Words with P.R. (Edition 12) - Nobody Wins When the Family Feuds

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Friday, June 17, 2022

I am happy to finally be recapping the time I had at last month’s Invictus Pro Wrestling show in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey. It was one of the first big wrestling shows that would bring my favorite people in black wrestling together again since Wrestlemania 38 in Dallas. However, this one was special because it indeed was a family affair.

If you listen to my wrestling podcast, you have heard me talk about how my Dad got us all into wrestling. When I was growing up in the 90’s, it was all about watching Monday Night RAW. The weekly program during the “Attitude Era” was must-watch television. This was before streaming, YouTube, etc. So you had to make sure that you watched it when it aired or you would miss out. It was truly an exciting time, and I feel lucky to have experienced this with my family.

The monthly pay-per-views though is when the entire family got together. I have always been blessed to live down the hall from my God family. My Godmother, sister, and brothers were always close enough so that we can share our lives together. And wrestling, there was no exception. On those Sunday nights, they would come down the hall to watch the shows with us. My mom would cook a big meal, and it was the one Sunday a month where we could all stay up past my bedtime.

My Dad is surprised that we all still love wrestling the way that we do. But I think the most surprising part for him and me is the impact it had on my Godbrother, who is now a wrestler named J Boujii.  

When I got back into wrestling around 2015, I was in love with it all over again. But it was the history and what goes on outside of the ring that fascinated me the most. This led to creating the podcast. However, when I talked to my Godbrother, it was all about what was inside the ring. He told me that he was working towards the goal of the Best Wrestler in the World.

You know at first, I was kind of worried and also like, are you sure you want to do this? The more I learned about the wrestling business, especially breaking into it, the more I was concerned that he was in way over his head. J Boujii, real name John Ruebel, was born in 1997 and was really close to my twin sister Letty and I. Letty and I were the youngest, so when John was born it was the first time we had someone younger to be around. So from the day he was born, we were protective of him.

He assured me that he knew what he was doing and was training with the best. I was able to watch him in some of his first matches and at the gym he was training with. Going to Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn where he trained with WWE Hall of Famer Johnny Rodz, my concern eased greatly when I was able to see what a leader John was. He was smart, mature, and determined to make it and for the wrestling business to work for him.

So after having a couple of years of the wrestling podcast under my belt, I was able to reconnect with John to see how we can work together in wrestling because we exist on completely different sides of things — him being the athlete in the ring telling stories, and me commenting on wrestling outside of the ring. Earlier this year, I noticed that he was going to be in the biggest match of his career thus far.  

J Boujii and the other three members of his faction, Takeover, were facing one of the most popular and successful factions on the independent wrestling scene, Shane Taylor Promotions. I was so excited because we all knew that this was the moment that would put J. Boujii on the map. This match was going to be a game-changer.

In the months leading up to the Invictus Takeover vs STP show, my Godbrother went into overdrive promoting the show all over social media. And his opponent Rev Ron Hunt of STP, did all that he could to hype the match. After an eventful Instagram Live, the hype was tangible as it became a Croc vs Ring light debate, which brought wrestling podcast producer Brian H. Waters into the storyline. So, the most anticipated match for the Takeover vs STP show was now a Bodega Street Fight having J. Boujii facing Rev Ron Hunt with Brian H. Waters serving as the guest referee.

Brian, also a lifelong wrestling fan, lived a dream that night in Ridgefield Park, NJ:

“Refereeing at Invictus Pro was an experience of a lifetime. As a pro wrestling fan, for my entire life I never thought that I would have an opportunity to do such a job.

Being in the ring, you could feel the electricity of the moment as both J. Boujii and Rev Ron Hunt entered the ring. ‘Big fight feel’ would be the best way to describe it.

During the match, I was doing my best not to mess up. I didn’t want to draw attention to myself or get in the way. Both men are professionals and knew that this was my first time being a referee, so they were patient with me.

The stipulation was if J. Boujii won, I would have to wear Crocs. He did get in my face one time, so my hands may have hit the surface a little quickly when Ron pinned him the first time. But in the end, I did count to three and unfortunately wear those Crocs. But one thing I can say… I was fair.

This is def something I would love to do it again… if the storyline dictates it.”

You can watch the full match here.

I could not be more proud of my Godbrother and his crew that came up in Gleason’s Gym. It was a night that showed me that I had nothing to worry about when it came to John. If anything, I became the biggest J. Boujii fan and can not wait to see how far he goes in this business. And what made that show the most memorable wrestling event I have ever been to, is that it was truly a family affair.

My Godsister Ivory (John’s mother) was there, my twin sister Letty took phenomenal photos of the event, and my closest friends Krista B., Seindole, Justin, Janelle and Dre of Jobber Tears Podcast were there. Brian H. Waters, one of my favorite people in the wrestling space, traveled from Baltimore, Maryland to guest referee, bringing along his Wrestling Wrealm brother Hugh.

The funniest part though is that during the Bodega Street Fight, I was so happy to be there I pretty much cheered for everyone. Much to my Godsister’s chagrin, who hated that I cheered for Ron. But I am also a Shane Taylor Promotions fan. I was just so happy about both Takeover and the STP factions getting more recognition. And then to have Brian, Hugh, and Letty a part of it, and my friends sitting front row, I was just soo happy to be there.

This show emphasized that it is important to support your friends and family at any level. And everything is more special when there are loved ones around. I can not wait to do more in the independent wrestling space that will continue to uplift the black community.

MEET

Stephen Thompson, CEO of SZN Media

I met Stephen in Dallas, Texas through Brian who was his mentor when they were at Morgan State together. He shared that he also worked in media, recently moved to New Jersey from Maryland, and wanted to do more with his business, SZN Media.

What are your goals for SZN Media?

Stephen: My goals with SZN Media is to bring seasons to life! This can be anything a client may need from a media standpoint in order to propel them in their purpose. Overall, my goal for SZN Media is to grow it to a successful marketing agency with a full staff and office environment.

What is the best piece of advice you have received? 

Stephen: The best piece of advice I heard was “Impact”. Impact is an abbreviation that my grandfather used and it means “I must personally act.” This means that within life, I am in many situations and it’s up to me to make change and provide action when necessary.

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TIPS

In 2022, nothing matters in life if you do not create media content surrounding it. Think about it, do we do anything without documenting it on social media? Whether its checking in on Facebook, posting photos on Instagram, or creating TikToks, we all feel the compulsion to capture moments and curate them for the world for your followers to see. Your social media presence, depending on what you do for a living, is the snapshot of who you are as a person. That is a lot of pressure, but it is important to make sure that it is the highest quality.

So make sure that when you do capture these moments, like when I wanted to get good memories of J. Bouji’’s big match, take the time to have professional photographers, videographers, etc. Investing in your brand is the best thing you can do .

Words with P.R. (Edition 11) - Mystic Meg is on POINT!

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Monday, June 13, 2022

Intro

So, sometimes things are just cosmic.

Mystic Meg has been on POINT.

My sun sign is Capricorn, my moon is Cancer and my rising sign is Gemini. To be honest, I have no idea what any of that means, but at the same time I feel like it means everything. Astrology is fun and gives you a fun and light-hearted something to help you make sense of the world.

I have always been into astrology ever since my older sister Nakia introduced my twin sister and me to it when we were in junior high school. I love reading up on the traits of Capricorn women and finding similarities to my own personality. Again, I do not know how much stake to put into it, but it is fun to see how they can match up to what life really is.

Recently my horoscope has been on point. When I used to read my horoscope, every now and then I felt it said something that was just what I was going through in my life. But the past couple of weeks it has been more aligned with what I have been going through in my personal, professional, and love life.

I read,

You are living the dream but it can always be better.

I have to stop saying that I am "lucky" when good things happen to me. I am incredibly blessed and thankful for the people I have in my life, the opportunities I thought I would never have.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

QUEEN P.R.’S PICKS

The Whitney Museum

I do not go to art museums as much as I want to because I don’t want to go alone, and when I drag my friends, I can not really enjoy myself. I like to look at every single painting and read every description. But I was able to go to the Whitney Museum, which is located in the Meatpacking District, last month for a couple of exhibits I was excited about:

The Whitney Biennial, At the Dawn of the New age: Early Twentieth-Century American Modernism, and The Whitney’s Collection: Selections from 1900 to 1965.

The pieces were thought-evoking, and I found myself stopping at certain ones and even being drawn to paintings when I walked into another room.

Some of my favorites were the pop-culture inspired sculptures, and the pieces by Georgia O'Keeffe. The pastels, vibrancy and details in the exhibits were truly breathtaking.

The day in general was one of those nice Saturdays in New York: A day at the museum, walk to Tribeca to finally enjoy the Harry Potter store, and ending it with drinks at Barcade.

If you are in the NYC area, check out the Whitney Museum.

SHOUTOUT TO THE MIXED TAG SHOW

The Mixed Tag Show was one of the first wrestling podcasts of color I discovered on social media, mainly because I knew ½ of the duo, Blue, from my time in New Jersey. I met Blue through a good friend of mine, Marie David, who I bonded with over our ambition. She worked for him at Hot 97, and Blue was a close friend of the David family. Me and him both missed her brand launch party because we got tickets to go to Wrestlemania 29 which happened to be in New Jersey in 2013 when she launched LadiSav. So me and Blue bonded over being wrestling fans.

Fast forward 5 years later, and he has launched his own wrestling podcast with Jenna Baybee, a Brooklyn-based Sasha Banks fanatic who is beautiful, stylish and knows her wrestling. Their dynamic is that of a big brother and little sister. Their skits in affiliation with the WWE Shop also helped put them on the map as one of the more entertaining wrestling podcasts out there.

Recently, I was asked to be a part of their live stream on Twitch discussing the narrative about former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks and Naomi “walking out” of a May episode of WWE Raw. I also streamed it from Those Wrestling Girls’ Twitch & Youtube, and it is already our most-watched piece of content ever. The title “Black Women Need More Respect” says it all. I thank Blue and Jenna for inviting me on. And also to Doc of Bleacher Report for being a gracious guest.

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TIPS

Upcoming Events & Community Building

When it comes to networking horizontally, no one does that better than the black wrestling fan community. Ever since Jobber Slam last summer, an all-black wrestling event presented by Jobber Tear’s Podcast Network, we have been having what we call “family reunions” at events all year long.

After that it was the meet-up after WWE SmackDown at Madison Square Garden, my first live wrestling show since after the pandemic, then our 3rd anniversary event in Midtown Dallas for Wrestlemania 38, and now it’s time for Black Wrestle Fest for Juneteenth weekend in Brooklyn, and Jobber Slam 2. Oh, and we are already planning our 4th anniversary event in October in New York City. So stay tuned for that.

Now, during the pandemic I put a lot of time into the digital side of our brand, cultivating our online community by hosting watch-alongs over Zoom, etc. But when things got back to normal, it was time to make sure we were building community in real life.

So, we are hoping to be a part of more indie wrestling, getting back to the reason why we love wrestling in the first place. Since Dallas, I have joined friends at the Battle Club Pro show in Brooklyn, Invitus Pro, and coming up this summer: Black Wrestle Fest, Black Girl Magik, Jobber Slam and planning our 4th anniversary event in October in New York City.

Words with P.R. (Edition 10) - Patricia the Optimist is BACK!

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Saturday, June 11, 2022

INTRO 

This is a milestone edition! Late, but still here. And I can not help but appreciate that timing… is going to do what it is going to do. And you know what? We should be thankful to even be on this ride called life. 

Yes, Patricia the Optimist is back and it feels good. Although I know it is temporary. You can plan. You can prep. You can wish for the best. But sometimes, it is what it is. You take things day by day and roll with the punches. 

Roll with the punches — this is absolutely easier said than done. But when you actually can do this when things don’t go as planned, it is life-changing. 

I say, ride the wave! 

View fullsize

View fullsize

MEET & SHOUT OUT TO DOC & COREY

My family always wanted me to go to a Historically Black College/University, but I did not. And I must say that is one of my regrets. 

However, I am glad that my choices have led me to where I am now. And I have been blessed to have had so many amazing people in my life that have gone to HBCUs. It has been a pleasure to see the work that my friends have been doing in the community. 

I caught up with Doc, a lifelong wrestling fan who hosts a wrestling panel every year for the HBCU Con, and his nephew Corey, who was on this year’s panel.

This year’s HBCU Con took place on April 29 - May 1, 2022.

What makes HBCU Con special? 

Doc: It took a dope Black woman in the form of my friend and fellow Blerd (black nerd) named Chauna "CC The Geek" Lawson (who is an HBCU alumni from Bowie State University) to create a convention that mixes pop culture, comics, anime, etc. with an HBCU theme to it. You not only get the feel of expressing your fandom in whatever your interests are but you get the experience of what HBCU campus life could look like for those who could be potential prospective students interested in attending an HBCU. It could open that dialogue and network between those individuals and a variety of HBCU alumni that were a part of this very special convention. Not to mention, what pop culture convention do you know of that has a step show? Dare I say, HBCU Con was indeed "A Different World" than where you come from.

What HBCU did you attend? 

Doc: I am a proud alumni of Coppin State University in Baltimore, MD (since graduating in 2001) in which I am currently 2nd Vice President of our alumni association. Plus, my fellow Coppin alumni named Wendell Smith is the Vice President of HBCU Con.

What is your favorite part of HBCU Con? 

Doc: Well, other than my wrestling panel (lol), I enjoyed the outdoor Yardfest Performances where a host of great musical talents who blend their mixture of R&B/Hip Hop & Pop with a Blerd feel to it. For instance, the group Mako Girls give you those Destiny Child/TLC vibes, but they blend that with their love for nerdom and it shows in their dope costumes. Another one in which I admit of being bias to is my friend Roquois (pronounced like Iroquois but without the "i") who is a cosplayer extraordinaire and a very polished independent artist that mixes pop with nerdom but also with fashion in which she herself has done many runways throughout the country. Not to mention Roquois co-runs Plus Value Entertainment which puts on so many nerd events in the DMV.

Corey: My favorite part of HBCU Con is honestly seeing everyone enjoying themselves. From the different informational panels and discussions to seeing everyone dressed up as their favorite characters from different movies, comics, TV shows, etc., HBCU Con shows the creativity and passion from everyone involved, and I think that is such a cool thing to see.

What makes HBCU Con special?

Corey: I think what makes HBCU Con special is the camaraderie and unity amongst the fans of a community coming together and enjoying themselves in possibly the most pivotal time of their young adulthood. Making this event available at a time where someone could be looking for some common ground in their life with peers that they may not even have known existed in their same class or dormitory, especially with being away from home, for some, could be just the kind of positive balance they need in their life at this time.

What HBCU did you attend?

Corey: I attended 2 HBCUs for my educational career. I received my Bachelor’s Degree from University of Maryland Eastern Shore and I received my Master’s Degree from Bowie State University.

I HAVE LEARNED THAT…

Turning down your dream job.

I have always been obsessed with my career and what I wanted that to look like. My career ambitions always topped things like wanting to be a mother or be married. 

So at various points in my life, there was a “dream job” I was pursuing. And I was so rigid about it and really put myself through the ringer when I felt like the course does not match that. 

And then I realized in the past year that maybe your idea of a dream job, is something totally different. You think you want a specific thing, but when you get there it looks nothing like you imagined. Now it is time for something different, because you know what, this ain’t it. 

Over the past year I have been presented — no, actually blessed — with a couple of opportunities that I thought was my “big break.” On paper, these roles were perfect for me. I don’t want to mention the roles or companies, but there were jobs that mixed wrestling, media, and more. But it was not aligned with my mission, etc. 

SOCIAL MEDIA/MARKETING TIPS

That time I got cancelled.

