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Seahawks D’ Stuffs Manning…

Posted on: February 3rd, 2014 by tommyj

 

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP)   —
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Waiting to get their hands on the Lombardi Trophy, the Seahawks were surrounded by security guards in orange jackets. It was the first time anyone in that color stopped them all night.

The Seahawks stayed true to their mantra to make each day a championship day. They made Super Bowl Sunday the best day of all with one of the greatest performances in an NFL title game – sparked by a defense that ranks among the best ever.

The Seahawks won their first Super Bowl crown by punishing Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos 43-8. That masterful defense, the NFL’s stingiest, never let the five-time MVP get going, disarming the highest-scoring offense in league history.

“The only way we could say we were the best defense was to take down the best offense,” linebacker Bobby Wagner said.

Seattle (16-3) was too quick, too physical and just too good for Denver. What was hyped as a classic matchup between an unstoppable offense and a miserly defense turned into a rout.

“We’ve been relentless all season,” quarterback Russell Wilson said. “Having that mentality of having a championship day every day. At the end of the day, you want to play your best football and that is what we did today.”

Punctuating Seattle’s dominance were a 69-yard interception return touchdown by linebacker Malcolm Smith to make it 22-0, and Percy Harvin’s sensational 87-yard kickoff return to open the second half.

“I always imagined myself making great plays,” said Smith, the game’s MVP. “Never thought about being the MVP.”

When the Seahawks, up by 29 points, forced a Denver punt early in the third quarter, the 12th Man – and there were legions of them in MetLife Stadium – began chanting “L-O-B, L-O-B.”

As in Legion of Boom, the Seahawks’ hard-hitting secondary, part of a young team with an average age of 26 years, 138 days.

“This is an amazing team. Took us four years to get to this point, but they never have taken a step sideways,” coach Pete Carroll said. “These guys would not take anything but winning this ballgame.”

The loss by the Broncos again raised questions about Manning’s ability to win the biggest games. He is 11-12 in the postseason, 1-2 in Super Bowls. After the game, he brushed off questions about his legacy.

“Certainly to finish this way is very disappointing. It’s not an easy pill to swallow,” said Manning, who threw for a record 55 touchdowns in 2013, two years after missing an entire season because of neck surgeries. “I don’t know if you ever really get over it.”

He never looked comfortable against a defense some will begin comparing to the 1985 Bears and 2000 Ravens – other NFL champions who had runaway Super Bowl victories.

Seattle forced four turnovers; Denver had 26 all season.

All-Pro cornerback Richard Sherman left with a high ankle sprain in the fourth quarter. He celebrated on crutches.

“I hope we etched our names in the history books,” Sherman said.

Wilson, who has an NFL-record 28 wins in his first two pro seasons, including playoffs, had a 23-yard TD pass to Jermaine Kearse late in the third quarter to make it 36-0.

Wilson also hit Doug Baldwin for a 10-yard score in the final period in what had become one of the most lopsided Super Bowls. For the fifth time in six meetings between the NFL’s No. 1 offense and defense, the D dominated.

“It’s all about making history,” All-Pro safety Earl Thomas said. “This was a dominant performance from top to bottom.”

Denver fell to 2-5 in Super Bowls, and by the end many of Manning’s passes resembled the “ducks” Sherman said the All-Pro quarterback sometimes threw.

The victory was particularly sweet for Carroll, fired in 1994 by the Jets. He led the Patriots for three seasons and again was canned. After a short stint out of coaching, he took over at Southern California and won two national titles.

But he always felt there was unfinished business in the NFL. Carroll finished that business by lifting the Vince Lombardi Trophy, four years after taking charge in Seattle and eight years after the Seahawks lost in their only previous Super Bowl to Pittsburgh.

No Super Bowl had been played outdoors in a cold-weather city – not that the Big Apple was anything close to frozen Sunday, when it was 49 degrees at kickoff.

Things went sour for Manning and the Broncos from the very first scrimmage play, and by halftime they were down 22-0 – their biggest deficit of the season and the only time they didn’t score in a half.

On that first play, Manning stepped up toward the line just as center Manny Ramirez snapped the ball. It flew past his incredulous quarterback into the end zone, where Knowshon Moreno dived on it for a safety.

A mere 12 seconds in, Seattle led 2-0 with the quickest score in Super Bowl history, beating Chicago’s Devin Hester’s kickoff return to open the 2007 game – against Manning’s Colts.

That one ended much better for Manning as Indianapolis won the championship. This one was a fiasco throughout.

Steven Hauschka made 31- and 33-yard field goals for 8-0. Then the Seahawks began scoring touchdowns.

Manning’s third-down pass to Julius Thomas sailed way too high and directly to safety Kam Chancellor, giving the Seahawks the ball at Denver’s 37. A third-down pass interference call on Tony Carter brought Seattle to the 1, and Marshawn Lynch scored to make it 15-0.

