Black Pearls Magazine is a free digital magazine committed to inspire, encourage and empower a
International group of readers.
Our mission is to provide information that is essential, enlightening and entertaining.
Every issue of this monthly published magazine will celebrate the accomplishments of authors and writers from around the globe, honoring proud traditions and spotlighting ways to enhance the reader's everyday life.
The information that we publish helps to empower our BPM readers, therefore enriching their lives and benefiting the communities in which they live. We believe in Giving the Gift of
Knowledge!
We are here to bring you those literary jewels, Black Pearls, that are sure to bring you and your love ones much pleasure and empowerment.
Share this publication with your network and Give the Gift of Knowledge too!
Book
lovers join us on Monday and Wednesday nights for the most stimulating
conversation on the planet. Meet new authors, hear the latest literary news and
fellowship with other book lovers! Call into the literary themed radio show at 646. 200.0402 for a chance to
win the featured book. Chatroom open to all.
"Making
a way out of no way" is the lifestyle attitude that Ivory Tabb lives by
everyday. From negotiating million dollar contracts to planning high profile
celebrity events, Ivory has successfully thrust her way to the top of the
entertainment arena as a successful talent agent, TV personality and much more.
She has worked with some of today’s biggest entertainers and athletes
including Adrian Peterson, Deion Sanders, Shaquille O’Neal, Tony Romo, Brian
McKnight, Michael Phelps and Chris Paul.
Growing
up in
New Jersey, Ivory knew that she would have a successful career in sports and
entertainment. After graduating near the top of her high school class, Ivory
accepted a track scholarship to Louisiana State University (LSU) and excelled in
a multitude of student activities while obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in
Kinesiology. Upon graduation, she continued her education receiving a Masters of
Arts degree while working as an academic counselor for the school’s freshmen
football players.
After
leaving LSU, Ivory was pursued by Southern University for the position of
athletics academic advisor. "Ms. Tabb" thrived and consistently
brought fresh ideas and innovative processes to the institution. After one year
in this position, Ivory accepted another challenge and became Southern’s new
assistant women's basketball coach. Though she had never played a game of
basketball in her life, Ivory approached this new venture ferociously and
developed the team’s first branding strategy by creating marketing efforts and
promotions that popularized and populated the women's basketball games. It was
also during this time that Ivory began developing relationships with well-known
entertainers by negotiating special performances and appearances at the school.
Throughout
the years, Ivory has continued to help guide the professional sports careers of
several prominent athletes, including Stromile Swift, Michael Clayton, Marcus
Spears and Jamarcus Russell. These professional athletes, in particular,
specifically recognized her ambitions and recruited Ivory to serve as their
manager once professionally drafted. Ivory has also booked and managed
appearances for many entertainment marketing agencies, as well as AT&T and
State Farm.
Today,
Ivory is the entertainment industry’s most sought after executive and
personality. Only Ivory can see the world like she does…and it’s time for
everyone to hear IT and see IT! She recently participated as a contestant on
VH1’s hit reality show I Want to Work for Diddy 2, vying for the once in a
lifetime opportunity to work for Hip Hop hit maker and businessman
extraordinaire Sean “Diddy” Combs. Her appearance on the show further
propelled this exuberant personality into the spotlight, making her a powerful
force. With charm, beauty and fierce business savvy, Ivory is taking over and
giving the world a Piece of Ivory along the way.
Piece of Ivory
Book Reviews
Beautiful Ugly
by Shelia E. Lipsey
In Beautiful Ugly, we walk with Envy, Layla and Kacia as they show us what it means to have an unbreakable bond. This story reveals that, even through trials and tribulations, what we need most are each other and faith.
Envy is a gorgeous woman who, from the outside looking in, has it all together. She has a great job, nice home and plenty of money in the bank to provide for herself – better than any man could. But what others don’t know is that she’s living a life full of secrets. One of those secrets is so heavy that is keeps her tossing and turning all night.
With an angelic voice that soothes her soul and those within her church’s congregation, Layla’s bout with obesity has her settling and believing that just any man will do. That, coupled with terribly low self esteem, causes her to find comfort in food and a man that she knows is no good. But, when she is in a terrible accident, she begins a path of self discovery and realizes that she is worth far more than she ever believed, or could have imagined.
Kacia has been dealing with a physically crippling disease her entire life. Unfortunately for her, she believes that every man who takes pity on her loves her. This untruth has resulted in six children with six different men. Kacia believes that the tables have turned and that the Lord has finally blessed her with a God-fearing man to call her own. We soon learn that she will do anything to keep him.
This book is an eye-opening read that will show you that, through both good and bad times, true friends and the Lord will help you navigate all of life’s ups and downs. I recommend this book to anyone knows about experiencing pain and coming out victorious in the end.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
ISBN-10: 1601629974
ISBN-13: 978-1601629975
Karma by Tash Hawthorne
A beautiful, street-savvy woman named Karma is hell bent on finding her mother’s abusive boyfriend. The one who murdered her.
Karma is so angry, hurt, and determined that she’s willing to do whatever it takes to carry out this task. Nothing can stop her or stand in her way. That is, until she crosses paths with Money Parks, one of Newark's finest men in blue.
