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Authors & Artists Magazine Vol. 10, Issue 10 Rube & Gina Smith Editor & Publisher
Can’t believe we’re in October! My 13th wedding anniversary and granddaughter’s birthday is coming up fast!
Marketing & Sales Chris Smith Enjoli Hall Amber Smith Richard Hall Shawnda Smith
It’s Hispanic Heritage Month, and we salute the contributions of our Hispanic brothers and sisters to this country.
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We’ve added some new sections and are selling ad space…if you need to promote what you’re doing, get in on it TODAY! We’re booking space fast….and our premier ad rates are reasonable, so DON’T miss out! In this issue we profile our cover artist, Myshel. In my travels around the internet, I’m finding interesting and fascinating talent. Myshel is quite private, but this beautiful, talented artist gave us an exclusive peak into her life. Check it out. Irene Stokes, ―Mama Stokes‖ as she’s affectionately known by the Hollywood community, is sharing her cooking expertise on her new celebrity cooking show, ―Irene Cooking With the Stars.‖ Cheaper to Keep Her, Marriage Material…Do these plays ring a bell? Playwright, JeCaryous Johnson, sat down with AAM to talk about his start, his plays, and his plan to produce more movies. Don’t miss this great interview. This is our BIGGEST issue yet! Let us know your thoughts at AuthorsandArtistsMag@yahoo.com .
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Contents Healing with Words: A Writers Cancer Journey by Diana Raab Healing With Words: A Writer's Cancer Journey is a compassionate and wry self-help memoir written by an award-winning prolific author, nurse and poet, who at the age of fortyseven found her life shattered first by a DCIS (early breast cancer) diagnosis and five years later by another, seemingly unrelated and incurable cancer—multiple myeloma. The book includes the author's experiences, reflections, poetry and journal entries, in addition to writing prompts for readers to express their own personal story. Raab's journals have provided a safe haven and platform to validate and express her feelings. Raab views journaling to be like a daily vitamin— in that it heals, detoxifies and is essential for optimal health.
Publisher’s Message………..Pg. 2 Authors……………………. Pg. 3 Authors on the Rise………...Pg. 5 Cover Story ……………….Pg. 6 Book Profiles……………….Pg. 9 Book Release & Author Signings……………………Pg. 11 Writers Corner……………..Pg. 13 Music …….………………..Pg. 15 Music Review ……………..Pg. 17 Television……………...…..Pg. 19 Performance ….……………Pg. 20 Events…………………...…Pg. 23 Performance………………..Pg. 24 Fashion……………………..Pg. 25 Designer Profile……...…….Pg. 26 Film………………………...Pg. 27 Galleries & Museums…...… Pg.28 Art………….………………Pg. 29 Actors Profile……………. Pg.30 Restaurants & Clubs ……. Pg. 31 Calendar of Events…………Pg. 33
Learn more at www.DianaRaab.com .
Power Thoughts
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By Joyce Meyer
Bestselling author and TV preacher Meyer takes a step beyond her bestseller Battlefield of the Mind. She offers a 12-step program to help readers conquer the negativity that naturally plagues the mind, leaving readers free to enjoy life and pursue their goals. Using themes from other books in her ample catalogue--worry, perseverance, managing emotions--Meyer breaks her suggestions into several digestible lists, backed by a "Power Pack" of Bible verses at the end of each chapter. She offers enthusiastic encouragement, but also requires action, here in the form of practice, discipline, and continual meditation on the 12 motivational thoughts. Critics of the positive thinking movement (Meyer obliquely acknowledges a debt to the pioneering Norman Vincent Peale) will continue to find downsides in this book, among them failure to sufficiently acknowledge the pain of suffering and an ignorance of intractable mental illness. Critics of Meyer will say she sounds like an infomercial ("You will see amazing results"). Yet her many fans will continue to appreciate her upbeat attitude and her ability to offer practical tips on the toughest topics. Purchase your copy at www.amazon.com.
Emma Donoghue Born in Dublin in 1969, Emma Donoghue is a writer of contemporary and historical fiction whose novels include the bestselling Slammerkin, The Sealed Letter, Landing, Life Mask, Hood, and Stirfry. Her story collections are The Woman Who Gave Birth to Rabbits, Kissing the Witch, and Touchy Subjects. She also writes literary history, and plays for stage and radio. She lives in London, Ontario, with her partner and their two small children. For more information, go to www.emmadonoghue.com .
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Room By Emma Donoghue In many ways, Jack is a typical 5-year-old. He likes to read books, watch TV, and play games with his Ma. But Jack is different in a big way--he has lived his entire life in a single room, sharing the tiny space with only his mother and an unnerving nighttime visitor known as Old Nick. For Jack, Room is the only world he knows, but for Ma, it is a prison in which she has tried to craft a normal life for her son. When their insular world suddenly expands beyond the confines of their four walls, the consequences are piercing and extraordinary. Despite its profoundly disturbing premise, Emma Donoghue's Room is rife with moments of hope and beauty, and the dogged determination to live, even in the most desolate circumstances. A stunning and original novel of survival in captivity, readers who enter Room will leave staggered, as though, like Jack, they are seeing the world for the very first time. Available at Amazon.com. Video Interview with Author Emma Donoghue CLICK HERE.
Dr. Billy Ingram Billy Ingram leads a double life that most people don’t know about. By day he is a very polished pastor and by night he is a professional photographer for Getty and WireImages. He has been priviledged to photograph President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama, Bill Clinton, Hilary Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, Denzel Washington, Will Smith, Samuel L. Jackson and the list goes on. He is also an author, actor, educator, poet, percussionist, humanitarian, philanthropist and father. Dr. Ingram is known around the world. He has traveled and trained pastors in London, Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya and the United States. His most magnificent piece of work is ―The Legacy‖, which captures the true essence of black history and even inspired Rosa Parks. While the community celebrates Dr. Ingram’s many achievements, his greatest is being happily married to the lovely and beautiful Solombra Ingram, and they have two miracle twin sons, Samuel and Soloman Ingram. Billy Ingram also has three children from a previous marriage: Billy G. Ingram II, Marian Ingram and Karis Ingram. For more information on Dr. Billy Ingram, visit www.legacyus.com or Facebook @ Dr. Billy Ingram.
