Monday, December 12, 2011

HOLIDAY EVENT: Holiday Gardens Lights (I'm in!) - until Jan. 7, 2012

Holiday Garden Lights
at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens





Experience a dazzling extravaganza featuring nearly 1 million lights crafted into displays inspired by nature. Highlights include a galaxy of stars in the woodlands; whimsical bees, butterflies, and other lighted pollinators in the Edible Garden; and 200 show-stopping, color-changing topiary forms choreographed to holiday music on the Great Lawn.

This intown experience features elegant, traditional elements such as wrapped trees and cones up to 30-feet-tall. Staying true to the Garden’s history of blockbuster art exhibitions, the show design emphasizes stunning, innovative, and artistic light installations as well as fun, whimsical elements.

In addition, the Garden is decked in holiday favorites such as an 18-foot poinsettia tree, holiday displays of unusual plant material (tillandsias, bromeliads, alternathera), and, of course, hundreds of poinsettias!

“It’s going to be a joyful, exhilarating outdoor experience – and so much more fun than being smooshed up against your relatives peering out car windows,” said Mary Pat Matheson, the Garden’s executive director.


For more info: http://www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org/



Sunday, December 4, 2011

VIDEO: Life is a Dance


When I saw this, I knew I had to share it. True dance is the merging of mind, body, spirit, and this video is a beautiful visual of such expression. Enjoy! (Now, where are my dancing shoes?)



Ian Eastwood - So Beautiful (Musiq Soulchild)



Wednesday, November 16, 2011

FUNDRAISER: THE "ASK" - NBAF



2011 Fall Membership Campaign




Outstanding programming! 
I'm donating. Are you?

Do it today!

Monday, November 14, 2011

EVENT/EATS: MMXI Gridiron Gourmets - Nov. 20th

www.gourmetsgents.com


The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter, launched "Gourmet Gents" in 1989 as the organization's first annual fundraising effort. More than 200 Atlanta gentlemen responded to the Coalition's call to volunteer their time, their culinary skills and their own food provisions to raise money for the Coalition's service project.

Today, the event has been hailed by many as Atlanta's premier "gents cook-off." More than 500 people attended the inaugural event, and the following year, 150 chefs served more than 700 guests who attended the event to enjoy the festivities, cuisine and entertainment. Since then, Gourmet Gents has grown more popular in its appeal to the community, attracting over 3,500attendees eager to sample the uniquely inspired entrees of more than 300 chefs and several of Atlanta's premier restaurants.

Gourmet Gents features fabulous culinary delights, expertly prepared by celebrity chefs and those who boast of being super "gourmet chefs." Donned in chef hats and aprons, each Gent is stationed at individual tables to display their culinary masterpieces and offer tasty samples amidst a backdrop made festive with music, entertainment and the excitement of the affair.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

RIP: Hip Hop Artist/Reggae Singer/Actor Heavy D


Many of you may not know this, but I am a HUGE, longtime fan of Heavy D. His music always brought a smile to  my face, heart, and dancing feet. No other Hip Hop artist, in the past or now, dedicated his art to talking about "romancing" (not sleeping with or identifying body parts of) women, loving oneself, and embracing humanity like he did.  I am still in shock at his departure. I, of course, had to show him some love on my blog.

You will be missed, Heavy, but your artistic contribution to world will live on.  May you RIP.

We Got Our Own Thang - Heavy D & The Boyz



BET Hip Hop Awards 2011 - Heavy D

Black Coffee - Heavy D & The Boyz


Sunday, November 6, 2011

FESTIVAL: BronzeLens Film Festival Nov. 10-13



The BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia is a non-profit organization, founded in 2009, that is dedicated to bringing national and worldwide attention to Atlanta as a center for film and film production for people of color.
In fact, the mission of the BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia is two fold: to promote Atlanta as the new film mecca for people of color; and to showcase films and provide networking opportunities that will develop the next generation of filmmakers.
From November 10 through 13, 2011, film lovers, actors, and film makers will gather in culture-and-heritage-rich Atlanta, Georgia, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis to share a creative platform of education, entertainment and empowerment discussions related to film, as well as television, and the production of both. The BronzeLens Film Festival will feature screenings in multiple venues, as well as informative panels, and enlightening Master Classes led by top names in film, direction, and production.

