“DO SPORTS MATTER IN BIRMINGHAM CITY SCHOOLS?”

BIRMINGHAM ASSOCIATION OF BLACK JOURNALISTS (BABJ)  TO HOST 2ND EDUCATION TOWN HALL MEETING

Birmingham Association of Black Journalists (BABJ) has invited a powerhouse panel of administrators, coaches, organizational leaders, and parents as panelists and resources. All parents and community residents are invited to attend and participate.

Panel discussion followed by small-group, interactive breakout sessions will seek solutions to the systemic weaknesses and potential opportunities of athletic programs in the Birmingham City Schools. As with all BABJ Education Town Hall meetings, objectives of this gathering include generating community ideas, recommendations, and support for improving Birmingham City Schools athletic programs.

WHEN: Thursday, April 30, 2009 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: Parker High School, New Gymnasium

EVENT IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

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ISSUES FOR DISCUSSION AND MORE:

• Why do sports matter in the Birmingham School District?

• How can funding be improved?

• Do Birmingham students get the opportunities and skills they need to play competitively?

• Does a focus on athletics compromise academics?

• Where does accountability lie?

PANELISTS include:

• Superintendent Barbara Allen, Birmingham City Schools

• Ron Ingram, Communications Director, AHSAA

• George Moore, Athletic Director, Birmingham City Schools

• Emanuel Bell, Girls Basketball Coach, Wenonah High School

• Rick Calhoun, Football Coach, Wilkerson Middle School

• Mike Vest, Birmingham Athletic Partnership

• Wendolyn Anderson, Volleyball Coach, Parker High School

• Mary Parish, Parent and Assistant Basketball Coach, Phillips Academy

• Woodlawn High School Student

Invited Guests include: Terry Bouchillon, Athletic Coordinator, Birmingham Park and Recreation; Joe Brown, Sports Director, Northeast YMCA & Downtown YMCA Youth Center.

“West Meets South” – An interview with one of Bham’s hottest producers/artist’s E. ROSS

Artist: E. ROSS
Record Label: Deadline Music Group, Inc.

U: What is your place of residence?
E. Ross: Birmingham but the way of Los Angeles.

U: How long have you been creating music?
E. Ross: For about 7 years. Producing and writing.

Song: Feelin' U Summertime

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Song: Go 2 Wurk

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U: How would you describe your sound?
E. Ross: My sound is Street-Soul Hip Hop.

That’s the best way to describe it. I put my soul into every song I write and produce. I am influenced by hip hop and I come from the streets so, put it all together and you get Street-Soul Hip Hop.

U: Name of your upcoming / current album and where can we get a copy?
E. Ross: Right now I’m working on a mix-tape called, The Nfluence. It will be available on www.myspace.com/iameross in August. It will be free to download.

U: What was the inspiration for your single(s) you released on your current album?
E. Ross: The inspiration for “Feelin’ U Summertime“, which is my single off of The Nfluence mix-tape, is just enjoying the summertime. Will Smith aka the Fresh Prince diff inspire me to write a record like Feelin’ U Summertime. I wanted a real feel good record like summertime. Something the young heads and old heads could relate to. I think I made another classic summertime record with this one right here.

U: What artists have inspired you?
E. Ross: No one artist. Hip Hop culture in general has inspired me. From the old school to the new school. By me growing up half my life on the West Coast and half my life Down South, I was able to take from both cultures and develop my style and sound. I thank moms and pops for that.

U: What message / feel do you want your fans / critics to walk away with after hearing your music?
E. Ross: Here is an artist that stands out from the Hip Hop music today. An artist that really loves what he does and you can hear it through his music. I want people to be inspired by my message and walk away with a good feeling about my music.

U: What effect do you feel your city has on your music?
E. Ross: My city has me keep an open mind on different ways to be creative with my music.