An Exclusive Interview with R & B Artist
Myshel Myshel made her debut as a singer at the age of seven. Today she has emerged as a multi-dimensional artist, having penned dozens of insightful songs designed to move the listener. ―Music is a beautiful gift that must be used wisely‖, reveals the Kentucky native. ―It’s too powerful for it not to express something meaningful and honestly speak something beautiful‖. A life filled with culture, her travels abroad with her missionary father and Ghanaian mother who proudly cheered her on as she graced the stage singing in countries such as Trinidad and Tobago, El Salvador, Venezuela, Johannesburg and Ghana. ―The things I saw, the people I met and the lessons I learned have shaped my perspective and deeply impacted my creativity as a singer/songwriter and lover of music. ― She has won several crowns and used the titles to inspire women to look beyond the surface and see the radiant queen inside themselves. She served as Miss Tennessee State U and Miss National Black Hall of fame, Myshel does countless motivational speaking engagements to help inspire. In 2003 Myshel beat out over 2000 hopefuls to win the Atlantis Music Conference songwriting competition. She later worked with Kelly Price, and toured as a background singer for R&B singer Tamia and American Idol’s Mandisa Hundley, Toby Mac and Don Moen. In 2009 Myshel was recognized by Billboard as ―one to watch‖. Myshel is truly a beautiful woman and amazing talent. Thank you for taking the time to speak with Authors & Artists Magazine. AAM: How did you get your start in music? Myshel: I was introduced to a producer after literally praying for God to open doors and bring the people I needed to do what was setting my heart ablaze! Music!! From there I began to meet more and more people. A band was formed, I started doing live shows, and working in the studio. I won a song writing contest, beating out 2000 hopefuls. The media heard about it and things began to pick up speed from there.
I'm not only surviving...I'm becoming ..I'm strong, relentless, focused, anointed, creative, learning from my mistakes, forgiving of myself and others, loving harder than you could ever imagine! - Myshel AAM: Did you always know you wanted to sing? Myshel: Well, yes and no. Growing up, it was my dream to be a singer, but after telling adults that that’s what I wanted to be. I usually got a frown and a concerned look like…‖‖awwh sweetheart…you need to have a ―realistic goal‖ lol…even from some of my family. So I started trying to find a more acceptable and, at the time I thought….attainable goal. I decided I wanted to be a teacher. That answer got me better nods.‖ AAM: You went to Tennessee State University. What was your major and what were your plans? Myshel: I went to TSU and majored in Political Science with a minor in Africana Studies with hopes of teaching at a university level. I love History, Politics and the study of religion. I find it all fascinating? AAM: While you were there, you won Miss TSU. How did that come about? Myshel: I ran for the title of Miss Tennessee State University during my last year. Anyone who is familiar with TSU knows…that’s a Big Deal on campus and I had to work hard with my campaign, platform, pageant presentations…etc., find the money and dedicated team to help make that a reality. Once you win the title of an HBCU queen, you automatically qualify for the national competition among other Campus queens from all over the country. I won that title in the same year and had to learn how to balance my time between both crowns, and trying to graduate…it was a difficult challenge, but I am more than grateful for the opportunity. I learned so much about God, people, friends, enemies and myself. The experience was priceless! AAM: TSU has turned out quite a few notable alumni – Oprah Winfrey, NFL’er Ed ―Too Tall‖ Jones, Athlete Wilma Rudolph – and now you! What do you find is the correlation between you and previous alumni regarding success? Myshel: They DIDN’T give up….as I told you earlier….as a young girl… I was intimidated by the responses I received by others concerning my dreams….well, Thank God I got over it! Shortly after graduating, I realized that I did not want to wrestle with regret years from now, so I made the decision to GO AFTER MY DREAM….with no fear. If I fail, then I would have peace in knowing that I tried.
Faith is a mandatory requirement for all Dreamers. without it, my dreams will remain.....JUST dreams. through this journey... I've learned something wonderful...Leap and the net will appear.