Then Smith made his second huge play in two weeks. His interception clinched the NFC championship win over San Francisco.

Cliff Avril got to Manning’s arm as he was throwing, the ball fluttered directly to Smith, who took off down the left sideline for a 69-yard interception TD.

Manning trudged to the sideline, a look of disgust on his face, Denver’s reputation as an unstoppable force erased.

 

Quality…Snubbed at the Grammy’s

Posted on: January 29th, 2014 by tommyj

The 2014 Grammy’s are over and in the history books…all 4 hours of TV time and who knows how many off camera hours.  What was aired for the TV viewers was predetermined and planned based on what the TV executives perceived to get the best “Ratings” and capture a desired audience for the advertisers.  The winners were all known well in advance, the performers were all mic’ed,  sound checked and the presenters all had their skits and tele-prompters  cued up.

But for some reason this did not have the same luster and feel of Grammy’s past.  Yes, the show is long, and your favorite artist may not have performed but the produced portion of the show seemed to not carry a musical feel.  It had a feel of just catering to the “SHOW” elements of the broadcast and not give the audience great musical performances.  We all have that one year, that one, show, that one performance that stays resonant in our memory.  I can recall two, Prince’s performance with Beyonce and Mary J. Blige. I recall watching Mary perform “No More Drama” and after her performance, looking at how spent she was giving her all in just that one song.  But the most vivid memory was looking at the audience of her peers faces, eyes and emotions when the song was done.  Nelly Furtado looked like a groupie that just watched the Beatles singing “She Loves You” Yeah, Yeah, Yeah for the first time. Bono was so impressed that he asked her to collaborate on a song and show. One member in the elite seats asked” Does she perform like this all the time?” Seeing is believing. Can you say she caught the Holy Ghost and took it to Church?

Lip sinking has become the norm in live shows. Granted, it is a made for TV show now, but the premise of the Grammy’s has always been about the best music of the year and the history of music past.  In trying to squeeze in the best show possible in the allotted time and please the advertisers, the show producers must make a decision on what to air and what to make mention of.  There are always those categories that are mentioned during the aired segment of the broadcast such as best producer of a children’s cartoon, best commercial jingle, best violin solo or cello solo…you get the point.  The Merritt Awards honors artists and legends of the industry.  One of this years recipients, The Isley Brothers did receive their name recognition during the broadcast, but to have been in the industry for over 40 years, and still performing to sold out crowds, to not have them take center stage on the live broadcast could be seen as a snub to the R&B industry.  Their sound, songs and history over the decades have influenced every genre of popular music today.  “Shout” was recorded in the late 50’s and is still a cult classic at any arena or big audience event.

The+Isley+Brothers+Isley+Brothers++picture1++bettLincoln Heights, Ohio (1954 – present)

The Isley Brothers are a highly influential, successful and long-running American music group consisting of different line-ups of six brothers, and a brother-in-law, Chris Jasper. The founding members were O’Kelly Isley, Jr. (1937 – 1986), Rudolph Isley, Ronald Isley and Vernon Isley (1942–1955). They are the only act to have at least one Hot 100 hit in each of six consecutive decades: the 1950’s, 1960’s, 1970’s, 1980’s, 1990’s, and 2000’s. The Isleys (as they are commonly called) were inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.

Still relevant today and going strong, Ronnie Isley, the remaining brother of the group, should have had a spotlight during the live broadcast and stage time on air.  With R&B giving way to and POP Music being the genre receiving the spotlight, Soul Music and the legends, as well as the Neo Soul artists have been struggling to gain their share of the main stream media spotlight and marketing dollars from the big labels. The Isley Brothers legendary sound and songs have touched every generation.  Their history and songs warrant more than just a mention on the live broadcast.  Watching the Isley Brothers in concert is a treat for the audience. They perform not to the show, they perform to entertain the crowd without all the lights, pyrotechnics and video feeds.  No lip Sinking to a track…they are performers and that is what most concert goers are lacking in shows today…live and broadcast.  If you happen to see a concert listing of a show including or headlined by The Isley Brothers, it will remind you of what music, LIVE MUSIC, is all about.  Coming in February, The Image Of Magazine will begin listing artist’s upcoming shows and concerts in 2014.  And you can be sure the Isley Brothers will be on that list.

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From Inspired:  January 31, 2014

 

Happy Founders Day Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.

Posted on: January 5th, 2014 by tommyj

william_randy_bates_jr William “Randy” Bates, Jr., Esq.
Grand Polemarch

founders1 Elder Watson Diggs; John Milton Lee; Byron Kenneth Armstrong; Guy Levis Grant; Ezra Dee Alexander; Henry Tourner Asher; Marcus Peter Blakemore; Paul Waymond Caine; Edward Giles Irvin and George Wesley Edmonds.

