A Nice Article About Belva Davis

I picked up the Contra Costa Times this morning and was surprised and excited to see Ms. Belva Davis on the front page.

This woman is a true icon. Congratulations to Belva and big ups to the Contra Costa Times for recognizing her and her contributions.

Here is a link to the article:

http://www.contracostatimes.com/search/ci_14088654?IADID=Search-www.contracostatimes.com-www.contracostatimes.com

Happy Kwanzaa - Ujima

Swahili: Ujima

English: Collective Work and Responsibility

To build and maintain our community together and make our brothers' and sisters' problems our problems, and to solve them together.

http://www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org/index.shtml

Happy Kwanzaa - KUJICHAGULIA

Swahili: Kujichagulia

English: Self-Determination

To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves, and speak for ourselves.

Percy Sutton Dies At Age 89 In New York

Percy Sutton, who represented Malcolm X and became a successful businessman has died at age 89.

His many business accomplishments include restoration of the famous Apollo Theater and ownership of Inner City Broadcasting.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/28/nyregion/28sutton.html

Happy Kwanzaa - UMOJA

Swahili: Umoja

English: Unity



To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race.

Music That Takes You "There"

Beverly Johnson - "A Few Of My Favorite Songs"

This sister can sing!

Her new CD contains a few of her favorites, as well as mine, including "Let It Snow," "The Christmas Song," "A Few Of My Favorite Things," and a tune written by Earlene Davis "God Showed His Love."

Beverly Johnson turns out an amazing performance on this one. She is truly a gifted singer.

To learn more about Beverly Johnson and her music, copy and paste the link below in your web browser:

www.wonderbev.com

The Perfect Kwanzaa Gift.

Support African-American Artists!

"Pages" Book Club Holiday Party

We had a great time discussing Kimberla Lawson Roby's book, "A Deep Dark Secret."

This is a different story than what we're used to reading from the New York Times bestselling author.

I won't spoil it for you, but it's the story of 12 year old Jillian Maxwell, a beautiful girl who appears to be living a perfect life with her mother, stepfather and younger sister.

However, as the reader soon learns, "No one knows what goes on behind closed doors."

I, personally, love anything that Kimberla Lawson Roby writes and would recommend this book.

A perfect gift for the book lover on your list.

CDC PARTNERS WITH BAY AREA BLACK JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION (BABJA)

Come out and support BABJA/NABJ members Barbara Rodgers, Martin Reynolds and Michelle Fitzhugh-Craig in an HIV/AIDS prevention workshop (sponsored in part by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Bay Area Black Journalists Association (BABJA)).

“HIV/AIDS in the African American Community”

December 5, 2009
10:30 a.m. - Noon
Calvin Simmons Ballroom
Oakland Marriott
1001 Broadway
Oakland, CA

For registration information, copy and paste the below in your web browser:

http://tinyurl.com/yaw4w8t

Lee Daniels Pushes the Envelope Again - And Will Probably Take Home An Oscar In The Process

"Precious" continues to pack in audiences in its third week.

Lee Daniels, the Philadelphia born director/actor/producer has certainly evoked a lot of conversation with his film adapted from the novel "Push" by Sapphire.

Daniels best known for "Monster's Ball," and now "Precious" is getting raves and jeers, but one thing is certain - the film is making as much money as it is noise.

If you haven't seen it yet - check it out.

Official website for film:

http://www.weareallprecious.com

The Company We Keep, Black Radio and Why I Love My Book Club

Our book club's latest selection was Mary Monroe's "The Company We Keep."

The book is based on the original screenplay by Roy Campanella, Jr.

It's the story of a successful radio executive looking for "Mr. Right."

It was a light, entertaining read, and I thought that Ms. Monroe's depiction of the entertainment industry, particularly Black radio, was very much on point.

In a previous life, I worked in radio as an assistant to one of the best Black radio veterans in the country. It brought back a lot of fun memories.

The last question in our discussion was "why is Black radio so important to the Black community?"

We all agreed that it makes us feel connected, a part of things and that like the Black church - we don't want to live without it.

We also agreed that in order to hear Black radio, you pretty much have to subscribe to satellite radio. That's how much the industry has changed.

I remember my late mother's tales of WDIA in Arkansas and how much she depended on those Black voices to keep her company (pardon the pun) when she transplanted from her native North Carolina.

We've got to make sure our voices continue to be heard.

Support Black Radio.

"Precious" - Kudos to Oprah and Tyler for Making This Movie Happen

I saw the movie "Precious" today.

