August 27th marks the street date for the release of clarinetist and composer Waclaw Zimpel and his quartet’s recording, Stone Fog. Setting new boundaries through music, Waclaw Zimpel is a vital force when it comes to marrying classical, jazz, and improvisational chamber music.
Waclaw Zimpel has developed an exclusive style of music. It states in his press release that “The Waclaw Zimpel Quartet is the meeting of four musical personalities with a common musical background. Everyone is in search of the deep dimension in music. In this respect, the four musicians create expansive compositions, large sacral soundscapes and an imaginary chamber music atmosphere. Four musicians with fascinating similar approaches and the same European musical roots create a novel-contemporary music with transcendental beauty, modern and archaic at the same time. Klaus Kugel shines with his generous and energetic game that sometimes recalls liturgical music. Christian Ramond on bass interacts in a perfect way with abstract Kugel’s and intuitive rhythms. Krzysztof Dys, inspired by Prokofiev and Scriabin, continues with Waclaw Zimpels lyrical virtuosity and ethnic game apart in the clarinet to bring you simply a beautiful recording.” With a profound sound such as this, it is no mystery that his future is bright.
Track listing includes “Cold Blue Sky”, “Old Feet Feel Out Of Path”, “A Sudden Shift Missed”, “As The Moon Dips In Nettles”, “Hundreds Of Wings Steel The Sun”, “River Willows Sway”, “One Side Of My Face Is Colder Than The Other” and the title track – “Stone Fog.” Waclaw Zimpel is a native of Poland. He received classical training as a clarinetist and has since made quite the name for himself in the Poland Jazz scene. Ken Vandermark, Bobby Few, Joe McPhee, Steve Cohn, Mikolaj Trzaska, Tim Daisy, Steve Swell, Dave Rempis, Raphael Roginski are just a few of the numerous talents he was worked with. Additionally, Waclaw Zimpel was the first Polish musician in history to be awarded the Best New Release 2010 – Honorable Mention for his album Undivided Passion by All About Jazz.
Terry McMillan has returned with yet another in- your-face lively cast of characters in her upcoming novel. Who Asked You, her eighth tome, is set to hit retail on September 17th. Fast-paced, pure drama, peppered with just the right amount of humor, Who Asked You is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to dealing with the everyday stress that family can bring. It is wonderful!
It is known that Terry McMillan has the gift of writing profound novels that tell it like it is. Getting To Happy, Waiting To Exhale and How Stella Got Her Groove Back are just a few of her titles that have earned her the number 1 New York Times Bestselling author. This tradition is set to continue with her latest as she touches on topics such as addictions, illness, homosexuality and few others that family can sometimes set on your doorstep.
Betty Jean is the family matriarch who is caring for her terminally ill husband while working in the hotel room service industry. Although, she can soon retire, a storm has hit that will likely unsettle her plans. Betty Jean has the task of raising her two young grandsons since her daughter is on drugs again. Dexter, Betty Jean’s son, has moved back home since he got out of prison with his own agenda.
With so much happening Betty Jean could use some help but she knows it will not be coming from her oldest son, Quentin or her middle class sisters Venetia and Arlene. Quentin is a doctor who detests the hood and everything it represents. He occupies his free time by succumbing to numerous failed marriages to Caucasian women. Venetia just spews biblical notations while Arlene is conceited. The only thing they offer are opinions that are not needed.
Addressing all the elements that are found in today’s society, Who Asked You presents the perfect story of loving the hardest people you’ll ever encounter – family. NAACP Image Award Winner Terry McMillan will be in Birmingham, Ala. at the Books-A-Million in Brookwood Village on October 4th.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The nation’s capital, home to the first African American President and First Lady set the stage for the crowning of Miss Black USA 2013. Leading ladies across 30 states faced off for the coveted prize where the distinguished panel of judges chose Miss Black North Carolina, Amanda McCoy as Miss Black USA 2013.
Former Miss Black USA, Kalilah Allen-Harris, M.D. and R&B Recording Arts Brian Christopher, hosted the historical event.