It was the vision of these astute men that enabled them in the school year 1910 – 11, more specifically the night of January 5, 1911, on the campus of Indiana University at Bloomington, Indiana, to sow the seed of a fraternal tree whose fruit is available to, and now enjoyed by, college men everywhere, regardless of their color, religion or national origin. It is a fact of which KAPPA ALPHA PSI is justly proud that the Constitution has never contained any clause which either excluded or suggested the exclusion of a man from membership merely because of his color, creed, or national origin. The Constitution of KAPPA ALPHA PSI is predicated upon, and dedicated to, the principles of achievement through a truly democratic Fraternity.

Chartered and incorporated originally under the laws of the State of Indiana as Kappa Alpha1911kappaalphanu Nu on May 15, 1911, the name was changed to KAPPA ALPHA PSI on a resolution offered and adopted at the Grand Chapter in December 1914. This change became effective April 15, 1915, on a proclamation by the then Grand Polemarch, Elder Watson Diggs. Thus, the name acquired a distinctive Greek letter symbol and KAPPA ALPHA PSI thereby became a Greek letter Fraternity in every sense of the designation.

From its inception, and for the next six years, Brother Diggs served as the Grand Polemarch of KAPPA ALPHA PSI Fraternity. Through his leadership and indefatigable application, augmented by the efforts of B.K. Armstrong, and John M. Lee, who comprised the remainder of the original Grand Board of Directors, the infant Fraternity was guided through the most perilous years of its life. Accordingly, much of the credit for the organization’s survival through this period is shared by these three men.

From its inception, every endeavor was directed toward establishing the Fraternity upon a strong foundation before embarking on plans of expansion. By the end of the first year, working together, Diggs and Armstrong had completed the ritual and had commenced work on the coat of arms. Work on the latter was completed during the following summer by Diggs, Armstrong and Lee while they were pursuing employment at a hotel in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

In selecting a suitable motto, Diggs, Armstrong and Lee solicited the aid of a Professor of Greek Art at Indiana Technical College at Fort Wayne, Indiana. Having adopted a motto which mutually suited them, they carried a sketch of the coat of arms to a commercial engraver in Fort Wayne, from which he made the first metal plate.

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Kappa Alpha Psi

For years, in order to safeguard the ritualistic secrets of the Fraternity, Diggs laboriously typed and bound the rituals. It was not until he moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where he met an old German printer in whom he had confidence, that he entrusted the esoteric materials of the Fraternity to a commercial printer.

In the spring of 1912 Diggs wrote in a little blue examination book the first Constitution, which was adopted in 1920 with but a few revisions. This edition remained in use until 1926 when it was supplanted by the codified edition jointly written by Diggs, J. Ernest Wilkins, and W. Ellis Stewart. In 1957 the Constitution again underwent major revision.

Now substantially established and provided with a Constitution, Ritual, coat of arms, motto, and guiding hand in a dynamic Grand Chapter, the Fraternity was ready for expansion. In the summer of 1912 Diggs visited the University of Illinois at Urbana, Illinois, where he met Earl B. Dickerson, President of the Old “Illini Club.” This club constituted the nucleus of the University of Illinois Chapter, the Beta, which was chartered on February 8, 1913. Gamma Chapter (later changed to Indianapolis Alumni Chapter) was established on December 29, 1913, followed by the establishment of Delta Chapter at the University of Iowa, on March 7, 1914. The latter was subsequently changed to Gamma Chapter, and the designation of Delta assigned to the Wilberforce University Chapter at Wilberforce, Ohio. Epsilon Chapter, Lincoln University, Pennsylvania, was established December 4, 1915, as the first chapter in the East. Elder W. Diggs journeyed from Indiana to give this chapter his personal and official installation, recognition and blessing.

Thus ended the infancy of KAPPA ALPHA PSI, whereupon the Fraternity embarked upon an era of expansion. Except for the years of World War I and II, when several Grand Chapter meetings were suspended, KAPPA ALPHA PSI has grown and prevailed with unabating impetus.

KAPPA ALPHA PSI Fraternity, relatively early, envisioned the modified attitudes of college administrators and administrations regarding certain frivolous activities previously identified with Greek letter organizations; and it initiated appropriate changes. Among the early changes brought about was the banning of paddling and other forms of physical abuse, and the introduction of constructive endeavors during pledgeship and probation. To date, KAPPA ALPHA PSI Fraternity is organizationally and administratively mature. It moves steadily toward a tomorrow of promise, productivity and influence.