Many hidden truths begin to surface as Karma sets out on her journey to avenge the death of her mother, who was her best friend and strongest supporter. As Karma and her cousin, Indigo, come up with a plan to help bring the killer out of hiding, Karma must decided if it is worth it. She finds that handling her mother’s business, while staying focused on her relationships with her dad and Money are proving difficult.
This is a great, fast-paced read that will leave readers guessing about how it will all turn out. I recommend Karma for those who like books with all types of surprises along the way, up until the very last page.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
ISBN-10: 0981854508
ISBN-13: 978-0981854502
Cheetah by Missy Jackson
Fast money and fast times – what happens when it all falls down?
Cheetah and her best bud, Naj, rule Newark's vicious drug trade with an iron fist. When Cheetah is brutally attacked, she vows revenge on those responsible and whoever left her for dead.
After her release from the hospital and recovery, it’s time for her and Naj to get back in the game and on top, by any means necessary. Cheetah sees this as a chance to rob everybody and get money quickly.
With a burgeoning love in the mix, and a new crew and another trusty sidekick, Radee, doing major deals and making big money off of her scandalous scheme, things are getting messy. People finding out the culprit behind the recent string of Newark drug dealer robberies and flipping product won’t be hard.
This book is one that will keep you interested and on the hook to find out if all good things eventually do come to an end. It’s a fast, entertaining read that I finished in one sitting. I recommend Cheetah because it is full of surprises and mystery. Like many, Cheetah wants what’s best for her crew, but knows that the walls will have to come tumbling down soon.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
ISBN-10: 0981854559
ISBN-13: 978-0981854557
The Buzz by Stefanie Newell
From the looks of things, Ebony Jenkins has it all. She’s a fabulous stylist and entrepreneur with her own shop, lives in a nice house and drives a luxury car, and has a wonderful daughter with a great man. Her man,
Buzz, is an up-and-coming rapper and producer.
Ebony is a woman-on-the-go who spends long hours at her shop, but she gets very bored at night while waiting for Buzz to come home from the studio. So she fills that empty time by browsing Internet gossip sites and posting lies and rumors about celebrities with her best friend Trina, who co-signs her every word. This obsession with pop culture is fueled by the fact that, as a child, she and her family didn't have much. So, now, as an adult she refuses to allow her child to go through the same things she did.
Ebony’s consumption with the lives of others and intrigue with spreading lies on the Internet has caused her to be ignorant to the fact that her own life is falling apart right before her. So, when a new up-and-coming R&B artist Arika hits the scene, Ebony is determined to ruin this young star’s reputation. Why? Because she believes that she is Buzz’s mistress.
Her memories of being impoverished keep her determined to put a stop to anybody and anything that she feels is standing in her way of achieving the "perfect life." Ebony wants the good life so bad that she can't see that she has made it on her own right.
This book was a great read, especially since I know all about blogging and online message boards. I would definitely recommend The Buzz to anyone who is into pop culture and is thoroughly amused by it. The Buzz is fast-paced and offers the reminder to not throw stones if you live in a glass house.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
ISBN-10: 0982148402
ISBN-13: 978-0982148402
How to Kill Your Husband by Keith Thomas Walker
If you found out your husband of 16 years was cheating on you and living a double life, would your thoughts lead you to ponder revenge?
In How To Kill Your Husband by Keith Thomas Walker, this question is answered with a slow, well thought out plan. When devoted, loving and seemingly vanilla wife Clair Hudgens finds out that her cheating husband has another family that he is taking care of in addition to the one she has with him, seeking revenge becomes her priority.
However, with three children to care for, she is hesitant to react with her cohorts Melanie – her crazy friend – and Becky, her newly-divorced colleague. But as the details and lies begin to fall into place, Clair decides to get in gear and devise a plan-of-action that she hopes will serve as the ultimate revenge. With the help of her new divorce lawyer, Trevor, she not only gets mad – she gets even.
This book is a great story that offers readers a chance to see Clair’s metamorphosis from a boring and blind house wife, into a take charge, stand up and be noticed kind of woman. She gave up her hopes and dreams to follow her husband, the man she loved, and his army career, only to be slapped in the face by his lies and adultery. Clair decides that she will not be made a fool of another day of her life.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
ISBN-10: 1585714216
ISBN-13: 978-1585714216
Black Like Me by Shelia E. Lipsey
Remember the famous slogan,
I’m Black and I’m Proud? I grew up chanting these infamous words as a teenager and through my young adulthood. For me, it meant pride in my race, my color, my nationality. It stood for strength and courage to persevere through some of life’s most difficult times as a black person. It meant having an attitude that would overcome the spirit of segregation, bigotry and racism.
Say it loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud.
Today, I want to sing at the top of the rafters and proclaim these words again to our youth, to those who don’t know anything about the struggle that were endured so that we can enjoy the opportunities we have today as a people. I want to somehow convince our young men and women that we are unique, divine, and special. We are victors and not victims. What will it take for us to stop black on black crime? What can we who know the struggle, who’ve lived the history of our people, do to help make a difference that will leave an indelible mark on our young people?
When will we learn more about our history and the importance of supporting and encouraging one another? There comes a time when enough is enough. This is the beginning of a new decade. Let us reach out to embrace one another rather than murder and maim each other. It’s time to change from gangs to help each other gain.
