EVENT ADDITION: Shreve Memorial Library to Celebrate Kwanzaa Event

The Pamoja Cultural Arts Center is not the only place feeling the Kwanzaa spirit ... A local library is getting in on the cultural celebration.

Shreve Memorial Library's David Raines Branch will celebrate Day Five of Kwanzaa: NIA, which means "purpose".

At 1 p.m. this Wednesday, December 30th, the Mahogany Ensemble Theater will present "Me in the Mirror." The program is free and open to the public.

The library is located at 2855 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Shreveport.

EVENT ALERT: Kwanzaa @ Pamoja

After the Christmas celebration has ended, another more cultural celebration begins -- Kwanzaa.

Locally, the celebration will take place at the Pamoja Arts Center on Linwood Avenue. Here's a list of events for the week-long celebration:



Daily: 11AM to 1:30 PM: Activities for Children and Creative Activities


Sunday, Dec 27th : 7pm to 9pm - ATA Skit

Monday, Dec 28th : 7pm to 9pm - Ceremony

Tuesday, Dec 29th : 7pm to 9pm - Reading by Angelique Feaster

Wednesday, Dec 30th : 7pm to 9pm - Inter City Row

Thursday, Dec 31st : 7pm to 9pm - Book Signing Ms. Tollett

Friday, Jan 1st : 7pm to 9pm - Closing Ceremony



Additional Events: Scarf Tying, Poetry Readings, Drum Circle, Exhibition & Visual Arts

• To learn more about KWANZAA, go HERE.

from our family ... to yours:

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HAVE A SAFE AND BLESSED HOLIDAY SEASON

AND A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

APB: People & Stories Needed!!!

As ATSBC prepares for the end of the year (and the beginning of the new one) we have some special stories planned, and we need YOUR help to make them happen .... Check out the topics we're looking for:


WHAT I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS: Tell us what's tops on your holiday gift list or what your family and kids are asking for ... We want to know what was hot this season. Deadline is Dec. 21st.


NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS: Do you make them? What are they? If you don't make them, why not? Tell us what you do or don't plan to change in the coming year. Deadline is Dec. 29th


TESTIMONIES: Has your faith saved your life? Or saved you from the person you used to be? We're looking for testimonies from the faithful who have a story to share about how their belief in a higher power changed their life or how a major moment/tragedy in their lives brought them to religion. Deadline is Dec. 31st



MAKING BLACK HISTORY: In preps for BHM in February, we want to find people right here in the SBC who are making Black history. Teachers, local celebs, or everday people. Nominate someone or tell us how YOU'RE making it happen for the Black community. Deadline is Jan. 15th.



Any of these interest you??? Then, Submit your story or stories to: mahoganimedia@gmail.com.



AND THANKS!!! :)

WEEKEND HAPZ: Much 2 See and Do!

For once, there's much to do in the SBC ... and it has nothing to do with going to a club!!!

From blaxploitation at the RFC to spiritual revelations at the Fairgrounds, check out The Hapz this weekend:






HOT EVENT -- "BLACK DYNAMITE" @ THE RFC

This Blaxploitation-inspired film stars Michael Jai White (Tyson, Spawn, Why Did I Get Married), who also co-wrote the screenplay. Filled with other screen favorites like Arsenio Hall (as Tasty Freeze), Tommy Davidson (as Cream Corn), Bokeem Woodbine (as Black Hand Jack), Brian McKnight (as Sweetmeat) and Kym Whitley (as HoneyBee) ... The stars (and characters' names) alone should prove one interesting night of entertainment :)

The movie tells the story of 1970s African-American action legend Black Dynamite who is fighting THE MAN. The Man killed his brother, pumped heroin into local orphanages, and flooded the ghetto with adulterated malt liquor and Black Dynamite plays the hero. The film first opened at Sundance in January of this year. After touring other festivals, it opened to limited theaters in October and is now showing at the RFC!!! So support it so we'll get MORE films like this at the theater!

• To learn more about the movie (and check out the trailer) go to www.blackdynamitemovie.com. To see showtimes (and get tickets) go to www.robinsonfilmcenter.org.
  
  
  

SIDE NOTE: At tonight's 7:30 pm showing, guests are encouraged to come in 70's attire to celebrate the era!!! The film will run through Thursday, December 17th




ALSO HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND:

You can engage in some Improv at the ACTOR's CAFE tonight, or share your talents at OPEN MIC tomorrow night ... Go get your laugh on with MIKE EPPS for his last two nights at The Funny Bone ... Go STOMP and SHOUT at the Merry Berry Christmas Festival's Praise Dance and Stomp Competition (Tonight Only) ... Go see and hear the inspirational GOD'S TROMBONES at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum or see the classic MADEA at LSUS's Black Box Theater ... or have some REAL fun and go Bowl with SANTA! :)

Whatever you do ... Have fun and Be Safe!!!

