Best of Mississippi (www.best-of-ms.com)

(Sat. August 27, 2011) Conversations Book Club & Cyrus Webb Host "Breakfast With Books"

2011-08-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

(Saturday, August 27, 2011 *Brandon, MS) Conversations Book Club and its founder Cyrus Webb are committed to promoting the power of books and self-esteem when it comes to today's youth. They are also intersted in promoting a healthier lifestyle. For this reason on Saturday, August 27, 2011 from 9-10:30a.m. Webb and members of the book club will be enjoying the delicious breakfast memu at Subway Restaurant Crossgates (112 Service Drive * Brandon, MS) but also giving out 50 free copies of the entertaining children's book TOO TALL ALICE written by author Barbara Worton.

"Too Tall Alice is just the kind of book to encourage our youth that they are special just the way they are," says Webb, 36. "When I started Conversations Book Club in November 2006 I wanted it to be a place where everyone could find something that fit their lives no matter where they are. For young people I think Too Tall Alice accomplishes that and more."

There is no purchase necessary to get your free copy of this great book, however, Webb invites anyone to join the book club and him in having breakfast and socializing with the group. For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or at 601.896.5616. To foind out more information about other events hosted by Conversations Book Club visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

CONVERSATIONS: Feeding Your Love Of Life!

Jackson Juggernauts: Reaping The Rewards Of Faithfulness

2011-07-12T07:31:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb

We are told that those that show themselves faith in that which is least will be faithful in much. I personally believe that, and I think that kind of faithfulness comes with determination, perseverance and a sense of loyalty that is sometimes hard to find.

There are examples, however, that should give us hope. Take Tran Myers for instance. Tran and I graduated from high school together in 1994 and though we didn't really keep in touch much over the years, both of us have been using our passion for what we love to help inspire other people. Mine was in the arts. For Tran, it was football. This led him to where he is now, a coach for the past couple of years with the Jackson Juggernauts.

Though only three years old, the Jackson Juggernauts has already begun to make a name for itself and rallied the support of Jackson, Mississippi along the way. According to Tran the owner of the team (Joseph Bean of Louisiana) was looking to put together a team that would give men an opportunity to play football and prepare for either entry into college or just help them in their training. Tran had been working with little league football for seven years at the time, and when Bean came to Jackson with the idea of bringing a minor league football team into the city my former classmate reached out, making himself available. "I would go over and run the scoreboard and clock for them," Tran told me. "I was just there to help do whatever they needed to be successful."

Tran explained to me that what the Jackson Juggernauts offer is an opportunity to help individuals who are ready and willing to help themselves. Those eligible are 18 years old and older. There is no real cut off for those who can join the Juggernauts. Some of the plays are between the ages of 40-45. "This is a real opportunity for the guys to get themselves in shape for a junior college or even a four-year college," Tran says.

Looking at what they have achieved in the past couple of years Tran says the guys putting in the effort is what is a welcome surprise for him. "They are trying to take advantage of the opportunity to get back on the field," he says "We are giving them a chance to be seen and heard as well as possibly pick their careers up off the ground."

What is expected of those who want to join the Jackson Juggernauts?

Well, it goes back to the faithfulness I spoke about earlier. Tran explains this way: "They need to basically come out to practice, meet with the coaching staff and be ready to work." He tells me that they have to filter through those who apply and make sure that they are giving the opportunity to those who will really appreciate it and not take advantage of the situation, thus hurting the rest of the team.

There is pressure for the coaches as well. "We want to make sure that we have all of our pieces lined up," he says. "We look at these guys as being two year players for this team. First year you should be getting into the groove of how we run the team, and the second year you should have everything mastered and ready to compete further. This can mean the opportunity to either get back in school or excel further in other ways."

No matter what they have accomplished so far, Tran is always pushing himself and the rest of the team each day. "We finished 10-2 last season," he told me, "but there was room for improvement." It boils down to the dedication aspect, being faithful in the small things. "If you can't do what it takes to be on board, we don't need you," Tran adds.

As with any endeavor in life there have been some body blows for those who make up the Jackson Juggernauts. In 2010 after winning the championship Tran told me that two coaches along with 25 members left and formed their own teams. Ironically they only lasted about 3 games, being "suspended for noncompliance of league rules." The motive for their departure? Money. I believe, though, that it would be fair to say they they showed the level of their faithfulness, nor lack of. As in any project that you devote your time and resources to, your intentions will dictate how far you are filling to go in order to see a favorable result. Tran agrees. After the departure of his fellow coaches and some of the players he helped groom, he understood an important lesson that he was then able to pass on. "If you are not in it for the right reason, you won't succeed," he says. "You can't deceive the guys or yourself. Conduct yourself as a professional at all times."

And so the Jackson Juggernauts move forward, ready for another year of challenges and endless possibilities. Along with them are coaches like Brant Covey, Travis Readus and Tran Myers ready to support and motivate them every step of the way. For those in the Jackson, Mississippi area or wherever the Juggernauts may be playing Tran offer this advice: "Come out and show that this is something that you love, something that is positive and brings people together. In order for us to hold that crown and to be looked at as a premier state, we have to get the word out. It's gong to open doors for these guys in the future."

Another great example of what can be accomplished when you remain faithful and open to the opportunities. For more information about the Jackson Juggernauts search them on Facebook visit http://jacksonjuggernauts.weebly.com. Tran Myers can be reached by email at jacksonjuggernauts@gmail.com or at 601.665.7444.

Conversations Book Club and Author Jerome Cooper: Mission Accomplished!

2011-04-29T11:10:00.001-07:00

Shadow Play Entertainment and Conversations Book Club would like to thank everyone who made the first booksigning for Mississippi author Jerome Cooper a success.

Hosted by Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb, the event took place on Thurs. April 28, 2011 at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS), and Cooper got the opportunity to share the premise of his book as well as interact with patrons.

Find out more information about the author and the book, visit http://tinyurl.com/adualblessing. To see what is next for Conversations Book Club, visit www.thebestbookclub.info or contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

CONVERSATIONS: Feeding your love of life!

(Thurs. April 28, 2011) Conversations Hosts Author Jerome Cooper

2011-04-22T10:30:00.000-07:00

Conversations Book Club is pleased to invite you to an event taking place in Pearl, MS on Thurs. April 28, 2011 geared towards promoting reading and supporting Mississippi authors. It will take place at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) from 4-5:30p.m. featuring Jerome Cooper, author of the book A DUAL BLESSING.

This event is free and open to the public, however, the author will have their book available for purchasing. For more information on this event, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

Mississippi Author Jerome Cooper Shares Message Of A DUAL BLESSING

2011-04-08T18:14:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb

Macon, Mississippi native Jerome Cooper has alot to be thankful for. After going through challenges in his life he has found real purpose and is using his relationship with God to make a difference. In January 2011 the 36 year old released his book A DUAL BLESSING: Body and Success.

He talks about how his faith has affected the way he lives and what he hopes you, the reader, takes away from his message.

Jerome, thank you for talking with Conversations. First congratulations on the release of your book. Let's begin by talking about Faith. What role has it played in your life?
Thank you having me, Cyrus. To answer your question, faith has played a major role in my life. I really have had to take one day at a time and just be totally dependent on God that everything would come into fruition, even though there were alot of obstacles in my way. I have to keep everything in a present tense.

What age did you realize what faith actually was?
I don't think it was until my mid-twenties until I actually began to get an understanding of what faith really was. It was when I was almost kicked out of school. I was going through alot at the time, including my dad's grandmother passing. During that particular time my grades went downhill. I know it was faith in God that allowed me to continue for financial aid to get my grade point average up in order to get off of probation.

Talk to me about the book.
It's called A DUAL BLESSING: BODY AND SUCCESS, and it was released in Jan. 2011. It has always been a desire of mine to write a book. I have been trying to put together a book for over 7 years. I started off and on, and actually about a year ago I got disciplined with the help of prayer to put together a manuscript with different revelations that God has shown me due to my relationship with Him.

What do you want people to take away from DUAL BLESSINGS?
I want people to be blessed from reading the book. I want them to be affected by the book. I believe if a person is affected it would bring about change.

Your hard work definitely has paid off, Jerome. How can people get their copy of the book or contact you for more information?
Thanks again for the opportunity. They can get the book through online outlets like Amazon.com, Borders.com and my publisher website www.publishamerica.com. They can also contact me by email at cjerome31@yahoo.com to get a signed copy. I can also be reached at 601.316.3843. The website for the book is coming, but in the meantime, people can also join my fanpage on Facebook under either Jerome Cooper or Dual Blessing.

Listen to Jerome Cooper discuss his book on Conversations LIVE here.

(Fri. March 25, 2011) Author M. Beatryce Shaw's Visit To Mississippi: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2011-03-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

On Friday, March 25, 2011 children's book author M. Beatryce Shaw made her first trip to Mississippi from South Carolina to share the message of acceptance that is contained in the first two books of her Mr. Browne series. The result? Residents of the Magnolia State in Jackson, Pearl and Brandon were given the opportunity to meet the author, hear the story behind the books and share in the success of her visit.

The day began at Pearl Public Library in Pearl, MS where Shaw, accompanied by Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb of Mississippi and Harold Utley of South Carolina, was able to meet with patrons and discuss her books with them. The staff, led by Mara Villa, graciously welcomed the author and made her feel at home in her first stop in the Magnolia State.

From there it was on to G. N. Smith Elementary School in Jackson, MS where Principal Mathis Sheriff invited the author to share with the 4th grade students about what led her to writing and what encouragement she had for them in their own lives.

After a quick break, Shaw was on to Brandon, MS where she was welcomed at Visions Daycare by Ms. Bobbie Courtney. There the author once again shared the message of her books and Webb read her first book Mr. Browne's Roses to the kids.

The final stop of the day was at Appetizers Restaurant, a regular meeting place for Conversations Book Club. There members of the book club and patrons were able to meet the author and discuss what was next for her.

To find out more information about author M. Beatryce Shaw and her books, visit www.schoonerpublications.com. To keep in touch with Conversations Book Club, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

(Thurs. March 24, 2011) Cyrus Webb Leads Discussion of "A Time To Kill" by John Grisham

2011-03-23T11:50:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, March 24, 2011, Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb will lead a discussion of the book "A Time To Kill" by bestselling author and Mississippi native John Grisham. This is part of the "Best of Mississippi 2011" roster.

"The Best of Mississippi Book Club is our way of celebrating the state's literary stars as well as those that are on the rise," says Webb of Brandon, MS. "I think the selections are varied enough that Mississippians of all ages and interests will find something they can enjoy and share." Webb also hopes that this will be yet another way that reading can be encouraged throughout the state since it is still has one of the highest illiteracy rates in the country.

The book club meets every fourth Thursday at Appetizers Restaurant (3000 Hwy 80 E) at 6p.m. each month for a 90 min. discussion about that month's selection. Webb will lead the conversation, and the book club is free and open to anyone who would like to attend and/or participate.

"Whether you just love the book or want to sit in on the discussion, everyone is welcome," Webb says.

To find a complete listing of 2011's selections or additional information about the Best of Mississippi campaign, visit www.best-of-ms.com. You can contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Information about his other projects can be found at www.cyruswebb.com.

New Book Club Celebrates The Best of Mississippi

2011-03-04T02:34:00.000-08:00

Conversations Book Club, in connection with Appetizers Restauratn in Pearl, MS, is pleased to announce the formation of the Best of Mississippi Book Club.

"This is our way of celebrating the state's literary stars as well as those that are on the rise," says book club founder and President Cyrus Webb of Brandon, MS. "I think the selections are varied enough that Mississippians of all ages and interests will find something they can enjoy and share." Webb also hopes that this will be yet another way that reading can be encouraged throughout the state since it is still has one of the highest illiteracy rates in the country.

The book club will meet every fourth Thursday at Appetizers Restaurant (3000 Hwy 80 E) at 6p.m. each month for a 90 min. discussion about that month's selection. The first meeting is set for Thursday, March 24, 2011 with the book A TIME TO KILL by John Grisham. Webb will lead the conversation, and the book club is free and open to anyone who would like to attend and/or participate.

The Best of Mississippi Book Club will also discuss the following titles:
•April 2011 --- "Way Beyond Pisgah" by Alean McIntyre Adams
•May 2011 --- "The Quiet Game" by Greg Iles
•June 2011 --- "Caught In The Middle" by Jennifer Luckett
•July 2011 --- "I Don't Want To Die All Alone" by Joseph F. Henderson
•Aug. 2011 --- "Crack, Love N Pain" by Rod Harvey
•Sept. 2011 --- "Yearning For Control" by Andre Johnson
•Oct. 2011 --- "The Silence of the Lambs" by Thomas Harris
•Nov. 2011 --- "Overwhelmed" by Rita B. Davis
•Dec. 2011 --- "Distracted In Natchez" by Joe Shelton

To find a complete listing of 2011's selections or additional information about the Best of Mississippi campaign, visit www.best-of-ms.com. You can contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Information about his other projects can be found at www.cyruswebb.com.

Conversations Delivers Book Donation For Project In Costa Rica

2011-03-04T02:21:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the support of its literary partners, Conversations Book Club was able to donate over $500 in brand new books to a book drive benefiting the Peace Corps' work in Costa Rica this week.

"We were excited to be a part of this amazing project," says Brandon, MS native Cyrus Webb, President of Conversations Book Club. The co-ed reading group was established in November 2006 to connect authors with readers, and over the years it has hosted over 90 author-related events throughout the country. Webb, 35,read about the project in the Rankin Ledger and knew it was something he had to support.

Thanks to the willingness of authors Barbara Worton and Robert Brown of Great Little Books as well as author Jackie Carpenter of Xulon Press, Webb was able to box up about 30 new books and deliver them to Cups of Brandon on Monday, February 28, 2011 for the drive.

"This is the least we can do to help a great cause," says Webb. "It really just shows what we can do when we work together."

To see how you can assist, contact Peace Corps volunteer and Brandon, MS native Meredith Burgess at mburgess@gmail.com. To find out more informaiton about Conversations Book Club visit www.thebestbookclub.info or contact Cyrus Webb by email at cawebb4@juno.com or at 601.896.5616. You can also keep up with him at www.cyruswebb.com.

Mississippi's Newest Author Examines The Complexity of Love In Debut

2011-03-01T04:52:00.000-08:00

by Cyrus Webb

The state of Mississippi is giving birth to another author during the month of March 2011. His name is AnDerecco of Jackson, MS (by way of Wayne County, MS), and he is preparing for the release of his debut novel Who Can I Run To?

The book which was initially written in 1999 is in many ways a coming of age story of not only falling in love, but dealing with the consequences and challenges that love sometimes brings with it.

In Who Can I Run To?, college roommates Jacob & Ellis become instant friends and lovers. They are truly in love with each other and they are raising a precious little girl together. Then problems begin to arise. Jacob has a past that will not leave him alone. In the midst of confusion, Jacob finds himself running to the wrong person. In the end, someone may pay the ultimate price.

Though the author says the book is not based entirely on his life, he can relate to the character Jacob and some of the issues that he experiences. Written in script form and marrying the styles of bestselling authors E. Lynn Harris and James Earl Hardy, AnDerecco believes his book has a message that needs to be heard. "I hope people will see that love has no gender," he says. "Love is different for everybody. We should get to know the person and not just what you see them to be."

Look for the book to be available through online retailers and select bookstores. For more information about the author, visit www.facebook.com/anderecco or www.twitter.com/anderecco. You can also email him at anderecco@gmail.com.

Fashion Designer & Jackson, MS Resident Gail Ambeau Heads To Fashion Week

2011-02-07T09:56:00.001-08:00

by Cyrus Webb

(Monday, February 7, 2011) For Fashion designer/stylist Gail Rayford Ambeau, this week marks another milestone in her remarkable journey. The Jackson,MS resident will be making her way to New York on Friday, February 11, 2011 to attend the Mercedes Benz fashion week events.

"For the past 5 years I've been saying I'm going to fashion week," says Ambeau "I didn't know how or when but, I knew I was going! Well that time is here. I am so excited. I really have no words. I'm just so thankful!"

The invitation to attend the events came through the Academy of Art University of which Ambeau is a student in their MFA Fashion program. In fact, it is the only school that participates in Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.

"I'll have a chance to see what it's really about, Ambeau says, but she is certain this will be only the first trip to the coveted event. "I'm telling you now... in a few years I'll be back at fashion week except the next time I go I'll be the one showing."

Find out more about Ambeau's designs and her bio at www.gailrayfordambeau.com. She can also be reached at askambeau@aol.com and 601.500.0937.

UNCAGED ENTERTAINMENT: Unleashing The South's New Talent

2011-01-26T09:49:00.001-08:00

by Cyrus Webb

At a time when most of the music industry is looking to emulate the sounds and successes of others, Mississippi-based Uncaged Entertainment (5430 Executive Place *Jackson, MS 39206) is working hard to go outside of the ordinaary and create something original.

Under the leadership of founders Ace(31)and Aaron Woods (32), the label began in May 2010 with a simple agenda: change the entertainment game and allow Mississippi's talent to shine.

"When it comes to Uncaged, we are all about allowing the artist to be true to themselves and put out what is really in their heart and mind," says Ace. "We provide the platform and the opportunity, but it's the artists dream that we want to see come true."

So far those seeing their dreams become a reality with Uncaged include Mr. Dis-Kret, Los, C-Bollz and Thoroughbred.
The label's focus currently is producing quality Hip Hop and R&B that speaks to the people.

Joining the two founders of Uncaged is Stanley Clark of the Marketing organization For The People Productions. For Clark, the label's passion for music and quality are the main reasons why it will succeed. "Uncaged is doing what very few people in the industry are willing to do," he says. "They are putting their resources where they belong and creating a team that is not only close knit but have the entire team's interests in mind."

What is Uncaged Message to aspiring artists and the world? "We are here to give you waht you have been looking for but haven't been able to find," says Ace. "Uncaged might be based in the South, but we have a universal feel that is all about unleashing the talent of our artists. With us, there is no limit to where we can go."

For more information about Uncaged Entertainment, visit www.uncagedent.com or contact Stanley Clark at 773.315.9286.

Author Alean McIntyre Adams: Traveling Through Pisga and Beyond

2011-01-21T09:38:00.001-08:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Book Club/Conversations Magazine

At the age of 75, Mississippi author Alean McIntyre Adams has seen more than her fair share of change in Mississippi and around the world. In her new book WAY BEYOND PISGAH, she takes readers into the journey that has been her life and allows us to see how the events she has lived through have shaped the woman she has become.

While talking with Adams, it is impossible to deny her excitement for life. She explained to me that she was always a person who questioned things instead of just accepting whatever she was told. "I knew there had to be a better way of life," she says. "God wouldn't want it to be that way."

"That way" growing up was in a segregated world in Mississippi. She saw alot of prejudice, but thanks to strong people like her mother around her, the young girl knew that better days were possible. "My mother told me that we could do anything," she reflects, and that was something that she never forget.

Throughout her childhood and into her adulthood, Alean Adams fought against the challenges she was faced with and realized what was possible with hard work and dedication. To her, though, she was just doing what she knew was right. "I was doing what I did for my family and to make the world a better place," she told me. She hopes her book will allow younger generations to see that progress that has been made, what it took to bring about change and realize their role in keeping it going.

An important chapter in Adams' life was her work in the Civil Rights movement. The reader gets a chance to see why some felt the need to speak up and out about the injustice they saw, and the results of such action. You are also able to see how fear of the unknown kept others from moving forward. In the end, though, it is a culmination of all of the events of her life that makes Alean who she is.

And the meaning of the book title? In the book the author tells of an experience when she was visiting a doctor and he commented on her use of correct English. In the exchange with her he made the statement that she probably hadn't been away from Pisgah. Today the author has been far from Pisgah, traveling around the world, and that is what is possible for others to attain as well.

Adams doesn't allow others to dictate the course of her life. She realizes that she has the power to bring about the life she wants. What better message than that to share with others!

For more information about Alean McIntyre Adams and her book, contact her at 601.829.2702.

In Mississippi the book can be found at Milestone Christian Bookstore in Pearl, MS and available to everyone by mail order.

Recording Artist Thoroughbred: Using Music To Drive Into Her Destiny

2011-01-18T08:19:00.000-08:00

by Cyrus Webb

Her lyrical journey began in 2001 with poetry and storytelling. Now recording artist Toya Stevenson known musically as Thoroughbred is determined to make her mark as a serious artist making serious moves.

Talking with her you get a feel of not just her confidence but her determination,too. Thoroughbred says her love of music began at the age of two. "Music was something that soothes me then and still does today," she says. "It is one thing that has never let me down."

What started as an outlet for her personal feelings took on a larger meaning when she saw the way her words and music affected other people. "So many people who I thought were perfect were just like me," she says. "That is when I knew I was making a difference. I was able to see that through music I could help other people realize that they weren't alone. There are literally people all around the world that share the same problems and feelings."

At a time when the music industry is hearing the likes of Nikki Minaj, Trina, Angie Stone and more, Thoroughbred feels that such a strong female influence is a positive, not a negative. "When you have so many influences, it's easier to be yourself," she says. "Each person in the game right now is a little different, but they each play a different part in my life. I am able to stay different just by being honest and expressing myself. I'm willing to put myself out there. The women artists that came out before me have actually made it easier. They have broken down some doors that we up-and-coming artists couldn't have done. That's why I feel we owe them so much gratitude."

Over the years, Thoroughbred has not just shared her love of music and her voice with the world. She has given her heart as well. In September 2007 she founded a biker group called Biker Buddies Motorcyle Club which now has 12 members. "We're really more than just female bikers," says Thoroughbred. "I feel that we should be called an empowerment group, because we all feed into each other. Six of the women are entreprenuers, two are educators and two provide health care services. All collectively make up one powerful spirit."