Taken from:
“A SHORT CHRONICLE OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY”

The Fraternity is still alive and strong today.  There is a bond that last a life time in the men of Kappa Alpha Psi , as well as the commitment to giving back to the community. Unlike most black fraternities and sororities that were established on Historically Black Colleges,

Kappa Beta Chapter - University of Memphis

Kappa Beta Chapter – University of Memphis

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity was founded on a predominately all white campus in its day.  That helped create the comradery within the fraternity , whether it is at a step show or national Conclave, brings Kappa Men together as brothers and leaders of their community.  The advantage of knowing you have a brother in the bond, anywhere in the country, that you can call to find connections or fraternize, has been instilled within the fraternity since its inception and is a trait that still exist today.  You are a member for life in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, from a transition from undergraduate on campus life, through your graduate and alumni activities, into you professional career,  A Kappa Man has a deep rooted history in our Fraternal Bond.

 
Tommy Jennings
Publisher – The Image Of Magazine
Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity
Since Saturday December 17, 1983 3:47:42PM

 

 

 

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Art San Diego 2013

Posted on: December 13th, 2013 by tommyj

 

Contemporary Art Fair By: Jacqueline Penhosphoto

photo 3Hundreds of artists and exhibitors, Art San Diego an Art lovers dream come true. Artists, Parties, Exhibitors, Art Labs, Talks and Events. Writing about an Art show rarely gives the experience justice, however I will do my best to provide a virtual journey. San Diego is one of the most diverse cities in the country, but it’s not just geographic diversity that makes us unique. For example, the artists in San Diego bring about their own culture with a splash of love, light and hope. For example, such local artists as, “James T. Hubbell, Ingrid Groce, Raul Guerrero! Roberto Salas, and Margaret Noble demonstrate a huge artistic range.

There were eight Art labs curated by local entities, mostly academic. Among them this year are the Museum of photographic Arts, the Oceanside Museum of Art, the San Diego Mesa College Art department, the new school of architecture, and the San Diego Museum of Art. There were furniture designers, Art galleries, multimedia projects and interactive exhibits. During our time, we had the opportunity to meet artists from Mexico City, Atlanta, Georgia and a few from our own backyard.

“This year’s theme, [ COLLIDE ] lived up to its name – with numerous fantastic creative collisions occurring at the fair. One attendee described it as a “living environment” of creativity. Highlights included an exhibition featuring the sculpture work of James Watts juxtaposed against a 50’ long mural by Japanese artist Shinichi Sugimoto “City of Gravity” – a stunning pairing; a large exhibition of rare, newly discovered photographs from Robert Mapplethorpe, THE AGENCY – 1983, his first fashion photography commission in NYC; and The Salon Project: paintings by Raul Guerrero featuring portraits of of John Baldessari, Robert Matheny and Erika Torri.”

“Performance highlights included a piece by performance artist Avery Lawrence entitled “Mowing the Lawn” – which became a media favorite during the week with front page stories in City Beat, Pacific San Diego and Riviera Magazine. The Art Lab designed by the New School of Architecture Students from the Alpha Rho Chi, andphoto 4 their dynamic and movable designs for the fair’s center lounge, was also a huge success. The Silent Disco event took on a life of its own with headset – wearing music lovers roaming the fair orchestrated by the music of DubLab choreographing flash mob scenes at random times throughout the evening. Art Talk with rock photography icon Henry Diltz attracted hundreds of rapt listeners.”

I love when ideas come to life, the phrase “from concept to completion” creates a whole new meaning when we are able to see someone’s visualization in Art. I’m a lover of many things, but nothing makes me smile like an abstract piece, a painting, sculpture, poem, or art in motion, best known as live Art. Attending Art SD 2013 reminded me of the true beauty behind each artists passion, knowledge, and personal purpose.

Enjoy the eclectic review of the energy one can look forward to when they attend Art SD next year.

photo 1  photo 5

It’s Time to “Exhale”

Posted on: November 21st, 2013 by tommyj

Exhale Premium Cigar and Events

Thanksgiving Cigar & Dinner

bcard-meze-frontThe quaint boutique restaurant known simply as Meze was the meeting place for the first Exhale Premium Cigar and Events meet up.  Geared towards the cigar aficionado and those who love pairing sophisticated drinks with exotic foods, Exhale Premium Cigar and Events was designed to bring together a few friends, as well as enjoy the company and surroundings of the Gaslamp Quarters.  It accomplished that and more.  With San Diego known for having some of the best cigar lounges in the country, more than a few friends attended the first gathering at Meze.  The guys known as Big Tony, Downtown Bobby and Corey put this event together because of their love for cigars and their long standing affinity of downtown San Diego. Relax folks, they’re just regular guys.  With the few friends they invited to EPCE, the word got out and the crowd camecognac.  Those looking for great aromatic flavored cigars got 2 stix from one of San Diego’s notable cigar lounges.  Those coming for drinks and libations were treated with samples of some great martini’s, well drinks and wine selections.  And the cuisine from the kitchen of Meze Greek Fusion was definitely the pallet pleaser of the night.  The food selections were as authentic Mediterranean as being in city of Santorini.