THURSDAY HAPZ: Mike Epps @ The Bone + MET presents "God's Trombones"

Funnyman/actor MIKE EPPS will be hitting the stage at the Funny Bone Comedy Club this week. He'll perform two shows tonight, and Friday night (8 pm and 10:30)... Then on Saturday, he'll add a third show at 11:55 pm.

Tickets are $25 general admission and $40 for VIP (and don't forget you have that all-important will-get-you-kicked-out-if-you-don't-comply TWO DRINK MINIMUM. To check out drink prices in advance, go HERE).

Mike is not a stranger to the SBC, he's performed at the Funny Bone before. He also set up shop back in the summer of 2007 when he was co-starring in the Made-In-The-SBC film "Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins" (He was also in Soul Men, also Made In the SBC).


Since his breakout comedic co-starring role in NEXT FRIDAY, Mike has starred in dozens of movies and TV shows. He's currently filming "Lottery Ticket" with his frequent co-start ICE CUBE (Bow Wow is in it too).

Along with touring and filming, Mike is promoting his latest movie with Ice Cube, "Janky Promoters" and his latest comedy/stand-up release "Mike Epps: Under Rated & Never Faded" -- both hit the stores and web last month.

• For more info on tickets to see Mike at the Funny Bone, Go HERE.
  
  
  
  
  
  

IN OTHER HAPZ TONIGHT:

The Mahogany Ensemble Theatre opens its production of GOD'S TROMBONES tonight.

The play is based on the African-American sermon poems by James Weldon Johnson (who wrote the Negro National Anthem and was a member of the blue-n-white :) !!).

The theatrical favorite is said to "lift your spirits and rock your soul through rousing free verse, spirit-filled songs and dance".


Directed by MET's Angelique Feaster and choreographed by the amazing Roshanda Spears, I'm sure this will be visual and literal delight. The music is directed by Dyani Moore and the cast is said to truly bring these poems alive.


Tonight is the opening night and reception, beginning at 7:30 pm, at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum Theater. The show also runs Friday and Saturday at the same time. Sunday is the final performance and is at 3 pm.


Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 seniors and students, $5 children 12 and under, group rates are available.

To purchase tickets on-line, visit www.mahoganyensembletheatre.org. For reservations, call Mahogany Ensemble Theatre box office at 318-745-ARTS (2787).

• Check out The Times' preview of the play HERE. And go out and revel in the holiday spirit by supporting this production!!!

HAVE A GREAT THURSDAY!!! :)

EVENT PICS: Cafe' Crowd Gets "Dusted" at SoulTree Show

The dimly lit Café was abuzz Saturday night. Dozens of cultured citizens packed downtown’s Shreveport newest weekend venue to enjoy a tasty meal and an evening of performing arts.

It was the second edition of SoulTree Saturdays, a special event that showcases local artists and others beyond the SBC. On the night’s menu: Chicken and Sausage Gumbo, Crab Bisque and hometown Duo MAHOGANY DUST.

As I bounced around the café snapping shots before the show, the conversation varied. Some patrons were reacting to their first visit to Just a Little Café. Many have never been to the spot tucked away beside the downtown library, and were pleasantly surprised.

Once just a location for an appealing breakfast or lunch, it has fast become a haven for local performing artists. Hosting an Actor’s Café every Friday, and Open Mics every other Saturday, the café has only been offering nights events just short of two months ... but from the look of the crowd Saturday night, they may have to expand their calendar.

Also a topic of conversation, the ambiance. Holiday-accented tea lights adorned each table and rouge lighting blanketed the stage area. As patrons indulged in the entrée and salad special, they commented on how the atmosphere was different, warm and inviting. I wholeheartedly agree.

By the time the opening acts hit the stage area, the crowd was fed, full and ready for entertainment. Host, and locally-known actor Rick Lacour served as host, and three local poets (included an amazing last minute addition, monikered “Woman”) blessed the mic first.

Then after another intermission, it was time for the main act: Mahogany Dust.

If you’ve never heard of Mahogany Dust, you’re sleeping on some amazing talent. If you’ve never seen them perform, you’re missing a blessing. The husband and wife duo are proof positive that following your dreams pays off.





I first met them in May of this year, when they performed at Expressions After Dark (hosted by local poet/spoken word artist NSpired). They brought an eclectic, youthful vibe to the usually “old school” JOSH Lounge. I bought their most recent CD, “Experience”, after the show ... and I’ve been a fan ever since.

Every performance Mahogany Dust (comprised of spoken word artist DNA and songbird Gi-Twice) tells the story of how just two years ago, the married couple and parents of one, quit their jobs as microbiologists and decided to pursue their career in music.

Starting with just two songs and two acoustic guitars, these Southern University alum, built a musical legacy by investing in their own studio, and producing their own music – which means as independent artists ... they make 100% of their profit. Not many artists, especially in this area, can say that.

They been at coffeehouses and venues all over the country, including major cities like St. Louis, Dallas and Atlanta (their home for several years); they even performed on BET J’s Lyric Café.

