tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78125019570359322902024-03-12T20:30:39.059-05:00Zack's TV-USA A Midwest- based news magazine about entertainment, politics, and moreGo Zack TV http://www.blogger.com/profile/16708356165565162464noreply@blogger.comBlogger171125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-48401319906435847842022-04-11T14:49:00.000-05:002022-04-11T14:49:30.877-05:00The #BlackGirlMagic of 2022 NCAA Women's Gymnastics Championships <p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQnGLBlxI_3ePEr_1tWWZ2nFHgDSX7xmy6FNThcz3fY_1nZiBMFvMmEt0KiDeyG-ANTLrxf2s4T5yNuirUSXir17onN8_BhIuEvJEBjCi1fO3ifIgOp-ojSK2VVedYwopAXBF9aslYVBCPrEobli_rEukjv2YhHGf7BCax7fkXzMB-Cv0y0G9p1PH/s275/ThomasFL.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="200" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQnGLBlxI_3ePEr_1tWWZ2nFHgDSX7xmy6FNThcz3fY_1nZiBMFvMmEt0KiDeyG-ANTLrxf2s4T5yNuirUSXir17onN8_BhIuEvJEBjCi1fO3ifIgOp-ojSK2VVedYwopAXBF9aslYVBCPrEobli_rEukjv2YhHGf7BCax7fkXzMB-Cv0y0G9p1PH/s1600/ThomasFL.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">For NCAA Women's Gymnastics, the University of Florida's Trinity Thomas is a big deal. The graduating senior holds to continue her streak of perfect 10s at this week's national championships in Fort Worth, Texas. From her flawless Yurchenko 1 1/2 vaults to her sky-high double-layout somersaults on floor exercise, Trinity has mastered the same skills that were popular in the 1990s (before she was born).</span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">If all goes well, Thomas is expected to win gold on floor or with the team competition. Thomas's athleticism excites crowds of all backgrounds, but she's a true role model for young girls who look like her. She exudes a sense of #BlackGirlMagic that makes the sport appear equitable for all. Yet, she stands on the shoulders of her predecessors from collegiate and professional women's gymnastics. The late Dianne Durham (the first black U.S. women's gymnastics champion), Dominique Dawes (the first black women's gymnastics Olympic gold medalist) and Simone Biles (who has so many firsts that we can't name them all).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CGRxNhe1rhA?start=40" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>The Evolution of Black Women In NCAA Gymnastics</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">This year marks 40 years since Women's Gymnastics became an official championship sport for the NCAA. Over the course of history, black women were not represented in large numbers. With the exception of Corrine Wright Tarver (the first black gymnast to <a href="https://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/sports/corrinne-wright-tarver-made-big-mark-at-georgia-as-ncaa-all-around-national-champion/article_81171316-9ac4-11ec-82db-cbc1a43f43da.html">win</a> a NCAA all-around title) and Dee Foster Worley (the first black woman to be a <a href="https://www.al.com/sports/2013/04/huntsville_hall_of_fame_dee_fo.html">scholarship athlete</a> for the Crimson Tide), many NCAA black female gymnasts were overlooked in the past. Thankfully, the historic strides made by black women in professional gymnastics has opened the door for more recognition and expansion of opportunities. (In fact, Fisk University will be the first HBCU to compete in women's gymnastics and they will be <a href="https://www.fisk.edu/featured/fisk-university-names-ivy-league-coach-corrinne-tarver-to-lead-its-new-womens-gymnastics-program/">coached</a> by Corrine Wright Tarver.) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><i>Black Women Gymnasts To Watch at Nationals</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Trinity's not the only black woman competing at the NCAA championships. In fact, Missouri has the most black female gymnasts competing on one team (5). A full list of all the other talented black female gymnasts is featured below: </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"></span></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Nya Reed (Florida)</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Sloane Blakely (Florida) </span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Bri Edwards (Florida) </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Alex McGee (Florida) </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Sheridan Ramsey (Oklahoma) </span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Danae Fletcher (Oklahoma) </span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Derrian Gobourne (Auburn)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Ananda Brown (Auburn)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Aria Brusch (Auburn) </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Jada Glenn (Auburn) </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Sania Mitchell (Alabama) </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Cammy Hall (Utah)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Jaedyn Rucker (Utah)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Sierra Brooks (Michigan)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Naomi Morris (Michigan) </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Gabby Wilson (Michigan)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Amari Celestine (Missouri)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Alonna Kratzer (Missouri) </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Amaya Marshall (Missouri)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Jocelyn Moore (Missouri)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Kalise Newson (Missouri) </span></li></ul><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">(If there any more we've missed, let us know in the comments) </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-46933127585750391152020-01-06T08:00:00.000-06:002020-01-06T08:00:10.810-06:002020 Notables in Education: Changing Careers, Changing The Game<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As 2020 begins, America's teacher shortage crisis continues. In fact, the Economic Policy Institute recently <a href="https://www.epi.org/publication/the-teacher-shortage-is-real-large-and-growing-and-worse-than-we-thought-the-first-report-in-the-perfect-storm-in-the-teacher-labor-market-series/">forecast</a> that the teacher shortage could double from 2018 to 2025. However, one analyst disagrees that there's a teacher shortage. Instead, he thinks that states are <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/petergreene/2019/09/05/we-need-to-stop-talking-about-the-teacher-shortage/#5246ca6a494c">overlooking</a> available talent. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">At ZTL, we have an eye for talent. We see teachers across the country who are striving to make a difference. One trend being overlooked is that many teacher candidates are career-changers. For them, the best role models are current teachers who changed paths in order to change lives. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PeKrZXeMeL4/Xg_6XdMMlNI/AAAAAAAAEN8/0clmBDJqP7Ed8fTMW5n4B32roNynazFAACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/JAdd1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="433" height="232" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PeKrZXeMeL4/Xg_6XdMMlNI/AAAAAAAAEN8/0clmBDJqP7Ed8fTMW5n4B32roNynazFAACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/JAdd1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>JORDAN ADDISON</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rochester, New York</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Elementary School Teacher</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-addison-185b24156/">Jordan Addison</a> wants his students to be better decision makers; for him, it's a way of life. When Addison was in college, he was at a career crossroads: he had to decide between becoming a parole officer or an athletic director. Then, a third option became available. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">"After graduating, I was presented with an opportunity in the realm of education," Addison remembers. "I thought: 'What better way to lead my people to become the utmost of themselves?'" </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Soon, the former athlete changed career paths. Addison enrolled at Nazareth College for the Master of Education program. During graduate school, he was a standout student and "poster child" for the program. (For a brief time, he was featured on the school's website.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After graduate school, Addison hit the ground running as a sixth grade teacher. Later, he found a position for a fourth-grade classroom. His hard work garnered a New Teacher of The Year Award in 2018. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the beginning of the 19-20 school year, Addison tried some successful new techniques. "I put students in leadership positions," he explained. "But each student was held accountable by their peers based on our 'Class Mission' and the 'Six Principles'." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In a short time span, Addison's strategy was working. Student behavior had improved, thus he could focus on his teaching. For the young professional, students perform better when they are self-regulated. "I want our kids to understand how it feels to be leaders and not simply take orders from someone," he shared with ZTL. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Several weeks ago, he welcomed his own bundle of joy at home and became a father. But Addison's good fortune was eventually countered with bad news. As Addison enjoyed paternity leave, he was informed that he would <a href="https://www.whec.com/news/rcsd-budget-gap-layoffs-teachers/5588271/">lose his job</a>. Now, he is back at the crossroads. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In 2020, Addison has an optimistic outlook. He has received numerous job offers from nearby school districts. Yet, his heart remains faithful to Rochester. </span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-71393249400816180272020-01-01T06:00:00.001-06:002022-04-11T13:13:03.241-05:002020 Notables in Business: Problem Solvers, Trendsetters & Global Citizens<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As 2020 begins, ZTL salutes business leaders who are opening doors for the next generation. We have chosen 2020 Notables in Business after doing extensive research about people who make investments in their communities. You will see problem-solvers, thought-leaders, and global citizens who create lasting impacts in their respective fields. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><b>PROBLEM SOLVERS</b></u></span></span><br />