U: How do you feel about the current state of Hip Hop?
E. Ross: The current state of hip hop. Wow, where do I begin with this one. I think hip hop is at a place of founding itself again. Remember when you had a balance of music from the west, east, south and north. That’s what’s missing. A balance of all kinds of music being played on radio and music videos. The balance is not right down the middle. It’s one sided. That one side is MONEY. I think hip hop will found itself again but right now it’s out exploring the world.

U: Do you feel the music Industry cripples creativity?
E. Ross: Really I think it’s about the artist and what he or she is about. Some artist doesn’t know how to be creative and that’s where the industry comes in at. Sometimes I hear artist say this is not really who I am as an artist. But this is who they won’t me to be as an artist. And that’s where the industry cripples creativity by not letting the artist be who they are.

U: When you’re not in the studio, what do you do to have fun?
E. Ross: I’m always in the studio that’s where I live, but I also like chilling with the FAM, watching movies and grilling out.

U: On a Sat night in Birmingham we would find you..
E. Ross: Any lounge spot hanging out networking with people. Having me a Grey Goose and pineapple living the good life.

U: What can we expect from you in the future?
E. Ross: The Nfluence mix-tape in August that will be available on my MySpace page. Producing and writing for other recording artist. Maybe a Grammy, who knows what the future holds but I will tell you this, I’m planning for it right now!

Check me out and add me @
www.myspace.com/iameross
www.facebook.com username: Airrik E Ross
www.twitter.com/iameross
iameross@gmail.com

COMMNUNITY ENTREPRENEURSHIP INSTITUTE GIVES LOCAL URBAN TEENS A FIRSTHAND EXPERIENCE OF RUNNING A BUSINESS

CEI Launches “Tweens and Teens Entertainment Company” Program at Historic L.R. Hall

Birmingham, AL, April 27, 2009 – According to the School Library Journal, teens are feeling the impact of the economic crisis in a big way. Some 53 percent say they’re choosing activities that cost less money, 50 percent say they talk about the economy with their friends, and 14 percent of kids ages 15 to 17 say they contribute money to their family budget, according to a new survey by Junior Achievement, which has kept a financial pulse on U.S. teens for the last decade. As the economy continues to tighten and teens continue to feel the heat, it is more critical than ever for teens to have a full understanding of what drives the economy and how they can empower themselves with knowledge about the world of business. That’s where the Community Entrepreneurship Institute (CEI) comes in.

Founded in 2005, Birmingham-based CEI seeks to advance social and economic well-being in urban communities through entrepreneurship by training urban teens and residents to create businesses based on the product and service needs of their communities.

Through its “Tweens and Teens Entertainment Company”, CEI students will get firsthand experience on how to run a successful business by providing affordable themed entertainment like birthday parties, dance parties, game tournaments and more for youth ages 5 to 18 at L.R. Hall in downtown Birmingham. Under the supervision of CEI executive director, Dr. Karen Starks, the CEI teens will be responsible for coordinating all aspects of the events including the décor, food and entertainment.

CEI is launching its ‘Tweens and Teens Entertainment Company” program with a
special event at L.R. Hall on Saturday, May 2 from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

The “Tweens and Teens Entertainment Company” is a non-profit company within CEI that provides unique entertainment activities designed for urban youth ages 9 to 16. This company was formed after a community/market analysis indicated that the closest entertainment venue was over five miles from where most urban teens lived. The company, operated by a team of students, is both a virtual enterprise and real business venture. To accomplish this, the company uses the IVE virtual banking, products and global marketing system while also pursuing
local contracts.

The “Tweens and Teens Entertainment Company” is a division of CEI’s Teen Entrepreneurs 3.0 Program. Teen Entrepreneurs 3.0 started the in-school program at Carver High School in 2007-08 and continues this year. Over 200 10th and 11th grade students participated in the program. This program provides a two-year business-based curriculum which helps with competency in reading, math and marketing while learning about entrepreneurship; and a two month-long Summer Camp where teens operate the ‘Tweens and Teens Entertainment Company which enhances skills in computer technology, web design and business management. Students receive a $500 training stipend during the summer camp. Currently 12 teens from Carver, Ramsay, Parker, Wenonah, Minor participate in the after school program.