Immediately upon being crowned, reporters asked Miss Black USA what was the first thing she planned to do with her new title. She responded, I want to go see the Broadway show “The Trip to Bountiful featuring Cicely Tyson, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Vanessa Williams.
Amanda McCoy is a 21 year-old from Raleigh, North Carolina and is a senior Communications major at University of North Carolina, Charlotte. Final Results:
First Runner Up: Miss Black Minnesota, Krystle Igbo, will assume the duties of Miss Black USA if for some reason Miss Black USA cannot fulfil her duties
Second Runner Up: Miss Black Tennessee USA, Katara Grissom
Third Runner Up: Miss Black Illinois USA, Cortnee Smith
Fourth Runner Up: Miss Black Virginia USA, Natasha Stovall Rest of Top Fifteen: Miss Black Alabama USA, Brittney Jones; Miss Black Arkansas USA, Tiara Jones;
Miss Black District of Columbia USA, Tecoya Gordon; Miss Black Florida USA,
Domonique Cooper;
Miss Black Georgia USA, Jordan Riles; Miss Black Maryland USA, Alexandra Morton;
Miss Black New Jersey USA, Kandice Chavous;
Miss Black Oklahoma USA, Danielle Payne;
Miss Black Rhode Island, Amber Clark; Miss Black Texas USA, Dymond Hayes
The Miss Black USA 2013 prize package includes: a trip to Africa courtesy of Arik International Airlines, a $5,000 academic scholarship, a year supply of cosmetics from Etniq Cosmetics, an assortment of high fashion jewelry from Marissa del Rosario, and scholarship to New York Conservatory, School for Television and Film and VIP access to her favorite broadway show “The Trip to Bountiful!” Sponsors of this year’s event include: Arik Air, Righteous Denim, Etniq Cosmetics, Marissa Del Rosario, Author Terri Woods, The Primp Agency, New York Conservatory, Extra Shade, Blessed 24:7, First Priority Trailways, Heart and Soul, Washington Afro. The Miss Black USA competition is the premier pageant for women of color. The pageant was founded in 1987 by Karen Arrington to provide a national platform for young women to display their talents and win scholarship opportunities. To date, the pageant has awarded over $300,000 in scholarship to deserving young women. The winner of the pageant serves as a celebrity advocate for the Heart Truth campaign to raise awareness of heart disease, the #1 killer of women.
I am avid Jeep lover! So when I was delivered a one-week test drive with the Patriot Limited, it made life a little easier.
It’s easier for seating, traveling with elderly people and children. Now, I am a busy mother of three, and also transport my mother on a daily basis while running errands. There’s nothing like the adventure of good conversations while driving with these group of people. Most seniors have a hard time with entering and exiting the car, but my mother didn’t need any assistance with travel when it came to the Patriot.
Thanks Patriot for looking out for the more mature audience.
Technically speaking, the 2014 Jeep Patriot receives a newly optional six-speed automatic transmission. Front-side airbags are now standard rather than optional.
My $26,055 tester is a compact crossover SUV that seats five people. It is available in Sport, Latitude and Limited trim levels.
The base Sport level is sparsely equipped with standard 16-inch steel wheels, roof rails, foglights, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a tilt-only steering wheel, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. The optional Power Value Group adds full power accessories, heated mirrors, keyless entry and additional body-color exterior pieces. Air-conditioning and 17-inch alloy wheels are also optional.
The Latitude gets the above features as standard, plus a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver seat, heated front seats, a fold-flat front passenger seat and steering-wheel audio controls.
My tester, the Limited, adds automatic climate control, rear disc brakes (versus rear drum brakes), upgraded exterior trim, leather upholstery, a six-way power driver seat (plus manual lumbar adjustment), a six-CD changer and a trip computer.
The Latitude and Limited are eligible for several option packages. The Sun and Sound Group adds a sunroof and a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics sound system (with two drop-down lift-gate speakers) and satellite radio. The Security and Cargo Convenience Group adds adjustable roof rail crossbars, remote ignition, a tire pressure monitor display, a cargo cover, Bluetooth, a USB audio jack and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. A 6.5-inch touchscreen audio interface that includes digital music storage is also available, and on Limited models, it can be equipped with a navigation system as well.
