Lounge, 409 Graymont Avenue.  INVITING ALL COMEDIANS!  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 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. This FRIDAY… “Girl on Girl Comedy and Revue”, a comedy series featuring the best regional female and GLBT comedians and performers, will be at the StarDome Comedy Club.
Performers scheduled to appear include: Red Squirrel, Comedienne Carla Youngblood, Christy Eidson and Jessica Carter from Nashville, plus other special guests.  It’s Sex in the City meets Lisa Lampanelli, Kathy Griffin, Chelsea Handler, and Margaret Cho!  It’s primarily all female performers, so males be forewarned! Weak stomachs and the faint of heart need not apply. This is an all-inclusive show and all are welcome. Warning: the first few rows might get wet! All shows are Rated R! Show starts at 7:30 p.m., so get there early.
MORE LAUGHTER… September 16 – MARY LYNN RAJSKUB (ONE NIGHT ONLY), September 18-21 – APRIL MACIE, CINDY KAZA – September 20, September 26-28 – SOMMORE, October 3-5 – GARY OWEN, October 7-12 – MIDNIGHT SWINGER, October 14-19 – QUINN DAHLE, ANJELAH JOHNSON – October 21 -22, and NEPHEW TOMMY – October 24-26.  Tell Bruce that Gwen sent you!!  Call (205) 444-0008 for more.  Tell them Gwen sent you!
TODAY…
**The STEVE ROBERTS QUARTET w/ASHLEY ROBERTS, 8:30 p.m. at Ona’s Music Room. Call (205) 320-7006 for more.
FRIDAY…
**DUQUETTE JOHNSON LIVE! at the Alys Stephens Center, 7 p.m. with a 17 piece ensemble playing songs from Rabbit Runs A Destiny and ARMAND MARGJEKA opening the show.
**RECESS FRIDAYS with music by TRANQUILITY, 5 – 8 p.m., at B.O.S.S. Ultra Bar and Lounge, 312-20th Street South.
**STEVE MCCULLOUGH TRIO. 9:30 p.m. at Ona’s Music Room.
SATURDAY…
**MADDIE ADAMS BIRTHDAY PARTY –  Stop by the NEW TIDE AND TIGER on Graymont Avenue across from Legion Field stadium where the grown folk hang out.  Tell them Gwen sent you.
**FIGHT PARTY, 7 p.m. at the Echo Lounge (one block behind Applebees in Five Points West). Check out the fight between Mayweather and Maidana and Comedy Relief with Comedian Detroit Reid.  Call (205) 240-6309 for more.
**ONA WATSON & CHAMPAGNE w/J.C. CRUMB, 9:30 p.m. at Ona’s Music Room.
**FALL CLASSIC UAB vs Bulldogs After Party at the Wineloft on First Avenue North, 9:30 – 2 a.m.
ENJOY THE WEEKEND!!     I WILL!!
NOW…. a BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUT FOR SEPTEMBER! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL CELEBRATING!!  THIS MEANS YOU! 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)
Gwen Deru, Vice President
The Lewis Group
(205) 251-1666
thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com

by Jessica Jones
Kandi Burruss’ life-based musical “A Mother’s Love” will be showing Sep. 14 at the BJCC Concert Hall. Before the play’s production in Birmingham, Travis Steele, founder and CEO of Theatrical Works Live, and the director of the musical talks about his partnership with Burruss and her husband Todd Tucker, and his passion for their vision.

“A Mother’s Love” will be showing in Birmingham soon, so tell me about why you decided to take on the play.
For one it was interesting how it came about. My wife brought it to me. Of course we’re both big fans of the Real Housewives of Atlanta. She said we might want to talk to Kandi about this play. It seems to be real nice. It received excellent reviews in Atlanta. We set up a meeting with Kandi and her manager Don Juan and it came about and after speaking with her and seeing her vision for it I was really sold that, yes, this is really a good move.

This play will be in 29 different cities. How did you choose the venues and cities for the play?
What we did was we based it on the past history of what markets were receptive to it, but I think with this one we had our work cut out for us because maybe we could get Birmingham this day and maybe not Huntsville another day. As far as choosing the venues we were able to check numbers and see where they performed well.