Thoroughbred believes there is a larger message that the group provides. "We help each other," she says. "If women come together we can do anything. With enough women, we can get things done. This goes beyond the biking. It's about what each person brings to the table, not just for ourselves but the next generations to come."

Of all the endeavors she is involved in, what is one of Thoroughbred's goals for 2011? "I want at least 5 million people to hear one of my songs," she says. That's my goal. Regardless of what else comes my way though, I am living out my dream. It doesn't matter how big or small it may look to others. I think it is all about being happy doing what you are doing, and I am happy."

Singles to look out for are "I Got This" which is about overcoming obstacles in your life and "I Miss You."

To find out more about Thoroughbred, visit www.uncagedent.com. She can also be reached by email at thoroughbredmusik@gmail.com. For information on bookings or appearances, contact Stanley Clark at 1.773.315.9286 or call 601.497.1985.

Young Money's Lil' Chuckee Visits Mississippi To Promote Reading

2011-01-12T04:50:00.001-08:00

(Wednesday, January 12, 2011) Kernell Reynolds of TRU Records and Lil' Chuckee of Cash Money's Young Money have teamed up with Shadow Play Entertainment's literacy campaign Hip Hop and Books (www.hiphopandbooks.net) to encourage the importance of reading. As part of the partnership, both Reynolds and Lil' Chuckee will be visiting Mississippi Feb. 23-25, 2011 to promote the importance of reading among public school students and even on college campuses.

"It's great to have public figures like these two sharing the importance of reading," says Cyrus Webb, Founder of the Hip Hop and Books coalition. Webb,a Mississippi native has hosted several other events with the literacy campaign including with Platinum-selling recording artist/bestselling author Corey "C-Murder" Miller. "I think Kernell and Lil' Chuckee's willingness to come to our state and show that it is cool to read no matter what profession you choose is important."

Reynolds, who has been a part of the Hip Hop and Books coalition since 2007, agrees with Webb. "It's a known fact that young people look up to those in the entertainment community, especially those in music," he says. "Lil' Chuckee and I realize the influence we have, and we want to make sure we are using our celebrity for good."

For interviews and more details about the trip, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Organizations and businesses looking to partner with TRU Records and Lil' Chuckee in the Mississippi trip in sponsorship opportunities can contact Kernell Reynolds at kernellstacks@gmail.com or 504.915.8581. Additional information about Hip Hop and Books can be found at www.hiphopandbooks.net.

Author Jackie Carpenter's Visit To Mississippi: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2011-01-09T04:36:00.001-08:00

(Saturday, January 8, 2011) Day two with author Jackie Carpenter completed what was an amazing visit of inspiration, hope and the assurance of the light at the end of the tunnel of whatever we are going through.

NOTE: If you missed the report from Day 1 of Jackie's visit to Mississippi, read it here: http://conversationsbookclub.blogspot.com/2011/01/frijan-7-2011-cbc-report-author-jackie.html

Cyrus Webb of Conversations Book Club began the day at the Crossgates area Subway Restaurant discussing the message of Carpenter's book THE BRIDGE and the importance of faith when it comes to challenges in life.

Joining the conversation was long-time friend of the book club Jennifer Vess.

From there it was on the Pearl Public Library where for two straight hours, Jackie was able to meet patrons and library employees, sharing her book and what she hopes they take away from it.

OVER 30 COPIES of THE BRIDGE made its way into the hands of individuals who seemed excited to not only meet the author but take home something that could help them as they deal with their own problems in life.

Conversations Book Club wishes to personally thank Ramesh Gajjar and the staff at Subway Crossgates in Brandon, the staff of the Pearl Public Library, book club supporter Annette Brown and all those who made day two of this literary event a success.

To find out more about Jackie and her book, visit www.bridgetoamiracle.com. To stay abreast of other events hosted by Conversations Book Club, visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

(Fri. Jan. 7, 2011) Author Jackie Carpenter's Visit To Mississippi, Day 1

2011-01-08T02:14:00.000-08:00

(Friday, January 7, 2011) Shadow Play Entertainment and Conversations Book Club welcomed Jackie Carpenter, author of THE BRIDGE, to Mississippi on Friday, January 7, 2011 to begin her two day promotion of the book and how her faith helped guide her through a dark chapter of her life.

Hosted by Conversations' President Cyrus Webb and co-sponsored by Stanley Clark of For The People Productions, the day began at Medgar Evers Library in South Jackson. There Carpenter shared snippets of her life story and how the inspiration for the book came about.

Those in attendance listened intently as she explained that it was never her intention to become an author, but God had other plans.
Before leaving the library, she also donated a copy of her book to them so it can be shared with the patrons.

While in Jackson, Webb and Carpenter stopped by Clear Channel's radio offices to drop off a copy of the book for Nikki Dulaney of Hallelujah 95.5 FM for consideration for her book club selections.

From there, the group was on its way to Pearl, MS where Webb introduced Carpenter to some of the staff at the Pearl Public Library, and she donated copies of her book THE BRIDGE to them for use by their patrons.

As it would be, Conversations Book Club supporter and evangelist Diane Johnston was also present at the library, and was able to get a copy of Carpenter's book as well!

Next stop was Milestone Christian Bookstore where Carpenter was able to talk with management about her book and even laid the groundwork for a future signing at the stop when she returns to Mississippi!

The final stop of the day was at DSI, the renal center where Webb's grandmother is on dialysis. Several nurses from the Mississippi State Hospital had expressed interest to Webb about their love of books, and he was able to introduce them to the visiting author, share her book and the message she hopes they get from it.

The overall message that Jackie Carpenter shared was this: "I had to go through the test in order to have a testimony, and I had to endure the mess so I could have a message." What an incredible way to look at tests and trials that we all go through!

Find out more about Jackie Carpenter and her inspiring book at www.bridgetoamiracle.com. Shadow Play Entertainment and For The People Productions thanks the author, her family and everyone who shared the day with them. Day Two will include events in Brandon and Pearl, Mississippi. Details can be found at www.thebestbookclub.info.

Popular Song By Cash Money Inspires New Anthem To Promote Reading

2010-12-29T02:51:00.000-08:00

(Wednesday, December 29, 2010) When Shadow Play Entertainment President Cyrus Webb began looking for a theme song to promote its literacy campaign for 2011, he didn't have to go any further than two of his friends that shared his passion for encouraging reading: Herschel Dixon of Louisville, KY and Chris Ervin aka Dj Down South of Raleigh, MS.

"As a father, Herschel has made books a large part of his daughters' lives," says Webb, 35. "He came to me with the idea to rewrite Cash Money's popular song "Get Your Roll On" to promote reading among young people as part of our Hip Hop and Books Campaign. It made perfect sense, and from there we got together and wrote the song. The only thing left to do was get someone to record it."

Choosing Dj Down South was a no-brainer for Webb. "Down South had been a part of our Hip Hop and Books literacy campaign since I co-founded it in 2008 with Platinum-selling recording artist and bestselling author Corey "C-Murder" Miller in 2008," says Webb. "He saw what we were trying to do, and the rest is history."

The song "Get Your Read On" will be used as the theme for not just the Hip Hop and Books campaign but Webb's entire initiative to encourage reading among all age groups and backgrounds. "We have to do whatever it takes to get people enjoying books again," says Webb. "This song is just one part of my plan to do that in 2011. I am already working on a video for Youtube featuring the song, and we are gathering an impressive body of influential individuals together to promote reading's importance as well."

Celebrities that have already joined the campaign include actress/director/author Cherie Johnson (Punky Brewster/Family Matters), actor/author/recording artist Tray Chaney (HBO's The Wire), Vanessa and Angela Simmons (Pastry), recording artists Fizz and Booz and many more.

"Get Your Read On" is available for free download at www.esnips.com/web/getyourreadon. Webb hopes that people will share the song and use it as a catalyst to make books a part of their daily lives.

For more information about Shadow Play Entertainment's literacy campaign, visit www.hiphopandbooks.net, www.taketimetoread.com or contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Carlito' Santino': Rapping Truth While Repping Mississippi

2010-12-28T02:38:00.000-08:00

by Cyrus Webb

For recording artist Carlos Sims aka Carlito' Santino' (formerly Jokah da General), life has come full circle. The Mississippi native is seeing his hard work pay off in a big way, and that is helping him in fulfulling some of his goals in life.

It seemed inevitable that music would be a big part of his life as an adult. "I knew I wanted to be a performer at a young age," says the 29 year old native of Jackson, Mississippi. "I would be watching Michael Jackson on tv. He was preforming the song "Rock With You", and I said then that performing was what I wanted to do. I grew up listening to music. My mom played alot of music at family gathering, and I couldn't help but start dancing to it. It spoke to me."

Carlito' has gone from dancing to singing and evenutally rapping, not giving up one for the other--but allowing them to co-exist within him.

What surprises him the most about the music he creates? "The fact that I have been able to find audiences of all ages, including what are considered older people," he says. "My music is diverse, and that has been true of my listeners as well. It's the power of the music and how it speaks to the person that makes them listen."

Coming from a state that is known for great talent, Carlito' does find it frustrating that independent recording artists like himself are not always supported by their hometown, whether in events that are going on or even on the radio. "It seems that other states work more together, like in New York and Georgia. I feel like this: even if you don't like each other personally, you should want to support the talent because it's homegrown. We as artists dictate a lot of things in our community. For us not to work together and show unity can bring division into the city, and that's not good."

Since he brought up division, I couldn't let the opportunity pass to ask Carlito about how he balances the business side of the music industry and his responsibility to be a positive influence. "It's kinda hard to balance the two," he responded, "but the important thing for me is being honest. I speak reality rap. Some reality is good, some is not. I do, however, make positive songs and give real messages in my music as well. You better believe that when I open my mouth to speak, there is a always a lesson to be learned by what I say."

For Carlito' Santino', the future seems bright. He is currently working on a solo project, but he is also involved in his group Jack Squad. Carlito' is also a member of the Shadow Play Entertainment family and supports its literacy campaign Hip Hop and Books which gets music lovers involved in reading (see www.hiphopandbooks.net).

For more information, Carlito' can be reached by email at muzic4dapeople@yahoo.com or at 769.251.3308. Download Jack Squad's song "Welcome 2 Da Jack" for free here: www.esnips.com/web/welcome2dajack

Fashion Designer/Stylist Gail Ambeau Enters 2011 With New Expectations

2010-12-27T04:00:00.000-08:00

by Cyrus Webb

(Monday, December 27, 2010) For Toledo, OH native Gail Ambeau, 2010 has been an exciting journey on the path of achieving her dreams. Everything the fashion designer/stylist/radio show host touched over the past 12 months has seemed to succeed, taking her to fashion week events, hosting her own weekly fashion segment and even having her designs featured on a recording artist's cd cover! As Shadow Play Entertainment is celebrating 2011 as a year of new beginnings, Ambeau is celebrating her newest adventure: being accepted into the Master of Fine Arts Graduate Program!

"I am so excited to be accepted into the graduate program at Academy of Art," says Ambeau. "It has taken me a while to get here, but I don't think I would have made it before now."

The MFA fashion masters degree curriculum refines and focuses the fashion graduate school candidate's individual vision. MFA candidates are prepared to launch themselves into the industry upon graduating. It is the only school invited to participate in Mercedes Benz New York Fashion Week in Bryant Park. The Academy of Art University has showcased graduate collections during fashion week since 2005. The Academy of Art University has one of the top fashion schools in the nation, with the most famous show in the industry.

"My past experiences have gotten me to this point," says Ambeau. I mean really...I've been out of school for 21 years. I had to sell myself. I mean really prove to them that I was worthy of being a part of their graduate program. I was sweating bullets trying to pull everything together."

The hard work paid off for the self-taught designer that has now worked with Grammy winners, nationally recogized models and had her work featured from coast to coast. In evaluating her work, her portfolio reviews stated: "Gail’s work to date is impressive in a dramatic sense and we are excited to see her explore The World of Fashion at the Academy of Art University. Her three dimensional skills appear to have a keen sense and knowledge of the body".

Gail, who now lives in Jackson, MS, will be attending school from home via the internet. "The online aspect of their program was very appealing to me," she says. "It will allow me to pursue my dreams and goals, while maintaining stability for my family. I am enthusiastic about the knowledge that I will gain through the Master of Fine Arts in Fashion program, as well as the hands on experiences that I can apply to Ambeau’s Art and Fashion."

As many are making their New Year's Resolutions, Gail has this piece of advice for anyone who thinks they can't achieve their goals and live their dreams: "All I can say is it's never too late. I am living in faithfulness on the edge of excitement on purpose everyday!"

To find out more about Gail Ambeau and her company, visit www.gailrayfordambeau.com.

Mississippi Native Encourages Others To "Take Time To Read"

2010-12-27T02:25:00.001-08:00

(Monday, December 27, 2010) Though a lover of books all of his life, 35 year old Mississippi native Cyrus Webb didn't realize the true importance of words until his adult years. "For me reading was a means of escape and a way to learn about the world," he says. "Today I realize that in many cases it can be the deciding factor between success and failure."

Because of this, in 2006 Webb began what has become the United States largest co-ed reading group, Conversations Book Club. Over the past four years it has hosted literary events across the country, creating spin-offs that embrace sports and music lovers. To date Conversations Book Club has hosted free events featuring 93 authors in Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee and Georgia. "We are all about encouraging reading," says Webb. "Since that is our aim, we have to be all things to all people to get them involved."

Since Mississippi still ranks at the top of the list when it comes to illiteracy, Webb feels obligated to focus his main literary efforts at home. His organization Shadow Play Entertainment recently announced its theme for 2011 as "A Year Of New Beginnings". Though this applies to various areas in life, for Webb, helping others to fall in love with books is at the top of his list of priorities.

On Thursday, December 30, 2010, Webb will be visiting two libraries sharing his organizations message for the New Year and giving out free books for all ages to help others get started reading as soon as possible. From 10-12p.m., he will be at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Rd * Pearl, MS) and from 1-3p.m., he will be at the Margaret Walker Alexander Library (2525 Robinson St. * Jackson, MS). The books have been donated by Shadow Play Entertainment, Great Little Books, LLC and author Jackie Carpenter.

Webb also encourages individuals to visit his webpage www.taketimetoread.com and sign the pledge committing to reading in 2011.

For more information about events scheduled by Conversations Book Club around the United States, visit www.thebestbookclub.info. Cyrus Webb can be reached at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. His website is www.cyruswebb.com.

PROFILE: Recording artist Mario Perdue aka Big Pap

2010-12-06T07:06:00.000-08:00

by Cyrus Webb

For over a decade Mississippi resident Mario Perdue (aka Big Pap Da Trap) has been active using his musical skills to make a difference in the Magnolia State and beyond.
Beginning with street team work for Platnium Promotion, he showed his ability to work with others and to support the dreams of those who shared his love for music.

Over his career he has worked with various groups, recording an album called FAMILY TIEZ with Next of Kindredz in 2002, being a part of shows with major artists Lil Boosie, P.N.C., Hot Boy Ronald and others.

He started DMH (Dirty Muzik House Ent.) wth a friend, getting involved in the business side of the music game and went on in 2007 to form his record lable D.I.G. M.E. (Dis Is Good Music Entertainment) in 2007. Since that time he has focused not only on the careers of his artists, but given back to the community as well. .

In 2006 he hosted the Youth "State of Emergency" Bash in Jackson, MS and performed for the Stop the Teen Violence Benefit the same year.
He has also been featured in Da Capitol City Summer Jam in 2009 and taken his message of following your dreams into the classrooms with Shadow Play Entertainment in 2010.

Throughout it all, Big Pap has remained true to himself, knowing that in the end, that is the only thing that will keep him relevant in the ever-changing industry. In the new year, you can expect him to continue pursuing his love of music, growing his company and trying to make Mississippi a more respected place.

For more information, contact Big Pap at disisgoodmusic@yahoo.com, 601.720.5171 or Friend him on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/bigpapdatrap.

Mississippi Native Stesses Education Not Ignorance When Dealing With Muslims and the Islam Faith

2010-09-06T06:32:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Magazine (http://www.conversationsmag.com)

The brewing controversy over the proposed mosque near the site of Ground Zero in New York and the scheduled burning of the Koran in Florida on September 11, 2010 has sparked conversation worldwide among Muslims and Non-Muslims alike. In Mississippi, Jackson native, author and Muslim Joseph Henderson is concerned about the message that is being sent about his religion.

"I was not exposed to any other faith or religion growing up," says Henderson, 42. "The Muslim faith appealed to me because of the tolerence it taught, its messages about how to live and even on how we ought to treat each other." He has been practicing his faith for over 20 years. In his autobiographer I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE, he chronicles his journey in life, his road to redemption and the role faith played in his making a transformation.

Ironically, the very teachings that Henderson praises in the Muslim faith seem to be lacking among detractors and those with growing animosity towards Islam. Who does Joseph look to for guidance? It's Jesus. "We all look at Jesus as being the greatest figure, teacher and role model to walk the earth," he says. "Jesus embodied how we ought to live. That is what real Muslims believe."

When hearing about what is going on right now in America concerning Muslims, Joseph says this: "People truly have a lack of understanding of what Islam is really about and what Islam really means. If they wish to look at the trueness in contrast to what so-called extremeist are representing, that will help them to best understand what is the truth." Joseph also warns against painting an entire religion by a broad brush. "They see what a few people are doing that is negative and makes Muslims as a whole look bad. That's unfair. If we applied that standard to all religions, no one would be able to get along."

Probably one of the most troubling acts is yet to come: the threatening of the burning of the Muslim's holy book the Koran. "I see that as an insult not just to Muslims, but an insult to mankind," says Henderson. "When God sends scripture, he sends it for mankind to live by. To burn something that He has establishehd for humanity is like disrepecting him. This is why you have to respect all scripture: the Bible and the Koran."

One of the great things that is happening as a result of all of the controversy and uproars across the United States is the dialogue that seems to be taking place. Joseph says that could be a plus if the opportunity is not missed. "If people would do their own studying or their own inquiring on Islam and not listen to the negative, they will be able to form their own opinions about what is true and false. Then they will see that we all serve the same God."

For additional information about Joseph Henderson, visit www.joseph-henderson.com. Cyrus Webb can be reached via email at cawebb4@juno.com or at 601.896.5616.

Nigeria's U.D. Abdul Kareem: Encouraging Reading One Person At A Time

2010-09-06T06:29:00.000-07:00

When it comes to the importance of reading, U.D. Abdul Kareem knows firsthand it can mean the difference between success and failure. The 33 year old native of Kaara vilage in Nigeria currently lives in Bonny Island, Nigeria where he is in the Nigerian Navy. This year he is celebrating the release of his debut novel AFRICAN COWBOY. He talks with Cyrus Webb of Conversations Magazine about hs life, his love of reading and what he hopes his book does to inspire others.

(As a member of the Shadow Play Entertainment family, U.D. Abdul has also joined the TAKE TIME TO READ campaign. See details at www.taketimetoread.com)

UD, you come from a large family. How many brothers and sisters do you have?
I am from a polygamous family of 35. My father married four wives and had 21 males and 14 females. I'm the ninth of eleven children of my mother. I had eight sisters and three brothers.

Looking at your country, what population of Nigeria do you believe can't read or write well?
According to the current census by UNICEF, the Nigerian population that can not read or write are 57.1%.

How important is reading to you?
Reading is the only secret in which you can know others' intention, motives, feelings and information. I always create time to read books, newspapers and magazines despite the schedule of my life. Some information is entertaining while other is educational. I love reading. I believe more of what I read than what I heard. If you want to know what happened years ago or how to do something that is difficult for you to understand, go through books.

What made you decide to write the book African Cowboy?
I decided to write African Cowboy to share my experience with the rest of the world, which illustrates nagative view of gender discrimination, the importance of education and the terrible effect of illiteracy, especially to the developing and under-developped countries where education is regarded less importance. It's not my autobiography, but it's a true life story.

What do you hope people get from your book?
I want people to understand that female or male children deserve equal rights. No one is better than the other. The major character of the story "Bappa" mistreated one of his daughters and eventually as life goes on, he came to look for a job from her to survive not knowing that she is his daughter. She saved his life while he was at the point of death. If you train a female child she can equally do even better than the males.

The second message that I want people to get from African Cowboy is to bear in mind that the sky is the limit to the educated person, while illiterate persons have very limited opportunities. Illiteracy kills talents, dreams and creates inferiority complex and restrict freedom of expression.

What do you think people in the United States and around the world can do to help address the problem of illiteracy?
You know, the must difficult aspect of success is the first step, because the first thing you'll encounter at the first move is a challenge. That is where a coward would back off. It is only the hero that can face the challenge and conquer. What I'm trying to say is that someone has already made a move to fight this terrible epidemic {illiteracy}not only in the United states but all over the world, and that is Cyrus Webb. Mr Cyrus has already paved the way to fight illiteracy all over the world. All what we need to do is to give him a maximum support.

Governments and other agences such as UNICEF and the rest, should work together to achieve one goal. Something urgent need to be done to tackle illiteracy in the world, especially in African countries. We that are privileged to be literate can not fold our arms seeing others suffering without any effort to rescue them. It's a collective war. Let everybody contribute in one way or the other. If you can rescue only one person from illiteracy God will definitely reward you for that.

Thank you for the compliment, U.D. and for taking out the time to talk with us. How can our readers find out more information about you and the book.
You can go to my Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000209190857. You can find out more about the book and get your copy here: http://www.strategicpublishinggroup.com/title/AfricanCowboy.html

Dem Raleigh Boyz: Creating Art With Rhyme, Skills and Drive

2010-08-18T06:45:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Magazine

It all began while they were together on the high school football team at Raleigh High School in Mississippi. One day in the locker room Darrell Ashley aka GB approached Chris Ervin aka Dj Down South and asked him about his love of music and where he was trying to get in making it a career. DJ Down South then invited GB to record at his home studio. Some time later while working on GB's Debut album 'Tripnosis' and Dj Down South's mixtape 'Get to Know Me vol. 1', GB invited his long time friend Russell Clark aka Big Blaze to a recording session. After seeing that they all had the common goal of taking their dreams and making them a reality, they formed the group Dem Raleigh Boyz.

