By 
Gwen DeRu

HISTORY!  BLACK HISTORY! 
 
BLACK HISTORY IN BLACK HISTORY MONTH!!

Continue to ‘read’ all that you can….and ‘what’ you can.   March is Women’s History Month…right around the corner!
 
This is still Black History Month!
)
TODAY…..Councilwoman Sheila Tyson will host Black History Month Discussion on Women in the Media, 7:30 p.m. discussion and 9 p.m. Screening of Scandal.  The Event Concludes with Screening of the Hit TV Show “Scandal.”  The discussion is on the evolution of African-American Women in the media, followed by a screening of the season premiere of the hit political drama “Scandal.”  The event is free and open to the public at Matthew’s Bar and Grill, 2208 Morris Avenue, Birmingham, Ala.   Call (205) 500-6484.

JUDGE HELEN SHORES LEE – SPEAKS AT MOMENTUM LEADERS – ‘Accelerating the Speed of Change’ is the Momentum Conference–Building Women Leaders in Alabama and it will be packed with nine tracks in three breakout sessions led by over 40 outstanding Alabama women professionals.  It will also honor five of Alabama’s top women leaders.  Judge Helen Shores Lee will be celebrated for her Inspiration and for her outstanding lifelong achievements.  “Helen Shores Lee has lived a life of learning, growing, and giving. She is a magnificent example of a woman who has reinvented herself to meet the many opportunities and challenges presented her. Unselfish, interesting, and genuine, Alabama is the better for having Judge Lee choose to return here to work and raise her family,” stated Barbara Royal, Executive Director, MOMENTUM Women’s Leadership.  The Honorable Helen Shores Lee was appointed Circuit Judge of the Tenth Judicial court of Alabama by Governor Don Siegelman and assumed the bench in January 2003.  Judge Lee became the first African-American woman to serve in the Civil Division of the Circuit court of Jefferson County.  “As a child, I learned from my parents early the importance of giving back to the community.  As an adult, I have found that giving of your time and service can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life.  If I am to promote the welfare of my community and make my city a better place to live, then I must get involved and I must give my time, my service and myself for the benefit of others,” says Judge Lee.  Keynote speakers are GEENA DAVIS, Academy award actress and founder of Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media and ANNE-MARIE SLAUGHTER, president of the New American Foundation, Princeton University professor emerita and author of ‘Why Women Still Can’t Have IT All.’ Awards Ceremony is Wednesday 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. and the conference is Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the BJCC East Ballroom.  Visit: momentumleadershipconference.com

AFFORDABLE CARE ACT – Hear from four leading experts on the new government health care law – the Affordable Care Act – clearly one of the most complex and yet most important issues facing businesses today. 
On March 5, 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. panelists will address the basics, like:

•       What are the facts I need now?

•       What’s the impact on me and on my employees?

•       What’s the timing?  When are the critical deadlines?

•       What’s the best source for more information?

They’ll also help you get up to speed on the specifics of the new law related to health care, insurance, financial and tax planning, and your legal questions.  Make a reservation today. The Affordable Care Act Seminar at the Harbert Center, 2019 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, Ala. 35203. There is a cost of $15

 This is presented by The Birmingham Business Alliance. Some sponsors are Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Balch & Bingham LLC, Warren Averett LLC, Brookwood Medical Center and St. Vincent’s Health System.  Registration is only $15 per person, but you must register in advance. You’ll be glad you did.  Call Barry Copeland, Senior Vice President operations and Strategic Initiatives at (205) 241-8105 for more.
 
MORE………. ON AFFORDABLE CARE ACT – Get information March 8 and 22, 10 a.m.– noon and 1 – 3 p.m. at the Birmingham Public Library Downtown.  Open Enrollment ends MARCH 31.  SIGN UP NOW!! Call 937-5452 or 937-5026 for more.
 
COMING….SOON….

