BSC Department of Theatre to stage Company
Company, an award-winning Stephen Sondheim musical about adult struggles and relationships, runs Nov. 21-24 in the College Theatre/Mainstage. Shows are Nov. 21-23 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 24 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for the general public; $10 for students. For more info, call 226-4780.
Art “Chroma” sculpture exhibit kicks off next Friday
The “Chroma” Art Exhibit, on display Nov. 1-26, will feature sculptors Jamey Grimes and Natalie Dunham—both BSC alumni. Grimes teaches design and drawing at the University of Alabama, where he earned his MFA in sculpture. Dunham is director of The Rymer Gallery in Nashville, Tenn. She received her MFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art. An opening reception for the exhibit will be held Friday, Nov. 1, from 6-8 p.m. in the Durbin Gallery. For more info, call 226-4929.
‘MOST WONDERFUL MOVIES OF CHRISTMAS’ Featuring the Network’s first-ever original Holiday movie “Christmas With Tucker” and five Christmas Classics
Hallmark Movie Channel brings viewers a new family tradition this year with the “Most Wonderful Movies of Christmas,” beginning Monday, November 11. This unique holiday programming slate will feature the network’s first-ever Original Holiday Movie, “Christmas With Tucker” and a collection of holiday classics including, “Holiday Affair,” “Christmas in Connecticut,” “It Happened on 5th Avenue,” “The Bishop’s Wife” and “Babes in Toyland.” So, gather the family together and cozy up by the fire place as you won’t want to miss these heart-warming movies that bring the true meaning of Christmas to your family.
The Programming Slate For “Most Wonderful Movies of Christmas” 2013 Includes: ‘CHRISTMAS WITH TUCKER’ Monday, November 25 (9p.m. ET/PT, 8C) Starring: James Brolin, Gage Munroe, Josie Bissett, Barbara Gordon ‘HOLIDAY AFFAIR’ Thursday, November 14 (9p.m. ET/PT, 8C) Starring: Robert Mitchum, Janet Leigh, Wendell Cory ‘IT HAPPENED ON 5th AVENUE’ Thursday, November 21 (8:30p.m. ET/PT, 7:30C) Starring: Gale Storm, Victor Moore, Ann Harding ‘CHRISTMAS IN CONNECTICUT’ Thursday, November 28 (8:30p.m. ET/PT, 7:30C) Starring: Barbara Stanwyck, Dennis Morgan, Sydney Greenstreet ‘THE BISHOP’S WIFE’ Thursday, December 5 (8:30p.m. ET/PT, 7:30C) Starring: Cary Grant, Loretta Young, David Niven ‘BABES IN TOYLAND’ Thursday, December 12 (8:30p.m. ET/PT, 7:30C) Starring: Annette Funicello, Tommy Sands, Ray Bolger, Ed Wynn, Tommy Kirk ‘TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA: THE GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS EVE’ Thursday, November 28 (9a.m. ET/PT, 8C) ‘THE HOLLYWOOD CHRISTMAS PARADE’ Friday, December 20 (5p.m. ET/PT, 4C) ‘CHRISTMAS CLASSICS MARATHON’ Hallmark Movie Channel Special Event Wednesday, December 25 (9a.m. – 11p.m. ET/PT, 8C) Spend your Christmas Day enjoying classic Christmas favorites on Hallmark Movie Channel!
Holiday Affair 9a.m. – 11a.m. Babes in Toyland 11a.m. – 1:30p.m. The Bishop’s Wife 1:30p.m. – 4p.m. Christmas in Connecticut 4p.m. – 6:30p.m. It Happened on Fifth Avenue 6:30p.m. – 9p.m. Holiday Affair 9p.m. – 11p.m.
Digital web series to provide original content targeted to African Americans
(BLACK PR WIRE) – NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE) – UPTOWN Magazine, the only luxury lifestyle magazine for the affluent African American consumer, announced it has launched “Uptown Unplugged,” a digital channel featuring original content. As a part of this new venture with Uptown Media Ventures, Marriott International is proud to be the presenting sponsor of “Uptown Studio,” “Uptown ProFiles” and “The H List.”
“We are thrilled to be expanding our brand experience to the digital space and very excited to have Marriott International as our partner in this venture,” said Len Burnett, UPTOWN Magazine Co-Founder and Group Publisher. “Our strategy is to create a strong mix of original and curated content and provide our clients with the best in class production, programming and custom branded entertainment.”
Each episode will be filmed in the Uptown Studio located in the Renaissance New York Hotel 57 located at Lexington Avenue and 57th Street in New York City.
The channel will also feature branded entertainment segments from brand partners Marriott International and Ciroc, among others to be announced shortly.
