South Orange, NJ Getting Creative with Places to Sit, Gaze and Ponder Life

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, August 4, 2021

As the summer progresses, so do vacations and, as we are still not completely out of the COVID pandemic, while new variants of the virus are being reported, some folks are reluctant to leave town and instead are taking many stay at home vacations.  Sometimes you just want to take a long walk but you need a destination which means you may need to discover your own hometown. Around South Orange, NJ there are many spots where everyone can enjoy lovely picnics, beautiful landscapes and enjoy off the beaten path places and social locations, where you can sit, stare and ponder uninterrupted, any subject you like.  

Who knows, you might encounter someone you never knew and make an unforgettable memory. There are parks, places, nooks and triangles of spaces to meet everyone's need to ponder life in a friendly public space that meets their needs. An added benefit is that all of these places are within walking distance of our South Orange, NJ public transportation center, the South Orange, NJ Transit train station. So let’s get started checking out some obvious, but not so obvious, spots and parks around South Orange, NJ to sit, gaze and ponder life. 

Sitting Around the Town 

South Orange Rapid Lounging 

One of the things this town does very well, thanks to the Government of South Orange along with the South Orange Village Center Alliance, is converting uncommon spaces into places to just sit in. One day you walk past it, the next day the same space is converted into a relation zone with beautiful yellow and blue Adirondack chairs. 

According to the local newsite TAPINTOSOMA,  The first "Rapid Lounging" location opened in South Orange last Thursday in the grassy area next to 76 South Orange Avenue, on the Valley Street side of the street. Since then, many more have popped up all Around South Orange, NJ.

South Orange Parklet

A "parklet" is located on South Orange Avenue near Sloan Street in front of landmark Bunnies Restaurant, Tito Burritos and Wings, and Lucky 7 Barbershop, where people can stop to chat and enjoy the downtown area. The parklet was designed by Chambers and Clarke, and incorporates native plants and recycled materials.

Next time you pass through town, look out for these inviting spaces, beautiful and relaxing yellow and blue Adirondack chairs, or instant parklets. It's great because instead of just rushing or walking through town, you get to sit, relax and enjoy a different space and view in the middle of town. 

Flagpole Monument — Center of South Orange, NJ

If you are from New York City, like me, and can zone out anywhere, well then this is your spot. Like zoning out on a subway ride, this spot is dead center of town. Historically, the first school in South Orange was located in South Orange where the town flagpole and World War 1 Monument now stands. The school had an inaugural class of 30 students which eventually moved and became Columbia High School. 

This site was dedicated in 1924 and contains a monument that’s cast in bronze and mounted in granite, located at the intersection of South Orange and Irvington Avenues. It is dedicated to those lost during World War I, of which six were from the Village. The flagpole was erected and dedicated by the citizens of South Orange in 1926. It has a nice sitting area, and if you like a great vista, then gaze up the hill into South Mountain while listening to the bustling traffic of South Orange Avenue because this is the place to sit, watch and zone out. 

Meadowland Park 

Meadowland Park contains 4 softball/little league diamonds, 8 lighted tennis courts, soccer and field sports, and an impromptu jogging path. Located at 5 Mead St in South Orange, NJ, Meadowland Park is the perfect destination for recreation, relaxation and exploration! 

The Meadowland Park Conservancy is making great progress, holding events and providing residents a great time. Winter or summer, Meadowland Park provides folks a perfect excuse to come down to South Orange's largest and most-visited park! From a relaxation perspective, there is a beautiful pond, a very nice gatehouse, walkway bridges and a beautiful vista from the top of Flood’s Hill. You can gaze forever, just think and ponder life for miles. There is so much going on in this park, so check out https://www.meadowlandpark.org.

Founders Park 

On a very busy thoroughfare at 265 Valley St is Founders Park. Founders Park is a 2-acre park located in the Academy Heights neighborhood of the Village of South Orange, NJ. The park features a central monument with manicured gardens, a children's playground, and large grassy expanses.

Unique it is. Until 1971, this space was the town cemetery, which had laid in quiet abandonment since 1926, at which time a law was passed forbidding the interment of any more deceased. Many of South Orange's (and Maplewood's) founding families were buried in this park. Look for their names on the central obelisk.

The Founders Park Conservancy is working to improve the park for today and create a vision of a park to be enjoyed for generations. Founders Park has been a hidden gem of the Village's many public spaces. To enjoy this park, just walk into the park off the main street — it gets quiet and reflective. 