More recently, I’ve appeared with them at local high schools where they’ve performed for kids who usually only listen to T.I. and Boosie, and introduced them to a new world by sharing their story and opening their minds to something different. That’s the kind of motivation and energy this city needs.

Saturday night, their crowd was a lot more adult.

The venue was filled with lovers of the arts, including one of last month’s features, Poetic X; NSpired, several of the regular visitors from The Shreveport Times (shoutout to Donecia Pea and the crew), local producer/musician Tashakka Stills, Red River Radio host Eric Jenkins, and La. State Rep. Roy Burrell.

Regardless of their occupations or positions in everyday life, that night everyone was family. A family who came to that Café to enjoy the show -- together.


The minute Mahogany Dust hit the stage, the energy shifted in the Café. It went from the low hum of random conversation to silence and awe.

DNA opened the show telling their musical history and from the first strum of Gi-Twice’s guitar, all eyes were on them.

They performed songs from both their CDs, 2007’s “Livin’” and 2008’s “Experience”. From the playful but poignant “Do What You Want Do” (from Experience) to the motivational “Livin’” (from their debut CD), the applause seemed to get louder after every song.

Front and center for the entire show was a table of their family members who came out for support (DNA is Shreveport native and Gi-Twice is from Tallulah). Even their 5-year-old daughter London was in attendance, and you could tell she was one of their biggest fans.

The rest of the crowd showed them immense love and appreciation and Mahogany Dust gave it right back through poetry and song.

They even performed the song that made me a fan (“Today” from Experience), and in completely lifted my spirit after a long, stressful week.


I think Mahogany Dust lifted a lot of spirits Saturday night. Even Rick, the host, commented that he was inspired that living his dream as an actor is the right choice for him. His affirmation was their music and their story of taking chances and making sacrifices to live out their dream.

Judging by the crowd that came to share in that dream ... Mahogany Dust made the right choice.





Check them out at http://www.mahoganydust.net/ or at www.myspace.com/mahoganydust1 . You can also check out some of their live performances HERE and see more photos from the show HERE.

THE HAPZ: The Shortcut Version :)

I had a lot going on this week and didn't have time to prepare the regular WEEKEND HAPZ, so let's condense this (especially since there's not much to do this weekend anyway) ...



FEATURED EVENT:

Go check out Mahogany Dust at Just a Little Cafe' tonight. The married duo mixes classic soul and spoken word (which they call Spoken Soul).

Along with their acoustic guitars (and occassional production), it's an amazing display of artistry.

Just a Little Cafe is located at 420 Marshall St. in downtown Shreveport. Admission to this event is $10. Doors open at 7 pm, Show starts around 8 pm.

Check out a preview of the event HERE. And check them out on You-Tube HERE.

• For more weekend events ... Go HERE and HERE. Have a great weekend!

EVENT ALERT: Swift Foundation Toy Drive

Help give joy to children in need this holiday season by supporting the SWIFT FOUNDATION's inaugural TOY DRIVE.

This Friday, December 4th, the Foundation will be collection toys at the Bijou (formerly MacArthur's Steakhouse in the Red River District). The event will run from 5:30pm - 8:30pm.

The foundation is asking that you bring ONE NEW UNWRAPPED, UNOPENED TOY to support the drive. All toys will be given to the children living at the YWCA Family Violence Shelter.


Along with the warm feeling you get from helping others, supporters will enjoy drink specials, door prizes, and free hors d'oeuvres while they last.


If you are unable to attend, organizers are accepting them by mail as well. The address is P.O Box 8030, Shreveport LA, 71148.

The Swift Foundation is headed by Shreveport native and NBA player, Stromile Swift, who believes in the importance of making a difference in the lives of Shreveport-Bossier City’s underserved families.

The Swift Foundation was founded in the summer of 2008. It's primary focus is supporting local community, educational, and personal development programs and organizations while also raising awareness for individuals struggling with kidney-related diseases.

SBC 411: Shreveport Master Plan Meetings Continue This Week

(from www.shreveporttimes.com)


Shreveport residents can attend three meetings in the next two days to sound off on the city’s master planning process.

A public hearing on the plan’s principles is set for today at 6 p.m. in chambers at Government Plaza, 505 Travis St.


Core issues include:

• Working together. Having a united, welcoming city that also serves as a regional hub.


• Greenways. Using trails and waterways for walking or biking as recreation or to get from place to place.


• Job growth. Building on the companies here and attracting industries to draw younger workers known as the "creative class."


• City branding. Helping Shreveport find its identity plus ways to communicate that to other areas.


• Environmental friendliness. Having a successful and healthy city.


North Shreveport residents also can tell consultants what they consider important landmarks and values for their neighborhoods.


These gatherings were postponed because of bad weather in October. Other sections of town have already given their input.


Shreveporters can head to either Green Oaks High School, 2550 Thomas E. Howard Dr., or Louisiana Technical College Shreveport-Bossier Campus, 2010 North Market St. Both meetings run from 6-8:30 p.m.

EVENT ALERT: Cyber Monday

The leftovers are gone (maybe lol). Vacay is over and you're going back to work. Well even at work (as long as it's allowed) you can get in on some great deals for the holidays.