AAM: You’re married to Michael Wilkins. How do you navigate career and marriage successfully? Myshel: I include my husband in all the plans, advice, direction and vision of this dream…in fact, it’s OUR dream….even though he is not musically inclined, he is the head of our household and I honor and respect his position and covering in my life. One day I asked him what his dream, greatest heart’s desire, passion and vision was. He answered to see Your dream come true….he has been my biggest supporter and has sacrificed so much to see me make it…He is my heart. I am he and he is me. AAM: Who are some of your musical influences? Myshel: I listen to all kinds of music – folk, country, pop, rock, contemporary Christian music….Stevie Wonder, Diana Krall, Donny Hathaway, Babe Mason, Celion Dion, Whitney Houston, John Mayer, Nora Jones, Switchfoot, Cold Play, James Taylor, Bobby McFerrin….to name a few. I love true artists that make true, honest music. AAM: How would you characterize your musical style? Myshel: My musical style is Urban Pop. It’s radio friendly/mainstream music with an honest message. This is what I gravitate to. AAM: You write many of your songs. What is the process of writing for you? Myshel: Most songs write themselves if you would only listen….when I listen to a track, it can either sound sad, happy, reflective, strong, declaring a point…I deeply listen to the feel/vibe and write in the direction the song asks of me. I used to force my message on the track and it never worked…I pray, listen, and follow the flow of the song...I simply get out of the way. It’s liberating, and allows pure honesty to flourish, and THAT’s what you ALWAYS want from a song. What comes from the heat – reaches the heart. It’s the only way to write, in my opinion. AAM: What advice do you have for musical artists that are now coming up in the business? Myshel: Whew….this business is ―something else!!!‖ If your heart is not in it…if you’re not willing to put in the work…if your motives are wrong…then you might want to consider doing something else. Don’t compromise your standards for ANYONE! People will test those standards in hopes that you will break your own rules to get what they claim they can do for you. Stay true to yourself, God, personal morals, creativity
and gift given to you and you will go far. It may take longer, but it will be worth it! It’s a process filled with highs and lows…no matter how bumpy the ride…don’t let go…don’t give up! AAM: What project are you currently working on? Myshel: My own album! I’m so excited and ready to FINALLY finish my project! It’s been a long, long road, but I have no regrets, nothing to be ashamed of, and grateful for the powerful things I’ve learned along the way…now when the project comes out next summer, my maturity level will be able to handle the weight of the creative, emotional, and career oriented responsibilities. I can truly say – I am ready! AAM: So, when can we expect this album to be released? Myshel: I have a great team working on my album and we are gearing up to put the finishing touches on it! Summer 2011 is my project release date. I am more than grateful for this beautiful process of doing what I love! AAM: Where do you see yourself in ten years? Myshel: Building schools, community centers and orphanages in other countries and right here at home, mentoring other artists, traveling to sing and inspire many. I can’t wait to give of my resources, monies, gifts and heart to many. THIS is the FULLNESS of my dream!!!! Music is only a piece of the puzzle. AAM: What do YOU know for sure? Myshel: I know I’m going to make it! I know that I was born for this! I know that great and beautiful things are coming my way. I know that generations will know that I walked this earth long after I’m gone. That’s what I know for sure. AAM: Thanks for sharing this time with us. For more on Myshel, visit http://www.myspace.com/myshelsgroove , See video performance CLICK HERE FaceBook @ Myshel.Wilkins.
Children of the Waters: A Novel By Carleen Brice Available at Amazon.com ―Carleen Brice highlights the effects of America's complicated relationship with race and identity…a clear and insightful depiction of what it means to be American at the dawn of the twenty-first century. Brice knows how far we have come and how far there is left to go, and in Children of the Waters she deftly lays it all out for the reader to see.‖— Matthew Aaron Goodman, author of Hold Love Strong. For more on Carleen Brice
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Crack: Volume 1 By Shaka Senghor Available at Amazon.com Crack: Volume 1 follows lead homicide detective Devon Jensen through the grimy streets of Detroit s underworld. Fresh from a stint down in Atlanta, Detective Jensen returns home only to be hurled into a world of chaos when he is forced to solve the murder of a childhood friend. As the body count increases, and the bullets begin to fly in his direction, Detective Jensen begins to realize that he may be in way over his head. As he investigates the link between his childhood friend, who was the Vice President of a Mercedes Benz dealership, and two rival drug families, he finds himself fighting to save his own life and the life of the woman he has grown to love. This debut effort by Shaka Senghor is a fast-paced trip through the ultra-violent inner-city drug trade where pipe dreams go up in smoke. For more on Shaka Senghor
The Mentor Leader By Tony Dungy Available at Christianbook.com ―Your only job is to help your players be better.‖ That single idea had a huge impact on Tony Dungy when he heard it from one of his earliest mentors, and it led him to develop the successful leadership style so admired by players and coaches throughout the NFL. Now, a storied career and a Super Bowl victory later, Tony Dungy is sharing his unique leadership philosophy with you. In The Mentor Leader, Tony reveals what propelled him to the top of his profession and shows how you can apply the same approach to virtually any area of your life. In the process, you’ll learn the seven keys of mentoring leadership—and why they’re so effective; why mentor leadership brings out the best in people; how a mentor leader recovers from mistakes and handles team discipline; and the secret to getting people to follow you and do their best for you without intimidation tactics. As a son, a football player, and a winning coach, Tony has always learned from others on his path to success. Now you can learn to succeed for your team, family, or organization while living out your values—by becoming a mentor leader. For more information on Tony Dungy, www.coachdungy.com
Sweetie’s Healthy Start By Terlene D. Terry-Todd – Book Signing October 2nd 2pm – 5pm Reston Jazz Weekend – Reston Museum, 1639 Washington Plaza North, Reston, VA
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Getting to Happy
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By Terry McMillan – Discussion and Book Signing October 8th 7pm Cost: $35 per person or $40 per couple. Either ticket includes a hardcover copy of Getting to Happy and in both cases, the balance of the ticket benefits Wardrobe for Opportunity. Please make your ticket purchase early by calling the shop at (925) 837-7337 Rakestraw Books, 522 Hartz Ave., Danville, CA 94526, (925) 837-7337
Bobby Flay’s Throwdown: More Than 100 Recipes from The Foodnetwork’ s Ultimate Cooking Challenge by Bobby Flay – Book Signing October 12th 12 Noon William Sonoma, Morris Turnpike, Short Hill, NJ
Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard By Liz Murray – Appearance and Signing October 10th – 4:30pm – 6pm – Tickets: $10 Redford Center, 2150 Aliston Way, Berkeley, CA – Brower Center
Prompt for the Day – “No thinking…just sit down and write raw for 15 minutes. Write about the day you realized that you were getting older, becoming an adult….Just write.”