CEI started when the organization’s founder Karen Starks, Ph.D., accomplished her goal to transform her research on urban entrepreneurship at Clark Atlanta University into a community-based organization. Dr. Starks gained an appreciation for the contributions of urban entrepreneurs through her mentor and dissertation chair, Madison J. Foster, II, as well as Thomas O. Cordy, John Sibley Butler and Thomas A. Boston, all leading scholars on urban
entrepreneurship who served on her dissertation committee. Using information gained from her research, Dr. Starks incorporated her knowledge as a social worker, former business owner and professor to develop three programs for the organization. Convinced that urban teens learn best when immersed in an actual start-up, she started the TE 3.0 Program and launched the ‘Tweens and Teens Entertainment Company at the summer camp in 2006. Dr.
Starks invited 10 teens she had mentored as a volunteer in Birmingham City Schools to participate and then secured a $10,000 grant from the University of Alabama School of Social Work to provide stipends, food and equipment for the program.

CEI’s goals are to operate the ‘Tweens and Teens Entertainment Company to generate revenue for the organization; expand the TE 3.0 program throughout the Birmingham City Schools; and hire teens from the Birmingham area.

DATE: Saturday, May 2, 2009
TIME: 12:00 Noon – 3:00 pm
LOCATION: L.R. Hall, 424 16th St. North, Birmingham, AL 35203
AGE: The event is for 7-8 year olds
COST: Free. Space is limited
RSVP: Parents interested in having their child participate should contact Dr. Karen Starks at
915-3775 by Wednesday April 29

Community Entrepreneurship Institute, Inc. is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization dedicated to advancing social and economic well-being in urban communities through entrepreneurship. CEI, Inc. was developed with the philosophy that sustainable urban districts can best be created when entrepreneurs have a strong commitment to the customers and communities where they operate businesses. Using this philosophy, CEI, Inc. seeks to train urban teens and residents to create businesses based on the product and service needs of their communities. The establishment of such non-profit and for-profit ventures creates sustainable urban areas with locally owned and operated businesses that provide employment opportunities to community residents.

Dispite economic woes state tourism up

The state of Alabama saw a 3 percent increase in tourism in 2008.  A great milestone despite the constant concerns with the economy.  Southern states, especially Alabama, are hotspots for family reunions which can certainly help explain the 3 percent increase around the state.  Alabama tourist spent 9.6 billion in 2008.  Jefferson County with $ 1.6 billion picked up the second largest portion only behind Baldwin County which racked up $ 2.3 billion.  The industries most impacted by tourism spending include lodging, restaurants, general retail, entertainment, public transportation and auto transportation.

Art Is Life Conference to connect Birmingham’s creative community to economic opportunities

I was pretty excited to find out about the upcoming Art Is Life Conference  that is scheduled to take place in Birmingham May 8 – May 9, 2009.  The purpose of this conference is a great one.  The objective is to offer Birmingham’s Creative Community with a forum to speak openlyto Birmingham’s Business Community and develop economic opportunities and stability.  This is a pretty powerful movement considering the cut backs we have seen in school and government funded art programs around the state. Creative talent will get an opportunity to voice their opinions, make suggestions, network and showcase their talents to potential clients and investors. This is also an open opportunity to discover ways to sustain Greater Birmingham’s creative talent and not lose them to other cities which seem to be more appreciative of these unique talents.

The Art Is Life Conference is brought to you by the Code RED Organization who has taken the charge to bring the two worlds together.  Code RED which stands for Radically Exist Daily is an organization that is impressing upon all young adults to take an active role in every arena possible and not to simply exist but discover their purpose.  With such a great calling and a list of supportive sponsors and partners we expect this conference to be one of the most “well received” events to take place in the City of Birmingham.