Now with a real drive and determination to succeed, Dem Raleigh Boyz is ready to do what it takes to get themselves heard. They took out time from their recording to talk about their influences, where they see themselves headed, and how they are getting the word out about their music and creating a solid fanbase without radio play.

* Thanks guys for taking out the time to talk with me. I know you all are busy, but I'm sure our readers will appreciate this opportunity. Who would you each say are your influences?
Dj Down South: Kurt Cobain, Bob Marley, Ice Cube, Eazy E, Jimi Hendrix, Augustana, Danielle Ate The Sandwich, Tupac, and Bone Thugs -N- Harmony. I grew up listening to 50's, 60's, and early 70's music as a kid. I have a lot of respect for that music and the artists that contributed! I still listen to those classic tracks and some of my favorite songs are from that era.

Big Blaze: There are many great artists out there, But in an attempt to keep a unique sound, I try not to be influenced by them. Our generation says they want to be unique and different, But a lot of today's artists still share the same sound.

GB: I would have to say the ones that influenced me the most was Bone thugs -n- Harmony, Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, T.I, Young Jeezy, Ludacris, an Emenim. I think having an eclectic ear contributes to Dem Raleigh Boyz unique sound, and versatile lyrics. Just being open to multiple genres and having respect for their art.

* Music is something that is seen by many as a unifying force. What does music do to you all, and how is your sound different?
Dj Down South: Music brings out the best in me, I love everything about music. I love learning new instruments, listening to new music and helping out other unsigned artist. I give a lot of my time to help young kids who show interest in the arts by volunteering my time so they become more confident in their talent.

Big Blaze: Music brings out the full spectrum of emotions in me. Music also brings me peace. That's what music is meant to do, inspire people to feel emotions and motivate them to do great things. I encourage everyone I meet to pick up music, because the only way music will survive is by being passed from one generation to another.

GB: Music is my way of expressing my feelings and having a good time. I love the feeling I get when people run up to me an ask me if I could get em a Dem Raleigh Boyz cd or if me an the boys would do a track with them.

* As three individuals, I know you all have your own personal style and personalities. How has it been coming together and working as one unit?
Dj Down South: It came really natural, as we continued to work in the studio we constantly hung out getting to know each other better and better. We all became inseparable and in that came the music became smoother and we are constantly improving.

* Being from Mississippi myself, I know that the South is sometimes guilty of sleeping on its own. How are you getting the word out about yourself, your music and building on your career?
Dj Down South: Our agent has been hard at work, unlocking various promotional opportunities. We get as much love as you would expect out of a small town in Mississippi. We are always meeting new people that love our music and get the word out to their friends and family. We always show our appreciation to them. We love all our fans!

* Radio play is another sensitive subject for some artists, especially independent ones. How is the internet helping you overcome what might be a slow process in that area?
Dj Down South: It's not how good you are, it's who you know. Radio has been a real challenge for us over the years. Our favorite line we got was from 99.7 WJMI, "We are here to play popular music, we are not here to make you popular." That didn't sit too well with my agent either (laughs). We currently use various internet resources to get our music out there such as ReverbNation (http://www.reverbnation.com/demraleighboyz) and Soundcloud (http://soundcloud.com/dem-raleigh-boyz).

* For some the recording process is the highlight of success for an artist. Others see performing in front of a live crowd as a crowning achievement. What about each of you?
Dj Down South: For me it is the whole experience in music, writing, recording, and performing. I love it all.

Big Blaze: I'd have to agree with DJ Down South. I love the whole process from finding a beat, writing a verse, recording it, and performing it.

GB: I would have to say I love everything about the music industry but I'm more about performing for my fans an givin them a show to remember I mean I owe it all to them an my lord an savior.

* When people hear your music, what do you hope they say about you as artists?
Dj Down South: We hope they see us the way we see ourselves, not as Rappers but as Recording Artists. The term 'Rapper' has become so bland and one sided. We see our music as art not Rap or Hip-Hop, not that there's anything wrong with Rap and Hip-Hop. We just don't see ourselves being limited by a genre where a lot of the time people have a predetermined expectation, regardless of the artist.

* What single is the group promoting right now?
Dj Down South: For our debut album 'Last Road Out' we are promoting Celebrity Life, Punk Kid Ft. NeyNey, and I Don't Mind. As for our 2nd CD that is in the works we are promoting Dat Kush Ft. Lil Wayne, Surf's Up, and Leave the Keys.

* What advice do you have up and coming artists trying to break out as well?
Dj Down South: As we said earlier, It's not how good you are, its who you know. It's tough to grab that concept at first, but its true. Meet as many people as you can and keep in contact. Do not give up on your dreams. Live your life your way and smile often!

* Thanks again for talking with us. How can our readers find out more about you and your music?
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dem-Raleigh-Boyz/108920409143093?ref=ts
http://www.reverbnation.com/demraleighboyz

KINESIS: Using Passion For Music To Teach By Example

2010-08-18T06:44:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb

Mississippi continues to give birth to some of the best and brightest in the world of entertainment. At the age of 25, Mississippi native Keith "Kinesis" Cole is showcasing the skills and discipline it takes to be good at whatever it is he pursues. When it comes to setting priorities, at the top of the list---third only to his love for God and his two daughters---is his love for making and performing good music.

"With music I am able to express myself and talk about the things I see everyday," he says. A native of Dekalb, Mississippi, Kinesis has been working on his craft for quite some time. "I think I was in the fifth or sixth grade when I started writing music and figured out that I had some real skill."

Though he has admired several artists over the years, Tupac, T. I. and Young Jeezy have been the main Hip Hop voices that Kinesis has been drawn to. "Since I rap, I don't really listen to alot of rap so I won't try and emulate what I hear," he says. "I listen to alot of R&B, but I respect the artists out there doing their thing."

As with any choice that a young person makes, the response has been mixed when it comes to the support Kinesis has seen in pursuing music. "Some of the family does support me," he admits, "but some people think that what I'm doing is a waste of time. I have a college degree, and they think I should be using it."

That degree was obtained at Jackson State University and was supposed to be the doorway for him to become a teacher. For Kinesis, though, he feels as though he is a teacher of life through his music, not just to the world but other young people around him, including his daughters.

What was the deciding factor in him not pursuing a "regular" job after college? Kinesis says that in 2007 he started to get real serious about music and building his brand as an artist. "I would spend all of my spare time on recording and promotional material," he says. "I was willing to give up so much, because I felt like God was going to give me all that I wanted. I just had to show that I had faith in myself. I wanted it so bad, and I was willing to do whatever it took."

One person who was in his corner in the beginning may not be around to physically see what he is accomplishing now, but Kinesis knows they are proud of him. That would be his mother who passed away on September 11, 2002: the same day his first daughter was born. "She was always in my corner," he says. "My mom was a big supporter of anything I did." That makes his making it in the music industry that more important.

Over the past few years Kinesis has laid the groundwork for a career that is reaching not just out of his hometown of Dekalb but the state of Mississippi altogether. He has performed in shows and had the privilege of hearing his music on the radio. What has it been like for him? Two words: a blessing.

"Each experience makes me even more hungy for this," Kinesis says. "When I am on stage or in the booth, I feel like I have won a championship when I finish. It's the kind of feeling you want when you are doing something you love."

Currently, Kinesis is promoting the singles "Ready to Ride" and "Clothes Off", and has joined Shadow Play Entertainment's literacy initiative called HIP HOP AND BOOKS which encourages reading among lovers of Hip Hop and R&B. "You have to give back," Kinesis says. "Organizations like Hip Hop and Books allows artists like me to stand shoulder to shoulder with others doing what I love and promote something positive like reading. Without the ability to read, you're lost. As a father, I realize that even more."

Speaking of his children, when asked about how he hopes his two daughters see Dad the Entertainer, Kinesis understands the balancing act he and other artists have to do. "I want them to be proud of what I do," he says. "I'm an entertainer, but I think I can also be a role model in the way I treat myself, my family and those around me."

Find out more about Kinesis at http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=657878252&ref=ts or www.shadowplayent.com. To schedule interviews, appearances or events with the artist, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

AUTHENTIC: Bringing A Unique Sound And Flavor To Hip Hop

2010-07-20T06:42:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb

The group's name says it all: Authentic. Members Shiest D, Jay R3d and Doja have been together musically for about three and a half years, but they are working together to create music and a brand that will be timeless for lovers of Hip Hop.

What began in 2007 by working on a mixtape together as solo artists has led to them landing a digital distribution deal with Island Def Jam for their single FALL IN. This however, seems to only be the beginning of a new chapter in the lyrical volume Authentic is penning. Three guys will their own style and different personalities have been joined by one goal: creating real music for themselves and the masses. No matter how different they sound apart, when they come together there is a doubt they were united in their desire to give their best and produce great music.

When asked what they hope they bring to the music industry and Hip Hop lovers, Authentic says it wanted to empower peope of all ages to go after their dreams. They also want to show that you can pursue your career and still not neglect your education. They can speak on this, because they are all attending school at Jackson State University in Jackson, MS.

To record their music is one thing, but how does it feel to perform it? Shiest D says its an incredible feeling. He also says that even though none of them thought they would be in a group, it is more comfortable to be on stage with others you know share your passion for what you are doing.

Hip Hop has had its detractors over the years, and Authentic believes that those who see the culture and its music as evil or empty of any actual mesage, should take some time and listen to what they are producing. They feel as though they are not just entertaining but educating as well. They also believe their positive message shows that you don't have to rap about things that aren't beneficial. You can have a unique point of view and show a better way of living.

The single that is getting all of the attention currently is FALL IN. It was written in 2009 for their new album and thanks to the buzz on Youtube, social networking sites and the day-to-day grind on the streets, it got the attention of Island Def Jam. Through the lyrics and the chorus, the guys of Authentic are letting the world know that they are here to stay and everyone needs to pay attention.

Now that a major label has taken notice and the song is available on I-Tunes, it is spreading the word and the group's fan base as well as giving them more promotion, opening doors for more opportunities, shows and the all important radio time.

Authentic hopes this will all lead to a major deal for their next album, but either way they are still working on their own company not just with music but entertainment as a whole. Their advice to others? "Follow your dreams. If you act upon them, everything will come into place."

For more information about the group, visit www.authentic.phxcomp.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/AuthenticIVLife or friend them on Facebook under "Authentic Fan Club".

Bestselling author Danielle Steel Writes Conversations Book Club President

2010-06-14T06:33:00.000-07:00

International Bestselling Author Danielle Steel Writes Conversations Book Club President
by Cyrus Webb

(Mon. June 14, 2010) One of the great things about what I do professionally is the opportunity to meet fascinating individuals who I in turn can introduce to my readers, listeners and viewers. Sometimes it is someone in the public eye but Conversations has also brought attention to ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things.

When it comes to writers, it is no secret to many who know me that I have a "Wish List" of authors who I would love to talk to about their journey and success. At the top of the list of those I haven't yet interviewed are Stephen King, Judith Krantz, Jackie Collins, Dean R. Koontz and Danielle Steel. Each of them have influenced the literary community in so many ways and thrilled millions of readers for years.

Recently I sent an email through Danielle Steel's website highlighting my feelings towards her books and what I feel as though she has done for individuals like myself who have traveled the world through her characters. She has over 70 titles in print, all of which have become bestsellers. I have read over 30 of her titles, and own 28 in my book collection (see below). Though I knew she is not quick to do interviews, I asked for what I believe is the third time for the opportunity to talk with her on my radio program. It was a long shot, but I am never afraid of a challenge.

Well, imagine my surprise when today I was opening my email and got the following from Ms. Steel herself:

"Dear Mr. Webb,

"Thank you so very much for your lovely letter about my books, which has
just been forwarded to me. I was very touched to hear how you have been
reading them for twenty years and what they have meant to you. It's a real honor
to hear that you run a book club and my work produces so many interesting
discussions. I write the stories with caring and heart, and I like to think
my readers enjoy them in the same spirit.

"I'm sorry that I almost never do interviews or public appearances, although
I do appreciate your kind invitation. Thank you again for sharing your
good words with me. I appreciate hearing from a reader like you, and I send
your book club my warm regards.

"With best wishes,

"Danielle Steel"

I can't really tell you what this email meant to me, but it really illustrates why I do what I do. You never know what you can accomplish with a little hard work. True, I still don't have my interview with Ms. Steel (not yet, at least), but my perseverence is definitely paying off. This is a lesson that I hope others will recognize in their own lives as well.

Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden of Peeples Middle School: Teaching From The Heart To Reach The Heart

2010-05-18T06:41:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb, Conversations Magazine/ Shadow Play Entertainment

She has been a teacher in the public school system for only two years. For Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden, however, her journey to being an educator at Peeples Middle School began many years ago. "It was bound to happen that I would end up teaching," she says with a smile. "When I was little, my grandma called me a school teacher." Referencing her mother and grandmother when it comes to what led her into the schools shows that her family was a major influence in her life. It was that push that led her into childcare first and now where she is today. "Learning has always been important to me."

Learning may have always been a priority, but during Mrs. Bolden's college years, there was some doubt. "I wasted some time," she admits, but in the end I looked at all of the hard work I had put it and knew I had to keep going in order to accomplish my goals."

That goal includes what she is doing today in Jackson, Mississippi. She teaches five classes of students, but anyone who spends time in her classroom know that it's a give and take that gets the students involved. How does she get and keep their attention? "If they know you have passion," says Mrs. Bolden,"they are going to recognize that you are doing this for them. I am a firm believer that if it comes from the heart it goes to the heart."

She also realizes its not just about talking at them. It takes getting involved in their lives as well. "I get respect from the students because I give it to them. I let them know I am here for them." Another thing that separates her classes from others is that she welomes the community's involvement through special guests. In 2010 along she has hosted several indivdiuals that have spoken to her students including Texas authors Jermnine Demouchette and Mr. Mean Mug, California author Herndon Davis and recording artist Lo Watts of Playa Connected. Mrs. Bolden says that this helps them to see that more than just the teachers and the school cares. They see the community and others outside their everyday circle care as well.

It is this attitude that makes her a favorite of those in her classes and a model for others in the public school system to emulate.

Students At Peeples Middle School (Jxn,MS) Share Their Truth In "What Makes Me ME"

2010-05-06T06:39:00.000-07:00

(Thurs. May 6, 2010) Since 1999 multi-media personality Cyrus Webb of Shadow Play Entertainment has been visiting schools throughout Mississippi sharing his message of hope with the students and the message that they can succeed at any cost.
On Tuesday, May 4th and Wed. May 5th, he along with recording artist Lo Watts of Playa Connected took the program called the Creative Arts Workshop into Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden's classes at Peeples Middle School. The objective? To show the students that they have more in common than most realize, but that doesn't have to hinder their success.

Over the two days, the students shared how their lives had been impacted by death, abuse, drugs, feelings of worthlessness and self esteem issues. During that same time, though, they also expressed hope for the future and their belief in their abilities to make a difference in the world.

On Day One of the workshop, Webb led the students in a writing exercise called "What Makes Me ME?" In their own words, they shared their experiences about events in their lives--both good and bad--that have shaped who they have become. They also discussed how they can begin working now to see changes in their community.

On Day Two the students participated in a revised version of musical chairs. Each class was assembled in the middle of the room. Webb asked them at the outset if there was one person in the class they thought they didn't have anything in common with. In each group, numerous hands shot up. Over the 5 periods that met on Wednesday, there were 65 students participating. Webb went on to tell them that he was going to ask a question, and if the question pertained to them, they should go and stand against the wall. Collectively, here were the results:

1) Have you had someone in your family or close to you die this year? 42 out of 65 responded yes.
2) Do you know someone in your family or among your friends that has been the victim of abuse? 9 of the 65 responded yes.
3) Does someone you know use or sell illegal drugs? 10 of the 65 responded yes.
4) Have you been picked on at school or know someone who has? 1 student responded yes.

Lo Watts also talked to some of the students about speaking out about what they are going through in life. "No matter what it is," he said, "you shouldn't hold it in."

Both Webb and Watts hope that their visits and similar ones at other schools will help open up a real conversation between students and the community. "I also want to show that all of us---whether we have children or not---have a responsibility to those molding our future," says Webb.

To find out more about what Cyrus Webb and his organization is doing to empower the youth, visit www.cyruswebb.com or www.shadowplayent.com.

Monique's Success Inspires Up-And-Coming Designer To Dream Big

2010-04-06T06:27:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for www.conversationsmag.com

It's not just those in the worlds of comedy, tv and movies that have found an inspiration in Academy Award-winning actress/comedian Monique. She has also encouraged an up-and-coming designer in Jackson, MS.

Wife, mother, grandmother, visual artist are just a few of the other hats that fashion designer Gail Rayford-Ambeau wears. In spite of the day to day challenges everyone faces, she has shown no signs of backing down or giving up. Instead she has joined aothers who are taking the bull by its horns and moving forward to their destiny. Just like one of her biggest sources of inspiration: Monique.

"When I look at what Monique has gone through and what she has achieved in spite of challenges," says Gail, "I can't help but think that if she could do it, then so can I."

Gail has been involved in art and fashion ever since she was five- years- old. As an eight-year-old student at Hawkins Elementary School in Toledo, Ohio a young Gail Rayford made her first complete outfit for her class show and tell. Dressed in a pair of purple pants made of that 1970’s 100 percent polyester, a matching denim vest and a hat that mixed both of the fabrics, Gail excitingly awaited her turn to show what she had crafted.

Almost 40 years later, that excitement contins. Today Gail is a fashion designer, stylist, radio show host, seamstress, visual artist and founder of Ambeau’s Art and Fashion. When many are saying that "Thin is in", like Monique, Gail is hoping to show that true beauty begins on the inside and can be visible in what one does---instead of what you look like on the outside.

In 2008 she hosted a fashion show in Jackson, MS with national recording artist and author Jacki-O as the special guest. In 2009 one of her garments was the key piece for national Gospel recording artist and Gospel Music Channel’s 2008 Gospel Dreams winner Melinda Watts debut video--- So Good. She also participated in the Florida Designers’ Expo which lead to styling model Tiffany Richardson from America’s Next Top Model (cycle 4) for a photo shoot with celebrity photographer Derek Blanks.

Her newest endeavors include motivational speaking and co-executive producer and host of Fashion Forward with Gail Ambeau on Conversations LIVE! Radio. She discusses fashion tips, trends to look out for and interviews celebrity guests. So far she has talked with actor and recording artist Tray Chaney (HBO's The Wire), singing sensations Willie Taylor (Day 26), Bertell and Abraham McDonald along with fashion designers Rami Kashou, Chris March and Laura Bennett from Project Runway fame.

At 45 years young, Gail may be a latecomer to the fashion industry, but she definitely believes that all things happen in God’s timing. “I can honestly say that it has not been easy but I have no regrets about the decisions that have been made thus far”. Her advice to those who aspire to follow their dream is to “first obey the voice of God, be willing to stick with it through the hard times to make it to the other side and be willing to give up some things.”

When she talks about who she would like in one of her designs, Monique's name always comes up. "I would love to show my appreciation for what she stands for to me," says Gail. "Monique represents for the everyday woman, especially the big girls like myself." For now she will continue to take each day as it comes, confident that dreams come true for those who believe.

Cyrus Webb is the Editor-In-Chief of Conversations Magazine and freelance writer. He can be reached at cawebb4@juno.com or at www.cyruswebb.com. Additional information about Gail can be found at www.gailrayfordambeau.com or at askambeau@aol.com.

LO AND YELLOW BOY: Staying "Connected" After Suffering Loss

2010-04-03T06:38:00.000-07:00

LO AND YELLOW BOY: Staying "Connected" After Suffering Loss
by Cyrus Webb

Music was the unifying force between the members of the Mississippi-based Hip Hop group known as Playa Connected---and its founder, Carl Watts aka C. Watts, was also the face of it's name. For years they had been working to get their music heard and build their brand as an independent voice in the streets; however, on Friday, February 26, 2010, the group was delivered a heart-breaking blow with the death of the man who was it's driving force. Carl Watts passed away at the young age of 33, leaving remaining members Yellow Boy (age 25), Lo (age 22), Shaud (age 20), Iceberg (age 20) and Lil Earl (age 19) behind with a difficult decision: would they press on or would Playa Connected die with its leader?

The answer was simple.

"Playa Connected lives on," says Lo, who was not just a member of the group but related to Watts. "C. Watts didn't get to see his dream fully realized, so it's up to us to make sure we take it as far as we can. We can't give up."

For Yellow Boy, it's just as personal. "It was Carl that got me into rapping. I saw his drive and the passion he had for music, and that inspired me to get into it. I'm even more determined now, because I'm doing it for him and for all of us."

(Carl Watts seen here just two days before his death on Fri. February 26, 2010) Carl Watts managed to inspire people in and outside of music. There were many things that could have sidelined him: dealing with a speech impediment, several health issues and in 2009 suffering the loss of his mother---yet he pushed onward, accomplishing more than some individuals twice his age. In 2008, C. Watts was invited to New Orleans to perform in front of major label executives during a music showcase. In 2009 the group was able to get some radio play of their song "Habit", and other songs like "Substitute" were creating a modest buzz as well.

"Music was a part of the way he dealt with what was going on around him," Lo explains. "With music he didn't stutter. It was as if that was when he was truly alive."