CYBER MONDAY is the follow-up to Black Friday. It's the Monday after Thanksgiving when retailers with websites and online merchants tempt you to shop from the comfort of your computer with major deals, free shippin and free holiday wrapping. It's MY favorite time of the year :)



NOW ... you can go to your favorite store's website and check out what they are offering. Some sistes have all-day sales, hourly sales and some sales start tomorrow and don't end until Christmas Eve.



If you want to compare coupons and deals, go HERE. If you want to be able to access hundreds of sites at once, go HERE.



HAPPY SHOPPING!!! :-)

(and stay linked for Cyber Monday deals EXCLUSIVELY on this site!)

WEEKEND HAPZ: Shopping and More Shopping + A Few Post-Holiday Events

For more SBC'ers ... This weekend is all about marathon shopping (lol).


BLACK FRIDAY is the first day of the Christmas shopping season and one of the first chances for retailers to see what's hot what's not, and how much money they could make off you this holiday season. :-)

I've never been a big Black Friday participant, but I know LOTS of people who are ... So for those people I give you these articles to peruse in preparation for your BIG DAY.

• Full List of Black Friday Bargains
• Black Friday Hot Topics (a Cheat Sheet of Bargains)
• Best Black Friday deals for Gamers
• Top Toys for 2009
• How Local Retailers Have Prepared
• Tips for Safe Shopping

MORE 411: A lot of stores are opening as early as 4 am, and some will be open at MIDNIGHT! Wal-Mart isn't even closing tonight (though I'm not sure they'll let you camp out until the sales start lol). Check out of some of your faves and their hours tomorrow:

Wal-Mart: Most stores will be open 24 hours on Black Friday.

Kmart: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Black Friday.

The Gap: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Black Friday.

Banana Republic: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Black Friday.

Old Navy: 3 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Black Friday.

Toys "R" Us: 12 a.m. on Thanksgiving night to 10 p.m. on Black Friday.

Bath & Body Works: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Black Friday.

Victoria's Secret: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Black Friday.

Sears: 4 a.m. to 10 p.m.

J. C. Penney: 4 a.m. to 11 p.m. Doorbuster specials last from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. Special instant-money coupons--available online at jcp.com and in the sales circular--can be used Friday from 3 to 11 p.m.

Kohl's: 4 a.m. to midnight. Doorbuster specials last from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Best Buy: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Target: 5 a.m. until extended closing times, which vary by store location.

Lowe's: 6 a.m. until regular closing times, which vary by store location. Black Friday specials are valid through Monday, November 30.

Macy's: (in Tyler, TX) 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Doorbuster specials last from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m.

One of the hottest items this year for little girls (besides accessories for the Wii) is Disney stuff related to the Princess and the Frog. As Disney's first Black princess, Black families will probably be snatching up items in bulk. It will definitely be worth something later!!

What's on my list??? GIFT CARDS. It's something I can always use and I don't have to return it :)




FOR THOSE NOT SHOPPING THIS WEEKEND ... here are a few choices to entertain you this post-holiday weekend :)



Go check out ROY WOOD, JR. at the Funny Bone ... Indulge in some WINE TASTING at Bijou ... Check out Christmas In Roseland at the Rose Center ... Help out Yogie & Friends by getting your fill at their Pancake Breakfast ... Learn some Shreveport history (and support a local author/historian) at a Book Signing for Eric Brock ... Check out the holiday crafts at the Mistletoe & More Show or the ones at The Barnwell Arts Market ... or go hear some carols at a Christmas Concert.

BE SAFE OUT THERE!!!

HOLIDAY HAPZ: Thanksgiving Day Events

The main event on Turkey Day is ... well ... the TURKEY. Or in my case ... PIE :)


But there are other things going on. Of course, there are lots of closures to know about. Get a list of holiday closures and advisories HERE.

There are a FEW other events of interest:


Enjoy Thanksgiving dinners and services at St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church ... Get your laugh on at the Funny Bone Comedy Club ... Enjoy a night out at Bijou for the Thanksgiving Nite Bash or for the College crowd, hit up the party at the Holiday Inn Downtown (See both flyers below).

Whatever you do ... BE SAFE and have a GREAT Thanksgiving!!!

SBC 411: Holiday Camps Offered at Sci-Port

Sci-Port will offer holiday camps for students in kindergarten through fifth grade starting Monday.

The camp will run Monday through Wednesday. Costs range from $30 to $45 depending on the age of the child and membership status.


The kindergarten and first-grade sessions are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and second- through fifth-grade sessions are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Extended care options are available for an additional fee.


Themes include "Skin: The inside story," "Can you dig?" and "Little Gobblers and Turkey Science."


To register, call (318) 424-8660. And you can go HERE for more information.

WEEKEND HAPZ: The Holidays Are Almost Here!!!

I can't believe Thanksgiving is in less than a week!!! Where'd the time go??? In less than two months we'll be in a 2010!!! Wowwww.