Galleon Lawn - Seton Hall University (SHU)

As you can see from the video, Galleon Lawn is a wide open space on the Seton Hall University campus. It can be very busy, but other times it’s just a quiet space and great for studying and relaxing. It’s on campus as part of Seton Hall's 16-acres of open space and serves as an area for event and impromptu sports. Another thing to do is take a Seton Hall walking tour that has plenty of nice locations to divert the mind.  https://www.shu.edu/visit/upload/Campus_Map.pdf

Spiotta Park 

Located at the corner of South Orange Avenue and 20-32 Village Plaza, Spiotta Park is in the heart of downtown South Orange. The town website states: “Spiotta Park provides a sitting area in the middle of busy South Orange Village.” In the middle of the day, it is quiet and a great place to sit and enjoy the moment or, like I do, sit and watch the waterfall.

Former South Orange Village Center Executive Director Bob Zuckerman, now South Orange Trustee, stated during the 2018 renovation and revitalization ceremony, "Spiotta will be a great space for our residents and visitors alike to congregate all summer long, including on weekend evenings during our Downtown After Sundown (now Summer Saturdays live music) concerts."

South Orange Gazebo 

Near the South Orange Performing Arts Center, across from the South Orange Fire Department, and almost under the South Orange Train overpass, this nugget gets classified as a park. For locals and regulars it's a place to sit for a few and watch the circular traffic. The water fountain gives the kids a distraction as they watch the water, the fire trucks come and go, and/or watch the various trains arrive and leave.  Relax, have a conversation with a friend, and definitely catch a live music concert. The best GPS address to use is 17 Sloan Street, South Orange, NJ 07079.

Grove Park

At the eastern end of South Orange is Grove Park, a small park located on Grove Road in the Historic Montrose section of South Orange, NJ.

I found this description from NJ Playgrounds, and it kind of sums it up nicely:

“It is a small park for the pre-school age kids, with a nice walking path loop. It is a nice short walk to downtown South Orange, home of some great restaurants and shops. Nice tunnels for kids to crawl around. Some shade and benches are scattered through the park.”

The town site lists it as: Playground, Walking Track and Passive Recreation. There are benches all around and loads of grass in and out of the sun to passively sit and stare at the vista and the beautiful homes all around the outside.

Carter Park

Yup, this unknown gem Carter Park is located in the Tuxedo Park section of South Orange at College Place off Irvington Ave on the north eastern side of town. It recently received a grant for major improvements (read more here: South Orange’s Carter Park, Maplewood’s Civic House Bridge Get $150K County Grants). While it’s surrounded by homes and businesses, this little pocket park is great when you need a quick break. If you’re working from home but can’t go far, well, grab the kids and let them play while you stare off into the trees.  

Farrell Field 

Farrell Field is a park located at the South Western end of South Orange, NJ at 298 Walton Ave. It contains 2 tennis courts, a playground, half court basketball, baseball diamond, and it’s not on the normal travel paths —it’s a good hike to get to from downtown South Orange. This neighborhood park is overseen by the Farrell Field Park Conservancy.  They state:

“We have many missions, but our overriding goal is to work cooperatively with the Township of South Orange Village to help restore, renew, and assist in the maintenance and development of Farrell Field Park for the enjoyment of township residents and its many visitors. The goal is to protect open space, raise public awareness and support the rehabilitation of the park as well as improvements to the park.” 

Waterlands Park

Waterlands Park is an out-of-the-way park located at 3rd St in South Orange, NJ. Adjacent to a beautiful apartment complex, it is a recreational outlet with a baseball and softball field, sports area, playground and more of a walking track, not jogging track. Here, for a brief time as you take a short walk, you can closely connect with nature, birds and other natural scenery along the East Branch of the Rahway River. The short walking track has some nice trees which makes this place busy when sports activity is in progress, but at other times it becomes a very quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of your day to day. 

So whether you live, work or visit South Orange, NJ you are advised to take a moment and enjoy a number of places and spots where you can creatively take a break, rethink your life, or think about nothing but the view. 

Being the hometown music guy, I have previously written about Making Live Music Around South Orange, NJ While Adjusting for the COVID-19 Pandemic. In that post, I listed about 14 places to listen to live music.  

About the Author — Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus in Spiotta Park, South Orange, NJ with Forget The Whale  

Gregory Burrus is writing about his first love: the creative people, towns and events all around South Orange, 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 to promote your business or nonprofit across various social media and blogging platforms. https://gregoryburrusproductions.com

RECAP: Juneteenth Celebrations Plus More Produced and Curated by Gregory Burrus Productions

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, August 4, 2021

In producing and promoting live music for Saturday, June 19th this year, there were street closings, art gallery receptions and, of course, the newly mandated holiday for Juneteenth. For many parts of this weekend, it turned into a Holiday Celebration. 

