Enter the World of Cyrus Webb

Cyrus Webb Asks: Is Conversations Magazine Feeding Your Love Of Life?

2012-01-29T02:56:00.001-08:00

(New York Times Bestselling author John Saul seen here with Conversations Magazine)From the time it relaunched in December 2010, Conversations Magazine (www.conversationsmag.com) has been making a name for itself by offering not just insightful interviews and discussions but extras such as motivational messages, delicious recipes, commentaries and entertainment news suitable for members of the entire family.

Today Conversations Magazine has over 3000 print subscribers in 6 countries (United States, Spain, New Zealand, Pakistan, Greece and Zimbabwe), and the momentum seems to be growing with each week.
Editor-In-Chief Cyrus Webb and the team that brings the magazine to life each month have a simple question for you: Is Conversations Magazine feeding your love of life?

If not, make sure you subscribe today! Now through February 5, 2012 you can get a 12 month subscription to Conversations Magazine for only $19.99, shipping included! (regular price is $24.99 for a yearly subscription). Click here to take advantage of this special deal of the yearly subscription: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=UGNLZPY82FU8J

For more on Conversations Magazine, visit www.conversationsmag.com. On behalf of the entire team that works on Conversations Magazine and its parent company Shadow Play Entertainment, thank you for your support. Without you, none of what we have accomplished would be possible. CONVERSATIONS MAGAZINE: Feeding your love of live!

Cyrus Webb Announces New Talk Show, The Conversation

2011-12-17T18:27:00.001-08:00

When it comes to co-hosted talk shows that mix in a flavor of news, entertainment and guest interviews you already have The View and The Talk. Now Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce the debut of its own talk show geared towards presenting quality programming from the male perspective. Introducing The Conversation, a place were online radio listeners can come and get a mixture of the issues of the day coupled with great conversations with amazing guests.

Created by Conversations LIVE host Cyrus Webb and co-executive produced by Webb and Herschel Dixon, the show will feature four co-hosts (Bigg Marv of A&E's HAMMERTIME, Bruce Tretter of "Quick and Easy Cooking", celebrated comedian Ced Delaney and bestselling author Elliott Katz) who are sure to bring their own perspectives to the table, making for a lively show for listeners of all backgrounds and interests.

The Conversation debuts Sunday, January 8, 2012 @ 6:30p.m. et (5:30p.m. ct/3:30p.m. pt) and can be heard at www.blogtalkradio.com/theconversationshow. "We're really proud of this new addition to the Conversations family," says Webb. "I think listeners will find this to be a great way to finish off the weekend and begin the new week." The show's first guest will be actor/recording artist/author Tray Chaney known for his role as Poot Carr on HBO's The Wire.

For more information about the show or to inquire about being a guest, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.theconversationshow.com.

Cyrus Webb Presents "A Conversations Holiday Special"

2011-12-17T07:37:00.000-08:00

It is the first of its kind for Conversations LIVE: Host Cyrus Webb presents "A Conversations Holiday Special".

Featuring music by recording artists Estee, Abraham McDonald, Fiya and Ju-Taun, Webb hosts a shows full of great music and inspiring messages.

Listen to the show by going to www.tinyurl.com/clholidayspecial.

(Sat. Dec. 3, 2011) Cyrus Webb Presents THE HAMMER

2011-11-28T09:02:00.001-08:00

Conversations Book Club President and host of Conversations LIVE Cyrus Webb presents a free showing of the movie THE HAMMER.
Based on the life of UFC fighter Matt Hamill, THE HAMMER is a coming-of-age-drama about the first deaf wrestler's journey to win a National Collegi...ate Championship. Raised among those with the ability to hear, Matt finds himself no less an outsider amidst the Deaf community. But through sheer determination, he turns what could be a disability into an asset, and in the process, serves as an inspiration for both those who can hear and those who can't.

The film stars deaf actors Russell Harvard (There Will Be Blood) and Shoshannah Stern (Lie To Me, Weeds, Jericho) as Matt Hamill and Kristi Hammill. Written and produced by Joseph McKelheer (Godspeed) the film has swept its festival run, receiving awards at 8 out of 8 festivals.

Webb will be showing the movie at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS ) on Sat. Dec. 3rd beginning at 1p.m. et. The admission is free and attendees are welcome to bring refreshments for themselves. Following the movie, Webb will hold a brief Q&A to discuss what we can learn from the journey of Matt Hamill as we strive to overcome challenges in our own lives.

This is one event you don't want to miss. Find out more about the film at www.thehammerfilm.com. For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.cyruswebbpresents.com.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING...

2011-09-30T02:45:00.000-07:00

Since 2003, Cyrus Webb has been a driving force in the way things are talked about and discussed. As the Creator and Host of Conversations LIVE! Radio and the President of Conversations Book Club, Webb has talked to some of the biggest names in the world as well as emerging voices that are making their mark. At the end of the day, however, he realizes that his success is really because of those who talk with him and those who listen. Here is some of what is being said about the Conversations Brand...

"The service you do for authors and readers is remarkable. We appreciate you." --- John Saul, New York Times Bestselling author of FACES OF FEAR www.johnsaul.com

"Thank you so much for having me on your show to talk about my book The Air Between Us. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Your questions were some of the most insightful that I have been asked." --- Deborah Johnson, author of THE AIR BETWEEN US

"Hey Cyrus, Thanks for another great interview!!! You are always beyond prepared, thought provoking, and dig deeper than any other interviewer. I guess that' s why your such a success!!! Thanks again!!!" Richard Doetsch, bestselling author of Thieves of Darkness and Half Past Dawn www.richarddoetsch.com

"Cyrus is incredible. I was in awe of his talents." --- Dale Garland, author of LETTERS FROM SWEETWATER

"We appreciated all your excellent questions and comments." --- Douglas Preston of bestselling writing duo Preston & Child www.prestonchild.com

"Thanks so much for having me on the show and for such a great interview. You asked really great questions and it was a really fun interview. I’d love to stay in touch!" Margaret Floyd, author of EAT NAKED www.eatnakednow.com

"Thank you so much for inviting me to your show. I enjoyed my first radio interview and I think you made me feel comfortable. You do a great job with all your interviews. I hope I can come back again. All the best in all that you do." --- Miriam Shumba, author of THAT WHICH HAS HORNS www.miriamshumba.com

"So thoroughly impressed with him (Webb), his comments, his questions, his program. Cyrus was as well prepared and as incisive as any interview I’ve had in recent times". " Robert Haas, businessman and author of MIRACLE MAN

"I still don't see how you do what you do! You're an excellent interviewer..." Shirlita McFarland, author of Sunday Morning Secrets www.sundaymorningsecrets.com

"You are a terrific host." Ed Wiseman,Producer/Director of Reading Rainbow

"Please know that your support of my debut novel "Daughter Denied" in 2008 played a major role in my decision to write another novel. I can't tell you how much your encouragement inspired me." --- Alretha Thomas, author of Daughter Denied and Dancing Her Dreams Away http://www.daughterdenied.com/

"Cyrus has taught me that there is no age limitation on growth, achievement, or influence for the good. The interview I did with him gave me the courage to continue writing and creating. I owe him a great deal." Helene Weinberger, author, Ageless Journey

"You had much greater knowledge about the book than most interviewers,
and your questions were very insightful." Robert Whitlow, bestselling author www.robertwhitlow.com

"I appreciate you giving me the opportunity to serve as a panelist for your commemorative discussion on the "I Have a Dream" speech. It was an honor to share my thoughts and ideas with such esteemed group. I wish you continual and abundant success with your show!" Qiana Martin, International Athlete www.qianamartin.com

"Thank you so much for having us back, we love your show and are honored to be a part of it. Also, we greatly appreciate your time and efforts on our behalf. It means a lot to us that there are people such as yourself out there who truly care and appreciate our work." The Lagos Brothers, authors of The Sons of Liberty series

"You are a professional and a gentleman. Thank you so much for the opportunity to share a little bit of my story with your listeners." ---- David A. Ross, author of THE VIRTUAL LIFE OF FIZZY OCEANS

"The great part of the interview was you. Your questions were very germane -- thanks for holding the interview together; I appreciate the opportunity." --- T. Lloyd Winetsky, author of Maria Juana's Gift www.mariasgift.com

"You absolutely ask the best...most thought provoking questions...keep up the excellent work on your show!!!" --- Ish Major, M. D., author of LITTLE WHITE WHYS www.littlewhitewhys.com

"I just had to write to tell you what a pleasure it was speaking with you yesterday. Your questions about The Language of Secrets and its impact on readers were excellent...it was an honor to be interviewed by you! With thanks and all best wishes for your continued success." --- Dianne Dixon, author of THE LANGUAGE OF SECRETS www.diannedixon.com

"Thank you for the interview – it was terrific, and we appreciate being a part of your program. And thanks for the attention you put on books, the arts, and the creative process – you are doing wonderful things!" ---Joel Fotinos, author of THE PRAYER CHEST and the Vice President at Penguin Group and the founder/publisher of the Putnam Praise imprint.