This is a very large production. What does a play of this caliber require of you?
From my end of things the first challenge is getting the buildings. When you have artists, a lot of times they want to see those cities like Atlanta or Los Angeles or New York in the tour route. So the first thing is getting the proper buildings that Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker are pleased with. Then once you’ve presented them with the routing, actually putting the production in play. The entire squad is in rehearsals right now so we have a team that is our production manager and they tackle the day-to-day work of dealing with the cast and running the rehearsals.

Tell me about your business relationship with Kandi Burruss and what she’s brought to this production that you’re grateful for.
One of the things that I think everyone involved in the production is excited about is her brand and how big she is. Not only how big she is as far as the brand, the company, the various businesses she has, it makes it easier to go to, whether it’s a Black market or a white market, or a military market and say Kandi Burruss. They know this artist. She’s somebody who is in their homes. A lot of women and men relate to her and relate to her struggles. Away from the brand, what I like the most is she’s down to earth. If she likes something she’ll voice it, if she doesn’t she’ll voice it, but she’s easy to get along with. She’s not into the superstar stuff that can come with [working with] an artist. That’s one of the biggest assets to the production.

This is being marketed as a family-friendly play. What is so important to you about providing wholesome entertainment?
I think that one of the things that you see not only in the Black community but, you’ll see this at rock concerts, hip hop and maybe R&B, you don’t see a lot of shows you can go to with your kids. I have three daughters at the ages of 10, 7, and 5, and they’ll be at the opening night of this. They are fans of Kandi. They enjoy the Housewives, and they’re excited about it and I’m actually excited that it’s a storyline and the script is actually family oriented and I can sit with my daughters through the show. All too often we can do that physically when we go to the movies, we can choose a movie, but with live entertainment it’s usually something real, real kiddy like Disney on Ice or it’s an adult show and you have to leave the kids behind. It’s not too often that we can go into the theater and see something that I actually love.

You’ve mentioned that you want to present plays that the reach the audience in a relatable way. How do you think the audience will relate to A Mother’s Love?
This year marks the 10th year that I’ve been married and I know Kandi and Todd are working on their first year. [The play] kind of hit me across the face because it was like, ‘man, we kind of went through the same thing.’ My wife is an only child and until the wedding day, her mom and I had that resistance, probably not to the extent of Todd and Momma Joyce, but we had our little situation. So when I saw the show we were able to laugh at ourselves and say, ‘remember 10 years ago, your mom said this’. We can relate to it in our own little way. Then you get into the family. Everyone has something to say and it might not just be the father and the son-in-law or the daughter–in-law and the mother. You get the family members into it. In that case it’s very relatable to people. Everybody goes through something like that. You don’t even have to be married. You can be boyfriend and girlfriend. So people can relate to that challenge.

If you had to sum up the play in a few short sentences or say what about the play will resonate with the audience, what would you say?
For me, and everyone views things differently, I think it’s overcoming challenges, regardless of what the challenge is. When I looked at it, I thought about it myself; what are my own personal challenges? From the music industry being really fast and booming in the early 2000s, then everything started closing down. You know you have your family who tell you ‘maybe you don’t want to do this anymore’. So overcoming challenges is what I would say [the play is about], whether it’s in a relationship, a business or a dream. I think Kandi did a good job of putting that in the script. I think she exemplified that well. Anybody can apply [the moral of this play] to their lives. It might not be musical. They might be going through it at their job in corporate America and feel like they can’t get ahead because of their boss.  Everyone knew what Todd, Kandi and Momma Joyce went through, but they’re still working together to overcome challenges. It’s a constant thing and that’s how life is.

Cast includes Golden Brooks, Countess Vaughn, Lisa Wu, Paula Jai Parker and Elise Neal