I did not want to see the movie.

I did not read the book "Push," which was the basis for this film because the subject matter was too intense for me.

However, through the power of "google," I knew what the movie was about beforehand.

It's not pretty - it's pretty painful - but it's thought provoking. And as I watched it, through tears (and sometimes laughter), I thought, "If you're not giving anything back, what the heck is the point?"

AMAZING performances by all.

Gabourey ("Gabby") Sidibe might want to start working on an Oscar acceptance speech - and Mo'Nique would be wise to start picking out an outfit as well.

Paula Patton and Mariah Carey also showed up and showed out for this movie.

I give this one a "galaxy" of stars!

"POWER" - by Curtis Jackson (AKA "50 Cent")

From Macy's Release:

Join us as we roll out the Red Carpet for 50 Cent! 50 Cent will be visiting 5 Macy's to personally introduce his new men’s fragrance, Power by 50 Cent, available exclusively at Macy’s. With any $68.50 Power by 50 Cent fragrance purchase the day of his appearance, meet 50 Cent and take home a photo with him, in an autographed frame



Tuesday, November 10th
Macy’s Union Square
San Francisco, CA
5:00–7:00 pm

Mattel Unveils African American Barbie

I been gone for a minute now I'm back at the jump off (Jump off)
Goons in the club in case somethin jumps off
And back up before the hive let the pump off
In the graveyard is where you get dumped off
All we wanna do is party (Woo!)
And buy everybody at the bar Bacardi (Woo!)
Black Barbie dressed in Bvlgari
I'm trying to leave in somebody's Ferrari
Spread love that's what a real ma do
Keep it gangsta look out for her people (For her people)
I'm the wicked bitch of the east, you better keep the peace (Aiyyo!)
Or out come the beast
We the best still there's room for improvement
Our presence is felt like a Black Panther movement
Seven quarter to eights back to back with 'em (Back to back)
And I'm sittin on chrome seven times platinum

(Lil' Kim - lyrics from "The Jump Off")

Mattel has introduced an African American Barbie. The doll was designed by Stacy McBride-Irby,an African American woman. Ms. McBride-Irby says she tired of her own daughter playing with dolls whose features did not resemble her own.

The new black Barbies released by Mattel have fuller lips, curlier hair and other features that the company says more accurately represent African-American women.

Go, Grace, Kara and Trichelle!

New York Times Bestselling Author, Mary Monroe - "God Ain't Blind"

The members of "Pages" Book Club in Northern California were honored with a Special Guest at their September meeting.

Novelist Mary Monroe read from her newest book, "God Ain't Blind."
I find her writing to be similar to Toni Morrison, although, easier for me to read.

If you're one of my "GRITS" (Girls Raised In The South), she's a 'must read.'

If you love mystery and suspense, she's got something for you too.

And, if urban fiction is your thing - Mary Monroe has you covered.

If you haven't done so, you must add this author to your library.

Ms. Monroe is not only a gifted writer/artist, she is one of the most personable, down-to-earth sisters I've ever met.

Please remember to support our artists/authors.

For more information on Ms. Monroe and her work, including her tour schedule, copy and paste the link below in your browser.

www.marymonroe.org

Her books are available in bookstores, and through all the 'usual suspects,' Barnes and Noble, Borders, Books-A-Million and amazon.com.


Much love and continued success to Ms. Mary Monroe.

"Live From San Francisco, It's Barbara Rodgers,"

Green 960 AM, Saturdays Noon to 2 p.m.

What Do Linda Ronstadt and Cheryl Broussard Have In Common?

They're both guests on "Live From San Francisco, It's Barbara Rodgers!" this coming Saturday, September 19 from Noon to 2 p.m.

Everybody loves music - and we all need money!

Linda Ronstandt talks about the art of music and Cheryl Broussard gives us tips on the art of the deal - or managing our finances.

"Live From San Francisco, It's Barbara Rodgers"


960 am

"Where's Waldo?" I mean, Where's Lynn? :)

John Legend Concert at the Greek Theater in Berkeley on Sunday, September 6, 2009

Review of John Legend at the Greek Theater on Sunday, September 6, 2009

Thanks, Lynn for the review and photos.

It was a great show at the Greek in Berkeley SOLD OUT - Vaughn Anthony, opened the show John Legend's younger brother, followed by India.Arie she was great I have not seen her before she preformed for an hour she introduced her crew at the end of the show - it was her last night opening for John and her Mom also can out and sang at the end she got a Standing Ovation, her Mom can really sing! She use to be a Motown singer her name is Joyce Arie. Oh, it was also, Vaughn Anthony's last night with John.