Juneteenth is Now a Federal Holiday

This past week, establishing a new federal holiday — effective immediately — caused some scrambling at courts, government agencies and businesses. As it was literally signed into law days before June 19th, 2021 to be a Federal Holiday, many did not know what it meant or that it was a holiday (see “Juneteenth is now a federal holiday, as Biden signs bill”). 

US President Joe Biden laughs with Vice President Kamala Harris and members of Congress as he signs the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, June 17, 2021 [Carlos Barria/Reuters]

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is the holiday commemorating the end of slavery by marking the day enslaved people in Texas learned they were free. Now, it's a federal holiday (read more here: “So You Want to Learn About Juneteenth”, New York Times). The move comes after growing support nationwide for observing the day of celebration and reflection. 

Local Celebrations of Live Music and More

For many of us, we celebrated by reflecting on the greatness of the day and celebrating, but not forgetting some of the recent injustices that still occur today. And for most people, they reflected back on years of struggle, from Angela Davis, Huey Newton and the Black Panthers. The creativity of all types of celebrations helps bring awareness to all that has and is happening. Here’s a look around my town.

Recap: Photography and Art

East Orange: Black Panther | Juneteenth Photoshoot

The Black Panther | Juneteenth Photoshoot held in East Orange, New Jersey!! Happy Juneteenth!! Photographer: @theseredmoments; Production: @talent.sunsetmodels

West Orange Arts Council — BLM Exhibit 

BLM Exhibit curated by Maria Estrella and Carol Jenkins.

Maria Estrela and Carol Jenkins, both female artists of color from Essex County, have a personal connection to a new exhibit in West Orange. For Estrela, she said:

"I purposely utilize my skills to help Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) artists, who are underrepresented in the arts scene […] I feel it's important to raise awareness of the issues faced in their own communities including racism, discrimination, inequality and injustice."

Read more of what they said and all about the exhibit, here:  “For These Artists, BLM Exhibit In West Orange Has Special Meaning”

RECAP: Live Music Bands Around the Towns 

Live Music Summary 

Here’s a quick recap of the June 19th live music weekend festivities.

Victor Jones Trio

We started off in Spiotta Park with world renown drummer Victor Jones with the Victor Jones Trio featuring Robera Piket & Shin Sakeino. The event was produced in association with the South Orange Village Center Alliance. The trio was just amazing to listen to and — an added bonus — it became a mini drummer reunion as drummers rule when Tim Horner, Tommy Campbell, Dorian McGee and many other Victor Jones friends from long ago came out to catch up and enjoy the music.  

Destiny Autumn — Music History

Another highlight was Destiny Autumn Tucker who came out and sang beautifully a song with Victor Jones. Then, Destiny Autumn educated us for the Juneteenth Celebration. She walked us through the history of Black Music and demonstrated various methods of communicating and clapping with us. We all enjoyed it tremendously.

Drum Circle

Drum Circle by Alison V. Brown and Friends for Juneteenth Celebration in Spiotta Park, South Orange, NJ .

Aliison Brown orchestrated one awesome and very well attended Drum Circle with Yahya Kamate and Richard Reiter. As one drum master stated, “This was great, we didn't have to pull people out to play, folks just kept coming and participating."  Yes! The roar of the drums was intoxicating. We have to do it again.  

Cafe Word Bookstore 

Cafe Word Bookstore reported a wonderful celebration with Nia and Steve and Dance Master Susan Pope.

Harmonic Convergence Band

Shout out the Harmonic Convergence band. We tried to go on with another Summer Saturday live music event featuring Harmonic Convergence at the Grid Iron Waffle Stage, but the rain won out. This event will be rescheduled.

Lynette Sheard Entertainment

Lynette Sheard Trio with Brandon McCune and Marshall McDonald. BLM Art Exhibition in Juneteenth Celebration at the West Orange Arts Council located in West Orange, NJ.

Food, Brews & Jazz with Jacque Harmon Johnson Quartet 

Food Brews and Jazz with Chef Jesse Jones and Jacque Harmon Quartet, with Rich Acciavatti, Gary Mancinelli, Richard Pierson, Ben Frank and vocalist Jacque Harmon Johnson in a Juneteenth Celebration at the Montclair Brewery in Montclair, NJ.

Food for the Soul, Tasteful Brews & Swinging Jazz at the Montclair Brewery with Chef Jesse Live - POW!!  What better way to celebrate Junteenth than enjoying Chef Jesse's modern approach to southern cuisine and his delicious delectable cooking. While sampling these soulful delights, folks explored some fabulous Brews of the Black Owned Montclair Brewery and of course listened to the original American music art form - jazz from the great American SongBook performed by the Jacque Harmon Johnson Quartet. Food, Brews and Jazz. A great way to spend an evening.