Friday, November 4, 2011

FESTIVAL: Chomp & Stomp Chili Cookoff & Festival in Cabbagetown Nov. 5, 2011








Chomp & Stomp Chili Cook-Off and Bluegrass Festival
                                                                   SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2011 
 CHILI WILL BE SERVED AT 12:30

8 am: Romp and Stomp 5k begins· 9 am: Early bird gets the beer. We will make sure to tap some kegs for those thirsty 5k runners.· 
9:15-10:30 am: Load in for our chili cooks, vendors and artists. Avoid the streets of Cabbagetown, Dekalb Avenue, and Krog tunnel! Just sit in the park and watch the fun. It is sure to entertain. OR, you can volunteer to help out and be part of the action!· 
11 am The Festival officially begins with music, food vendors, artist market, and beer.· 
12:30 Chili tasting begins … be there or be hungry. This is a slight deviation from last year. Trying to give folks a bit more time to get there before the chili is all gone! 

6 pm The Festival ends! You don't have to go home, but you can't stay here... we recommend you head on to one of the great Chomp after-parties nearby!

MUSIC: Anthony Hamilton at Center Stage - Dec. 1



Rival Concerts Presents:

ANTHoNY HAMILTON

Dec. 1, 2011

Doors 7pm/Show 8pm
Center Stage Atlanta

Jill Scott f. Anthony Hamilton's SO IN LOVE


MUSIC: International Soul with Les Nubians & Avery Sunshine Nov 17th


An evening of International Soul with Les Nubians & Avery Sunshine
 Presented by Alliance Francaise @ Hot Ice Live
Thurs. Nov. 17th @  595 North  
Performing some of their top hits and new music from their highly-anticipated 3rd album Nü Revolution (Shanachie Entertainment), Les Nubians capture crowds with an energized mix of R& B, hip-hop, African music and other world elements performed in English and French.  Long-time fans still buzz from past NationalBlack Arts festival performances and Princesses Nubiennes favorites like Tabou, Makeda and Demain (Jazz).


Les Nubians's AFRODANCE

Atlanta-based Avery Sunshine continues to set U.S. urban commercial radio, club DJs and European audiophiles on fire with music and remixes from her self-titled Avery*Sunshine album. The consummate performer/singer/song writer is wooing live and radio audiences with her infectious blend of R&B/Soul, Dance Music, Jazz, Christian & Gospel, Rock


Avery Sunshine's ALL IN MY HEAD









FESTIVAL: Dekalb Int'l Food & Music Festival Nov. 12


The inaugural DeKalb International Food and Music Festival will present multi-cultural cuisine and entertainment from across the world on Saturday, November 12, 2011 from 2 to 8 p.m.
Guests are invited from across the Southeast to join us for this incredible blending of cultures and cuisine at the GM Doraville Assembly Plant Parking Lot in Doraville, Georgia, one of the most diverse cities in Metro Atlanta.
The Festival includes six hours of cultural, educational and entertaining activities that everyone will enjoy.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

MUSIC: Singer Anthony David (w/Kindred & Choklate) - Nov. 16th



ANTHONY DAVID
A New Hope Fundraiser w/ 
Kindred The Family Soul, Choklate
Doors 7 / Show 8 / All Ages
$25/adv., $30/day of show
Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011
Location: Center State Atlanta




LOVE THIS SONG!!!: "4EverMore"

UPDATED MUSIC: The Foreign Exchange tour ATLANTA - Nov 9




TWENTY28 & FROM AFROS TO SHELLTOES Present

THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE AUTHENTICITY TOUR
feat. Phonte + Nicolay | Sy Smith | Zo! | Jeanne Jolly | Live Band
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
The Masquerade
695 North Avenue NE
Atlanta, GA
All Ages | $20 adv
Doors 7pm
SHOW INFO & TICKETS <http://www.theforeignexchangemusic.com/2011/08/the-foreign-exchanges-authenticity-tour-at-masquerade-atlanta-ga-nov-9-2011.php>