SILVER SPRING, Md. –  TV One expands Wednesday night programming with the all-new docu-series Hollywood Divas on Wednesday, October 8th at 10p.m./ET.
In Hollywood, it’s not called “show friends” – it’s “show biz” and actresses Golden Brooks (Girlfriends), Countess Vaughn (The Parkers), Lisa Wu (Real Housewives of Atlanta), Paula Jai Parker (Hustle and Flow) and Elise Neal (The Hughleys) show us just how unkind Hollywood can be. Whether it’s being blackballed for marrying a powerful director’s production assistant or hating the way you look because you were once told that you’re overweight and undesirable as a child star, there’s nothing friendly about these ladies’ journeys in Hollywood.
“Just when you think that there’s nothing new under the sun with female ensemble reality shows, a cast comes along that is unlike any on TV,” said D’Angela Proctor, SVP of Programming and Production. “These women are baring it all and showing a vulnerable side of themselves that we’ve never seen.”
With such a strong cast, TV One tapped The Real Housewives of Atlanta showrunner, Carlos King, along with Todd Tucker, to executive produce.
“Get the popcorn ready and enjoy this treat because Hollywood Divas is going to change the way the world views Black women on reality television,” said King, Executive Producer. “These divas are fierce, fabulous and ferocious when it comes to their craft and the world will be stunned when they realize what it takes to be a Black actress in Hollywood. Let the games begin.”
Throughout the 10 episode series, we’ll see just how challenging it is to break out from the pack and carve a new path in Hollywood.
Golden Brooks, who, after co-starring on a long running series, has been hit with the reality that the game has changed. As a classically trained actress, Golden feels that reality stars do not take the craft seriously and are stealing roles from real actresses, such as herself.
Countess Vaughn has struggled with image and self-esteem issues for years and believes that her physical appearance has limited the type of parts she lands. In an attempt to revitalize her career, she turns to extreme cosmetic surgery in hopes that with a new body, the roles will soon follow.
Paula Jai Parker believes that she was shunned from Hollywood after marrying a production assistant she met on-set thereby resulting in her going from being a gainfully employed actress to homelessness. Paula, now the primary breadwinner of the family, must start from scratch in order to turn her professional life around and support her family.
Lisa Wu is in a constant battle to get the world to recognize her as more than just a former cast member of a hugely successful reality show franchise and the ex-wife of singer/songwriter Keith Sweat and retired NFL player Ed Hartwell. Having landed small roles and produced several stage plays and films, Wu still struggles to earn respect.
Elise Neal has learned that sometimes you have to forge your own way in Hollywood and in doing so, you might not make many friends along the way. Nearing 50 with looks that rival most 20 year-olds, Elise reignites her sexy dance troop to show the world that she is a triple threat.

OKINAWA, Japan – The Queen of Clean is back in the Magic City after spreading some JOY for the troops and American Civil Employees in Okinawa, Japan. Comedienne JOY performed last Thursday at the Wired Bean. It is a venue that is supported by the chapel which is geared to make airmen at Kadena Air Force Base feel like they have a home away from home. “I was overwhelmed with excitement when they asked me to perform. It was my way to say thank you to the service men and women and to bring them some JOY even if it was for 30 minutes,” says Comedienne JOY.
After the performance she was also coined twice. The Wired Bean presented her a military coin. Also, the highest ranking Command Sergeant Major at Torii Station presented JOY with an U.S. Army Garrison Coin. The term “coin” is a military tradition for a job well done. “I was very shocked to receive one of the coins as the Command Sergeant Major presented in a chicken bag which was one of the things I made reference to in my comedy act. It was an honor and to see high ranking officials also have a sense of humor!” says JOY. She also autographed free DVDs for service men and women. The coordinator also spoke to JOY about returning and performing at more military bases in Japan.
While in the country, Comedienne JOY also had an opportunity to learn more about Japanese customs and traditions by trying on their formal wear called Kimonos and touring historical
sites.