"What a wonderful interview...I told my husband it might have been the best interview yet because of the wonderful, thoughtful questions you asked. Most times I'm interviewed, the host hasn't even picked up the book and it's up to me to try to convey meaning and depth to simple questions. Obviously, your approach
is very different and it made for a very comfortable, "conversational"
experience for me. Thank you!" --- author Janice Van Dyke

"I am deeply grateful for your time with me on the radio... I listened
to your previous shows and I love what an authentic place you come from." author Susanne Alexander-Heaton

"Dear Cyrus, Thank you for taking out the time to review my book on Amazon.com. Most commentators offered one-dimensional readings of my travel memoir. Specifically, they looked at the "The Year of No Money in Tokyo" through the narrow prism of race or, worse, reduced the narrative to sex. But, you have identified the book`s larger themes and have placed the work in a more universal context. I now understand why yours is such a superb reputation." Wayne Aponte, author of The Year Of No Money In Tokyo www.wayneaponte.com

"I am quite inspired by what you are doing through your broadcasting effort... You are truly seeking to help others find the best in themselves. Thank you for your positive influence in a world that needs it." --- Kip Kreiling, author of THE IMPOSTER www.kipkreiling.com

"I wanted to thank you directly for your endless support of up and coming African American authors such as myself. I’m extremely proud of my Author Profile. And let me add, the impact that you are making on the publishing industry is immeasurable." Author Sheryl Mallory-Johnson

"Thank you Cyrus for the wonderful interview! Your skill in posing pertinent questions and moving the conversation forward with finesse was a joy to be a part of. The parts you read of my book were thought provoking and stimulating for myself and the audience. When I forgot the question you were a consummate pro and helped with grace to get me back on track. No doubt I'll see you hosting "Good Morning America" in the future and can say, "I knew him when..." Your the best! Dr. Richard Ragle, author

"It was great talking with you on the radio today. It's so nice to be able to connect with people with a passion for childhood literacy. Thank you again for the wonderful opportunity. I really enjoyed it and I hope that your listeners did, too! Best to you." Sheri Fink, author www.sherifink.com

"You were by far the most thorough with the best questions!" Author Robert Whitlow www.robertwhitlow.com

"Thank you so much for inviting me to your show. I enjoyed my first radio interview; you made me feel very comfortable. I am so honored to be a part of it. I appreciate you letting me share my story with your audience and the book Passion = Success. You're an excellent interviewer... Please know that your support means the world to me. All the best to you!" Author April Pickering www.passionishot.com

"Thank you so much for the interview! Absolutely the best I've had." Author Lesley Kagen www.lesleykagen.com

"Thank you for having me on your show! You asked great questions, which helped me to focus on your audience." Author Eva Mara Mora www.quantumangel.com

"Enjoyed the interview also. I felt as if we were old friends and that you knew me well enough to get me to talk about what was important to me. Your questions were very insightful and guided the interview into some interesting areas." artist Pablo Solomon

"The interview with Kathy Kinney (AKA Mrs. P) was great. It is nice that we have been able to create this new and inspiring character for her. She use to be 'Mimi' on the Drew Carey Show which was a very different character from Mrs. P. Your show is wonderful. I am going to become a regular listener. You have a great gift for interviewing." Dana Plautz, Mrs P Enterprises, LLC www.MrsP.com

"I want to compliment you on your amazing interviewing skills. I have to admit that I was nervous about the visit and you were able to put me at ease immediately. I forgot right away that we were on radio and web and simply enjoyed the visit. You communicated to me an interest about the book and beyond the book an interest in the spoken and written words. I will listen often to your interviews and look forward to our next visit." --- Mary Walker Baron, author of BUT THIS IS DIFFERENT. www.marywalkerbaron.com

"If you haven't been interviewed by Cyrus Webb your book hasn't been reviewed by the "BEST Reviewer"." Lynn Cawthorne, author of Let My People Go

"Ran into (NYT Bestselling author) Spencer Quinn in the hall here at the office and he had such great things to say about your interview with him. He’s not the first author I’ve heard that from. Thank you so much for the great work that you do!" David Brown, Atria Books Deputy Director of Publicity www.simonandschuster.com

"You're such a gifted communicator- made telling our stories so easy. The Lord is using you mightily." Beth Marshall, author A TIME TO HEAL www.atimetohealjournal.com

"You are doing a good work keeping the country informed and remembering the sacrifices." Brian O'Rear, 22 year Air Force Veteran

"As a radio listener, I seldom hear a host ask as many good questions as you did. I was deeply gratified that you enjoyed our book and very appreciative of the opportunity to share it with an audience of fellow southerners." --- Author Barton Cockey www.thepaintedword.info

" I'm much more accustomed to asking the questions than answering them, but you are a wonderful interviewer and I felt completely at ease. Thank you for making this a very memorable experience." --- Tom Walker, author of CONTRARY CREEK www.contrarycreeknovel.com

"I appreciate an interviewer like you who gives the guest plenty of room to speak her mind! I rarely lack for something to say." --- Debbie Jordan, author of The World I Imagine www.imaginetheworldatpeace.com

"Your questions were very refreshing and your show is really good!" --- recording artist Tanya Denise

"You touched on some of the deeper and more subtle themes in the book ; your perception is very astute." Nancy Dobson, author of DUSTING THE GLASS

"You were very well prepared, set a great tone, and went way beyond the call of duty in the promotion department--a real pro. I will sing your praises whenever I get the chance." --- K. D. Koratsky, author of LIVING WITH EVOLUTION OR DYING WITHOUT IT www.livingwithevolution.com

"Thank you for the opportunity to be on your program. You are a scholar and a gentleman, (a vanishing entity) and provide a great service. Having been doing this for a few months now, interviewers fall two categories. The entertainers, and the educators. You are an educator, and that is a complement." --- Danielle Milano,M.D, author of SKINNY IS OVERRATED www.skinnyisoverrated.com

"[Yours] was the most reflective interview I've had yet and it made me recall a little of things that I've done that were beneficial to the people I knew. Maybe I do have some good karma points stored up in the cosmic bank somewhere. I appreciate you picking up on the larger themes in the book." Jake Adelstein, author of TOKYO VICE http://bit.ly/TokyoViceatAmazon

"You made it so easy for me to talk, and you ask great questions!" --- Michele Howe, author of BURDENS DO A BODY GOOD

"You are such a great host. Your voice is so powerful over the radio. Continue to share your talents and knowlege so others may be encouraged." --- Valerie Dodson, author of DON'T DELAY YOUR INCREASE http://www.dontdelayyourincrease.com

"Words are not adequate enough to extend a debt of gratitude to you for all you have done for me. A pen would run out of ink before I could write or say thank you over and over again. You have brought the book back to life or I could even say you have given it life. I have never been this motiviated to get this moving until now. Thanks for working with me."--- Joseph Henderson, author of I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE www.joseph-henderson.com

Cyrus,I just wanted to touch bases with you and offer a heartfelt thank you. It was great to meet the new authors and become reacquainted with familiar faces. You provide a wonderful avenue by which people can be motivated to read. As an educator, I applaud your work. As a writer, I offer much love and appreciation. I love the invitation to join the addiction -- get hooked on books. Keep up the good work.
--- V. L. Green, author of REFLECTIONS and WHEN DESTINIES MEET

"Cyrus - first of all let me tell you how touched I was when I read your
review of Beat on Amazon. Thank you so, so much. I also really enjoyed the interview. I think you've got a great thing going. I love how you emphasize human accomplishment over the difficult struggles we have in our lives. I'm really glad we met and that I got the chance to discover your site and your unique perspective. Thanks again for introducing me to your fans." --- Stephen Jay Schwartz, author of BEAT www.stephenjayschwartz.com

"I truly think you are a wonderful host who asked great questions... I appreciate your giving me an opportunity to expose my book to the public and to your book club clientele." --- Rebecca Hayes, author of PRIVATE CATHAY'S SECRET

“Cyrus is truly – without a doubt – the way a host should be!" --- Fashion designer Jorge' Perez

"A big double thank you to you, first for the wonderful interview. You got done in ten minutes what other people do in half an hour, and BETTER, with focus and a distinct angle. I was just thrilled with it, and so was my husband, who was listening. He'll post it on my website etc. and I'll send it around. Thank you for that really perceptive prep, and thanks for picking up on my answers. I really felt it was a dialog AND an interview." --- Molly Peacock, author THE PAPER GARDEN www.mollypeacock.org

"Cyrus: Just wanted to say that I thoroughly enjoyed our chat this afternoon. I really appreciate your interest in my novel and the positive things you had to say about it during the interview. I also want to commend you on both the insight and professionalism you demonstrated during the interview. You made it very easy and comfortable for a rookie like me! Thanks again." --- Joseph Hayes, author of WHEN NO ONE IS WATCHING

"Your review (of ABRAMO'S GIFT) was unique in that you distilled a life lesson from the story, something that no reviewer has done. You focused upon some essence from the characters that, frankly, I had never thought about consciously, but I'm very gratified that you saw it. By the way, yours is the mark of a fine writer/reviewer. I wish that they were all as perceptive as you are. Where I come from, when someone does something as well as you, and when a young person shows the potential that you do, we say he's doing 'the Lord's work.' I have listened to our interview several times now, and have also shared it with some family and friends. And each time I hear it, I marvel at your mastery of interviewing technique. It is certainly something that is a talent, because I’ve seen many veterans of broadcasting not able to accomplish what you do so naturally and easily. Part of the success you have comes from your gentlemanly behavior that puts interviewees at ease. So thanks again for your kind treatment. I wish you all the best in whatever you do in your career, be it hosting of a book club, interviewing on national TV, writing books yourself, or some dream you hold in your secret heart." --- Don Greco, author of ABRAMO'S GIFT

"What a gentle and lovely, thoughtful host you are. And you threaded through the questions in the most amazing way..." Liz Rosenberg, author of HOME REPAIR

"It was such a pleasure talking with you, such a pleasure being presented with such thoughtful questions. That doesn't happen terribly often and I was sorry when it drew to a close." --- Philip Shepherd, author of NEW SELF NEW WORLD www.philipshepherd.com

"You are by far the most prepared host I have interviewed with." --- Kirk Wilkinson, author of THE HAPPINESS FACTOR www.thehappinessfactor.com

"Thanks Cyrus for using your influence to better the lives of others." --- Patricia Singleton, blogger http://patriciasingleton.blogspot.com

"Cyrus Webb is the most incredible person I've ever done an interview with! He understood my topic completely, and asked very insightful and perceptive questions!" --- Dan L. Hays, author of FREEDOM'S JUST ANOTHER WORD www.danlhays.com