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</span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q8RJKCRZ6EA/XgmNtTqrYyI/AAAAAAAAEMk/0wwD9XlbC3gqrHKCcJA7NauD-oaVBOjFwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/jmercerFB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q8RJKCRZ6EA/XgmNtTqrYyI/AAAAAAAAEMk/0wwD9XlbC3gqrHKCcJA7NauD-oaVBOjFwCK4BGAYYCw/s200/jmercerFB.jpg" width="150" /></span></a><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Joshua Mercer</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Insurance Agent</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Chicago, IL</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Joshua Mercer should run for Mayor of Chicago. (No, seriously. The dude is that impressive.) He's a proud, lifelong Chicagoan who is making big moves in business and real estate. For him, selling insurance is part of the family legacy. Mercer's mom is a veteran insurance agent who encouraged him to follow in her footsteps. Yet, he still found time to use his Master's degree in Education to benefit young people in his hometown.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Based on Mercer's work, problem-solving is a major component of his job. His customers/clients seek his help to find the most affordable and efficient insurance plans. However, this process comes with challenges. Mercer's staff works to meet the needs of every customer but there is no perfect insurance plan. Through this, Mercer must engage in problem-solving for his customers (including risk advising and claim adjustments) and for his own business. Still, Mercer's agency is highly rated on review sites and respected throughout Chicago. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Outside of business, Mr. Mercer is involved in the community. He has </span><a href="https://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20161125/beverly/swish-dreams-joshua-mercer-allstate-insurance/" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">helped</a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> countless youth through his Swish Dreams Foundation and work with Chicago Public Schools. Now, he's gaining notoriety for his advertisements (which can be seen at Mariano's stores in Evergreen Park) and his TV appearances on WCIU-TV's "The Jam". As 2020 progresses, he is going to reach new heights in business. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To learn more about him, click <a href="https://agents.allstate.com/joshua-mercer-chicago-il.html?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Website">here</a>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><b>TRENDSETTERS </b></u></span></span><br />
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</span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D63hFwBX7J4/XgrQxlxgRTI/AAAAAAAAENM/dz9Om_N-JAQPJMUEBbMQYrAkLbcO8OwzwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/ejmays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D63hFwBX7J4/XgrQxlxgRTI/AAAAAAAAENM/dz9Om_N-JAQPJMUEBbMQYrAkLbcO8OwzwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/ejmays.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Erin Jacobs Mays</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Pflugerville, TX</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Marketing Guru</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Erin's on a roll: she's already been selected for Austin Under 40 and Austin Inno's 50 on Fire. (This blog is just the icing on the cake.) As the CEO and Co-Founder of <a href="http://theebco.com/">Ebco</a>, Mrs. Mays helps her clients be trendsetters in the fast-paced world of marketing. For the past 20 years, Integrated Marketing Communications has been the main vehicle of this industry. The concept of having one voice across all marketing initiatives is key for a brand's success. Ebco's team understands this and offers their clients ways to be trendy throughout all of their marketing channels. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Mrs. Mays and her team know all about trends. They conduct "trend investigations" for clients-- which help clients do more than they stay ahead of the curve. With Ebco, clients can create a new curve and set their own trends. Through "trend immersions", clients can develop new ways for their brands to reach consumers.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In this new decade, Mays will be leading the way to better marketing experiences. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><b>GLOBAL CITIZENS</b></u></span></span><br />
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</span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F4gASOpuVBQ/Xgo5XxBKYrI/AAAAAAAAENA/SYjE9isW-v0ntDvRaLvkpdEKwlP86a17gCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/LindaCalhoun1510_1510-755x755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F4gASOpuVBQ/Xgo5XxBKYrI/AAAAAAAAENA/SYjE9isW-v0ntDvRaLvkpdEKwlP86a17gCK4BGAYYCw/s200/LindaCalhoun1510_1510-755x755.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Linda Calhoun</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Nonprofit Executive</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">San Francisco, CA </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ms. Linda Calhoun is the ultimate role model for young ladies. According to her official bio, she is an "entrepreneur, activist, and community leader". As the Founder and Executive Producer of <a href="http://www.careergirls.org/">Career Girls</a>, Ms. Calhoun connects girls with role models and equips them with valuable life skills for future success. She uses her background in international policy, social justice, and STEM to find ways to help girls achieve equity in the global marketplace. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In 2020, Ms. Calhoun is the multi-faceted professional who can help shift the narrative of the Presidential election cycle. Understanding women's issues is critical for the success of every candidate. Thus, Calhoun's <a href="https://philanthropynewsdigest.org/npo-spotlight/career-girls">quest</a> to bridge the "imagination gap" will not be vain. She understands the global implications of female empowerment. In due time, her efforts will come to fruition. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">**</span></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Throughout the year, we will be adding more Notables in Business. Stay tun</span>ed! </span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-80108824950092833552019-12-24T18:00:00.000-06:002019-12-26T18:02:27.055-06:00"The Famous Jett Jackson" (Where Are They Now?)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1cZx5ivMr3E/XecVYJ7zcbI/AAAAAAAAEJU/sfVMjaPH0lEoiOPvZuw4oSf6_ktv-kyXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/fjjCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="385" data-original-width="528" height="233" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1cZx5ivMr3E/XecVYJ7zcbI/AAAAAAAAEJU/sfVMjaPH0lEoiOPvZuw4oSf6_ktv-kyXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/fjjCover.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In 1998, the Disney Channel premiered a groundbreaking series named "The Famous Jett Jackson". The late Lee Thompson Young (1984-2013) played "Jett Jackson", a television star who moved his show from Los Angeles to his small North Carolina town. For three seasons, Young became one of Disney's first faces of diversity and opened doors for other actors/actresses of color to have their own shows. Tragically, he passed away from suicide in August 2013. Yet, his legacy <a href="https://thedailyfandom.com/in-its-20-year-anniversary-the-famous-jett-jackson-continues-to-stay-important/">lives on</a> through his fans and former cast mates.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(Montrose Hagins, who played Jett's great-grandmother, passed away in 2012.) </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What ever happened to the surviving cast members? Zack's TVLife did some digging to bring you up to speed.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>GORDON GREENE</b> ("Sheriff Wood Jackson") </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Mr. Greene is now producing and directing his own projects, including "XXENOS" and "Coconut Hut". You can find more information about him on his website, <a href="http://www.gordongreeneprojects.com/">Gordon Greene Projects </a>. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>RYAN BAUM</b> ("J.B.") </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-woDa6yeubJw/XecbX1777gI/AAAAAAAAEJ0/Y2x8rqvi2lYG5jiATQHju-IFvu5KmuAHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ryanjbjett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="268" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-woDa6yeubJw/XecbX1777gI/AAAAAAAAEJ0/Y2x8rqvi2lYG5jiATQHju-IFvu5KmuAHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ryanjbjett.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The Lord told me to tell you that J.B. is a <a href="https://siouxcityjournal.com/lifestyles/local/former-disney-channel-star-finds-a-new-audience-in-sioux/article_d34d3361-2179-5c8a-b375-60aa5b11e015.html">pastor</a> now. Ryan has gone from Ryan Sommers Baum to Ryan Dowell Baum. Baum pastors First Congregational United Church of Christ in Sioux City, Iowa. By the way, Ryan's pronouns are "they, them, and their", so please address Ryan accordingly.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>KERRY DUFF</b> ("Kayla") </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nf2p7_Qecsc/XecdC0UJ_PI/AAAAAAAAEKA/lDllw194PxgAVVbnqTwKWy8XBPeiLau2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/KaylaKerry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="335" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nf2p7_Qecsc/XecdC0UJ_PI/AAAAAAAAEKA/lDllw194PxgAVVbnqTwKWy8XBPeiLau2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/KaylaKerry.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Kerry Duff is hard to find. She hasn't been active in the entertainment industry and doesn't have a social media presence. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you have any updates about cast members, please share them below. </span><br />
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</span> Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-58758698369082013702018-01-02T19:41:00.003-06:002018-01-02T19:41:56.353-06:00Litao Chinese: One of YouTube's Best Mandarin Teachers?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qqI-DNwRL8E/Wkwwxsme9rI/AAAAAAAAD6k/3Vrn2xVEwDwpTkbvQdCJiVbtISZGWjRRQCLcBGAs/s1600/litaonihao.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="521" height="229" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qqI-DNwRL8E/Wkwwxsme9rI/AAAAAAAAD6k/3Vrn2xVEwDwpTkbvQdCJiVbtISZGWjRRQCLcBGAs/s320/litaonihao.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Meet Tao Zheng. ("Taw Jung") </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He is a popular YouTube instructor who offers brief Mandarin Chinese lessons on his channel. (For longer videos, viewers have to pay at <a href="https://litaochinese.com/">Litao Chinese</a>.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Zheng's YouTube subscribers leave positive feedback about the comfortable, slow speed in which he teaches. In addition to that, the male YouTube commenters value Zheng as an instructor who teaches the tones in a masculine voice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mandarin Chinese is one of the world's fastest growing languages. In fact, Al Jazeera has <a href="http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2018/01/al-jazeera-launches-mandarin-language-website-180101085619213.html">launched</a> a Mandarin language site to appeal to 1.4 billion residents of China. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For an example of Litao Chinese on YouTube, check out the video below. </span></div>