The Art Is Life Conference will take place May 8 – May 9, 2009.   Expect to see exibits and displays as well as participate in a series of forums, discussions and sessions.   You must register for the FREE conference and a chance to win gift cards or a stipend to support your creative project.  For a current list of scheduled events and to register visit www.artislifebham.com.

DJ Rahdu talks with Julie Dexter

DJ Rahdu: On the line we have Ms. Julie Dexter, and you’re actually on your way from Nashville to Atlanta…
Julie Dexter: That’s correct.

DJR: So I see you’re just spreading the dope music around, all around the South East.

JD: Yup.

DJR: But you’re originally from Birmingham, England…

JD: Yes I am.

DJR: So how did you end up in the states?

JD: I think chance; I think it was my fate. I can’t remember exactly ever planning to move to the states, but I remember I’ve visited many times. I’ve been to New York, I’ve been to Florida, I’ve been to DC but never thought “Oh I should move here”. Then when I first came to Atlanta, as soon as I got here, I just felt like, this is it. I wanna live here; I wanna stay in this place. With all these beautiful black people, not just in music, not just in sports, but all walks of life, you know lawyers, doctors, business owners… just an abundance of successful black people, beautiful black people, you know, making it happen. That’s when it touched me, and it really made me look at it as something that was feasible as opposed to a fantasy. In England it was “oh, there’s a black man on TV, oh there’s a black man”. The difference is here, it’s regular, and I know the struggle continues and we have a long way to go, but we still make so many strides here as black people, and that’s what inspires me.

DJR: What year did you move to the United States?

JD: 2000

DJR: So that was right before you started working on Peace of Mind…

JD: Yeah, I pretty much had finished Peace of Mind and then I came over and released it in the states to promote it. I had finished it in ‘99, and it got released here in the states in 2000.

DJR: So all 4 of your albums were actually released while you were here in the states.

JD: Yes they were.

DJR: Can you kinda describe your style; I mean you’ve done so much. I know you have a jazz background; you’ve been involved with broken beat and Bossa Nova for what you did with Khari Simmons… so how would you describe your sound?

JD: I guess I’d say World Groovy sounds, but if you wanna be specific I’d say soul & jazz, mix in roots & reggae, and jazz upbeat, encompasses blues, encompasses Latin, bossa like you said, R&B. The Reggae, the Roots , that’s my West Indian heritage. My parents are both from Jamaica, so that’s like church music, that’s what I grew up on. I didn’t have to study reggae music; it’s in my bones as part of my heritage. I studied jazz, I studied classical, I just got in to soul…Michael Jackson was soul for me. The music thing, it just kinda happened, when I look back I see what things affected me. I was definitely influenced by music that sounded good to me that came in all genres; hip hop, soul, reggae, jazz, even country… the good country songs. The good hip hop, the bad hip hop, I’m about the good vibrations that I guess brings you back to the good music.

DJR: Right, now your husband is keyboardist/singer Michael Johnson. Has living with a musician affected your style at all?

JD: You know what, I think not really. The good thing about living with a musician is that we both from the same place, we pretty much know what the standard is and what the standard isn’t, pay checks and benefits to the job that we do. We understand the writers block, writing music we can help each other out, we inspire each other, we understand what it is to be like, “look don’t disturb me for the next couple hours, I gotta practice, I’m working on this song, trying to get vocals recorded and what have you”. We have the understanding that somebody who wasn’t in the industry; they might not be as understanding of when I’m getting home at 2 in the morning, so he’s gotta deal with the baby…she’s starting to wake up in the mornings sometimes. You know, stuff like that I think affects our lifestyle, with more so the music. It just makes it a better situation that we can both do our music, and we’re both understanding of why it takes a lot of hard work and dedication, and patience being an artist. It’s different from 9-5, you know you got your work cut out for you on a 9 – 5 job. You know you’re gonna get paid on a certain day of the month, you get good benefits… so it’s quite risky being an artist, and having a family too. You wanna put them in a good school; we want her to have a good life to, to be able to enjoy the fruits of our labor.