ZooS Band

ZooS Band with BJ Hermann, Pegaso Cris, Peter McClard at the Eastman Street Summertime Street Closing in Cranford, NJ. Produced by the Downtown Cranford Organization.

South Orange Juneteenth Celebration

We outlasted the rain with poetry, spoken word and, of course, live music — all Emceed by South Orange Trustee Bobby Brown. It was very nice to see our younger folks keeping the cause and flame alive for true freedom.

Tonia Ray All Stars

Tonia Ray All Stars with Nicole Inocent, Norman Stevenson, Kenny Robinson performed at the Juneteenth Celebration on Flood’s Hill in the Township of South Orange Village, NJ.  Listen to a taste: 

MPACK Band 

MPACK Band with Clarence Conover, Patricia Walton, Glenn Merrit, Brett Calder, Kev Nazt Moore and Larry Greenberg performed at the South Orange Juneteenth Celebration at Flood’s Hill in the Township of South Orange Village, NJ.

It was  great to see, hear and enjoy the night's live music performances under the musical direction of Clarence Conover.  It was just fabulous as folks were dancing, jumping, singing and the camaraderie amongst everyone was just fantastic.  

The Fireworks in Flood’s Hill

The fireworks were a very, very cool unexpected touch, and they played out over the music, which was truly spectacular. It actually moved some folks in very touching ways. 

About the Artists

You can learn more about the artists who performed here: Celebrate Juneteenth with Us and Live Music Events In and Around South Orange, NJ .

Since my mission is supporting and exposing the talents of these artists, we hope you take the time to check them out and support them when you can. 

The events were produced in conjunction with:

• South Orange Village Center Alliance, South Orange NJ.

• Gregory Burrus Productions

• Township of South Orange Village, South Orange NJ.

• West Orange Arts Council, West Orange NJ

• Montclair Brewery, Montclair NJ

• Downtown Cranford, Cranford NJ

Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus Productions was extremely happy to capture the day and also provide live music at various towns and venues around North Jersey. 

Gregory Burrus is a Photojournalist, Live Music Ambassador, Arts and Entertainment Writer, Blogger, Business Reviewer, and Community Events Reporter. He is a supporter of local businesses and community events, with a passion for live music. Gregory reviews and writes about local live music programs while booking, promoting and curating many regional live music events around the greater New York/New Jersey area. Having fun, living life, while helping others. https://gregoryburrusproductions.com

Words with P.R. (Edition 6)

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Sunday, August 1, 2021

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about happiness. I read somewhere that it is not a destination, that happiness is an ongoing journey. But for some reason, it has been feeling like a battle. There are so many aspects of life that lead to this pursuit. There is your personal/social life, physical/mental health, professional, and family. I can go on and on. This is why it is important to take care of yourself from the inside and out. Is there peace and happiness in your orbit?

MEET NISHOSOUL

I met Mike, aka Nisho, via social media when he joined our wrestling Twitter community. He was nice, funny, and I learned that he was multi-talented. He is a musician and podcaster. His friends would describe him as laid back, stubborn, and caring.

He hosts a podcast called The Cole and Soul Podcast:

“Alongside my cohost Nicole Learner, we highlight artists, entrepreneurs, and business owners (we emphasize Black/people of color) within the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas. (Commonly referred to as the DMV).

We offer a mix of humor, introspective conversation, and a safe space for the people we interview to really dive deep into the person behind the art. On top of that, I am the sole wrestling fan among us haha. Nic handles all of the technical sides of the podcast as far as editing audio and visual, I handle the booking of our guests and some social media across FB and Twitter.”

SOCIAL MEDIA/MARKETING TIPS

Keep your finger on the pulse of your field. One thing that is important about thriving in the digital space is finding an audience and community. There are billions of people online that you need to find that will be dedicated and engaged in your content. And you also have to be able to provide the information they seek. This means you have to always have your finger on the pulse. For example, once I realized I wanted to start a wrestling podcast, I listened to the most popular wrestling podcast that was out at the time. I also consumed all of the wrestling I could and followed other fan groups and communities. Soon we became the go-to place for women’s wrestling news, and opinions.

Words with P.R. (Edition 5)

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Wednesday, July 14, 2021

IT’S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY

Welcome back to Words with P.R.! This is such an interesting time in my life. Grateful to have this as an outlet.

This edition is inspired by tennis player Naomi Osaka’s choice to take a break from tennis to take care of her mental health. I think it is important to motivate my readers to opt to swim and not sink, but it is also important to emphasize that when feeling you are going to sink… it is okay to not be okay. It is okay to reach out for help.

Huge thanks to the support that the last edition has gotten, where I talk about my journey towards self-love, acceptance, and body image.