Both Lo and Yellow Boy agree that Carl also stressed the business side of the music industry as well, letting them know the importance of marketing and promoting. "If something was going on dealing with music," says Yellow Boy, "Carl was going to be there if he could. He believed in networking just as much as performing. It wsa about keeping the name out there and being seen."

The members of Playa Connected have also vowed to keep up the work their founder did outside of music,too. In 2008 Carl became involved in a literacy-based project called Hip Hop and Books. It was a unique campaign began by fellow Mississippi native Cyrus Webb and national recording artist C-Murder geared towards encouraging reading among the urban community. The events included not just books but music as well. In early 2010 it was announced that this year's National Spokesperson for Hip Hop and Books would be National Recording artist/author Jacki-O---someone who Carl was a big fan of.

(Watts seen here with Jacki-O in 2010) Watts and Jacki-O had met in 2008 when she was in Mississippi promoting her novel GROWN AND GANGSTA. In fact, the last post on Watts' Facebook page before he died was that he was reading her book.

"We were just talking about Jacki-O and the book the day he died," Lo recalls. "He was telling me how good it was and some of the things going on in it. It made me want to read it."

Though it hasn't been easy to go into the studio without the man who gave them their start, both Lo and Yellow Boy know they have a responsibility to do it not just for themselves but to show appreciation for C. Watts' memory and hard work.

"It's Playa Connected for life," says Lo, who has taken on the name Lo Watts in honor of his cousin and friend's memory. "We can't stop. Watts' music will live on in us all. We're going to make sure of it."

For more information about Lo and Yellow Boy, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.shadowplayent.com.

(Sun. March 7, 2010) Authors Ish Major, Rita B. Davis and Andre Johnson on This Webisode of The Write Stuff

2010-03-07T06:35:00.000-08:00

Cyrus Webb welcomes you to this edition of The Write Stuff, featuring authors Ish Major, Rita B. Davis and Andre Johnson.

In February 2010, Ish Major made his first visit to Mississippi to promote his book LITTLE WHITE WHYS. Hear what the response has been like and where you can find out additional information.

Cyrus Webb talks with Rita B. Davis about the pain of losing a child, her book OVERWHELMED the the lessons she thinks it imparts.

Watch Andre Johnson, author of YEARNING FOR CONTROL, talk about dealing with bipolar disorder, and what he hopes readers get from his book.

Missed other webisodes from The Write Stuff? Catch up by going to The Write Stuff website here.

Author H. Michael Harvey's Visit To Mississippi: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2010-02-21T06:37:00.000-08:00

Cyrus Webb of Conversations Book Club would like to thank those who made the visit of H. Michael Harvey, author of PAPER PUZZLE, a success in Mississippi on Saturday, February 20, 2010. The weather could not have been better, and the foundation has been laid for the message of the book and the mission of the author to be realized.

The day began at the historic Medgar Evers Branch Library in Jackson, Mississippi. There Michael and his wife met with members of the Mississippi Link newspaper as well as patrons.

From there is was on to the Pearl Public Library in Pearl, MS where the author met members of the staff and patrons who were excited about the visit.

Led by President Cyrus Webb, Harvey's visit is part of Conversations Book Club's promotion of reading and conversation among book lovers of all ages and backgrounds.

Paper Puzzle introduces dual protagonists, one white, Clay Moore managing editor of the town's daily newspaper and Jimmy Royal editor of the local black weekly tabloid. Both men as cub reporters covered a gangland styled murder and were pulled off the story by their publishers before anyone was brought to justice.

As time passes the two men kept thoughts of it in the back of region of their minds. Suddenly, Clay Moores' life is interrupted when he discovers news clippings from the gangland styled murder in his bed each morning. When Clay's security and career is threatened by a powerful federal judge he is forced to turn to the only other person who can help him solve the paper puzzle laying in his bed. He turns to Jimmy Royal and together the two reporters in the spirit of Woodard and Bernstein uncovers decades of injustice hidden neatly under the guise of the social mores of the times.

H. Michael Harvey is the third author to visit Mississippi this year as part of Conversations' "Read Well, Eat Well, Live Well" campaign designed to feed the needs of the entire individual. It is Webb's hope that such authors and their books will become discussion pieces long after the authors have come and gone.

To find out more about H. Michael Harvey, visit www.paperpuzzle.net. Details about Conversations Book Club can be found at www.thebestbookclub.info.

Best of Mississippi's Authors and Books

2009-12-25T18:19:00.000-08:00

Wal-Mart in Pearl, MS Participates in National Read for the Record Program

2009-10-07T12:16:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wal-Mart in Pearl, MS Participates in National Read for the Record Program

Contact: Cyrus A. Webb, President of Conversations Book Club

cawebb4@juno.com 601.896.5616

On Thursday, October 8, 2009 book lovers all across the United States will be participating in Jumpstart's "Read For The Record" campaign to encourage reading. MS native and Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb will be joining others in taking part at such an event at the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Pearl, MS from 10-12p.m.

"I am excited to take part in this life-changing event," says Webb, 34. He has worked with this particular Wal-Mart since January 2009 in promoting reading, choosing it to host a booksigning event for New York Times Bestselling author Carl Weber during his visit with Conversations Book Club. "Any opportunity to encourage reading and inspire children is what our organization is all about."

Jumpstart’s work with Walmart brings a critical retail presence to support Jumpstart’s Read for the Record, presented in partnership with Pearson, which shines a national spotlight on literacy by creating the largest shared reading experience.

Jumpstart’s Read for the Record is a celebration of reading, community service and fun to raise awareness about the importance of reading with young children to ensure they learn crucial early language and literacy skills to succeed in school and in life. The campaign also raises funding to support Jumpstart’s yearlong work with preschool children in low-income communities where Jumpstart is working toward the day all children enter school prepared to succeed. This year, Jumpstart’s Read for the Record has set out to break Jumpstart’s reading record as adults read the same book on the same day to more than one million children across the country.

The official campaign book for the 2009 Read for the Record is a special, limited edition of the Philomel Books classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle. The commemorative book includes a foreword with messages from Matt Lauer and Meredith Vieira of NBC’s TODAY Show, Tony-, Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning actress Mary Louise Parker, and entertainer, actor, author, recording artist, two-time Grammy Award winner, and NAACP Image Award winner, LL Cool J. Walmart stores nationwide are offering the official limited edition copy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar in support of Jumpstart's Read for the Record. All net proceeds from the book sales* will be donated to Jumpstart.

Jumpstart’s Read for the Record will be kicked off on October 8 on NBC’s TODAY Show with celebrity readers; the launch is followed by marquis events throughout the country in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Grass roots organizing efforts will also result in thousands of events planned in homes, schools, libraries, parks and community centers across the country.

Over the past three years, more than one million people have taken part in this record-breaking Campaign. Jumpstart’s Read for the Record has raised more than $3 million to support Jumpstart’s mission and more than 500,000 books have been donated to children in need.

This is one of many literary event Webb and his organization will be participating in across the country in October 2009 as part of The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign (see www.thewritestufftv.com).

To find out more about the overall event at the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Pearl, MS, call 601.939.0281. Webb can be reached using the information above.

The Literary Community Unites To Promote A National Day of Reading In Each State

2009-10-01T02:32:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Literary Community Unites To Promote A National Day of Reading In Each State

Contact: Cyrus A. Webb, Founder of The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign

cawebb4@juno.com / 601.896.5616

Earlier this year, ABC News reported that over 30 million Americans ages 16 and up were unable to read or write well. This proves what many have said for some time: Illiteracy is an epidemic that is spreading daily, claiming victims of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds.

Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign and their literary partners are excited to announce a historic event geared towards sharing the gift of reading and books across the United States under a show of united support in each state. On Saturday, November 21, 2009 between the hours of 10-6p.m., The Write Stuff founder and host Cyrus A. Webb is working with others in scheduling Reading Parties (see http://tinyurl.com/readingparties ) throughout the country geared towards 1) speaking in one voice in support of encouraging reading, 2) supporting local authors and their books and 3) providing a positive outlet that is sometimes overlooked with all the chaos going on in the world around us.

Each Reading Party will be designed for that particular area by that particular area. Webb and his supporters will only act as a means to promote the event and help strategize where their is a need for assistance. During the time frame selected by each Reading Party, there will be booksignings, book discussions or whatever seems appropriate to that host. The events are part of the Art, Books & Beats movement (www.artbooksandbeats.com) which combines the power of visual/literary art, books and music. Those participating will be listed online at www.thewritestufftv.com identified by their state along with what type of event they are hosting as well as the time of their event. All Reading Parties are free to the public.

If you are in a position to do so, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign is asking that you bring a new or used book to the event you attend. Book donations will benefit CityKids Foundation, Common Ground Foundation, Everybody Wins, Reading Tree, Adele's Literacy Library and NEA's "Read Across America".

Have questions about this National Day of Reading? Are you an author, book lover, book club or entertainer that would like to coordinate an event in connection with our historic literary event? Contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Sat. Oct. 17, 2009: Rankin County Arts Flair (Pearl, MS)

2009-09-19T10:39:00.001-07:00

Join us on Saturday, October 17, 2009 from 12-3p.m. at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) for our annual Arts Flair.

Members of the alliance will be on hand with their work and available to talk with you about their plans to encourage literacy, more creative activities in the school system, and what they do and how you can support them in having more opportunities in Rankin County. Interested in becoming a member? We'll be able to tell you how you can join us!

ADMISSION TO THIS MEETING IS FREE, AND REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED.Make sure to visit www.rankincountyarts.org for frequent updates. Need more information? Contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

"Remembering The Man In The Mirror: A Tribute To Michael Jackson" by C. A. Webb

2009-07-07T12:01:00.001-07:00

“Remembering The Man In The Mirror: A Tribute To Michael Jackson”
by C. A. Webb

The world is a different place today.
I say that because yesterday is gone and tomorrow is not promised,
So all we have is right now.
This is the world that the King of Pop has left behind.
But thanks to his music and memories we can find not only joy but messages we can use to make the time we have a little better.
After living half a century it was believed that the man who had given us Thriller and told us it didn’t matter if we were Black or White was truly Invincible.
It seemed as simple as A-B-C, easy as 1-2-3.
As he is remembered, though, it is the reflection of his influence that seems to show what will be his true legacy.

No matter what you thought of his personal life and the controversies,
The reality is the world is a different place today because we had Michael Jackson.
He gave us dance moves that are still being emulated, songs and beats that can never really be duplicated and lyrics that will forever be inspiration for so many aspects of our lives.
He voiced our frustrations when we just wanted others to leave us alone, and with the duet with his sister told us what how to handle it when we just want to Scream.
Whether it was telling that special someone how they made us feel or looking in ourselves to see the man or woman in the mirror,
Its hard to hide the impact of this incredible force.

The world is a different place today,
And the change ushered in by one man will stay with us only if we listen to the soundtrack of his life and pay attention to the lessons he gave so generously through his music—and apply them.
The way to measure the impact of the King of Pop is to not let the goodwill he had towards others stop.
So that is the work left behind for all of us.
A sadness for his family, friends and fans? Yes, but the blessing passed on will fill us all with joy long after he is laid to rest.

The world is a different place today,
And it with our help it will be a better place tomorrow and beyond as we say Thank You, Michael. Thank you for challenging us to be our best everyday.
We will always remember.
We will…

Tuesday, July 7, 2009
www.cyruswebb.com

Thurs. July 16, 2009: TOWN HALL MTG: "Hip Hop Under Obama: Change We Can Believe In?"

2009-06-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, July 16, 2009, Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and the Hip Hop and Books Literacy Campaign proud presents the town-hall style meeting "HIP HOP UNDER OBAMA: Change We Can Believe In?"

This will take place at the Margaret Walker Alexander Library in Jackson,MS (across from Westland Plaza) beginning at 5:30p.m.

"The discussion will cover how the Hip Hop Community has reacted to the election of Obama through its music, the way it addresses issues affecting them as well as in its outlook for the future,"

says Cyrus A. Webb,33, President of the Hip Hop and Books Literacy Campaign. In 2008 he held six forums* around Hip Hop and its affect on the world around them, with his forum 'BLACKS & OBAMA: A Vote of Conscience, Conviction or Color?' being covered by USA Today during the 2008 election cycle. He will serve as moderator of the discussion in Jackson, MS.

Admission is free, and the public is invited to attend and share their thoughts on this thought-provoking subject. Visit www.best-of-ms.org for more information or contact Stanley Clark at 601.559.3463 or Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com.

Tues. July 14, 2009: Rankin County Arts Alliance Mtg in Pearl, MS

2009-06-14T12:06:00.000-07:00

The Rankin County Arts Alliance is pleased to announce that its first meeting of the 2009-2010 Fiscal Year on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at the Pearl Public Library in Pearl, MS.

The meeting will begin at 6p.m. and will outline what the organization's plans are for the fiscal year, including our plans to further promote reading, the arts and dialogue in Rankin County. Admission is free, and refreshments will be served.

For more information, contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.rankincountyarts.org .

Author Carrie Elizabeth Greene

2009-06-12T14:45:00.000-07:00

Author Carrie Elizabeth Greene is claiming 2009 for herself with a vengeance. With a novel just released and a second book coming before the end of the year, she is living the life that many aspiring writers only dream about. On top of all her other activites she is also a judge for the country's first literary reality show The Write Stuff that will be debuting during the summer. How did her journey begin? She reveals that along with what saved the life of some of the characters in her debut novel and more in this exclusive interview.

Carrie, thank you for taking the time to talk with Conversations. Before we get into your book A VOICE BEHIND THUNDER, I want to fast forward to the reaction to the book. Has it surprised you what readers are saying about your debut?
Yes, I never thought it would be so greatly received. I am very excited .

For so many writing is a dream they can only hope to realize. How does it feel to be living this dream today?
It was a long time coming, but I'm grateful that I held out and didn't give up.

I have never asked you this before, but I think our readers would be interested to know when did you decide writing was something you wanted to do?
I can't say that it was always something I wanted to do, not like some who know from a child that they want to be a writer. However I always liked a good story, whether on television, movies, or the written word.

With that being said, how did your debut novel come about?
I loved to read Christian fiction and had a desire to write a Christian novel one day. When Genesis Press first started I wanted to contribute to the new project. I had this story in mind and I wrote it for them, however it was rejected. That was in 1995.

You have successfully produced a balance of romance and inspiration. Was it difficult for you to decide how far to go with either?
People don't like to think that romance is a part of a Christian’s life. It is very much so, and I wanted to show that although people are Christians, saved and desire to do God's work, they have and desire to have romance in their life. I lead the singles group in my church and am often confronted with how they should conduct themselves as a single Christian. There are times when we need to face the fact that Christians sometimes get off track. I wanted to do that with this book.

The characters you developed are so universal that anyone should be able to see themselves or someone they know. Who did you have in mind when you wrote it?
My characters are a combination of myself, and others, women and men with good and bad characteristics. People that i have met throughout my life.

Redemption is a big part of the message I got from your book, especially when it comes to dealing with issues of faith and people of faith. Do you think some people take the notion of 'once saved always saved' to heart and stop trying in their relationships with people and God?
Our egos like for us to believe that we are right, and the problem is with everyone else. Until we can see our own flaws and imperfections we can never forgive and love the way that we should. Our salvation is not based on works, but our ego's can keep us from living a fulfilled life while we are here on earth. So in the long run when we refuse to make our corrections we suffer.

I'm not going to give away the story but it seems as though you wanted us to expect more from your characters. Will there be a sequel and what should we expect from you next.
Actually, I wanted to kill off some of the characters but we decided it would not go well with the readers. I don't know if I will bring a sequel but I will write about the period, late seventies to the end of the eighties, because I believe it is an important time in our history especially for African Americans and it is worth taking a second look at.

I do have a second book called "Don't Delay your Increase: A spiritual guide to giving. which will be released in Dec 2009, and is published by Urban Christian Fiction. It is a guide that answers questions about giving, how to give, when to give, what organizations or people to give to and when to stop giving.

Now that you are a published author I know that those aspiring to be where you are have many questions. What advice would you give to them about moving forward from a thought to action?
I think it is important to write a story that has a purpose and a message. Think about the person that will read your book. What are the messages you want to leave with them, and write for that one person. Don't think about how many people will read your book, just write what you feel and be transparent.

Thank you again, Carrie. If our readers want to find out more about you online how can they do so?
You can email me at carrie@avoicebehindthunder.com. My website is www.avoicebehindthunder.com

TAKE TEN: Author Roishina Clay Henderson

2009-06-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

After dreaming about being an author since she was nine years old, Mississippi native Roishina Clay Henderson is now living that dream to the fullest. Her first novel Make Me Whole debuted in December 2008 and is already getting rave reviews. A former journalist with The Clarion-Ledger, she now lives in Atlanta, Ga., with her husband and son. Henderson talked with Conversations Book Club President Cyrus A. Webb about her book, the experience of being published and her advice for others who wish to do the same.

Roishina, it is so good to talk with you. It's hard to believe that we first met some nine years ago when you were interviewing me about my involvement in the Arts. At that time you were working for the State of Mississippi's largest daily newspaper. Did you have any idea at that time that you would be eventually on the other side promoting your own work?
First, let me say ‘thank you’ for the opportunity to talk about my debut novel, Make Me Whole! To answer your question: I did know that I would eventually be on the other side promoting my own. I just didn’t know when it would happen. I’ve dreamed of being an author since I was nine years old.

Your book Make Me Whole is an enjoyable story that I believe both men and women will be drawn to. What brought about the three main characters and were you surprised yourself as their personalities began to come forth to you?
The three main characters are Jacky, Neicy and Cee-Cee. For those who haven’t read the book yet, Jacky is the financially-challenged, care-free spirit. Neicy is the married woman who still likes attention from other men. And Cee-Cee is the homemaker who mistreats her loving and devoted husband. Now, Jacky was conceived about two years ago, and Neicy and Cee-Cee came when I finally got focused on writing the story— which was November 2007. I’m a little surprised at how their personalities unfolded before me. I wrote what I felt God gave me to write, and their personalities just came to life as I was writing.

This is your first book, and I hear authors say all the time that they like to bring themselves into their work at times. Make Me Whole has many slivers of your own life in it. Was this intentional or just the way it unfolded?
I can relate to each of the characters, but their lives are not based on my life. The story just unfolded on its own as I prayed to God and meditated on how the story should pan out. God gave me the story three chapters at a time.

One thing that struck me was that you had three voices coming forth in the book, letting the reader into their individual personalities. I have to ask as you were writing the book which one of the ladies were you more drawn to because of shared experiences?
I would say there’s really two, and that’s Jacky and Cee-Cee. Jacky is a newspaper journalist who was ready for a career change. I’m a former journalist who can relate to that. And Cee-Cee is independent, strong-willed and won’t be fully satisfied until she gets what she wants. Cee-Cee was once career-minded before getting married and having a family. I think my shared experiences with these characters are simply womanhood and just dealing with everyday life issues.

To me one of the most profound statements in the book came not from one of the main characters, but Bishop Solomon. He said "You don't have to go back home the way you came because God has heard your cries and your pleas for help. Many of you are going to leave here with...situations worked out and a renewed faith to go a little bit further because you understand that God is carrying you through today and forever more! (p.193)" That is deep. It proved to be true for your characters. How have you seen it to be true in your own life?
I’ve been at that place where I was at my lowest low and struck with depression. I didn’t think God heard me, and sometimes I didn’t feel I was worthy of God’s love. And quite frankly, I was upset with God about some things on how I felt what direction my life should’ve gone in. But I thank God that He didn’t take His hands off me. So in time, I was encouraged to press a little further. And when I looked back, those valleys of life had only drawn me closer to God and renewed an awesome faith in Him. Now, I’m at a permanent place in my life where nobody or nothing can take me away from God or from knowing that God is my rock, my source of peace, protection, blessings and joy.

Roishina, this year I had the pleasure of interviewing bestselling authors Reshonda Tate Billingsley and Victoria Christopher Murray: both are powerful wordsmiths with great support. Both told me that although their work carries an inspiring message, they don't like to call what they write Christian Fiction. I noticed, however, that on your website you embrace that as your genre. Can you tell us why, and if there was any hesitation knowing that some who might benefit from your book won't pick it up because of the label and stereotype that is sometimes associated with those titles as being preachy and condemning?
I don’t feel I picked Christian Fiction. I wrote what God gave me, and I think it fits into the Christian Fiction genre. I pray that it won’t prevent someone from picking up my book, because I want people to be encouraged. And I really believe people will be blessed from reading about these characters. They’re not perfect and have human flaws.

Let's turn for a moment to the business element of writing. With hundreds of books literally being released every week, how did you prepare to have your book stand out from the rest?
I worked with an amazing designer who produced my book cover. I adore the cover, and it’s something that would make me stop to read if I saw something like it in a bookstore. As far as the story that I’ve written, I was a willing vessel for God to pour in. You can never go wrong when you allow Him to use you. Also, I haven’t read any fiction books that tell about the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) convocation experience that actually takes place every November in Memphis, Tennessee. The book is fiction, but many of the details, events and places are real. So, I’m hoping that church experience will make the book stand out a little more.

Now that the book has been out a few weeks at this point, can you tell us what it is like to be doing interviewing such as this and promoting something that you birthed into the world and now others have a chance to appreciate?
This feels so wonderful!!! I’m looking forward to more opportunities like these to let people know that my work is out there. I truly feel blessed, and I’m really proud of my first novel. I want to share it with the world.

I can't let you go without giving advice to those reading your interview who might have a book in them but fear the work that goes into making it successful. What would you tell them, and then as a twist, what would Jacky, Denise and Prescilla tell them?
I would say to don’t let another day go by without making your dreams become a reality! If you only write 50-100 words a day or even a week, start somewhere. Just start and watch how your motivation will pick up! Drop that fear off in 2008 and pick up boldness and determination in 2009!