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Featured Writing……. Walking Out Destiny By Gina Johnson Smith
Life isn't fair and isn't easy. God designed life to grow us, to stretch us to magnify that which He has placed within us. Each of us have something different, but each of us bring a rich perspective to life's tapestry - if we will but birth who we were meant to be. Each of us are called and we must resist the urge to hide in fear from who we really are. We must walk into our destiny with arms open wide...knowing that we have a work and must perform it, for this is why we live... There are people I know that live resolutely in their destiny...they simply can't help it. They are walking magnification of who they were meant to be. They radiate the fullness of their gifting. How precious this is! And yet, some of us resist the fullness of destiny. We negotiate, make deals, go dormant...we want the simplicity of routine...being magnified is a scary place....yet, when mouth opened....pen flowing...we can't help but allow the intensity of our gifting to seep out....we feel at home..this freeness nurtures us and everyone around us.....eventually the haters show up.."Who does she think SHE is?" , they mock! "She's not all that!" Those of tender hearts can be wounded by the callousness of such people....it can force them deeper into silence...until the gifting is shut down, locked up and left to the cobwebs in the darkened corners of our lives. At these locked down times we are unfruitful and weak. We have lost our salt. We can't nurture properly because we are an imitation of who we were meant to be. We die a little every day, because we aren't truly living. We have given haters power....and that simply won’t do!
Life lessons have taught me that we must ALL make manifest the gifting that is within us. Sometimes it’s inconvenient, but it is always profitable. Sometimes it is costly to our relationships, but we are always blessed for the sacrifice. Sometimes we have to move beyond our fears of the haters, because we have the potential to open the door of freedom to those that our gifting feeds. Walking out your destiny will cost you. It will challenge you because there is an energy that wants to keep people from really knowing who they are...and it will fight you. It will challenge you, confront you, insult you, rip you, and try to kill you...because you represent freedom to a lost soul. You represent a changed mind, a changed heart to generations that exist in the one you're feeding. Your one connection can change a family, can change a neighborhood, can change the world. All because of you! All because you were willing! This is the time for self-examination. Am I embracing all that I must become? Or have I allowed haters to silence my message? Have I learned to walk in the boldness of my knowingness, or have I caved to pressure? Let us choose to run towards our destiny....full throttle! Let's not waste our lives away focused on little, meaningless things, forgetting that we are here to inspire a life. We are here to give a moment of love that says "you too are worthy, by virtue of being alive alone!"
Life lessons have taught me that we must ALL make manifest the gifting that is within us. Sometimes it’s inconvenient, but it is always profitable‌
My father always said, "Gina, don't be afraid. Don't walk in fear." I never really understood why he often said that to me. Yet as an adult, I have learned he saw in me what I didn't see as a young, free girl. I had tremendous talent, I was free in spirit and could do almost anything without effort....but he knew the day would come when the bigness of who he saw I could become, would even scare me. My father is now gone, but his lessons remain with me. I am coming up on my Jubilee year - 50. It is a season of change, a season of pardon, of new beginnings....time to walk resolutely in the fullness of the promises that rests within me. Not from a prideful place....but from a place of knowing clearly what I'm called to do. It is a year to release others to the fullness of who they are to be, while loving them completely as we walk our individual journey. Big changes are on the horizon, but great freedom is available there. Pray for His success in my life for this coming year. The little girl still resides there, lurking in the shadows of questions. I need not own greatness, but walk out His work for my life. I must walk in confident boldness in all I have learned, for there is great wisdom to be shared.... None of us are perfect, but all of us are called. Make manifest that which is in you! It has rich rewards tied to it. It has freedom written all over it! The world is waiting, hoping we will take up our charge. I commit to run towards destiny....I dare you to do the same! Learn more about Gina Johnson Smith via Notes on Facebook @ Smithpublish or at Shoutlife.com/GinaJohnsonSmith. Copyright 2010 - Gina Johnson Smith
Chris Brown Deuces featuring Tyga & Kevin McCall Written by Jon at www.Paulasawesomeworld.com Lately, I’ve been listening to Chris Brown and Tyga drop some new stuff from their mixtape (Fan of a Fan, which drops this Monday – be on the lookout for that review next week) and I’m quiet satisfied with what I’ve heard. The track ―Deuces‖ is my favorite of what they’ve released (or leaked). It’s a breakup song and who better than Chris Brown to shine in this track. His vocals complement the beat superbly and the way he sings ―You made me wanna say bye bye, say bye bye, say bye bye to her‖ makes you want to put it on repeat. If you don’t know already, I’m a die-hard Tyga fan. I believe he knows what he’s doing and he hasn’t disappointed yet. His part enriches the song even more. Lastly, another guy was featured in this song, Kevin McCall. I’ve never heard of him before but I think he is an essential part to this track. His flow is nice and I love how he plays with his words. This is going to be a hit, I can feel it already.
Johan & Panache Band Johan & the Panache Band play the greatest oldschool classics from the greatest R & B/Soul & Funk artists! Earth Wind & Fire, Marvin Gaye, The Commodores, Morris Day & The Times, Rick James, James Brown, Parliament Funkadelics, Bob Marley, Kool & The Gang, Lionel Richie, Luther Vandross, Barry White, Bobby Caldwell...all the most popular standards that we love to dance, hum or reminisce to! Members of The panache Band are seasonned musicians with extensive pro background. Johan is the lead singer, born in St Louis MO he picked up his first guitar at the age of 6 years old and went on to tour with the Gospel Airs and his band "Talk of the Town" in Germany & Europe. In LA he has performed the gig circuits from UBG to Pig N' Whistle and The Palladium in Hollywood. The Panache Band enjoys private functions and will make your special event a night to remember! For more information or to book for an event, contact thepanacheband@aol.com, or visit their website at www.myspace.com/simplyjohancd.com .