Anyhoo, whether you're preparing for your time off next week, or your vacay's already underway. Here's what happening with weekend in the SBC:




TONIGHT:


Indulge in some improv the ACTOR's CAFE' at Just a Little Cafe' .... Go check out LOUIS JOHNSON or JEN KOVER at the Funny Bone ... Get some Holiday Shopping done at LES BEAUTIQUES DE NOEL ... Hear some holiday harmonies at the BPCC Fall Concert ... Go gaze at the stars at SCI-PORT or see the Tree Lighting at the Boardwalk ...





TOMORROW NIGHT:


Go check out (or participate in) the OPEN MIC at Just a Little Cafe' ... Cheer on the cowboys and cowgirls at the NATIONAL BLACK RODEO FINALS ... or Go party at the BLACKOUT Affair at the Holiday Inn Downtown.





OTHER EVENTS OF INTEREST:

• West-Edge Artist's Market (Saturday morning)

• Marathon/Walk/5K Run for YMCA

• Hot Lunch Giveaway

• Financial Fortitude Workshop (sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta)

• Women & Heart Disease Presentation

BE SAFE PEOPLE!!!!

SBC 411: Cards 4 Troops & Help 4 Vets + Volunteer Opportunities

Holiday Cards Needed for Troops Overseas


Operation Holiday Card is collecting cards to send to troops stationed overseas and away from their families during the holiday season.

To participate, write a note to an unknown service member inside one card or several, sharing encouragement and holiday wishes. Cards can offer a general Season's Greetings or be specifically for Christmas, Hanukkah or a December holiday. Note on the back of each envelope if the card is for a specific holiday.

The cards can be purchased or handmade, but don't use glitter. No postage is necessary, and participants do not have to include a return address but can if they wish.

Cards can be dropped off at Broadmoor United Methodist Church, 3715 Youree Drive in Shreveport, or mailed to: Operation Holiday Card, 6658 Youree Drive, Suite 180, P.O. Box 335, Shreveport, LA 71105.

All cards must be received by Dec. 2nd to allow for time to be shipped overseas. Call the church at (318) 861-0586, send e-mail to operationholidaycard@gmail.com or use the link on this page to learn more.









Project Offers Legal Help to Homeless Veterans


Project SALUTE, a traveling project of the University of Detroit's Mercy School of Law, will stage in Shreveport two days this week, offering legal assistance to homeless and needy veterans.

The project's mobile law office will be in the parking lot of First United Methodist Church, Head of Texas Street in downtown Shreveport, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday & Friday (Nov. 19-20).

The custom-designed recreational vehicle, donated by an anonymous benefactor, is staffed by professionals who help low-income veterans with their federal veterans' disability and pension benefits claims issues.









Volunteers Sought for Various Endeavors


Northwest Louisiana Volunteer Center has the following opportunities to volunteer. Call the center at (318) 677-2504, ext. 23 to learn more.

— The first Ballin' On the Red Shootout high school basketball tournament needs volunteers Thursday through Saturday for its hospitality room to welcome people, keep the room in order and assist as needed.

— The Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana needs volunteers to organize food drives.

— Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission is asking for tube or long socks by Nov. 25th for its Stuffing Socks Program to provide clean socks to the homeless.

— Volunteers are needed to adopt Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission residents, and churches and companies are needed to adopt groups of 25 to 30 homeless men, women and children for Christmas.

— Donations of turkeys, hams, pies, cakes and rolls are needed Thanksgiving week for the homeless in northwest Louisiana.

I know ... I KNOW!

I know I didn't do WEEKEND HAPZ this past weekend .... I know I've been slipping with the updates .... I 've been sick and tired ... and that's basically my excuse. As always, I will do better. Especially since I'm about to take this site to another level in the coming year.

Stay linked people ... :)

EVENT ALERT: SUSLA Homecoming Week '09

Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA) is hosting it's 2009 HOMECOMING CELEBRATION this week.


Events include an opening ceremony and parade (held Monday), a Staff vs. Faculty basketball game and Comedy show (on Wednesday) and a Greek Show/Patio Show (Thursday). [Look at the flyer for all the events :)]

\
Check out the commercial for the Celebration:

I'm going to try to make to some of these events but make sure you support it!!! (Shout to to Jaleesa) ...

HAVE A GOOD WEEK! :)

SBC 411: Free Haircuts for Kids Offered Monday

Free Kids Haircuts at Bilberry Park


SPAR and Premier Cou-Paté Barber Shop will offer free haircuts for youth at Bilberry Park Community Center on Monday, Nov. 9th.

This event will be held at the center, located at 1902 Alabama St, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

Brian Hampton and Byron Lanaeux, owners of Premier Cou-Paté Barber Shop, are offering the services for free on a first-come, first-served basis for children ages 6 to 13.


For more information, call Lanaeux at (318) 631-1989 or Harold Williams, center manager, at (318) 673-5345.

WEEKEND HAPZ: First Weekend of November :)

Okay so I'm a little biased this week on what you should do with your weekend.