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<br />Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-2385034071950791662017-12-29T13:12:00.001-06:002019-12-02T20:34:21.672-06:00Couples Uncorked: A Relationship Page for EVERYONE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rYyu756Z99o/WkaRzv6LV0I/AAAAAAAAD5Q/GdDYGWA_DAoq6IXr5I5jSQaa0fUBYbE_ACLcBGAs/s1600/16603035_1327278667339127_6712789523415383888_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="864" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rYyu756Z99o/WkaRzv6LV0I/AAAAAAAAD5Q/GdDYGWA_DAoq6IXr5I5jSQaa0fUBYbE_ACLcBGAs/s320/16603035_1327278667339127_6712789523415383888_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">Walter and Christina Donald believe in love. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">The Los Angeles-based couple operates "<a href="http://www.facebook.com/couplesuncorked">Couples Uncorked</a>", a relationship page on Facebook for singles, married people, divorcees, and widowers. Wherever you are in the relationship cycle of life, The Donalds have something that can inspire you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">The Donalds met in Mississippi when they were students at Rust College. Over the past two decades, they have developed a strong bond which has inspired other couples to pursue love. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">If you're looking for love in 2018, stop by Couples Uncorked. You might make a love connection! </span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-55393679732801836752017-01-05T22:13:00.002-06:002017-12-30T14:55:08.720-06:00Entertainment Pros You Should Know! [NOTABLE '17]<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Today, we begin our series, "Notable '17"-- a compilation of leaders who are making big moves in various fields of endeavor. </span></span><br />
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</span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">For our first installment, we'll take a look at people in the entertainment industry who will definitely become household names in the future. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here are <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">some</span> entertainers<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, managers, and creative artists</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">wor<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">th noting: </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. <b>MOODY BLACK (mOody bLaCk)</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Greenville, SC</span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.iammoodyblack.com/"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Website</span></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Spoken Word/ Hip Hop Visual Artist, Storyteller, Photographer, Slam Master</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In his own words: "I'm a smart arts teacher who works with teachers to implement poetry in their curriculum. I want to travel the world and share my art to leave a legacy of wealth for my children. I just released my new CD, "The Uncovering, Pt.1" and I am working on a new Hip-Hop CD.<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">"</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(</span>Maybe he'll get his wis<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">h to be on "Ellen" in 2017<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">.)</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Stay tuned! </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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</span></span></span></span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">2. NATASHA YOUNGE </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Los Angeles, CA</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Actress/ Blogger (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheYoungeHollywoodBlast/?fref=ts">The Younge Hollywood Blast</a>)</span></span><br />
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</span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha Younge is a "big deal" for web series creators because she makes a big deal out of their works. As a veteran actress, she understands the struggle. Through her work, she has created a rising tide to "lift all boats." We salute her!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0AqMXKNYxQ8/WG27Uuf6UFI/AAAAAAAADvE/kH3gnAfIENsbqQIlshLjTUiU_CSpipJawCLcB/s1600/14572900_10206102561798045_8408804372157105158_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0AqMXKNYxQ8/WG27Uuf6UFI/AAAAAAAADvE/kH3gnAfIENsbqQIlshLjTUiU_CSpipJawCLcB/s320/14572900_10206102561798045_8408804372157105158_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">3. JAI SLAUGHTER</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Entertainment Host/ "Brandma"</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">GYST Network </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago, IL</span></span><br />
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</span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">As the host of "Talk To Me Tuesdays", Jai gets the scoop on major topics relating to her fellow millennials. In addition to that, she works with GYST Network-- a visual accountability group. </span></span><br />
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</span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">4. WILLIAM MARK </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Comedian/ Martial Artist</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago, IL</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">William knows how to make your sides ache-- either from his jokes or his jujitsu skills. He's a multicultural force in Chicago. There's no telling how far he can go in 2017. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. KATRELL MENDENHALL</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Owner, <a href="http://www.kmodelstalent.com/">KModels Talent Agency</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago, IL </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You can't have future entertainers without good agents like Katrell Mendenhall. She represents models and actors in her South Loop office of Chicago. We wish her the best during 2017 and beyond. </span> </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">6. HERBERT C. HARPER, JR. </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Actor</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago, IL</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Herbert C. Harper, Jr. has a distinguished name with the impeccable work ethic to match. He's making big moves in the Chicago acting scene and wants to land his first major role this year.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Maybe he'll get a role playing "Luther Vandross" in a biopic. You <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">never know!</span></span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>7. IFEOMA NKEMDI</b> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Actress/ Teacher</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago, IL </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ifeoma ("ee-foh-ma") is a classic beauty with over 25 years of experience in the arts. A proud resident of Chicago's West Side, she has traveled all over the world to study her craft. Currently, she passes on her knowledge to her students. It's only a matter of time before "Ms. Nkemdi" has her full circle moment and achieves international fame. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_VWH8S1Y9lo/WG8T91iJhBI/AAAAAAAADv4/OJnyc9rLHZs3REU1JWS_cFU6E3YDMBqAACLcB/s1600/14021574_10157337653110440_1749269014976977469_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_VWH8S1Y9lo/WG8T91iJhBI/AAAAAAAADv4/OJnyc9rLHZs3REU1JWS_cFU6E3YDMBqAACLcB/s320/14021574_10157337653110440_1749269014976977469_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>8.<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> M<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">WELWA "MEL" MUSAMBACINE</span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">DJ</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago, IL</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.twitter.com/akasuba">Twitter page </a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">He's a proud native of <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Zambia</span> with a <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">global outlook on culture.<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Just like his DJ work, Mel know<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">s how to "switch up" his flow to keep up with current trends. </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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</span></span></span></span> <b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">9. MELANIE LOREN</span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Actress</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Chicago, IL</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/melanieloren">Facebook</a> </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">former T<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">V news producer is making waves in the acting world. As the daughter of a prominent <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">church pastor (father) and <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">man<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">agement consultant (mother)</span></span>, she <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">comes from a strong legacy. </span></span> She has app<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">eared on "Chicago PD" <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">and</span></span> will appear on <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">the new <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Fox <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">series, "APB" soon.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gC23PZRfELw/WG8YUSSxqiI/AAAAAAAADwQ/VhpWMrwUS3EK9uZ7rjde_UdScu8JztazgCLcB/s1600/27b3ff8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gC23PZRfELw/WG8YUSSxqiI/AAAAAAAADwQ/VhpWMrwUS3EK9uZ7rjde_UdScu8JztazgCLcB/s1600/27b3ff8.jpg" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">10.</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">DREANA C. JOHNSON</span> (DJ 3Snapz)</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">DJ/ Singer/ Writer</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Chicago, IL</span> </span></span><br />