"It is really refreshing to encounter an interviewer with his
intelligence, insights and who has actually read the book. I knew
nothing of him before this interview but I am completely impressed and
will keep an eye out for his undoubted career progress." --- Frederick LaCroix, author of THE SKY RAINED HEROES

"Being self-published. credibility means everything. Having me on your show and supporting me as you have is all part of that." --- Gary D. Kaschak, author of LIFESTONE http://www.garydkaschak.com

"Thank you from the "Bottom Of My Heart" for taking time out of your busy schedule to write the most inspirational "Review" for "The Bridge" on Amazon.com, and thank you once again for enabling me to share our "Miracle". May God continue to Bless you Cyrus and the work that you are doing on His behalf." --- Jackie Carpenter, author of "The Bridge"

" Since our first interview, I've been following on your website all that you are doing for literacy to the point that I have been inspired to put in my little grain of rice towards literacy as well." --- Susan Violante, author of INNOCENT WAR http://www.innocentwar.com

"Congratulations on your growing success! You certainly deserve it." --- Nesta Aharoni, author of MY GOODNESS: MY KIDS www.grassrootspublishinggroup.com

"Cyrus is an inspirational hardworker who believes in the importance of literacy awareness. I was able to be one of Cyrus's coordinators for his National Day of Reading campaign in November 2009. It was a great experience and I am happy to be on board again for 2010. Cyrus uses his platform as an advocate and radio host to spread positive messages and to make a difference. I would suggest him to anyone serious about making a change through in the field of literacy development." --- Tara Michener, author of WHO I AM NOT WHAT I AM

"It’s a pleasure to work with a professional who’s nicely prepared, with thoughtful questions and a great personality." --- David Kelly, author of BABE RUTH AND THE BASEBALL CURSE www.baberuthcurse.com

"There is something so amazing about standing on the edge of your dreams coming true. It's awe-inspiring, it's overwhelming and humbling. I want to thank you so much for taking part in my dream. I've listened to your other interviews and I think you are a special man." --- Kim Vazquez, author of LIVING IN THE REAR VIEW MIRROR

"Thank you soooo much for allowing me to come on your show! It was an awesome
experience. I said I was nervous at first but you made me feel at ease. I can tell you got something from the book and read! I really hope that you were touched by it! Thanks for bringing out the part Mark 8:36!! Very impressive interview! May God Bless You and all your efforts!!" --- Cheryl Joyner Clark, author of NO MORE SUNDAY MORNINGS www.cheryljoyner-clark.com

"I have and will continue to sing your praises to all of my literary colleagues. Your book club is a model for others to emulate."
--- Reshonda Tate Billingsley, author of MY BROTHER'S KEEPER & EVERYBODY SAY AMEN. www.reshondatatebillingsley.com

"You were an excellent host. I'm more accustomed to interviewing than being interviewed but I did enjoy it. You're a very articulate and thorough interviewer..." Constantine Markides, host of Fourth Fiction www.fourthnight.com

"You are an impressive young man. I am passing my baton to you, now. I know you'll carry it fast into the second decade of the 21st century. 'Webb's WEBISODES!' 'Do the WRITE Thang!' Man, I love it! SUPER CYRUS WEBB is a YOUNG CAPED CRUSADER who has absolutely blown this OLD caped crusader's MIND!" Dr. John Telford, author of A LIFE ON THE RUN www.alifeontherun.com

"You're always so cool, calm, collected and prepared..." Gail Kearns, To Press & Beyond www.topressandbeyond.com

"You are a phenomenal host and I know you have a very promising future." --- Lessy'B, author of Sara's Song www.lessyb.net

"Thanks for the interview and review... You are a pro and not only did I enjoy the experience, I was very impressed at the effort you put into reading and understanding my stories. As you well, know, that is the salve that soothes the writer's worries! You earned a big fan today...I'll pass the word
far and wide! All the best." --- Gerry Boylan, author of GETTING THERE and GERRY TALES www.gerryboylan.com

"Cyrus, you are on the fast track to success!" --- Deborah Gary, author of TEENAGE MOTHER'S GUIDE TO SURVIVAL www.writingitright.com

"Enjoyed very much the questions you asked, which were quite thought-provoking and very different from the usual stuff that I get asked in interviews." --- Bestselling author William Kent Krueger www.williamkentkrueger.com

"Cyrus, I don't know how many ways I can say, "Thank you!" But, consider yourself thanked in every way that is possible. In addition to this interview which you presented so well the live interview I had with you,and your bookclub tonight was nothing short of amazing. The depths, and insights of tonight's conversation were just much more than I could have hoped or asked for. I ask a special blessing for you."
--- Evie Rhodes, author of OUT A ORDER & THE FORGOTTEN SPIRIT www.evierhodes.com

"Hello Cyrus, I loved doing the interview and thoroughly enjoyed talking with you.
You're a wonderful host and the interview is only as good as the host who is directing it." --- Carrie J. Keaton, author of TWO LOVES, ONE HEART www.carriejkeaton.com

"Real talk, Cyrus has the best author blog talk radio show out there." --- Rahman Muhammad, founder of Book Bullies

"I want to thank you so very much for giving me the opportunity to appear on your show. It was an honor to be part of Conversations Live, a show that consistently offers listeners meaningful content. You provide encouragement, contemplation and inspiration to your audiences. For me, your questions and the opportunity have allowed me to improve and grow. Thank you!" Cesca Janece Waterfield, author of BARTUB www.twohandedengine.net

"You're an awesome radio host." --- Ursula Hanks, author of IN MY HEART

"Cyrus, I want to thank you once again for featuring me on your radio show. I really enjoyed it. I do not take that moment lightly. I count it a privledge and an honor to be chosen in that capacity. You are making an awesome impact in many lives with your great works. It is my prayer that God richly bless you in all you are doing to bring about change and make a difference in this world." --- Charmaine Tucker, author of WHAT ABOUT THE CHILDREN http://charmainetuckerministries.com

"First of all let me start out by saying how grateful I am for all that you and Conversations Book Club has done for me as a writer. You guys are the best!" --- C. J. Domino, author of SIDELINE HO www.cjdomino.com

Media Personality Cyrus Webb Addresses Eating Disorder In New Article

2011-09-16T05:30:00.000-07:00

On Conversations LIVE radio show and through Conversations Magazine media personality Cyrus Webb discusses a variety of topics with his guests including overcoming challenges and personal demons. Through the discussions, however, the attention rarely goes to Webb himself. Now for the first time in six years the Mississippi native addresses his own battle with eating disorders publicly.

"I have always seen Conversations as a way to share the stories of others, not my own," says Webb, 36. "Though many of them are discussing issues that I can't personally relate to, I know what it's like to struggle with a problem that threatens to destroy you." In an article published by Frugivore Magazine this week Webb talks about how his own perception of himself and weight led to him embarking on a dangerous journey. (Read the article here: http://frugivoremag.com/2011/09/black-men-and-eating-disorders/ )

The first time Webb talked about his struggle with an eating disorder was in 2005 on what was then Conversations with C. A. Webb on WMPR 90.1 FM out of Jackson, MS. "People got to know about my fight through some of the poetry I had shared at some of my events," says Webb. "That year I had begun to exercise more and as a result I lost some weight. Some thought that the weight-loss was because I had relapsed. Though I don't normally feel the need to address everything I hear about myself, I thought it was important to address it publicly. The radio show was the perfect spot."

Webb admits that being in the public brings attention to what you look like no matter what your sex or race. He hopes the article will help people to appreciate that some struggles transcends those things. It's up to us to address them and help others do the same.

To keep up with what's next for Webb and Conversations visit http://cawebbonline.blogspot.com.

Cyrus Webb Announces The Return of Online Book Club In Oct. 2011

2011-09-14T10:38:00.001-07:00

When Conversations Book Club began in November 2006 it was with three members and a telephone. The co-ed reading group started in Mississippi by Cyrus Webb and founding member Stanley Clark was designed as a place where readers of all backgrounds could come together and discuss books directly with the author present either on a conference call or in person. It quickly grew from there to meetings in Memphis, New Orleans and Montgomery, all following the same pattern.

Cyrus Webb is pleased to announce the return of such book discussion with the re-launch of the online chapter of Conversations Book Club in October. The weekly meetings will be Saturdays @ 7p.m. et(6p.m. ct/4p.m. pt) beginning Sat. October 1, 2011, and will be open to anyone who would like to join the conversation. At the scheduled time interested parties will simply visit www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive to talk with the author via the message board or join the discussion over the phone by calling 347.426.3645. The author of the book will be a part of the discussion the entire hour and answer YOUR QUESTIONS with Webb serving as the moderator.

The first book the reading group will discuss is GEORGIA JUSTICE by author Jackie Carpenter. Below are the books and authors joining this special book club in the upcoming weeks:

10/01 --- "Georgia Justice" by Jackie Carpenter
10/08 --- "Destined To Live, Despite Me" by Yolanda Shanks
10/15 --- "Something Inside Of Me" by Chitoka Webb
10/22 --- "Teenie" by Christopher Grant
10/29 --- "My Daddy The Devil and Me" by Debra Ann Brown-Davis
11/05 --- "The Playful and Powerful Warrior Within You!" by GJ Reynolds
11/12 --- "What A Wonderful World" by Ricki Riccardi
11/19 --- "Incognito" by Michael Sidney Fosberg
11/26 --- "Manufacturing Hysteria" by Jay Feldman
12/17 --- "Louisa" by Richard Emmel

Make plans now to attend these special meetings either online or by phone. It is the hope of Cyrus Webb and Conversations Book Club that each week will be an opportunity for you not only to get your questions answered but to introduce those who "attend" to new authors and fellow readers.