The Foreign Exchange - Maybe She'll Dream Of Me


Thursday, October 20, 2011

EVENT: Holistic Mind, Body, Spirit Fair & Green Market Oct. 22 & 23




Location: Art Space International
1192 Huff Road NWAtlanta, GA 30318
10/22/2011 - 10/23/2011
Ticket Prices:General Admission: $5


(ERROR ON FLIER: "Event hours")

Visit the Holistic Mind, Body, Spirit Fair and Green Market. This positive living and uplifting event will be packed with live lectures, environmentally friendly products, natural personal care and natural beauty, yoga classes, astrology, chair massage, crystal and energy healing, free product samples, intuitive and tarot card readings and more. For more information contact us. Admission for fair allows reentry for the weekend. http://artspaceatl.com/exhibitions.html or http://entertainment.georgia.com/atlanta-ga/events/show/207967205-body-mind-spirit-fair

FESTIVAL: Chastain Park Arts Festival Nov. 5 & 6




Chastain Park
4469 Stella DriveAtlantaGA
404-845-0793

This is the third year to hold an outdoor arts and crafts festival at Chastain Park. Approximately 200 artists and artisans will enjoy the unique beauty of Chastain Park. This event will be very conservative, with a sensitivity to the park and neighborhood.

Location:
Park Drive, Chastain Park
4469 Stella Drive (for GPS directions)
Atlanta, Ga 30327

Times:
Sat., November 5, 2011 from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sun., November 6, 2011 from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Music: Acoustic music only
Admission: Free to attend

"This is the ideal fall festival to enjoy the cooler weather, browse for irresistible holiday gifts and appreciate the majesty of Chastain Park, one of Atlanta's true jewels," says Patrick Dennis, President of the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces.

This event will showcase approximately 200 artists and artisans. The festival is organized and run by artist volunteers who understand the needs and challenges of artists and how best to connect with consumers.

http://www.chastainparkartsfestival.com
http://www.affps.com

Saturday, October 15, 2011

FESTIVAL: Dunwoody Music Festival at Brook Run Park - Oct. 22 & 23




In its third year, the Dunwoody Music Festival opens this fall with a ton of really cool new features that will entice attendees of all ages. Taking place in Brook Run Park, North Peachtree Rd., on October 22 and 23, the music festival features multiple stages, an enlarged children’s area, and an expanded vendors market. New for 2011 aspects like the Young Adult Zone and 80s Rock Concert will kick this community festival into high gear!

WHAT Third Annual Dunwoody Music Festival

WHEN Festival open Saturday, October 22, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 
Saturday Headliner 80s Rock Concert 7 to 11 p.m. 
Breakdance Battle 7 to 11 p.m.

Sunday, October 23: 12 to 6 p.m. 

* some special features may have slightly different times 

WHERE Brook Run Park
4770 N. Peachtree Road, Dunwoody, GA 30338

EVENT: L5P's Halloween Festival & Party - Oct. 22



Atlanta’s Largest Halloween Party  - Saturday, October 22nd, 2011 from Noon-Midnight
The Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade is the signature Halloween festival in the southeast and one of the top ten Halloween events in the country. It is staged in Little 5 Points, Atlanta’s premiere business, arts and music district. Each October, countless thousands of  people flock to Little 5 Points to enjoy great food and drink, live entertainment and the best Halloween parade in the South!
Two main stages of music beginning at Noon and going til 11:00pm.  The Famous Halloween Parade begins at 4:00pm on Euclid & Moreland Avenues in Little 5 Points!
Link: http://www.l5phalloween.com/

Monday, October 10, 2011

FILM: Atlanta Philosophy Film Festival - Oct 18 & 19




The 2011 ATLANTA PHILOSOPHY FILM FESTIVAL will be held at the Plaza Theatre, the city's oldest continuously operating cinema, located at 1049 Ponce De Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30306.


