Better 2 Give “Enriching Tomorrow’s Community, by Enriching the Youth of Today”
June 30, 2009 by Russ McClinton
Filed under Community |
Reaching to Encourage the Achievement of Dreams (R.E.A.D) With your Child Youth Betterment Program
Better 2 Give is a group of individuals dedicated to making a large impact on the youth in Birmingham’s inner city communities. Our initial project, R.E.A.D with your child, is focused on improving child literacy in inner city communities. We aim to encourage family participation and extracurricular reading to facilitate the improvement of our youth’s reading abilities. In our efforts to significantly strengthen literacy amongst the community’s youth, we are striving to distribute books to children throughout various communities as well as provide them with incentives to read at home through our programs.
Better 2 Give is in need of new or used children books to aid in our mission to strengthen literacy amongst Birmingham’s youth. We are holding a Community Unity Day as part of our summer long book drive. The Community Day will be held on Saturday, July 18th from 12-7pm at Patton Park.
In addition to being a book drive, B2G’s Community Unity Day will contain a health fair and a business exposition component. The goal is to provide information about resources available to aide the health and economic well being of the community, as well as encouraging individuals to get involved and become educated about the various ways to improve themselves and their community.
We are in search of organizations that have the potential of having a large positive influence on local communities to participate by setting up a booth. There is not a charge for participation, however we ask that each organization brings at least 5 new or like-new children books. In order to take advantage of this great opportunity to reach out to the community and inform them of the resources available through your organization, please contact us. Also, feel free to forward this information on to any other party you feel may be interested.
Additionally, we are in need of helping hands to assist with book collection, distribution and mentoring in our reading program. If you or any organization you are involved with would like to aid us in nourishing children literacy, please do not hesitate to reach out: readwithyourchild@gmail.com
Thanks in advance for your help.
Jonathan Wilson and Marie Blaize
Organizers, Better 2 Give
334-524-8823
A NEIGHBORHOOD REUNION: 25 YEARS IN THE MAKING!
Birmingham, AL – Digging deep into the archives at the Birmingham Public Library yields interesting information about one of the oldest neighborhoods in Birmingham – Titusville. According to written reports, in the mid-1860s freed black slaves founded the community of North Titusville. North Titusville was one of the first communities in Birmingham where blacks could legally own residential and commercial land. It became home to many of the first black businesses in the city. For that reason, until the 1970s, the majority of college-educated blacks in the city came from the area.
Today, the roots of Birmingham City Council President Carole C. Smitherman, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Birmingham Mayor Larry P. Langford, and Judge J. Richmond Pearson, just to name a few, are some of the prominent individuals whose roots can be traced to historic Titusville.
Now to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of Titusville Day: A Neighborhood Reunion, a series of community events will take place July 9, 10, and 11, 2009. “These events will include community services along with festive activities,” says Birmingham City Council President Carole Smitherman, District 6, who has fond memories of growing up in Titusville.
25th Anniversary of Titusville Day: A Neighborhood Reunion starts Thursday, July 9, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. until – 10:00 p.m., with a blockbuster movie in Memorial Park (524 6th Avenue South). Plus, guests are encouraged to bring your dancing shoes to participate in what could become the longest Electric Slide Line in the City of Birmingham.
Then, Friday, July 10, 2009, starting at 8:00 a.m., everyone is invited to join volunteers for the Titusville Neighborhood Clean-Up Initiative. Enthusiastic volunteers from MFUGE, Rebirth and Living Church Ministry are volunteering their time to clear clutter and re-paint older homes in historic Titusville some which were designed by famed architect Wallace Rayfield. Later that night, adults can enjoy a dance at Leonard’s (104 6th Avenue South), starting at 9:00 p.m. with Disc Jockey Chris Coleman from 98.7 KISS FM on the turntables.
The schedule on Saturday, July 11, 2009, begins at 8:30 a.m., which will include a Unity Prayer Breakfast at South Elyton Baptist Church (100 1st Avenue South) with special presentations to honor unsung heroes of Titusville. The first 65 Titusville neighborhood residents will receive complimentary breakfast; the cost for all others is $8.00 per person. Continuing Saturday, the three day celebration will culminate with a fun day in Memorial Park. From 12 noon until 7:00 p.m. festivities will include: music stages, fun zone, tournaments, demonstrations, health screenings, speakers, and much more. These events are free and open to the public.
To learn more about the 25th Anniversary of Titusville Day: A Neighborhood Reunion log onto www.TitusvilleDay.com or contact event coordinator Jestina Howard at 205.639.3536.