For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

Cyrus Webb Celebrates 400th Radio Show Of 2011 With 9/11 Tribute

2011-09-12T03:27:00.000-07:00

(Monday, September 12, 2011) Cyrus Webb, host of Conversations LIVE celebrated his 400th radio interview of 2011 on Sunday, September 11, 2011 with his special edition of Inspirational Conversations called "America Remembers: A 9/11 Tribute (Part 2).

"It was a powerful show not just because of the milestone for the show but for what it meant for the country and the world," says Webb, 36. The date marked the 10 year anniversary of the horrific terrorist attack on American soil, and it was Webb's goal to use the weekend not just for reflection but to encourage his listeners to find their own meaning for themselves. "We have the gift of life," he says. "That's something we can't take for granted. We have to make sure we are living each day to the fullest not just for ourselves but those around us."

On the show during the special program Webb spoke with author Walter Meyer who lost a childhood friend in the first plane that hit the World Trade Center Towers. He also spoke with recording artist and native New Yorker Tomas Doncker about how the day affected him. Both were powerful yet inspring conversations.

To listen to the show visit www.tinyurl.com/americaremembers2. This was the 2nd of 3 discussions that Webb hosted over the weekend. If you missed the first one with a terrific panel of individuals who all used the events of 9/11 to make changes in their lives visit www.tinyurl.com/americaremembers. The final part of the series took place Sunday evening with Brian O'Rear, a 22 year Air Force Veteran who was involved in the War on Terror. You can hear his conversation at www.tinyurl.com/americaremembers3.

To date Webb has hosted over 1500 shows since Conversations LIVE began in July 2003. Do you have a story to tell? Contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can listen to past shows and get updates to Conversations LIVE at www.conversationsliveradio.com.

Media Personality Cyrus Webb Named Top 1000 Reviewer By Amazon.com

2011-08-21T20:35:00.001-07:00

Out of the tens of thousands of reviews posted by individuals on Amazon.com each day, media personality and Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb has been named one of the popular site's Top 1000 Reviewers.

"This honor is just a testament to how serious I take the sharing of books," says Webb, 36. "I don't just read for myself. I read so that I will be able to share what I am learning and enjoying with others."

Webb has posted over 600 reviews of books and music on www.tinyurl.com/cyruswebbreviews, and people of all walks of life are finding his thoughts both helpful and intrumental in sparking discussions. Amazon.com has also helped Webb in being able to find guests that he can feature on Conversations LIVE Radio, through Conversations Magazine as well as for his book club.

"People notice those that are recognized on Amazon," Webb says. "They reach out to us because our opinions are respected, and they know that others are paying attention to what we have to say."

Webb hopes that he can continue to introduce the world to new books as well as give a different perspective to books that might not normally catch the attention of readers.

For more information about Webb and the work he is doing to promote literacy through Conversations Book Club visit www.thebestbookclub.info. If you would like to contact Cyrus Webb directly you can reach him at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

(Sat. August 27, 2011) Conversations Book Club and Cyrus Webb Host "Breakfast with Books"

2011-08-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

(Saturday, August 27, 2011 *Brandon, MS) Conversations Book Club and its founder Cyrus Webb are committed to promoting the power of books and self-esteem when it comes to today's youth. They are also intersted in promoting a healthier lifestyle. For this reason on Saturday, August 27, 2011 from 9-10:30a.m. Webb and members of the book club will be enjoying the delicious breakfast memu at Subway Restaurant Crossgates (112 Service Drive * Brandon, MS) but also giving out 50 free copies of the entertaining children's book TOO TALL ALICE written by author Barbara Worton.

"Too Tall Alice is just the kind of book to encourage our youth that they are special just the way they are," says Webb, 36. "When I started Conversations Book Club in November 2006 I wanted it to be a place where everyone could find something that fit their lives no matter where they are. For young people I think Too Tall Alice accomplishes that and more."

There is no purchase necessary to get your free copy of this great book, however, Webb invites anyone to join the book club and him in having breakfast and socializing with the group. For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or at 601.896.5616. To foind out more information about other events hosted by Conversations Book Club visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

CONVERSATIONS: Feeding Your Love Of Life!

Cyrus Webb Asks: Is Conversations Magazine Feeding Your Love Of Life?

2011-07-11T11:09:00.000-07:00

From the time it relaunched in December 2010, Conversations Magazine has been making a name for itself by offering not just insightful interviews and discussions but extras such as motivational messages, delicious recipes, commentaries and entertainment news suitable for members of the entire family.

Today Conversations Magazine has over 1000 subscribers in 4 countries, and the momentum seems to be growing with each week. Editor-In-Chief Cyrus Webb and the team that brings the magazine to life each week have a simple question for you: Is Conversations Magazine feeding yoru love of life?

If not, make sure you subscribe today! Each issue is only $6.99 with shipping included or take advantage of the best deal of getting 12 issues for the low price of $24.99, shipping included. That is less than $3 an issue!

Those who subscribe to Conversations Magazine before July 15th also get the Conversations Magazine special edition called MODEL CITIZENS.
It will feature 50 individuals that we believe are showcasing qualities that should be encouraged and appreciated. Though the majority of those in the special issue are rising stars, there are also interviews with well-known movers and shakers as well. (For more information about the special edition, visit www.conversationsmodelcitizens.com.)

To get your single issues of Conversations Magazine or the yearly subscription today, simply visit www.conversationsmag.com. Issues mail out on the 20th of each month.

Advertising is also easy with Conversations Magazine. For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or visit www.conversationsmag.com.

On behalf of the entire team that works on Conversations Magazine and its parent company Shadow Play Entertainment, thank you for your support. Without you, none of what we have accomplished would be possible. CONVERSATIONS MAGAZINE: Feeding your love of live!

Author, Poet April Mahoney To Interview Media Mogul Cyrus Webb

2011-06-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release
Contact: April Mahoney, 619-573-5532 or info@agoodperson.biz

Author, Poet April Mahoney To Interview Media Mogul Cyrus Webb

(San Diego, CA)---San Diego author, poet, and community activist April Mahoney has been selected to interview media mogul Cyrus A. Webb for his 8th anniversary of his BlogTalk radio show Conversations Live on Sunday, July 3rd, at 6:30p.m. est (5:30p.m. cst/3:30p pst).

Often referred to as the "Male Oprah", Cyrus Webb is a Mississippi-based nationally-renowned author, magazine publisher, and radio and television host who works
daily to encourage, inspire and learn. To learn more about Cyrus Webb and his
Conversation Brand visit http://cawebbonline.blogspot.com.

The Conversations Live radio show can be accessed online at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive. For more information about author April Mahoney, visit www.agoodperson.biz or call 619-573-5532

(June 15, 2011) What's New With Shadow Play Entertainment

2011-06-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

(June 15, 2011) The month of June has come in and been a busy one for Shadow Play Entertainment as it continues to grow, inspire and change to fit the needs of its new audience. Here are some of the things you should know about...

The next edition of Conversations Magazine is available for purchasing. It features interviews with author Larry Wilson, recording artist Dashawn, new commentary from Helene Weinberger, profiles of Two Out Of Three and a new section called "Model Citizen".
The magazine is only $6.99, shipping included or you can get your 12 issue 1 year subscription for only $24.99. For details visit www.conversationsmag.com.

Conversations LIVE Radio recently celebrated its 250th show this year and its 1400th show since it began airing in July 2003. Host Cyrus Webb is excited about the upcoming anniversary and invites you all to stay tuned to the program as it continues to connect you with the artists and authors you love who give you the music and books you can't get enough of.

(Sat. June 18, 2011) In Mississippi author Alean McIntyre Adams will be signing her new book WAY BEYOND PISGAH at the Milestone Christian Bookstore in Brandon/Pearl from 11-1p.m. on Sat. June 18, 2011.

(Tues. June 28, 2011) Shadow Play Entertainment is working with the state of Mississippi in hosting New York Times Bestselling author Wahida Clark in her first visit to Mississippi on Tues. June 28, 2011.
There will be events all day, and the full schedule can be found at www.thebestbookclub.info.

(Wed. June 29, 2011) Mississippi native Cyrus Webb (aka C. A. Webb) will be hosting his first art show and poetry reading of the year on Wed. June 29, 2011.
This will be held at the Pearl Public Library beginning at 3p.m. Admission to events are free.

Lots of new things are also in the works for M. Beatryce Shaw and other members of the Shadow Play Entertainment family. To stay updated make sure you visit www.shadowplayent.com. For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. CONVERSATIONS: Feeding your love of live!

REVIEW: "Living Oprah" by Robyn Okrant

2011-04-23T12:58:00.000-07:00

With the Oprah Winfrey Show officially ending in May 2011, all eyes are on the woman who has been inspiring those in the world to live their best life for the past 25 years. Among those who have been influenced by the Queen of Talk is Chicago residENT Robyn Okrant. Through her book LIVING OPRAH she takes us into what it means to follow the suggestions of Ms. O and how it may just lead to the life we were destine for all along. (* NOTE: Cyrus Webb interviewed author Robyn Okrant on Conversations LIVE! Radio in January 2010 about Oprah and the book. You can listen at this link, http://tobtr.com/s/824263 )

After seeing Robyn Okrant featured on the CNBC special THE OPRAH EFFECT, I was eagerly awaiting her book of the experiment. So many times you hear people talking about slivers of what the Queen of Talk suggests for living your best life, but here was someone who was taking everything Oprah said and applying it as real guidlines in life.

What was the result?

It took me a day and a half to read LIVING OPRAH, and I closed the book with a smile thinking of the many lessons I took in through Robyn's journey along the way. Yes, the account is about what Oprah says, but isn't the real test of any minister, speaker or individual who is considered an authority on a subject whether or not what they say really works for YOU? That was the day-to-day struggle for Robyn. You can be given all the tools in the world, but it is about how you apply them that makes the difference.

As a fellow creative, I appreciated the way Robyn took to the experiment with great thought. What were the pros and cons physically, financially and quite frankly emotionally? How would it affect her relationship with those in her life, especially her husband (I'll come back to him later)? What if people misunderstood her goal?

