Blatant Racism Blocks Black Culture In Shreveport

I'm late in seeing this story, but right now ... I don't care ... (racism isn't just in Jena, people!)


The following is a story posted on KTBS.COM earlier this week, concerning a proposed jazz club on Springlake (Line Ave.) that was turned down by the City Council representatives in that area.

A Shreveport man wanting to open a jazz club on Line Avenue is now singing the blues. The city council muted his plans during Tuesday night's meeting.

Council members say hours of operation were a factor. But the proposed jazz club wouldn't have been open much later than the other establishments already there.

Quenn Echols had hoped to open a jazz and R&B club in the Springlake Mall on Line Avenue, but those plans were shot down when city council members voted against him.

The Zoning Board of Appeals had already approved Echols' plans, but Councilman Michael Long and those in his district didn't.

Long says right now, all the bars in the area where Echols wanted to build are connected to restaurants, but according to some of the e-mails council received, this issue wasn't just about bars.

"Let's face it, yes, there was racial overtones in this situation. There's no doubt about it," Long said.

So for now, Echols is trying to come up with a plan b for his R&B club since city leaders have decided Line Avenue and jazz just don't don't mix.

Councilmember Joyce Bowman was the only one who voted in favor of Echols' plans.

The location for the proposed jazz and R&B spot was that of the former Sea Grill and right near Tony's Liquor and Chianti's. Yet THIS proposal for the same kind of business was turned down ... and we know why... (view the entire story HERE).

I know Mr. Echols personally and have been following this process from initial concept to its most recent demise, and it sickens me that people can kill something that would FINALLY bring a cultural alternative to KoKoPellis (away from the madness of Downtown Shreveport) -- all because of the skin color of the business patrons.

I remember watching the first Council meeting, where Mr. Echols fought for the club over a month ago, on the Shreveport Channel (or whatever it's called now) and I heard Shreveport Mayor Cedric Glover and other Black council members give Mr. Echols a raving introduction ...

Then, minutes later, the "opposition" stood up (with their ill-informed selves) and basically claimed that the club would cater to thugs and drunks that would attempt to molest the children/teens that went to the dance academy (which shared a parking lot with the proposed location).

One of the women claimed that the proposed club would be open from 6 a.m. to 2 or 3 a.m. and the drunks would be mingling with the kiddies. Guess no one told her clubs don't stay open for 22 hours. And what kind of dance school keeps little girls out until 7 p.m.?

My first thought was why would a dance academy be open late enough to overlap with people attending happy hour and concert events, but I digress.

Forget the fact that the "hood" is within walking distance from this area ... It's basically IN Cedar Grove. (WE can't set up shop in our own AREA???)

Forget the fact that there are already SEVERAL businesses in the same area that sell alcohol before the sun sets and cater to "drinkers" and those who live in the neighborhood. (Tony's, Chianti's and a little further down, Superior Grill).

And forget the fact that most child molesters/predators are not even Black (okay so maybe I don't have research on that but how many Black people have been busted on To Catch A Predator or at Columbia Park?).

I was looking forward to having a place to go where I could just lounge with my friends and not worry about foolishness. I was excited about not having to deal with the downtown traffic, crowds and casino goers. I was elated to welcome some CULTURE to this barren city.

But no -- racism strikes again. Even the Mayor's blessing wasn't enough to keep a Black man from going down.

So thank you Racist White Shreveport for robbing us of what could've been an excellent alternative and musical haven.

Guess tolerance and evolution aren't on the menu where you eat, but go ahead and have another pitcher of beer ... and don't trip over your sheet on the way back to your rebel-flag-adorned SUV as you head home to your double-wide trailer.

See, Black people can stereotype too.

- mahogani

Mardi Gras 2008 ... Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!

The second parade of Shreveport/Bossier's 2008 Mardi Gras Season (the Krewe of Sobek was the first to parade on the 12th), rolls out on MLK Day, with the Krewe of Harambee at the "reigns."

The parade begins at the Municipal Auditorium and rolls through part of Downtown Shreveport, beginning at 2 p.m. Monday, January 21st. (The floats will be lining up at 11 a.m.).

This year's theme for Harambee is "Kings and Queens of Africa". This year's Captain is LeMar Flukers and this year's Queen is Sharon Braggs.

For more information on the Krewe of Harambee and events they'll be hosting later this year ... Click HERE. and if you can't make it to the parade, it will be broadcast LIVE on KPXJ CW-21.

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On Saturday, January 26, The Krewe of Centaur will roll through Shreveport streets.

This year's Centaur Parade theme is "Centaur TV Land," which will be a tribute to great television.