QUEEN P.R.’S PICKS

Birdiebee is a brand that I have supported for a couple of years now. And at first, it was just because it was WWE Hall of Famers Nikki and Brie Bella’s clothing line. But once I started to purchase clothing, I loved the fit, fabrics, and designs. The biggest thing for me, though, was how inclusive the pieces are for all body types. I shared my story about it in the 4th edition of Words with P.R., but it really is life-changing when you can feel confident in your own skin. So far I have purchased dresses, activewear, t-shirts, and sweaters. And I recommend it all. You can use code BBAMBASSADOR20 to save site-wide at this link.

I HAVE LEARNED THAT...

SHOUTOUT TO 400 YEARS OF INEQUALITY

I want to share immersive multimedia projects from the University of Orange educating the public on 400 Years of Inequality aka Juneteenth:

A Call Answered: Observing History -- Reclaiming the Future + People's Pathway to Equality

A Call Answered spotlights the change-inspiring work of 5 community-based 400 Years “observances”, events unearthing and acknowledging America’s timeline of inequality, and setting the stage for a new century of recovery.

Art Direction, Media & Digital Content: Gahlia Eden
Creative Producer, Media & Digital Content: Aubrey Murdock
Creative Direction, Marketing Strategy: Stephanie Leone
Editorial Direction, Marketing Strategy: Ricky Tucker
Creative Team: Timothy Nottage, Jacqueline Castaneda, Molly Kaufman, Robert Sember

People's Pathway to Equity provides multimedia activities and the key concepts most critical to understanding and dismantling the ecology of inequality in your community. Across four chapters, you’ll explore the many insights gathered by the 400 Years of Inequality coalition over five years of learning and organizing together, introducing you to people from a range of places who have boldly answered the call for equality, and helping you embark on your own pathway to equity.

Art Direction: Aubrey Murdock
Creative Producer: Timothy Nottage
Creative Team: Aditi Nair, Jacqueline Castaneda, Timothy Nottage
Media + Digital Content: Gahlia Eden
Editorial Direction: Ricky Tucker
Marketing Strategy: Stephanie Leone

I had the chance to talk to some of the amazing team involved in the creation of these amazing educational experiences:

"The website was inspired by the covid-19 shutdown... Aubrey Murdock, Head of School at University of Orange, which was one of the founding partner organizations of 400 Years introduced me to this work. I invited local photographers and videographers to join me in attending and documenting observances." — Gahlia Eden

"I’d want folks to walk away from A Call Answered... with an impressionistic view of the hard work, love, and thoughtful activism it takes to acknowledge everything we’ve been through in this country—and that’s just an acknowledgement. Then comes the hard work of rebuilding, recovering. Our coalition and these websites can be a template for how communities can honor their own historical context—and recovery collectively. The Peoples Pathway site in particular maps out the tools for them to get started." — Ricky Tucker

CHECK IT OUT HERE: 400YEARSOFINEQUALITY.ORG

SOCIAL MEDIA/MARKETING TIP

Consistency is key

When I wanted to start a podcast, I did as much research as I could about what makes these successful. Having the right equipment, topics, and the audience is important. But the number one note I saw everywhere was BE CONSISTENT. This is how you earn dedicated listeners/viewers. You have to be consistent on every aspect of your brand. This means your brand identity, release schedule, social media marketing, everything. Your fans will not even realize how much they are getting used to your content and will engage with it. Most successful podcasts and YouTube channels don’t have the best quality, but their success comes from being consistent.

Words with P.R. (Edition 4)

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Thursday, June 24, 2021

My First Time in a Bikini and My Struggle with Body Image Acceptance

Real talk time.

When I was really young, I wanted to be a model.

But I was too short, too black, and too fat.

I have always felt self-conscious about the way I look. All of my “flaws” stuck out to me growing up: my gap-toothed smile, acne that has followed me into adulthood, and my outie belly button.

My face and body were not perfect and it would weigh on me. I have four sisters and our looks were always compared. I’m a twin, but most of my sisters have the same features from our mom’s side, and me — from my Dad’s side. We are all beautiful inside and out but these things can really get into your head and cause insecurities.

So at a very young age, I gave up my dream of being a model but always loved style and fashion. I had an unhealthy obsession with the Victoria Secret Angels, and fashion editorials in magazines. I resigned to being an aspiring stylist, as I thought with my look that is the closest I could get to being in the fashion industry.

I thank God that I grew up during the time that I did though. Body image and inclusivity have gotten better since my day, but I couldn’t imagine growing up with Instagram. As much as I use social media, just like everyone there are times where it legit scares me.

The unattainable body images of "influencers" and the idea of perpetuating this wealthy perfect life can be so intimidating. And the scary part is, we are all trying to emulate an image that is simply not real. Even the Kardashians use apps to edit their photos. I can’t even imagine young people living through these expectations, on top of cyberbullying.