Monday November 25, the second installment of EPCE “Thanksgiving Cigar & Dinner” will be held again at Meze, hosted by NFL great Vincie Glenn ( San Diego Chargers, Minnesota Vikings) and a few of his friends.  Those that know Vincie know that he is a cigar connoisseur, but getting him to take time from his travels on the golf course is a feat within itself.  Specialty drinks, 2 complimentary cigars from Racine & Laramie, one of San Diego oldest and notable cigar shops located in Old Town is only the topper.  The food pairing presented buffet style, will again blend perfectly into the start of a festive Thanksgiving week.

MezeBillBobbyTristanMissy21-1024x682The night is not just another guys night out, hoping pretty ladies would by chance come and join them. The ladies that came were not there just as eye candy.  They were aficionados of the smooth spirits, foods and stogies, but also assured that that last back glance in the mirror stated “Damn…even I would want to date me”.   San Diego has had many  cigar clubs, dining clubs and wine and spirits clubs, but none have been able to put them all together as did the guys from Exhale Premium Cigars and Events.  The events will be scheduled monthly at various locations throughout San Diego in 2014, but Meze   in the Gaslamp seems to hold its own in hosting the night.  They added their own sensual flair with an exotic belly dance that made the smoke stand still before it evaporated into the air.  The music pairing of Jazz keeps the mood light but at times make you wanna move a thing or two.  With Missy Anderson unique style of Jazzy Blues and Sacha performing the rhymetic beats of Latin Jazz, the live entertainment for a  Monday night will match any Friday or Saturday night club.  This night life event will become one of San Diego’s notable destinations in 2014.

Meze Greek Fusion Restaurant, opened over a year ago by brothers Patrick & Raymond Davoudi, is known for their culinary excellence, enlivening atmosphere, and world-class service. Cuisineth for the evening will be provided buffet style with a variety of options. Live entertainment will be provided by Grammy nominated Sacha Boutros, and the renowned vocal artist Missy Andersen. There will be a Cigar Art Auction, featuring two local San Diego Artists. Your reservation includes two Premium Cigars, a drink, and a delicious meal, a great place to net-work, and a memory to last a lifetime.

 

Priority Reservations are $40.00 per individual.

Reservations are filling up fast! Click below to place your reservation now!

ExhalePremiumCigarsandEvents.com

So ladies, before all the stuffing sets in from the holiday feasting and the battle ground at the malls on Black Friday commence at midnight…guys before you’ve been simplified as just a reindeer leading the the shopping sleigh or just an arm for shopping bags to rest on, take some time to for yourself…who knows when you’ll get a chance to sit back and Exhale.

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Come Exhale With Us

Sponsors:

Meze – Racine & Laramie Limited – Famous Vodka –  Pura Vida Tequila – Magnifico Gironata  Evol – koo koo Liqueur – Boondock Brothers – City Cruiser San Diego

HAFU: The Mixed-Race Experience in Japan

Posted on: November 17th, 2013 by tommyj

HAFU: The Mixed-Race Experience in Japan
By: Jacqueline Penhosphoto

Hafu1Mixed, Bi-racial, multicultural, mixed breed, mulatto, mestizo/a, HAFU: These are just a few of the terms most people who are more than one race have been called or must hear on a daily basis. If I have to answer the question, “what are you mixed with? One more time I’m going to scream from the top of my lungs. The interracial experience has been an adventure the past 20 years of my life. Watching HAFU hit home with me, the journey was deliciously enlightening and heart rending at the same time. A must watch for any one who is blended or wishes to understand the mixed-race experience. Definitely worth taking a mental and visual journey at the next showing. Its not everyday a film touches your core in a therapeutic and holistic way. Growing up mixed, being pressured to choose one nationality, culture, and race has been second nature to my daily repertoire.

These are some of the similarities many of the HAFU’s experienced in the film. HAFU, a film about being/having mixed roots in Japan. Being bi-racial, Multi-racial, or multicultural can be stressful in any country or society. HAFU presents the mixed factor in an a organically genius documentary, sharing the stories of 5 HAFU’s living in Japan. Do we need to be categorized? HAFU seeks to answer this question, and many important ones similar to it, as it proudly displays the new wave of multicultural families in Japan. As, I mentioned the term “hafu” literally means “half”- this term has both negative and positive connotations in Japan. Similar to the word mulatto or mixed breed in the United States. The film shows how mixed race people living in Japan not only long to be acknowledged, but accepted and understood. “Directors Megumi Nishikura and Lara Perez Tagaki, HAFU’s themselves, present five intimate stories featuring people whose ethnicity and nationality are called into question every day of their lives.”