We need more James Baldwin in the world today. James Baldwin (Aug. 2, 1924 - Dec. 1, 1987) was a very important American author who wrote about the struggle of being black in America. James was the oldest of nine children and was born into poverty in Harlem, New York.
We need to encourage our youth to use their minds to invent again, like Sarah Goode. Goode invented the folding cabinet bed, a space-saver that folded up against the wall into a cabinet. When folded up, it could be used as a desk, complete with compartments for stationery and writing supplies. Goode owned a furniture store in Chicago, Illinois, and invented the bed for people living in small apartments. Goode's patent was the first one obtained by an African-American woman inventor (approved on July 14, 1885).
http://www.npr.org
We need more youth aspiring to be like Maggie Walker. Maggie Lena Walker (July 15, 1867 - December 15, 1934) was the first woman in the USA to become a local bank president. Throughout her life, Walker worked for civil rights and other humanitarian causes.
http://www.npr.org
It’s time for our young people to put down weapons of destruction and began to build mental weapons of knowledge to improve life for themselves and others. We need more great novelists like New Hampshire indentured servant-turned-novelist Harriet Wilson who wrote Our Nig: or, Sketches from the Life of a Free Black more than a century ago. Wilson’s work is the first known publication by an African American.
http://www.npr.org
The time is now. It’s a new decade. It’s time to make a positive difference. It’s time to bring dreams from the realm of thoughts to the realm of reality. It’s time to become proud of who we are as a people again. With the first Black president in office, and black people holding higher positions and obtaining greatness, there should be a greater sense of urgency to turn things around for the good. It’s time to believe and achieve. It’s time to rise and shine and proudly proclaim that we are Black and Proud. Let me hear you say it.
Say it loud: I’m Black and I’m Proud!
MY WRITING GETS NO ATTENTION
by author/poet Marc Lacy
No attention? I know this is not coming from you because your friends and family are ecstatic at the fact that you’ve written a book and are a published author. Your former high school English instructor and her current writer’s guild have been following you as you’ve become versed in article publishing and blogging. Meanwhile, your name has a certain “buzz” attached to it via the internet and your popularity has been increasing gradually.
You recently found out a New York Times Best-Selling author has acquired a copy of your monthly e-newsletter and now wants to keep in touch with you. Things seem to be going very well. Fruits of your hard literary labor have become manifest at a quicker rate than your reading radar could have ever forecasted. You now feel
“all things literary” while promises from your prose passion seem to be fulfilled generating a smile on your face. You’re saying to yourself how easy you could get accustomed to
“this literary thing.”
Several months later, you reach a lull and all the writing (no pun) on your publishing wall leads to the fact that the honeymoon is over! No longer are you a fresh and new face in the game. The initial buzz people acquired from meeting you and reading your material for the first time exists no more. You feel like calling Dr. Phil because you’ve been a victim of a “one write stand.” The book review, tour stop inquiries, and interview requests have waned. Your
Amazon sales have dried up and you’ve exhausted all of your local contacts by which a booksigning or discussion could be scheduled. Your publishing bank account has been emptied, shaken, and turned upside down for loose change.
But the only thing that falls out is a note that reads, “I need money.” At this point you are frustrated because everywhere you go, people are asking, “hey man, how’s the writing going?” Then while you’re in Wal-Mart shopping, the proverbial “Didn’t you write a book or something?” will most definitely be asked…even if it is six months after the release. You’ve reached a place where you just want to toss your pen and pad into the river and call it a career.
Go ahead and react the ways in which you want to react. But after the feelings wear off, make sure you leave the door cracked enough for common sense to seep back in. After it settles into your head, you’ll soon realize…it just “seems” as if your writing gets no attention because you are not getting the reaction now that was received months ago when your book first came out. Hello! Welcome to the life of a writer/author. One of these days you’ll realize that there is a difference between “inside the literary circle” and “outside the literary circle.” If someone is outside of the circle, they may know of one or two household names as far as authors and writers are concerned…but that’s it.
However, with brand-new to mid-level authors (via popularity standards), it is almost a guarantee that the person will not be familiar with that author’s work. That is just how the cookie crumbles in the literary community. And if this fact alone depresses you, you may as well write your eulogy, climb into the wooden box, and just wait on the funeral. Keep in mind, some friends inquire about how your writing is going because they are genuinely happy for you. Do not expect them to know the nuances of what you do (unless you take time to break everything down). All they know is, “My boy gotta book and I’m happy for him. He’s successful…and I want to say I knew him when…” All of that is fine and dandy. Just remember, it is not up to them to know all of what you know about your career.
Writing can be a glamorous profession in some cases; but 90 percent of writers will tell you; there’s nothing glamorous about it. Factor in the business and political aspects and you’ve got yourself a crazy grind. But still, you must find a way to get past the various elements that govern/control the writing/authoring “business.” Understand the God given gift that allows you to put a “spin” on your writing belongs to you. God gave this to you. This is what should bring you joy. Then when another person gains some form of uplift or is impacted in a positive way…and let’s you know…THAT IS YOUR REWARD. That is all of the attention you need to stay influenced to keep churning out books/articles. Remember, your literary creative genius in a published format, may not yield an immediate financial return on investment.