DJR: Speaking of fruits of your labor, are you currently working on anything right now?

JD: Yes, we’re in the studio making a collection, currently in the making. For those that don’t know; it’s an introduction to who I am, all the music I’ve done, a compilation of my first four albums. For my fans, the diehard fans, who know what a Julie Dexter is, there’s gonna be some new tracks. We’re also gonna put out a DVD recorded a few weeks ago in Atlanta, like a box set CD, and DVD, old stuff, and new stuff… it’s really my re-introduction to the world but for more people, it’s gonna be an introduction.

DJR: Next Wednesday, I know we’ve mentioned spreading your love around the South East…we are actually blessed and treated to have you here in Birmingham. What can we expect from a Julie Dexter performance here in Birmingham?

JD: Well this will be an acoustic set, myself and Brandon Thomas on guitar. So, It’s an acoustic set; like a breakdown, the framework of a song…like the melody, and the chords and the rhythm and the guitar, you’re not gonna hear the bass, you’re not gonna hear the drums. You’re gonna get the most intimate version of the song and I think people get a special treat when they see the acoustic, because they get to hear everything. There’s no hiding behind all that loudness of the drums, the bass, the background singers, and the horns. I personally prefer intimate sets for that reason, I can stretch out more, there’s a good work out for me. The guitarist gets to flex his thing you know. It’s kind of special in that sense. At a full show with a big band you get to really hear the songs, you get to hear the melody, ‘cause ultimately that’s what the framework of the song is; the ultimate elemental stuff… the bass line, the backgrounds, the horns. It’s gonna be a good insight into my career as songwriter, and a performer, and Brandon Thomas is a phenomenal musician/guitarist from Atlanta. Its gonna be a really nice time, Im really excited!

DJR: We’re definitely looking forward to that, and we’re also looking forward to the Julie Dexter Collection that will be dropping soon.What else can we expect from Julie Dexter in the future?

JD: Well I’m gonna keep singing, songwriting, being a producer and a musician. I’m inspired by life, and life is a daily occurrence so I’m always getting inspiration, so people can look forward to more songs. I’m really working on a new album with all new songs while the Julie Dexter Collection is out there, so this time next year you’ll have a whole new set of Julie Dexter songs and that will be a follow up for those who just got the Julie Dexter Collection!

DJR: So how can your fans get in contact with you?

JD: The best way to get in touch with me is through the website which is www.juliedexter.com. Also on MySpace at myspace.com/juliedexter, on facebook as well at facebook.com/juliedexter. If you wanna see some video footage, I advise you go to myspace, if it’s just general information or to buy some music… go to the website.

DJR: We can’t wait to see you here in Birmingham, I know you’re gonna do a great job. We’re gonna get you in an intimate setting; they’re definitely excited about it. Is there anything you wanna say to your fans here in Birmingham before we see you on Wednesday?

JD: I’ve been there before, it’s almost like my 2^nd home ‘cause I’m from Birmingham, England so you know I know all about Birmingham, Alabama. I’m looking forward to coming, I like the city, I like the vibe. I just remember the energy and the people, they were down, they were for it, they were ready. That’s all you need for a performance, people who are open to get with the program so I’m looking forward to making some music happen in Birmingham, Alabama. I’m bringing the Ketch A Vibe, Dexterity, Julie Dexterousness (laughs) to the South East.

DJR: Once again, thank you so much for taking some time out for us, and we’ll be happy to see you here on Wednesday.

JD: Ok, thank you I appreciate you!

DJR: Alright peace!