However, it was through social media that I gained my own self-confidence and acceptance. Thanks to the support of my online community (mostly my podcast Those Wrestling Girls, and other wrestling fans), friends, and family, I have just been putting myself out there.

During the pandemic, I bought a ring light, and since I was home more and had time I would just take photos of myself in my favorite wrestling t-shirts. The feedback was unbelievably positive.

So for the very first time, my twin sister Letty encouraged me to buy a bikini. In all 31 years of my life, I have never once felt comfortable wearing one. But we were going to Vegas and if there is any place to just fucking go for it, it’s Vegas. And once again the feedback was incredible. I almost cried because this was a moment where I came to accept my body in ways I never have.

I don’t have flawless skin, a flat tummy, or an hourglass figure, and THAT IS OKAY. I can imagine this being refreshing as everyone on Instagram tends to look like clones of each other.

My journey into self-acceptance actually helped me get my most recent brand ambassador gig with Birdiebee, founded by the Bella Twins. These two wrestlers and businesswomen have inspired me to feel comfortable in my own skin and to own my imperfections.

My honesty about not having the perfect body but still OWNING IT is the story of the brand and something I will always connect to. I am grateful that there are no “real models” on their website, including me!

As I move more into the role of an “influencer” as a podcast host, and with brand partnerships with two clothing brands, the notion that I will now have to put myself out there on social media for “work” is daunting.

Will that insecure little girl come back as my followers grow and lead me into a dark place? Only time will tell, but for now, I will continue to utilize social media features: mute, block, and comment disabling.

Support my new partnership with Birdiebee, by buying really cool tees, cropped sweatshirts, activewear, and more with inspiring messages. You can use my affiliate link here, and follow me on Instagram for special coupon codes like QUEENPR15!

Celebrate Juneteenth with Us and Live Music Events In and Around South Orange, NJ

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Saturday, June 19, 2021

Come celebrate with Gregory Burrus Productions, South Orange Village Center Alliance, the Town of South Orange and West Orange Arts Council as they pay homage and tribute to Freedom Day on June 19th, 2021. 

There will be a number of live music events starting at Noon in and around South Orange, West Orange and more, all the way to 10 PM. Take a look, plan your visits, and have fun with these free events. 

Noon - 2 PM Victor Jones Orchestration in Spiotta Park

Photo credit: Albert Clarke, https://www.instagram.com/alclarke_photography/

Victor Jones Orchestration -  Jazz is America's One True Original art form.

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. Jazz can express many different emotions, from pain to sheer joy. In jazz, you may hear the sounds of freedom — for the music has also been a powerful voice for people suffering unfair treatment because of the color of their skin or more. Jazz has spread from the United States to many parts of the world, and today jazz musicians — and jazz festivals — can be found in dozens of nations. Jazz is one of the United States's greatest exports to the world.

Victor Jones is world renown drummer and has performed and toured with such luminaries as Stan Getz, James Moody, Michel Petrucciani, Joe, Olivia, Stanley Clarke, Phyllis Hyman, Dizzy Gillespie and Chaka Khan as well as others. As George Benson said, ”Whether playing funk, rock or jazz, Victor Jones is one cat that gets it right.” 

We invite you to come listen to the Victor Jones Orchestration as we kick off Juneteenth with this world renown visionary performing the music that has survived through the ages. 

2-2:45 PM Destiny Autumn Music In Spiotta Park

Destiny Autumn "...and it's all thanks to Black Musicians"  

Did you know almost all music we listen to today originated from black artists and musicians of yesterday?  Local musician, Destiny Autumn, will break down the history of black music stemming from Hymns of the South to the Pop hits from the North and everything in between dating from the past until present day! You don't want to miss this fun and educational presentation this Juneteenth! Singing, dancing and having fun are a must. All ages, kids to adults, are welcome to participate. 

Destiny Autumn is an up-and-coming professional musician, songwriter and performer based in the New York metropolitan area, who writes and sings from the heart to the hearts and souls of the people. She began her musical journey studying classical piano and voice, and then expanded her palette to various other genres. She studied Jazz and obtained her degree from Indiana University: Jacob School of Music. Destiny has had the opportunity to perform on stage with world renowned artists such as Darmon Meader, Roseanne Vitro, Nadine Herman, Tierney Sutton, Bobby McFerrin, John Raymond, Jeremy Fox and many more.

2:45-4:45 Invigorating Drum Circle In Spiotta Park

We are having a Drum Circle and You are invited

Group rhythm-making evolved from the earliest times of man or woman. When we couldn't communicate verbally, we grunted or banged something as a form of shared expression. That is a Drum Circle! It's when we join together in UNITY to express ourselves through another voice. 