Also, you may never be able to sell everyone inside/outside the literary circle on your writing; because EVERYONE IS NOT A WRITER. With that being the case, they may not be able to appreciate what you go through to be able to do what you do. Regardless of how anyone reacts, your passion is what drives you. If you are applying the level of passion needed daily in your writing; trust me, your writing will get all of the attention it needs and then some. It may not be today or tomorrow. But when it is time…IT’S TIME. I can’t wait to see you there!
About the Author
Marc Lacy, a graduate of Alabama A&M University is a nationally renown, award winning poet/author and spoken word artist. He has performed all of over the country for many national literary events and spoken word venues. Marc is the author of Rock & Fire - Love Poetry from The Core, and The Looking Heart - Poetic Expressions from Within. He is also the producer of
REFlux, RTIQLation, and LyriCode 256 spoken word CDs.
Marc is the contributor to many anthologies such as: The Soul of a Man, Step up to The
Mic, and Witness the Truth. Marc is a member of ArtNSoul Society of Expression, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Church Street
CPCA, Huntsville Literary Association, and National Society of Black Engineers. He credits his faith in God and love of family for providing energy to succeed.
This is a true story. Don’t you hate it when people start with that? However, I must say this because what I am about to tell you is amazing. But it is believable if you believe that God can use anything, any situation or any circumstance to speak to us. Well, this particular day about 4 weeks ago I was enjoying a nice spring day during the weekend. I decided to repots some plants and a couple of rose bushes. I was very excited about doing this because like my Mother, I love flowers, plants, gardens and it is one of my favorite leisurely pastimes.
As I proceeded on my deck, all my gear in check, I encountered a bumble bee. I’d seen the bumble bee or a bumble bee that always hung around my deck. I always ignored the bumble bee because it did not seem to pose a threat. I would go to another area of the deck and swing or sit down and enjoy the outdoors. Occasionally, it would flutter over toward me and I’d swat at it and it would flutter back to “his side of the deck”. Well, this particular day, Mr. Bumble bee was center stage, fluttering in mid air. I stood and looked at it through the glass door. I didn’t give much thought to him because like before he didn’t pose a threat. I assumed it would be like any other time, I’d go to my area and he would stay in his. I proceeded out the door and he did not move. I stopped in my tracks and lightly swatted at it. He kind of fluttered away and came right back; center stage. I tried to ignore him and started to re-pot a plant. He began to buzz around me as if I was on his turf. I took the paper page that was wrapped around the bottom of the pot and swung at him. He still lingered and buzzed around me. I began to think that he might sting me, so I began to swing a little harder. This went on for about 10 minutes or so. I was actually having a fight with a bumble bee and on my own turf. I thought this is ridiculous; you don’t pay any bills around here (one of my favorite things to tell our 16 year old from time to time). After about 10 or 15 more minutes I figured that the paper bag wasn’t going to work. I went inside and glared at the bumble bee through the door. I was really agitated. As I glared at him through the door I thought these insects are getting bolder and bolder these days.
I decided that I would just re-pot the plant inside, by the door. As I was trying to pour the dirt in the pot I glanced to see if Mr. Bee was still there, I accidently stumbled, spilling potting soil on the floor and against the base board. I had made a big mess and was very irritated by now. I was ready to get rid of him for good. I decided to get the broom. I had gotten a little afraid of the bumble bee and his boldness so I cracked the screen door and swung at the bumble bee. He still held his stance. This went on for about 30 minutes. I went inside and repotted the rose bush and watched the bee lingering around in mid air. After I re-potted the plant I cracked the screen door and swung at him so that I could put the plant outside on the deck. When I swung he fluttered away. I picked up the plant, ran out on the deck, sat the plant down and started to run back in the house. I turned around to look behind me and there he was dead in pursuit of me as if to say, “You better get back in the house.” I stood there watching in disbelief thinking, “What in the world?”
Suddenly, it dawned on me that I was fighting with all my might to no avail. I was exhausted, frustrated and felt defeated and obviously it was a fight that I wasn’t going to win because I was using the wrong weapon! What I needed was some insect killer. I began to think about how sometimes we fight the enemy with all our strength, our might, our will power, all our mind power, all our determination and still lose the battle every time. That spoke to my heart in volumes. God’s word is the weapon we should use to defeat the enemy. No matter what we are going through or what we are fighting or what the conflict is or what the enemy is trying to do, we need to use the right weapon. When our backs are against the wall we can come out swinging. Throwing a right (I let the peace of God rule in my heart, I refuse to worry about anything (Col 3:15)) and then a left (Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)) and then an upper cut (Satan the Lord rebuke thee) and get a TKO every time. When we know the Word we are in authority over the enemy because the word tells us that we have authority and power over the enemy. God’s Word is the right weapon to defeat the attacks of the enemy.
And as far as Mr. Bumble Bee, I got into my car, went to Home Depot, purchased some insect killer and took care of him. To my amazement he was still there. My first attempt to spray him was through the screen door but that didn’t work. It just left residue on the screen. I knew I had to face him head on. I eased out the door, but this time I boldly took my stance. I was assured that I had the right weapon and began to spray away. I had to spray him several times but needless to say, I repotted all my flowers in peace and I haven’t seen a bumble bee since. I am sure at some point I might see another one, but next time I will use the right weapon and save myself a lot of grief. And yes, this should be in Ripley’s believe it or not!
“Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you (Luke 10:19).” That authority and power is the Word of God.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Author Rhonda K. Herring is releasing her new book, Ever Changing. She gives a bold account of spiritual development and growth that led her to look within herself for the strength and courage to make a difference in her life and in others. Her journey takes her readers from childhood, to adulthood, to purpose.
Rhonda Herring lives in northern Virginia and is a Senior Program Analyst for the Department of Defense. She has been with the Department of Defense for more than twenty-two years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
Ever Changing is the story of how one woman submitted herself to God’s will and how He sustained her in her darkest moments. She describes the intimate details of her relationship with God and how He transformed her life. Based on the beloved “Serenity Prayer” that was instilled in the author as a young child. How she learned the true meaning of the prayer and how it sustained her through her trials and tribulations. She finds the courage to change the things she can and the “wisdom” to know the difference.
Ever Changing was written for those who do not understand why they are going through difficult times and experiencing constant changes in their lives. It is for those who are seeking the wisdom to identify the things they can change and to be wise enough to leave those things they can not change to God. This testimony teaches self-acceptance, acceptance of others and the acceptance of change with the understanding that unless God sails the ship we are afloat.
Ever Changing: Inside Outward by Rhonda K. Herring
Author's Website: http://www.e-rhonda.net
ISBN-10: 1581693095 | ISBN-13: 978-1581693096
Religion - Inspirational/Spirituality | Christian Life - Spiritual Growth
WTH:
What's Right has Become Wrong!
Nanette Buchanan
Just
Venting …… What's right has become wrong. What's wrong
is now accepted and is now right. These words were a part of a daily message I had sent to me by Pastor Renee
Glover. I have become anxious daily looking for her scripture and
interpretation. These words stung. As she went on to explain I
understood her words as I looked at my surroundings. I had to agree I was
guilty of not looking in the mirror.
We (as people of the world) have grown to accept whatever is done
and in some cases make provisions for it. The passage started with the
smallest thought our children. We allow them to talk to adults, elderly,
teachers, even us as parents as though they are in charge of our homes, their
schools, the streets, communities and their history. The absence of
respect and morals is now an acceptance. “That's how they are today.”
The excuse becomes “They'll change when they get older.” We accept
parents’ lax responsibility for raising their children. Family Services
removes the child from the home, or ignores the family until some tragic event
occurs. The parent is not forced to be a parent, and they continue to have
children that they leave with family or society to raise. We accept their
absence, its okay. The lack of a nurturing family is accepted yet again.
We've become a society of violence. It's conceivable to hear of
domestic abuse, violence, murder on a daily basis. Is this becoming the
norm? Neighborhoods are riddled with daily acts of violence.
Children are being killed and it's just another number for the statistical
polls. We harbor the wrongs of our friends and family. We spend the
money of the street, it's the times. There's no employment, so the money
that comes from the addict, the trick turned out, will have to provide for the
family. What is wrong has become right. Or so it seems…
We've come to know, turning the cheek also turns our eyes from what is in
front of us. "It doesn't affect us; we've moved to another neighbor,
another class of people, we don't live among THEM. " It's a shame but
what can we do?
Recession
has knocked on our doors. Every family has been affected in all
neighborhoods. Violence and drugs has crept in all our children's lives,
directly or indirectly. Domestic violence, disrespect, the lack of morals
has crept in our homes. What's right has become wrong. What's wrong
we've accepted and now it is our way of life. We did this, as a home, a
community, a nation.
A
Black President! We've got our eyes open now. He'll fix this
mess that we allowed. He'll bring us through this recession, bring the
boys home from war, find Osama, lower the taxes, put the money in the economy,
solve the employment crisis, stop the violence, improve the education, take the
crooks out of politics, in four years. Barrack Obama, yes we can.
We've put our food on his plate, told him to eat, enjoy, digest and wait for the
next helping. What's right will not return to us in four years. Yes
we can. What's wrong we've accepted and now is right; Change must come!
That was his outcry, his
campaign slogan. We took it and we must embrace it. Not just for the
nation or our communities but for our homes, ourselves.
It's
a New Year and a new decade. A new day dawning; a new time for all of
us; another chance to correct our wrongs and make them right. It starts
with each of us. Change starts within…Just Venting.
About
Author Nanette Buchanan
Nanette M. Buchanan was
born, raised and educated in
Newark
,
New Jersey
. After graduating from
Arts
High School
in
Newark
she attended
Rutgers
University
in
New Brunswick
,
New Jersey
. It was then that she first set her pen to pad, written expressions of her love
for poetry. She is a proud mother, wife and grandmother, now residing in
Somerset
,
New Jersey
. Nanette is employed with the State of
New Jersey
within the Department of Corrections. This dynamic author is looking forward to
making writing a full time career after retiring from her current position with
the State of
New Jersey
. The author is available for personal appearances, chats and signings.