MARCH 4 – Red Rock Tuesday with Jeh Jeh Pruitt, 6:30 – 8:30 a.m. at the East Thomas Park, 13th Avenue West, Birmingham Ala. 35204. You are invited to join them March 4th at East Thomas Park.  During the next Red Rock Tuesday segment on Good Day Alabama, visit the first phase of the City of Birmingham’s TIGER grant!  With over 29 miles of sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails scheduled to be complete within the next year, the extension of the Civil Rights Trail into the Smithfield, East Thomas, and Enon Ridge neighborhoods is the first completed section under the grant.  Please join them at East Thomas Park as they celebrate the new trail with the partners who made it a reality.  Directions: To get to East Thomas Park from downtown, travel west along Abraham Woods Boulevard (8th Avenue N.) towards Legion Field.   Turn right on to Center Street and travel over I-20/59.  Turn left on to 12th Avenue West and you will pass Wilkerson Middle School.   Turn Right on to 3rd Street West, and the entrance to East Thomas Park will be immediately on your left, right after the Red Rock Trailhead sign.  See you there!

MARCH 6-9 – SELMA BRIDGE CROSSING JUBILEE – This year’s jubilee activities include a workshop by Rev. William Barber II, leader of North Carolina’s Moral Monday Movement, as well as the Unity Breakfast, many festivities and the pilgrimage across the Edmund Pettus Bridge.
The 49th commemoration kicks off on Thursday March 6th with a traditional
 mass meeting at the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma with speaker
Rev. William Barber, head of the North Carolina NAACP State Conference
and leader of North Carolina’s Moral Mondays Movement. 
Other events over the four days include: a music and street festival with
live entertainment and vendors, the annual Unity Breakfast with a featured
guest speaker; the Freedom Flame Awards honoring heroes from the past and
those continuing in the legacy of past heroes, including actor Lou Gossett Jr.
and former Atlanta mayor Shirley Franklin; an Education summit, a Youth
Summit and the annual re-enactment of the Bridge Crossing.


MARCH 8 – INVEST IN YOURSELF, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the CBF Ministries International, 9094 Rear Parkway East Birmingham, Ala. 35206.  The Women Who Win Ministry of CBF Ministries International invites you to share in a One Day Empowerment Experience. Come and “Invest In Yourself” on May 8, 2014. Enjoy and experience powerful breakout sessions, panel discussions, various vendor sales, breakfast and lunch, the soulful sounds of Gospel Recording Artist Marquita Anthony, an impactful impartation from Best Selling Author Vanessa Davis Griggs and a word from God from our guest speaker, President & CEO of Pinky Promise, Heather Lindsey. You do not want to miss this event. It will be an encounter to remember.   For more call (205) 240-6559.

MARCH 13 – UNWIND WITH VULCAN AND 2014 COLLECTORS – Join the fun after-hours and unwind with Vulcan. Explore the museum, mingle with friends, and enjoy cocktails and refreshments as the sun sets over Birmingham. At 6 p.m. there is a unique program exploring the people, places and events that have shaped our dynamic city.  In celebration of the 110th Anniversary of Vulcan’s creation, Vulcan® Park and Museum is proud to present Birmingham Collectors, our exploration of the art of buying and selling Vulcan and Birmingham historical keepsakes. The program features Graham Boettcher of the Birmingham Museum of Art, Jim Reed of Jim Reed Books, Steve Gilmer of What’s on 2nd and Greg Hodges of Hodges and Associates sharing their adventures in the fine art of collecting. Gather tricks of the trade from these local collectors and see selections of their most interesting finds. Special Guest: 15-year old “picker” Henry Kilpatrick of Magic City Finds, who The New York Times recently profiled. You are invited to bring your own Vulcan, Birmingham or Alabama items to share. 
MARCH 31 – Special Exhibition Baseball Game – Miles College vs. Barons, 6:30 p.m. at Regions Field.  For more information call 205-929-1439

NOW…. a BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUT FOR FEBRUARY! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU JACKIE DAVISON…AND TO ALL CELEBRATING!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL YOU BIRTHDAY BALLERS…MANY, MANY MORE HAPPY BIRTHDAYS!!  ENJOY!!
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)