By MARK KENNEDY

NEW YORK (AP) — Marvel Entertainment, which muscled into pop culture with comic books, TV cartoons and movies, is gambling on attracting new fans as it tackles 3-D — but forget the silly glasses.
A new live arena show called “Marvel Universe Live!” — a first for the comic franchise — has begun an 85-city tour over the next two years, flooding stages with a dizzying array of actors and upping the technological ante for theatrical events.
“We pushed ourselves so much on this project to do things that have never been done before,” said producer Juliette Feld, who is a Feld Entertainment executive vice president. “This show is actually more like an action movie than anything else.”
Captain America, Thor, The Hulk, Black Widow, Wolverine, Nick Fury, Spider-Man, Storm, Green Goblin and Red Skull are among the heroes and villains that constantly battle during the two-hour show.
The show leverages many of the elements that Feld Entertainment has pioneered, including its motocross show Nuclear Cowboyz and monster truck spectacular Monster Jam, and even Disney on Ice and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
There’s projection mapping, LED screens, aerial stunts, massive set pieces that emerge from the ceiling, motorcycle stunts, pyrotechnics, real fire, martial arts, smoke and lasers.
“We’re performing movie stunts in a live setting,” said J. Vaught, Feld’s vice president of ice and stage operations and creative development. “It’s not CGI. Gravity’s real. Solid objects are really solid.”
The show, which fills 25 cargo trucks, begins a five-day stand Wednesday at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center and then moves to Uniondale, New York; Washington, D.C., Virginia; South Carolina; Alabama; North Carolina; Kentucky; Florida; Tennessee; and Georgia.
Next year, it’s due to hit Indiana, Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, California, Nevada, Washington, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New Hampshire and New Jersey. In 2016, it’s set to visit Missouri, Oklahoma again, Colorado and Utah.
Feld spent two years making the show, twice its typical research and development time. But none of the previous spectaculars had 11 motorcycles, 53 performers, 25 projectors, 10-foot falls, car crashes that end in flames and 37 cameras beaming video content.
“We’ve put in probably the largest and most sophisticated touring video system ever conceived, and then we’ve added a lot of tricks on top of that to really leverage that technology,” said Vaught.
One jaw-dropping effect is the use of 3-D projection mapping, also known as video mapping technology, which turns objects into display surfaces for video projection. Video content will also be sent to tiny beacons embedded in performers’ costumes to ensure that special effects like laser blasts stay smooth. “After all, Iron Man does not miss,” explained Vaught.
The tech team will beam images across the arena’s back wall — 110 feet across and 36 feet tall — and the floor, which is 70 feet wide by 140 feet long. A gigantic, 26-foot cylinder drops down for more storytelling, including a spiral motorcycle chase between Captain America and Red Skull.
The man picked to carry Captain America’s shield is Phil Smage, of Elkhorn, Wisconsin, someone as comfortable on snow as he is in the motorcycle saddle. He grew up an X-Man fan, competed at Winter X Games and was touring with Nuclear Cowboyz when he learned about the new arena show.
“It was really a perfect fit because I had already known about everything in the show and then when I heard they were going to incorporate motorcycle riding into it, it was meant to be,” he said.
The show’s fate hinged on The Hulk, who has been a hero of comics, a TV show and several movies but never a live-action show. Feld said he had to be massive yet agile — and 8-foot-5. “We start with the really tough stuff and then we go from there.” The end result: a half-man, half-robot powered by a pair of car batteries.
“What we’ve created is a mix of an incredibly athletic, acrobatic performer on stilts who is also working with a very sophisticated robotic system to manage the arms, the hands, and then we have someone manipulating his face so he can express a wide array of emotions and expressions,” she said. “It’s really amazing.”

By Esther Callens

Suellen Dainty has given the ultimate spin on middle age. Her debut novel, After Everything, is an engaging read that shows life at its best – WHEN THE DUST HAS SETTLED! At times poignant, at times intense, but always thought provoking, it presents a comical look at quinquagenarians.
Life is about decisions. Whether good or bad we have to suffer the consequences. Perhaps Sandy (After Everything’s main character) did not know this. Then again, maybe he just did and decided to roll the dice and hope for the best. Whatever he thought, it is a known fact that he is not happy with his current state of affairs. At one time in his life he was a celebrated songwriter with a beautiful wife and wonderful kids. The success of his career led him to neglect his family. Divorced now, his wife Peggy has moved to France and found love in the arms of another. His daughter Emily went to India in search of peace. Matt, his son, is in search of his next high. Sandy now spends most of his time alone with his libation of choice. Occasionally he visits with a few friends, who, by the way have their own baggage. Take Tim for example, and his far from perfect marriage to Angie. Then Peter, the master of casual affairs, has fallen head over heels in love with a free-spirited beauty named Frieda. Lastly Jeremy, the most successful one out of the bunch, harbors a detrimental addiction.
Middle age should not be like this for Sandy. So in a last ditch effort he tries to reconcile with his kids. This too will be futile unless he comes face to face with the secret that has been haunting him.
Written against the backdrop of London, India and other magnificent places, After Everything is an amusing story with some weighty characters. It affirms that some reality checks come late in life.
Sue Dainty was born in Australia. She has worked for Sydney Morning Herald, ABC, Sky News and others. She lives on a Somerset smallholding