Miriam D. Witherspoon, City Councilor for District 7 passes

It is with sadness we report a loss to the City of Birmingham, Alabama.

Miriam D. Witherspoon, City Councilor for District 7, attorney, professor, life-long member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, devoted daughter, loyal friend and devout servant whose passion was senior citizens and advocacy for the disabled, transitioned from this life on Tuesday, April 21, 2009.

Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, she graduated from Alabama A&M University and Miles Law School. City Councilor Miriam D. Witherspoon was the only non-incumbent candidate for Birmingham City Council to win election without a runoff in 2005.

Voters overwhelmingly elected her to represent District 7 and shortly afterwards her Council colleagues chose her as second in command. As president pro tempore she presided over council business in the absence of the council president.

An advocate for disabled citizens, Ms. Witherspoon empathized with them because she lived their experience. Councilor Witherspoon relied on a wheelchair since an auto accident in 1988 left her with a damaged spinal cord.

Sidelined for a short while, she eventually decided to resume an active life.

President Pro Tempore Witherspoon graduated with honors from Alabama A&M University where she majored in Political Science and History. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and second in her class from Miles Law School. She passed the bar after the first test and has been practicing law since 1990. She was the Attorney for Senior Citizens in Jefferson County. An Elder Law Attorney for 16 years, she served as Executive Director of the Senior Citizens Services of Alabama, Inc. and is also a former law school professor. She was currently an attorney practicing Probate Law.

Her election to the Council energized the commitment to renovating city buildings to bring them into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, her success reverberated far beyond Birmingham’s city limits.

The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted into law on July 26, 1990 during the administration of President George H. W. Bush. When President Bill Clinton was in office he too strongly supported the ADA. Both men applauded President Pro Tem Witherspoon’s election and sent her personal letters of congratulations.

Birmingham is the first city in Alabama to pass a Visit-ability Ordinance; passage of this ordinance which was introduced by President Pro Tem Witherspoon, has the potential to transform Birmingham’s neighborhoods.

Generous with her intellectual and legal skills, she has received numerous accolades and commendations including the Perseverance Award form the Alabama Association of Women’s Clubs, Inc., Women’s History Award presented by the Girl Scouts of America, Award of Recognition from Miles Law School and Certificates of Appreciation from Bessemer State Technical School of Geriatric Nursing and Alabama A&M University.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time.  Brendette Brown Green is serving as the family spokeswoman and can be contacted at

(205) 305-0434

Juwan Torrell Dickerson’s Note: Dwele & Algebra Live at Platinum of Birmingham

It was Friday night and I was standing in line outside of Platinum of Birmingham waiting with everyone else to get inside. Just to hang out, listen to some music, drink a little bit, and take in the sights. I didn’t really know what to expect but it was Friday night in Birmingham and on Friday night in Birmingham there’s not much else to do. Upon my arrival at the door I was disappointed to learn that I had spent what seemed like an eternity in line for was a concert from some so called rap artist that I didn’t care to see in any setting and that they were also charging three times normal admission for this event. I promptly left and went off to discover something else to entertain me. I once wrote about wanting to leave Birmingham because of the city’s lack of investment in the arts. I was also frustrated with the radio and their unwillingness to play or promote the kind of music that I wanted to hear and how that I couldn’t turn on a station without hearing a ‘Put Yo Hood Up‘ or ‘Tear The Club Up.’ I stopped going out because I was getting bored with DJ’s playing the same songs in rotation every hour like they were just hitting repeat on a compilation CD of Ignant Rap Tracks. I got frustrated and thought that the Magic City would ever catch on with the movement that had been gaining momentum around the world.

It was Friday night and I was standing on line outside the Platinum of Birmingham for the first time in almost 10 years waiting with everyone else to get inside. Just to hang out, listen to some music, drink a little bit, and take int the sights. But this Friday night was different, there was an obvious change in the air. No one was waiting to swing elbows and represent hoods with finger puppetry. No one was there with the intentions of tearing up the club or acting a fool. We were there to celebrate the movement, the new soul movement that has slowly been spreading into the city and this past Friday after 10 years, I finally reentered Platinum of Birmingham. We were there to see to see Algebra and Dwele in concert.