With JUST A LITTLE CAFE' fast-becoming my new favorite spot, I want to see you ALL there for the Friday and Saturday night events (see my previous post for the 411).

But of course, the journalist in me says I SHOULD inform you of what ELSE there is to do this weekend ... So here's a QUICK rundown :)




FRIDAY NIGHT ...


If you're not coming out the Actor's Cafe (or going to a high school football game), you can: Attend the Harvest Conference at Praise Temple ... Get your laugh on at the Funny Bone with comedian Billy D. Washington ... Go see the Mudbugs take on the Jackalopes at the CenturyTel Center .... or go jam with Maze f/ Frankie Beverly and Babyface at the Heart & Soul Jam ...


To see what else is happening Friday night, go HERE.

ON SATURDAY ...


Really the ONLY place you need to be Saturday night is at the TONY HENRY/POETIC X show ... But during the day there's plenty to see and do (including getting your last days in at the Louisiana State Fair, which ends Sunday, November 8th) ... Check out all of Saturday's offerings HERE.

BIZ BUZZ: Downtown Cafe' Opens Doors to Local Talent

In a city where it seems so routine --- same events, same places, same people -- it's refreshing to find a spot that deviates from the mundane.



That spot is called JUST A LITTLE CAFE' ...

Opened in 2007 in a former sandwich shop, for the past two years the downtown eatery has been a favorite for breakfast and lunch crowds.

Less than a block from Government Plaza (where city business is conducted), the downtown library and the Caddo Courthouse ... it's the perfect place for the movers and shakers of the SBC to converge.

Which is why it's not surprising to see this "Little Cafe'" take on the task of opening it's doors at NIGHT and making a place for the classy and cultured to call home.

Beginning in late October, the Cafe' started it's Nightly Events catering to the performing arts and those who love them.

On Fridays, the restaurant becomes an Actor's Cafe'. A place for thespians of all ages in our area to come and showcase their talent.

On the event's inaugural night, October 23rd, students from Magnet High come out and did music theater and monoloques. Then the night ended with local actors Rick Lacour and Tileda Moore (pictured above) doing some improv.

On Saturdays the Cafe' will be a hub for even more performers as they feature artists from the region (every 1st Saturday), host a Young Artist's Night for local teens to show their stuff (every 2nd Saturday) and open the floor for adults to enjoy some poetry, song and dance as well (every 3rd Saturday).





At the spot's first Open Mic, held Halloween night, they had both poetry and song ... with a surprise appearance by local favorite Mahogany Dust (who will now be featured at the Cafe' on December 5th!).


Both the Actor's Cafe' and Open Mic nights are FREE.


Besides the amazing talent you'll see at these events, the place just oozes positivity and ambiance is so family-oriented, you can't help but enjoy your experience there.

With no alcohol served and no smoking allowed, it's a place for all age groups.



Overhead the owners play everything from Sade and Anita Baker to Run DMC and Q-Tip. You definitely won't hear that at ANY other venue in the city.

But the culturally-charge vibe isn't the only hot commodity at the Cafe' --- the food is good too!!!

In October the featured item on the menu was shrimp or fish po-boys and from what I hear (because I'm not a fan of po-boys) it was DEE-LISH.

The seasoned fries, however, I did try and they were sooooo good. Not to mention the Cafe' DOES serve lattes and other coffee drinks.

My recommendation: The White Chocolate Mocha (much cheaper than Starbucks and just as tasty).



So what do we have --- A place to do breakfast or lunch on the weekdays, enjoy local talent and good food on the weekends, listen to some great hip hop or soul, and if you're an artist you could possibly get your big break! (and did I mention they have free wi-fi?)


I mean ... What's not to like? LOL.

• Check out JUST A LITTLE CAFE' on Facebook and MySpace. Or SEND AN E-MAIL for more information.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

COMING UP AT THE CAFE:

This Saturday, November 7th ... the Cafe' will play host to it's first Featured Artist Event.


Houston-based soul singer TONY HENRY will be there and the special guest is local spoken word favorite POETIC X.

If you've never heard TONY HENRY, trust that you need to be there!!! He plays acoustic guitar and that's really all the back-up he needs with such an amazing voice (think Dwele, Robin Thicke, or Maxwell). Check more of him out HERE.

If you've never heard POETIC X, trust that you need to be there ... This pair will definitely make it a memorable night. Poetic's powerful lyrics will leave you enlightened and make you an instant fan. Check him out HERE.


The cost for this night??? $15 (and that includes food). You won't get that deal ANYWHERE WITHIN A 25 MILE RADIUS.



So check it out SATURDAY night. Doors open at 6 pm. Show begins (around) 7 pm.




I feel like this is going to become THAT SPOT in the coming year, so make sure you're a part of something NEW in the SBC!!!

ITEM: Bossier Watching Levees, Flooding Still a Danger

Anyone living in the SBC who DIDN'T receive damage from last Thursday's massive storms is quite lucky.