By Esther Callens
Award winning multi-instrumentalist Chris Greco has an exciting new album available. Standards Vol. 1, offers a number of appetizing goodies that no jazz connoisseur will want to miss. Known for groundbreaking compositions, Greco gives his incredible take on “In Your Own Sweet Way”, “Mood Indigo”, “Solid” (this one is scorching!), “Yes and No” and five others. Approaching each piece as if it was his own, Greco certainly has the right stuff that fans can’t get enough of.
Track Listings: Well You Needn’t; Solid; You Don’t Know What Love Is; Bye-Ya; Softly As In A Morning Sunrise; Yes and No; Goodbye Porkpie Hat; Mood Indigo; In Your Own Sweet Way.
Album Personnel: Chris Greco (tenor, soprano saxophones, flute, clarinet, bass clarinet); Tom McMorran (piano); Chris Colangelo (contrabass); Otis Hayes (drums).

A wonderfully diverse music collection is presented in Roads Less Traveled featuring Michael Lake with Gerry Pagano. The ingenuity behind Michael’s latest lies in the fact that he played all the instruments with the exception of the bass trombone (Pagano). He then mixed them superbly to whereas sometimes it sounds as if an entire section is playing all at once. Who would have thought that music of this caliber could be produce mainly with one musician and his alto trombone?
A little bit of Latin, electronic, jazz, Zydeco and soul is included on Roads Less Traveled. It opens with Charlie Parker’s classic “Yardbird Suite”. Sprinkled within are John Coltrane’s “Moment’s Notice”, Dizzy Gillespie’s “A Night in Tunisia” and a few others. Surprisingly, he incorporated a beautiful arrangement of “Amazing Grace” (John Newton). Michael Lake did take the Roads Less Travelled on this project. The results produced a rare gem of a collective.
Track Listing: Yardbird Suite; Moment’s Notice; The Two Lonely People; Painted Desert; The Dry Cleaner from Des Moines; Amazing Grace; Love on a Real Train; Darn That Dream; The Ecuadorian Two-Step; Georgia; A Night in Tunisia; My Ship; I Wuz Ga’zun at the Cajun.
Album Personnel: Michael lake (alto trombone, percussion, keyboards, sound design), Gerry Pagano (Bass trombone).

BY MEREDITH COOPER

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Wyatt was extremely caring and understanding when Hope vented to him her frustrations regarding the possibility of Liam dating Ivy so soon after their breakup. While talking about their similarities and their many respective plots to break up Hope and Liam, Quinn became turned on and attempted to seduce Bill. Despite Liam’s concerned that he’s still hooked on Hope, Ivy offered to assist him in moving on. Maya was forthcoming with Carter about her plan to win back Rick by doing whatever it takes to end his marriage with Caroline. Rick and Eric questioned Ridge’s recent behavior and whether or not he’s up to designing the upcoming collection. Caroline became suspicious as to why Ridge has taken such an interest in wanting to design with her. Maya told Rick that she still loves him and assured him that Caroline’s not the right woman for him. Feeling pressured to deliver the kind of sketches that Ridge’s anticipating, Caroline interrogated him about what’s really going on. Determined to get what she wants, Maya shamelessly threw herself at an uninterested Rick. Brooke and Katie made a conscious effort to get their relationship back on track over lunch at Il Giardino.  Ridge confessed to Caroline about his inability to draw. Wyatt paid a visit to Bill with a proposition that would greatly benefit him and Hope but leave Liam in a lurch. Suspicious that Caroline and Ridge have been spending so much time together, Maya came up with a way to win Rick back. Hope was particularly blunt with Ivy about her feelings regarding Liam’s vulnerability and readiness to date again. When Bill tells of Wyatt’s recent request, Liam became irate and refused to lose out to his brother once again. Charlie received a call from a friend who let him know that Quinn made a short trip to Paris at the same time Liam and Ivy did. He and Pam received additional information that proves Quinn’s other offenses while in France.
THIS WEEK: Bill gives Quinn the benefit of the doubt regarding her reasoning for pushing Ivy into the Seine. Ivy implores Hope to allow Liam some space to move on with his life.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Kate pressured Sami to back up her lie to keep Stefano out of Salem. Clyde made a pitch to EJ. Jordan decided to talk things out with Rafe. Will got a new job offer. Sami and EJ had a major breakthrough in their relationship. Abigail locked herself and Ben in the storage room, so she could confess what’s in her heart. Despite trying to ignore her feelings for Aiden, Hope had a romantic fantasy about him. As JJ and Paige started their first year at college together, Eve plotted to break them up. Kate was wary of EJ and Sami growing closer. Aiden and Nicole bonded much to Hope’s dismay. Paige was a little uneasy when JJ hinted he would like to be more intimate with her. Jennifer was hurt when Daniel wasn’t quite as ready to reconcile as she thought. Daniel and Kayla informed Brady that they have a drug that could cure John. Theresa was horrified by Kristen’s news. Will attempted to patch things up with Sami. EJ and Clyde had a tense confrontation. Brady and Marlena waited anxiously to see if the experimental drug will bring John back to them. Kristen snapped when Theresa revealed that she and Brady slept together.
THIS WEEK: Someone figures out what Theresa has been hiding!  EJ is blindsided by an unexpected arrival.