Robyn approached the answers to these questions in a way that was deliberate and cautious of the possible side effects. There were many things she liked that were praised by Oprah. When it came to issues of conflict and conscience,however,such as the lessons of The Secret, we see Robyn weigh it against her own beliefs. There were moments when she also seem to realize that by taking this year-long journey, she was going to be noticed. There was a situation when she came literally face-to-face with herself on public transportation, and seemed to realize that not all would view what she was doing as something worthwhile.

Speaking of being noticed, I think all would agree that Oprah garnering success and fame is why a project like this is interesting at all. It stands to reason that anyone who would take up living the life that Oprah encourages would also get attention for doing so; but when the media comes calling to Robyn, she has to decide how much of this attention does she actually want for herself.

I mentioned Robyn's husband earlier, and I honestly believe that the experiment would not have worked if he was not only accepting and supportive but in many ways affected by it as well. I can relate to him personally, because as a man---a gender that seems not to be as much a part of Oprah's audience for tips on living---I can say that a woman who has overcame challenges, followed her dreams and is enjoying the reward, is just as much a catalyst for me to learn from as anyone else. That brings me to my biggest takeaway. I feel that what was impressed upon her husband the most was what this journey was doing to Robyn, how it was making her feel and look at life---not so much who was responsible for it (Oprah). He was her cheerleader, there on the frontline wanting her to succeed as much as she wanted to succeed.

With that I would say that LIVING OPRAH is proof to me that we are only living our best life when we are living the life right for us. Not all of us can do, say or afford the same things, but we have to be willing to do what we can with what we have and expect the most from that. Look at Robyn. She is a published author, making a difference doing what she enjoys. That is all that matters.

LIVING is the big lesson, and I think that Robyn Okrant has shown and taught that well.

--- Cyrus Webb, Conversations Book Club/Conversations LIVE! Radio www.cyruswebb.com

(Tues. March 15, 2011) Book Club Donates To Peace Corps Drive

2011-03-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

What's New With Shadow Play Entertainment

2011-03-15T10:31:00.001-07:00

(Tuesday, March 15, 2011) Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce some of the exciting events that have been going on over the past several weeks that you might have missed.

First off, Conversations Book Club and president Cyrus Webb would like to thank author Jennifer Luckett for allowing it to host a booksigning for her at the Pearl Public Library on Sat. March 12, 2011 for her book CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE. It was a lot of fun, and joining the event were authors Reiko Brown and Alean McIntyre Adams.

Next, Cyrus Webb was a guest on Fox 40 and Friends in Jackson, MS on Monday, March 14, 2011 to discuss Conversations Book Club and how it is uniting authors with readers. Watch the video by visiting this link (http://www.my601.com/content/fox40andfriends/default.aspx?videoId=3734) and clicking on the "Cyrus Webb" video on the right.

On Tuesday, March 15, 2011 the Rankin Ledger Newspaper gave a shout-out to Conversations Book Club for its $500 donation of books to the Peace Corps work in Costa Rica. You can read the feature here: http://www.rankinledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110315/NEWS/103150306

Pulitzer Prize Winners Speak To Conversations LIVE

2011-03-09T10:24:00.000-08:00

For Mississippi native Cyrus Webb one of the most gratifying parts of hosting Conversations LIVE since July 2003 has been the wide range of people he has interviewed. Whether they are authors, recording artists, actors, directors, community leaders or just interesting people with a story to tell, Webb has done his best to give his audience and the guest a platform like no other.

As the 35 year old gears up for the 8th anniversary of the nationally recognized radio show, he is pleased to recognize some of the literary giants he has had the pleasure of talking with over the years, namely the Pulitzer Prize winners.

They come from all backgrounds and interests, but the one thing that they all have in common is their love of the written word...
In November 2008, Cyrus Webb talked with author Douglas Blackmon about his book SLAVERY BY ANOTHER NAME. You can listen to the interview here.

In October 2009, Cyrus Webb welcomed author Tim Page to the show to discuss his book PARALLEL PLAY. You can listen to the interview here.

In May 2010, Cyrus Webb talked with author Joseph Hallinan about his book WHY WE MAKE MISTAKES. You can listen to the interview here.

In October 2010, Webb talks with Washington Post columnist and author Eugene Robinson about his book DISINTEGRATION. You can listen to the interview here.

In February 2011, Webb talked with author Isabel Wilkerson about her book THE WARMTH OF OTHER Suns and how the project changed her life. You can listen to the interview here.

To stay abreast of who is conversing with Webb next bookmark www.conversationsliveradio.com.

BOOK REVIEW: "Come Sunday Morning" by Terry E. Hill

2011-01-24T02:57:00.001-08:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Book Club/ www.conversationsmag.com

After an almost eight year hiatus, author Terry E. Hill returns to the literary scene with what is a complete literary treat: Come Sunday Morning. While his first novel (Inside The Fall) took us into the complicated and sometimes corrupted world of politics, Hill's sophomore offering leads us right into the church and the double life of celebrated Pastor Hezekiah T. Cleaveland. He seems to have it all: a massive and adoring congregation as well as a equally compelling wife and beautiful daughter, but as in so many cases in life, nothing is ever as it appears to be.

Though the back cover explains a great deal of what the book is about, Hill once again gives us a backstory and character development that makes him such a gifted storyteller. You see, not only is Pastor Cleaveland being unfaithful to the vows he made to his wife and the church, he is being just as unfaithful to himself. In his quest to have everything that he wants, he loses himself and becomes a mirror that reflects the hopes and aspirations of others.

Ironically,though, it is during his unfaithfulness that the Pastor is able to finally admit the truth. "I've never loved anyone, or even myself, as much as I love you," he says to his lover. "No one has ever forced me to look beyond myself and my own needs or my own ego...You've made me realize I've never really cared for anyone and didn't think I had the capacity to. My world has always been about me, and what I desired more than life itself. I wanted power and all that came with it---fame, wealth, and respect. Well, I've done it. I have it all, and when I got it, I began to hate myself more than I had ever hated my worst enemy. All I could see staring back at me in the mirror was a hollow, lonely man who had traded his soul just to be recognized when he walked down the street..."

What a remarkable confession, and it is one that no matter what your profession many can relate to. How many of us have given up what we really want just to go after what we feel like will make us look the best to the world. Pastor Cleaveland showcases that not only do we have the potential to destroy ourselves but those that we have involved in our facade of a life---sometimes with irreversible consequences. It is also important to realize that with much of life, what's done in the dark will ultimately come to the light.

Come Sunday Morning is just the kind of book we needed to start off the year, not just because it is an entertaining read, but as any literary work worth its salt, it sparks a much-needed discussion. Kudos to Terry E. Hill for once again showcasing that some things get better with age. This is a book that will be talked about for some time to come.

To find out more about the author, visit www.terryehill.com.

* Read Webb's first interview with Terry E. Hill here.

Alean McIntyre Adams: Traveling Through Pisgah and Beyond

2011-01-21T09:19:00.000-08:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Book Club/Conversations Magazine

At the age of 75, Mississippi author Alean McIntyre Adams has seen more than her fair share of change in Mississippi and around the world. In her new book WAY BEYOND PISGAH, she takes readers into the journey that has been her life and allows us to see how the events she has lived through have shaped the woman she has become.

While talking with Adams, it is impossible to deny her excitement for life. She explained to me that she was always a person who questioned things instead of just accepting whatever she was told. "I knew there had to be a better way of life," she says. "God wouldn't want it to be that way."

"That way" growing up was in a segregated world in Mississippi. She saw alot of prejudice, but thanks to strong people like her mother around her, the young girl knew that better days were possible. "My mother told me that we could do anything," she reflects, and that was something that she never forget.

Throughout her childhood and into her adulthood, Alean Adams fought against the challenges she was faced with and realized what was possible with hard work and dedication. To her, though, she was just doing what she knew was right. "I was doing what I did for my family and to make the world a better place," she told me. She hopes her book will allow younger generations to see that progress that has been made, what it took to bring about change and realize their role in keeping it going.

An important chapter in Adams' life was her work in the Civil Rights movement. The reader gets a chance to see why some felt the need to speak up and out about the injustice they saw, and the results of such action. You are also able to see how fear of the unknown kept others from moving forward. In the end, though, it is a culmination of all of the events of her life that makes Alean who she is.

And the meaning of the book title? In the book the author tells of an experience when she was visiting a doctor and he commented on her use of correct English. In the exchange with her he made the statement that she probably hadn't been away from Pisgah. Today the author has been far from Pisgah, traveling around the world, and that is what is possible for others to attain as well.

Adams doesn't allow others to dictate the course of her life. She realizes that she has the power to bring about the life she wants. What better message than that to share with others!

For more information about Alean McIntyre Adams and her book, contact her at 601.829.2702.

In Mississippi the book can be found at Milestone Christian Bookstore in Pearl, MS and available to everyone by mail order.

Recording artist Thoroughbred: Using Music To Drive Into Her Destiny

2011-01-18T16:19:00.001-08:00

by Cyrus Webb

Her lyrical journey began in 2001 with poetry and storytelling. Now recording artist Toya Stevenson known musically as Thoroughbred is determined to make her mark as a serious artist making serious moves.

Talking with her you get a feel of not just her confidence but her determination,too. Thoroughbred says her love of music began at the age of two. "Music was something that soothes me then and still does today," she says. "It is one thing that has never let me down."

What started as an outlet for her personal feelings took on a larger meaning when she saw the way her words and music affected other people. "So many people who I thought were perfect were just like me," she says. "That is when I knew I was making a difference. I was able to see that through music I could help other people realize that they weren't alone. There are literally people all around the world that share the same problems and feelings."