“Each episode will run approximately 3-5 minutes and the first show will launch in November 2013,” said Executive Producer Lynne McDaniel. “With a strong social media push, the channel will allow Uptown to connect with consumers utilizing online digital content and social engagement tools.”
“Uptown Unplugged offers Marriott the unique opportunity to reach an audience in a significant way that not only educates, but entertains,” said Kristine Friend, Senior Director of Segment Marketing for Marriott International.
New York Times best-selling author K. A. Robinson has returned with yet another engrossing narrative. Following on the heels of her remarkable title Torn, is its extraordinary sequel, Twisted. Pitting enduring lovers amidst a toxic concoction of drama, Twisted offers an incredible tale that’s overflowing with emotions.
Fans were first introduced to Chloe and Drake in Torn. They are two young adults whose childhoods were marred by varying events of tragedy. Most importantly, they share a love for each other that was tested. Consequently, they survived and are now trying to put the past behind them and move on. This is proving to be easily said than done.
Lovers Chloe and Drake are now enjoying their happily ever after, until they are surprised with a visitor – Chloe’s mother. While continuing to relish a life of partying and drugs, it is astounding that Chloe’s abusive mother found time to visit her. Not surprising is the fact that her reappearance is not social. In fact, her mother is just as conniving as ever. She is hell bent on implementing one of her devious schemes that will wreak havoc on Chloe, Drake and numerous others’ lives. Things can get worse – and they do.
Out of nowhere emerges one of Drake’s, exes. Having been scorned and not willing to take no for an answer, she will not stop at anything to get and keep him.
Chloe and Drake have endured where many couples have failed. But the antics that Chloe’s mom and Drake’s ex simultaneously pull, dares to shred them literally to pieces. Bonds are ultimately tested for the young lovers. Likewise, choices must be made that it is solely up to Chloe and Drake. Will they continue their voyage together or pass as two ships in the night?
Twisted is a great book that is filled with raw drama and heartfelt emotions. K. A. Robinson has a propensity for writing fantastic reads.
Newly available are some notable recordings worthy of giving a listen to. Saxophonist/composer Adam Rongo is making quite a name for himself. His debut CD, Tell Your Song (on D Clef Records), is a lively collection of some awesome tunes that will make even the most discerning enthusiast give an ear to.
Tell your Story opens in full swing mode on “Turnin’ the Corner.” It is a jumping track that accurately sets the tone by presenting what the entire album is all about. “Temporary Paralysis” is mind blowing. Rongo and company literally poured all the bell and whistles into it. “You’re Mine, You” and “Stardust”are two rich and mellow cuts that Rongo takes center stage on. They are fabulous! There is not one mediocre tune on this CD as all of the eleven tracks are impressive.
Adam Rongo received his Master’s Degree in 2012 from Michigan State University. He is a proficient instructor who has performed at numerous venues (Chicago Symphony Center, Bimhuis in Amsterdam, etc.) with an A-list of talents (Branford Marsalis, Bob James, etc.). Adam Rongo is a young talent who knows what really good jazz is all about.
Track listing: Turnin’ the Corner; You Don’t Know What Love Is; Temporary Paralysis; You’re Mine, You; Doppelganger; Good and Terrible; The Wager; Two Tees; Stardust; Tell Your Story; Fifty-Six.
Track Personnel: Adam Rongo; Etieene Charles; Michael Dease; Emmet Cohen; Rodney Whitaker; Ulysses Owens, Jr. Special guests: Randy Napoleon and Behn Gillece.
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In retail is Brazilian Saxophonist and composer Sergio Galvao debut CD as a leader. Phantom Fish is the title of this long overdue collection. Offering eight remarkable tunes, Galvao has really shed a long overdue new light on himself.
Phantom Fish is a fantastic modern, intense collection. The melodies are carefree, seductive and inviting. The included compositions are “Amphybious”, “Zuruba”, “Casa Amarela”, “Meu Nobre”, “Phantom Fish”, “Mandruzza”, “Ja Lu” and “Vou Deitar E Rolar.” Phantom fish is released through Pimenta Music.
AT&T Unveils 2014 Edition of The Alabama African American history Calendar
Thom Gossom
Benjamin Sterling Turner
Ralph David Abernathy
Herschell Lee Hamilton
John LeFlore
Lawrence J. Pijeaux, Jr.
Alexis M. Herman
Amelia Boynton Robinson
Arthur Shores
Richard Arrington
Henry Panion
Dinah Washington
Honorees Include Civil Rights Activists, Educators, Doctors, and Musicians
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – AT&T* has announced the unveiling of the 2014 edition of the Alabama African American History Calendar. The publication highlights individuals from across the state who have made a lasting impact on communities and individuals in Alabama and around the world.