GENERAL HOSPITAL
Patrick was close to telling Sam the truth about what he discovered at Crichton-Clark but was quickly distracted by Spencer’s surprising information about the car accident. Dante, Lulu, Maxie and Nathan found themselves in unexpected jeopardy. In the interim, Dante and Lulu discussed Luke’s recent strange behavior and were stunned to see a surprise visitor.  Meanwhile, Maxie and Nathan discussed their true feelings. Obrecht shared some vital information with Anna. Both Britt and Victor questioned if Nathan is Victor’s son. Despite being tempting by Sonny, Carly tried to resist her attraction to him. Nathan made a bold confession.  Dante and Lulu faced an unforeseen challenge. Levi was out for blood. Victor took matters into his own hands in regards to Nathan’s paternity. Anna demanded answers from a hesitant Obrecht. Spencer admitted to Emma, Patrick and Sam that he thinks Luke was behind the car accident. Julian tried to win back Alexis while Alexis set her sights on another man. TJ wanted to know who’s Shawn’s mystery woman. Jordan tried to convince Ava to reveal the mob boss, but Ava was suddenly distracted. Jordan came to Ava’s aid. Sabrina was in a dark space and slowly started to plot her revenge. With the recent information about Luke’s possible involvement in the accident, Sam and Patrick changed the strategy of their investigation. Nina pressured Rosalie to begin her scheme to bring down another person on her list. At the end of the day, Rosalie joined Michael, Kiki and Morgan for pizza where Rosalie later overheard some secret information. Lulu was in serious danger. Mac and Felicia continued to worry about the whereabouts of Maxie. Meanwhile, Maxie accidentally ran into a perilous stranger. Nathan was determined to protect Maxie at all costs. Anna reluctantly worked with Obrecht to get to the truth.
THIS WEEK: Obrecht makes a scandalous confession to Victor. A special patient tries to fight off restraints.
YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Mariah came by the Underground, and Summer was taken aback when Mariah said she wants no part of the Newman family. The two then got into an argument, and Mariah went to clean out her locker. Summer filled Abby in on what happened while Mariah confided in Austin. Later, Abby cautioned Summer about Austin being nice to Mariah. At the coffeehouse, Mariah asked Kevin to get her out of town. Avery was thrown off by Dylan’s attitude towards Paul. Later, Paul learned he has received the Distinguished Citizen’s Award, and Christine planned a surprise party to celebrate. When Christine invited Avery and Dylan to the party, she decided she needs to clear the air with Dylan. Victor came home to Nikki who asked where he was, but Victor evaded. Their argument soon escalated when Victor asked why Nikki turned to Paul for help. Later, Victor resorted to threats against Dr. Cutler when he has no news to report on Phyllis’s condition.  Nikki was worried she’s been recognized drinking at a roadside bar and met a woman named Maureen. Nikki and Maureen began to bond over their problems. Later, Maureen saw a newspaper and realized who Nikki really is. Jack had a dream about Phyllis, and Kelly was nervous that Jack’s having second thoughts about their relationship. Later, Jack told Kelly that it’s his love for her that’s keeping him from going to check on things at the clinic. Victoria filled Victor in on Ashley being back at Jabot. She soon started to wonder if Victor wanted her to spy on Stitch to get information on their new product.  Hilary was shocked when Lily came to her defense after Neil snapped at her. Malcolm arrived to Genoa City to everyone’s surprise. Neil and Malcolm were left alone to have a heart-to-heart. Sharon noticed the tension between Hilary and Devon.
THIS WEEK:  Chelsea has a dream about Adam. Billy admits that he misses Chelsea and wants to know what comes next for them.