I’m going to admit up front that I wasn’t too familiar with Algebra prior to the show, but once I witnessed her act on stage I became a big fan. Her music is very beautiful and it was clear to me that she was the main attraction and not the opening act of this event. Starting off with high energy on ‘U Do It For Me‘ the crowd erupted in overwhelming applause and fanfare, singing along and vibin’ with her. Maybe it’s her southern roots by way of ATL or her lyrics which are undeniably soul without being “Neo.” Whatever it was, it was obvious to me that the people were definitely connected to her, even demanding her to sing personally to them, and I can’t blame them. During her heartfelt rendition of ‘What Happened‘ we were mesmerized; intently focused and entranced by her words. With her amazing voice and songs that require no deep analysis to understand she is definitely a one of a kind talent. Algebra’s stage presence is incredible; don’t let her small unassuming frame fool you because this girl is a powerhouse, she completely owned the stage and the crowd as well. I especially liked the segment where she introduced her band which allowed the DJ to showcase some dope mixing that got the crowd even more pumped up. I feel bad for sleeping for so long, but I’m so glad that I woke up, and I must admit just like the slogan on the shirt says. ‘I Love Algebra,’ too!!!

Next up it was time for Dwele to get on stage and I noticed and was mildly disappointed at how much the crowd on the floor had thinned down. Being a big Dwele fan since the days of Dilla, I was excited to finally get the change to see him live, even more so because I didn’t have to travel to see it. His set was a shorter than his female counterpart but he managed to get in a good amount of songs. Singing some old favorites like ‘Find A Way‘ and ‘The Truth‘ I was the one that mainly singing along this time, not that there’s anything wrong with that, HA! Accompanied by backup singers and a full band Dwele was right at home. Even adding some homegrown talent to the mix, hometown favorite Kerry “2 Smooth” Marshall on guitar, was a big hit. Dwele showcased his skill on the keys as well, hopping on the boards and playing a tune for the house while the band just grooved with him. Dwele’s performance style and stage presence is a little more subdued and laid back. You could really hear and feel his lyrics, which added to their depth. I especially liked his performance of his new jam ‘How Do I Deal‘ (Waiting For Obama) which I understand came about from him just messing around at the crib. The man just accidentally makes good music. He was definitely a hit, and I would love to see what he would do with a bigger venue and more time to perform.

Overall the concert was a success and I was impressed with how much has changed with the POB and the overwhelming amount of people that were there to enjoy the show. It had been almost 10 years since I been at the Platinum of Birmingham and after 10 years they finally brought me back. Better late than never I suppose, Happy Anniversary! My homegirl Dionne posted on Facebook that night “I hope Birmingham realizes that after tonight, they can no longer cater to the Knuck If You Buck Crowd.” I second that hope, and I think that after that show and the energy that was in the building that the city finally has. We still have a long way to go but we’re going. And it’s a beautiful thing, the soul movement is going strong and it can’t be stopped. Welcome to Birmingham.

Purchase Algebra ‘Purpose’ and Dwele ‘Sketches of a Man’ in stores now!!!

http://www.bamalovesoul.com
http://jayteedee.podomatic.com

YWCA Central Alabama Announces Fourth Annual Art of Passion

Birmingham, AL — The YWCA Central Alabama will hold its annual art show fundraising event, Art of Passion, on Friday, April 24^th from 6 -10 p.m. at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd.