Sponsors and supporters of the 25th Anniversary of Titusville Day: A Neighborhood Reunion include: Birmingham City Council President Carole Smitherman, District 6, Senator Rodger Smitherman, State of Alabama, City of Birmingham, Titusville Development Corporation, The 25th Anniversary of Titusville Day Planning Committee, Baptist Health System, Birmingham Museum of Art, Birmingham Public Library, Birmingham Zoo, Coca-Cola, Verizon Wireless, Urbanham.com, MBI, Nestle, and McWane Science Center.
MICHAEL JACKSON DEAD AT AGE 50
June 26, 2009 by Urbanham
Filed under Did You Know, Featured, Music |
BREAKING NEWSThe Los Angeles Times reports that Michael Jackson has died at age 50 after being rushed to UCLA Medical Center.
Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Steve Ruda told the newspaper that Jackson was not breathing when paramedics arrived at his home and CPR was performed.
TMZ.com reported that he may have suffered cardiac arrest.
For full story click here
ORGANIZING FOR AMERICA NATIONAL HEALTH CARE DAY OF SERVICE
Parkway Square Health Fair & Feeding Our Neighbors
events around the country designed to educate the public about the value of a healthy lifestyle.
by Top Notch Athletics and much more.
Contact Catherine Hunt for any follow up questions or comments. Catherine Hunt | 205-821-1209 | cchunt205@yahoo.com
Birmingham Hip Hop Pioneer and Emmy® Nominee releases solo CD
June 24, 2009 by Urbanham
Filed under Entertainment, Music |
Patrick Johnson (aka S. Fly of B’ham pioneering hip hop group, The Red Light District) will release his debut solo CD - “Where Did It Go Wrong? the birth of Blaq Angel” - on July 14th, 2009. The resounding response from the hip hop community on the news from this Emmy® Nominated producer has been unanimous – they say “it’s about time”!
S. Fly is a noted producer and hip hop activist, and was the chief founder of the mighty Red Light District – a family consisting of emcees, singers, and musicians – and helped pioneer the Alabama underground hip hop music scene. In 1996, Red Light released the now-classic single “I Know”, becoming the first Birmingham AL rap group to gain regular rotation on a major reporting station and selling over 300 copies in one week. The group followed up with the full length Welcome to the Red Light – Vol. 1 (1997), The Session (1998 and 2000), The John Woodlawn Project (2003), and several underground mix CD’s. During this era, Red Light produced and recorded advertisements for WABM-68 (2000 Fall jingle), St. Ides, and several local politicians and political groups – the first of any such group from Birmingham to do so. In later years many wondered if Red Light had broken up, as there was no new music being played on the radio as “I Know” had been. Many people, especially Alabama fans, asked the question “where did it go wrong?” S. Fly took it upon himself to answer that very question in his debut solo installment.
The Birth is reminiscent of the golden era of hip hop with concept songs, storytelling and stellar production. Jon “Supreme” Malone touches the boards, as well as Red Light members Vic the Truth, Mr. Greenjeanz and of course, S. Fly.
Birmingham model, Alexis Webb, makes Jet Beauty of the week
June 20, 2009 by Urbanham
Filed under Urban Profiles |
Alexis Webb appears in Jet Magazine this month as the Jet Beauty of The Week. Representing South Models, LLC and putting Birmingham on the map. Photographer Raquel Thomas shot the picture and her Swimwear sponsored by Everything But Water (The Summit) was eye catching. “It’s unbelievable seeing me in a magazine my parents subscribe to. It was an honor to receive this opportunity,” she says. Alexis is a part time student, full time worker, model, sister, and daughter. She enjoys working out, shopping, and spending time with family.
Alexis’ modeling resume continues to grow. She has been featured in videos for Young Dro featuring TI, T-Pain, Akon, Marques Houston and Yung Joc. She has been a promotional model for Jack Daniels, Crown Royal, Ciroc Vodka, and Seagram’s Gin for over three years. Print Ads for Cloochie, Ol Skool Carz,LLC, First Impressions Marketing, Sexpert Fashions and that’s just a to name a few. Be on the lookout for more from Alexis in her modeling career that will continue to excel. Her next projects include upcoming magazine publications, acting, and event hosting.
Patricia Pickett
South Models, LLC
Off The Chain Management, LLC
http://www.smodelsinc.com
New Law Requires Hospitals to Disclose Financial Assistance Policies
June 16, 2009
Bill sponsored by State Rep. Merika Coleman gives patients easier access to financial assistance information
BIRMINGHAM AL. – A bill sponsored by State Representative Merika Coleman was signed into law requiring hospitals to fully disclose written information to patients regarding their financial assistance policies. The bill, which will go into effect October 1, 2009, requires that each hospital bill or other summary of charges include a statement that a patient who meets certain income criteria may qualify for assistance. Hospitals will also be required to conspicuously post a sign in the admission and registration areas with the following notice:
“You may be eligible for financial assistance under the terms and conditions the hospital offers to qualified patients. For additional information, contact the hospital financial assistance representative.”