The Atlanta Philosophy Film Festival was born from a thirst for understanding of the bigger questions in life and the love of the Classic Cinema which traditionally offers more questions than answers about the human condition. We truly believe there is an audience for the thinking cinema, so we gear our festival not only to film and philosophy enthusiasts, but also to anyone who has the ability to envision Cinema as a viable medium for philosophical exploration and discussion.


Screening Group A - Tuesday, October 18th at 9:30 p.m.
Screening Group B - Wednesday, October 19th at 7:30 p.m.
All shows are FREE to the public.

EVENT: Oprah's About O You! 2011 - Oct 15th




About O You! 2011
O, The Oprah Magazine

On October 15, 2011, O will take over the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta for a day dedicated to you and living your best life! Every year, this full-day event brings O, The Oprah Magazine readers from around the world together with our most distinguished experts like Suze Orman, Dr. Oz and Nate Berkus for a truly memorable day of learning, inspiration and fun!

Want to start living your best life now? Here are a few questions to consider as you prepare for an incredible day dedicated to YOU!

  • Who are you meant to be? Are you focused on your passions, dreams and goals?
  • What's holding you back? Are there obstacles preventing you from living your best life?
  • How do you want to be seen? What qualities make you, you, and how can you best express yourself to the world?
  • How are you living your best life every day? Think about your health, your spirit, your body, your style... even your finances!


Sunday, October 9, 2011

EATS: Taste of Atlanta Oct. 23-24





The best festival since sliced bread is back and firing up its ovens, October 23 and 24, for the 9th Annual Taste of Atlanta at Technology Square. Experience delicious dishes from more than 80 of the city’s best restaurants as your taste buds explode during this year’s mouth-watering event. Enjoy entertaining demos from shows such as Meal Makeover Moms or head over to the Farm to Festival Village to discover the wonders of Atlanta’s sustainable movement. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TasteofAtlanta.com. And remember, please eat responsibly!


For 10 years, Taste of Atlanta has showcased hundreds of Atlanta's favorite restaurants, celebrated Atlanta's best chefs and shown the world why ATLANTA is the crown jewel of the South. No one does it better than Taste of Atlanta's local chefs, our Georgia farmers and the city's talented bartenders. Come celebrate everything FOOD Atlanta has to offer. Experience delicious tastes from more than 80 of Atlanta's favorite restaurants, exceptionalfood+wine+beer+cocktail tastingsseminars and food pairings and relaxing music cafes. 

FILM: BronzeLens Film Festival Nov. 10-13





Make plans now to attend the 2nd Annual BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta on November 10-13, 2011.

- Festival Workshops and Panels: Included in your all-access registration!
- Festival Opening Night Party: Open to the BLFF registered attendees and included in all-access registration!
- 4 Days of Screenings: Open to the festival’s registered attendees and included in all-access registration!

Be sure to sign up for a BronzeLens Master Class – each one taught by an industry legend
  • Bill Duke’s 3 Day Boot Camp
  • Screenwriting with Pilar Alessandra
  • Career Transitions with Jasmine Guy
  • Making and Marketing an Indy Film with Ava DuVernay

REGISTER TODAY: http://www.bronzelensfilmfestival.com/index.html


The BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia is a non-profit organization, founded in 2009, that is dedicated to bringing national and worldwide attention to Atlanta as a center for film and film production for people of color.
In fact, the mission of the BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia is two fold: to promote Atlanta as the new film mecca for people of color; and to showcase films and provide networking opportunities that will develop the next generation of filmmakers.
From November 10 through 13, 2011, film lovers, actors, and film makers will gather in culture-and-heritage-rich Atlanta, Georgia, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis to share a creative platform of education, entertainment and empowerment discussions related to film, as well as television, and the production of both. The BronzeLens Film Festival will feature screenings in multiple venues, as well as informative panels, and enlightening Master Classes led by top names in film, direction, and production.