Mattress Music Marques Houston www.Marques-Houston.com
Customer Reviews Big P - Marques Houston is making grown folks music. The problem is not enough of us grown folks support artist our age. This album is great. Now if more people my age would quit listening to so much rap and buy this instead it would be a huge seller. David M. Stone - I think this a Baby-Making Classic for MH, everything is balanced no song is above one another, lyrics are deep for making love just listen to the lyrics so detailed, production is great each song flows into the next, like how some of the songs breath at the end. Smart idea to have Soluja Boy have a small cameo smart. It is a concept album and it’s great I hope it gets respect for Grammy time. Respect this album and buy it, don't let it go unnoticed. Forget Trey Songz this album is the truth real talk. View video, CLICK HERE .
Seal 6: Commitment Review by Gail Mitchell – Billboard Magazine With roots in Britain's house music/rave scene, Seal has also migrated into pop and dance during his career. Then in 2008, the singer/songwriter detoured into R&B on the uneven album "Soul," turning his husky baritone loose on such classics as "A Change Is Gonna Come." Reuniting with "Soul" producer David Foster, Seal delivers a more engaging and satisfying addition to his repertoire with "Seal 6: Commitment." The title says it all as Seal mines the various forms of commitment—to love, family and self—on original songs that are both melodic and eloquent. Opener "If I'm Any Closer" is an uplifting, Sting-reminiscent anthem that brings the album to life, as does the soaring "Weight of My Mistakes." Still a romantic at heart, the man behind "Kiss From a Rose" rekindles that heat-seeking emotion on the lushly stringed "Secret" and the tender yet emphatic "You Get Me." Taking subtle command over rich orchestrations that might overshadow another singer, Seal deftly showcases his still-formidable skills as a writer and vocalist.
Irene Cooking With The Stars Irene Stokes, famous comedian, actress and author affectionately known and loved in Hollywood, is featuring her celebrity cooking show, "Irene Cooking with the Stars". The new cutting-edge show turns up the heat with Irene's unique "Hey Bay-B" cooking style and exclusive conversations with celebrity guests including; Jamie Foxx, Kris Jenner, Raven-Symone, Tisha Campbell Martin,Shane Sparks, Omarosa and many more on upcoming episodes. The show will take you on a culinary journey like no other show. Irene takes you in the home of your favorite celebrities to explore their favorite dishes, personal recipes, special cravings and "other secrets," as only she can. Irene has been whipping up gourmet style meals for her celebrity friends and family with rave reviews for years and is now bringing it to television. Irene's new website, www.irenecookingwiththestars.com, features an exciting introduction into Irene's "Hey Bay-B" family and an interactive community filled with new and innovative features such as; Top Ramen Fridays, great recipes, food blogs, the Hey Bay-B Club, the Irene Music Club with her favorite music to listen to while cooking and the premiere of a new "Irene Cooking with Stars" episode each week. Trying to stay on a Budget? Irenes' "Top Ramen Fridays" a special feature on the website, is an economy buster, it will help you save money in the kitchen. On Top Ramen Fridays Irene explores the wonderful world of Ramen Noodles. She shares and prepares her delicious and economical homemade recipes to help you prepare a quick, easy, delicious and hearty meal that can feed a family of 4 for about $15.00. The website offers fans the opportunity to order her cookbook, "Irene's Kitchen Volume 1". Fans can also visit Irene on FaceBook, MySpace, Twitter, and You Tube for updates, blogs, exclusives and news on her show on network television this fall. Throughout her acting career, Irene, a Cleveland, Ohio native, honed her skills and garnered success on more than 35 major films and television projects under the management of the late great Redd Foxx. She has the natural ability to create laughter everywhere she performs and is now gracing the world with her talent. Visit her website at www.irenecookingwiththestars.com .
Playwright Je’Caryous Johnson Talks Exclusively with AAM If you can dream it, you can do it. Best known as a “conceptionalist,” Je’Caryous Johnson is a man who knows no limitations. As Executive Producer and CEO of I’m Ready Productions, the 32-year-old Johnson is proof that anything you set your mind to do can be accomplished with hard work determination and perseverance. Johnson took out time to interview with Authors & Artists Magazine. AAM: Tell us about your years as a young man. What were you like? What was your life like?
JJ: "People thought I was a little different. I wasn’t a partier. I was very focused on being successful. I would oftentimes go by myself and fly a kite when I needed to clear my head to think about what I wanted to do next. I got a full scholarship to college but because we were poor I was still able to get financial aid and student loans. While other people were using refund checks for cars, rims and apartments, I started I’m Ready Productions with it. It was the easiest loan I ever received and one of the best business and life decisions I ever made. I was able to pay my student loans back within a year and a half of being in business." AAM: Was yours a creative or artistic home? JJ: "Not really. However, my uncle (Gary) was a very good musician. He spent hours playing the drums while I was acting in a world of my own. We were the only ones in the house that had an interest in the arts. Thus, he is my business partner today. We would perform at family reunions and since I was the performer and he was the music. He was sorta like the underscore to my word. Strangely enough, our relationship is still the same."
I kept feeling the need to let our people know that love really does exist and that all men aren’t bad and every woman isn’t damaged goods. AAM: Was writing always your strength? Did you want to be a writer when you grew up? JJ: "No, I actually wanted to be an actor. I felt I was pretty good. I was the 'King of Acting' in Houston…so I packed up and moved to LA and quickly realized that I may have been a 'King in Houston,' but the only crown I held in LA was Crown Royal as I sat on the balcony wondering why I couldn't land a gig!" Lol! AAM: When did you write your first play? What was it about? JJ: "I wrote my first play in high school for a national history fair competition. It was about Malcolm X, Martin Luther King, Jr., Medgar Evers. It was about these guys' three different approaches to change America for the better. I come from a more regional background in theater and writing. My subject matters were initially historical. I’ve dealt with Emmet Till in a play. I wrote a play entitled "From Slaves to Kings." It wasn't until I got into the urban market did I begin to write about love. I kept feeling the need to let our people know that loves really does exist and that all men aren’t bad and that every woman isn’t damaged goods. If we are just willing to come together and take a chance on one another we are unstoppable!" AAM: We heard you were hand-picked by Sammy Davis Jr. ‘s estate to write Mr. Bojangles. How did that come about? JJ: "One of the representatives of the estate attended a play of mine. He was impressed with the writing, quality of productions and the connection and relatability to the audience my play had. I then met with the other parties of the estate and they asked me to write a play about Sammy Davis that would preserve his legacy with the older generation and introduce him to the new generation. " AAM: Who are your greatest influences? JJ: "My grandmother and grandfather. They were God fearing, humble, incredibly loving entrepreneurs who raised me. They reminded me to always keep God first and give him the credit! I wish they were both still here. They would be so proud! I know God is having a good time with them." AAM: You’re quite accomplished – an author, a playwright, a director, actor – what made you decide to explore all these areas? JJ: "I couldn’t afford to hire other people to do them. So I had to learn them all."