Haha yes, I got cancelled. Well, this was the first time where I ever thought, oh shit, did I get my podcast cancelled over a misread tweet? 

So y’all know how much I love Twitter. I have been on the platform, I am kind of ashamed to say, since 2009. It is a space where I express myself, and I never want to be in a position where I need to defend anything I tweet. Although I have nearly 3,000 Twitter followers, I still use it for me. So I don’t ever feel the need to stop myself from tweeting whatever the fuck I want or feeling the need to explain myself. 

However, when you have a brand that you represent on social media, you kind of have to be mindful of what you say. Anything you post, like, and share on whatever app you are on is a reflection of the brand. This is a lot of pressure especially when it comes to wrestling which is already known to have a passionate fan base. 

While watching a wrestling documentary, I tweeted something in my sarcastic tone from our brand page and it got misconstrued. When the documentary aired, I live-tweeted it as I always do and commented on a person’s reaction to Twitter cancelling him for some really fucked up shit he said about woke culture. People took it as me supporting him, when it was me noting that he actually didn’t care about wrestling Twitter “cancelling” him because he is a shitty human being. 

When I tweeted it the night of, I muted it because I knew it would get a lot of traction because it was a polarizing topic. However, I did not think that it would get the hate that it got. I only found out when I was on my personal page and came across tweets questioning us and shaming us. We lost followers, people were throwing hate at us from all directions. I tried to explain what I meant in a thread, but most people didn’t give a fuck or chose to hate us even more. 

Now, we have had major disagreements with other fans about various things. Especially during the Black Lives Matter times, and just having to defend female athletes’ honour on a daily basis. And Krista B. and I really don’t care if people don’t agree with us because it is fucking wrestling. It is all scripted and really, to each its own. Who cares if you think Becky Lynch is better than Charlotte Flair? Like in the bigger picture, is it really that deep? 

However, this particular tweet has a lot to do with the Me Too movement so it was a little deeper than that. And it hurt that people would think that our brand would be anything but being an ally for women. So I had to get off Twitter for a couple of days, which was a first for me, and really detach myself from everything so that I did not take things personally. And that is when I was like, oh shit, is that what it feels like to be cancelled? 

For 4 years, TWG has been a beloved brand. In wrestling terms, you would call us “baby faces.” So this was the very first time that I even belied or cared that we might actually get shunned and have to go into obscurity over one fucking tweet. 

But I reached out to some of my friends and family in the wrestling media community, and they assured me that everything was going to be fine and to just keep doing my thing. It was such a blessing in disguise to almost get cancelled because it actually showed me who were my real friends and who had my back. 

Celebrating Jersey Pride in Asbury Park (RECAP)

By Sonia Schnee | Posted Saturday, June 11, 2022

On Sunday, June 5th, the sun was shining and the weather was a comfortable 70-something degrees as Asbury Park hosted New Jersey’s 30th Annual Statewide LGBTQ+ Pride Celebration. Jersey Indie photographer David Ross Lawn was on the scene capturing moments from the parade, which featured “floats, decorated vehicles, marching bands, and enthusiastic marchers “ (learn more at jerseypride.org).

A thank you to David and to the parade participants (see names/descriptions below).

Happy Pride Month!

(Click on a photo to enlarge it.)

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

Parade Participants

(signed up as of 6/1/22. See more at jerseypride.org/the-parade)

180 Turning Lives Around - “180 Turning Lives Around empowers survivors and families affected by domestic violence and sexual assault to find the courage and strength to turn their lives around. 180 is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and receives financial support from individuals, government and civic agencies, faith-based organizations, corporations, and foundations. Gifts to 180 are tax-deductible to the full extent possible under IRS regulations.” Learn more at https://180nj.org/

3WheeledMotion - “It's not just a ride, it's a lifestyle.” Learn more at https://www.instagram.com/3wheeledmotion

Atlantic Shores offshore wind - “Charting the course for offshore wind energy solutions on the Atlantic Coast.” Learn more at https://www.atlanticshoreswind.com/

Atonement Lutheran Church - “The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Atonement in Asbury Park is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. We are a Reconciling In Christ congregation welcoming people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.” Learn more at https://atonementlutheranchurch.com/

Bank of America - “The power to build connections, one story at a time.” Learn more at https://about.bankofamerica.com/en

Barnegat High School Gender/Sexuality Alliance - “The Gender/Sexuality Alliance at Barnegat High School serves two purposes:

The first is to create a safe environment for student self-expression. This includes celebration of students' achievements - regardless of their gender or sexual identity - and support for anyone who encounters struggles related to their interpersonal relationships and sense of self. 

The second is to help educate others in our community so that we can foster an overall atmosphere of understanding and mutual acceptance. “ Learn more at https://www.barnegatschools.com/domain/1675

BCIT GLOW Club - Burlington County Institute of Technology. “GLOW is a student driven Gender and Sexuality Alliance that meets twice monthly socially and to discuss the atmosphere of the school in regards to tolerance and acceptance of all students no matter their diversity. GLOW's mission is to provide a safe and accepting place for all students to be themselves without fear of judgement, harassment, intimidation or bullying. “ Learn more: https://sites.google.com/burlcoschools.org/glowclub/home

Bergen Community College LGBTQIA+ Alliance - "Bergen Community College seeks to create an open, accepting, and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals on our campus. With this Center we hope to provide a space where individuals can access resources, increase communication to our LGBTQ+ population on campus, provide opportunities for connection (learn about Bergen PRIDE, our LGBTQ+ Alliance), learn about safe space trainings for faculty, staff and students and meet the growing community of faculty and staff who made a commitment to be an active ally for our LGBTQ+ community on campus. This Center seeks to foster an inclusive and engaged campus environment, supportive of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression for all members of this community on campus and in the larger community.” Learn more at https://bergen.edu/student-life/virtual-lgbtq-center/

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company - “We are a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases.” Learn more at https://www.bms.com/

Brown’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing - “FAMILY-OWNED HEATING, A/C & PLUMBING SERVICE Celebrating nearly 50 YEARS of serving Monmouth & Ocean counties in NJ!” Learn more at https://www.brownshc.com/

Church of the Precious Blood LGBTQ Ministry - “The Church of the Precious Blood's LGBT Faith Sharing Ministry welcomes and supports lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Catholic persons, their family and friends. We will share our faith through prayer, social justice and dialogue […] We seek to engage the larger community in recognizing that we are all members of God's family nad that we each have a place at the Table of the Lord. ALL ARE WELCOME - whether you are LGBT, have an LGBT family member or loved one or just want to know more about this ministry, please know that YOU are welcome!” Learn more at https://churchofthepreciousblood.org/105

City of Asbury Park - Learn more at https://www.cityofasburypark.com/

ConnectiveRX - “Healthcare is a very human experience. We make the prescription part as pain free as possible.” Learn more at https://www.connectiverx.com/

CrossFit Speakeasy - “Welcome to Crossfit Speakeasy. THE JERSEY SHORE’S PREMIERE CROSSFIT GYM. Rob Blake opened CrossFit Speakeasy in the beginning of 2013. Exactly two years later, Emmy Simpkins came on as a partner. Together, we strive to provide high quality coaching, programming and facilities to help you reach your health goals. Our 3,000 sq. ft. space is located in the heart of Belmar, NJ on 8th Ave., just half a mile from the beach. Our facility is equipped with bathrooms, showers, day care services and many different programs to fit your busy schedule.” Learn more at http://www.crossfitspeakeasy.com/

Crystal Head Vodka - “Creativity is at the heart of everything we do. It is why we craft the purest, smoothest vodka with one of a kind packaging and imaginative thinking. Crystal Head uses only the highest-quality ingredients to create unique expressions of ultra-premium vodka that are completely additive-free. Original, crafted from locally sourced Canadian corn, Aurora, crafted from English wheat, and Onyx, crafted from Blue Weber agave. We do it for all the creative spirits who think differently—to inspire them in their creative pursuits and to bring out their creativity, without compromise. Unlike other vodka brands, Crystal Head views the world differently, without limitations.

The Crystal Head bottle was designed with the creative spirit in mind by creative people. Together, Dan Aykroyd and John Alexander designed the iconic skull shaped bottle as a symbol of life, reflecting power and enlightenment. Only the best to hold their multi-award-winning spirit.

#VodkaForTheCreativeSpirit” Learn more at https://www.crystalheadvodka.com/age_check

Dragonslair - “DRAGONSLAIR Productions is a community-driven production company bringing you contests, fundraising events, and more to enhance the lifestyle we work for and deserve.

DRAGONSLAIR is another success in the partnership of Sal Susino & Dion Daly, life partners for over 35 years. The two have been instrumental in community organizing and fundraising since the mid 1980s, when they organized the first AIDS fundraiser in Asbury Park at The Odyssey.

Over the years Daly & Susino have been involved with and co-founded several gay, HIV, and leather organizations including the first NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt chapter in NJ, and The Promethean Guard.

Together with Tom Harrison whom they have loved and mentored for over a decade, they produce the Mr. & Ms NJ Leather Contests and the annual Foreplay block party, as well as a number of other events throughout the year. During the duration of their New Jersey Leather efforts, thousands of dollars have been raised for a diverse multitude of local and national charities.” Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/groups/135553116484243

Eaton Corporation - “Powering Business Worldwide. We make what matters work.*

*Developing more efficient, sustainable power management solutions that meet the ever-changing needs of our world.” Learn more at https://www.eaton.com/us/en-us.html

Edison Energy - “Accelerate your decarbonization journey. At Edison Energy, our mission is to create a sustainable, resilient, and equitable net zero future.” Learn more: https://www.edisonenergy.com/

EWR4 Glamazon - “Glamazon helps Amazon be a great place to work by educating and informing employees about the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and/or Queer (LGBTQ+) community and opportunities. The group mentors fellow employees (both LGBTQ+ and allies) and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. Amazon is more visible within the LGBTQ+ community-at-large by sponsoring events and PRIDE around the globe. Glamazon supported the creation of a Transgender Toolkit for managers and employees to use when going through a gender transition in the workplace. In 2019, thanks to the efforts of glamazon working with leaders across the company, we were honored again to receive a 100 Score on the HRC Corporate Equality Index, a US benchmarking tool on corporate policies and practices pertinent to LGBTQ employees.” Learn more: https://www.aboutamazon.com/affinity-groups

FLAGGOTS - “The original FLAGGOTS of NYC, Philadelphia and NJ has been entertaining audiences with a unique sense of pride since 1991.” Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/71117477175/

Fourth Wave Studios DBA 10PRL - “🎥Studio Rentals 🎉 Event Space 🎞 Productions 🏢6500 Sqft 🎆Cyc Wall 💃🏻Dance Studio @10prl_events 🎉 @10prl_productions 🎞” Learn more: https://www.10prl.com/

Friday Nite Specials - "The Friday Nite Specials Cast. Bringing you the full Rocky Horror Picture Show experience every other Friday at 10pm! Basie Center Cinemas, 36 White Street, Red Bank, NJ." Learn more: https://www.rockyhorrornj.com/

Fulfill NJ - FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties - “Fulfill’s mission is to alleviate hunger and build food security in Monmouth & Ocean Counties and to make sure that all people at all times have access to enough nutritious food to maintain an active and healthy life.” Learn more: https://fulfillnj.org/

Garden State Equality - “Garden State Equality is the largest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization in New Jersey, with over 150,000 members. Established in 2004, we are now one of the most successful statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organizations in the nation […] Our services include advocacy, policy work, and trainings. We work to address safe environments for youth, improvement of health services that meet LGBTQ+ community needs, and respectful treatment of seniors. Beyond that, Garden State Equality supports New Jersey’s activist community by bringing an LGBTQ+ lens to the shared struggle for justice.” Learn more: https://www.gardenstateequality.org/

Gay Officers Action League New York - “Serving LGBTQ Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Professionals from all agencies, and the LGBTQIA+ community with pride since 1982.” Learn more: https://www.goalny.org/

Georgie’s Bar - “GEORGIES: AN ASBURY TRADITION SINCE 1999. For almost 20 years, Georgie's has been a stronghold for the LGBTQ community of Asbury Park and the surrounding shore area. Now that we are coming into our third decade, Georgies will remain dedicated to our patrons, our various charities, and the greater Asbury Park community.” Learn more: https://georgiesbarap.com/

Good Boy Training - “We are a dog lover, just like you. Positive reinforcement training is an extremely important practice to me and one of my top priorities as a pet trainer. Having worked with many adult dogs who struggle with anxiety and reactivity issues, I have a special passion for working with puppies to prevent these issues from developing in the first place. My goal is to provide you with the tools you need to have the dog of your dreams." Learn more: https://goodboytrainingasbury.com/

Hackensack Meridian Health - “Hackensack Meridian Health is a leading not-for-profit health care organization that is the most comprehensive and truly integrated health care network in New Jersey, offering a complete range of medical services, innovative research and life-enhancing care. The health care network comprises 13 hospitals, including two academic medical centers, two children’s hospitals and nine community hospitals, physician practices, more than 120 ambulatory care centers, surgery centers, home health services, long-term care and assisted living communities, ambulance services, lifesaving air medical transportation, fitness and wellness centers, rehabilitation centers, and urgent care and after-hours centers.” Learn more: https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en

Hamilton United Methodist Church - "The Hamilton United Methodist Church is a church living out "God's Love In Action". Whether you are a lifelong United Methodist or have never stepped foot in a church before (or anywhere in between) you will find a home away from home within this community. For the time being we are living out our Methodist covenant to "do no harm" and have decided to offer worship both online and in-person, with safe practices in place." Learn more: https://www.hamiltonumc1.org/

Henry Hudson Regional School Gender & Sexuality Alliance - Learn more: https://hhrs.tridistrict.org/

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey - ”Our Mission: We empower our members to achieve their best health.” Learn more: https://www.horizonblue.com/

In God’s Image, Church of the Sacred Heart - “We welcome all who join us for worship and invite you to become part of our parish family. We encourage you to full and active participation in our parish life. New members are asked to register by contacting the Parish Center.” Learn more: https://www.churchofthesacredheart.net/in-gods-image/

Labcorp PRIDE ERGs - Learn more: https://www.labcorp.com/unique-perspectives/blog/meet-wayne-leading-newest-chapter-our-pride-employee-resource-group

Liberty Mutual Insurance Company - “Since 1912, we've grown our organization into the sixth largest global property and casualty insurer - based on 2020 gross written premium - by maintaining our commitment to the belief that progress happens when people feel secure. At Liberty Mutual Insurance we work hard every day to support our customers and our people, so they can protect their families, build their businesses and invest in their futures.

We are headquartered in Boston, but our people, our customers and our reach span the globe. So to better serve our global customers and employees, we are organized into three business units.” Learn more: https://www.libertymutual.com/

M&T Bank - “We were founded as Manufacturers and Traders Bank. Today, M&T Bank is one of the top 20 banks in the nation, but we operate as a community bank committed to strengthening the areas we serve.