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</span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dr<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">eana <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">is a proud graduate of "Mizzou" (University of M<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">issouri-Columbia) <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">who gives back to <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">current and future college students in Chicago. When she's not working a 9 to 5, she is pursuing her art as <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">"DJ 3Snapz" and through po<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">etry.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">VAUGHN KIMMONS <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(Brown Alice)</span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Singer/ Artist</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Port<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">land<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, OR</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">From her early days in Chicago, Vaughn always embraced her individuality. Now, she is "Brown Alice", a popular singer in <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">the Pacific Northwest who transcends musical genres. </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">S<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">he definitely gives an "Andra Day" vibe with "Eryka<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">h Badu" tendencies. </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">12. KORTEZ WALKER</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Spoken Word Artist/ Actor</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Indianapolis<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, IN</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">married father of 3 <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">is energetic and insp<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ir<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ing</span>.<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> By day, he works in real estate; a<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ll other times, he works to promote positive images online and at live <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">performances. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For Kortez, Chicago is only a 2 1/2 hour drive away. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">He's <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">in a good position to land the perfect role<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> without taking time away from his day job or his fa<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">mily.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">3</span>. PRO<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">MODAVE <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Photographer</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Chicago, IL</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.promodavephotos.com/"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Website </span></a> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Dave is my younger brother. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(Nothing wrong with a little nepotism).</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> He's a fan<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ta<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">stic photog<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">rapher, with a growing clientele. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">* * *</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">S<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">tay <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">tuned<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> as we honor more people in 2017!</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<br />Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-91525031589112774112016-12-26T17:36:00.000-06:002016-12-26T17:36:23.671-06:00Michael Jackson Fan Strives To Continue His Legacy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2XfYklMN3eQ/T-i1LZIKjyI/AAAAAAAABC0/CHa2VZmqBpg/s1600/303266_10150812655930553_37630578_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2XfYklMN3eQ/T-i1LZIKjyI/AAAAAAAABC0/CHa2VZmqBpg/s320/303266_10150812655930553_37630578_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Jeremy Horn will never forget June 25, 2009. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He was at work when a co-worker told him that his musical idol, Michael Jackson had died. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"I didn't believe it at first," the 26-year-old graphic design intern said. "Then, I borrowed my co-worker's cell phone to browse the Internet and read the horrible news--and I was in a daze." </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Horn immediately headed home and broke down into tears. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">At 6-foot-3, the Park Forest, Illinois resident is expected by some to be more of a Michael Jordan fan than the King of Pop. But Michael Jackson's music had a greater impact on his life than any NBA championship. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a student at Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois, Horn channeled the creative spirit of Jackson as a member of the marching band. And in class, he faced some backlash from classmates for expressing love of his favorite pop star. "Yes, I did get teased a whole lot because of my love for the Jackson Family--but also for defending Michael when he was arrested in 2003 for child molestation charges," he recalls. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">While in high school, Horn had academic challenges to overcome. He was a special education student with learning differences. For him, Michael Jackson's music was a motivating force in staying on the path to graduation in 2003. Five years later, he received a degree from International Academy of Design and Technology. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"He put a spark in me that I can not let labels or the condition I was living in hold me back from accomplishing the bigger things I want in life," Horn explained. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Being the youthful music aficionado that he is, Horn still listens to Michael Jackson's songs on a daily basis and dedicates most of his Facebook and Twitter posts to the pop legend. He says that Grammy-award winning artist made a long-lasting impact in the entertainment industry and must never be forgotten. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"I ask every fan to honor the legacy of Michael Joseph Jackson not only on his birth and death anniversaries but everyday."</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">With this music fan leading the way, the King of Pop will never be dethroned.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">~ Zack A. Isaacs </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt;"> </span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-20622406565161877112016-12-12T18:33:00.000-06:002016-12-26T16:09:34.032-06:00Remembering Mr. Hooper, My Church Musician <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jiBIF0O1WL0/WE8_ubCUafI/AAAAAAAADuA/N3cTDY9lqCAHQoYrVTDMBZYK8Zmsjv7XQCLcB/s1600/704046_170285489784415_2097631052_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jiBIF0O1WL0/WE8_ubCUafI/AAAAAAAADuA/N3cTDY9lqCAHQoYrVTDMBZYK8Zmsjv7XQCLcB/s1600/704046_170285489784415_2097631052_o.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Harold M. Hooper was a musical genius. For 39 years, he served as the Minister of Music at Third Baptist Church of Chicago, a prominent congregation on the city's South Side. During his time, he became known as "Mr. Hooper"-- the man who could get folks in the spirit with his selection of traditional gospel songs.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Last Monday, Mr. Hooper passed away at the age of 74. In a year where my favorite musicians have expired (Prince, Lecresia Campbell, Daryl Coley, and now Joe Ligon), the news of Mr. Hooper's death left me with "the blues". However, my personal memories of his work have served as a postlude. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In 1996, I saw that firsthand as a prospective member of Third Baptist Church. My parents were considering joining, so we started visiting. One thing was for sure: Mr. Hooper could start playing a song and many would erupt in very loud shouts of praise. As a 12-year-old boy at that time, I was startled by the noisy response-- but also intrigued at the gift of the man "on the organ". (Depending on the song, he would also play the piano.) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In the late 1990s, I was a teenager when Mr. Hooper recruited me to sing with the Men's Day choir. I was hesitant at first because I'm not the greatest singer. Yet, Mr. Hooper worked with all of us (ages 15 to 80) to be the best singers possible. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For Mr. Hooper, the music continues in the hearts of his choir members. Now, he's singing a song in Heaven to <u>the one who gave him his gift</u>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">He will be missed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Thursday, December 15, 2016</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">9:30 a.m. - Wake<br />10:30 a.m.- Funeral</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Third Baptist Church of Chicago</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1551 West 95th Street</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Chicago, IL 60643</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(Gatling's Funeral Home is providing funeral services.) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span></span><br />Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-51953628649846399032016-08-31T20:25:00.000-05:002016-12-26T16:09:49.817-06:00Social Media Scoops: EMPIRE Season 3 <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you want the scoop on Empire Season 3 (premiering September 21 at 9/8 Central on FOX), you need to follow the right people on social media.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The legendary (and youthful) <a href="http://www.instagram.com/mario.van.peebles">Mario Van Peebles </a>has been in Chicago for the past 2 weeks to direct a future episode of "Empire". </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L4EJEtkfnTg/V8eCKtc6kZI/AAAAAAAADsE/kRL7cEfA9r8XkDjaUw_3Tg-d4Q1wM9WMwCLcB/s1600/empiretayetarj.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L4EJEtkfnTg/V8eCKtc6kZI/AAAAAAAADsE/kRL7cEfA9r8XkDjaUw_3Tg-d4Q1wM9WMwCLcB/s320/empiretayetarj.png" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">He shared pics of new cast member Taye Diggs with Taraji P. Henson, as well as group selfies with Jussie Smollett and Bryshere "Yazz" Gray. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CYaKCWA2S34/V8eC9G06I5I/AAAAAAAADsM/LxTe3IYXAzEuPc32xy3bXFgsYGvsyN4bACLcB/s1600/empiremvanpeeb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CYaKCWA2S34/V8eC9G06I5I/AAAAAAAADsM/LxTe3IYXAzEuPc32xy3bXFgsYGvsyN4bACLcB/s320/empiremvanpeeb.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In ad<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">dition to that, he had some fun with extras (in the video posted below). </span> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BJvXxxYA-FE/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">#empire</a></div>