As for my characters and their advice:
· I can see Jacky saying: Don’t be like me—the queen of procrastination! I spent six years in and out of college; I may not be the right one to talk to! But hey! Put your imagination down on paper!
· Neicy would say: Is he cute??? Wait a minute. You asked about writing a book? Write until your heart is content and kick down that door that leads to success!
· Cee-Cee would say: A book, huh? You know I have a career background in marketing! Get started with writing TODAY, and I’ll be your marketing coach! I need something to do besides sitting comfortably in my 6,000 square feet home!

Thanks again, Roishina for a great book and an even greater conversation. If my readers want to find out more about you online, how can they do so?
Please visit my Web site at www.roishina.com. Order my book and send me an email! I would like to hear from readers! And book clubs?! I’m available to meet with you! Thanks for this opportunity, Cyrus! I enjoyed this!

The Write Stuff Meet & Greet in Jackson, MS: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2009-02-02T21:52:00.000-08:00

Though the Jackson, MS auditions for The Write Stuff will take place until Saturday, February 14, 2009, those in Mississippi and beyond came out to show their support of the historic event on Saturday, January 31, 2009.

(Seen above: Lateshia Pearson, Zane Bell, Kia Stokes and Joseph Henderson)

(Seen above: Authors Joseph Henderson, Jerome Gentry, Dudley Sykes and Kia Stokes)

(Seen above: Authors Joseph Henderson, Carrie Elizabeth Greene and Jerome Gentry)

Authors/Judges Kia Stokes, Joseph Henderson, Jerome Gentry, Dudley Sykes and Carrie Elizabeth Greene were joined by creators Cyrus A. Webb and Zane Bell, C Jay of The Risque Cafe (Memphis, TN) and other supporters as they celebrated the success of the project thus far. During the evening AJC and The Envelope Pushers entertained those gathered and good food and conversation were had by all.

To see all the pictures from the event, visit this link: http://thewritestufftv.webs.com/apps/photos/album.jsp?albumID=3878932

For more information about upcoming events for The Write Stuff visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com.

Thurs. Jan. 8, 2008: Koinonia Coffee welcomes author Joseph Henderson

2009-01-04T14:08:00.000-08:00

THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, 2009 @ 6:30p.m.
Koinonia Coffee welcomes author Joseph Henderson during its regular TAPESTRY session.

The public is invited to come out and meet the author as we discusses the metamorphosis that has taken place in his life and why he is now using his experiences to encourage others. Admission is free. For details or directions, call 601.960.3008.

Authors Take Center Stage During "Best of Mississippi" 2008

2008-12-31T18:43:00.000-08:00

Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and their literary partners are pleased to recognize the "Best of Mississippi" Class of 2008.

On Monday, December 29, 2008 Mississippians gathered to pay tribute to their own at the Pearl Public Library in Pearl, Mississippi. Authors Kia Stokes, Joseph Henderson, Jerome Gentry and Dudley Sykes were all recognized for their contributions to the state as well as the world through words. Hosted by Conversations Book Club President Cyrus A. Webb, the event also featured musical selections from 2007 Best of Mississippi Honoree Diane Johnston. (See below)

To find out more about the work of Best of Mississippi, visit http://www.best-of-ms.org.

Mon. Dec. 29, 2008: Shadow Play Ent. Presents the "Best of MS Class of 2008"

2008-12-04T13:54:00.000-08:00

MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2008
Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and their literary partners are pleased to announce their honorees for the "Best of Mississippi" 2008.

In 2007 the focus was on recognizing those who made a difference as leaders in their communities. (see honorees below) This year the focus was on those in the Magnolia State who encouraged reading and added their literary voices to the world.

Join us at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) on Monday, December 29, 2008 at 6p.m. as we recognize authors Kia Stokes (UNBOUND), Jerome Gentry (MISSISSIPPI'S UNCOVERED GLORY), Joseph Henderson (I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE) and Dudley Sykes (SCOTA'S CURSE). Musical selections will be performed by 2007 honoree Diane Johnston.

Copies of each of our 2008 honorees' books will be available for purchasing during this event. Admission to the 90-minute presentation is free. For more information, contact James Magee at 601.937.3245 or email Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com.

Listen to Sedric Brinson and Kenneth Smith on Conversations LIVE!

2008-11-17T19:33:00.000-08:00

Did you miss recording artist Sedric Brinson and Kenneth L. Smith, II (Director of KENFolk) on Conversations LIVE! Radio? If so, listen to the podcast here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/va/2008/11/18/stars-of-capital-city-classic-weekend-2-on-conversations-live

The two discuss the events they are involved in during the Capital City Classic weekend (click on the flyers above for details) in Jackson, MS, and why people should come out to support their efforts as well as help out important causes. (Earlier J. Bolin, Broderick Rice and Lauren Nicole talked with Conversations LIVE! about their roles in this week's events. You can hear their interview here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2008/11/17/Stars-of-the-Capital-City-Classic-weekend-talk-with-Conversations-LIVE.)

Special thanks to Shameka Reed of Savvy, Inc. for setting up the Capital City Classic All-Star interviews. Listen to other interviews by Conversations LIVE! at http://www.conversationsliveradio.com.

Listen to J. Bolin, Lauren Nicole and Broderick Rice on Conversations LIVE!

2008-11-17T12:11:00.000-08:00

Did you miss fashion stylists/designers J. Bolin and Lauren Nicole as well as Christian Comedian Broderick Rice on Conversations LIVE! Radio? If so, listen to the podcast here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2008/11/17/Stars-of-the-Capital-City-Classic-weekend-talk-with-Conversations-LIVE

The three discuss the events they are involved in during the Capital City Classic weekend (click on the flyers above for details) in Jackson, MS, and why people should come out to support their efforts as well as help out important causes. On Monday, November 17, 2008 at 8p.m. CST (9p.m. EST/ 6p.m. PT) more participants who are involved in the events will be on Conversations LIVE! to talk about their roles as well. Special thanks to Savvy, Inc. for setting up the Capital City Classic All-Star interviews. http://www.conversationsliveradio.com.

Listen to Conversations LIVE! talking with Derian Knox of Sipphop.com here!

2008-11-17T05:26:00.000-08:00

Did you miss Conversations LIVE!'s exclusive interview with Derian Knox, President of Sipphop.com? If so, listen to the podcast here! http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2008/11/17/Sipphopcom-President-Derian-Knox-talks-to-Conversations-LIVE

During the interview Knox talked about his other successful events (including a car dealership and being the co-founder of the Jackson-N-Crowd) and why he felt like the state of Mississippi needed a unifying element for its recording artists. He also announced that the first meet and greet for Sipphop would be a Koinonia Coffee (see http://www.koinoniacoffee.com for directions) in Jackson, MS on Wed. November 19, 2008 from 6-8p.m. with the public being invited to find out more about the organization and what is is doing for the state of Mississippi.

Details about Sipphop can be found at http://www.Sipphop.com or http://www.myspace.com/sipphopcom. This edition of Conversations LIVE! was brought to you by the upcoming literary reality show "The Write Stuff" (http://www.thewritestufftv.com) and LaPetite Events (located in Centre Square Suite B2 off Northview Drive in the North Jackson area For details about LaPetite Events contact Darold Polk at 601.212.1241).

Mon. Nov. 17th: Capital City Classic All-Stars on Conversations LIVE!

2008-11-17T05:25:00.000-08:00

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2008
In Jackson, MS one of the biggest football games of the year is during the Capital City Classic weekend. There are several events going on to celebrate, and some of the stars of the official gatherings talk with Conversations LIVE! in two exclusive shows today!
(Click the flyers below to enlarge)

(Click the flyers above to enlarge)
12p.m. CST (1p.m. EST/10a.m. PT)
Introducing Stephen Hurd (Gospel Singer),Broderick Rice (Christian Comedian),Theresa Kennedy (Capital City Classic Fashion Show) and Lauren Nicole (Designer) as they fill in our Southern listeners to what they have in store.

8p.m. CST (9p.m. EST/6p.m. PT)
Introducing Maurette Brown Clark (Gospel Singer),Jason Bolin (Fashion Stylist / Designer) and Kenneth L. Smith, II (Director of KENFolk) as they fill in our Southern listeners to what they have in store.

To listen to the interviews live, simply visit http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive or you can listen over the phone line at 1.347.426.3645.

SPOTLIGHT: Derian Knox, President of Sipphop.com

2008-11-13T07:46:00.000-08:00

Many in the state of Mississippi have come to know him for his connection with JacksonNCrowd, however, Derian Knox is better known for being one thing: a businessman. After finding success in a number of projects over the past decade he is now the President of a new organization called Sipphop.com that has made its mission that of encouraging and inspiring recording artists and even businesses throughout the state. Here is his conversation with Conversations LIVE! Radio Show host Cyrus A. Webb.

Derian, thank you for taking out the time to talk with us. I know you are busy with events throughout the city of Jackson. Before we get into the new endeavor you are a part of, tell our readers a little bit about who Derian Knox is.

Well, I am originally from McComb, MS but I have been native Jacksonian for about 21 years. A graduate of Jackson State University with a BBA in Marketing and a graduate of Belhaven College with a Masters of Business Administration. I am the President of the SippHop Movement and the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of JacksonNCrowd.com. I am also the Publicity Director for the Mississippi Blues, an American Basketball Association franchise. And lastly, I co-own DerKnoCo Auto Sales with my father. I have been in the entertainment business for about 11 years now, starting out as a club DJ and eventually promoting and hosting my own events as well as others. I am married with 1 son, a newborn.

I first met you through one of your other projects called the Jackson-N-Crowd. Why did you feel as though it was important to offer people a different type of entertainment experience?

JacksonNCrowd.com was the brainchild of my business partner, Larry Leggett (Co-Founder). We wanted to give people another option to the norm. We felt that the professional crowd was being left out. There are many 8AM-5PM working professionals who don't listen to radio or have accounts on these social networking websites. With JacksonNCrowd, there is need to set up account. You can come to the website and know whats going on and where. We also wanted to give people an opportunity to build their brand. By posting pictures and videos, people can get a feel for the event that they missed and they are more likely to attend the next one.

J-N-C has really caught on and changed the way events are done in Jackson, Mississippi. Has it surprised you how people from all backgrounds have come together and rallied around what you are doing?

It was very surprising in the beginning. We started the website at the beginning of the web-based advertising media boom and it really took off. We looked up and we were being contacted by people in other states who say the site. A lot of alumni that come back into town for homecoming or Capitol City Classic use the site to know what is going on around town. We have even talked to soldiers in Iraq who tell us that the site kept them in touch with what was going on back in Jackson. We have also been recognized by the Jackson Free Press in the Best of Jackson awards for the past two years for Best Website. And this year we are nominated for a Southern Entertainment Award for Best Website. So it has really taken off and we thank everyone for the support.

Mississippi has become known for producing some of the best when it comes to entertainment, however, we don't have a lot of our celebrities that are still in the state. Do you think this adds to the way people sometime view Mississippi?

Yes. I feel that on a national level people have the wrong perception of Mississippi. We seem to be one of those states that people have to leave in order to shine. When I talk to promoters from outside the state, they are reluctant to bring events here. Also, the statistics don't help our case either. We seem to always be ranked in the bottom on education, poverty, and obesity. It is up to us to change these negative connotations that are connected to our state.

In November 2008 you announced a new endeavor called Sipphop.com. What exactly is it and how does it differ or compare with organizations already out there like the M.A.P. Coalition?

The SippHop movement is something that I felt was very necessary as a media base for information. Who is who and what is what here in Mississippi. not just in jackson. There are other states with informative sites that you can see who does what or who is hot in their area or making noise. Mississippi does not have this on a deeply layered format yet. That is where I created SippHop.com. It differs from the MAP because its not membership based or anything like that. There are newsletters involved. Different stories on a vast amount of people. SippHop covers music and culture of Mississippians. That is the biggest difference. People outside of the state still wonder what really goes on down here. We are here to give that insight as well.

One of the things that impressed me about Sipphop.com is that it seems to be about empowering artists and helping to support its own. Do you think that one of the reason things have been slow for some artists is because the state puts so much time and energy on others who come into the state instead of nurturing those already here?

I do and that is where SippHop.com comes into play. We are all about promoting our artists statewide to get that exposure. We wanted to connect all parts of Mississippi and build a strong network. Mississippi is a major figure in the Hip-Hop world and our goal is to help showcase that.
There are a lot of major artists with ties here. Deep family ties and some even lived here for a short period of time. But they move. For those of us who remain destined to make an impact, whether in music or in life, we still have a very important story to tell and a struggle to show to the rest of the world.

From what I can see for the website www.sipphop.com admission is free to join the organization. What are your overall goals?
To show that someone is here looking at you and loving what you do. Showing others what you do and how we all move here in Mississippi. To further strengthen the infrastructure of inner cities and youth through education and also to have a political voice in our communities statewide. We also want to teach the overall art of music. There is more to music than being a headlining artist.

I have heard that you are already reaching out to community and political leaders in the state to get them involved in what Sipphop is bringing to the state. Why do you think it is important to have them on board?

Because any organization is only as strong as the community around it. We want to let people know that SippHop is for the state of Mississippi and all those in it. We want to involve the community in everything we do. At the same time, we have to have the support of the political leaders. Hip-Hop gives a voice to the youth and while you have their attention, we feel it is our social responsibility to make them aware of what is going on in their city halls and their government so the involvement of political leaders in vital. After this historic election, I think the youth understand that their voice can be heard. So we definitely want to let the influence that Hip-Hop has on them give us a medium to get them interested and involved in politics. And we need those political leaders there so that we can bring everyone face to face with each other.

And other businesses such as restaurants and hotels? How will Sipphop work to promote them as well?

By showcasing them as well as the principal figures in Mississippi. We are building a network that will span the whole state. We will host events and forums at these businesses when we are in their town.

It seems like Sipphop is going to be one of those organizations that truly has something for everyone. Thank you again for talking with us Derian. If our readers want to get more information about Sipphop or even want to join, what would you suggest they do?

Go to the website at www.sipphop.com and click the "join SippHop.com" tag or you can contact me direct 24/7 at 601-212-4445.

www.Best-Of-MS.org announces upcoming events in MS, November 2008

2008-11-09T07:53:00.000-08:00

As part of its commitment to spotlighting the best of Mississippi, www.Best-Of-MS.org, Conversations Book Club and their partners are pleased to announce upcoming events that will bring attention to the best the state has to offer.

(Seen above: Mississippi's own C. A. Webb and Country Music sensation William Michael Morgan)

ENTIRE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2008: Discussion of "Prince Among Slaves" Book and DVD

Read details here: http://bestofmississippi.blogspot.com/2008/11/conversations-discusses-prince-among.html

AUTHOR KIA STOKES CONTINUES HER BOOK TOUR FOR HER NOVEL "UNBOUND" IN NOV. 2008

Read the full schedule here: http://authorsofconversations.blogspot.com/2008/11/author-kia-stokes-continues-her-unbound.html

SUN. NOV. 16, 2008 4-5p. ---"ENTERTAINMENT HOUR AT WAL-MART", Wal-Mart HWY 18 in Jackson, MS

Mississippi entertainment is spotlighted during this family-friendly hour as www.Best-Of-MS.org and Wal-Mart share their support for talent in the Magnolia State.

THURS. NOV. 20, 2008 --- Author Dudley Sykes will be discussing his book SCOTA'S CURSE in Pearl, MS

Read details here: http://bestofmississippi.blogspot.com/2008/11/thurs-nov-20-2008-author-dudley-sykes.html

SUN. NOV. 23, 2008 --- Author Jerome Gentry will be discussing his book MISSISSIPPI'S UNCOVERED GLORY in Pearl, MS

Read details here: http://bestofmississippi.blogspot.com/2008/11/sunday-nov-23-2008-mississippi-author.html

TUES. NOV. 25, 2008 --- Town-hall style meeting on Racial Pride in Pearl, MS

Read details here: http://bestofmississippi.blogspot.com/2008/10/tues-nov-25-2008-discussion-on-racial.html

For more information on any of the above, contact Cyrus A. Webb at 601.896.5616 or cawebb4@juno.com.

Conversations discusses "Prince Among Slaves" Book and DVD in Nov. 2008

2008-11-09T07:17:00.000-08:00

Conversations Book Club President Cyrus A. Webb and his partners at 20,000 Dialogues & Unity Productions Foundation are pleased to announce the date and times of the historic discussion to be held during the entire month of November 2008 around Bestselling author Terry Alford's book PRINCE AMONG SLAVES (see below). The true story of an African Prince sold into Slavery in the American South (namely Natchez, MS) will come to life through the viewing of the PBS documentary by the same name. Coupled together, the film and the book will chronicle the life of Abd al Rahman who endured the humiliation of slavery without ever losing his dignity or his hope for freedom.

"Conversations is pleased to be a part of this history-making dialogue," says Webb,33. "The story of Rahman is one that I didn't know just weeks ago, however, now I wonder how my life has progressed in the South without it. I think audiences of all ages, races and backgrounds will appreciate this rich history and share us in telling others about it."The book PRINCE AMONG SLAVES has been chosen as Conversations Book of the Month for November 2008, with all of its chapters in Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana and Tennessee reading and discussing it. It is hoped that other book clubs across the country will do so as well. Webb will moderate discussions in Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee and Georgia.

Listen to Conversations' interview with the author Terry Alford here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2008/10/07/Conversations-LIVE-talks-with-author-Terry-Alford

Listen to Conversations' interview with the Emmy-awardwinning Director/Writer/Producer Andrea Kalin here:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2008/10/29/Producer-Andrea-Kalin-talks-with-Conversations-LIVE-about-SLAVES

Thursday, November 13, 2008 --- 6p.m., Film and 7p.m., Book discussion

Pearl Public Library

2416 Old Brandon Road

Pearl, MS

Admission FREE

601.932.2562

Saturday, November 15, 2008 --- 7p.m. Book discussion

Borders Bookstore

3131 Veterans Memorial Blvd.

Metairie, LA

Admission FREE

504.835.1363

Monday, November 17, 2008 --- 6p.m. Book discussion

Subway Restaurant inside Wal-Mart (HWY 18)

2711 Greenway Drive

Jackson, MS

Admission FREE

601.922.3406

Tuesday, November 18, 2008 --- 4p.m. Film and 5-5:30p.m. Book discussion

Judge George W. Armstrong Library

220 South Commerce St.

Natchez, MS

Admisson FREE

Saturday, November 22, 2008 --- 1p.m. Film and 2p.m. Book Discussion

Comfort Suites

5918 Monticello Dr.

Montgomery, AL

Admission FREE

334.387.2585

Thursday, November 27,2008 --- 6p.m. Book Discussion

Subway Restaurant (Pearl)

Subway Conversations Book Club

3000 HWY 80E

Pearl, MS

Admission FREE

Saturday, November 29, 2008 ---1p.m. Film and 2:30p.m. Book Discussion

Country Inn & Suites

759 Pollard Blvd. SW

Atlanta, GA 30315

Admission FREE

For more information about the events scheduled, contact Cyrus A. Webb at 601.896.5616, cawebb4@juno.com or visit http://www.thebestbookclub.info. To find out more information about 20,000 Dialogues, visit www.20000Dialogues.org.

Corey Davis of The Davis Group Talks with Conversations LIVE! Listen here.

2008-11-09T06:44:00.000-08:00

Cyrus A.

Did you miss our exclusive interview with Corey Davis (aka Kut Supreme of Blak Circle), President and Founder of The Davis Group? If so, listen to the entire podcast here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2008/11/07/Corey-Davis-of-Pre-Paid-Legal-Services-talks-with-Conversations-LIVE

Davis talked about balancing his life as a single father, independent recording artist and now the President of his own organization through Pre-Paid Legal Services. He urges all independent artists, labels, club owners and even artists and authors to listen to this interview and learn how they can best protect themselves and help others in the process.

To find out more about The Davis Group, visit http://prepaidlegal.com/hub/coreydavis. To find out more about Conversations LIVE! Radio, visit http://www.conversationsliveradio.com.

THURS. NOV. 20, 2008: Author Dudley Sykes discusses his book with Subway Conversations

2008-11-09T05:02:00.000-08:00

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2008
"Subway Conversations" Book Club is pleased to welcome author Dudley Sykes to discuss his book SCOTA'S CURSE. This will take place at the Subway Restaurant located at 3000 HWY 80E in Pearl, MS (next to Capital Menswear).

Admission is free, and the public is encouraged to attend. For details, call 601.896.5616.

SUNDAY, NOV. 23, 2008: Mississippi author Jerome Gentry holds discussion in Pearl, MS

2008-11-09T04:53:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2008--- 6-7p.m.
"Subway Conversations" Book Club is pleased to welcome author Jerome Gentry* to discuss his book MISSISSIPPI'S UNCOVERED GLORY. This will take place at the Subway Restaurant located at 3000 HWY 80E in Pearl, MS (next to Capital Menswear).

Hardcover copies of his book will be available for only $25.00. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information about the author visit http://www.jeromegentry.com.

TUES. NOV. 25, 2008: Discussion on Racial Pride held in Pearl, MS

2008-10-30T09:29:00.000-07:00

Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and its literary partners are pleased to announce their November 2008 discusssion...
(Click on the poster to enlarge)

"RACIAL PRIDE: A Thin Line Between Love and Hate?" --- Where does pride in your race and heritage cross the line into prejudice and hatred. The public is invited to join Conversations LIVE! Radio show host Cyrus A. Webb as he discusses this topic during a townhall-style meeting. Admission free.

For more information, contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also find out about other events such as this by visiting http://www.best-of-ms.org.