John came through the audience it was dark you could not see him you could only hear his voice and then all of a sudden he was standing in my row singing the Redemption Song and then made his way to the stage. He also sang "It's Over "and "Remember the Time" with a tribute to Michael Jackson. He was singing "No other Love" and I was wondering how was he going to sing that song without Estelle and just as it came to her part of the song John introduced her & she made a surprise appearance the crowd went WILD! and of course he did "Slow Dance" and pick a girl out of the audience to dance with him. The Show was also being shot for a DVD!

And when John came back to the stage dressed in a dark suit to sing his Encore of "Ordinary People" a fan made it to the stage and sat right next to him on the piano bench, and said "I love you John" security had to drag her off the stage & just as he was leaving the stage another fan made it to the stage and was right behind him. Security was not on their job that night - all I could think of was that they were so focused on shooting the video, but that's still no excuse.

"Resurrecting Midnight" - Eric Jerome Dickey reads from his new novel on 8/31/09

Eric Jerome Dickey, the one, the only - reads from his new book, "Resurrecting Midnight"

Details:



Monday

August 31, 2009
12:30 PM
Alexander Book Co.
50 Second Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Tel: 415-495-2992


Set amidst the exotic and vibrant streets of Miami and Buenos Aires, "Resurrecting Midnight" is an action-filled, pulse- pounding thriller from bestselling author Eric Jerome Dickey.

THIS IS A GREAT WAY TO SPEND YOUR LUNCH HOUR AND MEET SOME NEW PEOPLE WHO LIKE TO READ

"God Ain't Blind" - Mary Monroe At Alexander Books, Tuesday, August 25

Best-selling author, Mary Monroe, reads from her new book, "God Ain't Blind," on Tuesday, August 25, 2009 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.


Location:

Alexander Book Company | 50 Second Street | San Francisco | CA | 94105
(415) 495-2992

"Find Your Shoes," Grab Your Keys and Make Your Way to See "Pastor Brown!"

I just returned from a screening of "Pastor Brown" in Oakland today.

Sherri James, Vice President of Rock Capital Studios, is touring the country screening this movie to select audiences. I was lucky to get a seat at the event held at Bebe Memorial Church.

Finally, an African American family movie with great acting and a great message.

I don't want to spoil it for the rest of you, but imagine Salli Richardson as "the prodigal daughter." And if that doesn't get your attention - can you say "Angie Stone is a lady pimp?" And it's rated PG!

Seriously, this is not only a movie that you won't want to miss in the theater, you will want to own it when it comes out on DVD.

The cast includes:

Salli Richardson-Whitfield
Nicole Ari Parker
Keith David
Michael B. Jordan
Ernie Hudson
Rockmond Dunbar
Michael Beach
Tasha Smith
Tisha Campbell-Martin
Dondre Whitfield
Angie Stone

Directed by Rockmond Dunbar


For more information, cut and paste the link below into your web browser:



www.rockcapitalstudios.com

"Tales of a True Player" - The Marsh Theater, San Fransico

The Marsh San Francisco presents :
Performed by
Don Reed
Don Reed's
EAST 14th
True Tales of a Reluctant Player

EXTENDED!
Through August 30!
Fri at 8pm
Sat at 8:30pm
Sun at 3pm
no show July 19 & August 14

Press Release

Back in 1970’s Oakland, his stepfather forced him to be a straight A, God-fearing church boy - but he wanted to be just like his dear old Dad. Too bad he didn’t know dear old Dad was a pimp.

Don Reed has performed and written for film, television and theatre. His work on an HBO special of up-and-coming comedians years ago caught the attention of Bill Cosby and led to the creation of a guest-starring role for him on “The Cosby Show.” Don went on to play the recurring role of Chip in “The Cosby Show” spin-off “A Different World” and was recently in "Bee Movie Shorts" starring Jerry Seinfeld.

Don has performed all over the country and opened for Tony Award winner Tommy Tune. You may have heard his voice on: "Spiderman", "The Flintstones", "Johnny Quest", "ER", "Frasier", "Friends", "Scrubs", "Will & Grace", "Law & Order", "SNL" and The Golden Globes. He has written/developed screenplays with Spike Lee's 40 Acres and Mule Filmworks and Maverick Films.

For more information, visit www.east14th.com

Will The Real Marion Barry Please Stand Up?

Thanks to Mary for sharing the below information regarding a documentary on the life of Marion Barry.