Come on out and express yourself through rhythm with our local resident drummer Allison Brown. Special Guest Richard Reiter, Saxophonist/Jazz Master/Spiritual Drumming Circle Leader, will be joining us with a few friends. Bring your Drum and Chair, or we have some for you. All ages, kids to adults, are welcome to participate.

Lynette Sheard Trio Live at BLM Exhibit at the West Orange Arts Council 

Maria Estrela and Carol Jenkins, both female artists of color from Essex County, have a personal connection to a new exhibit in West Orange.

Participating Artists: 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.

Learn more at  https://tinyurl.com/yumbkryp

You can read more right here: For These Artists, BLM Exhibit In West Orange Has Special Meaning

The gallery show will be open for in-person visits at 551 Valley Road, West Orange, NJ through July 31. A reception will be held on Saturday, June 19 from 4 to 7 p.m.

4:30 - 5:30 PM Juneteenth BLM Live Music Experience 

Performing at this BLM Reception on June 19th will be a trio of heavy hitter jazz musicians performing outside the West Orange Arts Gallery at 551 Valley Road in West Orange, NJ starting at 4:30-5:30 PM. Adjacent to the Lunar Theater, they will deliver a medley of jazzy tunes guaranteed to make you smile and help you celebrate America's original Art form.

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. Her 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. 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) serving as a principal music instructor, composer, counselor, arranger, and performer with a special concentration in the jazz, classical, and gospel genres. 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.  https://www.facebook.com/brandon.mccune

Marshall McDonald - Saxophonist

Marshall McDonald played Lead Alto for 18 years with The Count Basie Orchestra, played Baritone sax on Paquito D'Rivera’s Latin Grammy-winning album Tropicana Nights, played baritone sax with Abdullah Ibrahim and also played clarinet with The Duke Ellington Orchestra. This Pittsburgh native’s career also includes a 10-year stint with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. Other career highlights include performances at Carnegie Hall with Nancy Wilson, The Tokyo Blue Note, The Nice Jazz Festival, Illinois Jacquet, Charli Persip, Frank Foster, Tony Bennett, Bobby Caldwell, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Tony Bennett, Milt Jackson, Nina Simone, Rosemary Clooney and Aretha Franklin, amongst others. https://marshallmcdonald.com 

Tonia Ray All Stars and MPack Band on Flood's Hill, South Orange, NJ

Tonia Ray and Clarence Conover have been making music in the New Jersey scene for a long time and these two bands, Tonia Ray All Stars and MPACK, will delight the crowd with a series of jumping and popping R&B tunes. 

6:30 - 7:30 PM Tonia Ray All Stars

Tonia Ray brings down the house with her events, whether on the big stage, the club or a nursing home. Known to sing a variety of genres, she brings listeners to their feet, dancing and making sure everyone is having fun. She sings classics from Whitney Houston, The Marvelettes, Diana Ross to Dolly Parton, Bette Midler, and much, much more. She’s guaranteed to give an audience a performance they will not stop talking about. 

8:00 - 9:00 PM MPack Band

MPack is a band, a brand, and a musical production enterprise, consisting of multiple elements in an ever-evolving flow. It is the musical brainchild of bassist, guitarist, keyboardist, drummer and vocalist Clarence ‘Groove Master’ Conover. He’s the founder and CEO of M-Pack Music productions, whose motto is “Life Changing Sounds.” MPack brings an explosive energy to the stage, guaranteed to rock the house all night long!

They will take us back, and bring us back to today. Good times, dancing and shaking in your seat guaranteed.

You are invited to celebrate Freedom Day on Flood's Hill and enjoy these FREE live music performances. Bring your own picnic, or purchase BBQ and beer from the Gaslight Beer Garden.

About Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus Productions produces/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, videotaping events and happenings as they occur all around the towns. 

Words with P.R. (3rd Edition)

By Patricia Rogers | Posted Friday, June 18, 2021

CHOOSE TO SWIM

What is the saying? You make plans and God laughs? I have been coming to terms with this for years. I’ve learned: don’t take it personally. You’re not “doing life wrong.” I’ve realized that the ups, downs, uncertainty, and mistakes we will all ultimately make, are just... life. When I started to take my struggle with anxiety and depression seriously I made a vow not to let it ruin my life. I ask myself: are you going to swim or sink?* As hard as it is, I always choose to swim. And this is only possible with the love and support of my friends, family, and the continued pursuit towards living a full life.

I recently chose to swim:

My Trip to Vegas

My twin sister Letty and I had been planning a trip to Las Vegas for Memorial Day weekend. For the first time, I was going away, paid vacation days, money in my savings account, and ahead on rent. Proud adult moment. And then, two weeks before the trip I get a severe toothache. And a very long and uninteresting story short, I had to get a tooth extracted. Booooo.