The film was presented at the Asian Film Festival 2013, in San Diego, Ca. There’s David a 28-year-oldHafu3 who’s lived in Japan nearly his entire life and is now looking to give back to his mothers village in Ghana (David’s father is Japanese). Or 9-year-old Alex, who leaves Japan to live with his mothers family in Mexico after traumatically being bullied for being different (Mexican and Japanese). Then there’s Sophia who lived in Australia her entire life, but comes to Japan to learn about the language and culture she barely knows. HAFU opens a dialogue about what it means to live in an increasingly global world and accepting our differences. It is my hope that times are changing and that people see, that, Diversity rocks!

Deebone Productions Presents…

Posted on: November 12th, 2013 by tommyj

Welcome to Deebone Productions

Deebone founded Deebone Productions in October 2003. The intent was to produce affordable and entertaining productions including plays, spoken word, comedy, talent and variety shows. The first show, a spoken-word concert called “Spoken Expressions”, produced in January 2004 was a sell-out. Because of the success, “Spoken Expression II” and “Spoken Expressions – The Show” were produced the following February and March. In April 2004, Deebone produced “My Father, My Father,” a play written by her client. The play received overwhelming positive comments from nine Community Actor Judges. The Judges described “My Father, My Father” as excellent, captivating, magnificent, profound, moving, awesome, professional, outstanding, superb, superior, extremely emotional incredible and done-perfectly. It were these comments which led Deebone Productions to receive the Aubrey Judge’s Award on behalf of actors and director. Other shows produced include a fashion dinner auction show, musical revenue, jazz concert, variety show, talent show, numerous comedy shows and Deebone’s first written stage play “Memories of Best Friends”. Following the stage play, was her first original written musical revue vignette “Vanilla, Chocolate and Caramel Too!” in 2007. Her second original musical revue vignette, “Choo, Choo”, was staged in 2010. “Harlem Today” is also an original musical revue vignette being staged in June 2013.

Headshots 045c Nov 2010 from Big GuyMeet the Producer

Dee (Deebone) Brooks is the sole owner of Deebone Productions and a graduate from the University of Phoenix with a Business Marketing Degree. Born and raised in San Diego, she is the youngest of five children. Her father was born in Terrell, Texas; her mother in Kaufman, Texas. Known for being well-organized and a stickler for time, you can expect her productions to begin timely. Quite frequently, you can expect to be treated with something free at her productions. With the exception of the “Choo, Choo” flyer, Deebone has designed all of her flyers and programs. In addition to owning a production company, she is employed as a Business Systems Analyst.

Dee produces and funds all productions with original content and music. Her productions have grown in size and visibility within the play circuit. She is currently casting for her next production…

I have openings for actors and actresses 17 years of age and older.  Someone suggested I checked with your group.  The name of the show I’ve written is called “Whatcha’ Gonna Get’. It is a multiple skit vignette. Skit selection isn’t made until the cast is intact so I do not have any specific information to provide. There will be 9 – 11 skits. All skits have acting, some have dancing and some have singing. This production will provide a couple of actors the opportunity of Directing or co-Directing a skit to add to their resume. There are choreography opportunities as well. Compensation is a targeted stipend + $5 per ticket sale. Rehearsals are 2 days a week + Saturday.  Rehearsals will increase to 3 days + Saturday  closer to the show date. Ideally, I would like to secure 2 more actors and 1 more actress of any ethnicity.   The first cast meeting is this week so I’m finishing up auditions within the next few days. If you know anyone interested, please have them email me whatchagonnaget@deeboneproductions.com

115 Still - 978 Two Thousand - Diana

2000 Diana

169 Still - Harlem Today - All 5 Actresses

Harlem Today

 

The production will be held at a beautiful location in National City.

Show dates below…
Tech night 2/17
Tech night 2/18
Tech night 2/19
Show 2/20 : opening night
Show 2/22 : evening
Show 2/23 : matinee show
Show 2/27 : evening
Show 3/1: evening

 

Tatiana Daniel Takes Brooke Journey Inc. on the Road

Posted on: November 8th, 2013 by tommyj

1000235_650087775031167_1968474811_nBeing an entrepreneur is very challenging…being a young entrepreneur can be both challenging and a hard road to navigate.  Regardless of the industry mental toughness, patients and virtue are just a few traits one must have in order to stay the course and succeed.  There are going to be many challenges, but at the same time there will be great personal rewards. When you have established a firm foundation and a solid base for your venture that’s just the beginning.  Tatiana Daniel has begun to explore her travels with “Brooke Journey Inc”. When starting a new business there will be many first.  Recently she produced her first fashion show “The Black & White Affair”.  The show was well attended and had various local designers from the San Diego area.  From the onset we could see she was very driven to put present a great product as well as a great event.  For those of us who have produced or been involved in the back room workings of a fashion show, or any other major event you know the trials and tribulations that go along with organizing such an event.  The various personalities, the egos and the attitudes all are just standard ingredients.  Tatiana seemed to take all that in stride during the night of the show and showed the balance between greeting her guest and keeping the show in order.  But we all know, there was probably a lot of drama taking place back stage.