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A video posted by Mario Van Peebles (@mario.van.peebles) on <time datetime="2016-08-30T16:50:52+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Aug 30, 2016 at 9:50am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hopefully, Season 3 will be better than Season 2.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Fox executives must focus on the STORY and not demographics. The demographics will come if the story is good. There's no need to create a cheesy season full of episodes catering and pandering to people of color. </span></span><br />
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script> Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-83641460172369095052016-08-05T17:20:00.000-05:002016-12-26T16:10:07.771-06:00#BlackMusicMatters | Kindred The Family Soul's "Legacy of Love" <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EyBMQYvbK1Q/V6UH8gDfceI/AAAAAAAADq0/OLMlC7t83BcM9VXhkuDvKVB_gR_pm_C0gCLcB/s1600/Kindred-the-Family-Soul-Legacy-of-Love-Album-Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EyBMQYvbK1Q/V6UH8gDfceI/AAAAAAAADq0/OLMlC7t83BcM9VXhkuDvKVB_gR_pm_C0gCLcB/s1600/Kindred-the-Family-Soul-Legacy-of-Love-Album-Cover.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the past 2 days, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kindredthefamilysoulfanpage">Kindred The Family Soul</a> has provided Chicago with musical relief. As the city copes with <a href="https://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20160805/south-shore/paul-oneal-video-shocking-disturbing-police-review-authority-says">civil unrest </a>and <a href="http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/chicago-public-schools-to-lay-off-494-teachers/">teacher layoffs</a>, there have been soothing sounds coming from <a href="http://promontorychicago.com/">The Promontory</a> in Hyde Park-- courtesy of the aforementioned singing duo. The Philadelphia-based group is here to promote their latest project, "<a href="https://play.google.com/store/music/album/Kindred_The_Family_Soul_Legacy_of_Love?id=Bixno3xiylzduur5w2q2puepvs4">Legacy of Love</a>". (A project that I have already pre-ordered.)</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VyGasST31uA/V6UPTD1HDiI/AAAAAAAADrE/Tw9SicDyazQ3txO7UfiLRRlBi-0P3praQCLcB/s1600/kindredscr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VyGasST31uA/V6UPTD1HDiI/AAAAAAAADrE/Tw9SicDyazQ3txO7UfiLRRlBi-0P3praQCLcB/s320/kindredscr.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The new project's lead single, "All My People", has powerful lyrics which are very timely and relevant. It's a song about togetherness and unity in a time where people are disagreeing about #BlackLivesMatter and how people should #StayWoke. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the sake of peace, Kindred's vocalists Fatin and Aja use their music to help listeners focus on the big picture: "One Love". </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ta_yvKFGrIY" width="480"></iframe> <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>"Legacy of Love" will be released on Tuesday, August 30, 2016. It is available on </b><a href="http://www.thekultureshop.com/">The Kulture Shop</a>, <b>iTunes, Google Play, and other digital outlets. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-size: large;">[FTC Disclosure: I wrote this blog on my own without any compensation.] </span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-83043087768076629212016-07-22T12:55:00.002-05:002016-12-26T16:10:39.534-06:00From Actor To Journalist, Tom Jay Jones Stays Current<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-amoR_ngnAvw/V5Jd-BeglpI/AAAAAAAADpM/vzXfEEPzf-U32tPKZtea0VnhL_a42Bz1QCLcB/s1600/1917514_209433587641_2421404_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-amoR_ngnAvw/V5Jd-BeglpI/AAAAAAAADpM/vzXfEEPzf-U32tPKZtea0VnhL_a42Bz1QCLcB/s320/1917514_209433587641_2421404_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">For Cleveland native Tom Jay Jones, "all jobs matter". Since 1995, he has been active in the Los Angeles as an actor, volunteer, and fitness coach. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Recently, Jones added a new job to his employment repertoire: independent journalist. A few years ago, he hosted entertainment segments for various production companies. Now, the ball is in his court. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">He's currently working on news segments about police brutality and community activism.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Check out his report below: </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fteejinaction%2Fvideos%2Fvb.683037641%2F10154419811892642%2F%3Ftype%3D3&show_text=0&width=560" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-12333839154754096822016-06-18T16:42:00.003-05:002019-12-26T18:03:04.314-06:00Ronald "Kwesi" Harris, Renowned College Advisor, Dies At 56<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IOllIrAgKy8/V2W2PewwnSI/AAAAAAAADoE/IOFKyhoLwG0Gn-wBOwwBFecx-v3_pTHVACLcB/s1600/kwesiharris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IOllIrAgKy8/V2W2PewwnSI/AAAAAAAADoE/IOFKyhoLwG0Gn-wBOwwBFecx-v3_pTHVACLcB/s320/kwesiharris.jpg" width="275" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">UPDATE: </span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Visitation <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">will be Friday, June 24, 2016 at Leak & Sons Fune<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ral Home <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(184</span></span></span>00 <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">S. Pulaski, Country Club Hills, IL) 6:00 P.M<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to 9:00 P.M.</span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A public memorial will be held Saturday, June 25, 2016 at <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">the Emil and Patricia A. Jones C<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">onvocation Center on the campus of Chicago State University<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. </span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You may enter at 95th and St. Lawrence or 99th and King Drive. </span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">10:<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">0</span>0 A.M. to 1:00 P.<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">M. (Early arrival is encourage<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">d) </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Source: The F<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">amily's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/babakwesironaldharris/">Official </a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/babakwesironaldharris/">Page</a> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span> </span> </span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">He was committed to creating new opportunities for black males on Chicago's South Side.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ronald "Kwesi" Harris, 5<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">6</span>, director of the African-American Male Resource Center at Chicago State University, passed <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">away</span> after a battle with cancer. Known as "Baba Kwesi" to his students, family, and friends, the energetic Harris worked tirelessly to improve academic possibilities for countless men of color. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Born and raised in Chicago, Harris became a successful product of the public school system. He graduated from Simeon Vocational High School in 1977 and completed a Bachelor's degree program at Central State University in 1981. </span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="253" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FqG9v_F5i0A" width="450"></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">(</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ronald "K</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">wesi" </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Harris speaks to 2CN </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">(now Big </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Zack TV) in 2011)</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-suOtJZReiZA/V2W81YaUMBI/AAAAAAAADoU/hwGEzIbQKMYgkgnmmwZMYiNTgGbeCyVeQCLcB/s1600/12742723_10153892230962974_6763732607126113253_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-suOtJZReiZA/V2W81YaUMBI/AAAAAAAADoU/hwGEzIbQKMYgkgnmmwZMYiNTgGbeCyVeQCLcB/s320/12742723_10153892230962974_6763732607126113253_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ayesha Jaco, Lupe Fiasco, and Ronald Kwesi Harris </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Baba K<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">wesi<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">'s w<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ork attracted the attention of big names in entertainment-- including rapper Lupe Fiasco and TV actor John Marshall Jones ("Smart Guy"). In fact, Lupe <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Fi<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">asco dedicated <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-R-_sxP5kCk">lyrics</a> of "Mission"</span> to Baba Kwesi<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> in 2014. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">For this writer, "Baba Kwesi" was an influential source of encouragement. He invited me to film news segments when the university still <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">preferred larger media outlets to film on campus</span>. He would compare <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">my</span> media outlet to "CNN" because he supported <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">young men who dreamed. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What consoles me is that Baba Kwe<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">si <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">changed the world. H<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">e fought to<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> turn his inst<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">itution in<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to "The Chicago S<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">tate University". <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Because of his works, <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">black men with the greatest challenges were able to <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">able to <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">achieve great triumphs. </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Baba Kwesi</span> will be missed. However, his work continues. He planted a seed in so many of his supporters that will grow into fruits of his legacy. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rest well. </span></span><br />
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<br />Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-83625721123789007092016-06-14T19:45:00.000-05:002017-12-29T11:18:16.828-06:00Overlooked Actors, Vol 1: The Cool Guys <span style="font-size: large;">If you're tired of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Kevin Hart, and Steve Harvey starring in every movie or TV show-- you are not alone. There are thousands of overlooked, under appreciated actors who deserve an international spotlight. Unfortunately, the entertainment business has a Catch-22: you need experience to get work but you can't find work without previous experience. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thankfully, I have noticed a few men who found a way around the Catch 22 by creating their own opportunities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">(Don't worry, ladies. I will profile my favorite female actors in the next post.) </span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EzUzynJ8VFM/V2CEi5bxb0I/AAAAAAAADnY/WDjNGB9Qqp0L3sFW0NXx1ABnmjHFtlVeACLcB/s1600/12074832_10153046643565723_3919192486919028014_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EzUzynJ8VFM/V2CEi5bxb0I/AAAAAAAADnY/WDjNGB9Qqp0L3sFW0NXx1ABnmjHFtlVeACLcB/s320/12074832_10153046643565723_3919192486919028014_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">JAS ANDERSON</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(Follow him on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/jasaturservice">Facebook</a>) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Check out his demo reel:</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HDC5bgE8MbU" width="420"></iframe><br />
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</span><span style="font-size: large;">Anderson is one of my favorite "overlooked" actors. I enjoyed his work on the hit web series, "For Colored Boys". From there, he has landed roles on "Law & Order: SVU" , and "Blue Bloods". </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While I dislike seeing him play characters who are always thugs, prisoners, or rappers, I admire his tenacity and stage presence. He delivers great monologues and will eventually land an award-winning role one day. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">SHAUN VAN PRUDE</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(Follow him on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/shaunvanprude">Facebook</a>)</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPTUCbqjTW8/V2CHWcpuJII/AAAAAAAADnk/OhL2kyk2-PQtcwClzSn6Ctz58WGlM84ZgCLcB/s1600/10626535_1469981256589868_8411325251573521887_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPTUCbqjTW8/V2CHWcpuJII/AAAAAAAADnk/OhL2kyk2-PQtcwClzSn6Ctz58WGlM84ZgCLcB/s320/10626535_1469981256589868_8411325251573521887_n.jpg" width="320" /><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">As a product of the U.S. Military, Shaun Van Prude embodies strong values that can help him in other fields-- including acting. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Prude is a versatile actor who can play a variety of roles and works well with directors. Yet, Prude faces the same challenge as Anderson above: the temptation of giving in to "typecasting". Due to his height (6'4) and inner-city background, some casting directors might see him only as a detective or an athlete. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fortunately, he knows how to produce his own YouTube videos and creates his own images. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Check out this monologue that I wrote for him: </span><br />
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</span> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="236" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yw5-ukhZ60o" width="420"></iframe><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">MICHAEL MAPONGA</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(</span><span style="font-size: large;">Follow him on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ActorMichaelMaponga/">Facebook</a></span><span style="font-size: large;">) </span><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Michael Maponga is putting his own twist on "The American Dream". He was born in Zimbabwe but <a href="http://www.fortymagazine.com/career-spotlight-actor-michael-maponga/">grew up</a> in Texas. Now, he is trying to bring the best of both worlds together to reach large audiences. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Maponga's work ethic is incredible. In addition to acting, he is an entrepreneur. His current project, AfroLandTV, is expected to be a Netflix-type entertainment source. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Check out his comedy audition tape below: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stay tuned for Overlooked Actors, Vol 2: Wonderful Women -- a profile of some amazing female actresses. </span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-32173961464293939492016-01-18T12:15:00.000-06:002016-12-26T16:13:48.941-06:00Fantasy Casting | "The Good Times Movie"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sPBAj3n-XO8/Vp0sOyYU0lI/AAAAAAAADj8/cvyyHW_XxRE/s1600/tvmom-floridaevans.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sPBAj3n-XO8/Vp0sOyYU0lI/AAAAAAAADj8/cvyyHW_XxRE/s320/tvmom-floridaevans.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">For years, the concept of a "Good Times" movie was been floating around.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Recently, I have been wondering about who would play the Evans family in the film. If I could cast the film, the following actors would be chosen:</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Uzo Aduba as "Florida Evans"</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ANjpHWJeE6s/Vp0nj0pGjkI/AAAAAAAADjI/MB0VivGCPs0/s1600/uzoflorida.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ANjpHWJeE6s/Vp0nj0pGjkI/AAAAAAAADjI/MB0VivGCPs0/s400/uzoflorida.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Uzo is hot right now. From "Orange Is The New Black" to "The Wiz: Live", the 34-year-old powerhouse has the dramatic range to pull off this role.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Lamonica Garrett as "James Evans"</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cW1iif_cYGs/Vp0oIHQU2dI/AAAAAAAADjQ/VzM1y13U-7g/s1600/jevans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cW1iif_cYGs/Vp0oIHQU2dI/AAAAAAAADjQ/VzM1y13U-7g/s320/jevans.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Currently, Lamonica is the "boyfriend" of Hollywood. He's played the role in "black-ish" and "Mr. Robinson" and he needs an upgrade. As soon as I saw him, I immediately thought of James Evans.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In my movie version, I would imagine the alternative: James returns from Mississippi and surprises his family who thought he was dead. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Marcus Scribner as "Michael Evans"</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ppHUuTXkBvY/Vp0pfOe5KeI/AAAAAAAADjc/1pIsM61pIEI/s1600/scrib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ppHUuTXkBvY/Vp0pfOe5KeI/AAAAAAAADjc/1pIsM61pIEI/s320/scrib.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Marcus is already 5'11 but he could still pull off Michael Evans. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Drew Sidora as "Thelma Evans" </span></b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xxqNIKXGDeo/Vp0qY4k4SMI/AAAAAAAADjo/zlPg1fTxbuA/s1600/drew-sidora-wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xxqNIKXGDeo/Vp0qY4k4SMI/AAAAAAAADjo/zlPg1fTxbuA/s320/drew-sidora-wallpaper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Drew's in her 30s but she's youthful enough to pull of this role. Plus, she is gorgeous. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Jerrod Carmichael as "JJ Evans"</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fh4J_cck6Oo/Vp0q37cLZKI/AAAAAAAADjw/YaNkhg98eXM/s1600/Jerrod-Carmichael.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fh4J_cck6Oo/Vp0q37cLZKI/AAAAAAAADjw/YaNkhg98eXM/s320/Jerrod-Carmichael.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jerrod would definitely be "Dyno-mite" in this role. He's funny and likable on the screen. </span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The "Carmichael Show" star has the comedic timing and confidence to get the job done. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Who are your picks? </span><br />
<br />Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-83237183629952626222016-01-12T19:45:00.000-06:002016-12-26T16:14:35.447-06:00Yazz: Erica Campbell's Surprise Guest At Celebration of Gospel 2016?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugNnJEKGEfk/VpWqI_QD-7I/AAAAAAAADhs/nDePQcfN9eM/s1600/yzzgrt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugNnJEKGEfk/VpWqI_QD-7I/AAAAAAAADhs/nDePQcfN9eM/s320/yzzgrt.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Gospel superstar Erica Campbell ("Mary Mary") is promising a surprise guest to join for her as she performs the hit song, "I Luh God" at BET's Celebration of Gospel 2016.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">My guess is that Yazz The Greatest ("Empire") is the special guest. In the teaser interview, Erica states that her guest is "on a show that everybody likes." In addition to that, I figured out that it could be him due to the seating charts posted on BET's website.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x8ON6e-b8SA/VpWr15czpeI/AAAAAAAADh4/vQWfeXuw4AY/s1600/yzzseat.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x8ON6e-b8SA/VpWr15czpeI/AAAAAAAADh4/vQWfeXuw4AY/s320/yzzseat.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We'll find out if I was right on January 31 at 8 PM/7 PM Central when "Celebration of Gospel" airs. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The popular show is hosted by Yazz's TV mom, Taraji P. Henson.</span><br />