As we have grown, our approach to banking has not changed. We are actively involved in our communities and focused on understanding our customers' needs.” Learn more: https://www3.mtb.com/

Make it Better for Youth INC - "Our Mission: The Monmouth County Consortium for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning Youth is a non-profit organization of concerned and determined educators, community leaders, arts and cultural organizations, businesses and individuals who are pooling resources and ideas to make it better with education, outreach, and social opportunities for our LGBTQ youth." Learn more: https://makeitbetter4youth.org/

Mando Mercs Costume Club: Raquor’daan Clan NJ - “NJ Chapter of the Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club. A Lucas Film/Disney Recognized, international Costumed Star Wars Charity Organization 100% Volunteers” Learn more: https://mandalorianmercs.org/

Mental Health Association in New Jersey - “The Mental Health Association in New Jersey is a statewide non-profit organization that strives for children and adults to achieve victory over mental health and substance use disorders through advocacy, education, training, and services.” Learn more: https://www.mhanj.org/

Merck - “We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world.” Learn more: https://www.merck.com/

Miss Gay New Jersey Association - “The MGNJA, Inc. is the oldest, longstanding Drag Entertainment organization in New Jersey. While its primary purpose is to raise monies for the Beacon Light Fund (BLF) it continues to successfully empower the performance art of drag entertainment.” Learn more: http://beaconlightfund.org/missgaynj/

Middletown Reformed Church - “We are a church committed to social justice, living out the command to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. We are a church on the side of love for all God’s people – providing for those who are in need, advocating for all oppressed peoples, and caring for our earth – we love because God first loved us.

This is what you will experience when you worship with us. You will immediately feel welcomed, not only by our greeters, but also by the Spirit of God that is hovering ever-present in our church and among our congregation. You will be moved by our music, at times traditional, but then, at other times, a bit more eclectic. You will be stirred by the liturgy, and you will be challenged and affirmed by the sermons. If you have young ones in your family, you will find one of the most vibrant children and youth programs in New Jersey. Finally, you will find fellowship and kindred spirits during our after worship coffee hour. All of this is to say, you will feel a sense of belonging . . . you will feel God's unconditional Love.” Learn more: http://www.mrchurch.us/

Miss’d America Organization - “A not-to-be-missed entertainment event, the Miss’d America Pageant started in 1994 at a local Atlantic City club and was created as a spoof of the world-famous Miss America Pageant to raise funds for a local charity.

It took place annually on the night after that famous beauty pageant, the joke being that the drag performers ‘missed’ getting into the real pageant at Boardwalk Hall.  It ended in 2005 and was absent from Atlantic City for nearly five years, before making its triumphant return on January 31, 2010 and has grown larger and more spectacular every year since.” Learn more: https://missdamerica.org/

Mondelez - "Empowering People to Snack Right. Mondelēz International empowers people to snack right in over 150 countries around the world. We're leading the future of snacking with iconic global and local brands such as Oreo, belVita and LU biscuits; Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone chocolate; Sour Patch Kids candy and Trident gum." Learn more: https://www.mondelezinternational.com/United-States

Motion City Media - “Marketing Solutions Motion City Media develops compelling multimedia solutions to help elevate real estate marketing efforts. We approach every project with one clear cut goal in mind: Create persuasive images that cause potential buyers to fall in love before they ever step foot in a home. With an extensive marketing and real estate background, we know exactly what buyers are looking for and how to give it to them.” Learn more: https://motioncitymedia.com/

National Alliance on Mental Illness of NJ - “NAMI New Jersey (NAMI NJ) is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. Through education, support, advocacy and public awareness programs NAMI NJ fosters understanding about mental illness, confronts stigma often associated with mental disorders, advocates for public policies that benefit those affected by mental illness, and promotes research into the causes, treatment and recovery of mental health disorders.” Learn more: https://www.naminj.org/

New Jersey Education Association - “NJEA is the premier labor union in the nation for serious educators and support professionals who want to protect and advance their careers.” Learn more: https://www.njea.org/

New Jersey Natural Gas - “New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) is the principal subsidiary of New Jersey Resources. NJNG serves over half a million customers in New Jersey's Monmouth, Ocean, Morris, Middlesex and Burlington counties, and operates the most environmentally-sound natural gas distribution system in the state as measured by leaks per mile. As a leader in the competitive energy marketplace and a lifeline service provider, NJNG is committed to service excellence and delivering safe, reliable energy our customers depend on to keep their homes and businesses running.” Learn more: https://www.njng.com/

Next Step Chiropractic - “Next Step's goal is to provide solutions to your needs whether you are experiencing back or neck pain, headaches, or looking to improve your health!” Learn more: https://www.nextstepchiropractic.com/

NJ Transit – Ride with Pride - "NJ TRANSIT is unveiling two Ride with Pride themed buses to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ Community and its allies during Pride month. The wrapped buses will be on display throughout New Jersey on the transit system. In collaboration with our sponsor, Hackensack Meridian Health, the Ride with Pride wraps are designed to show support and raise awareness of inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community.

“NJ TRANSIT is committed to diversity and inclusion, and we are especially proud to help keep New Jersey moving with these new specially marked buses. NJ TRANSIT welcomes all members of the LGBTQIA+ Community and its advocates to ‘Ride with Pride’ this June,” said New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti.

“We are celebrating Pride month throughout the agency and across our system, including creating these special Pride-wrapped vehicles.” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett. “I’m pleased we were able to work with our Ride with Pride Company Employee Resource Group, which is made up of LGBTQIA+ employees and allies on this special project to reaffirm our commitment to inclusion to our customers and employees.”" Learn more: https://www.njtransit.com/press-releases/nj-transit-celebrates-pride-month

North Jersey PFLAG - "Welcome to Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays of North Jersey, a group of people who meet regularly in the Montclair area and are dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people, their families and their friends […]

PFLAG was founded in 1981 by 25 parents concerned with society’s attitude toward their gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered children. Today, PFLAG represents more than 65,000 families and friends in the United States and speaks for the thousands of others who cannot." Learn more: http://www.pflagnorthjersey.org/

Novo Nordisk - “For almost 100 years, we have been translating the unmet medical needs of people living with a serious chronic disease into innovative medicines and delivery systems, like our insulin pens. 

Our treatments today are benefiting millions of people living with diabetes, obesity, and rare blood and endocrine diseases. 

From our labs to our factory floors, we are discovering and developing innovative biological medicines and making them accessible to patients throughout the world.” Learn more: https://www.novonordisk.com/

NYM Starbucks Pride Alliance - Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/StarbucksPride/

Out in Jersey - “Out In Jersey magazine covers the interests of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning community of New Jersey.” Learn more: https://outinjersey.net/

Paradise - Nightclub and Bar in Asbury Park, NJ. Learn more: https://www.paradisenj.com/

Parties by Bellas - “Parties by Bellas is more than an in-home adult party business, we are a family of Divas that genuinely care about each other and our customers’ desires and needs. When you become a Diva or a host, you join a family of amazing women and men. Our company began due to the amazing sisterhood that was created by the CEO when she was an independent consultant for an adult company that went out of business. The sisterhood that she created due to that company was something she did not want to lose and thus found a way to recreate and develop it through parties by bellas. We strive to create an atmosphere comfortable for everyone. We at Parties by bellas believe love is love.  We believe no one should be secluded from our parties.” Learn more: http://partiesbybellas.com/

Petsmart - “PetSmart supports LGBTQ+. We believe in unconditional love and proudly promote equality.” Learn more: https://www.petsmart.com/featured-shops/pride-shop/

PFLAG Jersey Shore - “PFLAG Jersey Shore  is a nonprofit organization that aims to provide support for the families and allies of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals, and LGBT individuals themselves; education for ourselves and others about the unique issues and challenges facing people who are LGBT; and advocacy in our communities to change attitudes and create policies and laws that achieve full equality for LGBT people. We are a local chapter of PFLAG National, our parent organization, which envisions a world where diversity is celebrated and all people are respected, valued, and affirmed inclusive of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

We operate locally in Monmouth and Ocean counties of New Jersey. Our chapter hosts two support groups each month and sponsors numerous other events throughout the year. If you or someone you know is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, we invite you to join us!” Learn more: https://pflagjerseyshore.org/

Philadelphia Freedom Band - “The Philadelphia Freedom Band seeks to be a place where anyone - LGBTQ+ and allies - can enjoy playing and performing music in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. We are comprised of a wide variation of talented people, from beginners to college educated professional musicians. We come together to improve as individuals, perform for the public and be visible as folks who support the LGBTQ+ community. We welcome anyone who wants to play in our multiple bands (concert, marching and small ensembles) and understand our mission.” Learn more: https://sites.google.com/philadelphiafreedomband.com/philadelphiafreedomband/home?authuser=0/

Progressive Insurance - “We are committed to making our company and our communities equitable for all. At Progressive, diversity, equity and inclusion are fundamental to our Core Values. We're committed to creating an environment where all people feel safe, welcomed, valued and respected. With so many acts of racism, homophobia, transphobia, and xenophobia in our communities, this commitment is more important than ever. We stand in solidarity with communities of color, the LGBTQ community and other marginalized groups and we encourage our people to discuss these all-too-prevalent issues with our leadership team, with one another, and with our Employee Resource Groups [...]” Learn more: https://www.progressive.com/about/diversity-and-inclusion/

PSEG’S PRIDE Business Energy Resource Group - “PRIDE is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive work environment at PSEG where LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning) employees and allies are recognized, respected, and valued as contributors to a diverse culture within all levels of the organization.” Learn more: https://corporate.pseg.com/careers/diversityandinclusionpage/employeebusinessresourcegroups

PTC LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group - “We know that individuals are at their best when they feel they can be their most authentic selves. Here at PTC, we strive to create an inclusive workplace culture and an environment in which employees feel supported and positioned for success.” Learn more: https://www.ptc.com/en/careers/diversity-equity-and-inclusion

QSPOT LGBT Community Center - "Founded in Asbury Park in 2005, QSpot fosters the health, well-being and pride of NJ’s LGBT and allied community by providing resources, referrals, education, and outreach. QSpot works tirelessly to fulfill its mission while operating a safe and welcoming LGBT community center.

QSpot’s LGBT Community Center is a gathering spot for NJ’s LGBT and allied community, a place where individuals, groups and families can go to be social, have fun, find support and grow. QSpot is the only LGBT community center serving the diverse cities of Asbury Park, Ocean Grove, Red Bank, Long Branch, Toms River and more.

QSpot provides vital services to this under-served community using an all-volunteer, community based model. QSpot’s services include education, advocacy, and support for LGBT youth, LGBT seniors, parents and families of LGBT, mental health counseling, 12-step recovery groups, Buddy Program for LGBT 50 +, support groups, social clubs, book club and more. QSpot is also a meeting place for other LGBT organizations and individuals looking for a welcoming place to hold important professional and personal events.

QSpot is also home to the arts, proudly supporting the QSpot Marching and Concerts Bands, and producing QFEST New Jersey LGBT Film and Digital Media Festival, NJ’s only LGBT film festival, as well as art exhibitions, musical performances and book readings." Learn more: https://qspot.org/

QSpot Marching Band - "QSpot Marching and Concert Band are volunteer community bands led by Musical Director Eva Szakal." Learn more: https://qspot.org/the-arts/qspot-marching-band/

RWJBarnabas Health - “RWJBarnabas Health is committed to meeting the special health care needs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) community with respect and compassion. We provide an array of health, referral and educational services, promote LGBTQ health equity and access to care, and develop effective partnerships with LGBTQ organizations, agencies and allies.” Learn more: https://www.rwjbh.org/why-rwjbarnabas-health-/diversity-equity-and-inclusion/lgbtq-health-services/

Saber Guild Corellia - “Saber Guild's Corellia Temple serves Northern New Jersey and Ocean and Monmouth Counties as a chapter of Saber Guild International, LFL's preferred costuming and lightsaber performance organization.” Learn more: https://saberguild.org/

Seabrook

Sherlock’s Homes Foundation - “We provide housing, employment opportunities, and a loving support system for homeless LGBTQ+ young adults so that they can live fearlessly as their authentic selves.

​Within one of our homes, these young adults learn responsibility, accountability, financial independence, life skills, but most of all; how to love themselves.​Currently we have homes in Boca Raton, FL and Colorado Springs, CO. with other homes opening up around the country soon. 

If you would like to sponsor one of our next homes, we’d love to hear from you.” Learn more: https://sherlockshomes.org/

Slalom - “We help companies tackle their most ambitious projects and build new capabilities.” Learn more: https://www.slalom.com/

Somerset County Democratic LGBTQ+ Caucus - Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/SomersetDemsLGBT

Target - “Highlighting the brands supporting LGBTQIA+ organizations that make a difference every day.” Learn more: https://www.target.com/c/pride-brands/-/N-jnjue

The Asbury - “The Asbury mashes up Asbury Park's Victorian-era history, rock-n-roll present, and shiny future into a new kind of social hub. Come experience our vibrant bars and hangouts like our renowned rooftop lounge Salvation, the outdoor movie theater Baronet and our lively lobby bar Soundbooth. There’s something for everyone at The Asbury, whether it’s hanging by the pool, enjoying live music in the lobby, soaking up a well being class on Baronet or simply relaxing in your room, this is the new Asbury Park.” Learn more: https://www.theasburyhotel.com/

The Party for Socialism and Liberation - “The Party for Socialism and Liberation believes that the only solution to the deepening crisis of capitalism is the socialist transformation of society.” Learn more: https://pslweb.org/

The Pride Center of New Jersey - “The Pride Center was founded in 1994. For two and a half decades, we have served the needs of the LGBTQ community, empowering thousands of individuals to live authentic lives. We have an active membership and volunteer base with robust attendance in a range of programs, support and social groups, and activities that promote fun.

The groups and services offered by The Center have enriched the lives of thousands of LGBTQ individuals over the years who may otherwise have had nowhere else to turn. At The Center, everyone is welcomed with open arms.” Learn more: http://www.pridecenter.org/

Trinity Episcopal Church - “Trinity is committed to Diversity! When we say “All are welcome,” we mean it! Trinity is a “big Umbrella” church: where all lifestyles, sexual orientations, genders, political persuasions, races, ethnicities and faith traditions are valued. There isn’t just one type of Trinity parishioner, there is a whole spectrum of parishioners—and we recognize that we all belong together regardless of any individual differences we may have. This is reflected in our commitment to an open table at the Eucharist where all are invited to share in the sacrament. We all belong at the table together.” Learn more: https://www.trinitynj.com/

Tri-State Warriors Women’s Pro Football Team - “Founded in September 2021, the Tri-State Warriors Women's Football Team, LLC, is the premiere gridiron engagement opportunity for women’s full-contact football in [the tri-state of] New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. A Division 2 member of the Women’s Football Alliance, Tri-State Warriors (TSW) plays to win offering an all-female squad, women 18 and older, the opportunity to learn and play 11-on-11 professional tackle football. No experience necessary. BE BOLD. BE BRAVE. BE BETTER.” Learn more: https://www.tristatewarriors.com/custom_pages/52781/about-us

Unitarian Universalist Church of Monmouth County - “Unitarian Universalism is a caring, open-minded religion that encourages you to seek your own spiritual path. Our faith embraces truth from many religious and spiritual traditions, which nurture the spirit and help us find meaning in life. Unitarian Universalism does not ask anyone to ascribe to a creed but rather to live our beliefs through deeds. Our congregations are places where people gather to put their faith into action by helping to make our communities and the world a better place.” Learn more: https://www.uucmc.org/

Valley Bank - “Valley National Bank is a regional financial institution with approximately $50 billion in assets and more than 200 branches located throughout New Jersey, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, Florida and Alabama. Valley was founded in 1927 on the simple principle of creating better banking opportunities for our customers and helping communities grow and prosper.” Learn more: https://www.valley.com/

Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey/Prevention Resource Network - “The Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey Community Health Center, Inc. (VNACJ CHC) has remained an integral part of Monmouth County for more than 27 years, providing comprehensive primary and preventative care for infants, children, and adults. The team of expert physicians and certified nurse practitioners specializes in primary care for the entire family, as well as prenatal and gynecological care, disease prevention, behavioral health, dental care, chiropractic care, podiatry, lab testing, and more. The VNACJ CHC’s breadth of services encompasses a wide range of high quality, cost-effective, comprehensive health care services.” Learn more: https://vnachc.org/

Walmart

Wawa

Wells Fargo Bank NJ Pride Network

Words with P.R. (Edition 9) - Dealing with Loss

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Monday, May 16, 2022

Seeing yourself how other people see you

INTRO — LOSS

My sister and I have been joking about how in the last 3 years time has become a "mind fuck". Things that happened in 2019 feel like 3 weeks ago and things that happened last year feel like it was years ago. It is mind-blowing how much the world has changed in such a short time.