By EURweb.com

Rapper/actor Ludacris has been ordered to pay $7,000-a-month to the mother of his baby daughter after attempting to plead poverty to limit the amount of child support he would have to giver her, reports TMZ.
Luda, real name Christopher Bridges, became a father for a second time on December 9, when former lover Tamika Fuller gave birth to Cai. Fuller filed papers for financial support, asking for a monthly check of $15,000 to care for the newborn, but Ludacris challenged the claim, insisting he couldn’t afford to pay that much. Ludacris impregnated Fuller while still in a relationship with current girlfriend Eudoxie.
Last month, he requested a Georgia judge cap his child support liabilities to a maximum of $1,800 a month, blaming the stalled production of “Fast & Furious 7,” which has been on hold since the death of star Paul Walker in November, for affecting his cash flow.
He also claimed to only have made $55,000 in 2013.
The case returned to court on Wednesday (Feb. 19), when a judge ruled against Ludacris, although he refused to grant the full amount demanded by Fuller.
Instead, he decided to temporarily award Fuller $7,000-a-month, which will be reviewed once all of the financial documents have been assessed.

NEW YORK (AP) — Lil’ Kim is pregnant with her first child.
The rapper’s publicist C.J. Carter confirmed the news Thursday, a day after pictures of Kim’s baby bump began to circulate via social media following her appearance at New York Fashion Week.
The 39-year-old “Lady Marmalade” singer’s assistant Noel Perez says Kim is about five months along and due in May. No other details were available.
Lil’ Kim, whose real name is Kim Jones, debuted her baby bump in a tight dress at The Blonds fashion show.

Shawndrell Hampton, a native of Birmingham, AL, is known by her fans as the “Goddess of Dreams.” She has ignited a Revolution of Dreamers with her new Album “Dream of Shawndrell,” which was released November 2013. She has captivated her fans by proving dreams really do come true. It has been her lifelong dream to write and produce an album that would embrace the hearts and minds of thousands of people across the world. Her fan base of Dreamers has extended to counties across the globe. Shawndrell has always believed, “A Dream is a reality destined to manifest.”

 Hip-hop artist and Birmingham native, JABO visited his high school alma mater, Wenonah High School, yesterday to share positive words of encouragement about staying in school and striving for greatness, with the students in the classrooms of some of his favorite teachers.  JABO a/k/a Javan Ishman is a graduate of Wenonah and has made it a point to go back to Wenonah from time to time to keep the lines of communication strong. He explains, “No matter where I am, I always make time in my schedule to come and visit.  It’s important for kids to see and hear people from their hometown who are just like them and relate.” After graduating from Wenonah, Ishman went on to Alabama State University and graduated with a degree in Business.

 Timothy Huffman III and “Official Clutch Band” participated in saluting 10 decades of culture-defining African American style with “Macy’s Celebrates Black History.” They were applauded with an amazing “Live performance.” An “In Conversation” discussion fused with a Fashion Presentation hosted by Good Morning Alabama, showcasing the hottest fashion with models from Miss Alabama Latina and Miss Black U.S. Ambassador.
There was a special reception with fabulous fashion, a special dance performance.
Visit macys.com/celebrate February 1st through February 28th to enter for a chance to win* a Delta Vacations trip for 2 to New York City, the style capital of the world! Prize includes round trip flights, hotel accommodations and a $1,000 Macy’s shopping spree! For more details, visit macys.com/celebrate.
If you would like for us to entertain at your event please contact us at 205-427-8597 or 205-788-5835.