BOOKS: 2-Day Writing Experience for Women - Oct 21 & 22




What: A one-of-a-kind writing experience for women
 When: Friday, October 21 and Saturday, October 22nd
 Where: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta (UUCA)

Cost: (Friday night only) Keynote Speaker Pearl Cleage $30.00
2 Day event: $85.00
Saturday at the door: $100

Meet, learn and participate in a workshop led by celebrated authors and poets. Also enjoy a Yoga and meditation session designed to fuel your creative energy, and an opportunity to perform for an audience. You will also have the chance to have a personal meeting with a professional editor to discuss your work. Lastly, submit your work to be published in the Getting in Touch with the Source anthology.


For registration and additional Information:

Tickets available at:
UUCA - 1911 Cliff Valley Way, Atlanta 30329
Charis Books & More: 1189 Euclid Avenue, NE, Atlanta 30307
Phoenix & Dragon Bookstore: 5531 Roswell Road, NE Atlanta, 30342

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

RIP: Steve Jobs...A OneofaKind Leader 1955-2011

Steve Jobs

No words can adequately explain his contributions to Apple & the world.
Thus, I'm not going to try.

God bless you, Mr. Jobs.
You will truly be missed.

EVENT: Rev. Dr. Joseph E. Lowery 90th Birthday & Performance Oct. 9th





Joseph Lowery 90th Birthday
Sunday, October/09/2011, 06:00 PM
Venue: ATLANTA SYMPHONY HALL

Atlanta Symphony Hall

October 9, 2011 at 6:00pm
Reserved Seating

HIS WORDS-OUR GIFT


Dr. Panion will conduct the Atlanta Symphony in a performance of "Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery: His Words - Our Gift, A Musical Experience" at the Atlanta Symphony Hall.

Hosted by CNN anchor Soledad O'Brien, the event is slated to feature star-studded appearances by Stevie WonderJennifer HolidayPeabo BrysonLady Tramaine Hawkins,The Blind Boys of AlabamaCicely Tyson, the Morehouse and Spelman College Glee Clubs, and many others.

All in honor of Dr Lowery’s 90th Birthday and to benefit his work through his nonprofit. Considered the Dean of the Civil Rights Movement, Lowery, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr and others formed the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957. He served as SCLC President from 1977-1997. For over half a century, he has worked tirelessly through nonviolent resistance to champion the causes of justice and equality for all. He delivered the benediction at the Inauguration of President Barack Obama, and was awarded the Nation's highest civilian award, The Presidential Medal of Freedom. HIS WORD-OUR GIFT is a celebration of his work and the civil rights movement through brilliant performances by special and surprise performers. It will be a performance you will not forget.

Ticket Prices: $50, $75 & $100; All tickets are subject to 8% sales tax and service charges. Orders are final sales with no refunds. 

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

EVENT: Jodine's, of Jodine's Corner, Farewell - Oct. 6th


JODINE'S FAREWELL




One of my closest friends and inspirations is moving to the "Big Apple". If you know Jodine of Jodine's Corner, you know that Atlanta will miss her cultural influence, trendsetting styles, and the BEST HAIR in the city. (chuckle) ME? I'll truly miss my friend. HOWEVER, this is not a goodbye. It's a "see you later" gathering to send her off with kind words, hugs, and OF COURSE cocktails. Hope to see you there!

Time
Thursday, October 6 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Location
The Reserve at Cafe Circa
464 Edgewood Avenue, SE
Atlanta, Georgia 30312

Link https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=117176158389750

More Info
Jodine Dorce is leaving the ATL for NYC later this month. We can't let her get out of here without a gathering of friends. We've finally gotten the all clear on her schedule and are set at Cafe Circa on Thursday, October 6 at 6. Stop by, show her some love, give her a hug and an encouraging word as she moves into the the next phase of her life.


AFTER PARTY: 
John Roberts presents "Simply The Best" hot live music and sexy vibes For more info: "SIMPLY THE BEST" FB RSVP