At a time when the music industry is hearing the likes of Nikki Minaj, Trina, Angie Stone and more, Thoroughbred feels that such a strong female influence is a positive, not a negative. "When you have so many influences, it's easier to be yourself," she says. "Each person in the game right now is a little different, but they each play a different part in my life. I am able to stay different just by being honest and expressing myself. I'm willing to put myself out there. The women artists that came out before me have actually made it easier. They have broken down some doors that we up-and-coming artists couldn't have done. That's why I feel we owe them so much gratitude."

Over the years, Thoroughbred has not just shared her love of music and her voice with the world. She has given her heart as well. In September 2007 she founded a biker group called Biker Buddies Motorcyle Club which now has 12 members. "We're really more than just female bikers," says Thoroughbred. "I feel that we should be called an empowerment group, because we all feed into each other. Six of the women are entreprenuers, two are educators and two provide health care services. All collectively make up one powerful spirit."

Thoroughbred believes there is a larger message that the group provides. "We help each other," she says. "If women come together we can do anything. With enough women, we can get things done. This goes beyond the biking. It's about what each person brings to the table, not just for ourselves but the next generations to come."

Of all the endeavors she is involved in, what is one of Thoroughbred's goals for 2011? "I want at least 5 million people to hear one of my songs," she says. That's my goal. Regardless of what else comes my way though, I am living out my dream. It doesn't matter how big or small it may look to others. I think it is all about being happy doing what you are doing, and I am happy."

Singles to look out for are "I Got This" which is about overcoming obstacles in your life and "I Miss You."

To find out more about Thoroughbred, visit www.uncagedent.com. She can also be reached by email at thoroughbredmusik@gmail.com. For information on bookings or appearances, contact Stanley Clark at 1.773.315.9286 or call 601.497.1985.

Young Money's Lil' Chuckee Visit Mississippi To Promote Reading

2011-01-12T09:14:00.001-08:00

(Wednesday, January 12, 2011) Kernell Reynolds of TRU Records and Lil' Chuckee of Cash Money's Young Money have teamed up with Shadow Play Entertainment's literacy campaign Hip Hop and Books (www.hiphopandbooks.net) to encourage the importance of reading. As part of the partnership, both Reynolds and Lil' Chuckee will be visiting Mississippi Feb. 23-25, 2011 to promote the importance of reading among public school students and even on college campuses.

"It's great to have public figures like these two sharing the importance of reading," says Cyrus Webb, Founder of the Hip Hop and Books coalition. Webb,a Mississippi native has hosted several other events with the literacy campaign including with Platinum-selling recording artist/bestselling author Corey "C-Murder" Miller. "I think Kernell and Lil' Chuckee's willingness to come to our state and show that it is cool to read no matter what profession you choose is important."
Reynolds, who has been a part of the Hip Hop and Books coalition since 2007, agrees with Webb. "It's a known fact that young people look up to those in the entertainment community, especially those in music," he says. "Lil' Chuckee and I realize the influence we have, and we want to make sure we are using our celebrity for good."

For interviews and more details about the trip, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Organizations and businesses looking to partner with TRU Records and Lil' Chuckee in the Mississippi trip in sponsorship opportunities can contact Kernell Reynolds at kernellstacks@gmail.com or 504.915.8581. Additional information about Hip Hop and Books can be found at www.hiphopandbooks.net.

Author Jackie Carpenter's Visit To MS: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2011-01-09T04:35:00.001-08:00

(Saturday, January 8, 2011) Day two with author Jackie Carpenter completed what was an amazing visit of inspiration, hope and the assurance of the light at the end of the tunnel of whatever we are going through.

NOTE: If you missed the report from Day 1 of Jackie's visit to Mississippi, read it here: http://conversationsbookclub.blogspot.com/2011/01/frijan-7-2011-cbc-report-author-jackie.html

Cyrus Webb of Conversations Book Club began the day at the Crossgates area Subway Restaurant discussing the message of Carpenter's book THE BRIDGE and the importance of faith when it comes to challenges in life.

Joining the conversation was long-time friend of the book club Jennifer Vess.

From there it was on the Pearl Public Library where for two straight hours, Jackie was able to meet patrons and library employees, sharing her book and what she hopes they take away from it.

OVER 30 COPIES of THE BRIDGE made its way into the hands of individuals who seemed excited to not only meet the author but take home something that could help them as they deal with their own problems in life.

Conversations Book Club wishes to personally thank Ramesh Gajjar and the staff at Subway Crossgates in Brandon, the staff of the Pearl Public Library, book club supporter Annette Brown and all those who made day two of this literary event a success.

To find out more about Jackie and her book, visit www.bridgetoamiracle.com. To stay abreast of other events hosted by Conversations Book Club, visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

Cyrus Webb Named New Entertainment Editor For SDA Network

2011-01-08T09:52:00.000-08:00

CHICAGO (SDA) — Mississippi-based Cyrus Webb, also known as C. A. Webb, has joined the SDA Network News staff as Entertainment Editor, covering news and events pertaining to celebrities and entertainers. In addition, Webb’s Conversations LIVE! Internet radio show will be linked directly to SDA Network News.
Webb, a popular Mississippi native, has been involved in the arts for more than a decade as a visual-literary artist, poet, radio and television show host as well as the founder of the magazine Conversations. During that span, he has interviewed more than 1,000 influential and up-and-coming writers, authors and artists about their passions, their journeys through life, and how they are using their skills to make a difference in the world.

SDA Network News strives to be among the world's leaders in online news and information delivery. Staffed 24 hours, seven days a week by a dedicated staff in SDA's world headquarters in Chicago, Illinois, and in bureaus worldwide, SDA Network News relies heavily on SDA's global team of news professionals. SDA Network News features the latest multimedia technologies, from live video streaming to audio packages to searchable archives of news features and background information. The site is updated continuously throughout the day.

Read the entire announcement here: http://sdanetwork.prosepoint.com/entertainment

CBC Report: Author Jackie Carpenter's Visit To Mississippi (Day 1)

2011-01-07T22:09:00.000-08:00

(Friday, January 7, 2011) Shadow Play Entertainment and Conversations Book Club welcomed Jackie Carpenter, author of THE BRIDGE, to Mississippi on Friday, January 7, 2011 to begin her two day promotion of the book and how her faith helped guide her through a dark chapter of her life.

Hosted by Conversations' President Cyrus Webb and co-sponsored by Stanley Clark of For The People Productions, the day began at Medgar Evers Library in South Jackson. There Carpenter shared snippets of her life story and how the inspiration for the book came about.

Those in attendance listened intently as she explained that it was never her intention to become an author, but God had other plans.
Before leaving the library, she also donated a copy of her book to them so it can be shared with the patrons.

While in Jackson, Webb and Carpenter stopped by Clear Channel's radio offices to drop off a copy of the book for Nikki Dulaney of Hallelujah 95.5 FM for consideration for her book club selections.

From there, the group was on its way to Pearl, MS where Webb introduced Carpenter to some of the staff at the Pearl Public Library, and she donated copies of her book THE BRIDGE to them for use by their patrons.

As it would be, Conversations Book Club supporter and evangelist Diane Johnston was also present at the library, and was able to get a copy of Carpenter's book as well!

Next stop was Milestone Christian Bookstore where Carpenter was able to talk with management about her book and even laid the groundwork for a future signing at the stop when she returns to Mississippi!

The final stop of the day was at DSI, the renal center where Webb's grandmother is on dialysis. Several nurses from the Mississippi State Hospital had expressed interest to Webb about their love of books, and he was able to introduce them to the visiting author, share her book and the message she hopes they get from it.

The overall message that Jackie Carpenter shared was this: "I had to go through the test in order to have a testimony, and I had to endure the mess so I could have a message." What an incredible way to look at tests and trials that we all go through!

Find out more about Jackie Carpenter and her inspiring book at www.bridgetoamiracle.com. Shadow Play Entertainment and For The People Productions thanks the author, her family and everyone who shared the day with them. Day Two will include events in Brandon and Pearl, Mississippi. Details can be found at www.thebestbookclub.info.

Popular Song By Cash Money Inspires Anthem To Encourage Reading

2010-12-29T03:08:00.001-08:00

(Wednesday, December 29, 2010) When Shadow Play Entertainment President Cyrus Webb began looking for a theme song to promote its literacy campaign for 2011, he didn't have to go any further than two of his friends that shared his passion for encouraging reading: Herschel Dixon of Louisville, KY and Chris Ervin aka Dj Down South of Raleigh, MS.

"As a father, Herschel has made books a large part of his daughters' lives," says Webb, 35. "He came to me with the idea to rewrite Cash Money's popular song "Get Your Roll On" to promote reading among young people as part of our Hip Hop and Books Campaign. It made perfect sense, and from there we got together and wrote the song. The only thing left to do was get someone to record it."

Choosing Dj Down South was a no-brainer for Webb. "Down South had been a part of our Hip Hop and Books literacy campaign since I co-founded it in 2008 with Platinum-selling recording artist and bestselling author Corey "C-Murder" Miller in 2008," says Webb. "He saw what we were trying to do, and the rest is history."

The song "Get Your Read On" will be used as the theme for not just the Hip Hop and Books campaign but Webb's entire initiative to encourage reading among all age groups and backgrounds. "We have to do whatever it takes to get people enjoying books again," says Webb. "This song is just one part of my plan to do that in 2011. I am already working on a video for Youtube featuring the song, and we are gathering an impressive body of influential individuals together to promote reading's importance as well."

Celebrities that have already joined the campaign include actress/director/author Cherie Johnson (Punky Brewster/Family Matters), actor/author/recording artist Tray Chaney (HBO's The Wire), Vanessa and Angela Simmons (Pastry), recording artists Fizz and Booz and many more.

"Get Your Read On" is available for free download at www.esnips.com/web/getyourreadon. Webb hopes that people will share the song and use it as a catalyst to make books a part of their daily lives.