I am now depressed during the week leading up to this fun trip. I hate the dentist, I hate dealing with medical shit, I had to stop eating and enjoying my vices. And of course, my shitty insurance didn’t cover everything so I had to spend all of the money in my savings account that I was so proud of. I was very close to canceling the trip but didn’t want to let my sister and friend down. Glad I didn’t just because it was not the perfect trip I had in mind, doesn’t mean I should sink and not go.

So I swam and went to Vegas anyway. Yeah, I couldn’t eat real food, or smoke legalized weed, but so what? I went and it was fucking awesome. I actually stayed offline from work and the podcast to truly escape and have a good time. We met some of the coolest people (other black travelers) and made unforgettable memories.

My Las Vegas recommendations are the SAHARA Hotel, ReLeaf Weed Dispensary (my sister loved it), and definitely walking the strip. And I can not stress enough, even my melanin queens and kings WEAR FUCKING SUNSCREEN! So I hope this inspires you to push through even when things do not go as planned. While in Vegas, missing teeth and all, I rediscovered a piece of myself and learned that just because something isn’t perfect doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. Literally, nothing in life will go completely as planned. And that is perfectly okay.

MEET WHITNEY CHANEL CLARK, NYC-BASED COMEDIAN

I went to high school with Whitney, and she was one of my best friends. We shared a love and respect for each other I still feel ‘til this day. She was always a great writer and could honestly do anything she set her mind to (as corny as that sounds).

In her words, “Whitney Chanel Clark is a stand up comedian in New York City pushing the boundaries of comedy in what's now a politically correct world. I’d say Whitney Chanel is the entertainer and Clark is the business woman. All together, it’s the total package”.

In the last few years I have watched her try her hand at comedy, and go on to be the leader of Clark House Comedy, as well as a mentor for queer comedians. When I asked her about those boundaries in comedy she has pushed she said, “My brand of comedy impacts the LGBTQIA+ community by encouraging the more aggressive/dominant women to embrace their femininity. I’m that old school gay, don’t ask don’t tell gay, I think it’s fine to dress like a man and not want to turn into one. My brand of comedy is about making regular gay cool again.”

She has weekly shows around the country and has been featured on Bravo, VH1, and BuzzFeed.

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TIP

When building your social media presence, no matter that platform: INTERACT AND ENGAGE WITH EVERYTHING. I think something that people forget when it comes to social media is that everyone on it are real people. Actual humans who are taking their time to engage with your platform. Acknowledge them. It is not about the follower count — in my opinion that is important — it's the amount of real (not bots) humans that react to your content.

Interview with Walt Blau, Host of Walt's Kitchen Table Podcast

By Sonia Schnee | Posted Friday, February 12, 2021

In April 2020, the first episode of Walt’s Kitchen Table Podcast made its debut on YouTube, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and other streaming outlets. It featured the host, Walt Blau, interviewing “the OG of storytelling,” his own father. “Hearing all sorts of crazy stories growing up created my thirst for knowledge and [joy] of hearing people's stories on where they have been and how they got to where they are,” Walt writes in the caption for the first episode.

For anyone who likes telling stories — and learning from other people’s stories — Walt’s Kitchen Table Podcast is a destination. From the founders of Jersey nonprofits, to the owners of Jersey breweries, it seems like everyone’s been on Walt’s podcast, and if you haven’t been on it yet, well… you should!

Check out our interview with podcast creator, Walt Blau, below, to learn more about the mission behind the podcast, and, of course, don’t forget to follow Walt’s Kitchen Table Podcast on social media.

What’s your name, where are you from, what do you do?

Walt Blau, from CO, and I am an Area Field Manager for U-Haul.

Tell us about your podcast, Walt’s Kitchen Table. What’s the focus of the podcast? Who do you have as guests?

When you gather with friends and family, where do you get together?... In the kitchen! Everyone you meet knows something you don't. I invite people on to share what they know that I don't. As for guests, I believe that everyone is extraordinary and accomplishes amazing things every day. I invite anyone to join me and share stories, good conversations, laughs, tears, and life experiences with me.

What inspired you to start this podcast?

I started this podcast project due to my unquenchable thirst for knowledge and conversation.

What do you hope listeners and guests will get out of each episode?

That they, too, accomplish amazing things every day, and you do not have to be a rock star or famous or whatever to be extraordinary. This world is made up of awesome people, and don't sell yourself short!

Finally, how can people get in touch with you? (Links)

Website: https://waltskitchentable.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/wktpodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4WxRxeR3uPpnGCBG6oSJYg

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/213350080343983