In its fourth year, this year’s event will feature premier artists such as Art Bacon, Alabama Folk Artist Charlie Lucas and quilts from That’s Sew Gee’s Bend, Inc. The event will also include a silent auction for tickets to the Alabama vs. LSU football game including a round-trip limo ride, dinner for 10 at Ga Briella’s restaurant, beach vacations, various local city attraction packages and many more great items. The evening’s festivities will include food and entertainment by two of Birmingham’s local businesses: catering by Michael Glenn’s Creative Catering by Ambrosia and music by the all female band 9X. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the programs of the YWCA that serve so many in the Birmingham community and beyond. Tickets for this event are $25 per person. To purchase tickets, log on to www.ywcabham.org/artofpassion/tickets.asp or call (205) 322-9922 ext. 340.

For over a century, YWCA Central Alabama has been responding to the needs of women and families. The YW’s programs and services serve women and children by providing: affordable child care for low-income families; child care and after-school enrichment programs for homeless children; affordable housing for families and seniors and a full array of domestic violence services. It is important that the entire community understand the needs of so many, for we are strong alone, but fearless together.

For more information, or to inquire about how you can help:

Call the YWCA at 322-9922, ext. 340, or visit www.ywcabham.org/artofpassion. 

GENTLEMAN JACK & URBANHAM.COM PRESENT THE LAUNCH OF PLAYDATE BIRMINGHAM: CHANGING THE SOCIALIZING SCENE FOREVER

Birmingham, AL/ Friday, April 24, 2009—Timeless Entertainment Concepts (TEC) LLC,
Atlanta-based privately held management and holding company with primary assets in the institutional, private, and corporate entertainment industry, collaborate with Birmingham & Atlanta based event management and consulting organization, Socially Linked, LLP and Nashville’s The Lovenoise Group to bring PlayDate Birmingham to the “Magic City”.  As the managing partners of the Birmingham market Socially Linked LLP., (Eboni Bowman, Kalvin
Davis, & Rickey White) and The Lovenoise Group (Eric Holt & Bryce Paige) are teaming up for PlayDate Birmingham after joining forces back in 2007 with the common goal of invoking change on a large scale throughout multiple markets. The monthly game night has evolved from a small intimate group of 80-100 guests to thousands in a variety of cities including Atlanta, Houston, Seattle, and Dallas. An alternative to the typical club scene, PlayDateÔ Birmingham is the ultimate ice breaker; offering conversation, food, drinks, and playing games.

If the club scene is not for you….then, PlayDate Birmingham definitely will exceed your expectation. In most cities, nightlife entertainment options are unchanging and often divided by age, race, or economic status. Offered monthly, PlayDate Birmingham is inclusive for everyone who wants to try something new and have a great outing experience. “We are amazed at the turnout in other cities and wanted to bring the adults of our city an event with the best of everything at one location for a reasonable price.” states Rickey White, Managing Partner of Socially Linked.

“PlayDate has a fresh way of looking at nostalgic games we all know and love. Bringing such a creative option to
nightlife in Birmingham will attract many of those who have been overlooked,” said Imari Havard, CEO of TEC
PlayDate Birmingham attendees will be able to enjoy:

• Socializing among professionals, in their 20’s or even their 50’s
• Interaction with singles, married couples, and those that love to network
• Playing classic games from Pac-Man to Monopoly, Chess to Poker, Nintendo Wii to Madden and everything in between-setting it apart from your typical game night
• An ultra Signature VIP lounge courtesy of Gentleman Jack loaded with food, beverages, and giveaways

“I have witnessed skeptics come into an event and walk out having had the time of their lives. Where else can you
go at the age of 30-something to have a cocktail and play Musical Chairs?” states Ryan Hill COO of TEC.
PlayDate Birmingham launches Friday, April 24, 2009 at the Sheraton Hotel’s Birmingham Ballroom, 2101
Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd., Birmingham, AL, 35203. Doors open at 8 p.m., $10 admission. For more information
please visit www.playdatebirmingham.com or contact Jennifer Smith, 205.541.1380 or
jenniferpr@sociallylinked.com, for interviews, photos, videos, or press passes.

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