In my orbit, I have experienced a lot of loss. And because of how I am built, I try to just pick my head up, swim forward, and try not to look back. But I do have to take a second and accept that life has been fucking hard, and I have been doing all I can to get through.

This edition is dedicated to the loved ones I have lost since the pandemic started: my creative writing teacher Ms. Bremmer, my Grandmother, Cousin Sameemah, Natalia, Kenny, and my high school love Deshon. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of all of you and what you meant to my life. Your friends, family, students, and loved ones are forever in my thoughts and prayers.

If you are reading this I urge you to please let people know what they mean to you while you can. You never know when it will be the last time you hear from them.

PICKS — NOSTALGIA & REREADING HARRY POTTER

I am normally a pretty nostalgic person, but I have to admit that the heartbreak of loss led me to want to go back in time when things in my life seemed perfect.

One of those safe spaces for me growing up besides wrestling was always Harry Potter. What made HP special to me growing up was being able to get lost in the wizarding world. Learn lessons about the hard choices in life between love and hate, good and evil, easy and right, and countless others.

So my sister and are in the middle of rereading the series, it would be her first time and my third or fourth. The big thing for me is the message of bravery and pushing through the hardships for the greater good. If you love watching the Harry Potter movies (I mean, come on, when is it not on TV) then I highly recommend reading the book series. JK Rowling can be problematic, but the magic she delivered with the books can be considered life-changing. 

LESSONS — LIVING UP TO HOW PEOPLE SEE YOU

One of the most influential voices in our lives is the ones that are inside our heads. The one that speaks to us and determines how we see ourselves. I think that is why people loved Issa Rae's bathroom mirror raps where she would motivate herself to be the best person that she could be for herself. 

I recently lost my high school love who since the day we met put me on a pedestal. He thought I was the prettiest, smartest, flyest, and the most amazing girl he ever knew. And I loved that at the time when we were both teenagers. We broke up 14 years ago and he never changed his view of me. I hadn't seen him since high school graduation but we kept in touch by a phone call a few times a year. And he still talked about the positive impact I had on his life, and how much he wished he’d had it all this time.

I have to admit, I took him and this light he saw me in for granted. I used to be annoyed that my ex was still trying to get with me or saw me as the 15-year-old girl he fell in love with. But now, that he is gone and I have dealt with so much emotion over the years, I would give anything to hear his voice tell me how perfect I am. Losing Deshon has been understandably heartbreaking but it did come with a lesson for me, to never take people for granted.

At his funeral, I was reunited with high school friends. Sucked that it takes a funeral to bring us back together but it was nice to see them. It was comforting to me when we all went back to the same dynamic of friendship, and we all had the same personalities even all these years later. We all claimed to make sure we kept in touch after the service, and well knew that probably wasn’t true. However, it was nice to come together in Deshon’s memory and it was just like it would have been back in high school. 

TIPS — HOW MUCH IS TOO SEXY?

“Sex sells” I have been hearing that since I was younger, and grew up through sex tape scandals, and the birth of OnlyFans. As a woman, there is this pressure to appeal to the male gaze for success. It is unfair and yet it is also a way that women have been able to feel empowered. I have been glad to see society start to change its views on sex work, strippers, and women being naked because they like being naked. But then there is that thin line of, how much is too sexy?

My tip for social media and brand marketing when it comes to sex appeal is to do what makes you feel comfortable. I personally use the motto that I dont post or engage in content that I would not be proud to show my Dad. But that is me. Obviously, there will be influencers who pose in lingerie for work and must have parents that are okay with it, which is why I say it depends on each individual’s comfort level. 

Your followers appreciate and follow you for the authenticity of your account. If you do not feel comfortable being “sexy” it will not resonate. So when you do take that step just make sure it is something you want to do 

SHOUTOUT — BATTLE CLUB PRO — SWOLE'S PROMO

4/20 this year, I went outside to Brooklyn for Battle Club Pro’s Women Crush Wednesday wrestling show. The all-female card featured some of indie wrestling’s darlings like Trish Adora and Willow Nightengale. The highlight for me however was being able to see Big Swole in another main even title match defending her Battle Club Pro championship. After the hard-hitting match against Trish, Swole cut a promo that nearly brought tears to my eyes. There have been many moments in the last couple of months that made me so incredibly happy to be a wrestling fan, and this was one of them.

Swole is a black woman in wrestling who has always been outspoken, and unapologetic about the experience of being a black female wrestler. Her well-known departure from All Elite Wrestling & falling out with owner Tony Khan allowed showed us just how hard it can be. Swole however has always held her head high and been a voice for those that need it in the industry.

Here is some of her groundbreaking promo:

“I’ll be champ forever

Can’t Nobody can come in here and take what I take

Can’t Nobody can come in here and do what I do

Can’t nobody come in here and wrestle how I wrestle

OKAY 

Except for Trish Fucking Adora

You want to talk about a diamond in the rough?

You want to talk about a woman that’s paid her dues?

You want to talk about a woman that cares for this business?

That was just one

When it comes to winning and defending this

Here as ya’ll champion

I’m going to give the people that have no say

I’m going to give the people that have been loyalty

The ones that whose not trying to turn their back or change

We are icons

We are woman

We are idols to the younger generation, the children who are watching us

We will be the change because that is what battle club is all about

Please give it up to Trish Adora

I’m going to say this

Battle Club is one of the only places that actually believed in me

Joakim is one of the only promoters that flew me out and gave me the time and day 

I owe so much to this man.

I owe my career to this man

If it wasn't for God putting me in his ear, I would not be here 

So I thank Joakim,

I thank (Hard to hear)

I thank my all-mighty father

Ya’ll have a good night”

I am excited to see what Big Swole continues to teach and bring to all women in wrestling.

Words with P.R. (Edition 8) - Wrestling is a Love Story

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Monday, May 9, 2022

"Wrestling is a love story,” - Cody Rhodes

INTRO

I am back from Dallas and feeling better than ever. I had the pleasure of going to Texas for WWE Wrestlemania as a part of my women’s wrestling podcast, Those Wrestling Girls.

If I had one word to describe what wrestling fans call “Mania Week” is passion.

When hoards of fans travel to the host city of the biggest wrestling events in the world, the streets are filled with people dressed in t-shirts adorned with their favorite stars, and championship belts.

It is almost like everyone there is buzzing with excitement. There is love in the air because we are all there for the same reason, the love of pro wrestling.

This was the first time my friend and co-host Krista B. and I were able to travel outside of New York for Mania Week. The entire trip was one of firsts, and I can say it was the best weekend of my life. I got to meet a lot of friends that I have known online for years for the first time. Including other black wrestling podcasters, and tastemakers in the industry. We were able to have fun, network, and make unforgettable memories including working out of the press box, floor seats to see my all-time favorite, WWE Hall of Famer and Texas native Stone Cold Steve Austin (TWICE!), and the bonding that took place at the after after-parties.

I am already planning the next trip to Los Angeles, California for 2023. 

MEET 

KIPP AMP School teacher, musician, & Wrestling Club founder Mr. Perry. Okay, his name is Victor but I was introduced to him by my mother as that so for my sister and me, he will always be Mr. Perry.

He is a great sixth-grade teacher and one that many of us wish we had when we were younger. Like myself, he grew up a wrestling fan and there were times that he did not have other people with whom he was able to talk about it. My mother introduced us, and we have been good friends ever since.

I was honored when he sent me his proposal to start a wrestling club in his school, KIPP AMP Brooklyn. Students can come to his classroom on lunch breaks to watch matches and documentaries. After the club was approved by the school he posted pictures and videos of his students enjoying marquee matches and it soon went viral. Everyone praised the young teacher for bringing wrestling to his students, and how fans of all ages and backgrounds wished they had a teacher like Mr. Perry. 

Not only were other fans inspired by what Mr. Perry was doing, but so were WWE superstars themselves. It was not long before one of the biggest WWE superstars in the world reached out to Mr. Perry asking to visit his club. She is someone who has had a passion for wrestling since watching WWE for the first time at 10 years old. Sasha Banks had to face many obstacles growing up and has been very vocal about how much wrestling has saved her life and given her a purpose. So I can only imagine what it meant to her to see Mr. Perry’s students enjoying a club like that.

“One day while I was in the middle of class teaching, I got a Twitter notification and I briefly looked and saw that it was from WWE. I had to keep calm while in class and after class, I read the message and saw that Sasha really wanted to come to see The Wrestling Club… Never did I actually think that could happen. From that interaction on we made it happen. I have so much love for WWE for working with me and the school to create such a beautiful moment that will live forever in the lives of my students. I've gotten phone calls, text messages, emails, from students telling me how much it meant to them,” says Victor Perry.

The students lost their minds and were so moved by her visit. Banks answered questions from the kids who were eloquent, respectful, and filled with joy. I think the most memorable part for me was seeing how much it meant to the kids but also what it meant to Sasha Banks. She kept thanking Mr. Perry and the entire moment was genuine and emotional.

He went on to share with me, “Meeting Sasha I realized quickly that she was like the sister I never had. She's so easy to talk to. She was so warm and inviting and you could see the joy all over her face. I think this moment not only meant a lot for my kiddos but it also meant a lot to her. She got to dance and sing to her iconic theme song, answer and give some insightful words of wisdom and take the best photos ever with The Wrestling Club. She's inspiring a whole generation, the future. Not many people can say that! I'm really happy we could make this possible. I hope we can continue to have others stop by and hang out with the kids in the club. I want The Wrestling Club to be the coolest club ever."

Relive the entire experience with me exclusively on Those Wrestling Girls Patreon. Thank you, Sasha Banks, WWE, KIPP AMP Brooklyn, and Mr. Perry for making that moment happen for those kids. Glad I was able to experience that. 

SHOUT-OUT

The University of Orange, the free-people university and non-profit organization based in Orange, New Jersey is gearing up for its annual music festival this month.

The 6th annual Music City Festival takes place from May 13-15 at eight different outdoor venues around the city. Over 50 musicians will be performing in partnership with the following restaurants: D’3Fold, Reddz Bistro & Grill, Sarrah’s Cafe Trinbago, Inner City Cafe, Four City Brewery, Benji’s Taqueria, and Hat City Kitchen.

Performers include Alexandra & Real Music, Asad & King Sykes, Big Naut, Jazz Millionaire, Paul Lombardo & Juliana Carr, Voices in Harmony, Orange All-City Chorus, Orange Concert Choir, and Mighty Marching Tornadoes. 

Music has always been a part of the fabric of Orange, New Jersey. The diversity is showcased at this festival every year bringing the city together in harmony. The festival is sponsored by lead sponsors HANDS Inc., M&T Bank, DAAB Kids, co-sponsors Four City Brewery, NAACP of the Oranges & Maplewood, and Missing Link Music. 

You can sign up to volunteer at the University of Orange’s Music City Festival here. 

LESSONS

Great Love is Never Easy

Growing as a person and learning lessons in life along the way is probably one of my favorite things about life. It kind of makes it all makes sense to me. One thing that I have learned and accepted for the better is that nothing worth having in life will come easy. And this could not be more true when it comes to love. I don’t know if there is such thing as true love, but I do believe that we all have great loves out there that will strike you like a thunderbolt when you least expect it. It will feel intoxicating, and it will be all-consuming. However, it will not be easy. It will feel big, destructive, exuberant, dangerous, and inescapable.

As a writer, I like to think that the storm great love brings into your life is worth it because great love stories are the best stories. And whether we like it or not, the best stories make us laugh, cry, angry, sad, and happy. In real life, not so much. But I will always say that experiencing love in life is a blessing and believe that it is better to have love and loss than to never have loved at all.

SOCIAL MEDIA/BRAND MARKETING TIPS

It’s Okay to Rebrand

The tip this week is probably a little hypocritical as I tend to preach about how important branding is. This means your brand’s tone, voice, colors, logos, and even the font. But I learned that social media is always changing and you have to evolve with the ever-changing strategies. I think it is important to find the balance between trying new things to see what works and also keeping up the brand loyalty you have built with your followers and listeners.

These tips are for those who have not gone to college for social media marketing but for those who are creative up-starts and were brave enough to utilize the free tools at our disposal to start their own brands and companies. We are real people, we change our minds, and a lot of creative fields are fluid. Think about fashion, every year the new It color or fit or length changes with the times. And I think the way we approach social media marketing with our brands should be the same thing. 

So if in your soul, or during a meditation you want to change your logo from yellow to pink or want to start featuring different guests on your show to cater to different communities. This is okay because we all change. That is what is exciting about life.

Words with P.R. (Edition 7) - What Made NY Comic Con Special

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Friday, April 29, 2022

I remember when I would attend my sister’s dance recitals and can not help but be overcome with emotion. This is when I learned how moved I was watching people do what they were put on this earth to do. I appreciate seeing people living their purpose, and in a way have always chased that feeling with the plan to make a career out of it.

One thing I love about my generation, and even more so the ones that are coming after me: is that we have made million-dollar careers creating content about our hobbies. I guess that is one of the perks of having the internet and social media at our fingertips. We don’t have to go to school for years to learn how to make and post a YouTube video or rake up millions of TikTok followers. One could say that there really are no barriers that can keep us from at least trying to pursue our biggest dreams.

If you follow me on social media you probably know that I have been dealing with my mental health for the last couple of months, so there was not a lot I was particularly excited about. (Sorry for my absence). However, when I learned of the Beauty of Blackness in Pro Wrestling panel at NY Comic Con this past October, I had to go.

A wrestling brand called Tiger Driver and its mastermind founder Khristen Wilson applied to have a wrestling panel and booth at NYCC this year, “because he wanted to see if he could.” I learned this during an interview with Khris, for a new Men in Wrestling interview series for my podcast, Those Wrestling Girls. I was surprised to learn that he has not done many interviews, and sitting down with me via StreamYard was one of his firsts.

Khris' brand Tiger Driver has a huge influence in the wrestling space, especially among wrestling content creators and popular social media stars in the industry. His goal in starting TD was to become the “Complex of Wrestling”, a mix of music, wrestling, pop culture, and fashion.

And I’d say that he did just that. The Complex brand is a hip hop music, style, and pop-culture-driven brand, that uses the tagline, "Making Culture Pop". TD9X metal-inspired merch can be seen on all your favorite indie stars, and influencers. The TD9X’s Twitter page has 11,000+ followers.

Recently, the power of the black dollar and the lack of representation in wrestling has been a hot topic. The wrestling community, just like the rest of society, has gone through a reckoning. People are taking a closer look at representation or the lack thereof. As well as the treatment of women, and underrepresented communities (more on this in later editions).

Black wrestlers and content creators constantly have to work harder, and often are not seen as valuable as their white counterparts. We have to fight harder to get noticed or be treated as equals. The hashtag #BlackWrestlingDraws went viral among the IWC (Internet Wrestling Community) earlier this year, with fans posting this with the purpose of elevating the promotion and presence of black wrestlers and big matches.

The timing for The Beauty of Blackness in Pro Wrestling panel was perfect. This was the first NY Comic Con event since the pandemic caused the 2020 edition to be canceled. Comic book, fantasy cos-players were able to don their over-the-top looks with like-minded individuals at the Jacob Javits Center again. Wrestling has always been a part of Comic Con, with signings and appearances. However, this was one of the first times that a black wrestling brand had such a presence.