The Krewe will have a loading party the Friday prior to the parade (Jan. 25th) and then the parade will roll at 4 p.m. on Saturday.

For parade information, Click HERE or go to http://www.kreweofcentaur.org/

and check your local listings for LIVE broadcasts of the parade.

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Next to roll out for Mardi Gras 2008 is the unique Krewe of Barkus and Meoux.

The only Krewe dedicated to non-human Krewe members takes a stroll around Riverview Park (downtown Shreveport) on Sunday, January 27th.

Activities begin at 1:30 p.m. and the parade starts at 3 p.m.

For more information go to http://www.animalkrewe.org/

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The other large company, The Krewe of Gemini will parade on Saturday, February 2nd at 4:30 p.m. If you log on to http://www.kreweofgemini.com/ you can see the parade route (shown below), as well as photos of the floats!

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Wrapping up Mardi Gras 2008, are the Krewes of Highland and Aesclepius. Highland, of course, parades in Highland on Saturday, February 3rd at 2 pm ...



and Aesclepius parades around the Louisiana Boardwalk at 5 p.m. on Fat Tuesday, February 5th; and will host the closing ceremony under the Texas Street Bridge at 11:30 p.m. After that ceremony, Lent season will officially begin.

If you're headed to New Orleans for the festivities there, go to: http://www.mardigrasday.com/mardigras/ where you'll find parade information as well as the history of Mardi Gras .. and the site will be streaming the parades LIVE each day/night!



AND if you're a King Cake fan like me ... the BEST I've ever tasted come from The Dough Basket .. But order WELL in advance!!!

HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE MARDI GRAS SEASON!

BON FETE!

(c) 2008 - mahogani media

College Crowd Takes Over Tha Penthouse

I went out Saturday night for the first time in months. My mission -- to show the SBC what's going on around town as far as entertainment.

On the menu ... Sweet Temptation, a college party hosted by my homeboys DJ Marle-Mar of CrowdPleaser Productions/Ent. and Fatha Flow of College Life Entertainment.

Both were in the building, but Fatha Flow didn't want me taking flicks of him (j/k Flow).

I've never been to Tha Penthouse, which is 3 stories above the Municipal Auditiorium's main stage (where the Krewe of Apollo was partying on the same night).

After braving the cold (and the stairs in 4-inch heeled boots), I entered the venue -- which brought me back to the ballrooms and halls I'd partied in as an undergrad. Ahhh ... memories!

Along with some bumpin' music, a half dozen plants adorned with strings of lights and a great window/balcony view of all the people on the street, this spot is a prime spot for some classy entertainment.

My goal was to interview Marle-Mar about his role in entertaining Shreveport-Bossier as both a DJ and event/party promoter, but this blog is just about the event.

In a city with 2 major universities, 2 junior colleges and a slew of techinical colleges (not to mention that Grambling, Tech, NSU, Wiley and ULM are all within 2 hours from here), I'd always wondered why no one ever catered to the College Crowd.

When I came home from college, all I had was The Players Club, KoKopellis (in the original location, before it became the House of Crunk), Chicago (which got old real quick) and Voodoo (which was sorta brand new then ... hey, I'm old!).

Now the pickings are even slimmer being that most clubs won't let 18 year olds NEAR the door.

Maybe the crack-down on underage drinking (and the stripping of liquor licenses due to it) made some weary of letting under 21-year-olds party in the SBC.

That's where CrowdPleaser and College Life come in -- to fill that void; And judging from the turnout Saturday night, the College Crowd thanks them!

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Here are some pics from the event

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DJ Marle-Mar on the 1's and 2's

The fellaz and ladies getting their groove on!

Phi Beta Sigma in the house!

Don't these lovely young ladies look like they should be a singing group? lol

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Marle-Mar says to be on the look-out for more parties at the Penthouse as well as a major CP event coming up the first weekend of February.

** And stay tuned for more from Marle-Mar and CrowdPleaser Productions/Entertainment.

(c) 2008 - mahogani media

Random Cutie: Terrence

Ever been at the mall or Boardwalk or even in line at the grocery store and seen someone you thought was cute or hot? I know I have ... lol.

And now I'm taking action to share these cuties with the SBC in something I call RANDOM CUTIES.

I'm a hetero female, so of course I'm prone to the male persuasion ... but I do see women that I think are gorgeous and when I see one, I'll give them the same credit ... I promise :)



Meet Terrence. I met this 19-year-old Florida native while he was working the drive-thru and the Starbucks near Pierre Bossier Mall.

He was gracious (and confident) enough to let me snap this after he handed my homegirl her coffee.

Terrence has been in our area for about nine months now and we've already run him back home lol.

He said he has his fill of Shreveport/Bossier and is ready to leave.