AAM: You have a lot of celebrities acting in your plays. How did this come about? JJ: "Writing quality scripts draws quality people." AAM: Your plays seem to center around the theme of relational love. Are there other themes you are considering exploring in upcoming plays? JJ: "Love is a theme that you can never get enough of. It takes a lifetime to master if you are lucky. I just like sharing my experiences in hopes of helping others." AAM: Because love and relationships seem to be the main factor you explore, is there someone special in the equation for you? Are marriage and family in the cards for you any time soon? JJ: "I like to keep my private life, private." AAM: What is on the horizon for you and I’m Ready Productions? JJ: "We will tour our second play this year called "Marriage Material beginning in November;" have three movies ready to go -- ―Cheaper to Keep Her," "Love TKO" and "The Marrying Kind;‖ two television shows -- ―More to Love‖ and ―Help! I’m a Black Woman trying to date!‖ And, we are working on a Black soap opera." AAM: What advice would you give aspiring playwrights? JJ: "You don’t have to be great to get started, but you have to get started to be great! Life may go up and down, but always know 'rock bottom' is solid ground and a 'dead end' is just a place to turn around because desire backed by Faith makes all things possible." AAM: What do YOU know for sure? JJ: "That God is Good!" Cheaper To Keep Her: October 9 – 10, Willett Hall, Portsmouth, VA
www.imreadyproductions.com
Reel Talk – The Social Mixer in the Perfect Set Tanzore Lounge 50 N. LaCienega Blvd Beverly Hills, CA Friday, October 22, 2010 – 7:00pm – 11:00pm
Are you ready for the Big League? You ready for the Big Time? This IS LA, land of hopes and dreams and the building of relationships. You never know who you will meet to take you to the next level, unless you get out and network. Unbeknown to us at Real Talk: The Movement, we didn't know that the owner of major studios in LA was seated in our midst. So now, here we STAND in the Perfect Set! Come join us at this social event, Reel Talk...The Social Mixer in the Perfect Set on Friday, October 22, 2010 as Real Talk the Movement launches its way to the Studio in association with ViM Network, one of the leaders in Broadcast Media and Entertainment. Yes, we are taking it to the Reel and we want you to be a part! We're asking each man to invite a woman and each woman to invite a man. Do dress to impress! This ain't for the faint at heart....that's REEL TALK! Our mission is still to connect the African American male with his world with "African American Men Speak." We want to continue to address the inherent need for effective communication measures in personal and professional relationships. This event is open to the public and will be held at the Tanzore Restaurant and Lounge, 50 N. La Cienega Ave., Beverly Hills, California. Donations are $5.00. Do RSVP today as we plan for this night to be a stellar crowd! It's Friday Night! The Real Talk Series was developed as a vehicle to begin cultivating more effective communication between African American men and the world which surrounds them. The series is spearheaded by LW Special Events CEO, LaTonya Washington, and was first introduced in February of 2010. This event has become a signature series for the company, and we hope to see you there. Visit www.lwspecialevents.com for more information on panelists, tickets, and other upcoming events.
BG5 Prepares for New Single Release, US and UK This Fall California girls BEACH GIRL5 are preparing to make waves worldwide with the November 30th US release and January 10th UK release of the club banging single, SCRATCH. The girls are ready to take the world by storm beginning with a five-week road trip across the UK and a 15-city American tour starting in November. With a long line of credits including opening for Justin Beiber and Selena Gomez at this year's PopCon as well as having their debut album produced by Armato/James, who have worked with the great pop talents including Miley Cyrus and Mariah Carey, BG5 is ready to prolong a summer of fun with the contagious and fresh single, Scratch. The girls will also be heavily featured on E!'s hit reality show, Keeping Up With The Kardashians, with their first appearance on the September 26th episode in the US. Viewers will see what happens when family matriarch, Kris Jenner, longtime manager of the careers of husband Bruce and her daughters, becomes co-manager of BG5. Featured will be video shoots, showcases, meetings, heart to hearts, and Kris' involvement with every facet of the group's professional - and personal - evolution. Brooke Adams, Dominique Domingo, Noreen Juliano, Mandy Jiroux, and Laura New are the five talented women who make up BG5. Before becoming a group, they were booked individually for the Professional Volleyball AVP tour but after the 18 city tour ended, they decided to stay together and continue as a group. Last year BG5 competed in Wango Tango's KIIS FM Break Out Stars contest and won the top spot, ten thousand dollars, and a slot to perform in front of thousands of concert goers. With an upcoming tour in the works, the release of their new single, and a featured role on Keeping Up With the Kardashians, the future is very bright for this sun-kissed act! For more information, visit: www.myspace.com/bg5music Like us @
LA Fashion Week Fall 2010 October 13 – 20, 2010 A Parisian Afternoon at Lloyd Klein Champagne, caviar and Joan Collins. It was just another day at Lloyd Klein’s couture house on Beverly Blvd. Leave it to the French designer to create a ―Parisian Afternoon‖ in Hollywood.