For more information about Shadow Play Entertainment's literacy campaign, visit www.hiphopandbooks.net, www.taketimetoread.com or contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Mississippi Native Encourages Others To "Take Time To Read"

2010-12-27T02:23:00.001-08:00

(Monday, December 27, 2010) Though a lover of books all of his life, 35 year old Mississippi native Cyrus Webb didn't realize the true importance of words until his adult years. "For me reading was a means of escape and a way to learn about the world," he says. "Today I realize that in many cases it can be the deciding factor between success and failure."

Because of this, in 2006 Webb began what has become the United States largest co-ed reading group, Conversations Book Club. Over the past four years it has hosted literary events across the country, creating spin-offs that embrace sports and music lovers. To date Conversations Book Club has hosted free events featuring 93 authors in Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee and Georgia. "We are all about encouraging reading," says Webb. "Since that is our aim, we have to be all things to all people to get them involved."

Since Mississippi still ranks at the top of the list when it comes to illiteracy, Webb feels obligated to focus his main literary efforts at home. His organization Shadow Play Entertainment recently announced its theme for 2011 as "A Year Of New Beginnings". Though this applies to various areas in life, for Webb, helping others to fall in love with books is at the top of his list of priorities.

On Thursday, December 30, 2010, Webb will be visiting two libraries sharing his organizations message for the New Year and giving out free books for all ages to help others get started reading as soon as possible. From 10-12p.m., he will be at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Rd * Pearl, MS) and from 1-3p.m., he will be at the Margaret Walker Alexander Library (2525 Robinson St. * Jackson, MS). The books have been donated by Shadow Play Entertainment, Great Little Books, LLC and author Jackie Carpenter.

Webb also encourages individuals to visit his webpage www.taketimetoread.com and sign the pledge committing to reading in 2011.

For more information about events scheduled by Conversations Book Club around the United States, visit www.thebestbookclub.info. Cyrus Webb can be reached at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. His website is www.cyruswebb.com.

(December 2010) Cyrus Webb Hosts Month-Long Art Exhibit In Mississippi

2010-12-22T11:41:00.000-08:00

During the month of December 2010, Mississippi native Cyrus Webb will be showcasing work from his REFLECTIONS exhibit.

This is taking place at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) and is free to the public.

The 15 pieces represent aspects of Webb's work that many have not since in quite some time, and he also share new pieces that are just being displayed this year.

To find out more information about Webb and his work, you can visit www.cyruswebb.com or contact him at cawebb4@juno.com.

POEM: Responsibility 101 (for World AIDS Day, Dec. 1st)

2010-12-01T03:43:00.001-08:00

RESPONSIBILITY 101 by Cyrus Webb

She was a woman living in her own world,
Having trained for her role since she was a little girl
And didn’t care what she had to do to get it.
Her life has always been seen as incredible.
The manner in which she lives and conducts herself is impeccable.
There is none like her, and she knows it.
People envied what she represented, and she exploited it.
Money doesn’t define the kind of woman she has become.
She used her influence to diffuse the myth that coming from nothing and becoming something couldn’t happen.
It could, if you only believed in what you wanted to achieve.
In her spare time she would find enjoyment in spending it with girls and boys in after school programs,
Sharing with them tips on how to come to grips with their lot in life and still make a difference.
Many looked up to her for strength and she gave them that.
But the fact still remained that there was another side to her that few had seen.

Remember she was a woman living in her own world,
Having trained for her role since she was a little girl,
And didn’t care what she had to do to get it.
With all the good she did it seemed not to rid her of the vices that had become a part of her life.
You see, she had a thing for bad boys.
It was nothing serious, just something to play with, like a toy.
And then she would leave it where she found it,
Not wanting to seem too attached.

They didn’t have to be handsome or even rich,
Her perfect fit was someone rough and even untamed.
It was a game. She didn’t want them to have any part of her world.

The aim being to keep them in their place. She didn’t even have to know their full names.
They would do things she would never discuss.
Some of them unprotected, just for the excitement or the rush.
Then afterwards she would find herself in tears, plagued by disgust.
One day, though, her perfect health gave way to aches and pains.
The strength she had relied on for years began to wane.
And her doctor confirmed the suspicions of her mind.
With all the wisdom she had acquired it was ignorance when feeding her desires that would be her downfall.
She had conducted her public life so meticulously,
Never thing that the carelessness of her private life could bring HIV.
But that became her reality.
A woman who lived in her own world,
Having trained for her role since she was a little girl.
Now educated in a new course called Responsibility 101.

BOOK REVIEW: "Rico the Seagull, Making the Best out of a Mess" by April Mahoney

2010-11-29T11:23:00.000-08:00

In 2010 the United States experienced its largest oil spill disaster in our nation's history, and though the oil is no longer flowing into the gulf, the people in the region will be dealing with the after effects for quite some time. When such things happen, it's hard sometimes to put in perspective for children what is going on, and how it affects not just the people but the animals as well.

In author April Mahoney's book RICO THE SEAGULL, MAKING THE BEST OUT OF A MESS, we are able to get a bird's eye view (pun intended) as to how manmade events bring change to all living things. Told in the voice of a young seagull, the reader is able to take in the story, the sadness and joy, and relate it to a child's level so they can appreciate what the moral of the story is.

Now, the book is great for young people, but don't think it should be limited to them. The message is one that adults should pay close attention to as well. We are all in this world together, no matter where we live, what we do or who we are. It is all of our responsibility to make sure that we are looking after one another and that we are mindful of the consequences of our actions.

Rico's journey in life could very easily be any of our journey. I'm sure it is the writer's hope that we all learn to appreciate that fact before it's too late.

NOTE: RICO THE SEAGULL, MAKING THE BEST OUT OF A MESS was chosen as one of Conversations' Top 100 Books of 2010. To see the entire listing, go to www.thebestboookclub.info.

(Sat. Nov. 20, 2010) Three Literary Voices Come Together To Celebrate Reading In Mississippi

2010-11-22T05:31:00.000-08:00

(Saturday, November 20, 2010) Mississippi may be seen as having one of the highest illiteracy rates in the country, but that is being chipped away each and every day by organizations like Conversations Book Club.

Under the leadership of Founder/President Cyrus Webb, Conversations Book Club began in Jackson, MS with only three members at the Medgar Evers Library in November 2006 but is now undesputedly the largest co-ed book club in the country with chapters in Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana and meetings in Tennessee. Now four years young, Conversations is continuing its mission of providing something for everyone.

On Saturday, November 20th, Webb hosted authors Joseph Henderson (I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE), Diane Hassan (ANGELS AMONG US...EVEN IN IRAQ) and Tommie Watkins, Jr. (LIVING OUT LOUD) in events for the National Day of Reading in the cities of Jackson and Pearl in Mississippi.

The day began with "Breakfast with Books" where patrons at the Medgar Evers Library in Jackson, MS were treated with refreshments and an opportunity to socialize with the authors.

At the end of the event, author Diane Hassan donated a copy of her book to the library, presenting it to librarian Shirley Simmons.

The next stop was the Pearl Public Library in Pearl, MS. There authors Hassan and Watkins shared information about their books and talked about their individual experiences.

There Hassan donated a book as well, presenting it to the supervisor on duty.

Finally it was on to Appetizers Restaurant in Pearl, MS where the authors talked about their day and shared their plans for the new year.

To date Conversations Book Club has scheduled events for 93 authors since it began in November 2006, with many more already planned for the upcoming months. To stay in touch with Cyrus Webb and the Conversations literary movement, visit www.thebestbookclub.info or contact Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.214.0286.

If you are interested in more information about the authors, you can find it below:

Joseph Henderson --- http://www.joseph-henderson.com
Dr. Diane Hassan --- http://angelsamonguseveniniraq.blogspot.com
Tommie Watkins, Jr. --- http://www.twgllc.biz

(Sat. Nov. 20, 2010) Cyrus Webb and Conversations Book Club Celebrates Books In Mississippi

2010-11-18T17:01:00.000-08:00

In 2009 ABC News reported that over 30 million Americans ages 16 and up were unable to read or write well. This proves what many have said for some time: Illiteracy is an epidemic that is spreading daily, claiming victims of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds.

Co-ed reading group Conversations Book Club in Mississippi is using this opportunity to encourage reading and discussion by hosting a full day of events centered around the power of books. On Saturday, November 20, 2010, book club President Cyrus Webb welcomes Joseph Henderson (author of I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE), Dr. Diane Hassan (author of ANGELS AMONG US...EVEN IN IRAQ) and Tommie Watkins, Jr. (author of LIVING OUT LOUD) to activities in Hinds and Rankin County. Here is the schedule:

* 10-11:30a.m., "Breakfast with Books" at Medgar Evers Library (4215 Medgar Evers Blvd * Jackson, MS) featuring authors Dr. Diane Hassan, Joseph Henderson and Tommie Watkins, Jr.
* 1-3p.m., Meet & Greet at Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) featuring authors Dr. Diane Hassan and Tommie Watkins, Jr.
* 6-7:30p.m., Meet & Greet at Appetizers (3000 Hwy 80 E * Pearl, MS) featuring authors Dr. Diane Hassan and Tommie Watkins, Jr.

Since November 2006, Conversations Book Club has hosted over 90 authors in events in the magnolia state to showcase the importance of reading. Those in the Central Mississippi area are encouraged to join in these free events and meet some exciting authors in the process.

All events are free and open to the public, and all authors will have books on hand. For more information, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Cyrus Webb and Conversations Reveal The "Top 100 Books of 2010"

2010-10-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

Cyrus Webb and Conversations Magazine Reveal The "Top 100 Books of 2010"

Since 2008 Conversations' "Top 100 Books" has been recognized for being the largest list each year that fairly gathers the best titles released by traditional publishing houses, small presses and even self-published authors worldwide of all genres and gives them the due they deserve. Cyrus Webb, the founder of the Conversations brand, has been an avid reader all of his life and has worked hard to make sure that there is something on the list for everyone.