Dinner & reception to honor award winning writer, producer & director

 NEW YORK– (BLACK PR WIRE) – (BUSINESS WIRE) – Uptown Ventures Group, the parent company of UPTOWN Magazine has announced that they will be honoring award winning writer, producer and director, Malcolm D. Lee at the 2014 Annual Uptown Pre-Oscar Gala.
The Gala will take place on Thursday, February 27th at one of Hollywood’s classics, Sadie Supper Club. The evening will celebrate the outstanding achievements as a Writer, Producer and Director of such memorable films as “Roll Bounce,” “Undercover Brother,” “Best Man” and his most recent box office hit “Best Man Holiday.” The exclusive invitation only event will bring together 100 of the industry’s brightest executives and true celebrities both in front of and behind the camera for a dinner followed by an private reception for additional guests afterwards.
“I am honored to be recognized by UPTOWN Magazine for my body of work. The publication, like the stories I am so passionate about telling, represents the complexity that is us. I am gratified and humbled to join the likes of previous recipients of this honor and truly looking forward to a wonderful evening,” said Malcolm D. Lee.
This year’s event is presented by Lexus. Other sponsors include Credit Suisse, Tanqueray Ten and NBC-Universal. Past honorees have included Lee Daniels, Will Packer, Salim Akil, Ava Duvernay, as well as Reggie and Warrington Hudlin. “We are extremely excited to honor Malcolm D. Lee this year. His films have entertained and inspired so many. His thoughtful and colorful approach to everyday life events enable our audience to relate, laugh and reflect upon ourselves in a way that we often don’t have the opportunity to on the silver screen,” said Len Burnett, Co-CEO and Chief Revenue Officer.

 Photo Credit: Ray Lopez Dharknight Media

MINNEAPOLIS – “The Producer’s Corner with Spud Too Tight,” a renowned celebrity music production and tech talk show since 2009, paid special homage to legendary icon Teddy Riley with a special in-depth interview with singer, songwriter Darryl Easterling ask Tiger Da Writer during the show’s most recent installment.  Tiger Da Writer recaps his career as Riley’s former A&R consultant during the 30-minute video production with host Spud Too Tight, with both acknowledging Riley’s vast musical contributions and unwavering support for their professional pursuits.
Tiger Da Writer shares how Riley opened up his home to him in 2008 and soon after offered him an opportunity to serve as an A&R consultant. The position served as impetus for a list of esteemed accomplishments throughout his career. “Teddy Riley advised me to never rush your music, let it come, keep it simple but never erase a track as it is like throwing away millions,” disclosed Tiger Da Writer.
Tiger Da Writer was signed early on to producer Easy Mo Bee as a recording artist, and has worked with Montel Jordan and Mario and wrote “Highway To Love.”  In 2009 he worked with producer Sir Jinx and wrote and performed the hook to Ice Cube’s “Life in California” on the “I AM The West” album. The album was released in 2010. He has since launched his own company, M&T A&R Consulting LLC.
Music producer and composer Spud Too Tight details how the King of New Jack Swing changed his life musically and technically by providing him a new blueprint of how to run a studio. Spud Too Tight converted from MAC to PC based on Riley’s mentoring and advice. “After several personal conversations, Riley gained an understanding of me as a producer and tech guru. He then amazingly gifted me with a music library of every sound unimaginable! I could never put a price tag on what he did for me and I will be forever grateful,” reveals Spud Too Tight.
Spud Too Tight and Tiger Da

Writer explore the true definition of New Jack Swing and examine how contrasting music worlds were merged to birth this new genre of music in the late ’80s. They review the legacy and impact of the creation today. Both men agree that the Grammy award-winning Riley is a true music scientist who has nurtured the success of R&B, urban, hip hop and even pop music with a legacy that will reign forever. They conclude in the conversational tribute that there can be no real discussion about music without acknowledging and attributing Teddy Riley.