All-wheel-drive models, regardless of trim, can be equipped with the Freedom-Drive II Off-Road Group. This includes an enhanced four-wheel-drive system, all-terrain tires, a full-size spare tire, hill descent control, tow hooks, skid plates and, on the Sport, a height-adjustable driver seat.
When equipped with standard front-wheel drive, the 2014 Jeep Patriot Sport and Latitude are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 141 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional.
EPA-estimated fuel economy with front-wheel drive and the six-speed automatic is 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.The manual version does slightly better with mpg ratings of 23/28/25.
Optional on the front-drive Sport and Latitude is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 172 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque. This engine is standard on all-wheel-drive models and all Patriot Limited models. You can choose between the five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission. The optional Freedom-Drive II Group provides a more serious four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing and hill descent control, but requires that you also select the available continuously variable transmission (CVT).
EPA-estimated fuel economy with the 2.4-liter engine, the five-speed manual and all-wheel drive stands at 23/28/25. Picking the automatic drops these numbers to 21/27/23. With the CVT, fuel comes in at 20/23/21.
In Edmunds performance testing, a Patriot Limited with Freedom-Drive II and the CVT needed a lengthy 10.3 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph: one of the slowest times of any small crossover SUV.
On the safety side, the 2014 Jeep Patriot comes standard with antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum), traction and stability control, and full-length side curtain airbags. The Limited gets rear disc brakes. Front side airbags were optional last year but are now standard across all Patriot trim levels.
In government crash testing, last year’s Patriot earned an overall rating of four out of five stars, with three stars for total frontal-impact protection and five stars for side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Patriot the highest possible rating of “Good” in the frontal-offset, side-impact (with the side airbags) and roof strength tests.
At first glance, the Patriot’s interior looks nice enough, if a little utilitarian. Large, easy-to-read gauges and user-friendly controls are at least in keeping with Jeep’s off-road heritage, though the available touchscreen electronics interface is antiquated, as it lags behind competitors’ systems in both ease of use and smartphone-integration features. It’s a little complicated when trying to pair phones; however, I figured it out with its voice recognition tutorial. There are a couple of clever features such as the cargo area lamp that pops out to become a rechargeable LED flashlight and the optional Boston Acoustics speakers that flip down from the raised liftgate to provide tunes for your next tailgate party. You’d better not plan to bring a lot to that party, though. With just 23 cubic feet of space behind the 60/40-split rear seats and 53.5 cubic feet with both sections folded down, the cargo area is significantly smaller than that of most crossover SUV competitors, save for the Sportage. The Escape offers 68.1 cubic feet of capacity, while the Honda CR-V has more than 70 cubic feet of cargo volume.
Until next week, buckle up, drive safe, don’t text and drive and enjoy life.
ALL MY CHILDREN
When Brooke got the diamond necklace from the auction, she assumed that Adam placed the winning bid for them. She was stunned when she discovered that Dimitri actually bought the necklace for her. JR was supportive of Colby when she trashed Adam. AJ was horrified when he discovered JR was still using drugs. JR tried to explain, but AJ wanted nothing to do with him. Angie tried to be supportive of Dixie when she got melancholy and wished that Tad was with her to figure out a way to deal with JR’s problems. Oliver was taken to the hospital when he had a seizure. David and Anders determined that Oliver’s problems stemmed from an allergy to peanuts. Heather tried to talk Celia into giving Pete another chance, but all Heather can think of is the way she felt when she kissed AJ. She firmly believed that they were destined to be together. THIS WEEK: Celia has a disturbing dream. Brooke feels conflicted about Dimitri.