She now takes her first step in taking her show on the road.  She will be appearing the much1452471_171949006345590_1768981216_n acclaimed Facet Fashion Show; Fall Edition, in Los Angeles Ca.  The fashion industry  can be a rough road to navigate if you do not know the ins and outs.  The New York fashion industry is known worldwide as one of the hubs for fashion.  There seems to be a more common unity to move the industry forward, with collaboration and think tanks.  Los Angeles on the other hand can be very competitive and sometimes cut throat.  With the entertainment and movie industry as an outlet for designers, making sure your looks get seen first can be the key to making your mark in the industry.  Tatiana takes Brooke Journey Inc. into the fashion web of HOLLYWOOD.  It is the old David and Goliath story of the fashion world.  Without much backing and support outside of San Diego, she’s taking her leap of faith and the first big step.

“Life has been one big roller coaster.  This all started with losing my father but that loss turned into a grief pushing myself hard to achieve a goal.  Building a company from the ground up is hard work but has an amazing feeling of appreciation.  I thank God for every opportunity he has given me.  I thank all my true friends and the people who have supported me personally.  Debuting in my first big show in Hollywood…I’m nervous and excited.  I’m up to burning the midnight oil sewing”.

The styles of Brooke Journey Inc., varies in looks, but all do one thing… accentuates the form, shape and curves of a women.  With most designers, they tailor their looks for the size 0 – 2 when designing and cutting the garments.  Sometimes that look does not translate to the size 6 – 10, which there are plenty of.   Brooke Journey Inc. begins by designing to make sure that all the beautiful curves that make a woman, gets their just due, just plain ole Sexy.

The show will be held Saturday November 9th at Mack Sennett Studios, 1215 Bates Ave in Los Angeles CA.  Doors open at 6:00PM.  Come out and see a great show and Brooke Journey Inc. on the runway.

The Image of Magazine is looking forward to producing the feature for Brook Journey Inc. for the print edition in the Spring of 2104

San Diego Asian Film Festival

Posted on: November 6th, 2013 by tommyj

BC-1007-097editedFOct-10small-370x208What is it about Film Festivals that makes them uniquely important and seemingly a vital, integral part of the movie industry?  Why are there Film Festivals taking place all over the world and in small pockets of society? Simple… it levels the playing field, or the big screen in this case. It is an opportunity for the little man to compete with the big wigs of the industry.  As long as the movie can fill the size of the screen, the low budget, 1,2,3, 4 man production can be seen as equally and along side the multi-million dollar production.  Second, you, me the audience gets to see movies, films and documentaries that are not under the marketing control and distribution of the majors…therefore there is no censoring of talent and no shelving of the little mans project that has been pegged for DVD distribution without ever making it to the big screen.  Third, they have become the meeting grounds for cultural diversity and sharing.

There are thousands of film festivals around the world.  Each one with its on unique lure that attracts an audience.  The various cultural festival seem to have a unique pull all their own.  Whether if its a geographical, ethnic, educational or religious in nature, film festivals brings together that community, as well as  invites others to come share in their rich cultural background.  Film festivals allows an audience to see more ofIMG_6714small-770x433[1] the movie industry that is shoved out by the majors. It allows new and up and coming talent, people and other aspects of the world to be seen and is not typecast by a single industry’s view. The artist, film makers and actors have as much freedom to create and showcase their on brand and talent.

So let me introduce you to a very rich cultural Film Festival that has captured high acclaim in the festival world.  Recently named by USA Today as one of the 10 reasons to visit San Diego, the annual San Diego Asian Film Festival is the flagship event of Pacific Arts Movement (formerly the San Diego Asian Film Foundation), a non-profit media arts organization specializing in Asian and Asian American cinema.

Founded in 2000, the Festival has grown to become the largest exhibition of Asian cinema in the western United States, and has showcased everything from future classics like Bong Joon-ho’s Memories of Murder (US Premiere) to luminary independent work like Patrick Wang’s award-winning In the Family (North American Premiere).

Pacific Arts Movement also presents the SDAFF Spring Showcase, a mini-festival in April, as well as year-round quarterly screenings and community events. For information about Pac-Arts and its mission and values, click here.

Join The Image Of Magazine as we cover a dynamic events and the people who make it happen, on and off the camera.  Check out past editions of the San Diego Asian Film Festival:

Unbeatable
2013 SDAFF Spring Showcase
2012 San Diego Asian Film Festival
2012 SDAFF Spring Showcase
2011 San Diego Asian Film Festival
2011 SDAFF Spring Showcase
2010 San Diego Asian Film Festival
2009 San Diego Asian Film Festival
2008 San Diego Asian Film Festival
2007 San Diego Asian Film Festival

Starting Thursday November 7th the San Diego Asian Film Festival begins.  Come out and see why USA Today says the SDAFF is a must attend film festival.  View more information, films, times and dates read the preview for this year on The Image Of Magazine website front page.