Lloyd Klein and models pose in looks from the couturiers' Fall 2010 collection, photo by Alberto E. Rodrigeuz/Getty Images, courtesy of Lloyd Klein.
And a lovely afternoon it was with icons of Hollywood style in attendance. Betsy Bloomingdale, Natalie Cole, Barbara Davis and Collins all stopped by to see the latest looks from Klein and jewelry by Angela Tassoni-Newley who co-hosted the event. ―I thought it was interesting to do something during fashion week and make it a tradition,‖ said Klein. The couturier who formerly was the head designer for Mme. Grés in Paris said his intent is to create a collection each season to be shown privately at his luxurious couture house. And with attendees such as Bloomingdale who was formerly a front row regular at the couture shows in Paris, Klein’s vision is not far from reality. Klein brought his design house to Los Angeles over five years ago to be closer to the Hollywood scene. ―Everyone watches what is happening in Hollywood,‖ said Klein. ―I really think that it is such a powerful city and we don’t give it the credit that it deserves. This is a house of couture. It’s Paris in Hollywood.‖ Klein's couture gowns.
For more on LA Fashion Week, visit www.lafashionweek.com
If you let Atlanta designer Bramer Stevens tell it, the current trend in couture clothing has hit the skids, as some people are paying top dollar to wear the casual Friday look. Stevens is determined to reverse the trend, and he commits his clothing line, Bramer Leon Couture, to the basics of sophisticated style. "I have a very classic vision, he says "I believe people need to look beautiful." I don't think that has been priority recently. Stevens entered the fashion industry as a student of the Art Institute of Atlanta when he honed his illustration and design skills. Later, he mastered the technical aspect of the fashion industry and formed his own design company. Stevens credits late designers Willie Smith and Patric Kelly as major influenced during his early years. Today, Stevens admires the work of fashion designer Thierry Mugler, Giorgiol Armani, and Valentino. Embarking on his fifteenth year in the fashion business, Steven is dedicated now more than ever to making fashion lovers everywhere look refined and sophisticated. "I want to make people look classy and fabulous", he says. " I believe that clothes should last and not fade out. This is my life and passion." Learn more at www.myspace.com/bramerleoncouture
Good Girl Gone Shopping I am Elana Brin Pruitt -- the self-proclaimed Good Girl Gone Shopping. I live to shop sales, talk about sales, and make friends with clearance racks. Through trial and error, as well as an extensive retail background, I've discovered my innate style and what works for me. As the 'Good Girl Gone Shopping,' I strive to do the same for both men and women -- help them exhibit their personality through fashion. Check out my blog at www.diaryofapersonalshopper.blogspot.com
Tyler Perry’s “For Colored Girls” Release Set for November in Time For Oscar Consideration Tyler Perry is making an Oscar run on November 5th with his much anticipated ―For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow is Enuf.‖ Lions Gate just announced they’ve moved up their release from a planned January 14th. The film has a bevy of possible Best Supporting Actresses including Thandie Newton, Kerry Washington, Phylicia Rashad, Anika Noni Rose, and Janet Jackson. There are plenty of other big names, like Whoopi Goldberg, in what could be the ―Precious‖ of 2010. This was the film Mariah Carey had to drop out of last spring. You can see why now. Nevertheless, this is Tyler Perry’s first attempt to try and get into the Oscar race. The question is will critics and awards voters treat this movie as they did ―Dreamgirls‖ and ―Precious.‖ Last year, the National Board of Review ignored ―Precious.‖ It went on to get 6 Oscar nominations. ―Dreamgirls‖ produced only an Oscar win for Jennifer Hudson, and no other key nominations. ―For Colored Girls‖ is based on the play by Ntozake Shange. It’s been in development for more than 30 years. The play opened on Broadway in September 1976 and played 742 performances. I just hope the film’s ads and one sheets retain the gorgeous iconic poster from the play. It’s a classic.
Beatriz Ledesma Solo Show Pomona Art Colony October 1 – October 30 Opening Reception and Pomona Art Walk October 9th 6pm – 9pm
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are featuring the work f Beatriz Ledesma. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1958, Beatriz Ledesma is a surrealist professional painter living and working in Chicago. Her career as a painter began during the 70s under a backdrop of political, social and economic turmoil. Painting was her refuge. Her work is influenced by the work of surrealists, symbolists and the seminal ideas of psychoanalysis. Ledesma’s art work attempts to unveil the unconscious, the spiritual, and the mystical through the art-making process. She mostly works in series. She holds a M.Ed. from her native country and earned a M.A. in Art Therapy (1988) from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She works out of her studio at the Fine Arts Building. Explore more of her works at www.ledesmastudios.com . Shattered Structure Oil on Board 8” x 10”
Latino Art Museum 281 S. Thomas St. Suite 105 Suite: Suite 105 Pomona Art Colony Pomona, CA 91766 USA Phone: (909) 620-6009 www.lamoa.net www.pomonaartscolony.com Friend Working Artists Network on Facebook! Get featured here!
Science Museum of Minnesota Talking about race isn’t easy. But that’s exactly what 200,000 people did.
And at the Science Museum, we hope that those conversations will be an important step in changing our ideas about race and racism.
Exhibit Overview The exhibition RACE: Are we so different? brings together the everyday experience of living with race, its history as an idea, the role of science in that history, and the findings of contemporary science that are challenging its foundations. Interactive exhibit components, historical artifacts, iconic objects, compelling photographs, multimedia presentations, and attractive graphic displays offer visitors to RACE an eye-opening look at its important subject matter.