No matter what your opinion of Marion Barry, you must admit - his accomplishments are many.


http://www.bvblackspin.com/2009/08/10/marion-barry-revealed-on-hbo/

First Black Supermodel Naomi Sims Dead at Age 61

March 30, 1948 - August 1, 2009


It is with deep sadness that I write that Naomi Sims has died after a battle with breast cancer. Alex Erwiah, her brother-in-law, reported that Sims died Saturday in Newark, New Jersey.

For those of us who are old enough to remember when we didn't see people in the fashion magazines, or any magazines for that matter, who looked like us, this really is cause for pause, prayer and reflection.

A teenager from Oxford, Mississippi, Ms. Sims broke the color barrier on the New York runways in 1967.

We can take comfort in knowing that she lived to see the first African American President and women of all shapes, sizes and colors being represented in print, on television and on the internet.

However, we can only imagine what she went through and saw in her lifetime to achieve the status she enjoyed.

May God Bless Her Soul and Love and Prayers to her family and friends throughout the world.

Peace and Blessings,

Mocha Dot

E. Lynn Harris, Rest In Peace, June 20, 1955 - July 24, 2009

Trailblazing, noted and brilliant African American Author, E. Lynn Harris has died at age 42. More details to come.

May his soul rest in peace. Mr. Harris, thank you for everything.

"SAY It LOUD - I'm Black and I'm Proud" - BET Awards 2009

James Brown recorded that song in 1968. . .and yes, I remember it. And it rang in my head last night.

Wow. . .is all I can say. The energy in the room transcended through the airwaves and I felt it in front of my television set. No matter how many nose jobs he had, Michael Jackson was still OURS (as Jamie Foxx pointed out last night). It was so good to see everybody - black, white, red and yellow come together almost impromptu to pay homage to the late Michael Jackson. I especially liked the duo of Neyo and Jamie Foxx singing "I'll Be There."

Michael Jackson Dead At 50

I am so shocked by this news, I can hardly type. . .Michael Jackson has died of a heart attack at his home in Los Angeles. No words can express the deep sense of loss that the entire world is feeling at this time. May he rest in peace and may we remember the Michael Jackson we grew up with.

Sincere sympathies to the Jackson family.

Rest In Peace, Michael.

"Obsessed" - Starring Beyonce and Idris Elba

Okay, I give this 3 out of 5 stars. . .but I still want to see it a second time! Even though Beyonce is not the greatest actor/actress of all time, she is still drop dead gorgeous. And Idris Elba is not only "easy on the eyes," but he's a great actor.

Ali Larter gives a great performance as "The Temp."

Harmless fun! Check it out.

Rest In Peace, Ernie Barnes

Ernest Eugene "Ernie" Barnes Jr.

July 15, 1938 to April 27, 2009

African American artist and former professional football player. Most noted for his painting "Sugar Shack," featured on the television show "Good Times."

Support Black Business - Black-Owned Syrup Company

If you see this syrup in your Costco, BJ's, or Sam's Club, please support this label.

This is the first African American Vendor at one of these stores. Let's buy some pancake syrup!!! Michele Hoskins, CEO/founder of Michele Foods recently became the FIRST African American vendor with Costco! She was on the Oprah Show and told her story, rising from welfare to faring well.

She is asking ALL people, regardless of color, to support her by going to Costco and purchasing a bottle of her pancake syrup @ the cost of $3.25. If your local Costco doesn't have the product, PLEASE ask for it as she is trying to open the doors for ALL MINORITY vendors to gain entry on the shelves of Costco.

The website is: http://www.michelefoods.com/ and the company is out of Chicago , IL .


(Thanks Cousin Lillie for the "heads up")

"Slavery By Another Name" Receives a Pulitzer Prize

"Slavery by Another Name", by Douglas Blackmon, has just been awarded the Pulitzer Prize.

Own it today.

http://www.amazon.com/Slavery-Another-Name-Re-Enslavement-Americans/dp/0385722702/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1240345081&sr=1-1

Happy Birthday, Luther - Rest In Peace - We Miss You

Luther Ronzoni Vandross (April 20, 1951 – July 1, 2005)

Soul singer-songwriter, and record producer.

Remembering Crispus Attacks - Today Is Black American Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crispus_Attucks

Black History Month Celebration

Well, February has come and gone again. I did not have the opportunity to participate in any Black History Month related activities, however, last Thursday I did have the pleasure of being treated to some of Ms. B.'s famous soul food cooking at a "Sister-Girls" Get-Together.