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
The decision was left up to Eric when Thorne and Thomas demanded a regime change, ousting Rick as president of Forrester Creations. After reviewing the recent sales numbers, Eric made his decision. Trying to help Caroline with her desire to reunite with Rick, Rafael encouraged Carter to pursue Maya. When Caroline’s request to spend the evening with Rick was denied, she told him about Maya’s night with Carter. Caroline wondered whether or not telling Rick about Maya will work in her favor or backfire on her. In complete disbelief, Rick interrogated Maya about the night that she spent with Carter. When Maya revealed the truth, Rick was unsure if he could continue a relationship with her. Rafael schemed to seal the deal between Maya and Carter. Liam presented Hope with a very special gift to commemorate the rebranding of Hope for the Future. Brooke and Bill made a monumental announcement to Hope and Liam about what the future holds for their families. When Katie and Wyatt met for the first time, she filled him in on her side of the war with Bill. Rick wondered what happened the night before between him and Caroline when he woke up to seeing her wearing his shirt. Maya arrived at Rick’s house to apologize and found that Caroline spent the night. When Bill arrived at the Spencer Publication building, he noticed that many changes have been made since his departure. Maya went to Rick to confront him about how quickly he turned to Caroline following their fight. Having been unaware of all the misdeeds that Bill has done, Wyatt became fired up with disdain for his father, all thanks to Katie. Rick had a difficult time keeping his mind off of Maya while rebuilding a relationship with Caroline. Tensions rose as Brooke paid a visit to Katie with an attempt to mend their broken family. Bill was caught off-guard when the confrontation between him and Wyatt became physical. Wyatt learned of the consequence of crossing the almighty Bill Spencer. THIS WEEK: Wyatt goes on offense. Maya seeks out Rick to clear the air.
DAYS OF OUR LIVES
JJ eviscerated his mother after finding Jennifer kissing Daniel. He called her a liar – and much worse. Later, Daniel and Jennifer had a heated argument over the way she’s handling her son. Sami went over the special prosecutor’s deal with Justin. He couldn’t believe she’s even considering it, but Sami was sure she and EJ could walk away scot free. Justin warned this could seriously backfire, and she and EJ could both end up in prison. Will and Gabi got into a huge fight when he discovered she’s been hanging out with Nick. Daniel questioned Kristen when she accidentally admitted she has a secret. Meanwhile, Eric had a very disturbing dream. Earlier, Nicole and Eric bonded over a tragic death. Gabi blasted Sonny and Will for trying to run her life. Sami made a decision regarding the special prosecutor’s plea bargain. Eric reeled over his unsettling dream, trying to figure out what it meant. JJ presented Jennifer with a difficult choice. Abigail demanded to know why Cameron was pushing her into Chad’s arms. EJ feared he may have ruined Sami’s case. Later, Sami told him about her shocking decision. Brady once again proposed to Kristen! Jennifer was heartbroken when Daniel finally decided to end things with her. Theresa and JJ bonded over their family troubles. Cameron made a clean break with Abigail – and Chad quickly used it to his advantage. EJ tried to warn Sami she’s making a terrible mistake. Eric had another disturbing dream. Kristen happily accepted Brady’s proposal. Meanwhile, Marlena tried to get the dirt on her rival. Sonny made amends with Gabi… but a surprising discovery ruined their short-lived truce. THIS WEEK: Daniel and Jennifer have a heated argument. Brady has an important question for Kristen.
GENERAL HOSPITAL
Derek started to remember his past. AJ returned home to find Michael who had been trying to find him all night. Dante and Lulu found Spinelli and Ellie arguing, and Spinelli lied to them about the reason for their dispute. Olivia had a vision of Connie shot and dying while she was in the elevator. Sonny found Connie shot and bleeding on the floor. They shared their true feelings about each other in her final moments. Sonny wanted revenge. Franco was up on the roof looking as if he was about to jump off. Ellie went up there for air after her argument with Spinelli. Franco recommended that she actually jump off for what she had done. Morgan learned Michael and Kiki have been talking. Dante told Michael he was looking for AJ because he felt he’s connected to Connie’s murder. They both realized Sonny was probably after AJ as well. They rushed to find Sonny holding a gun pointed at AJ. AJ was interrogated by Dante and Anna. AJ told them he does not own a gun but remembered that Tracy does…AJ wondered if he was responsible for killing Connie – he couldn’t remember, but it did seem to add up. Felix told Sabrina and Patrick that Britt’s missing…however Britt’s with Nikolas who bailed her out of jail. Derek wanted to tell Sam and everyone the truth. Maxie kept having nightmares that her baby’s being taken away from her. TJ, spending the day with Taylor, asked Molly if she wants to get back together. Molly told him she does, leaving Taylor and Rafe looking on plotting. Diane told AJ not to confess. They did not have a weapon so they cannot really accuse him of anything. Ava told Kiki and Morgan about AJ and Connie’s death. Kiki left on the excuse she’s going to see Franco. Maxie started to breastfeed the baby but was interrupted by Spinelli – they started to argue. Dante and Lulu arrived at the hospital and were shocked when the nurse told them the baby was being breastfed. They both freaked out – and as they went to confront Maxie in her hotel room – they overheard Maxie and Spinelli in the midst of an argument. THIS WEEK: Britt confesses to Patrick – and tells him the name. Felix and Brad have a moment – interrupted by Patrick.