The bill is an effort to help ease the health care burden on needy families. “In these hard economic times, it was important to me to do something to help people struggling to pay their hospital bill. The new law is a win-win for both the hospital and the patients”, said Rep. Coleman. Coleman is currently pursuing the District 19 Senate seat vacated by E.B. McClain and health care reform is a major component of her campaign platform.
The bill is one of two recent pieces of health care legislation sponsored by Rep. Coleman during the regular legislative session that passed; each aimed at helping to better ensure the health care needs of all citizens are met. Governor Bob Riley also signed into law Rep. Coleman’s bill allowing all funds generated by Cooper Green Mercy Hospital to be retained by the hospital’s general fund and to be expended as budgeted by the hospital. Before the law was enacted, all revenue above and over the budget was sent to the Jefferson County General Fund and used for other county operations.
What’s In a Word ?
Bitch, hoe, motherfucker, nigga, chicken, cluck,…
ready to click on another link ? I would understand based on the mental image those words conjure up. However, for some reason those words seem to be common place in the black community and have become as common as the word “you”.
Brothers, think about it, does it seem to be part of being a black male that we refer to our woman as either “bitch” or “hoes” , “chicken” etc.. Whether we are conscience of it our not these words produce an unconscious image of a person that isn’t to be respected always degraded and only to be used for bodily pleasure.
Sisters, every time you refer to that man in your life or a brother you have had a relationship with in the past as “that nigga” , “lame ass nigga” etc.. a negative mental picture is presented and your innate concern for his well being is tossed to the wind. This makes it easier to put that brother in the system for child support or in jail.
Black folks, take a look around.. listen to other races as they speak about themselves. You will be alarmed to find that we are (generally) the only race of people in America that uses negative words in reference to our men and women. Could it be a coincidence that we are also the only race in America where our young men kill each other in such large numbers ?
The problems of the black community are much deeper that words however, I do believe that changing “OUR” language toward one another would be a GREAT start. Lets try brother, sister, king and queen from now on and see how that works.
My Black Is Beautiful
June 18, 2009 by Urbanham
Filed under Entertainment, Featured |
MY BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL celebrates the unique and dynamic qualities of the African-American woman. Hosted by BET’s own Tasha Smith, MY BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL is an energetic, interactive and informative lifestyle, beauty and fashion series that will uplift and inspire African-American women by celebrating their unparalleled beauty.
Tune in Sundays at 1 PM/NOON C.
The series will showcase the very best of Black women through feature story profiles, celebrity red carpet interviews, updates on the latest fashion trends, health and beauty tips from our leading industry experts, and special lifestyle and behind-the-scenes feature segments.
MY BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL is the resounding and definitive source for information that celebrates the beauty, inside and out, of the African-American woman, both young and mature.
These four half-hour specials establish superior standards of style and beauty and serve as an online resource for viewers who want to keep up with the ever-evolving style trends and products. Online, our viewers will also have the opportunity to share and tune in to inspiring stories of success and beauty among their sisters of color.
Tune in Sundays at 1 PM/NOON C.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE!
ON THE SET SUMMER FILM CAMP BRINGS DARRIN HENSON
(PRESENTED BY THE ACTORS/DIRECTORS GUILD – A 501 (C) 3 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION)
Birmingham youth were looking for a laboratory to learn acting, directing, producing and cinematography. On The Set summer camp was created to be that resource. It teaches kids the full realm of filmmaking while shooting a short film. The short film will star a real Hollywood Actor.
“I am excited to come to Birmingham and participate in On The Set Summer Film Camp”, says Darrin Henson. Darrin, a veteran actor whom we all know from movies like Stomp The Yard, The Express and the Showtime series Soul Food will serve as the celebrity mentor for On The Set Summer Camp 2009 and star in the short film produced by the campers.
The movie entitled “2:59” is the script that will be shot. It is the story of a young girl who has a premonition of her school being held hostage by a terrorist. It reveals the positive result of God being in our public schools.
On The Set will premiere the youth produced movie in November 2009. The movie will also be shown in other Bright House Network’s markets around the country. On The Set 2009 camp site will be Woodlawn High School.
Open registration will held at the Sheraton Civic Center Medical Forum Blg. Room F. on July 11th (10 a.m. to 2 p.m). The summer camp begins July 16th and runs through July 24th.
On The Set is presented by Peep This Actors/Directors Guild (a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization). The mission is to serve as a public laboratory for showcasing academic year and summer professional training & research in film, theater and music for Birmingham and the State of Alabama youths.
On The Set 2009 is being sponsored by: Bright House Networks, The Wachovia Foundation, Birmingham Arts & Cultural Committee and Seraaj Family Homes.
If you would like more information or to schedule an interview with an On The Set staff member please call 205.602.2208 or email peepthis@bham.rr.com.