The panel featured indie wrestling star: Faye Jackson, PW Torch writer: Cameron Hawkins, former WWE writer: Kazeem Famuyide, manager: Lovely Laveau, commentator: Jordan Rose, and of course Khris. As well as a surprise appearance by AEW Star MJF.

The audience was filled with fans, and peers in the wrestling media landscape. There was love, support, and hope in the room. There was also a sense of pride that we all felt, being a part of a game-changing moment for black wrestling. There were many introductions made, and business relationships and friendships strengthened.

The panel and TD booth are what made me buy last-minute tickets to my very first NY Comic Con. Not particularly one for cosplay, I never thought there was anything for me at the annual event, as I am not into comics. But I think after the turnout this year, just for the panel, and what Khris and I think was a spike in black attendees, there will be more of a wrestling presence for years to come.

I was able to meet some of my favorites, and well-respected peers, in wrestling media for the first time. As well as support my favorite YouTubers like Alex, aka Queen of the Ring. Also, I got to meet the panelists and Lovely, who has been a friend for over a year, and was able to meet face-to-face.

It was a special moment for all of us, and we were able to go out to eat and drink for the first time in New York City. This has inspired more in-person events that I plan to host with my podcast Those Wrestling Girls.

My interview with Khris, the founder of Tiger Driver 9x is available on Patreon.

Women's History Month 2022 with Gregory Burrus Productions (RECAP)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, March 29, 2022

As you know, Women’s History Month is an annual declared month that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society (source: Wikipedia). Here, Gregory Burrus Productions has big fun discovering, acknowledging and celebrating the accomplishments of local women during Women’s History Month. While we celebrate women all year long, we take a special time to focus on some that we know that are doing significant and amazing work every day. Therefore, we either create events to celebrate those women who are performers and acknowledge others in our area who are just moving through life and making a huge difference in our lives every day.   

Let's get started as we recap our events for Women’s History Month 2022.

• March 2 Kim Clarke, Lucianna Padmore and Yayoi Ikawa

• March 4 WHM2022 Just Us Just Music

• March 4 Sleep Out Montclair Community Edition

• March 13 Equinox – Art and Music Exhibition

• March 23 Dara Starr Tucker

March 2 Kim Clarke, Lucianna Padmore and Yayoi Ikawa

Event Overview 

Jazz973 Presents Kim Clarke Trio at Clements Place Jazz

Very happy that Bassist Kim Clarke Founder of Lady Got Chop Festival is joining us for Women’s History Month as Part of  The Lady Got Chop Festival. In its 20th year this festival presents some of the most notable women professionals playing Jazz in the industry.

Interview with Kim Clarke

We were very happy to have our Gregory Burrus Productions Interviewer, Lynette Sheard talk with Bassist Kim Clarke before our Jazz973 st Clements Place Jazz  honoring Women’s History Month.

Performance Short — Jazz973 Presents Kim Clarke Trio at Clements Place Jazz

For this Jazz973 event Kim Clarke is bringing with her some jazz industry heavyweights – Lucianna Padmore on Drums and Yayoi Ikawa on Keys to perform at Newark Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies – Clements Place Jazz Club.

Full Performance

You can catch the full performance right here on my Youtube Channel.

March 4 WHM2022  Just Us Just Music 

Event Overview 

WHM2022 Womens History Month Celebration at the Cricket Club

Celebrating Ife Basim’s 9th Annual Women’s History Month Celebration, “Just Us. Just Music.” Always, a night you don’t want to miss, and a night you won’t forget. Just Us. Just Music.

Interview with Ife Basim

In its 9th year our Gregory Burrus Productions Interviewer, Lynette Sheard talk with the Founder Joy Topping Mann right before this very successful sold out event.

Performance Short

Over 125 folks showed up to have a great time on Friday March 4th at the Cricket Club,. The musicians featured were Kate Cosco on Keys, Caylen Bryant on Bass, Iyonna Herbert on Drums and Lee Odom on Saxophone.

Our vocalist included Jackie Harmon Johnson, Patricia Walton, Omisanya Karade, Phyllis Blanford, Zakiyyah Zai’meh and the founder Joy Topping Mann. The night was hosted by Norman Mann.

Full Capture of the nights events:

Click Ife Basim WHM2022 at the Cricket Club Entertainment Complex by Gregory Burrus Productions.

March 4 Sleep Out Montclair Community Edition 

Event Overview

2022 Sleep Out: Virtual Discussion Aging Out Foster Care and Homelessness

Every year we lose kids to gangs, jail, human trafficking, substance abuse, and even death. Covenant House, New Jersey mission is to provide comprehensive residential care and related services to help New Jersey’s youth who have suffered from abuse, neglect, abandonment, human trafficking and homelessness. The Junior League of Montclair – Newark, Inc (JLMN) is committed to helping resolve this situation by conducting this years’ 2022 Sleep Out: Montclair Community Edition,

Interview with Heather LeClair

Discussion on Homelessness, Aging Out of Foster Care and Mental Health

The Junior League Montclair – Newark  President Heather LeClair and our interviewer, the  Director of Mental Health in New Jersey, Lynette Sheard  conducted an important conversation to discuss this situation and help us understand the implications of aging out of Foster Care, Homelessness and the impacts upon one’s Mental Health.

Learn More

2022 Sleep Out: Montclair Community Edition Junior League Montclair – Newark  

March 13 Equinox – Art and Music 

Event Overview 

WHM2022 Art Exhibition featuring the Latin Jazzy Sounds of Marilyn Castillo

Equinox, the Exhibit

Through an exciting collaboration between photographer/artist Christine Keeley and collage/mixed media artist Maria Estrela, the idea of Equinox: The Birth and Rebirth of a Woman, a celebration of Women’s International History Month, was born.  The exhibition will be on view at The Jewish Museum of New Jersey in Newark, New Jersey from March 6th to April 3rd.

Interview with Artist Maria Estrela – Christine Feeley

We caught up with Maria Estrella and Christine Keeley to understand the exhibition and more importantly the connection between the artist and their work. Take a listen. 

Performance Short

Exhibition till April 4th.

Click here to read all about the event:
Equinox Art Exhibition Featuring Maria Estrela and Christine Keeley with Live Music by Marilyn Castillo and Nedelka Sotelo (Sunday, March 13, 2022)

Full Performance

Click here to see the  live music performance:
Castillo – Nedelka Sotelo – Antonios Cotez – at Equinox Exhibit by Gregory Burrus Productions

March 23 Dara Starr Tucker   

Overview Event Link

Jazz973 Presents Dara Tucker and her Band at Clements Place Jazz

Dara Starr Tucker is making her mark in the world of music and activism as a singer, satirist and social commentator. Her latest album, Dreams of Waking: Music For A Better World (2021), was featured on Grammy.com and in American Songwriter Magazine. On the album, Tucker embraces the urgent, topical works of songwriters of the protest era, along with her own compositions, as vessels for justice awareness, instruction and healing. Her album reached #7 on the Jazzweek National Radio Charts and reached #6 on the ITUNES jazz chart.

Interview with Dara Starr Tucker

Dara Starr Tucker Interviewed by Lynette Sheard for Gregory Burrus Productions

Today on Interviews by Gregory Burrus Productions, we encountered a truly fabulous, soulful multidimensional singer. As you may know, a live music career is a business that requires the performer to stay relevant in the audience’s mind. The performer in order to be successful must be committed to ensure long-term relevance. Dara Tucker has found many ways to stay in the minds of fans using multiple platforms and, as her bio proclaims, singer/songwriter Dara Tucker is no stranger to producing “composition as commentary.” Take a listen.

Performance Short

Jazz973 Presents Dara Tucker and her Band at Clements Place Jazz

This very special Womens History Month Celebration produced by Jazz973 featured the fabulous Dara Starr Tucker and her awesome band. Dara Starr Tucker – vocals, Mike King – piano, Greg Bryant – bass and Curtis Nowosad- drums.

Full Performance

You can catch the full performance right  here on my Youtube Channel.

Thank you for joining us - Hope you enjoyed our Women's History Month 2022 Recap.

About the Author — Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, producer, promoter, event planner, and community partner. He combines his extensive corporate business and technology expertise with his love of live music and being a strong community advocate.

I love writing about it all. My mission is to help community groups, live music bands, and local nonprofits, reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day-to-day process of life.

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus  
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus 

Interview - Flashing Back and Recapping Ife Basim’s Women's History Month Celebrations (Part 1)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Sunday, February 27, 2022

9 years ago, Ife Basim (Joy Topping-Mann) started a Women's History Month Celebration because she felt that the accomplishments of many local women go unnoticed. Ife feels that bringing attention to these everyday heroes, applauding them for their excellence and recognizing them now helps build the bonds of sisterhood. By staying true to the mission, the annual WHM event has become a vehicle that encourages and helps women unite, share their gifts, talents, accomplishments and the event also motivates the young and old to share their gifts with the world. 

Also in today's environment, we figure why not applaud these local important figures while they can still appreciate it. Recent events like the worldwide pandemic clearly pointed out the need to use time wisely and appreciate each other even more.  We are all still adjusting to our “new normal” world and true to form WHM switched from all in-person in 2019, to all online in 2020 and now in 2021 our new normal is a hybrid approach for 2022. The message and objective has not changed, which is to get the word out that we have all made it this far through the many challenges of the pandemic and we are still here. Ife Basim’s WHM platform is now in it’s 9th year and these events continue to grow our spirit. 

Today, in Part 1, we take a look back over the years and understand the WHM spirit as we prepare for WHM2022.  We talk with the founder and gain a first-hand view of WHM's past and a little bit about its future.  Take a listen.

Gregory Burrus Productions Interviewer, Lynette Sheard, Singer Interviews Founder Ife Basim on the History of Women's History Month Celebrations.

Through the Years of Ife Basim’s Women’s History Month Events

Reflecting upon the 9 years of WHM events, we discuss the highlights of the first 8 years, view the beautiful poster artwork, and who performed, with links to all the fun we had.     

2014

1st Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year 2014 

Date: March 7, 2014

Theme: "Women in Jazz"

Featured vocalists: Jackie Jones and Cynthia Holiday 

Special Tribute: Amira Baraka, Yvette Glover, Denise McCoy, Barbara Kukla, wrote The Encyclopedia of Newark Jazz and Dorthaan Kirk, NEA Jazz Master and Newark's First Lady of Jazz.

Live Music: Girl Talk Jam Session

View more — a taste of 2014: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/20140303-1st-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Celebration/ 

2015

2nd Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2015 

Date: March 13, 2015

Theme: “Weaving the Stories of Women's Lives”

Featured Vocalists: Joy Elaine and Jacque Harmon Johnson 

Special Tributes: Kathy L. Spivey, Inez McClendon, Jaklyn DeVore

And Gwen Moten, ED, Mayor's Office of Arts, Cultural Development and Tourism 

Live Music: Brandon McCune, Vince Ector, Calvin Jones

View more — a taste of 2015: 20150303 2nd Annual Womens History Month - Gregory Burrus Around Town

2016

3rd Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2016 

The Date: March 11, 2016

Theme:  "Her Story"

Featured Vocalists Joy Elaine, Patricia Walton, Joy F Brown, PJ Parker, Phyllis Blandford and and Omisanye Karade 

Special: Vendors and After Party

View more — a taste of 2016: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/2016-3rd-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Her-Story/ 

2017

4th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2017

Date: March 31, 2017

Theme: "Protect Your Peace"

Featured Vocalists: Phyllis Blandford, Lynette Sheard, Patricia Walton, Jackie Gilliam, Dana F. Hawkins 

Special: Vendors  

Live Music:  Brianne Ford, Kim Clarke, Whisper McCray, Sheryl Bailey, Debra Kreisberg

View more — a taste of 2017: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/20170331-4th-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Celebration 

2018

5th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2018

Date: March 30, 2018

Theme:  "I'm Every Woman"

Featured Vocalists Joy Elaine, Patricia Walton, Joy F Brown, PJ Parker, Phyllis Blandford and and Omisanye Karade 

Special Acts:  "I'm Every Woman" program ad booklet, a donation to Sierra House, a safe haven for at-risk youth and young adult women and Sierra House representative Marcia Dash, beautiful balloon stilettos by the Balloon Lady Jacqueline Harmon Johnson, Dwight West and Anthony Avent, James (A-Natural) tribute song, “Diaspora to African American,” Gregory Burrus Around Town for your fabulous photography, support, wisdom, direction, promotions, Ami Brabson of "Phenomenal Women” & Dr. Stephanie D. Burroughs Inspirational Speaker/Trainer/Business & Thought Therapy Coach, artist Cathleen McCoy Bristol, and Nettie Forman. Hosted by Norman Mann.

Live Music: MPACK Music Clarence Conover, Brett Caulder, Joe Scarpetto, PatriciaWalton 

View more — a taste of 2018: 2018 5th-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Celebration - Gregory Burrus Around Town

2019

6th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2019

Date: March 1, 2019

Theme:  "Representation Matters"

Featured Vocalist: Daria Jones

Special Activities:  Hosted by Celeste Bateman, Casual Wear and Islamic designs by Shadiyah Cobbertt-Hutchinson, "Women Who Matter" were acknowledged for their outstanding achievements, dramatic reading of an original play, "Storms Weathered".... written by Ife Basim, supported victims of domestic abuse, "Women Who Batter."

Live Music: Daria Jones Band

View more — a taste of 2019: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/20190301-6th-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Ife-Basim 

2020

7th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2020

Date: March 1, 2020

Theme: "Living Life on Purpose"

Featured Vocalists: Sheba Jordan

Special: The 7th Annual Women's History Month Celebration (WHM2020) was dedicated to the memory of the unforgettable Yvette Glover. Skits on Mental Health Awareness were performed by the 'Mental Health Players' directed by Lynette Sheard. Mental Health Players: Lynette Sheard, Yvette Glover, Joy Elaine, Phyliis Blandford, Patricia Walton, Jacquelyn Harmond Johnson, Zakiyyah Zaimah, Omisanya Karade. 

Live Music: Clarence Conover, Eddie Belton, Norman Mann, Larry Greenberg, sitting in James Gibbs and guitar player.

Also, a special tribute to a woman who exemplifies Living Life on Purpose.

View more — a taste of 2020: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/20200306-7th-Annual-Womens-History-Month 

2021 

8th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2021

Date: March 26, 2021

Theme: “Refresh in Progress" (COVID-19 pandemic, live-streamed)

Featured Vocalists: Joy Topping Man, Zakiyyah Zaimah, Phlyllis  Blanford and Patricia Walton

Special Performers: Comedian Tonya Agosto, Author Phyllis Vivens Hudson, ED readings from her book of recovery “Flying on Broken Wings”

Live Music: Pianist Brandon McCune

You can re-watch the “Refresh in Progress” show on:

Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ifebasimproductions
Web at http://ifebasim.tv

View more — a taste of 2021: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/WHM2021-8th-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Celebration 

Coming soon: 2022 9th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

We hope you come join us Friday, March 4th and have some fun with us.

9th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2022

Date: March 4, 2022

Theme:  “Just Us. Just Music”

Featured Vocalists: Joy Mann, Patricia Walton, Phyllis Blandford and and Omisanye Karade 

Special Venue:  Cricket Club Entertainment Complex

Live Music: Caylen Bryant, Iyonna Herbert, Lee Odom, Kate Cosco

Meet Your Producer: Joy Topping-Mann (aka Ife Basim)

Support Us GoFundme: http://ifebasimmasterpieces.com

Stay tuned right here for Part 2 as we review the March 4th WHM2022. Our coverage will provide details on the performers, the new venue, the Cricket Club Entertainment Complex, which we are very excited about, more quotes from the founder, and everything that happens. Check back right here: https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus

About the Author Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, producer, promoter, event planner, and community partner. Gregory Burrus combines his extensive corporate business and technology expertise with his love of live music and being a strong community advocate. 