Musiq Soulchild… Just Being A Real Man

Posted on: October 28th, 2013 by tommyj

Musiq+Soulchild+52nd+Annual+GRAMMY+Awards+5GNyN8EbexAl[1]When you listen to Musiq, you know he is a musical talent. When you meet the man behind the Musiq you realize there’s more to him than what you hear. We recently held a show for Breast Cancer Awareness month and it reminded me of what Musiq Soulchild has accomplished and why he is still “Just Being A Real Man”. Here’s the article…

Musiq Soulchild… Just Being A Real Man

The one thing that stood out the most about Musiq was his kindness and giving.  After the show at the 4th And B, we spoke with him personally about some of the things he has done and achievements  in music.  He stated to me that he appreciated that I book him to do the show… a full show with a band and everything.  He said that most acts and venues are so into the appearance and not the talent of performing.  He thinks that waters down the industry and true music.  He also said he only had 30 minutes after the show to do pictures, without a fee charge by the way, with a select few fans.  Well he actually stayed for an hour taking pictures with anyone who came to the photo room and spoke with them on a personal level.

That leads me to this.  I also found out that he was an ambassador for the Susan G. Komen For the Cure.  He spoke about being a part of the movement and said he was honored to be a part of it.

(2010) Musiq Soulchild recently announced his new role as an Ambassador for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Circle of Promise, a movement designed to further engage black women around the globe in the fight against breast cancer.

In his new role, Musiq will raise awareness about breast cancer so that younger women know the importance of early detection and why it’s important to pay attention to their bodies.

“Early detection is the key to winning the fight against breast cancer,” said Musiq. “Too often, black women are diagnosed in stage three and four when breast cancer is most difficult to treat. Some women are afraid to seek treatment for fear of losing their breasts or their hair. One’s physical appearance is much less important than the will to live. It’s time to remove the stigmas that are attached to this disease.”

Take a few minutes to check out Musiq’s  video “Yes”, which features breast cancer survivors from the metro Atlanta area. The video was directed by Juwan Lee.


When I saw the video I knew I had not only booked a great musician to do the show, but also a great person who is  just a good ole fashion real MAN that does support women and their cause.  He gives back as much as he can.  When I now look into producing show, I want the quality of the person as well as the talent. musiq_soulchild_20120401_1835955641[1]

So for the remaining days of Breast Cancer Awareness Month we will feature the music of Musiq.  Check out Musiq at www.musiqsoulchild.com.  If you missed his show last year at 4th And B you missed a real talent that knows how to entertain his audience.  We are looking forward to bring Musiq back to SD in 2014.  Stay tuned…

Wednesday October 30, 2013

Musiq was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is the oldest of nine children. At an early age, Musiq left home and dropped out of school at the age of 17. It was during that time Musiq started to build a reputation for being musically gifted, beat boxing for MC’s, free styling on the open mic circuit, scatting at a jazz club, or just performing a cappella in the streets of Philadelphia, which is where he got the name “Musiq” and later added “Soulchild”, which is intended to respect and represent the legacy and traditions of past soul artists. He cites as his inspiration such icons as Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Patti LaBelle, Billie Holiday, Sly & the Family Stone and Ray Charles.

 

“There were people who knew of me but they didn’t really know me; they just knew me as ‘that music dude.’ So after getting that so much, I was like ‘Just call me Musiq.’ It was so fresh to me because if I had to be called anything, I would have wanted to be called Music. That’s how much I dug it; when you see me, I want you to automatically think of music.”[1] The nickname Soulchild came from two ideas. Musiq quotes it as, “Musiq Soulchild is technically two ideas. ‘Musiq’ is the front man and ‘Soulchild’ is the idea behind it. It’s basically me as an artist in this generation, representing the traditions and the legacies of the past soul stars.”

More than any song produced and performed by Musiq Soulchild, “Love” is and will always be the song most of his fans will identify as his signature song.   The words, melody, arrangement and delivery pushed him to the top of the R&B charts.  The “Philly” sound became known to the rest of the industry and the world.

Outside of music, he has been featured in television and print ads for McDonald’s, Nike, Inc., Coca-Cola, Levi Strauss & Co. and The Gap. He made a special appearance on The CW’s #1 comedy The Game on Monday,  as well as the UPN sitcom All of Us. On June 25, 2012, Musiq released a book on love and relationships titled “143 – Love According To Musiq”.

Here’s another classic that could make the average person want to get on the floor and try thier luck on doing the Chicago Step…