ONE LIFE TO LIVE
Clint flipped out at the Shelter gala. Viki tried to calm him down, but he was out of control. He finally has to be carried out of there on a stretcher. Natalie was appalled that Clint was humiliated in this way and followed the ambulance to the psych ward to support him. Cutter was furious that Diego was paid off by Clint to crash the gala. Jeffrey had the task of doing a story on the gala and the scene Clint made. Viki questioned Blair about why she was crying. Did it have anything to do with Todd? Jack and Kate shared a kiss. Dani and Arturo fell into bed together. Natalie was horrified when she discovered Allison Perkins in Clint’s room. Matthew was bummed out and Michelle tried to elevate his mood. Jack wanted to know what was bothering Blair, but she wouldn’t confide in him. THIS WEEK: Blair has a tough time keeping her composure. Michelle is able to get to Matthew on a new level.
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
The news of Katherine’s death spread throughout Genoa City. Nikki and Jill met up to discuss plans for a fitting memorial to honor Katherine. Later, Nikki received an important letter from Katherine. Meanwhile, Victor told Victoria that he’s going to make sure that Jack’s never a father to Summer. A frustrated Victoria told Victor that she and Billy were back together. Tyler told Devon he would come back to Jabot if he hired Noah as his photographer. Later, Devon asked Summer if she’s ready to come back to work. Billy told Victoria that he wants to start trying again to have a baby. When Victoria told him that she stopped taking the fertility treatments, Billy said they can try the old fashioned way. Neil worked to find Rose’s daughter and learned that she used to call a Wisconsin phone number frequently. Kevin told Neil that he would find out the name and address that went with it. Kevin traced the number to a corporate cell phone registered to Newman Enterprises. Meanwhile, Lily told Devon that Hilary was after something. Esther gave Jill a sealed envelope from Katherine. Esther left Jill alone as she poured over the details of her letter from Katherine. As Jill looked at a photo of Katherine, she got an idea. Jill moved a picture on the wall, revealing a safe. Jill and Esther argued over whether or not Kay would want Jill to have the combination to the safe. Adam told Victor that Newman Enterprises should take over Chancellor Industries. When Adam suggested that it’s what Katherine would want, Victor said he has no idea what she would want. Victor declared that he would not dance on his friend’s grave. Billy worked to rebuild a bookcase for Victoria and enlisted Delia to be his assistant. When Chloe came to pick up Delia, Billy hit his thumb with the hammer. Delia said that Billy’s thumb won’t be better until Chloe kissed it. Chloe jokingly honored Delia’s request just as Victoria came back home. When Lauren had a nightmare of Carmine standing over her, Michael tried to comfort her. Alex got a lead that Carmine rented an apartment in Chicago, but Kevin thought it’s a set-up. Meanwhile, Carmine planned his next move against Michael and Lauren. Sharon explained to Faith that Nick was going to marry Avery and she needed to accept that. Faith didn’t think Avery could make him happy the way Sharon can. THIS WEEK: Adam tells Jack that he wonders if it is time to cut his losses and leave Genoa City. Sharon tells Nick that she appreciates his friendship and isn’t asking for anything more.