Conversations Report: MS State Flag Forum, MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2008-10-30T09:02:00.000-07:00

Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and its literary partners have just two words to say about their latest forum regarding the Mississippi State Flag: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!
A big thank you goes out to the panelists (Zane Bell, Dudley Sykes, Eddie Wright, Kia Stokes and Deanna Tisdale) for a job well done. Thank you to the Jackson Advocate Newspaper, The Clarion Ledger and the Pearl Public Library for helping get the word out, and to the dozens who came to be a part of the discussion. The conversation was thoughtful, all sides were well represented, and a common thread emerged: the need for the state to come together and recognize what unites us as well as what makes us unique.

What will be discussed in November? We are pleased to announce that on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 the town-hall style discussion at the Pearl Public Library (Pearl, MS) will be "RACIAL PRIDE: A Thin Line Between Love & Hate?". We hope to see you there. For details, continue to visit http://www.thebestbookclub.info.

R&B Crooner/Musician K. Lipsey revamps his website, teases with new single "Trouble"

2008-09-10T21:29:00.000-07:00

Hiphop and Books supporter/ R&B rising star, K. Lipsey, has revamped his myspace page (http://www.myspace.com/klipsey) and welcomes you to come by and become his friend!
With his contagious debut single "Mississippi Poe Boy", K. Lipsey stood up and took control of his career--- 2008 giving him visibility and allowed his fanbase to expand and grow. Originally from Canton, MS he has found a new home in California where he is honing his musical skill and hard at work on his debut album.

To all those who have given his music a chance, K. Lipsey says this: "I would like to thank each and everyone you for supporting. If it wasn't for people like you, none of this would be possible. I'm dropping the new single, "Trouble" so make sure you keep supporting. This one is for the Home Team!!!" Both "Mississippi Poe Boy" and "Trouble" can be heard on his myspace, and you can see the video interview that Hiphop and Books conducted with the artist along with the exclusive music video for his debut single.

On behalf of Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and the Hiphop and Books family, we salute the hard work that K. Lipsey has put forth and celebrate his success as his star rises all the way to the top. For more information about Hiphop and Books, visit http://www.hiphopandbooks.com.

Hiphop and Books supporter, R&B singer K. Lipsey, performs "Trouble" live!

2008-08-20T19:35:00.000-07:00

2008 has seen the rise of R&B sensation K. Lipsey. Originally from Canton, MS he has found a new home in California where he is honing his musical skill and hard at work on his debut album. A supporter of the Hiphop and Books literacy campaign (http://www.hiphopandbooks.com), Lipsey recently performed his hit song "MISSISSIPPI PO BOY" live in his home state. Now we are pleased to share with you footage of him performing his new single "Trouble" live during Hiphop and Books's "Entertainment Hour". (click the link below)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-lpb0ZOQ2M

For more information about K. Lipsey, visit http://www.myspace.com/klipsey. On behalf of Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and the Hiphop and Books family, we salute the hard work that K. Lipsey has put forth and celebrate his success as his star rises all the way to the top.

2nd Annual Statewide Book Club Meet and Greet--- Sat. June 28, 2008

2008-06-18T06:37:00.000-07:00

Conversations hosts the "2nd Annual Statewide Book Club Meet and Greet" in Mississippi!

ARE YOU READY FOR THE MOST EXCITING BOOK CLUB MEETING OF 2008?
Conversations Book Club, in partnership with Richard Wright Library and their literary partners, will be hosting the "Second Annual Statewide Book Club Meet and Greet" in Jackson, MS on Saturday, June 28, 2008. The event will take place at the Richard Wright Library (515 W. McDowell Road * Jackson, MS) and will be geared towarded allowing all book clubs and book lovers throughout the state to come together and discuss what unites them all: BOOKS!

SATURDAY, June 28, 2008
11-12:00p.m. --- Meet and greet with authors and book lovers (Bring your lunch as well as your books to get them signed)
12-1:00p.m. --- FORUM: The Business of Books (Authors discusss the joys and politics of publishing)
1:15-2:15p.m. --- FORUM: The Pros and Cons of Book Clubs (Can they do more harm than good?)
2:30-3:30p.m.--- What are YOU reading? Book lovers speak about what's hot and what's not.

Each session will be moderated by Conversations Book Club President Cyrus A. Webb. CONFIRMED Guest authors include Bestselling authors Diane Dorce' (author of DEVIL IN THE MIST and 52 BROAD STREET), Electa Rome Parks (author of LADIES' NIGHT OUT, ALMOST DOESN'T COUNT, LOOSE ENDS, THE TIES THAT BIND and THESE ARE MY CONFESSIONS), V. L. Green (WHEN DESTINIES MEET), Supreme Understanding (HOW TO HUSTLE AND WIN), Voncele Savage (A LETTER TO MY SISTERS) and Tina Brooks McKinney (ALL THAT DRAMA, LAWD MO' DRAMA and FOOL STOP TRIPPIN').

Admission to the day's events is free.

For more information, contact Berlinda White at 601.307.1851 or Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com. If you are a book club or author who would like to participate in the scheduled discussions, email Webb at cawebb4@juno.com.

C'mon, what are you waiting for? JOIN THE ADDICTION: Get hooked on books! http://www.thebestbookclub.info.

Forum "HIPHOP: Why The Bad Rap?": MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2008-05-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

Forum HIPHOP: Why The Bad Rap a SUCCESS!

Thank you to everyone who came out to suport the important forum "HIPHOP: Why The Bad Rap?" on Thursday, May 29, 2008 at the Richard Wright Library in Jackson, MS. Talk about an insightful conversation of a subject that has been so controversial!

A special thank you to Ms. Debra Gilbert, librarian of the Richard Wright Library for helping to bring the discussion to the fore. Our panel which included recording artists G-Money of Off Da Chain Ent., Mason of Muzic 4 Da People, E of Causin' Drama, Trill of C. O. D. Records, Author Voncele Savage, Poet/Talk show host Berlinda White and Asst. Editor Deanna Tisdale did an outstanding job discussing what is hiphop and how does it use of words and its culture affect the way it is viewed. We appreciate the support of the Clarion Ledger Newspaper, Mississippi Link Newspaper and the Jackson Advocate Newspaper for bringing attention to the event, including their coverage of the event.

The audience was engaging and full of comments and questions. The one question that was raised again and again at the end of the one hour and 30 minute forum was "When is the next one?" We are pleased to give you that answer.

Join us on Thursday, June 26, 2008 at the Richard Wright Library beginning at 6p.m. for the thought-provoking discusssion "RAP MUSIC: A Friend or Foe of Women?". During that forum we will look at the role of females in the music genre and if the way they are portrayed in lyrics, videos and even movies is hurting the black community. YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS IT.

For details, call Richard Wright Library at 601.372.1621 or Berlinda White at 601.307.1851. You can also find out more about the Hiphop and Books project at http://www.hiphopandbooks.com.

Join us for ENTERTAINMENT HOUR at WAL-MART: Sunday, May 25, 2008

2008-05-18T20:36:00.000-07:00

Shadow Play Entertainment and its partners are pleased to invite you to the debut of ENTERTAINMENT HOUR AT WAL-MART HWY 18 in Jackson, MS. Join us for a special edition of our monthly program on Sunday, May 25, 2008 from 3-4p.m. when we welcome Mississippi's own K. Lipsey! This is his first performance in his native state since the release of his radio hit "Mississippi Po Boy".

Joining us will be special guest OndreaNicole. This event is hosted by "Entertainment Hour" host C. A. Webb. Admission free.
For more information call 601.376.5215 or visit http://www.walmartconversations.com.

Meet Dj Downsouth: The host of the 1st "Hiphop & Books" Rally

2008-05-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

At the age of eighteen, Chris Ervin has accomplished more than some two and even three times his age. A lyrical master, he has reinvented himself as Dj Downsouth and has been creating a buzz for himself for years now. First introduced to Conversations Book Club Founder Cyrus A. Webb in 2006, the two quickly became friends and started to work together.

Webb chose Dj Downsouth to serve as host for the 1st "Hiphop & Books" Rally that took place in Jackson, MS on Saturday, April 26, 2008. The event kicked off the 25-state tour that will take Conversations Book Club and its literary partner TRU Publishing across the country promoting literacy among lovers of hiphop and R&B. (A testament to Ervin's talent is his remix to C-Murder's hit single "ONE FALSE MOVE" featuring Akon. You can here the track here: http://hiphoploversread.webs.com/videointerviews.htm.)
Below you will find a profile of the young man who is making his mark in the literary and music industries.

Dj Down South

* Age: 18

* Hometown: Petaluma, CA

* What attracted you to music?
Since I was young I have been exposed to music. From Oldies/Soul to Gangsta Rap, I have always found Hip-Hop/Rap interesting. Something about Rap drew me to it like a magnet. From the first time I heard the sounds of Run DMC, ODB, Big Pun, 2Pac, Eazy E, Sir Mix-a-lot, Will Smith, TLC, and Boyz-2-Men its taken all of my listening time. In 1999 I started writing rhymes, and in 2002 I dropped my first mixtape.

* Do you remember the first rap song you connected with? Yeah, my first song was really simple it was called A Day in the Life. It was basically my daily routine where I go, who I see, what I do. In all honesty it didn’t turn out 100% but it was a good start and I have come a long way since then.

* What do you think of the music coming out of the South right now?
The music that is coming out of the south is not what it used to be in the days of Soulja Slim, Big Moe, and Z-Ro but south music is selling commercially with sounds such as Lil Wayne, T.I., and Soulja Boy its not the best the south can put out but its Rap. I am not a fan of Soulja Boy or T.I. but they are doing what they love and you have to respect anyone who goes for it like that.

* You are not only a recording artist but a poet as well. Do you either one easier?
They are the same to me, I bring poetry into my music as much as I can.

* Many say that music is colorblind. Being a white rapper, do you feel as though you have to be that much more better to get respect? When I was young I was told African Americans and White people are the same and if you respect them the same way you would anybody else then yes music would be colorblind. Respect for respect, race does not play a roll in music unless you make it an issue and believe me, I am not one to play the race card.

* You hosted the 1st Hip-hop & Books event that has ever taken place in the country. Why do you think it is important that the hip-hop community encourages reading among its listeners?
Reading expands your vocabulary and opens the doors of creativity. Education is what will determine the rest of your life. It is a proven fact...Read more, Learn more, Earn more money.

* Do you think it is true that people don't enjoy reading or do you think it is all about matching them up with the right book?
People do not read or listen to what they are not interested in. So, it is defiantly in the right book for them.

* What were you most looking forward to at the rally that will took place in Jackson, MS on Saturday, April 26, 2008? Meeting new people and just feeling all the positive vibes music and books together creates.

* If you could collaborate with anyone in the industry, who would it be and why?
I would have to say Ice Cube, ever since I was young I have listened to him. From his songs with NWA to Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It. I have a lot of respect for him.

* Can you tell us what you are currently working on? I am currently working on a mixtape with my group Tru Platinum entitled Young, Gutta, and Gifted. Also a demo to send to labels with my other group Project X entitled The Takeover.

* How can our readers find out more information about you? You can go to my personal myspace page that I personally update at http://www.myspace.com/djdownsouth . Email: dj_down_south_2008@yahoo.com

For details about the Hiphop & Books tour, visit http://www.hiphopandbooks.com.

SPOTLIGHT: MS Recording artist G-Money

2008-04-23T13:10:00.001-07:00

Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to represent the talent of Mississippi's own, G-Money! As one of the headliners of the "Hiphop and Books" 2008 tour (http://www.hiphopandbooks.com) encouraging reading and staying in school, he is on his way to being one of the most talked about recording artists of the year!

Still in his 20s, G-Money has a style and swagger that both the guys and girls can relate to and vibe with. An avid storyteller and songwriter, he raps about the struggles in Mississippi and what it takes to survive.

With his single "Fresh 2 Def" getting a heavy buzz, he prepares for the success that is quickly coming his way. Here he speaks to you in his own words:

"I spend alot of time on da move. Growing up I always had da love for music. I start doing it when I was in 'bout sixth grade. I love playing sports, but music has always been in my heart. I write what I feel and what's going on in my life, past and present. You see, it's been real hard on me. My best friend was gun down, and my dad fail out on me at da store. No one know when it's our time to go, so make Da best of it. At da time every thang was going on it seemed like there was no one there to pick my head up, but I got through things. Some days still seem so hard, but I Just stay off to myself at times, using that time to write and think.

"I love to make music that people can say that was me at some point in time. Growing up in Jackson, Mississippi where there is not alot comin' out of on the music tip right now; but it’s home and I have love for all my people."

G-Money can be reached via email at offdachainent@aol.com or through his myspace @ http://www.myspace.com/gmoney769.

BOOK LOVERS DAY in Pearl, MS: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2008-04-23T05:05:00.000-07:00

Book Lover's Day in Pearl, MS: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

Thank you to all of the authors (Craig Alexander, V. L. Green, Darden North and Voncele Savage) for taking out an hour of their time on Tuesday, April 22, 2008 to talk about the writing process and how they stay encouraged and motivated.
The four of them were at the Pearl Public Library giving timely advice and showing why they are some of Mississippi's best. Author Craig Alexander became the 15th author that Conversations has hosted in 2008, while author Darden North was our 16th! This is an incredible feat for any literary organization, considering last year we only hosted 32!

Special thanks goes out to the Rankin Ledger and the Pearl Library for helping to promote the event.

JOIN THE ADDICTION: Get hooked on books! http://www.thebestbookclub.info.

"Best of Mississippi 2008" to be held Wednesday, October 22, 2008

2008-04-17T05:02:00.000-07:00

Conversations Book Club is pleased to announce that it will hold its "Best of Mississippi 2008" celebration on Wednesday, October 22, 2008. Celebrating the mind, body and soul of the state, the event will celebrate the lives of 12 individuals who have made a difference in the world of the arts, entertainment, media, community activities and in their home. Look for details about the location and time to be released soon at http://www.best-of-ms.com.

(Pictured above the "Best of Mississippi" Class of 2007: (l-r) Craig Alexander, Jennifer Vess, Diane Johnston, Cheryl Haynes & Voncele Savage. Not pictured are recipients Emily Wood, Alice Tisdale, Charlie Gaulden and Eddie Spencer.

Thank you to everyone who came out for the "Best of Mississippi 2007" event in Pearl, Mississippi. We hope all of you will join us this year as we push forward in celebrating the best that the state has to offer.

Mississippi Rapper/Producer E: Still "Causin' Drama" in 2008

2008-04-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

His love for music began when he was just in middle school, however, Eddie Bennett,28, (aka “E”) has made sure that what was just the enjoyment of music has turned into a career that includes not only becoming a recording artist but owning his own studio as well. With two years of college behind him, this Jackson native has worked with local artists such as Jewman and David Banner as well as national ones such as Nappy Roots, Petey Pablo, Timbaland and Grade A.

In spite of ups and downs when it comes to the music industry, his journey has come full circle with new music and a positive outlook on life. Confident, grounded and ready to take on the world, E is here to stay---and eager to show others what it takes to have a career in the industry.

(Rapper/Producer E seen here will be performing at the "1st Hiphop & Books Youth Rally" that will take place in Jackson, MS on Saturday, April 26, 2008. Details can be found at http://www.hiphopandbooks.com)

When did your interest in music began?
It began when I was young and in middle school. I wanted to be in the band real bad because I always loved music. But being from a lower middle class family education is the most important thing and finances were really tied up for bills. So from there I always had a passion for music.

Who were some of your earliest musical influences?
Outkast, Leaders of the new School, Dr Dre, Timbaland, DJ Premier, You know, the legends.

A lot of times recording artists will say that the music they make has to do with the lives that they live or have seen. Is that true with you?
Yes for the most case. I always try to go outside the box also with my music to show others that I can do other things like tell a good story or inspire you with struggle or even just make something crazy and catchy. You have to be able to do all things with the music that you do.

When it comes to music, is there any genre that you like that might surprise your fan base?
I will just put it to you this way. The only genre I haven’t really gotten into yet is country. But its coming. Believe me.

Tell us about the making of your first cd or compilation that you were a part of. What was the name of it, walk us through the process of it coming together and if you were pleased with the finished project?
The first Cd I actually made was for one of my firsts artist when I was living in North Carolina. His name was GAME. It was funny to me too when the new one came out. But the process was fulfilling. It was just a bunch of hungry individuals wanting to do something they loved so much and didn’t care what anyone else felt or thought about it. I was pleased with the outcome of it because it was my first one. So just to complete it was accomplishing alone. But from there I realized that I had a long way to go. But I was determined to do it because its just something about music that I cannot walk away from right now.

When we last tallked in 2006 you were releasing your second mixtape. What have you been working on since then?
Working my self to death trying to get where im comfortable with my music and in the industry. Formed a new prodoction team, got a lot of new work going on and its just one big ole bag of blessings coming to me right now. At the same time I am working on a new mixtape due to be released this summer. All original production on this one.

Do you think the music scene in Mississippi has changed much since your last release?
Yes it has changed dramatically. The crab in a bucket syndrome is slowly dwindeling away from the inner city music and the networking and get money by all means legally necessary attitude has been picking up in a lot of people and areas in the state.

Do you think we are really as behind on the music side as people seem to think we are?
Are we behind? Not by a long shot. material we have has always been taken and reworked by others outside of our state lines. We have what it takes. The door is just closed to us right now.

Who would you say your music most appeals to?
My music appeals to people who think about the other things that go on in the streets. You have your story livers and your story tellers. I am a little bit of both and the people it appeals to most are the one who can not only relate but can also say they know someone that it has happened to and they have lived it through them.

Living in Mississippi, there are so many cliché when it come to what people like. Is it your goal to cross over to appeal to a larger demographic?
The Ultimate goal is to just get noticed on a national level. As long as you keep your music true to yourself and the people who it relates to where you are from, I fell everything else will be handled in the turmoil. Because believe me with success, comes turmoil.

Mississippi has produced some bright stars and there are many more trying to get to the top. what advice would you give new performers as they begin their career.
If you value sleep and rest and no stress. Do not get into this game. You will lose sleep if you want to make it. It is a must. It is not possible to do it a few hours a day and make it happen. This is a life and a lifestyle for some people around here. It pays my bills and keeps me very comfortable. I put in over 80 hours a week on just music alone. At the same time persuing a degree. Success comes in a lot of forms. I just don't know which mine will be in yet.(laughs). So I will try them all and see which fits me best.

There has been much discussion as to the affect of hiphop music on today's youth. What is your take on it?
Do you think that the music a young person listens to influences what they do in their lives? Kind of. I don’t think it really does the complete job of influencing the youth but it does a little. Some more than others though depending on the demographic of where you are. Because not everyone feels the same when they hear music that they like. Or don’t like.

It's one thing to be an artist, but you have also taken an active role in the production of music as well. Talk to us about the process you went through to begin Causin' Drama Entertainment and who was it created for?
Causin’ Drama Entertainment was created for myself and a group of friends that I began with. It was a rough process and people lost a lot of things and gained a lot of things. Hell I lost my whole studio and had to build it all back from scratch. But the process was ongoing. Even today the process is not complete but it moves a lot more smoothly than what it used to and you can see the history of things that I have completed with Causin’ Drama Entertainment. From production, to engineering I have had a hand in more than 50 percent of not only my own artists music, but a lot of the music that the city of Jackson hears right now.

What do you want people to know about the music that you choose to make?
I make what I know works, not only for me but for a vast amount of people. Most live outside of Mississippi though. But that’s cool with me.

Since we are in a political season I have to ask you about the politics of the music industry. Do you think it is really so much about talent today as it is about generated hype?
Its really a little bit of both. Just look at the presidential elections. Its just April and you wouldn't know it the way they are marketing the new elections. (laughs) Same thing applies in music. Just in a different concept. Its strange but true. Not everyone is made to be marketed. Some people just have to rely on talent and prayer. And some slide right through the door selling their sole and publishing in the process.

When it comes to you, how do you remain relevent on the scene while maintaining your integrity?
By looking at myself and looking at my life. I havent made it yet. But I am happy. And I try to pass that on. My reputation for having a super hard work ethic has preceded me for many years. Now its to the point where I have to keep focus and eliminate negative people away from me and out of my life. That is how you stay relevant. Surround yourself with people just like you. And you will gain ground and prosper. When I am on the scene, I am the man that gets the job done. Whatever you need I will facilitate you or try to with the best of my ability and supplies. But when I clock out and go home, I change into my natural self: laid back and open minded looking for the next big thing. Its just a big dream to me. I never knew what I would accomplish last year. And I dont let my gaining ground go to my head. I stay grounded. I remain a regular person. Just like everyone else. Thats what people want. To feel like you are just like them. And I am.

Visit E at www.causin-drama-entertainment.com

Conversations reviews Sidney Sheldon's THE OTHER SIDE OF ME

2008-04-05T14:29:00.000-07:00

Conversations Book Club Founder and President, Cyrus A. Webb, begins his reviews of April with the man who was one of the literary voices that encouraged him to write in the first place: Bestselling author Sidney Sheldon. His autobiography THE OTHER SIDE OF ME is something that all of us can read and take heart in the fact that though many may count us out, it's not over til it's over. (see below)

THE OTHER SIDE OF ME was chosen by Conversations Book Club as its BOOK OF THE YEAR 2008. To order your hardcover copy for only $10.00 (taxes included), contact C. A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com.

To read his review of THE OTHER SIDE OF ME click on (or copy and paste) this link:

http://www.rankinledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080405/LIFE/804050302/1003

New Sponsors 4 "HipHop & Books" Rally, Sat. April 26th in MS

2008-04-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: We are pleased to have many new sponsors that are working with us to make the 1st "Hiphop & Books" Youth Rally a tremendous success. Look at the bottom of the email to find out all the details!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"Hiphop & Books" Youth Rally,

Saturday, April 26, 2008 in Mississippi

Conversations Book Club and TRU Publishing, in connection with their literary partners*, are pleased to announce the 1st "Hiphop & Books" Youth Rally of Mississippi! This will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2008 at the Smith Park in Downtown Jackson beginning at 1p.m. and ending at 5p.m.