Terrence says he'll be moving back to FL soon and hopes to attend school majoring in Criminal Justice/Law with hopes of becoming a Probations Officer or some form of Law Enforcement.

I bet he'd look good in uniform! LOL.



Side Note: Terrence told me if he didn't like the pic, he'd ask me to take it down so get your AWWWWs in quick! Thanks for letting me take a picture of you Terrence!



Be on the look out people ... I might snap a picture of you and post you as a RANDOM CUTIE!

- mahogani

Auditions Set for "Madam CJ Walker Story"

The Mahogany Ensemble Theatre will hold auditions for the 3rd Season opener play "The Madam CJ Walker Story" on Saturday, January 19, 2008.

The Madam CJ Walker Story is an inspiring drama about Louisiana native Sarah Breedlove, who went on to start the first successful hair care product line for black women. Ms. Breedlove, later known as Madame CJ Walker went on to become the world’s first self-made female African American millionaire!

This empowering historic play infused with soul-stirring songs and uplifting dance recounts one woman’s dreams, determination, and spirit of giving.

Saturday's auditions will be held from 2:00-4:00 pm at the Shreve Memorial Library Wallette Branch (363 Hearne Ave.).

The cast consist of roles for—actors: African American women and men, 4 African American girls (8-18 yrs. old), 1 African American boy (ages 13-18) and 1 middle aged Caucasian woman; African American singers and dancers are also needed.

To schedule an audition time, please call 318-745-2787 or email mahoganytheatre@hotmail.com.


The mission of Mahogany Ensemble Theatre is to enlighten, enrich, and empower communities through entertaining African-American theatre experiences while exploring the common ground of humanity.


Go HERE for more information.

Casting Call for TEKKEN

I found this on the LOUISIANA MOVIES BLOG and thought I should pass it on:

The futuristic martial arts movie “Tekken” will hold an open casting call Jan. 19 between 1 and 4 p.m. at the Multicultural Center of the South. The movie is based on the popular videogame and stars Jon Foo (“House of Fury,” “The Protector”, "Batman Begins").

“Tekken” will begin shooting in early February. Glorioso Casting is looking for extras and featured extras of all ages and ethnicities. Applicants should bring a nonreturnable photo of themselves, if possible. If a photo can’t be provided, casting directors will take one. Cost of application is free.

For more information, call the casting company at (318) 603-4560. Persons who cannot attend the casting call can register at http://www.gloriosocasting.com/.

The Multicultural Center of the South is located at 401 Texas St. in downtown Shreveport.

Bookmark that blog for the latest on what's shooting in our area ... and for monthly information on what's shooting around the state (and how you can send in your resume for casting and crew), call (225) 342-FILM.

Weekend Events: Jan 11-13, 2008

FRIDAY

7 pm: Krewe of Sobek Bal @ Riverview Hall, S’port.

Entertainment will be provided by the Windstorm Band and DJ Rockin Roz. Also, there will be a cash bar and Cajun breakfast. The attire is African or black tie with a theme of "Sobek Goes to Africa". Tickets are $50. Call 318-218-0778 for more information.

SATURDAY

10:15 a.m. – 6 p.m: Madden Tournament @ Sci-Port Discovery Center

Bragging rights (and a cash prize!) are at stake. If you think you’re the biggest and the best when it comes to Madden NFL, now’s the time to prove it. Play is from 10:15 a.m. until 6 p.m. *Finalists will play on the big screen in the Dayna & Ronald L. Sawyer SPACE DOME Planetarium Saturday, January 19 or 26 depending on when tournament wraps. Grand Prize is $500, an XBOX 360 and a game; 2nd prize is $250 and 3rd prize is $100. Registration has ended but you can come out and cheer on the gamers for a discounted admission.


1 pm: Krewe of Sobek Mardi Gras Parade @ State Fairgrounds

The parade will begin at Louisiana Fairgrounds, travel down Mertis Ave. to Lakeshore Dr., then down Lakeshore Dr. to Missouri Ave. and end back at the Louisiana Fairgrounds. For information about the parade call 318-635-5686 or 318-470-3890.


6 pm – 12 am: Krewe of Centaur Grand Bal @ Riverview Hall in S’port.

This event features an open bar and a breakfast buffet. Centaur's Royalty will be presented after which the band will play. Tickets are $65 in advance and $75 at the door. Call 318-518-1853 for more information or e-mail: broadmoordrug@bellsouth.net.


6: 30 pm: 15th Annual MLK Banquet @ Summer Grove Baptist Church

Guest speaker will be The Rev. Aaron L. Dobynes, pastor, Evergreen Baptist Church, also, senior praise team and live musical entertainment. The church is located at 8924 Jewella Avenue. Tickets are $20 per person. Call: (318) 377-2025 or 949-9874 for more information.