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<div data-freeform-responsive="true">
<iframe allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" height="535" mozallowfullscreen="true" share="BET" src="http://www.bet.com/content/betcom/video/celebrationofgospel/2016/exclusives/erica-campbell-brings-that-new-gospel.share.responsive-true.html" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="100%"></iframe><script src="http://www.bet.com/etc/designs/betcom/js/share.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-52162199034595805502015-11-16T20:05:00.000-06:002016-12-26T16:15:10.528-06:00The "Upfront" Truth About Ad Sales (Big Zack TV Preview)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YrXUX_i32CE/VkqIAhLLjWI/AAAAAAAADfs/ipL3SAdiRLA/s1600/upfronts2016A.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YrXUX_i32CE/VkqIAhLLjWI/AAAAAAAADfs/ipL3SAdiRLA/s640/upfronts2016A.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">As my mentor says often, the <u><i>real</i></u> purpose of television is to sell advertising. I learned that lesson when I worked as a P.A. in ad sales at a major TV network. Three years after being laid off, I still see the real "truth in advertising" and why most networks profit off stereotypes. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In my new TV series, "The Upfronts", I plan to chronicle the misadventures of an African-American ad sales executive who tries to influence better programming-- with disappointing but hilarious results. The show's protagonist, Damien Hartford, is a newly promoted VP of ad sales who gets tired of selling spots on terrible shows. To achieve this goal, he forms an undercover relationship with the VP of Programming-- an African-American woman-- who has no problems with the station's current strategy.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Will Damien succeed? Find out in January 2016 when "The Upfronts" premieres on YouTube and Vimeo. </span></span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-84991584359208058692015-10-26T15:59:00.000-05:002016-12-26T16:15:49.404-06:00Devin S. James "Sells His Soul" (In Book Format) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pOHZUTeHlj8/Vi6Pvxt2ZeI/AAAAAAAADfI/aKNWiocs7LU/s1600/dsjames.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pOHZUTeHlj8/Vi6Pvxt2ZeI/AAAAAAAADfI/aKNWiocs7LU/s320/dsjames.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Devin Sean James has moved on-- figuratively and literally. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Last year, he was known as the spokesperson for Ferguson, Missouri, with a dark <a href="http://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/fired-ferguson-rep-devin-james-public-relations-nightmare">secret</a>; now, he shares secrets to success via LinkedIn and his new <a href="http://www.devinsjames.com/">website</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">His latest post, "<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/tradeshow-tips-part-1-reasons-your-booth-aint-popping-devin-james?trk=hp-feed-article-title-publish">Tradeshow Tips Part 1- Reasons Why Your Booth Ain't Poppin</a>'", gives tips to convention and trade show representatives who find themselves people watching instead of networking. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mr. James' latest project, <a href="http://www.insideferguson.com/">Inside Ferguson: A Voice For The Voiceless</a>, is an exclusive account to what he witnessed during his time in the embattled Midwestern town. For this 33-year-old father of two, it is important to shed light on the injustices that millions of Americans face everyday. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">With all of his knowledge, Mr. James could become a teacher or a politician. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stay tuned.. </span></span><br />
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Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-51533348546608667862015-10-17T19:54:00.003-05:002016-12-26T16:16:16.563-06:00Eat Like Fitness Guru Dolvett Quince!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4BcfaVjDlA/ViLsxu72LJI/AAAAAAAADeo/bwnYN0ZQqHQ/s1600/thrve.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4BcfaVjDlA/ViLsxu72LJI/AAAAAAAADeo/bwnYN0ZQqHQ/s400/thrve.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dolvett Quince has "the juice". </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The popular fitness expert has trained celebrities like Boris Kodjoe and everyday people on NBC's "The Biggest Loser".</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, he's sharing some tips on eating healthy while you pursue your work out goals.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We're not sure of his exact age but he should be in his early 40s-- given the age of his son, Isiah. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Whatever the case may be, he's someone you should and try to emulate in your eating habits.</span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hspb1jES5hc" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-24174629504515863252015-10-14T00:10:00.001-05:002016-12-26T16:16:35.914-06:00Time For A U-Turn: Where "Empire" Went Wrong<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N5O4suZbKkA/Vh3doXuEsiI/AAAAAAAADeQ/vnGdFIyc0rQ/s1600/empirespoof.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N5O4suZbKkA/Vh3doXuEsiI/AAAAAAAADeQ/vnGdFIyc0rQ/s400/empirespoof.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The thrill is gone.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Inflated TV <a href="http://variety.com/2015/tv/news/ratings-empire-down-still-dominates-arrow-premiere-up-1201613460/">ratings</a> aside, Empire fans are not showing love for the Lyon family like they did last season.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In fact, that's where the show went wrong: the "plot twist" of Lucious revealing that he didn't have ALS. From there, the show has been transforming into a cheap gospel stage play. (Cookie is now Karen Clark Sheard; Lucious is Sinbad; and Jamal is one of Steve Harvey's children.) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">All in all, the characters' road map is leading the show down the road to cancellation. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What Can The Writers Do?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">* <b>Beg Fox Executives To Ditch Demographics And Pursue Stories</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Fox executives are busy trying to cater to a multicultural audience instead of tell good stories. I don't watch "Empire" for the diversity; I watch "Empire" for the story of an American family which happens to be diverse.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The celebrity cameos are distracting and the storyline seems disjointed. We are 4 episodes into Season 2 and they are just getting around to Vernon's disappearance? Did Tyler Perry join the writing staff?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">*<b>Lay Back On The Flashbacks </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Too much backstory is not a good story. Writers tend to go off on a tangent instead of dealing with the issues at hand. I don't need to know the family history of mental illness to understand Lucious and Andre's relationship.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Less is more. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">*<b>Be Humble</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Arrogance caused the writing team to lose its mojo. You are only as good as your last show. The writers need to go back to basics and outline a great story. Now, it seems as if they are writing anything to pander to viewers with low intelligence.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Unfortunately, it doesn't take much to entertain people these days. That's why the writers probably won't change. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span> </span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-25876969929741278262015-09-30T20:45:00.000-05:002016-12-26T16:17:09.543-06:00Looking For Work In Chicago? Try These Places <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k20ifNur5mc/VgyPrwglrbI/AAAAAAAADdA/TS98poapVdU/s1600/jobs.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k20ifNur5mc/VgyPrwglrbI/AAAAAAAADdA/TS98poapVdU/s400/jobs.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Contrary to popular belief, you can make it in Chicago! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The job market is fine; job seekers are looking for work in all the wrong places.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you want to find quick employment, try the following options.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW STAFFING</u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Staffing agencies that specialize with conventions and trade shows are the best bets for people looking to secure relatively easy work and solid pay within 3 weeks of sending resumes. <br />(Some exceptions may apply.) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Summer is very slow but the fall, spring, and winter are great times to find consistent work. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago's minimum wage is 10.00/hr for 2015 and will increase in increments until 2019 when it will be 13.00/hr. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">*<b> Convention Connection </b><a href="http://www.conventionconnection.com/">(Website)</a><b><br /></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Kate Zeitvogel, Director of Sales & Staffing</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Technology, Education, Retail focused shows</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">(Occasional medical shows)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Wardrobe: White shirt, Black jacket and pants</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Locations: Hyatt, Swissotel, Sheraton, McCormick Place </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">*<b>Action Figures-Chicago </b>(<a href="http://www.afstaffing.com/chicago.html">Website</a>)<b><br /></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Lori Jaffe, Manager</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Medical and Government focused shows</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Wardrobe: Blue shirt, Black jacket and pants </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Locations: McCormick Place </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">*<b>ShiftGig (</b><a href="http://www.shiftgig.com/">Website</a><b>) </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Eddie Lou, CEO </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Bartenders, servers, brand ambassadors </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Locations: Various </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>EXTRAS CASTING </b></u></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago's TV and film industry is getting stronger every year. Extras can find work quickly without little hassle.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The only items to remember are: 1) Be ON TIME; 2) Bring 3 changes of clothes; 3) Bring 2 forms of ID; and 4) Be patient</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anthony White Casting</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">*Independent films and TV shows</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">("Southside With You", "The Blexicans") </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Joan Philo Casting</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">("Chicago Med"/ "Chicago Fire") </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tail Sticks Casting</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">("Chicago PD) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">(Google these places or find them on Facebook) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Extras casting pays about 80 dollars for 8 hours with time and a half. You can get a pay bump for wardrobe fittings, vehicle uses (25 dollars) and a higher pay grade if you are a stand-in. (Stand-ins are test dummies to help light the scene for actors with similar physical features). </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stand-ins get about 140 a day. But you have to pray that you look like the actor who needs one. It's like playing the lottery.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">FINAL THOUGHTS</span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Native Chicagoans can try Uber as well. I have a few friends who are making big bucks from Uber. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Just steer clear of places like ATN (Across The Nation) Promotions. They offer high paying jobs but take almost 2 months to pay for certain gigs. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-61118858148816454062015-09-02T15:25:00.003-05:002016-12-26T16:17:34.036-06:00Dear Periscope Users: Strategize, Then Monetize! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m4CSNag3T94/VedZg_fwVYI/AAAAAAAADcQ/ioUSPyioaXs/s1600/periscope-logo-1920-800x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m4CSNag3T94/VedZg_fwVYI/AAAAAAAADcQ/ioUSPyioaXs/s320/periscope-logo-1920-800x450.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Before you start that <a href="https://www.periscope.tv/">Periscope</a> account, please read this blog carefully!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Periscope is the latest live streaming video phenomenon. The sleek design and pop-up style chat makes it a great way to interact with current friends and make new ones. In addition to that, the app can help content creators generate buzz and monetize their brands.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately, the average Periscope user is trying to generate attention with pointless streams. Instead of using the app to create amazing contents, most folks stream stupid stuff like picking out outfits, getting ready for bed, and criminal plots. (Yes, two idiots <a href="http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-criminal-activity-broadcast-on-periscope-leads-to-arrest-of-two-20150831-story.html">streamed</a> their plans to commit crimes!) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you want to make money from Periscope, try the following tactics:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">*<b>Plan Your Broadcasts</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It appears to be an obvious statement but very few appear to grasp this concept! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you must do something spur of the moment, turn your Twitter rants into a video discussion. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">*<b>Engage With Your Audience</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Don't just read the comments; use the comments to improve what you do. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">After each broadcast, stay in touch with your viewers and create customized content for their liking. When you build a following, you can merchandise your content (like the Hell To Naw video) or plan meetups at your local coffee shop. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Big Zack TV will be using Periscope soon to create an amazing event that will get media buzz!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stay tuned! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">*<b>Keep It Clean</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">You can partner with businesses by presenting content they can post for a large audience. Try not to use vulgar language if you can help it. You can be funny without cursing. </span></span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-67626606722341123102015-08-29T20:18:00.001-05:002016-12-26T16:18:56.486-06:00Note To Working Actors: Take It; Don't Leave It! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span id="goog_467257026"></span><span id="goog_467257027"></span>As Leith Burke <a href="http://www.zackstv.com/2014/06/tv-star-leith-burke-actors-arent-paid.html">told</a> us before, he's got mouths to feed. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">For over 20 years, Mr. Burke has been a "<a href="http://classicmoviechat.com/whats-a-working-actor/">working actor</a>"; he's not an A-lister who can survive on one project's multi-million dollar earnings for years at a time. Therefore, he uses his versatility as an actor his advantage. He acts in front of a camera for TV and film, behind a microphone for video game characters, and live on stage. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Currently, the youthful Burke is balancing his time as a full-time husband and father with a project dear to his heart: "Citizen: An American Lyric". The new <a href="http://www.fountaintheatre.com/event/citizen-an-american-lyric/">performance</a> --recently extended to September 14 at the Fountain Theatre-- has been gaining rave reviews for being a "provocative mediation on race in America". Written by Claudia Rankine, the show is actually Rankine's poetry/prose project that was adapted for stage by Stephen Sachs. In the age of interactive theater, working actors like Burke must push envelopes further and connect with audiences on a deeper level. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">While Burke's film <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0121772/">projects</a> remain in post-production, he has found a way to stay busy. Unlike actors who gave up on Hollywood, Burke keeps knocking until the door of opportunity opens. He is not picky about roles; he challenges himself to try new things for each project. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Working actors can definitely learn from Burke. In the competitive industry of entertainment, it is important to be versatile, patient, and professional for a long and successful career. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-18302070824216817292015-08-20T22:04:00.001-05:002016-12-26T16:19:19.344-06:00Brian J. White Joins The Cast of "Chicago Fire" <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Before the days of Instagram and Facebook, new cast members were typically held "under wraps". Now, fans can get peeks of #SetLife by following their favorite stars on social media.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Actor Brian J. White ("Scandal") is now on the hit NBC show "Chicago Fire". While his IMDB page lacks updates, Deadline Hollywood <a href="http://deadline.com/2015/07/chicago-fire-brian-white-recurring-captain-season-4-1201485916/">reports</a> that he will play a recurring character named "Capt. Dallas Patterson". </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chicago Fire returns on October 13. </span></span> Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812501957035932290.post-64304523452646076242015-08-17T19:31:00.000-05:002016-12-26T16:18:05.396-06:00 Straight Outta Compton 's Real MVPs? (The Marketing Team) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I1WUSJMc4Ro/VdJ4sjJDEcI/AAAAAAAADac/NwJAfG_PTXo/s1600/nwa-movie.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I1WUSJMc4Ro/VdJ4sjJDEcI/AAAAAAAADac/NwJAfG_PTXo/s400/nwa-movie.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">After <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2015/08/16/media/straight-outta-compton-box-office/index.html">making</a> $60 million in its first weekend, <i>Straight Outta Compton</i> is America's "surprise" summer hit. For me, the most surprising thing is that critics are ignoring what really buoyed the film's success: a spectacular integrated marketing campaign.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I know integrated marketing very well; I have a Master's degree in the field. From what I've learned so far, integration is the only way to promote a brand. If the messages become inconsistent, consumers get confused and disinterested. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">To the benefit of this film, the heads of marketing and publicity worked together. All promotions of this film--from television interviews to the hugely successful <a href="http://www.straightouttasomewhere.com/">Straight Outta Somewhere</a> meme generator-- gave "one voice" to this film. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In addition to that, the <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2015/08/11/straight-outta-somewhere-is-brilliant-straight-outta-compton-marketing/">interactive</a> aspect of the meme generator allowed users to engage in "subliminal" marketing. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Simply put, the film's marketing team consisted of the viewers. While cutting marketing expenses, they boosted revenue. (More money and less expenses equals HUGE profits). </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Let's just hope that fans don't take a page from the Ice Cube playbook and try to seek "lost wages". :) </span></span>Zack Raspberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06585542662992539123noreply@blogger.com0