The purpose of the event is to unite and entertain lovers of hiphop music with a family-friendly show as well as bring attention to the problems of illiteracy and school dropouts. Conversations believes that by showing that the hiphop community is about more than just the glitz and glamour portrayed through television and music that it can serve as a wakeup call for young people to still strive for the best possible life they can get through a good education and positive role models.

The days events will feature space jumps for the kids provided by Inflatable Kingdom, concession-style food and performances by Mississippi's own C. A. Webb, Ondrea Nicole, Trill, E of Causin' Drama, G-Money(seen above), Great Britt, Jacktown Slim and Jack Squad. Our special guest for the rally is Lil Half Ounce aka HollywoodHalf whose album SMALL TOWN HYPE features Fiend, C-Murder, Lil Cali, Pearlie Mac, Savage of Trill Ent and more. Artwork by C. A. Webb and other artists will also be on display.

To encourage school participation, Conversations & TRU are presenting this contest: The school that has the most students that attend the rally will receive $1,000 in brand new books for their school library donated by Conversations & TRU! (In 2007, Conversations & The Jackson Advocate donated over $500.00 in brand new books to the Shady Creek Trailer Park in South Jackson.) At the close of the event there will also be a historic, special announcement made that you want to be present to hear!

Admission is free, however, vendors including Krooked Ledda Clothing, Robin's Nubian Heritage Soaps and others will be on hand with merchandise. For more information, contact Robin Gardner at 601.664.8805, Stanley Clark at 601.559.3463 or Stephanie Mitchell at 601.500.8950. Also visit http://www.hiphopandbooks.com.

*This event is now being brought to you in part by Shadow Play Entertainment, For The People Productions, S. M. Productions, C. O. D. Records, Off Da Chain Entertainment, Yo!Raps Magazine, The Hype Magazine, The Hip-Hop Chronicle, http://www.weneedtostop.com, Val of Yoga & More, Causin' Drama Entertainment, http://www.angelsbowb4him.com, Wal-Mart HWY 18 in Jackson, Steve of Phase I Barbershop, Byron of Hair 2000 and Muzic 4 Da People Entertainment.

Shadow Play Entertainment Presents... Trill of C. O.D. Records

2008-03-22T23:05:00.000-07:00

He is not the only rapper that is hoping to make his mark on the music scene in 2008, but he is definitely one of the most determined. Born Anthony Redd, the man who has reinvented himself as Trill hails out of Brandon, Mississippi but is already setting himself up to have a national appeal.

"I became aware of Trill's skills in the studio in 2006 when we started working together on my spoken word album My Controversy," says C. A. Webb, Founder of Shadow Play Entertainment. "He produced and recorded several tracks on my sophomore project. I admired his work ethic then, and now we are working together again to reintroduce him to world."

With a sound that is both fresh and clean, Trill has evolved from just someone who says they want to make music to someone who is actually doing it. He first appeared on the music scene with the Magnolia Boyz in "Wild and Untamed" (2001) and his solo project "It's All In The Game" (2004). Today those around Trill say they have witnessed firsthand the transformation to not just a talented force but one that is well respected in and out of the studio. Trill is not shy about admitting that he wants success, but he is quick to let you know that this isn't necessarily tied to money. "Success is a stable lifestyle," he explains. "I appreciate all that has come my way. God has blessed me, and I thank Him for that---for the blessings I know and those I don't know." Someone who cares for others as much as himself, Trill can be found working in the studio with his music and helping others to make their own dreams come true. There is more to his life, however, than music. He is family-oriented and can be found every 1st and 3rd Saturday working with his church's Meals on Wheels program.

Right now it is all about networking and getting his music out there. The catchy single "Gettin My Airplane On" shows his range and playful side, but there are many dimensions to Trill that the world has yet to see. He wants to surround himself with the right people, keeping his circle positive and productive. The single is being featured in a series of commercials produced by C. A. Webb for Hot 97.7 FM to promote reading, and it will be performed during the release party for Webb's literary project "My Controversy" at the Wal-Mart on HWY 18 on Saturday, April 5, 2008. Look out for Trill. He will be around for quite sometime.

To arrange performances or interviews with Trill, contact C. A. Webb at 601.896.5616 or cawebb4@juno.com.

Visit with Trill online at http://www.myspace.com/trillcod. Find more exclusive pictures of Trill by visiting this link: http://www.esnips.com/web/ShadowPlayEntPresentsTrill.

You Are Invited to Conversations' "Book Lovers Day" in Pearl, MS!

2008-03-18T05:35:00.000-07:00

Conversations Book Club*, in connection with its literary partners, is pleased to welcome the public to its first "Book Lovers Day" in Mississippi! The event is geared towards authors, book club members and book lovers throughout the state to come together and discuss what unites them all: BOOKS!

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Creative Community Rallies to Support the Metrocenter, Thurs. Jan. 17th

2008-01-14T03:03:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Creative Community Rallies to Support the Metrocenter, Thurs. Jan. 17, 2008

This is to inform you that there will a second meeting of supporters of the Metrocenter Mall held on Thursday, Januay 17th at 6p.m. in the food court. This is open to all residents who want to meet and show their committment to the mall that is losing stores due to support.

After the initial meet and greet a couple of weeks ago of over 2 dozen supporters, the creative community rallied together to see how they can work better to ensure the survival of the Metrocenter Mall.

In this week's meeting, Conversations Book Club will meet with interested persons about its plan to move a retail outlet in the Metrocenter. The book club will also unveil its plan to rally more support for the mall and unveil a special website it has designed to get Jackson residents more involved in saving the mall's businesses. This meeting is open to all who would like to find out about the space, what it will hopes to carry and how others in the community can assist as well as benefit. It is especially suggested that visual artists, recording artists and authors in the area attend, as the meeting will hold special information for them.

This need has come in the wake of Metrocenter losing WALDENBOOKS, South Jackson's only book store. Conversations hopes to fill the gap as well as offer something new that will entice South Jackson residents to support their own.

For more information, contact Stanley Clark of For The People Productions at 1.773.344.7220 or Robin Gardner at 601.664.8805.

"Readers Support Metrocenter" meet & greet--- Friday, January 4,2008

2008-01-01T14:48:00.000-08:00

It is with great pleasure that Conversations Book Club and its literary partners across the Metro area unite during a special meet and greet on Friday, January 4, 2008. It will be at the upper level Metrocenter in the food court. Conversations as well as book clubs across the metro area will be converging on the food court at 6p.m. to support the eateries in the mall, and at 6:30p.m. they will be talking about the future of the Metrocenter and how we are all affected by businesses that come and go in the mall.

Conversations organized this special meeting after learning that Waldenbooks Metrocenter will be closing its doors in January 2008, leaving a hole for readers who live in the South Jackson area. With Waldenbooks gone, the closest bookstore for those in this part of Jackson will be Books-A-Million in North Jackson.

All those interested in the future of such stores in the Metrocenter are asked to come, invite a friend, share your ideas and learn what others are putting in motion to make sure that book lovers and those who want to support the arts have representation in South Jackson's only mall.

For more information, contact Cyrus A. Webb via email at cawebb4@juno.com or Robin Gardner at 601.664.8805. You can also visit http://www.thebestbookclub.info.

Introducing the "Best of Mississippi 2007"

2007-12-21T10:11:00.000-08:00

(From L-R: Craig Alexander, Jennifer Vess, Diane Johnston, Cheryl Haynes and Voncele Savage. Not pictured are Emily Wood, Alice Tisdale and Charlie Gaulden.)

In December 2007 Conversations Book Club recognized those who were chosen as the "Best of Mississippi" for this year. They include community activists, authors, reporters, publishers, missionaries, ministers, school administrators and vocalists. No matter what their individual gifts, they all share a love for the state they call home and a desire to work in improving it one day at a time.

"Best of Mississippi" Awards Ceremony --- Tuesday, December 11, 2007

2007-11-07T21:55:00.000-08:00

What's Next for the "Best of Mississippi" in Nov./Dec. 2007

2007-11-05T21:23:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who has supported Conversations Book Club's "Best of Mississippi" Project since its renewal in September 2007.Our slogan of "Read Well. Eat Well. Live Well." has been used to remind Mississippians that everyday we have to do our part to bring out the best of the state...and we want to recognize those who we feel like are during their part to make this a better place.

Book Club President Cyrus A. Webb worked during the summer of 2007 to assemble a new committee to be the nucleus of the movement he hopes to spread statewide. Beginning in October 2007, he has been introducing three individuals that have gone above and beyond to show that the state is moving forward. If you have missed any of the honorees, here is a recap:

October 2007: Charlie Gaulden (Executive Director of Kindling Spirits), Alice Tisdale (Publisher, The Jackson Advocate) and Craig Alexander (author, The Nineveh Project).

November 2007: Diane Johnston (Missionary), Eddie Spencer (author/Community Activist) and Jennifer Vess (Community Activist)

Our meeting for December is Saturday, December 1, 2007 at 5p.m. It will be held at the Subway Restaurant in Pearl, MS and will recognize WJTV News Anchor Emily Wood, Crystal Springs Elementary School Principal Cheryl Haynes and Author/Motivational Speaker Voncele Savage. Mark your calendar and make plans to attend this event.

All nine of this year's honorees will be recognized at an awards ceremony held on Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at the Pearl Public Library at 6:30p.m. Admission is free, however semi-formal attire is requrested.

For up-to-the-minute information on the work that "Best of Mississippi" is trying to do, please visit http://www.best-of-ms.com. You can also contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com.

Conversations celebrates November's "Hometown Heroes" --- Saturday, November 3, 2007

2007-11-01T00:31:00.001-07:00

Saturday, November 3, 2007 @ 5p.m. --- Conversations Book Club will hosts its second "Best of Mississippi" Meeting at Subway Restaurant in Pearl, MS for 2007. In November we will be recognizing the efforts of Diane Johnston, Eddie Spencer and Jennifer Vess. You are encouraged to attend, support the business and congratulate those who are making a difference in this state one day at a time. Admission free.

"Best of Mississippi" Meeting to be held on Saturday, October 6, 2007

2007-09-23T09:41:00.001-07:00

We are pleased to inform you that there will be a "Best of Mississippi" planning meeting held on Saturday, October 6, 2007. The meeting will take place at the Subway Restaurant in Pearl, MS (3000 HWY 80 E) at 5p.m. and will last one hour. You will meet some of the founding members as well as hear what the mission of the group is in the state. We will also recognize three "Hometown Heroes": Alice Tisdale (Publisher, The Jackson Advocate), Craig Alexander (author, The Nineveh Project) and Charlie Gaulden (Founder, Kindling Spirits).
The public is invited to attend and support this locally-owned establishment. For more details, contact Robin Gardner at 601.664.8805 or email Webb at cawebb4@juno.com.

Jordan Miller, Mississippi Creative

2007-09-12T14:39:00.000-07:00

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In his teens, Jordan Miller has seen more than most young people have experienced in a lifetime. As a "Preacher's kid", he has been all around the United States---but he is quickly finding his own place in the world.

Since July 2007, Miller has been a regular at "Spoken Word Saturdays", not just as a poet, but a singer and now using interpretive dance. An overall creative human being, this young man is inspiration to both young and old.

B.O.M.B. Spotlight: Robin Gardner aka "Dance Minister"

2007-09-12T14:33:00.000-07:00

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Since Saturday, July 7, 2007 "Spoken Word Saturdays" at Subway has been THE PLACE in Rankin County to enjoy the talent of the people. Whether its open mic poetry, singing, dancing or author visits, the weekly event has become a must for those interested in seeing creativity in motion.

For the past several weeks, however, Robin Gardner aka "Dance Minister" has been taking to the floor, providing an inspirational mix to the already ecclectic program. Stirring the audience with her grace and style, Gardner has become one of the highlights of the program. She is also a member of the "Subway Conversations" Book Club and the "Inspirational Conversations" Book Club.

Effective Monday, September 10, 2007 Gardner is the Community Relations Liason for Shadow Play Entertainment, one of the sponsors of the "Spoken Word Saturdays" program.
Make sure you visit the Subway Restaurant in Pearl, MS to see the talent you've been missing---and maybe catch a glimpse of Ms. Gardner in her glory. The program is free to the public, and runs from 7-9p.m. For details call 601.936.4803 or visit http://subwayconversations.blogspot.com.

Visit her site by clicking here.

Author Craig Alexander featured by Conversations Book Club

2007-09-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

(Author Craig Alexander seen here with Jennifer Vess, Reference Supervisor at Pearl Public Library)

It would be difficult to find an author as appreciative of his success as Mississippi's own Craig Alexander. While talking with Conversations Book Club he explained that his love for the written word has been around for some time. "I have always loved books," he told the group. "I love the way they feel in my hands, even the smell of them." That love has birthed his first novel THE NINEVEH PROJECT. "It was like holding a newborn," Alexander relates, when talking about what it was like to hold his book for the first time. "It's a feeling I won't forget."

The story he has weaved together is not one that will be forgotten anytime soon, either. In it you meet Aaron Henderson, a man who is troubled by dreams that lead him to a world unfamiliar to his own. So where did the story come from? Craig explains: "The story was inspired by a dream that I ended up sharing with my bible study group." This same group inspired him to take it to the next level. "You've got to write this story" they told him, and the result is the 258 pages that have been brought to life through THE NINEVEH PROJECT.

The story is an action/adventure novel with a Christian theme---taking place with a main character that lives in Alexander's home of Flowood, Mississippi. Is that where the similarities end? "(Aaron) Henderson is me to the 10th power." They also share a love for martial arts, which Alexander teaches. All in all, the journey taken by completing the book has encouraged him to want to share it.

"This has been a great way to share my faith," Alexander told the book club. "I am able to tell about the joy I've found through my faith." Encouragement has come from the homefront as well. "My wife even tells me how proud she is of me," he said with a smile. "It just goes to say that what you do does matter. You can be used for a purpose."

Since the book was released in May 2007, Alexander has hosted book signings at the home of some of his friends, Lemuria Bookstore (Jackson, MS), The Source bookstore at Pinelake Church (Flowood, MS) and Waldenbooks Metrocenter (Jackson, MS). The book is available online worldwide.

He recently launched his new official blog to keep his fans updated on current events. Visit it by clicking here.

B.O.M.B. Spotlight: Mississippi Author Joe Lee

2007-06-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

On Friday, June 22, 2007 I, along with 20 or so others, met at the Pearl Public Library in Pearl, MS for the meet and greet with Mississippi author John Lee. Lee, a 42 year old Jackson native, was raised in Starkville and has written three books: ON THE RECORD, DEAD AIR and his newest release JUDGMENT DAY.
I have to tell you that it was one of the best author exchanges I have been a part of in some time.

In less than an hour he told us about the love he has always had of words, being an individual who had worked with as a multi-media personality for years. Now he is not only an accomplished author, but a publisher as well. The owner of Dogwood Press in Brandon, MS, he has published the work of another Mississippi author John Floyd, also of Mississippi.

Lee told us that he had dreamed of writing a book since college, and gave some really good advice for anyone who was thinking of writing a book and even those who had done so and wondered what they should be doing next.

His books, all categorized as mysteries, have been published by his own hands, however, he admitted that he has hired an agent and she ie always shopping his books to the major publishers, though not one to wait on that "big break."

What motivates Joe Lee? "To make a great start you always have to put out your best work." That has been something that he has lived his life by over the years. He told us that when it comes to marketing and promoting, some don't have a clue where to begin, but it is always best to get a fresh eye to anything you want to be representative of you.

What has Lee written about in the past?

His first book ON THE RECORD was more of a legal thriller. He admitted that he picked his wife's brain for information since she worked in that field, but also talked to those who were involved in other areas of politics as well. At that time he was still employed full-time, so the book was completed as more of a nights and weekend project over three years.

His second book DEAD AIR is something that Lee said came to him right from the beginning. He knew right away where he wanted the story to go. To get research he told to pathologists, law enforcement and used his own experience in working with the media. This book was published in 2004 and it was the following year in which he began to work with his literary agent.

The new book, JUDGEMENT DAY, is something that Lee believes was the book he may have had to write in order to get one of the major players to take a look at his other work. It is a book that is based in a fictionalized town, but deals with issues that all of us can relate to.

In the group today was the author that Lee is currently working with, Mr. John Floyd. Talking about his publishing venture, he said that there is always a certain window in which to operate. The book of short stories that he published of Floyd's is doing well, and Lee said that he is "a reliable author that I can work with."

I left this event feeling glad to be from Mississippi. I have only read one book of Lee's, that being DEAD AIR, but I loved it so much that I will tell others about it and support his other projects as much as I can. To get more information on Lee and his publshing house, click here.

Two Community Projects Led by Mississippi's own Cyrus Webb receive awards, commendations

2007-05-02T17:06:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Two Community-based programs hosted by a Mississippi artist receive recognition

Contact:

Medgar Evers Library
Laura Turner, Librarian
601.982.2867

Richard Wright Library
Ms. Debra Gilbert, Librarian
601.372.1621

On Friday, April 27, 2007 two projects hosted by libraries in the Jackson-Hinds Library system were recognized as being Outstanding Programs--- and both were led by Mississippi media personality Cyrus Webb.

"I was so excited about the honor," says Webb, 31. He didn't find out about the recognition until he visited the Medgar Evers Library on Wednesday, May 2, 2007 and saw the trophy.

The Medgar Evers Library received one for hosting the Conversations Book Club, and the Richard Wright Library recieved recognition for their Teen Time program.

"It makes me feel good that the library system recognizes the success of both projects," Webb continued. Webb (who is known to many as C. A. Webb) has been active in the arts for over a decade, however, it was just three years ago that he went full-time with his endeavors. He began hosting the Teen Time hour with teens at the Richard Wright Library a year ago on for one hour on Fridays. The Conversations Book Club, which he founded in November 2006, began to meet in December 2006 at the Medgar Evers Library.

"I was glad that we could partner with Webb on his mission to encourage reading," says Medgar Evers Librarian Ms. Laura Turner. "It is encouraging to see someone take up the cause of reading and share it with others."

Since 2000, Webb has been concentrating on his Conversations Brand, building a radio show, television program, magazine, newspaper column and book club all with the same name. The purpose of the Conversations family is to encourage an interest in the arts as well as an appreciation for the written and spoken word.

Later this year Webb along with others will host national bestselling authors Relentless Aaron, Travis Hunter, K. Elliott, Danyelle Santiago, Jihad, Francis Ray, Clarence Nero and others.

For more information, visit www.thebestbookclub.info and www.breakfastwithbooks.com.

Lake Elementary School Poets prepare for their big debut!

2007-05-02T16:26:00.001-07:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASELake Elementary Students share their souls through Poetry

Contact: Ms. Althea Johnson, Principal
Ms. Lorenda Cheeks, Asst. Principal/21st Century Coordinator
Lake Elementary School
601.960.5308

Every Wednesday in April, beginning Wednesday, April 4, 2007, students involved in the 21 Century project at Lake Elementary have been using their heads, hearts and hands to express themselves during National Month Poetry Month, with remarkable results.

"There has been a genuine excitement with the group each week," says C. A. Webb, the 31 year facillitator of the weekly project. "At first they were unsure how they could write poems on their own, but in the three weeks since we began they have really gotten into it." Thanks to the support of the Northeast Ledger and the magazine Mississippi Kids, one of the students who is participating in the project (Kyle Brown) joined the sessions. This is impressive since Kyle is home-schooled.

So far the students, who are divided into two groups (first and second graders meeting 3:30-4:20p.m. and the third through fifth graders meeting 4:30-5:30p.m.) have written poetry about their lives, their school experiences and even their feelings about death.

During the session on Wednesday, April18th, Webb had the older students write their thoughts on death and how they saw it. "After what happened at Virginia Tech earlier in the week, I wanted them to talk about their own feelings about death," says Webb. What came out of the writing session was some of the best poetry of the entire project.

At the end of the project, the students' poetry will be compiled into a volume called "Our Voice".

On Wednesday, April 25th the students will finish up their last poetry and will begin to practice for their upcoming poetry reading that will take place on Wednesday, May 9th at 3:30p.m. The session that will be held on Wednesday, May 2nd will be used to rehearse their poetry.

Each session is free to the public and the media is welcome to attend. To discuss further, contact Ms. Lorenda Cheeks at 601.960.5308.

Mississippi artist/author/poet C. A. Webb has been busy sharing the importance of the written and spoken word for over 10 years. Webb, 31, began the Conversations Book Club as a motivation to get young adults to read authors that wrote work they could relate to as well as to encourage readers to get to know the authors they read. As part of his campaign he has been using the same message in his speeches to schools as well as to regular groups that he is in contact with. Webb is the President of the Rankin County Arts Alliance and serves on the board of directors for the Genesis and Light Community Program as well as on the advisory board for several non-profit groups. For more information, visit http://www.thebestbookclub.info.

Best of Mississippi Profile: Latasha Willis

2007-05-01T14:58:00.000-07:00

There are few that celebrate the arts like Latasha Willis. She is not only a creative herself, but does her best to support others who are a part of the artistic process. Though we met each other in April 2006 for the first time, she was no stranger to me or other readers of CONVERSATIONS. Known online as L.W., she blogs for the Jackson Free Press, sharing information as well as her opinion on a variety of subjects. In fact, her recent posts on the site addressing discrimination and sexism have been some of the most commented on of the site's history.

My conversation with the woman who is Latasha Willis was long overdue.
If you are looking for a story of someone who takes the good with the bad and presses on, then you need look no further.