Her pad to pen accomplishments include three volumes of poetry; Thoughts,
Thoughts & Reflections, and Quiet Times; five children stories and seven
novels. Nanette’s first published work and debut novel was “Family
Secrets…Lies & Alibis.” Since then the publication of the sequel,
“A Different Kind of Love” and the release of her first volume of poetry,
“Thoughts” an e-book hit the market. In October of 2009, Nanette’s
murder mystery, “Bruised Love” was released. It is her goal to become
a successful author without limits. Writing and producing plays that
feature her poems as well as adaptations of her novels on the “big screen.”
Nanette
is a member of Shared Thoughts Book Club and Authors Supporting Authors.
She is the hostess of ASA’s Blog Talk Internet Radio Show which broadcasts
each month interviewing authors, discussing literary events, publications and
book promotions.
Do you know your Family’s Composition?It was immediately after the sensational “Roots” saga and “The Next Generation” by Alex Haley that many of our families began to embrace the concept of family unity. The family no matter what the composition was celebrated. The history of the blood lines of families became important. We all wanted to know who we belonged to. Who were are
family members? Family trees found new roots and new branches.
The family events, and reunions, though remembered as momentous caused eyebrows to rise and whispers among the elders. There was always the question about the identity of a child or the whereabouts of a missing parent. All talk was kept secret, and only those who needed to know did know. There were families that avoided the whispers and sent the unwed pregnant girl south leaving the baby with relatives after birth. Others found it necessary to turn a blind eye to adulterous acts.
Today we face the same secrets with “baby mama drama” and dead beat dads or moms, single parenting still exists. Adoption, which causes instant separation for some father’s, has been replaced by women who hold their children hostage when the father won’t pay support or is unwilling to commit to a relationship.
As parents we owe our children the connection; a connection to each parent, sibling and family.
In today’s world it is the necessary balance for their foundation; who they are and who they belong to holds answers to who they will be.
Family medical history, both physical and mental becomes unbalanced. It rocks the emotional stability of a child who has no idea about their connection to their parent, their siblings or their heritage.
My debut novel “Family Secrets Lies and Alibi’s” covers this topic adding the drama and suspense that entraps the reader as reality sets in. It could be any family you know, have heard of or belong to. Do the whispers of long held secrets destroy a family? What if the secret of lineage was buried with a parent uncovered by the business one leaves behind, a will an estate? Should you hide who you love?
• What if the truth could rattle the roots of the family tree?
• Is the love for family stronger than the love for self?
The Secrets continue in … “A Different Kind of Love”
I look forward to building a relationship with you. I am available for author's chat and signings, a discussion with me and giveaways. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments, concerns, or suggestions. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, about booking arrangements, or networking opportunities feel free to contact me at
ipendesigns@gmail.com
About the Author
Nanette M. Buchanan was born, raised and educated in Newark, New Jersey. After graduating from Arts High School in Newark she attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. It was then that she first set her pen to pad, written expressions of her love for poetry. She is a proud mother, wife and grandmother, now residing in Somerset, New Jersey.
Her pad to pen accomplishments include three volumes of poetry; Thoughts, Thoughts & Reflections, and Quiet Times; five children stories and seven novels. Nanette’s first published work and debut novel was “Family Secrets….Lies & Alibis. ”
Since then the publication of the sequel, “A Different Kind of Love” and the release of her first volume of poetry, “Thoughts” an e-book hit the market. In October of 2009, Nanette’s murder mystery, “Bruised Love” was released. It is her goal to become a successful author without limits. The author is available for personal appearances, chats and signings.
Books by Author Nanette M. Buchanan
• Bruised Love
• A Different Kind of Love
• Family Secrets, Lies & Alibis
Even so, there are those of us who hunger for good Black literature.
A while back, I read a report stating that, as African Americans, we are the only people in the world that other countries and nationalities like to imitate—from our fashion, to our speech, to our music, to our sports, and now, even to our literature.
My question is this: Why shouldn’t we own where we dominate? Why shouldn’t we own our own sport teams? Our own Black films, to name a few?
Which brings me to this point. Why is it that we don’t own the black book industry now that we’re making inroads? Is it because we don’t have enough publishers? Literary agents? And why are we allowing other cultures to determine the image of what we send out to the world in our literature?
In the same manner that the Big 5 publishers in New York gained wealth over the past 100 years, I believe African American publishers can gain economic empowerment and wealth as well.
I recently interviewed an author who left a major New York publishing house to return to self-publishing because she refused to fill her books with sex and drama. I read a lot of books, including white literature, and I do not see other ethnic books filled with sensationalism. Why should our craft be lessened?
In the past our image has been set by what we read in the white text books, the white newspapers, or saw on TV. In the main, Blacks were not the decision makers.
Sadly, our image is out of shape because we are not the ones who shaped it. But, in this day and age, where we finally have a role in shaping our image, we often project only the most abject parts of our culture. We see this played out in the insidious influences found in the videos, songs and books, denigrating women, glorifying crime, and pushing genocide.
In order for us to set the record straight for the world, it is important that we write and tell our story. It’s going to take African American writers to reshape our image. Why?
We do not own Black Television, and most of our black radios have died out in recent history.
Besides the Internet, the only avenue we have to raise our voices is what we write and what our black newspapers write about us.
What is our black media is going to do to counteract the forces which have misshaped our history?
It is important that we hold writers, newspapers, and any form of media that project the image of black people accountable for what they project.
In order for us to save our people, we must change our image. If we won’t, then who will? If not now, then when?