“The 2014 history calendar is a testimonial to the hard work and dedication of the people honored in the calendar,” said Fred McCallum, president, AT&T Alabama. “I am very pleased that AT&T, along with our valuable partners, is once again presenting this inspirational calendar that will serve as an educational guide to tens of thousands of children across Alabama.”
Representing communities from across Alabama, the class of 2014 represents a wide variety of fields, including education, community activism, civil rights, local government, law, medicine, and music.
To download an electronic copy of the 2014 calendar or to access biographies of current and past honorees and resources for educators, please visit http://alafricanamerican.com/.
The 2014 History Calendar’s honorees include:
Thom Gossom – Athlete, actor, author, entrepreneur, and speaker are a few of the titles listed on his resume. He was the second African American to play football at Auburn, and reportedly the first African American to walk-on and earn a scholarship in the Southeastern Conference, which he later wrote about is his acclaimed memoir Walk-On: My Reluctant Journey to Integration at Auburn University.
Benjamin Sterling Turner – Born into slavery, he went on to become an entrepreneur, business executive, civic leader, and legislator. In 1870, he became the first African American from Alabama elected to the United States Congress, where he served from 1871 to 1873.
Ralph David Abernathy – Over the course of his lifetime, he served as a pastor, veteran, author, co-founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and Civil Rights activist. From organizing the historic yearlong Montgomery bus boycott to leading the Poor People’s Campaign of 1968, he was deeply involved with leveling the playing field and improving the lives of African Americans throughout the country.
Herschell Lee Hamilton – He committed his life to the advancement of civil rights and the health and well-being of all people, but particularly African-Americans. Under his direct care, many sick and injured civil rights participants received free medical and surgical care. In 1965, he served as a medical coverage team member on the first day of the Selma to Montgomery March, and two of his well-known patients included Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
John LeFlore – For more than 50 years, he was the voice and face of the civil rights movement along the Gulf Coast. He played a key role in the desegregation of the Mobile public schools and worked to change the at-large election format in Mobile to ensure African Americans had a voice in government.
Lawrence J. Pijeaux, Jr. – As President and Chief Executive Officer of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, he works to bring to life both the anguish and the accomplishments of the long march to freedom through interactive, multi-media exhibits, along with an impressive archives and oral history collection that records firsthand accounts from more than 400 of the movement’s courageous followers and celebrated leaders.
Alexis M. Herman – At the age of 29, an appointment by President Jimmy Carter made her the youngest director of the Women’s Bureau in the history of the Labor Department. In 1997, she was sworn in as the first African American ever to lead the United States Department of Labor, where under her tenure, unemployment in the country reached a 30-year low and the nation witnessed the safest workplace record in the history of the department.
Amelia Boynton Robinson – She was a leader in the civil rights movement and a key figure in the 1965 march that became known as Bloody Sunday. Her efforts and work with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. were instrumental in leading to the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Arthur Shores – Called “Alabama’s Drum Major for Justice”, he became one of the most successful African American and civil rights attorneys in Alabama and the nation. His landmark case, Lucy v. Adams, opened the doors at the University of Alabama for all African Americans. The case was heard by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1955, and the Court’s decision struck down the University of Alabama’s policy of denying admission based solely on race or color.
Richard Arrington – In 1979, he was elected as Birmingham’s first African American mayor and served as the chief executive of Alabama’s largest city for 20 years. He was at the helm of the city’s transition to the most-diversified economy in the southeast – an economy now led by biomedical research and health care, telecommunications, engineering, and banking. When he left office in 1999, the city had a record number of jobs and the lowest unemployment rate in its history.
Henry Panion – As a producer, composer, arranger, and orchestrator, his work has produced two Grammy Awards, two Dove Awards, and a host of other national music awards and nominations. He is most known for his work as conductor and arranger for superstar Stevie Wonder, for whose performances and recordings he has led many of the world’s most notable orchestras. He made history by topping the Billboard charts on both the Gospel and Classical Crossover Charts simultaneously.
Dinah Washington – Known as the “Queen of the Blues,” she became the most popular African American female recording artist of the decade with a string of hits during the 1950s. Her talents landed her performances at the most prestigious national and international jazz festivals and a royal performance at the London Palladium. From 1948 to 1955, she produced 27 Top Ten hits on the R&B charts and earned a Grammy for best Rhythm & Blues Performance.
Primary partners on the History Calendar project are Fox 6 WBRC, Alabama State Department of Education, Alabama State University, Alabama Learning Exchange, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and The Birmingham Times.
The act of giving is important throughout the year, but giving peaks in significance during the holiday season. The City of Birmingham’s Division of Youth Services (DYS) created the Youth First Holiday Campaign to help create happy holiday memories for hundreds of less-fortunate Birmingham youth.