Even days later, some residents are still fearing the worst as the water is still at a dangerous height and pushing the limits at the levees in Bossier. Evacuations have already been issued and now it's literally a waiting game.

Last week's storms came as a shock probably to even the forecasters.

What we thought would be the usual rain and thunder ... turning into tornadoes, flooding, property damage and even a near-death experience for one man (who had a church steeple fall on his vehicle, with him in it!).


As both city officials and residents watch and wait, please keep those who are still recovering in your thoughts and prayers.

When we're usually fearing Hurricanes this time of year, we must remember that any act of nature can lead to devastation and should be taken very seriously.


Be careful out there!

• Check out other photos (from www.shreveporttimes.com) of the recent storms and damage HERE.

• (photo above by henrietta wildsmith/the times)

SBC 411: SFD Seeks Volunteers + Poor Man's Supper

Fire Department Seeks Volunteers

The Shreveport Fire Department, in conjunction the Caddo-Bossier Citizen Corps, is seeking volunteers for a new Reserve Fire Corps Program.

The program, the first of its kind, will consist of private citizens working side by side with trained fire professionals in limited capacities and nonemergency roles.

The duties will include duties accompanying members of the Fire Prevention division on schools and daycare visits, redirecting traffic at the scenes of major fires and assisting the day-to-day operations around the fire stations, Crawford said.

The initial class will consist of 10-15 people.

Interested applicants must be at least 18 years old, pass a background check and complete a two-week comprehensive training program. The department plans to offer two classes per year in order to maintain 40 Reserve Corp members on staff.

Anyone interested in serving should contact Assistant to the Fire Chief Fredrick Sanders at (318) 673-6652 or fredrick.sanders@shreveportla.gov by Nov. 1 to receive an application.







Poor Man's Supper Held This Weekend

Christian Services will have its Poor Man's Supper fundraiser this coming Sunday, from 6 to 7:15 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in downtown Shreveport.

"The spirit of this event is to emulate the experience of the less fortunate, by serving a typical soup kitchen meal of soup and bread, and to project a greater awareness of the plight of the poor and underserved," according to a news release.

Event proceeds will go to services for the poor, needy and underserved. Tickets can be purchased by calling (318) 221-4857.

EVENT CANCELLED/Commentary: No Halloween Bash for Mingles

For those of you who have become regular patrons of Mingles Bar and Grill in South Shreveport, you may have already heard this ... but for those of you who haven't -- Tonight's BOO PARTY (mentioned in my Weekend Hapz) has been cancelled.

Not only that, the spot has been shut down until their to-be-announced Grand Opening.

I would go ahead and put some people on front street as I hypothesize why this happened, but let's just say: HATERS STRIKE AGAIN.

Competition is an ugly thing ... and here in the SBC, it's a breeding ground for bitchassness when it comes to parties and nightlife.


Seems like every time a business managed by a young, Black person opens anywhere near establishments that cater to patrons of varied races, there's a problem.

Of course having tipsy people hanging out outside, promoting the spot as a BYOB venue, and allegedly not having a liquor license doesn't help.

BUT -- I suspect that even if all that wasn't a factor, it would still be a problem. Because people (including OUR people) don't like to see other succeed more than them and/or steal their shine. It's sad, but SO ture.


When the place is packed with only word-of-mouth promotion and feels more like a family gathering than a club, AND has the hottest DJ in the city spinning ALL NIGHT, I guess it's worth hatin' on. LOL.


So Mingles, we'll see you later .... Haters never prosper.

- m

WEEKEND HAPZ: Halloween in the SBC!!!

RAIN, RAIN GO AWAY ... SO WE CAN TRICK-OR-TREAT AND PLAY!!! :)

This time last year I was STARVING for a place to party (in my costume) on Halloween weekend ... With no kids, I didn't have much to do, so I ended up doing a movie marathon at home.


BUT THIS YEAR, there seems to be a plethora of events for those daring to venture out on the scariest night (and weekend) of the year.



Check them out (weather permitting):




PRE-HALLOWEEN EVENTS:


Some parties are starting even BEFORE the big night .... On FRIDAY, October 30th, you can: Go GLOW BOWL at Holiday Lanes ... Take the kids to Trick-or-Treats night at Sci-Port ... Attend Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at Fox Creek Farms or the one at Ralph & Kacoo's ... Go to the Shocktale Show at the La. Fairgrounds ... Go hear spooky stories at Norton Art Gallery or Walter B. Jacobs Park ...





EVENTS FOR THE FAMILIES:


A lot of churches and organizations are offering alternatives to the traditional Halloween events. Like the Greater Outreach Conference , the Party and Dance at First UMC, The Pumpkin Patch Party , The Monster Mash Bash (bowling fun for the fam at Holiday Lanes), and for Singles there's a special party being held for you to mingle on Halloween night (get the info HERE).





FOR THOSE WHO LOVE A GOOD SCARE:


This is your last weekend to get spooked at local haunted houses ... like Scary Central in Bossier, the Ultimate Fear Haunted House in downtown Shreveport ... the Haunted Corn Maize in Dixie, Louisiana ...