I love writing about it all. My mission is to help community groups, live music bands, and local nonprofits, reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day-to-day process of life. 

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus  
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus 

Banding Together to Address Aging Out of Foster Care, Homelessness and Negative Mental Health

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, February 15, 2022

Sleep Out: Montclair 2022 Community Edition

The Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. is creatively reacting to the new normal by joining together with Covenant House New Jersey for the third year in a row. For a second year this discussion on Homelessness, Aging Out of Foster Care and Mental Health issues was produced by Gregory Burrus Productions with the Mental Health Association in New Jersey, Inc.  The Sleep Out Montclair 2022 Community Edition will be held this year on March 4th, 2022.  This ongoing commitment by the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. is sorely needed because Covenant House has been finding homeless youth sleeping under bridges, abandoned buildings, or riding the trains. And as you can imagine in our new normal, the Pandemic has only made the situation worse.

Voices of Youth Count

This need for support and resolution of this issue was emphasized in this nationwide report, the Voices of Youth Count (VoYC) initiative:

“Voices of Youth Count is an innovative, national policy research initiative designed to link evidence and action by capturing the experiences of runaway, unaccompanied homeless and unstably housed youth, more clearly defining the size of the population and scope of the issue, and driving compelling knowledge into the hands of the broad national community dedicated to ending youth homelessness.”

This groundbreaking report on youth homelessness in the United States by Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago was conducted over the course of a full year rather than a single night, making it the most comprehensive research to date on youth homelessness in the U.S. Here’s some of the facts:

• More than 3.5 million young adults ages 18 to 25 experience a form of homelessness in the course of a year — that’s 1 of every 10 young adults.

• At least 700,000 adolescent minors ages 13 to 17 experience a form of homelessness in the course of a year — that’s 1 of every 30 adolescent minors.

• In total, at least 4.2 million young people experience a form of homelessness in a given year, from couch surfing to living on the streets.

• Youth homelessness affects urban and rural youth at similar levels.

You can read more about this situation here: https://voicesofyouthcount.org.

New Jersey Point-in-Time Count of the Homeless Report

Thinking of your own children, friends and neighbors, these are some very scary numbers because they reflect some very real people. Looking at the New Jersey 2020 Point-in-Time Count of the Homeless along with the 2020 Annual Homeless Assessment Report revealed this information: 

• There are 9,663 homeless men, women, and children across the state of New Jersey.

• There were 1,743 persons, in 1,601 households, who were identified as chronically homeless.

• There were 1,786 persons who were unsheltered.

Discussion on Homelessness, Aging Out of Foster Care and Mental Health 

Making it real and bringing it all the way home is the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. (JLMN), The Mental Health Association in New Jersey and Covenant House New Jersey. Together they have come together in this very important talk to bring additional awareness to Youth Homelessness, Aging Out of Foster Care and associated Mental Health Issues right here in New Jersey. Click to listen: 

As you can hear, the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. have shown they are committed again to helping address this situation by participating in this year’s Sleep Out fundraiser. For the 2nd year in a row, the COVID-19 pandemic has required us all to get creative and alter our plans to meet this very necessary fundraising campaign.  

SLEEP OUT — JOIN THE MOVEMENT March 4th 

We hope you listen to the video, understand the need and Sleep Outside for one night so New Jersey youth facing homelessness don’t have to. Please listen to the discussion, understand the need and, if you can, join us. Learn more here and here: https://bit.ly/SleepOutwithHC 

About the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. (JLMN) 

According to the JLMN website:

“The JLMN is a supportive, amazing organization of women whose mission is to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women and improve the community through trained volunteers […] We are actively involved in supporting Foster Care initiatives and Human Trafficking legislation because we understand that our future depends on the flourishing of our communities’ children. “

JLMN is creating better communities for a better future.

“The JLMN strives to promote the safety and well-being of the children in the Montclair-Newark area.”

Learn more about the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. and their current programs here: www.jlmn.org. 

About Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) 

According to the Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) website:

“Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) provides sanctuary and support for youth ages 18-21 facing homelessness or human trafficking. We have seven locations across the state: Atlantic City, Newark, Jersey City, Camden, and Asbury Park, and specialized care in Montclair and Elizabeth. Across New Jersey, we are the New Jersey Human Traffic Provider of services to all Human Trafficking survivors and victims.  At CHNJ’s Montclair-based program, Nancy’s House, young people with special mental health needs who are facing homelessness can get the attention they require.  We serve about 4,585 youth annually, and all our services are free.”

For more information about the Sleep Out, visit https://bit.ly/SleepOutwithHC.

About the Writer Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a Passionate Community Advocate, Reporter, and Writer about local events In and Around Northern NJ, showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and happenings as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest. 

My mission is to help community groups, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying life every day.

Celebrate Black History Month at SOPAC with Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, February 2, 2022

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, the event grew out of “Negro History Week,” the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history. You can read more about The Man Behind Black History Month. 

Black History Month 2022 Health and Wellness

For Black History Month 2022, the theme is Black Health and Wellness, and in a recent recap article “2021 Live Music Year In Review” I opined about the health and mental benefits of the art of live music:

“For listeners, a live music concert is a pleasurable social event that is among the most visceral and memorable forms of musical engagement. It's the same for musicians, with the added note that for many it’s not a side business, it’s their lifeblood and the thing that keeps them alive. With that in mind, we all pushed on through the year making music and great memories.” 

After seeing the absence of music and art during this COVID pandemic and the slow recovery we are all going through, there is no doubt that Art and Music have a major effect on helping us feel better, recover, survive, and even thrive during the current state of the world. 

Photo Credit: Clements Place Jazz by Patrick Hilaire Photography

Exposure to art and music along with participation in creative activities creates positive brain changes. That's according to a new report from the Global Council on Brain Health (GCBH), an AARP-founded working group of scientists, health care professionals and other experts. Their latest report, “Music on Our Minds,” highlights research showing music's positive effect on emotional well-being, including improving mood, decreasing anxiety, and managing stress. There is creativity in making the music and there’s creativity spawned from listening to music. In an upcoming event, we will encounter exceptional creativity from a preeminent photographer who listens to the sounds and is inspired by the light. 

Photographer Patrick Hilaire 

"I am excited about the upcoming Light and Sound Exhibition at the beautiful SOPAC Gallery. This show gives me a chance to share and explore the deeper elements of my passion when it comes to understanding the intersection of sound and light in any live music performance. There's beauty in the moment and capturing it ‘just right’ amongst all else that is going on during a live performance is a challenge that I enjoy."  — Patrick Hilaire

Around the Jersey NYC area there are many live music performances and, of course, numerous photographers. One notable local photographer that stands out from the pack is the professional photographer known as @l1stener or Patrick Hilaire. Over time, Patrick has compiled a remarkable collection of photographs of live music performances, the musicians, and the environments associated with the Greater New Jersey and New York live music scene. One of the things we notice is that whether he’s at a live music performance, a wedding, or he’s strolling down the street, he’s keenly aware of the details beyond what we normally see. While we see the daily activities of life moving around us, Patrick sees the details in one leaf amongst the leaves blowing in the wind, the formation of the icicles occurring on the side mirror of a car and, yes, while we listen to the music he sees the lights emanating from the sound.

Patrick is also known for capturing not just the music and the musicians, and if you stare in one direction too long, you may find yourself captured by Patrick. And the funny part is folks who say “No, not me,” end up loving his images of them. Since we get to hang out and be around him at times, we get to see firsthand his working process and how it unfolds. Sometimes he shows up, grabs a beverage, turns his hat around backwards, pulls out his camera, and starts shooting and the results are like this gorgeous one of our buddy Boz, RIP, 2020.

Jazz Advocate Lee “Boz” May by Patrick Patrick Hilaire Photography

At other times, he shows up, eyes the environment, sets up all his equipment, pulls out his camera or cameras, adjusts the settings, turns his hat around and starts the shooting session. What we don’t see is that he believes, in preparation before the event, spending time getting to know his subjects and his environment. He thinks about posing and positioning of his subjects and then deliberately chooses camera settings that ensure the final result will look fantastic. Sometimes the preparation is all done in the blink of an eye, yet it’s all very professionally done.  

From the archives Patrick Hilaire Photography. 

The results speak for themselves as Patrick sees the light and more, in addition to the sound that comes from the musicians. If you've been in the presence of Patrick at any of our events, you can tell he sees more than we do, so we are very happy to see an exhibition of his work being put on display at the beautiful South Orange Performing Arts Center. 

LIGHT [+SOUND] Exhibition

The South Orange Performing Arts Center describes this wonderful event about the photography of Patrick Hilaire as follows: 

“His life’s work has focused on capturing the relationship between images and sound. Known as the man behind the camera at many Jazz happenings, Hilaire has been a staple in the local music scene for years. Hilaire has photographed performers from SOPAC’s Jazz & Blues in the Loft series as well as the Dizzy Gillespie All Star Band at the Blue Note in New York City. Hilaire has exhibited at several galleries, was featured at the South by South Orange Festival, and shot performances at the John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival as well as the South Mountain International Blues Festival.”

The Haitian-born self-taught photographer’s ability to capture compelling musical moments by great artists has brought him widespread acclaim. “Musical events are the intersection where the rhythm of the performer and photographer get to meet,” he says. A Jazz lover since childhood, Hilarie was first moved by the genre when his older brother Max Hilaire, also a noted photographer, brought home Herbie Mann's “The Glory of Love.”

Add to the above, Patrick has captured and documented numerous Jazz events at clubs and jazz venues all over Northern NJ and New York City, from Morristown’s Shanghai Jazz to Jersey City’s Brightside Tavern and Moore's Lounge. In between, you will see his beautiful captures from West Orange’s South Valley BBQ and Bar, South Orange Summer Saturdays Stages, Jazz On Sloan at the South Orange Gazebo, Papillon 25, The Fox and Falcon, Montclair’s DLV Lounge, Newark's Clements Place Jazz 973, NJPAC and, of course, SOPAC’s most prestigious Giants of Jazz Program. In New York, he’s covered just about every jazz venue, from North Harlem’s SMOKEs to the Village Vanguard, Blue Note, Small's, and Birdland in Southern Manhattan, along with venues in Brooklyn. 

South Orange Performing Arts Center and The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery 

According to the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) website:

“SOPAC is an accessible cultural destination located in the heart of downtown South Orange that presents world-class artists in an intimate and welcoming environment […] Through visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment, SOPAC has become a cultural centerpiece for the region, an economic driver for the community and a catalyst for artistic opportunity.

The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC showcases a wide range of artists bringing contemporary art to a broader audience […] With the support of the Gallery’s Art Advisory Committee, art exhibitions are selected according to the vision of the Curator, Jeremy Moss. Exhibition themes, artist selection, even placement of artwork is meant to lead visitors through the Gallery exhibition while telling a story, instigating questions and provoking conversations […]

The Gallery is located on the second and third floors of SOPAC. It hosts 4-5 art exhibits a year.”

Admission to the Gallery is free. Visit www.SOPACnow.org/gallery.

Light [+Sound]  Exhibition Details

Celebrate Black History Month with the photography of local notable, Patrick Hilaire. 

On Display: Showcasing Patrick Hilaire’s stunning black-and-white portraits of Jazz musicians.

Where: The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC 

When:  February 1 – 28, 2022 

Hours:  Monday-Saturday, Noon – 6 PM.

Admission: Free

Reception: Thursday, February 17, 5 – 8 PM, plus live jazz music.

The art will be available for purchase, as these will be museum-quality archival pigment prints on Bright White Velvet 100% rag paper.

Learn more: https://www.sopacnow.org/events/light-sound-reception/

About the Curator Jeremy Moss 

Curator Jeremy Moss. Photo by Kevin Coughlin.

Having studied photography and graphic art in the U.K., Jeremy Moss’s journey to the artist of today has been a combination of fine art shows and editorial assignments. His photographic, fine art limited editions have been shown throughout the greater New York metropolitan region in solo shows, juried fine art shows, and group shows. His work is held in both private and corporate collections, domestic and international. Jeremy is also a painter and mosaic artist. His paintings are mostly abstract textural pieces that have a definite relationship with his fine art photography. 

In 2016, the South Orange Performing Arts Center appointed Jeremy as the curator for the Herb & Milly Iris Gallery. He is an experienced and visionary arts non-profit leader with over 19 years in arts and arts management, skilled at building exceptional teams focused on collaboration and results. He was brought on board to oversee the strategic direction of the gallery, as well as bring new exhibits to the South Orange landmark that reflect the mission of the Herb & Milly Iris Gallery — to encourage emerging artists and to bring contemporary art to a broader audience.

Jeremy is a native of Leicester, England and currently resides in Orange, New Jersey.

About the Author Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music producer, promoter who captures, and records live music performances, community events and private engagements. Gregory also loves to write and blog about the art and entertainment scene across New Jersey and New York, 

My mission is to help artists, live music bands, community groups, and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their mission while thoroughly enjoying the day-to-day process of life.  

Learn more at: 

http://gregoryburrusproductions.com
http://24hoursofmusicjamboree.com
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus   

Junior League Montclair-Newark, Inc. 2021 Annual Holiday Market Supporting Black-Owned Businesses

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Saturday, December 11, 2021

Every year, especially around the holidays, when people tend to reflect on life a lot, the JLMN membership gets creative in figuring out ways to help others, help themselves.

The Junior League of Montclair-Newark (JLMN), Inc. is a volunteer organization of women committed to Promoting Volunteerism, Developing the potential of women, and Improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

From addressing social issues, providing scholarships, to holiday redecorating to helping Covenant House with a Sleep Out benefit, they find a way to get it done and make a difference using the creative skillset of their membership. With us all experiencing loss of business due to the devastating effects of the pandemic and the fact that the year end holiday season is now upon us, these helpful initiatives can really make a big difference.

This year's JLMN Virtual Holiday Market is about bringing positive energy to elegant jewelry, developing and improving literacy skills of young readers, believing that everyone deserves to own real estate, and developing products that caress your hair and skin. We have businesses created because the owners were frustrated by the dearth of quality products, some owners are developing clean anti-aging skin and hair care products, and others want to uplift us via messages of peace, love & good vibes while others are building dreams and self-esteem of young girls via the arts.

When you explore the JLMN Virtual Holiday Market, you will encounter business owners that truly believe in their mission and their companies. We encourage you to contact and support them.

SteelMcLean

SteelMcLean - We worked closely with a hand-selected scientific team from inception to production for over two years before introducing our first product to the world. We were determined to get it right because we care about you and the value that we bring to your life.

Based on our salon clients' feedback, we had a very clear vision of the products that were needed. We understood what was missing in the marketplace both in terms of quality and effectiveness. We researched every ingredient. We studied how our skin and hair responded. The end result was Steel Mclean Products - products uniquely formulated to clean, correct and caress your hair and skin. Our products contain unique and very sophisticated ingredients that are naturally derived and incredibly effective. Our products are proven. 

BUY HERE: www.steelmcleanbarbers.com | https://steelmclean.com

Styled Blu

Styled Blu is a lifestyle home décor accent line of eclectic pillows, textiles and high-quality African fabrics handpicked and sourced from the markets of Ghana.  All pillows and textiles are handcrafted. Styled Blu's has married pillows and textiles with custom designed tealights; candle holders; vintage glassware; custom lit banners for mantels, mirrors & gallery walls.

Styled Blu's decor furnishes messages of peace, love & good vibes. Bring comfort & style home. Goods are handcrafted by Styled Blu with global artisans.