SUNDAY


11:30 am – 2 pm: Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Jazz Brunch @ BAFB

The theme is "Reigning Cats and Dogs". Entertainment will be provided by Professor Porkchop along with a silent auction and complimentary champagne mimosas. Attire is Sunday dress or cocktail. Tickets are $40 in advance, $45 at the door. Call 318-752-CATS for more information or visit www.animalkrewe.org.


8:00 pm: Hypnotist Anthony Potmesil @ The Funny Bone

This is an experience you don’t want to miss!!! Anthony has hypnotized thousands bringing them through the wildest and most twisted sides of their mind. His shows are said to be the funniest hypnosis shows people have ever seen. Admission is $10-15 but this week only if you sport your Purple and Gold in honor of LSU’s Championship win, you’ll get in FREE (Students free on Wednesday with ID; Ladies free on Thursday). Sunday shows are also smoke free! PHONE THE BONE at 221-4290 to reserve tickets.



MULTIPLE DAY EVENTS


PBR Rodeo (Friday and Saturday @ the CenturyTel Center)

This event is part of the Professional Bull Rider's Enterprise Tour. Shows are at 8 p.m. each night. Tickets are $21.75 to $66.75, and are available at the CenturyTel Center box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com and by phone at 318-741-9700.


ArkLaTex Racers Auction & Trade Show (Sat/Sun @ Bossier Civic Ctr.)

A consignment auction will be held and auto parts, accessories and supplies will be featured at the Trade Show. Jan. 12 & 13. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday. $20 each. Call: 903-832-1831 or 970-216-1995 for more information or e-mail:. besong0494@yahoo.com.




(Want to have events mailed to your inbox? e-mail: shreveportevents@hotmail.com)

Shreveport Mayor To Be Honored By BET; Enough Is Enough Marches On

Shreveport Mayor Cedric B. Glover will be among several distinguished Americans recognized in the nation's capitol this weekend, at the BET HONORS awards ceremony.

According to their corporate website, BET HONORS is a brand new awards program that "celebrates Black achievement in business, entertainment, social justice and philanthropy," including the "brightest, the most talented, the most ambitious, the most generous and the most crusading members of the Black community."

(With qualifications like that, these awards could last as long as the Oscars!!!).

Mayor Glover was honored along with other local heroes around the country. A Shreveport resident submitted his name and BET granted him the honor! Congrats Mayor Glover!

Other honorees include Dr. Cornel West, Tyra Banks and Maxine Waters (oh yeah, and Alicia Keys).

The awards are being taped this weekend in Washington, D.C. and will be aired February 22nd (8/7c) on BET.

Award performances will include John Legend, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu (I'm watching just for THAT) and Aretha Franklin.


Side Note: Mayor Glover and other honorees attending the awards will have to step through protestors to get into the building.

Grassroots organization Enough Is Enough has been actively protesting the awards show for weeks now and they are planning to march outside the awards ceremony Saturday night.

The organization has been one of the driving forces encouraging Black Americans to boycott BET for programming they feel glorifies violence and criminal activity, and contributes to the degredation of Black women.

Organizers of the campaign/protest say the awards show is just BET's way of trying to deter viewers from other programming ... i.e. it's just a PR stunt.



{{Speaking for MAHOGANI, I can't blame them and though I appreciate BET's effort to honor Black achievers, I personally do not watch the channel. I could do a whole series of blogs on that alone, but I'll save that for later!}}



Read about Mayor Glover's reaction to being nominated HERE.


Read more about the Protest HERE.


Read more about/Join Enough is Enough HERE.

m.m. (c) 2008

Weekly Events - Get On The List!

For those who know me, I send out e-mails of weekly events to those interested in what's going on in Shreveport/Bossier. I'm still contemplating on posting them here (so stay tuned) but if you'd like to get on the list and have events and party information sent directly to your e-mail inbox, e-mail shreveportevents@hotmail.com ... GET ON THE LIST!

Writers Wanted!

Mahogani Media seeks writers interested in submitting or doing work for this blog "Around the SBC" ... This IS non-paid!!! Please e-mail shreveportevents@hotmail.com if you're interested :)

Happy New Year

Welcome to 2008! And let me introduce myself. My "name" is Mahogani and I've created this blog for locals interested in keeping track of what's going in Shreveport-Bossier's Black Community (and beyond). This is not a political blog, though it may be discussed. I'm basically covering community events and entertainment, but feel free to e-mail me with suggested topics or events you would like me to attend. With that said, let's do this! LOL.