Not into haunted houses? Go check out Ghostbusters at the RFC. Not exactly scary, but a great way to spend Halloween night (in the comfort of a plush theater seat! :)





FOR THE PARTY PEOPLE:

OUR FEATURED EVENT (covered by Mahogani Media) is the EXQUISITE COSTUME PARTY held at Bijou (shout out to BJ!).


Come out and relax with the professional crowd. Costumes are optional but classy is not. So get creative and make your costume the hottest in the place.

Best costume wins CASH!!!! and only $10 before midnight with a special guest DJ on the mic all night!!!!

Up the street from the Bijou, CROWDPLEASER ENT will present "FEAR FACTOR II" at the Holiday Inn (Downtown Shreveport).

The 1st 100 People in Costumes only $5!!! A cash prize will be awarded to best costume. Doors Open @ 9pm,

ALSO DOWNTOWN ... GiGi's Martini Room is hosting a PlayBoy party on Halloween night ... featuring the Hugh Blackner (don't ask me cuz I dunno lol) and his Bunnies.


Of course there will be a costume contest ... 1st place gets $200, 2nd place gets a $75 bar tab, and 3rd place will get a $25 bar tab AND free admission for two people for the month of November. Doors open at 9 pm ...

IN SOUTH SHREVEPORT: Mingles Bar & Grill (the newest spot in the SBC, behind the Applebee's off Mansfield) is hosting a BOO PARTY ... DJ Slim (the best in the city) will be providing the music. There will be a costume contest and prizes. BYOB. Admission is $5 (Must have costume on!) ... Go HERE for more info.

ACROSS THE RIVER: DJ Spoonie is hosting the Ghosts & Goblins Bash at the Bossier Civic Center (no word on whether recent weather events will cancel this though).

Ca$h Prizes for the best Costumes, including best Michael Jackson, free tattoo giveaways.

Only $8.00 for the 1st 50 people with Costumes!! For more info 318-828-3559

ALSO HOSTING PARTIES Saturday night: Photographer turned DJ, J. Brown, The Krewe of Centaur , and the Horseshoe Casino.





AND Even though GSU is celebrating their Homecoming this weekend, some Gramblinites still plan to get in some Halloween fun. Go HERE to get details on the party hosted by the Ques.

EVENT ALERTs: SBC'ers Take The Stage This Week

The SBC has the entertainment bug this week. There are a lot of opportunities for those that love the performing arts to see LIVE entertainment this week/weekend. Check it out:



TODAY:

TAP Drama Presents: “The Real Deal”
Written by Judi Ann Mason; Directed by Vincent Williams.

There will be a student performance at 9:45 am (Free) in the Byrd auditorium.

The evening performance is at 7 pm and costs $5.

ON FRIDAY:

The newest spot for showcasing performers invites you to their ACTOR'S CAFE', which will happen every Friday night.


I attended the "opening night" on last Friday and was pleasantly surprised. The spot is nice and cozy, has a great latte' and played some awesome music you won't hear at ANY venue here in the SBC (you know anyone playing Badu and D'Angelo? I didn't think so lol).

The food didn't look half bad either. (I'm not a po-boy fan but I hear the selections WILL change for every event and are sure to please your tastebuds).

As for the ACTOR'S CAFE' ... Patrons were blessed with some VERY talented people last Friday. Students from Magnet High did everything from dramatic monologues to original songs.

And later that night, local actors Justrick "Rick" Lacour and Tileda Moore (pictured above) treated the audience to some improv that blew us ALL away! (See some pics and clips from last week HERE).

The Actor's Cafe' will happen again THIS Friday ... Doors open at 6 pm, Sign-up is until 7 pm, and Performances will begin around 7:30 pm. (Hosted by J. Houston 'aka' Scooby). ADMISSION IS FREE. So go check it out!






ON SATURDAY:

Just A Little Cafe' opens its doors again for it's first OPEN MIC. This Saturday's event will be open to ALL ages. Singers, songwriters, poets, etc. are all welcome to come out and bless the audience.

This event will be the premiere of the OPEN MIC series, which will continue as follows for the rest of the year:


On November 14th (and every 2nd Saturday), the Cafe' will host YOUNG ARTIST'S NIGHT for teens of the SBC. Performers ages 13 to 19 are encouraged to come and sing, dance, recite poetry, tell jokes or act out a skit. Material MUST be tasteful. All ages are welcome to come watch. Admission is FREE.

On November 21st (and every 3rd Saturday), the LYRIC CAFE' will be open to Adults Only (18 and up). All material is welcome (nothing extreme). Poets, singers, songwriters, musicians ... Come out and share your talents!!!

• For more information about these events go HERE, or HERE.

(Mahogani Media is an official sponsor as well so you can also e-mail us for more info!)




AS YOU CAN SEE ... If you're a lover of the performing arts, there's something to do every day if you want! Go share your talents or enjoy the talent of others!!!