For it’s not too late to pick up the pen. To rephrase the late Renaissance writer,
composer, photographer, film director, Gordon Parks, let’s use our pen as our weapon of choice, and turn this image around.
Meet the Author:
Dr. Maxine E. Thompson is a novelist, poet, columnist, short story writer, book reviewer, an editor, ghostwriter, Internet Radio Show Host, and a Literary Agent. She is the author of The Ebony Tree, No Pockets in a Shroud, A Place Called Home (A Short Story Collection), The Hush Hush Secrets of Writing Fiction That Sell, a contributor to bestselling anthologies Secret Lovers, All in The Family, and Never Knew Love Like This Before, (Also a Kindle Bestseller), Proverbs for the People.
ARE YOU STEPPING OUT ON FAITH WITH YOUR WRITING
by Marc Lacy
It is so funny how some people make a big to do about the fact that they decided to step out on faith and write full time. But what they failed to mention, is the fact that their spouse is making $300,000 a year. With that being the case, not only are the ends meeting – they’re colliding! So technically, this is not stepping out on faith. This is what you call stepping out on knowing you will have funds. Not that there is anything wrong with that. But when you actually decide to step out faith, make sure you step out on faith, and not stupid. Remember, just because it worked for someone else, does not guarantee that it will work for you. There is a “chance” that it will work for you. Everyone’s situation is different. There are different forces and different factors that help nudge the landscape of how things play out in your literary life.
Before you tell your boss to “take this job and shove it” make sure that you have a solid foundation in place to provide the support you need as you take your literary endeavor to another level. For instance, when someone is a full-time writer, it does not necessarily equate to them only writing and collecting a royalty check while living happily ever after. Now some people have paid their dues and have experienced the bumps and bruises that come with authorship…so they have basically earned the right to do the aforementioned. However, the percentage is very small. With that being said, there are various components that you could put into play to assist your fulltime writer aspiration.
Alongside writing and publishing books, you could actually make a living conducting workshops, engaging in public speaking, and writing copy for various companies. These are just a few of the ways you could sustain yourself financially while developing all aspects of your full time writing career. Money certainly is not the only important thing here; but you need it to live. You also need funding to nurture the development of your writing in every phase applicable. There is nothing like earning a living while developing essential skills within your craft.
Remember, there is no such thing as an overnight rockstar author. This is a big misconception. Yes, we are living in a literary age and yes just about “everyone” is publishing books and writing now. Some are actually making a good buck in the literary industry. There are some hot topics out here in our crazy world and people are taking advantage of human attraction to crazy, shocking, and alluring stories and subject matter. Trends and fads are two major factors that are heavy influences within several industries, especially fashion, music and literature. Unfortunately a trend goes out as quickly as it comes in. Like an aggressive stock, there is potential for quick and extreme success as well as quick and extreme failure. You cannot be angry with someone for taking advantage of a trend because they are just giving the people what they want right?
The industry is wide open and if some just want to make that paper, then so be it. Do not waste any of your time and energy downing them if that is their focus. None of us are the law in terms of literary genres, so we cannot drag anybody to trial for capitalizing on their rights for creative expression. However, you are encouraged to put yourself in a position to where trends and fads will impact; but not control your writing. In essence, if you focus on good writing and improving the quality of your writing, you will establish “staying power” in the literary world. Your writing will be so solid that people will be able to enjoy it down the line as we incur various phases and changes within overall writing styles and subject matter that people are attracted to.
Finally, if you step out on faith in your literary career, quality writing should be your main focus. Every step you take and every breath you make should illustrate your hunger for improved writing. If you conduct writing workshops, not only will you help others with their writing, you are also helping yourself. Should you engage in public speaking, it should be a reflection of how serious you are about writing. When you land that contract to write copy for a company, it would be yet another tool in the chest to assist you with high quality writing. Your literary shoes should be so big, that absolutely no one can fill them. Step out, and step high!
About the Author
Marc Lacy, a graduate of Alabama A&M University is a nationally renown, award winning poet/author and spoken word artist. He has performed all of over the country for many national literary events and spoken word venues. Marc is the author of Rock & Fire - Love Poetry from The Core, and The Looking Heart - Poetic Expressions from Within. He is also the producer of REFlux, RTIQLation, and LyriCode 256 spoken word CDs. Marc is the contributor to many anthologies such as: The Soul of a Man, Step up to The Mic, and Witness the Truth.
Marc is a member of ArtNSoul Society of Expression, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Church Street CPCA, Huntsville Literary Association, and National Society of Black Engineers. He credits his faith in God and love of family for providing energy to succeed.
Share
with us your news, events and articles. Black
Pearls Magazine is a online, bi-weekly updated magazine which gives voice to
the issues that drive our national conversation. Our readership is thoughtful,
intelligent, widely read and appreciative of ideas and writing of the highest
quality. With that in mind, we seek thoughtful, well-researched articles and
insightful fiction, book reviews and poetry on a variety of subjects from a
number of different viewpoints. We welcome all writers to send their work!
If
you would like to submit articles for the Black Pearls Magazine, please check
out our editorial calendar and send in your stories or articles by the 15th of
each month.. You can write about any topics designated for that month. Read the submission
guidelines here.