“Grammy Platinum Icon Teddy Riley has respectfully earned the title ‘The King of New Jack Swing.’ There is an innovative and technical driving force that continues to flow within this musical genius architect, bringing only the most prolific legendary signature sound to the multi-genre masses, historically and in today’s music market place,” cites Monica Anders, PR Strategist for Teddy Riley. From composing and producing R&B, hip hop and pop and as the first African American producer to bring K-Pop to the USA, his schedule remains non-stop in the studio as he continues to perform sellout concerts worldwide with his new group BS2 which include members Lenny Harold, Tony Tyler, J-Stylz and Dave Hollister.
As a tech genius, he has conducted technical education demonstrations for several years at NAMM for companies such as PreSonus and AKAI among others. He has more than 1000 credits to his name since 1987, producing, writing and performing on countless No.1 hits such as Keith Sweat’s “Make it Last,” Bobby Brown’s, “My Prerogative,” Blackstreet’s “No Diggity,” and Michael Jackson’s multi-Grammy award winning LP “Dangerous.” “Dangerous” sold more than 35 million copies worldwide and has been listed as the most successful “New Jack Swing” album of all time.

BY MEREDITH COOPER

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Hope was flooded with memories of her numerous failed weddings as she filled Liam in on what had transpired at Brooke and Ridge’s wedding. Liam filled Hope in on his theory regarding Katie’s recent health scare. Bill and Quinn relived their torrid past together. Brooke interrupted a private and intimate conversation between Katie and Ridge. Due to recent events, Bill was convinced that he had been given a second chance to win Brooke’s heart back. Hope concocted a plan to allow Ridge and Katie time alone to explore their feelings for each other. Unaware of the true reason behind the last minute business trip, Brooke agreed to accompany Hope to Paris. Bill paid a visit to Brooke to make another plea to reunite. Wyatt was oblivious to the true meaning behind Quinn’s confession when she told him about her recent interaction with Bill. Wanting to rekindle their love for each other, Bill invited himself on Brooke’s trip to Paris. Ridge attempted to quell Katie’s overwhelming guilt about how her feelings for him may affect Brooke. Hope got an unexpected surprise en route to France. Aly confided in Thorne about her concerns regarding a few recent decisions that Hope had made in her personal life. Bill set Quinn straight about how what happened between them the other evening would never happen again. In turn, Quinn proposed that she, Bill and Wyatt try being a family. Eric and Pam discussed the disturbing secret that had been kept quiet by the Forrester family for years. Hope and Wyatt were shocked by Aly’s candidness when she gave her opinion about their relationship. Wyatt pitched a new HFTF jewelry line to the creative team at Forrester International.
THIS WEEK: Aly attempts to convince Hope that Wyatt and Quinn are having a negative impact on the image of Forrester Creations. Old wounds are re-opened when Eric gets a surprise visit from a former friend and lover.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES

Jennifer wanted to reunite with Daniel – but he worried Theresa’s still a threat. Theresa and Brady bonded over drinks. Later, Brady had an uneasy feeling he’s being watched. EJ attempted to end his affair with Abigail. Sami blasted Nicole when she learned Eric was leaving the priesthood. A guilt-ridden Nicole tried to correct her mistake – but might end up exposing it instead.  JJ came clean with Abigail. Sami and EJ set a wedding date. Brady accused Maggie and Victor of having him followed. Hope and Aiden were forced to work together. Gabi agreed to go out with T – but Nick schemed to nip that potential romance in the bud. The person spying on Rafe and Jordan was revealed. Nick drew Gabi close by playing on her insecurities. Jordan was confronted by her past.  Hope clashed with Aiden when he made the wrong assumption. Abigail and EJ came to an understanding. Marlena made a deal with the devil. Jennifer helped Eric out with a job opportunity.  Jordan was shaken after her confrontation with Ben.
THIS WEEK: Jordan was confronted by her past. Marlena made a deal with the devil.