Kicking off in November 2013, the campaign consists of three major components:
YOUTH FIRST CBS42 HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE
November 1, 2013 – December 13, 2013
8:30a.m. – 4:30p.m. (Monday – Friday)
You can help us serve Birmingham youth this holiday season. Public donations of new, unwrapped gifts will be accepted at the DYS office located at 1608 7th Avenue North for the duration of the donation drive. Donations can also be made at any America’s First Credit Union location.
HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY APPLICATION DATE
November 6, 2013
**9:00a.m. until capacity is reached**
Applications will be accepted at the DYS office located at 1608 – 7th Avenue North in downtown Birmingham.
(Special Note: DYS collaborates with other local organizations that provide holiday assistance. We do this to avoid duplication of service. If your child(ren) will be receiving assistance through another program, please leave the DYS application process open for other youth who have not yet received help for the holidays.)
“STEP IN THE NAME OF LOVE” EXTRAVAGANZA
Friday, November 22, 2013 | 7p.m. – 9p.m.
Boutwell Auditorium
FREE ADMISSION! One nonperishable food item or one new, unwrapped gift will get you in to see some of the most dynamic step and
dance teams in our region!
For more information about the 2013 Youth First Holiday Campaign,
call DYS at 205-320-0879.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization
(CACAO) announced today, that His Excellency Dr. Neil Parsan, Ambassador of Trinidad and Tobago will be attending the Organization’s 3rd Annual Christmas Dinner Dance, December 14th at the Perimeter Hilton.
Given it’s vast resources to include oil and natural gas, the Republic of Trinidad is a true Caribbean success story, as evidenced by their recently unveiled plans to solicit bids from construction and design companies in its sister city Atlanta, Georgia, to create design guidelines for Piarco International Airport in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
According to CACAO President, Pauline Ford-Caesar: “We are gratified that the Ambassador accepted our invitation to visit Birmingham, as this is exactly the type of relationship where CACAO can play a significant role, especially since we now have a representation on the Birmingham Sister Cities Commission.”
Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization was formed in 2011 with the two-fold mission of being a resource for Caribbean students attending school in Alabama and to share the culture of the region. To date they have hosted several successful events to include the June 15th Caribbean Festival at the Boutwell Auditorium.
In addition to being the special guest at the dinner, while in Birmingham the Ambassador will also visit the UAB School of Business where Dr. Eric Jack a native of Trinidad, serves as Dean. Visits to the historic 16th Street Baptist Church, Kelly Ingram Park and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute are also planned.
Tickets for the dinner dance are $50 per person and can be purchased by calling 205-478-1013, 205-542-5279 or 205-568-7118. A meet and greet reception at 6:30pm will precede the dinner.
The Inaugural State of Alabama-Miss Black USA Scholarship Pageant-Director’s Committee Luncheon will be held on November 7th, 11:30am at the Historic Arlington House in Birmingham, Al. The speaker is The Honorable Judge Helen Shores Lee. Our theme for the 2013 luncheon is:
50 DAYS FORWARD INTO A FUTURE OF FAVOR
The Director’s Committee is The “ASPIRATION” of the State of Alabama’s scholarship pageant competition. The committee members are heads of organizations, judges, legislators, corporate leaders and other accomplished women who have reached notable milestones and pinnacles in their various areas of expertise.
It is the very presence of the DIRECTOR’S COMMITTEE members and their stories, that will make a difference in the futures of the 50 young women from the state of Alabama, who will be seeking the national title of MISS BLACK USA.
This year the event to crown the ALABAMA QUEEN, will be held in Birmingham, Ala. December 29th, 5pm, at the Boutwell Auditorium. The Mayor’s office and the City of Birmingham is a key supporter. For pageant registration information contact Clarissa Lester-Kenty, Director at the MISS BLACK ALABAMA USA SCHOLARSHIP PAGEANT, Post Office 11209 Birmingham, Alabama, 35202, Office: 205.727.8779.
For Volunteer information or to participate in PAGEANT PRINCESS FUNDRAISER WEEK, contact Valerie L. Jones, Assistant Director at (205) 354-3480.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Keith Granger, President & CEO of Trinity Medical Center, was a keynote speaker at the Studer Group’s 11th annual What’s Right in Health Care conference held in Atlanta, Ga. Granger’s topic was “Elevating Results through Systems, Processes and Accountability.”
More than 1,200 health professionals and leaders attended the conference designed to share best practices, tools, and step-by-step tactics that will help an organization achieve and sustain clinical, service and operational excellence.
Granger was asked to share the story of how Trinity Medical Center, in a short period of time, has achieved top-tier rankings for quality initiatives and patient experience. He was the only hospital CEO to serve as a keynote speaker.
BSC Department of Theatre to stage Company