Current science tells us we share a common ancestry and the differences among people we see are natural variations, results of migration, marriage and adaptation to different environments. How does this fit with the idea of race? Looking through the eyes of history, science and lived experience, the RACE Project explains differences among people and reveals the reality – and unreality – of race. The story of race is complex and may challenge how we think about race and human variation, about the differences and similarities among people.
Developed by the American Anthropological Association in collaboration with the Science Museum of Minnesota, RACE is the first nationally traveling exhibition to tell the stories of race from the biological, cultural, and historical points of view. Combining these perspectives offers an unprecedented look at race and racism in the United States. Science Museum of Minnesota
www.smm.org
Understanding Race Project www.understandingrace.org
Profile: Mackenzie Foy Mackenzie Christine Foy (born November 10, 2000) is an American model and actress. She is best known for modeling for companies such as GAP, and Banana Republic. She has recently been casted for Renesmee Cullen, in the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn part 1 & 2. The bright-eyed newcomer landed the part of Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart's onscreen daughter with only a handful of acting credits on her resume: a small role on an episode of 'Til Death in 2009 and a one-episode stint on Flash Forward in 2010.
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Waiting for Superman Davis Guggerheim tells some inconvenient truths about public education in a compelling new documentary Continuing a documentary career that pessimists might say seems devoted to solvable problems that will never be solved, Davis Guggenheim moves from climate change to the crisis of American education in “Waiting for Superman,” a moving and effective film whose subject may lack the hot button box office appeal of his “An Inconvenient Truth” but is at least a crisis practically everyone agrees actually exists. Guggenheim begins by admitting his own guilt: Despite an avowed belief in public education, he chose private school for his own kids. With glossy, commercial-grade photography and a quick pace, Waiting for Superman aims for a wide audience and can’t realistically be expected to cover all its material in depth But many viewers will wish it dug further into the specifics of how great schools succeed and spoke more to concerns that individual success stories are hard to replicate on a nationwide scale. After all, as Guggenheim reminds us, one President after another has claimed to be changing the status quo; it’s the specifis where good intentions always seem to stumble. To learn more, visit www.waitingforsuperman.com.
Savor the Season – Cooking For Love Sunday, October 10, 2010 6:00 PM VIP early admission, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Global Cuisine by Gary Arabia at The Lot Studios 1041 N. Formosa Ave - West Hollywood, CA
Now in its sixth year, Break the Cycle's Savor the Season has become one of the most talked about and well-attended events in town. In fact, Savor the Season is one of the top ten food and wine events in Southern California.
The Hurricane Club Opens The Hurricane Club 360 Park Ave @ 26th St New York, NY 212-951-7111 www.thehurricaneclub.com
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At this Polynesian oasis, clean water is in no short supply — would you like still, sparkling, or fresh coconut? And pests are of no concern, thanks to Roman shades made from mosquito netting. Go late and take refuge on a green crocodile banquette while scoping the scene in the bar’s mirrored hatches, which can be battened down if gusts (or guests) squall. Fortify with one of 42 numbered cocktails. We’ll have a No. 73 — Knob Creek, fresh lime, jicama, and cayenne in a fresh red pepper. Grab a card to jot down which numbers you sipped — and any other number you might want to save.
5th Annual Taste of Soul Saturday, October 16th, 10:00am – 6:00pm www.tasteofsoulla.org The 5th annual Taste of Soul, L.A.’s Soul Food & Music Festival, is presented by the Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper in conjunction with Radio Free 102.3 KJLH and the 94.7 The Wave, and will take place Saturday, October 17 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Each year, the one-day urban festival features the best in soul food cuisine and live entertainment. Billed as Los Angeles’ largest street festival, the Taste of Soul Festival takes place outside on Crenshaw Boulevard between Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Rodeo Boulevard and plays host to over 100,000 attendees from all over Southern California. The Taste of Soul Festival started as the brainchild of Los Angeles Sentinel executive publisher Danny Bakewell, Sr. who wanted to bring the Black community together for a day of fun-filled entertainment. After collaborating with Radio One founder Cathy Hughes, L.A. City Councilmen Bernard Parks and Herb Wesson and Councilwoman Jan Perry, Bakewell’s vision was realized in October 2006, as an estimated 35,000 people came out to historic Crenshaw Blvd. in one of the largest gatherings in the city’s history.
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Taste of Soul Festival Saturday, October 16, 2010 10:00am – 6:00pm www.tasteofsoulla.org Be part of the 2010 Taste Of Soul Festival, Saturday, October 16th from 10am-6pm on Crenshaw Boulevard between King and Rodeo Boulevard in Los Angeles. It’ll be another year of live music on 3 stages, incredible food, family activities, celebrity appearances and much more.
The Rippingtons Thorton’s Winery - Temecula Sunday, October 10th – 4pm www.jazzconcerts.com The Rippingtons, led by composer/producer/guitarist Russ Freeman, has become one of the nation's premiere contemporary jazz instrumental groups. Combining jazz, pop, rhythm 'n' blues, Latin and world music elements, the Rippingtons produce a sophisticated, elegant sound that soothes the soul.
I Need Thee – The Play The Warner Grand Theatre October 23, 2010 – 7pm www.ineedtheetix.com
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"I Need Thee"- A gospel stage play. The modern day story of Job, see what happens when everything you think could go wrong does but the miracle God has waiting when you hold on to your Faith.
The Substance of Hope: Barack Obama and the Paradox of Progress Esowan Bookstore Tuesday, October 19t , 7pm – 8:30pm www.esowanbookstore.com Elegantly written and powerfully argued, The Substance of Hope challenges conventional wisdom as it offers original insight into America’s future.
Cheaper to Keep Her Omaha Music Hall, Omaha, NE Tues., October 19th - 8pm www.imreadyproductions.com As ex-husband and ex-love face off with each other, broken hearts will get revenge and hearts and marital matrimony will collide only to discover if it’s easier to love her as his wife.