America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) System has been awarded a $2,500 grant to host a 12-week program series featuring documentary film screenings, scholar-led discussions and performances of twentieth-century American popular music. The “America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway” series will enlighten audiences about uniquely American musical genres including blues and gospel, Broadway, jazz, bluegrass and country, rock n’ roll, mambo, and hip hop. BPL is one of 50 sites nationwide selected to host this program series. “America’s Music” is a project by the Tribeca Film Institute in collaboration with the American Library Association, Tribeca Flashpoint, and the Society for American Music. “America’s Music” has been made possible by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the Human Endeavor.
“We are thrilled to participate in this exciting program that will help introduce different types of music, show how modern music has been influenced by older styles, and bridge gaps among generations” said Birmingham Public Library’s Director Renee Blalock. Programming for the series began Saturday, August 10 and runs through September 26. The Alabama Blues Women—featuring Debbie Bond, SharBaby, and Elnora Spencer—performed August 22 in the Atrium of the Central Library. All programs are free, open to the public and take place at various library locations in the City. For program details or to obtain copies of program materials, please visit www.bplonline.org or contact Sandi Lee at (205) 226-3742 or by e-mail atslee@bham.lib.al.us.
EXHIBITION AND PROGRAM SCHEDULE
EXHIBITION
Red, Hot and Blue: A Spotlight on Alabama Blues Women
Central Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
First Floor East Building
Now – September 6 (Available during regular hours of operation)
Red, Hot and Blue: Spotlight on Alabama Blues Women
Five Points West Regional Branch Library, 4812 Avenue W., Birmingham, AL 35208
September 9 – October 4 (Available during regular hours of operation)
This exhibition is a collection of oversized posters. In 2005 the Alabama Blues Project launched a traveling exhibition on Alabama blues women called Red, Hot and Blue: A Spotlight on Alabama Blues Women. The exhibition includes beautiful text panels featuring Dinah Washington, Big Mama Thornton, Lucille Bogan, Coot Grant, Odetta, Lil Greenwood, and Vera Hall. The Alabama Blues Project’s mission is to preserve and promote Alabama blues.
PROGRAMS AND PERFORMANCES
Swing Jazz: Film/Discussion Series
Springville Road Regional Branch Library, 1224 Springville Road, Birmingham, AL 35215
Saturday, September 7, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dr. Steve Roberts will serve as the discussion facilitator. Jazz reached the height of its popularity with the American public during the swing era, beginning in the dark days of the Depression and continuing through the victorious end of World War II. Also known as the Big Band sound, swing jazz was characterized by its strong rhythmic drive and by an orchestral ‘call and response’ between different sections of the ensemble. By performing their music with increasingly complex arrangements for ever larger orchestras, Swing musicians helped erode the wall between our definitions of popular music and the art music generally labeled “classical.”
Tuxedo Junction: Alabama Contribute to American Jazz—A Discussion
Smithfield Branch Library, #1 Eighth Avenue West, Birmingham, AL 35204
Thursday, September 12, 10 a.m.
Karen Utz, Curator at Sloss Furnaces, will serve as the discussion facilitator. Albert Murray, a native of Alabama and a professor of English at Tuskegee Institute, wrote the following while preparing a lecture on the emotional appeal of jazz: “Jazz is a music played by Americans to get rid of the blues….when You see a jazz musician playing, you’re looking at a pioneer, and You’re looking at an explorer; you’re looking at an experimenter, You’re looking at a scientist; you’re looking at all those things Because it’s the creative process come to life.” And many of the jazz musicians responsible for bringing this creative process to life often played at Birmingham’s own Tuxedo Junction. For almost 30 years Tuxedo Junction’s strip served as the social and entertainment Mecca for African-Americans in the Birmingham area. In 1930, Erskine Hawkins, Birmingham native and renowned trumpet player and big band leader, wrote the song “Tuxedo Junction” which celebrated and eventually immortalized his childhood community. Jazz pieces performed by the Alabama great will be played throughout the presentation.
Doc: The Story of a Birmingham Jazz Man—Talk, Performance and Book Signing
Arrington Auditorium of the Central Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
Tuesday, September 10, 6:30 p.m.
Doc: The Story of a Birmingham Jazz Man—Talk, Performance and Book Signing
North Birmingham Regional Branch Library, 2501 31st Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35207
Tuesday, September 17, 6:30 p.m.