In 2018, Styled Blu launched it’s a lifestyle home décor accents line and is now currently being sold in pop shop locations in Montclair, NJ. 

BUY HERE: https://styledblulife.com

Organic Cosmetica   

Organic Cosmetica was founded by a regenerative medicine physician from New York, who has devoted much of her career to alternative orthopedic and anti-aging cosmetic treatments. Keenly aware of the painful and expensive nature of some cosmetic procedures and aware of the potential dangers of certain drugs and synthetic ingredients, she searched for alternative options for her patients and clientele and for herself. Frustrated by the dearth of quality, clean anti-aging skin and hair care products in an unregulated industry saturated with brands that lacked regard for sustainability, she founded Organic Cosmetica.

We create high quality, 100% natural, anti-aging skin and hair care products for men and women including those with allergies and sensitivities. Everything we make is gluten-nut-soy-free, certified vegan, certified animal test-free, made in the USA and contains at least 60% certified organic ingredients.

BUY HERE: https://www.organic-cosmetica.com 

Cathleen McCoy Bristol

Cathleen McCoy Bristol is a former instructor at the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Art, the Junior Museum of the Newark Museum, Arts Unbound and Senior Studio. Cathy has freelanced as a fashion illustrator but her passion is as a painter, focusing mostly on portraits and figure work but also paints landscapes, still life's and animals.  Cathy, a frequent exhibitor, often works on a commissioned basis and has numerous works in private collections.

Cathy co-curated the SOMA (South Orange Maplewood ) Artists Studio Tour at the Maplewood Memorial Library and Ugo Giannini's Exhibit at the Pierro Gallery, South Orange and was the curator of the 2014 SOMA Studio Tour Exhibit at the Maplewood Memorial Library.

Recently, she used her creativity and curated a well received exhibition where the Artists Creatively Used Art and Stories to Shine a Light On Domestic Violence. Contact Cathy and have commission a project or beautiful art piece for you. 

CONTACT: https://cathymccoybristol.webstarts.com

Kemboocha™

Kemboocha™ was born out of my love of fermented foods and optimal health. We carefully utilize ingredients that are potent, powerful and will provide you with the freshest tasting kombucha. In addition to  Kemboocha™  we also provide a fermented tonic called fire cider.

BUY HERE: https://kemboocha.store/ 

I Love Beautiful Spaces

I Love Beautiful Spaces is a boutique family-focused home relocation and renovation firm working across the US, believing that everyone deserves to own the real estate that they love. I Love Beautiful Spaces takes their clients’ needs, interest and lifestyle - combined with a network of professionals - and elevates their experience in achieving the lifestyle they desire through owning real estate.  A firm believer in “creating active & passive income through real estate, I Love Beautiful Spaces is obsessed with risk-taking, grit and passion. Contact I Love Beautiful Spaces to meet your goal of owning a beautiful space regardless of your current location. 

CONTACT: http://ilovebeautifulspaces.com/ 

Linoto

Linoto makes amazing real linen sheets that help you sleep better, linen napkins and tablecloths that enhance your dining and entertaining events, linen curtains that beautify your home, and linen spa towels that rejuvenate and refresh your bath and shower experience. Most importantly, we make beautiful, soft, artisanal quality products that feel special to us and to the people who enjoy them.

Linoto has fulfilled more than 10,000 orders to loyal Customers around the world and enjoys a fabulous reputation for quality, value, and style.

BUY HERE: www.linoto.com

Gracefully Yours

Gracefully Yours - Deserving Opportunities for Lovely Ladies -  The mission of the D.O.L.L House is to embrace, nurture, build dreams, self-esteem, and cultivate young girls ages 10 and up through the arts to become balanced young women. We believe that this will prepare them for lives of service and leadership rooted in values of faith, hope, and love.

BUY HERE: https://www.dariajonesworld.com/gracefullyyours 

RITTA BOOK

The RITTA BOOK organization was established to help develop and improve literacy skills of young readers grades, kindergarten through 5th grade. RITA BOOK offers innovative products, services and programs geared to enrich, empower, excite and inspire Children, their Parents and Educators to foster literacy and learning as a critical life skill. A life skill that's vital to offsetting the contrary effects of poor literacy skills among young scholars. 

CONTACT: www.rittabook.com

Nitjuan Designs

Nitjuan Designs

Bringing positive energy and elegant jewelry together!.

Handcrafted Wearable Art for You and Your Home infused with loving Reiki energy.

I create wearable art for you and your home which includes everything from jewels to chandeliers. I specialize in custom orders and I work with gemstones, crystals, glass, metal and many other materials.  

BUY HERE: https://nitjuandesigns.com/category/shop/crystals/  

JAM Network TV

At JAM Network TV, we endeavor to produce educational, inspiring and empowering content, to share the rich history of talented black actors and actresses who have paved the way for many of the shining stars we see today. We are committed to providing a platform to showcase the work of emerging talented minority content creators. In addition to the latest content, JAM Network TV will make content available from the early years of Black cinema.

This network is committed to teaching the authentic history of Black people, and the strong legacy upon which we stand.

WATCH: https://www.jamnetworktv.com/ 

From real estate to TV to haircare, we got it all, so please join us and let's support the Black-Owned Businesses of the Junior League of Montclair Newark's 2021 Virtual Holiday Market.  

About Junior League of Montclair Newark

The JLMN is a nonprofit organization of trained volunteers. Through hands-on projects and partnerships, our members build a better community by promoting education, health and wellness, literacy and the arts for children at risk each year.

Whether chairing a JLMN project or serving on a community board, JLMN members learn the skills to affect real change and improve our communities.

CONTACT: https://www.jlmn.org

About the Author

Gregory Burrus is a Passionate Community Advocate, Live Music Producer, Reporter, and Writer about local events and happenings In and  Around Essex County, NJ. Showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and creative people as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest.

My mission is to help people, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day to day process of life. Are you ready for your interview? Let’s connect!

CONTACT: http://gregoryburrusproductions.com

CC Minton Interviews a Beautiful Person, Comedian, and Actor Kevin Hart on Financial Success

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, December 7, 2021

When it comes to creativity, some folks get creative, like driving fast within a lane. Others get creative driving fast down a 6-lane highway on the Autobahn, and they keep it moving fast, too. CC Minton is one of those people who runs hard and fast as the Founder of CC Minton’s I Love Beautiful Spaces. She is an award-winning lifestyle advocate, social impact-executive turned real estate pro and, oh yeah, she is also a book author. This former housewife that I profiled before, has secured a portfolio of homes, investment properties and recently purchased land in the hot Southwest Dallas market. As a celebrity interviewer, she has conducted interviews all over the New York, New Jersey Metropolitan area, sometimes on site and at other times from the comfort of her beautiful self-renovated 1889 historic Newark office studio. In general, she stays true to her mission of spending her time in beautiful spaces, beautiful places and with beautiful people. See CC Minton: Loving Beautiful Spaces And Making A Difference While Creatively Living Life.

Chase Bank, 55 West 125th Street, on November 4, 2021

This time, she happily traveled into Harlem, New York to a beautiful place to conduct an interview at a building that was chosen by former U.S. President William J. Clinton to house his personal offices after leaving the White House, in February 2001. Nowadays, the building houses various high-profile office and retail tenants, including The Clinton Foundation, and one of those high profile tenants is JP Morgan Chase Bank. CC Minton seems to be connected to the White House in more ways than some.

Watch True Story | Netflix Official Site

Her interview, as she found out, was with a well known, very creative, also fast moving multifaceted and beautiful person, Kevin Hart. Kevin Hart has won numerous awards like the People's Choice Award for Favorite Comedic Movie Actor, 2016, the Hollywood Award for Artist of the year in 2014, the 2012 BET Award for best actor (IMDB) amongst many other awards. And here, I am watching Kevin Hart in his latest Netflix series “True Story,” a seven-episode thriller starring Hart as a celebrity who is racing to cover up a death he may or may not be responsible for because of his brother Wesley Snipes. 

Needless to say, Kevin is widely known as a Comedian and Actor, but he is also an Entrepreneur and Investor. The Financial Health and Leadership Forum: Hart of It All chat event is a part of the JP Morgan Chase Advancing Black Pathways initiative. Kevin was there to share his financial tips and information surrounding his key message: Financial Knowledge.

Being selected by Harlem World Magazine, which has over 2.5 million influential fans around the world, to interview such a huge Hollywood personality is obviously a huge honor. We caught up with CC Minton and asked her how she felt about interviewing such a big celebrity. 

1. Who contacted you to conduct the Kevin Hart interview? 

Danny Tisdale, the Founder of Harlem World Magazine, contacted me regarding the Kevin Hart interview.  I worked with Harlem World Magazine for a number of years.  I had the position as an event ambassador, lifestyle editor and curated the Healthy Lifestyle initiative. We have a great relationship, so from time to time I handle special events and high-profile projects for them.

2.  Did you do any type of preparation for the interview?   

Absolutely! I did extensive research on Kevin Hart and the JP Morgan Chase Advancing Black Pathways initiative.  I used articles and other conversations to get a feel for Kevin's financial experiences and his desire to give back.  With a better understanding of Kevin and JP Morgan Chase, I was extremely excited about the interview and the event. Through the partnership and on their own, both are doing great things in the community.  As a servant leader, I currently serve on the Board of Governance with the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. and I am a trustee with Friends of Thomas Edison National Historical Park and the residence of Glenmont.  I totally identify with supporting the community.    

3. What did you like or find interesting about meeting a celebrity like Kevin Hart? 

I've met and interviewed a number of celebrities and public figures.  I knew it would be a little different because I've never had a conversation with a comedian so I wasn't sure what to expect.  I thought to myself, God, what if he starts making jokes about me....ha ha ha, I'm just kidding.  I felt comfortable being a little silly during the event and, of course, he was really funny.  

I enjoyed meeting Kevin because he was authentic, down to earth, had a plan for himself that increased his net worth tremendously, and he didn't mind sharing. Of course, he was funny but his jokes were on a totally different level. In my prior interviews with Judge Mathis, Olympian Kristi Castlin, Chef Carla Hall, and Melvin Van Peebles, they were funny, too, but not like Kevin.  Kevin's journey from his hometown of Philly to becoming the highest-paid comedian to entrepreneur to an investor is even more impressive to me.     

4. Kevin Hart is one of the highest-paid comedians in the world. Aside from his celebrity, is there any commonality between his investor story and why you founded I Love Beautiful Spaces?

Yes, absolutely!  I believe that by investing in real estate, you know where your money is.  As Kevin says, "It's in the ground."  The last time I checked, land is no longer being created so therefore land and what is built on it is like a commodity.  He is spreading the message about building wealth with real estate on a larger scale.  For me, I love spreading the same message to everyday people like me and you.  I believe that everyone deserves to own real estate and that lifestyle begins at home. 

5. What's your takeaway from Kevin's talk about finances?

Kevin shared his recipe for success and I believe it is a simple model to follow.  Make sure you pay your taxes first.  Invest and live on the rest.  I believe his strategy not only works for celebrities, entertainers, or high-income earners.  We live in a gig economy, so his words of wisdom can be applied to many other, too, including those with a side hustle.    

6. Why do you believe that everyone deserves to own the real estate that they love?

Although I was a stay at home mom for many years, I have always been a free spirit and risk-taker.  Due to a lifestyle change in status, I stepped out, downsized, and began creating a portfolio of my own.  If I can do it, I believe that those who have the desire to do it can own the real estate that they love as well.  It takes commitment and desire and taking some risks.  I love sharing my experiences and knowledge with men and women and, to be transparent, I love empowering others to do the same. 

7. Do you have any future interviews planned? 

I do, but I'm unable to discuss the details at this time.  I'll be traveling for the next one, so stay tuned.

In reading the interview, I found this advice from Kevin Hart poignant for entrepreneurs and, of course, all artists about building their business and their brand:

“When you’re investing in something (like your art or your live music business), the goal is to bring value, to raise awareness within a brand, and get the brand to a point where it is not only profitable but on the bigger stages around the globe.” 

Read the full CC Minton Interview here on Harlem World Magazine and don’t forget to leave a comment.  

About CC Minton

CC Minton is the Founder of I Love Beautiful Spaces. She is an award-winning lifestyle advocate, celebrity interviewer, social impact exec turned real estate pro. She began her journey in the kitchen of her home and created a path that led her to one of the most beautiful homes – The White House.  It’s where she covered Former First Lady Michelle Obama’s White House Kids’ State Dinner. CC is a member of the Board of Trustees at Friends of Thomas Edison National Historical Park and residence Glenmont and the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. Board of Governance.

About the Organizations Mentioned in This Interview

Advancing Black Pathways

JP Morgan Chase Advancing Black Pathways initiative provides a mentoring program for undergraduate students.  Selected students have been paired with mentors that are 3-5 years out of college and are currently working in the fields of finance, business development, marketing, public relations, and human resources.  Many of the mentors and mentees identify as BIPOC and first-generation.

Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. 

The Junior League of Montclair-Newark (JLMN), Inc. is a volunteer organization of women committed to Promoting Volunteerism, Developing the potential of women, and Improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.  “Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. The Junior League welcomes all women who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations and communities.”

Friends of Thomas Edison National Historical Park 

The Friends of Edison National Historical Park and the residence of Glenmont are a passionate group of creative, historically-minded and innovative folks dedicated to keeping generations loving the legacy of Thomas Edison. “Together, we help raise funds to preserve artifacts in his West Orange National Park and share his ideas.”

About the Writer, Gregory Burrus 

Gregory Burrus is a Passionate Community Advocate, Live Music Producer, Reporter, and Writer about local events and happenings In and  Around Essex County, NJ. Showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and creative people as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest.

My mission is to help people, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day to day process of life. Are you ready for your interview? Let’s connect! http://gregoryburrusproductions.com

Artists Creatively Using Art and Stories to Shine a Light On Domestic Violence (RECAP)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Trinity Presbyterian Church of Montclair recently presented a virtual art exhibit called “Behind Closed Doors Part 2: Reflections of Domestic Violence.” This project was curated by Deacon Cathleen McCoy Bristol and a huge thanks goes out to her for bringing everyone together. Raising awareness on domestic violence is always a touchy subject even amongst friends and family, so shining a light on a subject that occurs behind closed doors is very much needed in today’s society. 

By shining a light on the subject of domestic violence, the goal is to help those in these situations, and others, recognize the signs of abuse, how to respond respectfully, and identify a few resources to use. An individual's safety should be everyone’s number one priority and this project is about moving folks to action and then moving the survivors on a path from crisis to safety, to stability and then into self-sufficiency.  

What I loved about this “Behind Closed Doors” exhibit on Domestic Violence is that these artists expressed great creativity in the various ways they use their art as tools to mentally and physically help those who may currently be under the oppression of an abuser. 

The exhibiting artists include: Trinity Member Simone Bailey Campbell, Anne Dushanko Dobek, Nette Forne Thomas, Mansa K. Mussa, and Ron EA Powell.  Finally, an insightful Clinical presentation was also given by Kathlyn Battle, MSW, LCSW.

Everyone deserves healthy relationships and each artist displayed their art and related their story and described their art and how it related to the various stages of Domestic Violence. We opened with the project supporters and sponsors committed to helping solve the problems of domestic violence. 

Rev. Dr. Anita Wright, Pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church provided the Welcome Message.

Pastor Wright can be reached at Trinity Presbyterian Church or at pastor-trinitymtc@Comcast.net.   

Family Support Organization of Essex County provided the Greeting. Their mission is to provide peer support, education and advocacy for parents at all stages so that children and families can thrive. www.fsoec.org.

The artists came together one morning under the direction of the event curator Cathleen McCoy Bristol, an artist herself, and volunteered their time for this very important subject. 

Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Curator, introduces Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors artists

The Artists, Their Art, Their Story

As you will see when they relate the story of their art, you will also see that they are very committed to helping those in need. 

Simone Bailey Campbell, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors 

sim@screamingblustudio.com, www.simonebaileycampbell.com

Anne Dushanko Dobek, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors 

adobek@aol.com, www.dushankodobek.com

Nette Forne, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

arthomasn@verizon.net, www.nettefornethomas.com

Mansa K. Mussa, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

photomansa@gmail.com, 973-669-4729, www.mansamussa.com

Ron E.A. Powell, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

https://www.instagram.com/reap13art/

Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors 

cathy.mccoy.bristol@gmail.com, https://cathymccoybristol.webstarts.com/

Kathlyn Battle, MSW, LCSW

Katbattle@comcast.net

View and share with all  

Since  you never know what goes on Behind Closed Doors, please share this all inclusive, important and powerful artist exhibition. This video contains all the stories of “Behind Closed Doors: Domestic Violence Project Part 2”:

A Big Thank you to Curator Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Trinity Presbyterian Church Montclair, Deacon Deidra McLaughlin and the Sponsor, The Family Support Organization of Essex County, NJ.  

Please recognize the symbol for help. 

This is a very serious subject and I am very sad this occurs, however I was glad that Gregory Burrus Productions Videography was instrumental in helping get the word out through Art and Story. Remember to help those who need your help.

About the Writer, Gregory Burrus 

Gregory Burrus is a Passionate Community Advocate, Live Music Producer, Reporter, and Writer about local events and happenings In and Around Essex County, NJ. Showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and happenings as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest.

My mission is to help people, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day to day process of life. Learn more at http://gregoryburrusproductions.com 

Celebrating Black Lives Matter via Art and Live Music at BLM Artist Reception (RECAP)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Thursday, November 11, 2021

Unfortunately, in today’s world we have to tell people that life matters. Hence, the Black Lives Matter  Movement which is a decentralized political and social movement protesting against incidents of police brutality and all racially motivated violence against black people.

Being a Mahatma Gandhi fan, I share his quote, “The future depends on what we do in the present.” In recapping the Juneteenth celebration during the Artist Reception of “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”, it was wonderful to see and hear this very creative West Orange Art Council (WOAC) exhibition. To me, this exhibition was a celebration of life via two life-changing mediums — art and live music.

“Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”

The Curators

Designed to address the issues of today, the artists were encouraged to express their feelings about this subject in their art. As part of West Orange, NJ’s celebration and commemoration of Juneteenth, artists Maria Luis Estrela and Carol T. Jenkins of the West Orange Arts Council (WOAC) curated this exhibition. It was clear from meeting early on with Maria that she had a personal connection to this exhibition.

“I purposely utilize my skills to help Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) artists, who are underrepresented in the arts scene,” Maria Estrela said. “I feel it’s important to raise awareness of the issues faced in their own communities including racism, discrimination, inequality and injustice.” (See For These Artists, BLM Exhibit In West Orange Has Special Meaning.)

Maria’s passion was also reflected in the article How Maria Estrela’s Passion for Arts and Travel Shapes RBNY Homegrown Player, Bento Estrela, where Maria clearly feels a close connection to singer/songwriter Nina Simone. “Nina Simone, she was an activist and through her music, she raised awareness about what was happening in America against Black people. So she was a very powerful woman, she used her music to say what was happening in America,” said Estrela. “So that inspired me to create first because she was a great musician and artist, and second because she was an activist, and she was fighting for equality and justice.”  

The Artists

The exhibit debuted in person on June 5th and was open for in-person visits at the West Orange Arts Center (551 Valley Road) through July 31. As stated on the WOAC’s website:

“Over 40 artists, photographers and poets are participating in this art for social change. The participating artists are: Sarah Bass Aspe, Josephine Barreiro, Yuri Bisono, Carol Black-Lemon, Wendy Born, Syreeta Brooks, Marina Carreira, Patricia Croft, Antoinette Ellis-Williams, Maria Estrela, Mary Fordham, Karen Goldberg, Dino Gravato, Patricia Hutchinson, Queen Mother Imakhu, Carol T. Jenkins, Lizette Louis, Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Barbara Motley, Frank Niccoletti, Amelia Panico, Davynte “Red” Pannell, Sundra Parker, John Piccoli, Dayana Poulard, Ron Powell, Martryce Roach, Gale Sasson, Ameerah Shabazz, Ella Silivanch, Timothy Simmons, Elaine Tassy, Sheila R. Thompson, Denise Toney and Kelly D. Villalba.”

To see WOAC’s “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”exhibition online, click here.

In addition, it was great to see that Estrela and Jenkins received support from Rey Arvelo, Carol Black-Lemon, Deneise Smith and Patricia Mitrano and also collaborated with the West Orange Human Relations Commission, NAACP Oranges Maplewood Branch, West Orange Public Library, West Orange Youth Caucus, Bloomfield College and the Office of the West Orange Mayor & Township Administration.

The Music

The Artist Reception featured art and a live music performance.

As Gregory Burrus Productions, I was very happy to be the curator of the live music for this reception. I selected the jazz genre, considering the fact that “Jazz is a music genre that originated in the African-American communities of New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with its roots in blues and ragtime. (See Wikipedia.)

UNPA. UN stamps commemorating International Jazz Day. Source: https://news.un.org/en/story/2014/04/467252-world-day-un-celebrates-historic-influence-jazz-connect-people-ignite-social

How does jazz connect to social change? According to this United Nations article:

“Jazz reinforces the role youth play for social change; Jazz encourages artistic innovation, improvisation, new forms of expression, and inclusion of traditional music forms into new ones; Jazz stimulates intercultural dialogue and empowers young people from marginalized societies.”   

Jazz is about improvisation, a blend of different cultures and, like America, Jazz states that we all belong here, have value here and can get along here. So what better way to celebrate a Juneteenth Black Lives Matter event than with this “uniquely American” form of music. It takes from West African culture, the work songs and spirituals of black slaves in America, and European instruments like the piano and the trumpet.

Performing at this BLM Reception in the West Orange Art Center, located adjacent to Luna Stage, was a trio of heavy hitter professional jazz musicians

The artists performing were: Lynette Sheard – Vocals, Brandon McCune – Piano and Marshall McDonald – Saxophone. They performed a medley of jazz tunes from the Great American Songbook that make you smile and tap your feet while you celebrated and enjoyed America’s original art form called Jazz.

A little background on the musicians.

Lynette Sheard – Vocalist

Lynette is a multi-talented and versatile vocalist with a five octave range and perfect pitch. She acts, produces, directs and is a vocal coach. Performances have been acknowledged in numerous publications including, The NY Times, Broadway World, The Record, Hot House, The Patch and The Chronicle. The Star-Ledger proclaimed that “Her voice reaches deep into one’s soul and finds a soft spot.” Lynette is also a director of the Mental Health Association of New Jersey. (See https://www.lynetteentertainment.com)

Brandon McCune – Pianist

This Chicago native makes his home in Newark, NJ. His musical studies began at age three, when his parents enrolled him in the Suzuki Method of Classical Piano. Brandon McCune is an experienced Professional Musician (pianist, organist, drummer, trumpeter, bassist, vocalist, and choir director). Brandon was selected through a national audition as a 1998-1999 U.S. Jazz Ambassador to Africa, where he traveled abroad representing the United States performing public and private concerts, master classes and workshops. (See https://www.facebook.com/brandon.mccune)

Marshall McDonald – Saxophonist

Marshall McDonald was lead alto for 18 years with Count Basie Orchestra, played sax on Paquito D’Rivera’s Latin Grammy-winning album, sax with Abdullah Ibrahim, and clarinet with Duke Ellington Orchestra. This Pittsburgh native’s career had a 10-year stint with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, and he performed at Carnegie Hall with Nancy Wilson, Tokyo Blue Note, Nice Jazz Festival, and with Illinois Jacquet, Tony Bennett, Bobby Caldwell, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Tony Bennett, Milt Jackson, Nina Simone, Rosemary Clooney and Aretha Franklin amongst others.  (See https://marshallmcdonald.com)

Looking Back – Going Forward

Combining the normal in-person experience along with an online component was — and is — extremely important during these COVID times, especially since there was a tremendous amount of work put into this exhibition. It’s great to see and know that the results of these curators, Maria and Carol, will have an impact for some time to come. It’s great to know this legacy of art and music will last far into the future.

WOAC Reception: June 29, 2021

Please enjoy the following shots and subsequent press from this exhibit.

Photos Rich Silivanch, Gregory Burrus

New 12 New Jersey

I’m excited to share that Della Crews of News 12 New Jersey gave a shout out to the artists and poets in the West Orange Arts Council’s “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!” exhibit and shared some of the photos taken by Rich Silivanch at the #Juneteenth artist’s reception last weekend in West Orange, NJ.

Additional coverage links and sources:

NJ.com – Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty

WO Patch – For These Artists, BLM Exhibit In West Orange Has Special Meaning

Essex News Daily – West Orange Arts Center presents hybrid ‘Black Lives Matter’ art experience

Facebook WOAC – Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!

TAPinto/West Orange – 22 Days Left to Visit West Orange Arts Council’s Black Lives Matter Exhibit

A truly beautiful event, gorgeous and inspiring artwork with some wonderful people. Read more here: https://essexnewsdaily.com/arts/98515

About Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus Productions produces and promotes local live music events and is also a social media manager, event developer and community partner that documents local community events in the Greater New Jersey and New York Area. Gregory Burrus reports and blogs about the local arts and entertainment scene, showcasing, photographing, and videotaping events and happenings as they occur all around the towns.

Annual MAPSO Funk Fest is Food, Music, Great Vibes and More (Saturday, August 28, 2021)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Sunday, August 22, 2021

Have you heard about the brand new MAPSO Funk Fest? Well, MAPSO Funk Fest will be a really cool family-friendly festival targeted at helping local Black / Minority-owned restaurants, artisan businesses and the community recover and thrive through these pandemic times. The other day we caught up with MAPSO Funk Fest Founder Lexi Hellerman who was being interviewed by Gregory Burrus Productions Interviewer Lynette Sheard. 

That’s right, MAPSO Funk Fest Founder Lexi Hellerman has proclaimed: “MAPSO Funk Fest is going to be a family event created to celebrate the diversity of MAPSO through food, music, and the arts! 

MAPSO Funk Fest will be showcasing & supporting Black & minority-owned restaurants and artisan businesses in the greater Maplewood & South Orange area. There will be music all day by local DJs and live performers.”

MAPSO Funk Fest

Lexi stated that  "Many small brands have been faced with big challenges and this day is an opportunity to revive the flavor of our neighborhood, invigorate local hand-picked restaurants, and remind people of the rich culture that we are surrounded by." So here's a little about the day’s planned activities.

Food

Food Trucks and Restaurants

There will be food vendors sourced from local restaurants along with food trucks that will be secured from the local communities. Food vendors will ring the park in strategic easy to reach locations for fast and easy access. There will also be a food tasting selection that local restaurants will be participating in for which attendees may purchase tickets and sample a number of the vendors' menu items. 

Beer Garden

In addition, I am very happy to announce there will be a beautiful MAPSO Funk Fest beer garden hosted by our exclusive craft beer provider, Montclair Brewery. This minority-owned business will provide a host of home grown brews to our attendees all day. Please bring ID in order to be wristbanded and purchase beer garden tickets.

Live Music

“One good thing about music, when it hits you you feel no pain”

What's a festival without some funky music? From setup to shut down, there will be music highlighting the various genres representing the diversity of MAPSO, or as Lexi stated in the interview: “there will be house music, funk music and soul music.“  Throughout the day, there will be local DJs and a few live performances at the Springfield Gazebo.

Kids Zone

There will be kid-friendly vendors, educational readings and activities as well as mini workshops throughout the day. Please visit the website for additional activities being added on a periodic basis. 

Wellness Activities

According to the experts, our folks are not looking for an average wellness experience. They’re looking for wellness practices that invigorate them, that allow them to find community, and that speak to their unique sense of culture and identity. MAPSO Funk Fest Wellness events are designed with our core audiences in mind. 

Funk Fest Yoga

Stressed? - Then come on out with the kids, or not, and enjoy the vibe and engage in a relaxing yoga session, gain more flexibility and energy flow. If high energy is your thing, don't worry we got you covered. You will leave totally refreshed, relaxed and reinvigorated to take on your day. We have Funk Fest Yoga for All Ages, Yoga & Stretch Practice #Yogaworld365

Sponsorships and Supporters

The event will boost local talent, businesses, and restaurants. The event is being sponsored by Blackstock & Weber, Springfield Avenue Maplewood, and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Real Estate agent Maria Morrison Heningburg. Learn more about then here. 

Other community partners include Inspired Dream Real Estate, Maplewood Bike Shed, Words Bookstore, Finlay + Gage Music Instruments, Blue Life Karate and Gregory Burrus Productions. 

Additional Sponsorships are available for you to support the MAPSO Funk Fest and you can learn more here. 

Volunteers 

That's right, all MAPSO Funk Fest volunteers are happy people. Yup, you feel real good so why not let's get happy together. We need your support and it takes a village. Volunteers are what makes events like this successful. If you're interested in helping make this day possible, please visit the MAPSO Funk Fest Support page or click here for more information.

About 

MAPSO Funk Fest Founder Lexi Hellerman 

Born and raised in Maplewood & South Orange, Lexi graduated from CHS in 2012 where she had started Diversity Rocks Club at CHS in order to educate and celebrate the diversity of the student body addressing issues of racism in the school district and the goal of creating a unified sense of community among students of different backgrounds. She graduated from Rutgers Newark in 2016 where she studied Sociology & International Affairs. With a never ending appetite for travel and a passion for all things creative and expressive, Lexi loves exploring new places, trying new things, and meeting and connecting with new people.

“With a passion for people and self-expression, I consider myself a multifaceted creative curator. I've always been proud of growing up in such a multicultural place, whose identity is shaped by a wealth of creatives and entrepreneurs of all backgrounds. I truly love crafting a vision and bringing it to life. Inspired by community projects and social impact work, my mission is to continue strategizing and organizing programs, events, and initiatives that truly make a difference for people." 

I believe that small business is the very fabric of any community like ours, representing the passion, creativity, and entrepreneurship of its residents, providing a meaningful service, safe space, or hub for people to connect.”

Contact Information Lexi Hellerman, Freelance project manager, event producer, and brand strategist.

• 973-986-8305

• info@mapsofunkfest.com

• www.mapsofunkfest.com

Won’t You Join Us?

And now, a final word from our Funk Fest Creator and Founder Lexi Hellerman: 

“The day will be a magical celebration of diversity and community with food, wellness and artisan vendor booths surrounding the park with live entertainment and folks enjoying themselves.”

“This is a highly inclusive event that supports businesses of all kinds. We’ve worked diligently to prioritize inclusion of Black, minority, women, and LGBTQ+ owned entities for optimal representation.  Please know this event will follow all state-mandated COVID-19 guidelines. So bring your friends and family for good food, good music and great vibes!”

About the Author Gregory Burrus 

Gregory Burrus with MAPSO Funk Fest Founder Lexi Hellerman, 2021

Whether it’s MAPSO or SOMA, Gregory Burrus is writing about his first love: the creative people, towns and events all around South Orange and Maplewood, NJ. Gregory continually observes, participates in, reports and writes on local community news, live music and the arts and entertainment scene of the Jersey/NYC landscape and beyond, right here as JI blogger Gregory Burrus.

Contact Gregory Burrus Productions to promote your event, business or nonprofit across various social media and blogging platforms. https://gregoryburrusproductions.com or 8622057660.