GENERAL HOSPITAL

“General Hospital” celebrated another milestone with its 13,000th episode, unveiling new twists and turns in the relationship between teenagers Molly and TJ while Michael and Kiki discussed taking their relationship in a new direction. An unstable AJ tried to remember what really happened the night of Connie’s murder. More questions were raised when Shawn traced the money that funds Julian’s operations. Rafe got a surprise visitor. Patrick and Robin made a heart-wrenching and emotional decision that will affect their lives forever. Now that Ava was in a bind, she wanted Carlos to do her dirty work. Julian shook up TJ when he had an overdue chat about what he might have told the PCPD about the warehouse shooting. Molly was furious with Alexis for interrupting her date. Alexis demanded to know why a man from Port Charles’ past had returned.  Sam and Silas found another but dubious way to clear Silas’s name.  Although AJ had his mind on other matters, he had reassuring words for a heartbroken Michael. Delia tried to give a warning to Sam, but she and Silas were romantically occupied. Sonny and Shawn had a lot to say to TJ when he told them what Julian wanted him to do regarding the shootout. When Nathan showed Kiki the file on her father, he let her know she might make some unpleasant discoveries. Sonny paid an unexpected visit to the Metro Court’s latest occupant. When Shawn told Alexis about Julian’s threats toward TJ, she questioned the trust she has for Julian. Sonny suspected ulterior motives for why a distant relative had returned to Port Charles and had a warning for him. Sam, Silas and Delia reviewed their scheme to throw suspicion on Nakamura. Patrick told the pregnant Sabrina about his situation with Robin. A masked Carlos attacked AJ, who wondered who – and why – someone would want him dead! Robin broke emotional news to friends and family with Anna suspecting her daughter wasn’t being forthcoming. Sonny offered Lulu emotional support regarding Dante’s new situation. In front of Nikolas, Britt asked Liz why she was at the Wyndemere the other day. THIS WEEK: Shocking news forces Silas to realize he must confront his past. AJ’s memory is jarred once again about the night of Connie’s death and he decides to go to Ava’s for answers.

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Michael showed Lauren a postcard they received, and they realized it’s from Carmine. Lauren realized there’s nothing that would stop Carmine from returning to Genoa City. Following the tumultuous night at the Gala, Colin told Cane that he’s glad he could help him. Cane turned the tables and said that Colin had always enjoyed when someone was in his debt. Colin assured Cane that he had no intention of collecting on any type of debt. Colin asked Jill about the romantic dinner she promised him and suggested making reservations.  Jill agreed to a kiss from Colin for information on the music box. Colin gave Jill a piece of paper with an important name on it. Nikki asked to check out the life coach that Summer planned on meeting with, but Summer reminded her grandmother that she’s an adult and intended to keep her eyes and ears open. Later, Paul realized that Nikki hadn’t told Victor that Ian’s in town. Meanwhile, Summer met with Ian, and he asked her to start by telling her everything about herself.  He offered to do a personality test for Summer and said she must put herself completely in his hands. Summer decided to stay at the hotel with Ian and fill out the personality test. Across town, Dylan told Nick they should find Ian and convince him to leave town. Avery made them promise that they wouldn’t need a lawyer when they’re done with Ian. Dylan told her not to worry, but Nick refused to make any promises.  Nick comforted Sharon who’s still nervous about continually seeing Cassie. Sharon admitted that she has worried about never being able to get better. Dr. Mead offered to have a session in Sharon’s home since she frequently saw Cassie there.  Dr. Mead gave Sharon a new prescription.  Chloe blamed Chelsea for letting Adam be a father to Connor.  Victor, Chelsea and Kevin had a heated confrontation with Chloe. Kelly told Stitch that she’s in no mood for a lecture on how she ruined another marriage.  Victoria entered and was surprised to find Stitch with Kelly. Noah returned a present to Courtney that came to his house from her. She told Noah that everything they had together was real and none of that was a lie just because he now knows that she’s a cop. Noah responded by kissing her. Hilary told Jack they needed to talk about the night she kissed him.  Jack assured her that what she did was innocent compared to everything else that happened at the fundraiser. Later, Hilary went to the ballroom to get her phone back and ran into Devon. They shared a laugh when Esmeralda interrupted.
THIS WEEK: Neil pleads with Leslie to make things official and commit to him. Sharon confides in Noah that she is seeing Cassie again.