Dr. Frank Adams and co-author Burgin Mathews will lead this performance and discussion. Doc is the autobiography of jazz elder statesman Frank “Doc” Adams, highlighting his role in Birmingham, Alabama’s historic jazz scene and tracing his personal adventure that parallels, in many ways, the story and spirit of jazz itself. Doc tells the story of an accomplished jazz master, from his musical apprenticeship under John T. “Fess” Whatley and his time touring with Sun Ra and Duke Ellington to his own inspiring work as an educator and bandleader. Central to this narrative is the often-overlooked story of Birmingham’s unique jazz tradition and community. From the very beginnings of jazz, Birmingham was home to an active network of jazz practitioners and a remarkable system of jazz apprenticeship rooted in the city’s segregated schools. Birmingham musicians spread across the country to populate the sidelines of the nation’s best known bands. Local musicians, like Erskine Hawkins and members of his celebrated orchestra, returned home heroes. Frank “Doc” Adams explores, through first-hand experience, the history of this community, introducing readers to a large and colorful cast of characters— including “Fess” Whatley, the legendary “maker of musicians” who trained legions of Birmingham players and made a significant mark on the larger history of jazz. Adams’s interactions with the young Sun Ra, meanwhile, reveals life-changing lessons from one of American music’s most innovative personalities.
Country and Blue Grass: Film/Discussion Series
Avondale Regional Branch Library, 509 South 40th Street, Birmingham, AL 35222
Saturday, September 21, 2013 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Dr. Steven Roberts will serve as the discussion facilitator. Bluegrass is generally considered a sub-genre of country music that developed in the second half of the 20th century. Although for purposes of radio airplay, bluegrass songs were programmed on country music stations beginning in the late 1940s, bluegrass as a musical form did not develop directly out of the generation of recorded commercial country music that preceded it. Rather, the two forms share the same roots in the traditional music of the Appalachian region and the Irish and Scottish ballads that informed it.
Act of Congress: In Concert—Bluegrass/Newgrass
Atrium of the Central Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
Thursday, September 26, 2013 6:30 p.m. “A few weeks ago, I was browsing around on Noisetrade (see Noisetrade- A Useful Tool For Bluegrass Artists), and stumbled upon a band called Act Of Congress. The name caught my eye, and the music captured my attention. While this Alabama group doesn’t play straight bluegrass, their music does incorporate many elements of what we love about Big Mon’s legacy. I had the pleasure of talking with founding member and guitarist, Chris Griffin, about the group Dave Higgs of Nashville Public Radio calls “one of the freshest sounding, exuberant bands in all of the known acoustic universe.” I definitely recommend this new acoustic group. The extreme talent exhibited by these young adults cannot be overstated. Their original music is uniquely their own, and features elements of various forms of music, including bluegrass.”
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – School’s back and with it comes the need to buckle down to study. All work and no play, though, can dull the senses, and University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) experts recommend after-school play to help kids blow off steam and explore their creative side.
“Studies show that extracurricular activity has positive associations correlated to school attachment, school completion/graduation and grade-point average,” said Sandra Sims, Ph.D., associate professor of human studies in the UAB School of Education.
“It has a positive effect on children and can increase self-confidence, promote responsibility, encourage kids to work as a team, provide an opportunity for new friendships and plant the seed for a life-long hobby or future career,” said Kimberly Kirklin, director of ArtPlay, the education and outreach initiative of UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center.
There are many options from which to choose — team sports to ballet — with benefits aplenty.
“Besides the health benefits of exercise, research shows that physical activity can enhance mental clarity through the increase of blood flow and oxygen to the brain and improve academic achievement,” Sims said.
Experts suggest these things to consider when selecting activities:
• Get them moving. “Extracurricular activities that involve aerobic activity and muscular strength such as recreational sport teams are an excellent choice,” Sims said. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children and adolescents should be active 60 minutes or more each day; most of these minutes should be aerobic activity.
“Our bodies were designed to move and play, we just need to find activities that they enjoy,” Sims said.
• Make it fun. “The main focus is to find an activity that your child enjoys,” Sims said. “You don’t want your kid going to an activity kicking and screaming. It should be a pleasure, not a pain.”