Latasha, I use the term "Creative" a great deal when describing people who are multi-faceted in the arts. When did you begin to see yourself as one of those people?
I don't think I can remember a time where I did not see myself as creative. Even when I was too young to know what adjective to use, I knew that I loved to express myself in different ways. When I was about three or four, I had an obsession with "wall murals" - writing on the wall and getting into trouble. Anyway, I didn't just draw a bunch of squiggly lines. I drew kids on bikes, houses, whatever I could think of. I already knew how to read, so I would try to write letters and numbers. I even drew around the wall socket in the living room to convert it into a drawing of a microphone. Whatever people would see as an ordinary object, I saw as something else. I converted doughnut boxes into dollhouses and made dolls out of everything from gardenia blossoms to sponge rollers. I made up my own puppet shows and created different characters by changing the shape of my fingers. As far music is considered, I attempted to make up songs on the piano (although I was really just banging on it) and using a flyswatter as a guitar.

I know from our previous conversations a little about your past. Why don't you tell our readers about your beginnings and how you have molded into the person you are today?
Well, I am the second of four children. I have two sisters and one brother, who is the youngest. We all grew up in an average residential neighborhood with both parents in the home and my maternal grandmother, whom I stuck to like glue. I attended John Hopkins Elementary School, and I really got into art during that time. I won a few awards here and there, and my art teacher, Mr. Robinson, encouraged me to continue to improve my drawing skills. To this day, I prefer a pencil and a sheet of paper over any other medium. I also loved music class and going to the library, which were like field trips to me. Singing and hitting two colorful sticks together was a blast. At the library, I didn't want to leave sometimes because I loved to read so much. I used to dream of illustrating books one day. Once, I made a picture book (spine and all) and placed it on the shelf with the other books. I don't know where it is now, but I hope that whoever found it got to enjoy it. Also, I hated writing assignments except for when I got to write stories and poems. In sixth grade, I got third place for an education essay, and a story I wrote about a girl who had a near death experience was recognized by the school's vice principal. At Northwest Jackson Junior High, I chose art as an elective and got to go on field trips to the art museum, etc. My teacher was Ms. Wills. I fell in love with Impressionism and abstract art at that time. I also participated in two school plays called "Paint the Town Pink" and "The Stuck Pot". I was a stuffy old school board member in the first play, and I had to sit on a chair with wet paint on it. I LOVED IT! In the second play, I was the dean of an all-girls' school and got to "shake my groove thang" a little in a scene where a school dance was going on. That play went over so well that we were asked to perform twice. Also, when I was vice president of the student body, I got to help make announcements on the intercom in the morning. I would pretend I was a radio DJ and tried to pronounce everything perfectly. Unfortunately, the first time I did it, people thought I was a boy. Yikes! At Callaway High School, I once again chose art as an elective and went to the art museum several times. My teacher, Ms. Wagoner, exposed me to mediums I never heard of, and I loved to experiment. I remember a wall hanging I had to make using a loom made of cardboard. I did not know how the thing would turn out, but she liked it so much she included it in some sort of art exhibit downtown. I recently thought about trying that again. I think I remember what to do. If not, I'll figure it out. During my last year there, I also won an award for a drawing I did for the Jackson Police Department. At the time, they were making an anti-drug calendar in order to raise money for police dogs. I got first place, so my drawing went on the front of the calendar. When I went to JPD to accept the award, Chief Jimmy Wilson and Mayor Kane Ditto were there along with TV reporters and a reporter from the Clarion-Ledger. It was a shock having a camera and a microphone in my face all of a sudden, but I did my best to sound intelligent and not look like an idiot.

As you have gone on your journey as an artist, what has been the biggest disappointment for you so far?
My biggest disappointment so far was that I didn't fully pursue making art a career like I had wanted to throughout my childhood. When I enrolled at Tougaloo College, I had no trouble choosing art as a major. However, I changed my major during the first semester because I loved computers and hoped to have a career in graphic arts. I didn't want to have a double major, so I decided it would be easier to major in math with an emphasis in computer science and take art classes as electives. I never got to take those art classes because the math and computer classes took all my time and energy. I stopped drawing every day, and I began to forget who I was. I dabbled in poetry, but I threw al my poems away because I felt they were too erotic, even though I used no foul language and did not name any specific body parts. I should have kept them. If I could turn back the clock, I would have majored in art or English and took computer classes on the side.

In my introduction of you I mentioned that you are a blogger for the Jackson Free Press magazine (www.jacksonfreepress.com). Tell us how that came about and the way you go about deciding what to write about.
I picked up my first copy of the JFP around 2004, and I fell in love. I had never seen a paper like it in the area, and I wanted to read more of if but did not know how to get any more. Well, I went to their Web site at the beginning of 2005 to read these articles. I saw that Jackson was still a city to be proud of regardless of who was moving away. I also wanted to share my opinions, so I registered and chose the name L.W. so that no one could tell who I was or that I was a woman. I started posting replies in the blogs and enjoyed the online conversations immensely. I also began to make entries of my my own in the Culture Blog and the Politics Blog because I wanted to talk about things I haven't read concerning the black community and issues in Africa. After posting entries and replies on a regular basis for a few months, the editor-in-chief, Donna Ladd, asked me via email if I would like my own blog. I was flattered and shocked all at the same time. I had never blogged on a regular basis in that way, and I wondered what people would think of what I had to say. I decided not to let the opportunity slip and accept the offer. I am now VERY thankful that I did not turn Donna down and that I now have a sounding board where I can express myself.

You strike me as a woman who seems empowered. I'm curious as to how you feel about the way women are so often portrayed in today's films, music videos and even soap operas?
Empowered? Wow - didn't see that one coming. I just see myself as someone who had to overcome a lot of issues, and I'm still trying to overcome them. I have dealt with depression, panic attacks, a suicide attempt, unemployment and God knows what else. I guess it's true when they say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Any power you may see comes from God, because there is NO WAY I could do anything without Him steering the ship of my life through every tempest. As far as how women are portrayed in the entertainment industry, I feel like we're starting to go backwards. I remember watching old shows from the fifties and sixties that portrayed women as either overdressed, helpless housewives or mindless trophies. I was born in the mid-seventies, and I think many of the shows during the seventies and eighties portrayed woman as strong, loving and capable of anything. I remember Mary Tyler Moore throwing her hat into the air and Willona on Good Times making it as a single woman in the ghetto. Even in the nineties, shows like Living Single gave me a sense of hope about having a career and being intelligent and good-looking at the same time. These days, I don't know what happened. To me, women are now portrayed to either be snotty, arrogant loudmouths or sex-starved golddiggers. I refuse to internalize any of those characters. I will not sacrifice my dignity or self-respect to attract attention to myself. I would rather be broke, single and happy than to collect boyfriends for sex and pocket change. My body is a temple, and I intend to keep it clean.

As a black woman, do you feel any added pressure to stand out among others who might be artistic or display similar talents?
I don't feel any added pressure. There are so many outstanding black women who have paved the way for the sisters of today, so I don't feel the need to "one-up" anyone. Phyllis Wheatley, Toni Morrison, Whoopi Goldberg, Patti LaBelle, Oprah Winfrey - they have already proven to the world that talent cannot be defined by gender or ethnicity. They have also proven that originality, not fitting in, is the key to success. What they have already accomplished is all the encouragement I need to make a difference on this terra firma, this planet we call Earth.

Recently we had the pleasure to meet at the Free2Flow Summit that was held in Jackson, MS. One of the topics that were discussed that day was the way the "N" word has been commercialized. I want you to share your thoughts with our readers.
I don't agree with the concept, but I understand it. I understand why this generation wants to reclaim such a word in order to make it powerless, but I can't help but think about the generations before us who fought to prove that the word is an inaccurate description of who we are and what we believe. Yes, it's just a word, but the tongue is a powerful weapon capable of slicing and dicing the weakest of souls. Yes, the ending can be changed from -er to -a, but it still sounds the same to me. I believe in freedom of speech and expression, so others have the freedom to use the word, and I in turn have the freedom not to, so I don't.

Latasha, do you feel as though black people are adding to their own problems by buying slang that just seems to further divide us?
Regardless of whatever slang is popular today, it is just a symptom of the main problem - a lack of self-worth. Until we as a people realize that we are just as good as anyone else and do not have to sacrifice our identity in order to "make it", we will continue to sell ourselves short.

Another word that is used alot today that seems to have changed in meaning is the "B" word. In your opinion is there any time that the word could be seen as empowering or is it still degrading to you?
To me, there is absolutely, positively, unequivocally NOTHING positive about that word. It literally means a female dog, and I can't see beyond that definition. If anyone decides that it is okay to call me that, I will definitely have a discussion with him or her. A loud discussion, but a discussion nonetheless.

You have found your own way to express alot of your ideas and share them with others. Tell us about your t-shirts and how that came about?
Growing up, I loved cartoons, comic books, puppetry - anything that attracted attention and was fun and lively. The first T-shirt I remember having said "Smart Cookie" and had chocolate chip cookies for O's. I loved the originality of it. In recent years, I saw a resurgence of popularity in T-shirts, and I always got a good laugh at some of the clever sayings I have seen on them. I started out wanting some of my own, but I decided that instead of just buyng someone else's design, I could make my own designs and express myself however I wanted. My first design was "America Bless God", which came about after the terrorists attacks on September 11. My Sunday School teacher at the time said, "Instead of saying 'God bless America', it needs to be 'America bless God'." The wheels began to turn in my head, and I haven't stopped since.

Though you are reaching new people everyday through your website as well as your blog, is there something you haven't done that you look forward to?
I really want to get back into drawing, painting and poetry. I have the materials to do it now, but I've been procrastinating (a bad habit of mine), and I need to just dive in and create something. I also want to write a book about my experience with depression, panic attacks and attempted suicide. Most of all, I want to improve my piano skills beyond just playing scales, learn to play the guitar, violin and clarinet, and get some training to improve my singing ability.

Latasha, thank you so much for your time. Do you have any advice for those who are reading this who might be interested in pursuing their dream as an artist?
Whatever you do, don't sit on your dreams. Do everything you can to make your dreams come true while you have a chance. Even if things don't work out, at least you know you tried.

How can they find out more about your blog as well as your other projects?
Anyone can read my blog at http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/willis.php. My T-shirts can be purchased at http://www.zazzle.com/reasontolive. I plan to add other items such as posters, mugs and greeting cards to the list.

Profile: Richelle Putnam, President of MS Writers Guild

2007-01-16T09:12:00.000-08:00

In the state of Mississippi there are few who are involved in the creative community like Richelle Putnam.
By sharing her love for the Arts with others, it has fueled her own creativity and given her success and motivation to continue on her path. Throughout the good times, however, she has experienced bumps along the road that would cause many to give up on their dreams. But Richelle Putman is not like those people.
She has learned from unpleasant experiences and directed that energy into an organization in which she now serves as President. This conversation is for anyone who has given birth to a vision, followed it through and now enjoys the fruit of their labor.

Richelle, I have a lot of ground I want to cover with you, so let's just begin with your life as a creative person. When did you first realize that you had a love for the arts?My love for the arts must have been inbred in me because I’ve always loved to create, whether it is visual art pieces, music, or stories. My mother encouraged her children’s creativity. My sister, Robyn, and I were performing before Mother and the neighborhood when we were in elementary school. Plus, Mother had this wonderful volume of books of famous writers, my favorites being Oscar Wilde and Edgar Allen Poe, that I began reading in the third grade.

For many they find the arts as an escape. Did you ever see them in this way, and what are your earliest memories of how your work was accepted by others?I began taking my writing seriously in my late teens, writing poetry about war and love (they seem to go hand in hand) and yes it was an escape from not only traumatic political times such as Vietnam and the Civil Rights Movement, but in growing up in a single parent home. My mom worked hard to provide for us, but, let’s face it: Moms can only do so much (I can say that now that I’m a mom) and she had three teenagers to deal with. I still have most of my first (really bad) pieces. After I taught myself how to play the guitar, I put my poetry to song. In my mid-twenties, I joined some of my dear musician friends and we formed a band called “The Magnatones.” They had a recording studio in their house and we recorded reels of my songs. It was these guys, Philip Whaley, Joey Etheridge, Terry Rush, Leon Williams, and Lamar McKenzie who really encouraged me and cheered me on in my writing and I’ll always be indebted to them for their support. I’m in the process of trying to get those songs onto CDs.

Who have been your biggest cheerleaders in the campaign you have waged for the arts?Well, first and foremost, I have to give my husband, Tim, credit for his continued support in my endeavors. He has always had faith in my writing and he is the one who suggested that I really go for it. I took my first writing course in 1994 and he continues to encourage my educational pursuit in creative writing. My mom and sister have been great supporters, as have my four children. But my writing friends in Mississippi Writers Guild share that same passion and dream and we talk for hours and hours about writing and never feel that we have covered enough ground. Having a support group like that is crucial to a writer because it encourages you when you’re rejected and cheers when you’re accepted.

Visiting your website www.richelleputnam.net it is incredible to me all that you have been able to accomplish and experience. Do you ever look back on it all and marvel at how the arts have shaped your life?Yes, actually I do. What I see most is how I’ve grown from that first accepted piece to now. And the reasons for that growth have been persistence, diligence, consistency, and downright stubbornness. That’s what I want to share with new writers. That’s what I want them to see when they look at my page. Not how much I’ve accomplished (though that does come into play), but how a writer keeps going and never gives up. Believe me; my rejection bio would fill many, many pages. Also, I want whoever visits my page to know that I believe in writing and I’m all about writing, so when I offer any services relating to writing, like articles on writing or workshops or writing courses, they can weigh my credentials for doing so.

You wrote on one webpage that you "enjoyed the southern flavor of hospitality, family and friendship, but observed and experienced the negative aspects and lasting affects of social and racial prejudice." Tell us how that shaped the person you have become and how you express that through your writing.As I said earlier, I experienced first-hand Vietnam and the Civil Rights Movement, both of which affected my growth as a person tremendously. I was in one of those southern families that had a full-time maid because both my parents worked. Blanche was a second mother to me and I loved her like one. But there were things I always questioned, like why blacks always went to the back of the bus. Always. I remember getting on the bus as a child of probably eight or nine and going all the way down the aisle to the long seat in the back. I loved that long seat. To me, bigger was better. There I plopped down amid all these black ladies and men and never thought once about it. The bus driver would not pull away from the curb until I came up front. I was embarrassed because of all the attention I drew, but mostly I was confused. Sure, I knew everything was separate, water fountains, restrooms, waiting rooms, but the difference between the two were so substantial that even as a child it made me wonder why. No, I didn’t question it out loud, that I remember, because it was a way of life, but I wanted to. Why was my Blanche not able to eat lunch with me downtown or take me to the restroom or sit beside me on the bus? Children in the fifties were sheltered and unspoken issues haunted the air like hot and cold fronts about to collide. And they did. They had to. As a teen, I fell into peer pressure. I lived in Jackson and the school systems were experiencing havoc. Students were pulling out and going to council schools. The summer of ’70, before my senior year began in the fall, I befriended a really cool girl who lived not far from me. When school started, I gave her a ride to and from school.

One afternoon she asked if I could give this guy a ride home and I said, “Yes.” It was a black guy and he asked if I could give one of his friends a ride home. I hesitated, but said, “Yes.” It turned out that she and the black guy were sort of going together. I didn’t want any of my other friends at school see me drive off with this racially mixed group. I felt all these accusing, judgmental eyes on me as I drove the streets of Jackson, Mississippi and I knew I never wanted to feel like that again. I went against what in my heart I knew was right and went with what was comfortable. I quit hanging around with my friend. I never told her why, but I think she knew. I watched her slowly be devoured by blacks and whites. Black girls attacked her for being with a black guy. White girls attacked her for being with a black guy. She got pregnant in high school and her family disowned her. I have dreams about my friend. My mind wanders to her at the weirdest moments and sometimes the guilt is so heavy to carry. She was persecuted and judged and sentenced all because she didn’t see color.

That will stay with me the rest of my life. I have done much research on slavery and the road leading to the Civil Rights Movement and I understand so much more about the political veil that was placed over our entire state and the repercussions that still exist even though it’s better now.

Can you remember the first time you saw your name either on a bookshelf or by-line of an article? What kind of validation did that give you for the work that you had done up to that point?My first published piece, “The Quintessence of Romance,” was winner in a contest and was a personal experience piece about my husband’s cancer. There is no feeling like having your work out there for the world to see. Not just because you’re finally published, but because your voice is being heard and your experiences are being shared with so many others.

Much has been said about the racial divide that seems to still abound in the South, including Mississippi. What's your opinion of the role that the arts have played in either improving that image or confirming it?The arts were and still are the open gate to the racial fence that divides us. If you step back to the fifties and turn right onto the music lane, you’ll find there was no racial line. Parents were scared to death because of this and that’s why some music artists were banned from radio airwaves. Also, poetry united men, women, races, and cultures. We were no longer afraid to share our dreams, our anger, and our hurts through the arts. Fear is what divides us. Not race. Not culture. Art has no fear because it has no limits; it has no boundaries. Art is expression and expression is free. Free expression is what this country was founded on. Why do we make this so hard?

Being President of the Mississippi Writers Guild puts you in a position to network with those who use words to make a difference throughout the state. Do you think that writing receives the credit it is due?Writing does not receive the credit it is due because the system has turned it into a task, rather than including it as an art. Give a child a piece of paper and what do they do? They draw. That’s wonderful, yes, but what does it tell us? If a child draws a picture, that picture is usually hung on a board at school or on the refrigerator at home. If a child writes a piece for school, red marks end up on it that say, “This is not good enough. You have made a mistake. You must change this to make it right.” Children don’t feel intimidated when they draw. Why do they feel intimidated when they write? “Creative” Writing is just that. Creative. And if you notice, the “Creative” comes before the “writing.” Allow the creativity first, with all the misspelled words, the incomplete sentences, whatever. Let them find their voice and story—first. How can we expect them to engage the right-sided imagination if we’re forcing their left-side to dominate the structure of it?

To piggyback off the last question, Richelle, I am curious as to how you feel about the role that television, video games and other activities seem to play in the lives of young people in the place of reading and writing.Young people are no different than us. They loved to be entertained. The problem is that they don’t realize how much more entertaining it is to actually do the “entertaining.” Poetry slams, literary performing, acting out plays you’ve written, where are these outlets in our educational system or in our state for that matter? Cyrus, I am in awe of your accomplishments within the educational system and in your activities outside the school system. You have encouraged youth to participate in the arts, but you have also provided them an outlet in order to do so. It’s easy to talk about what youth should be doing or could be doing, but stepping up to the plate and actually doing it, well, it takes a strong capable person to do that. Some of the state’s “whole” schools are doing a wonderful job in this area, but we need more. We need organizations like Mississippi Writers Guild (MWG) partnering with other art organizations to do this very thing. Right now, MWG is partnering with Meridian Museum of Art in their People’s Choice Awards by offering a writing competition to writers 15 and up. Writers visit the museum, choose one of the art pieces, and then write about that piece in a poem of 32 lines or less or a prose piece in less than 500 words. You can view this competition at www.mississippiwritersguild.com for contest details. It’s going to be lots of fun. Hope some of your youth will participate.

We all know that words indeed have power. Can you share some words of wisdom that have been passed on to you along your journey?“Writing heals.” This is one of the most powerful facets of the writing world and one that writers might not take advantage of. I have facilitated journaling workshops with the trustees of our detention center in Meridian and the results have been tremendous. I have also researched how when the hand takes the pen, something happens in the brain. In the book, “With Pen in Hand,” by Henriette Anne Klauser, PhD, published by Perseus Publishing, she states that,
“…translating events into language can affect brain and immune functions.
…subjects tested had an increase in germ-fighting lymphocytes in their blood and lower stress levels.”
…(writing) has been found to reduce anxiety and depression, improve grades in college, and…aid people in securing jobs.”
Now, if writing is that powerful, why isn’t everyone doing it?

Over your artistic career, what has been one of the highlights that you refer to when things don't seem to be going as well as you would like?Hmm. With reference to my writing, probably the 3rd place in the Mainstream/Literary Category of Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition for “Confessions of a Single Mother.”

This is a story that had gone through many revision stages, to the point that I was sick of it. But still I loved the story. I loved the characters. I wanted this story to succeed. I feel this way about many of my stories and when they don’t succeed at first, I think about “Confessions.”
With reference to Mississippi Writers Guild, seeing where it is now versus where it was a year ago. Developing an organization is very hard work. It takes lots of time, energy, and effort. MWG has a very strong board, thanks to people like you, Cyrus, and with people like that it’s impossible for other writers not to feel the positive vibes emanating from them. Plus, when obstacles pop up that we have to hurdle over, I think of how badly Mississippi needs an organization like Mississippi Writers Guild and that keeps me going.

Is there a goal that you have yet to see realized with the arts in your area?More events focused on the craft of writing; conferences with intense workshops, writer retreats, more literary performances that include seniors, young people, at-risk teens, and minority groups, more writers coming to schools and working with students.

What is next for the Mississippi Writers Guild and how can others find out more information.MWG is sponsoring its first writing competition by partnering with Meridian Museum of Art’s People’s Choice Award, which I mentioned earlier. Also, we are starting the ground work on what we believe will be the best writer’s conference in the south. This is targeted for late summer 2007. We hope to have a keynote speaker on Friday night with a reception and book signing. All day Saturday will be intense workshops with editors and agents and published authors. We will have formal critiques by those same editors and agents and published authors and a closing panel discussion. Plus, we hope to integrate our first statewide writing competition with the awards being given out at the closing event. Stay tuned for that. Visit the website often for updates.

Thank you again, Richelle for taking out this time with us. Do you have any last words of encouragement for those who might be reading this and interested in pursuing a career as an author or columnist?Join Mississippi Writers Guild. Why? Because we have writers who will encourage you. We have information and resources that will pull you away from the predators and scams and steer you in the right direction. We can help you polish your craft and mentor you in the process of submission. New, inexperienced, or experienced writers will benefit from MWG.