Nothing warms the spirit like good ole soul food - fried chicken, potato salad, corn on the cob, green salad and lemon bars for dessert.

Nobody cooks like GRITS (Girls Raised In The South)

Have a great week!

peace and blessings,

Dot

If You're Not Outraged - You're NOT Paying Attention: NY Post Racist Cartoon

There's no way to "explain away," that this cartoon is clearly meant to compare President Obama with the chimpazee who went on a rampage in Connecticut this week and nearly killed a woman.

True, the economy is the talk of the nation, however, anyone who knows anything about this country's history knows that African Americans have too often been compared to monkeys, gorillas, chimpanzees and the like.

If this cartoon does not offend you - well, this is a free country. However, if it offends you, as it does me, I would suggest you write to the Editor of the New York Post and let its editors know how you feel.

Use the link below to send a letter to the Editor:

http://www.nypost.com/postopinion/letters/letters_editor.htm


Peace and Blessings,

D.

Top It With Brown Sugar!

Hey, this is a serious recession and we can all use a bargain. Check out the link below. Jamba Juice is not just serving up smoothies, but hot oatmeal with toppings. Register for a coupon to get a cup of oatmeal for just one dollar!

Word for the day - "bargain!"


http://www.jambajuice.com/oatmeal/

Today In Black History

February 6, 1933

Walter E. Fauntroy was born in Washington, D.C. He went on to become a District of Columbia delegate to the House of Representatives.

Bobby Seale Honored By City of Richmond, California

Last night, February 3, 2009, the City of Richmond, California honored the Life and Contributions of Mr. Bobby Seale, co-founder of the Youth Jobs North Richmond Tutorial Program (1964) and of the Black Panther Party (1966) with a Proclamation recognizing his achievements.

While I was unable to attend this event personally, I watched it live via local cable. Ain't technology grand?

Mr. Seale still draws a large crowd and his presence and delivery is as eloquent and moving as it was in 1966. Mr. Seale attended the event with his lovely wife, Leslie Johnson Seale, and his son and daughter. His son was home on leave from a tour of duty in Iraq.

Bobby Seale delivered an address which should have been taped and broadcast in every classroom in the city and country. It was definitely quite a history lesson.

Word has it that Stephen Spielberg is in the process of making a film about the history of The Black Panther Party. Apparently, Will Smith is set to play Bobby Seale.

I hope that Hollywood keeps in mind, when making these movies, check with the folks who were there - like Mr. Seale.

Congratulations to Bobby Seale on yet another well-deserved honor.


Peace and blessings.

Today In Black History

1920 Negro Baseball League founded.

Barbara Rodgers' Inauguration Journal

I wasn't fortunate enough to witness President Obama's Inauguration up-close and personal in Washington DC, so I had to watch it on TV. However, it's nice to have friends in high places :)

Barbara Rodgers, "Retired" Anchorwoman and Journalist Extraordinaire was kind enough to chronicle the events for us.

To experience the events through "Barbara's Eyes," go to:

www.barbara-ontv.com

The journal can be found under "Barbara's News."


ENJOY!

January 25, 1851

Sojourner Truth addressed the first Black Women's Rights
Convention, Akron Ohio, 1851

Marcus Books, Kim Roby, "The Best of Everything" - Jan. 23, 2009, 6:30 p.m.

Marcus Books
3900 Martin Luther King Jr Way
Oakland, CA 94609
(510) 652-2344


DON'T MISS IT!

Kimbera Lawson Roby "The Best of Everything" Book Tour

OAKLAND, CA
Friday, January 23, 2009
Booksigning
6:30 PM
Marcus Books
3900 Martin Luther King, Jr Way
Oakland, CA



www.kimroby.com

Hail To The Chief

After John Legend's Concert at The Paramount in Oakland, CA

Enjoy these photos from the party after ("The After Party") John Legend's Performance at Maxwell's in Downtown Oakland on January 12, 2009.




Photos by Edward Miller Photography, 510-237-0479

Happy Birthday Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

January 15, 1929 - April 4, 1968



"The Dream Lives On"

Suny Press releases "Go, Tell Michelle"

"Go, Tell Michelle"

African American Women Write to the New First Lady



Suny Press has a new release, "Go, Tell Michelle," available January 16, 2009 in bookstores and on their website.

For more information, visit :
www.sunypress.edu

You can watch a news clip, hear an NPR interview or order a copy of the book.

Pass it along!

"Not Easily Broken" - A Film for the Family

Yes, We Can!