Your
submissions to EDC Creations signifies that you agree to our terms and policies.
We also accept book excerpts, reader's guides and audio interviews.
Join
Our Mobile Book Club Receive
a monthly text message when Black Pearls Magazine has new contests for book
lovers, news of hot topics and has updated the list of featured authors
and books for the
month. Stay abreast of the events we are attending so that you can come
join us for great gifts and swag bags!
Seeking Book Reviewers EDC
Creations seeks to add avid readers to our community as book reviewers. We would
like readers to share their honest opinions about the books they read. You do
not have to be a professional writer, we want to feel your passion for reading.
Reviewers receive books from EDC Creations’ publishing partners monthly.
You can review our policy for book reviewers by
clicking here. Email Ella Curry for more details at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
---
Seeking
Book Club Interviews Ella
Curry and EDC Creations celebrates the rise of book clubs in the publishing
industry. We host monthly tributes and parties for our featured book clubs. You
too can become a Black Pearls Bookclub Star! Request that your book club obtain
a interview and receive a gift bag of books!
Your book club and network of friends are invited to check all the great authors
in the Bookclub Reading Room and to explore
the magazine for your next featured book of the month. Email Ella Curry for more
details or to request the interview questions at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
---
Skype
and BPM Video Chat We
host bi-weekly Skype and BPM video chat sessions to introduce authors to our
readers. Do you want an author to visit with you and your friends without
leaving home? Add us as a friend at Skype and you can join the fun. If you would
like to be invited to our BPM Meet the Authors Video Segments,
sign up here.
Skype ID: [ edc1creations]
Join
Skype to get Video Messages from Ella Curry and featured authors. Add me
to your Skype friend list. Also, send me your Skype address so that I can add
you too! Email your Skype ID to: edc_dg@yahoo.com
so that we can email you a friend request on Skype
---
Seeking
Blog Tour Hosts
and Radio Hosts Each
month EDC Creations hosts a tour of 5 wonderful authors. We travel across the
web sharing our message of Give the Gift of Knowledge. We are now seeking
bloggers, book clubs and book lovers to host the authors on their websites,
blogs or radio shows. If you would like to feature authors on your website or
blog, we provide all the material for you. It's as simple as emailing us your
interest.
We
will hold live readings weekly and would like for readers to share the news on
Twitter, Facebook and Myspace. Gather 5 or more friends and meet us for an
online party! We promote great books via the phone, Skype and the web. Great
benefits available for tour hosts. Email Ella Curry for more details on joining
the tours at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
Please take a moment to view our previous tour
hosts here.
---
Business
Interviews Requested Do
you have a great business that serves our community? Tell Black Pearls Magazine
about it! We are seeking community leader interviews. We showcase 5 business
owners per month. Email Ella Curry for more details at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
The
Black Pearls Magazine family wants to take the time to thank each of you for
joining us monthly in celebrating the best in literature and the arts. Our
team of writers, bookclubs and authors are so humbled that you have allowed us
entrance into your life. It amazes me each month as I check our subscribers how
many of you deem us worthy of your time and support.
We
appreciate each of you for telling 10 people about the magazine and for driving
people to this site. YOU make Black Pearls the magnificent publication that it
is, by sharing the gift of knowledge!
Please
know, as we prepare each issue for you, we look for those stimulating
conversations, the most thought provoking articles and most of all the best
books on the shelves. We want each page of this magazine to add value to your
lives! Your comments and feedback are welcomed. Join our
blog and share your news, advice and wisdom with the other readers. Tell us
what you want to read too!
As we take off in this new decade we hope to bring you more provocative topics
and life empowering books to shape your lives. We have contest for the readers
and more interactive sections added to the magazine. Let us know what you think
of the fresh new content by emailing
us here. Thank you!
Ella Curry, President of EDC Creations
Founder & Editor In Chief Black Pearls Magazine
Do you know your Family’s Composition? It was immediately after the sensational “Roots” saga and “The Next Generation” by Alex Haley that many of our families began to embrace the concept of family unity. The family no matter what the composition was celebrated. The history of the blood lines of families became important. We all wanted to know who we belonged to. Who were are
family members? Family trees found new roots and new branches. 
"Making
a way out of no way" is the lifestyle attitude that Ivory Tabb lives by
everyday. From negotiating million dollar contracts to planning high profile
celebrity events, Ivory has successfully thrust her way to the top of the
entertainment arena as a successful talent agent, TV personality and much more.
She has worked with some of today’s biggest entertainers and athletes
including Adrian Peterson, Deion Sanders, Shaquille O’Neal, Tony Romo, Brian
McKnight, Michael Phelps and Chris Paul. 
Beautiful Ugly
by Shelia E. Lipsey 
Karma by Tash Hawthorne
Cheetah by Missy Jackson
The Buzz by Stefanie Newell
How to Kill Your Husband by Keith Thomas Walker
No attention? I know this is not coming from you because your friends and family are ecstatic at the fact that you’ve written a book and are a published author. Your former high school English instructor and her current writer’s guild have been following you as you’ve become versed in article publishing and blogging. Meanwhile, your name has a certain “buzz” attached to it via the internet and your popularity has been increasing gradually.
About
Author Nanette Buchanan
Share
with us your news, events and articles.
The
Black Pearls Magazine 