• Start at home. Instead of trucking over to a facility, you can have after-school fun at home. “Walking, biking and hiking are inexpensive activities that can be great for the whole family,” Sims said.
• Go solo. “Team sports are not for all children; however, they are an excellent choice for children who enjoy them,” Sims said. “Individual sports also are a great choice. Swimming, tennis and gymnastics are offered in many communities and are a great alternative to team sports.”
• Find the inner artist. “The arts provide opportunities for children of all ages, personalities and abilities,” Kirklin said. “A more outgoing, athletic student may enjoy hip hop or modern dance classes or acting. A child who might prefer to work more independently could take a music class, visual art or creative writing.”
• Don’t go in debt. “Don’t let money be a deterrent to exploring opportunities for your child,” Kirklin said. Many organizations, such as ArtPlay, offer financial assistance to ensure children can have access to quality arts experiences. For more information, visit www.ArtPlayASC.org or call 205-975-4769.
• Don’t overdo it. “Balance is the key,” Sims said. “Overscheduling after-school hours with activities may cause burnout and fatigue. Don’t push children until they lose the joy of playing and competing.”
Previously Announced Celebrity Participants for Bishop T.D. Jakes’ Three-Day Festival Include Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Hudson, Anthony Mackie, Steve Harvey, Vickie Winans, Brandy, Tamar Braxton, Kierra Sheard, Cedric “The Entertainer,” Mary Mary, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Niecy Nash, Holly Robinson Peete, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Ray Chew, Kim Burrell and More
WHAT:
MegaFest, the three-day family festival hosted by Bishop T.D. Jakes, announced star-studded additions to its inspirational entertainment line-up featuring top celebrities from music, film, television, comedy and sports.
Soledad O’Brien will host a world premiere screening of critically acclaimed multi-part documentary series “Black In America 6,” Thursday, August 29th at noon. Jennifer Hudson will perform at MegaFest’s Woman of Purpose Concert, and will also conduct a Q&A session after the screening of her next film, “Winnie Mandela,”slated for wide release on September 6, during the inaugural International Faith & Family Film Festival, held during MegaFest at the Omni Dallas Hotel.
Steve Harvey returns to MegaFest as host of the Woman of Purpose concert. Pop Star and actress Brandy will perform at the concert benefiting Autism Speaks and recognizing two families with autistic children.
MegaFest is slated for August 29-31 in Dallas, offering a series of fun-filled, family friendly activities for all ages and interests that include: Oprah’s Lifeclass, the inaugural International Faith & Family Film Festival; Just Churchin’ Comedy Show,Woman of Purpose Concert and the Ball Up Streetball Classic Tour Championship; as well as a full slate of empowerment programming.
WHO: Bishop T.D. Jakes, Oprah Winfrey, Kerry Washington, Soledad O’Brien, Meagan Good, Michelle Williams, Jennifer Hudson, Steve Harvey, Cedric “The Entertainer,” Anthony Mackie, Vickie Winans, Babyface, Mary Mary, Niecy Nash, Holly Robinson Peete, Tisha Campbell Martin, Boris Kodjoe & Nicole Ari Parker, Brandy, Tamar Braxton, DeVon Franklin, Jacob Lattimore, Ben and Jewel Tankard, Smokie Norful, Kierra Sheard, Tye Tribbett, Mali Music, David Mann,Emmitt & Pat Smith and more to be announced.
WHEN:
MegaFest begins Thursday, August 29 and continues through Saturday, August 31.
WHERE: American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, TX 75219
Woman Thou Art Loosed
Woman of Purpose Concert
Oprah’s Lifeclass
Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Griffin Street, Dallas, TX 75202
ManPower
MegaYouth
MegaKidz
Empowerment Series Sessions
Ball Up Championship Game & Celebrity Slam Dunk Competition (in the arena)
Omni Dallas Hotel (Trinity Ballrooms), 555 S. Lamar Street, Dallas, TX 75202
International Faith & Family Film Festival
Just Churchin’ Comedy Show
To see a full list of events with locations and times, please find the full schedule online at http://mega-fest.com/#mega-fest. (Schedule subject to change)