This year there were so many great books that Webb had a chance to enjoy that he decided to add two new features in 2010: a Children's/Young Adult category and a Honorable Mention category for both fiction and non-fiction. Webb also has included the publishing houses for each title to make it easier for you to identify.

Here are this year's honorees: http://conversationsmag.blogspot.com/2010/10/cyrus-webb-presents-conversations-top.html

(Sat. Oct. 23) Cyrus Webb and Conversations Book Club Uses Books To "Make A Difference"

2010-10-24T03:31:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, October 23, 2010, Conversations Book Club Founder and President Cyrus Webb traveled to Appetizers Restaurant in Pearl, MS to give the gift of books for National Make A Difference Day. The day has been set aside to do something nice for someone, and for Webb books seemed like the perfect thing.

"Mississippi still ranks among the states with the highest rates of illiteracy," says Webb, 35. "Conversations Book Club has teamed up with authors from across the country to make sure that we begin changing that one book at a time."

Anyone who came by Appetizers Restaurant from 10-2p.m. were treated to as many books as they wanted. Barbara Worton, Linday Jenkins and Robert Brown of Great Little Books, LLC donated books for the event as well as Rapper/Author Jacki-O. Webb donated children's books for the event.

Webb reached out to Rhonda Teague, the owner of a 24-hour child care facility in Jackson, MS, inviting her to get books for her children as well as their parents.
Joseph Henderson, author of I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE, also joined the event.

"It's a little thing," says Webb, "but it is the little things that really make a difference."

For more information about Great Little Books, visit www.greatlittlebooksllc.com. Additional information about Joseph and his book can be found at www.joseph-henderson.com. To see what's next for Conversations Book Club, visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

Cyrus Webb Talks with National Recording Artist Donell Jones

2010-10-23T04:37:00.000-07:00

A CONVERSATIONS LIVE EXCLUSIVE
(Friday, October 22, 2010) Just hours after finishing a concert stop in North Carolina, Ntl Recording Artist Donell Jones talked with Cyrus Webb on Conversations LIVE about his music career, his new album LYRICS and introduced listeners to his new single "Love Like This." Listen to the interview here: http://tobtr.com/s/1332923

Cyrus Webb Talks With Radio Personality Ebony Steele of the Rickey Smiley Morning Show

2010-10-23T04:19:00.000-07:00

On Thurs. Oct. 21, 2010 Cyrus Webb interviewed Ebony Steele, co-host of the Rickey Smiley Morning Show. She talked about her career, her personal fight with breast cancer and discussing it with the world as well as her upcoming event in Atlanta, GA on THurs. Oct. 28, 2010 to raise money and awareness for Breast Cancer.

Listen to the interview here: http://www.esnips.com/web/EbonySteeleInterview

Cyrus Webb's Interview With G-Unit Riderz Featured On www.ThisIs50.com

2010-10-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

On Friday, October 15, 2010 Cyrus Webb interviewed 50 Cent's friends B Jay and Moe of the G-Unit Riderz on Conversations LIVE. That interview is now being featured on www.ThisIs50.com!
http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/g-unit-riderz-interview-with

Entreprenuer Cyrus Webb Shares A Decade Of His Voice

2010-10-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

On Thurs. September 30, 2010, Mississippi native Cyrus Webb hosted "MY VOICE: A Decade In The Arts" at the Pearl Public Library in Pearl,MS.

The public event was to highlight Webb's contribution to the arts from 1999 to 2009 and show the world what he is doing moving forward.

In the first corner of the exhibit Webb exhibited some of his artwork.

Next he had some of his poetry chapbooks on display as well as his spoken word cd MY CONTROVERSY that is now available on http://spokencontroversy.blogspot.com.

From there Webb highlighted his community involvment since 1999 with organizations like the Partnership for a Healthy, Mississippi, VSA of Mississippi as well as speaking about the importance of the arts at schools in Mississippi such as Pearl High School, Peeples Middle School, Calloway High School, Lake Elementary School, Pecan Park Elementary School, Hardy Middle School, Jim Hill High School and Forest Hill High School.

On the next phase of the journey, Webb showcased the publications that he has written for over the years, including The Clarion Ledger, Rankin Ledger, Mississippi Link, Jackson Advocate, Blagazine.com, Crunk Magazine (ATL).
In 2006 he became the publisher and Editor-In-Chief of his own magazine called Conversations. The next issue debuts in mid-November and is the Dec. 2010/Jan. 2011 issue.

What those who attended the event saw next is what has become the largest part of Webb's life: the radio and tv versions of the Conversations Brand. He played the first tv edition of Conversations which debuted in April 2004 on 16 WAPT (ABC affilliate) in Jackson, MS as well as had interviews from his radio show available to listen to.
To date, Cyrus Webb has interview over 1,000 individuals on Conversations LIVE, the radio show that began on WMPR 90. 1 FM in July 2003 which is now heard on the radio dial on affilliates as well as online.

Those in attendance also saw Webb's only acting performance thus far. He was a part of the cast for the short film BROKEN SILENCE that addresses the issues of HIV/AIDS. It debuted at Crossroads Film Festival and later showed at other festivals in Mississippi.

Just two years after debuting the radio show, Cyrus Webb began Conversations the book club. Started with 3 members in November 2006 in Jackson, MS, the co-ed, multi-cultural reading group now has chapters in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana and has been written about not only in the South but by the Chicago Tribune as well. To date, Conversations Book Club has hosted literary events with 90 authors and is the largest co-ed reading group in the United States.

What's next for Webb? During the event he worked on a new piece of art called "Walking On Egg Shells", a pieces that is a part of a new series where he takes figure of speech and brings them to life. He is also working on his latest literary project, a religious thriller called BLESSED.

For more information about Cyrus Webb visit www.cyruswebb.com, email him at cawebb4@juno.com or contact him at 601.825.5883.

BOOK REVIEW: "I Know What I Am and I Am Not What You Call Me" by Jonathan Spikes

2010-10-18T12:15:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Book Club/Conversations Magazine

At a time when men are accused of not letting their feelings be known or discussing what might be bothering them, author Jonathan Spikes gives the world Damon McBlessed. Damon is a young man who is growing into his own skin and having to learn who he is in a time that is full of confusion, anger and abuse. Like so many around us, he seems to represent so much of what is wrong with the world when it comes to those getting to know themselves and having to deal with the feelings of being betrayed by those around us.

The author addresses alot of issues in this book that really touches you in a variety of ways. First, the character Damon must decide if the feelings he has towards those of the same sex are wrong in the eyesight of God. Then there is the feeling of being in a lose-lose when it comes to his faith and what seems to be normal for him. Add to that the complex relationship Damon has with his mother, something that has made his life really unbearable for some time.

I think the wise thing for all of us to do is read I KNOW WHAT I AM AND I AM NOT WHAT YOU CALL ME is that there needs to be a real dialogue about sexuality, abuse of men and women as well as the importance of loving oneself. Love was something that Damon struggled with, and that spilled over into how he was living from day to day. No one should have to go through life feeling who they are is a mistake, however, I do believe that understanding what happens to us doesn't make us who we are is something that will help us deal with whatever situations we find ourselves in.

Personal, powerful and well-written, this is one that will be remembered and recommended for quite some time.

Cyrus Webb Announces The Return of Conversations Magazine's Print Edition in November 2010!

2010-10-14T22:35:00.003-07:00

Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce the return of Conversations Magazine's print edition.

Founded by Mississippi native Cyrus Webb,35, as the third component of the Conversations Brand (following Conversations the radio and tv shows), Conversations Magazine originally debuted in print in April 2006. Months later Webb and founding member Stanley Clark would begin Conversations the book club. Based solely on subscriptions at the time and sold online, the magazine gained a modest 100 monthly subscribers to the publication that focused almost entirely on books and those who were living their dreams as published authors.

Like other publications, when costs outweighted the actual profit of the publication, Webb made the decision in 2008 to take Conversations completely online. Ironically, it was that year that the Conversations Brand began to change, including health and fitness items, food and then in 2009 adding fashion. Today, thanks to the eclectic nature of the brand, Conversations the radio show averages over 100,000 online listeners each month, garnering partnerships with national as well as up-and-coming businesses.

"The timing is just right," says Webb, who has been building the Conversations brand since the first component Conversations the radio show began on WMPR 90.1 FM in Jackson in July 2003. "Conversations has grown alot since the print edition of Conversations last saw the light of day. I think more importantly I have grown in my understanding that you have to feed more than a person's love of books. You have to feed their love of life. That is what my team it doing."

The reemergence of the print edition of Conversations Magazine will take place in mid-November with the December 2010/January 2011 issue. The 40 page edition will feature Conversations' Top 100 Books of 2010, profiles of authors Nancy T.Rosenberg, Mikki Zimmerman, Michael Dillon Scott and entrepreneurs like actor/author/recording artist Tray Chaney, actress/director/author Cherie Johnson and model/actor Nicoye Banks. Also included will be styling tips by fashion designer Gail Ambeau, cooking tips by Chef Bruce Tretter, and musical profiles of Laura Pascarella, The Artist Company and the rap groups Authentic and Dem Raleigh Boyz as well as Conversations' Artist of the Year 2010.

The magazine will be available at independent bookstores in Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Pearl/Brandon and online at www.conversationsmag.com. It will be marketed through paid ads on Facebook,social networking sites, posters, Conversations LIVE radio, and other sites operated by Shadow Play Ent. PDFs of the bi-monthly edition will also be available through www.payloadz.com.

For additional information about Conversations Magazine including how to be featured and advertising in the publication, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or601.896.5616. Details can also be found at www.conversationsmag.com.

(Sat. Oct. 23, 2010) Mississippi's own Cyrus Webb Uses Books To "Make A Difference"

2010-10-14T08:06:00.000-07:00

(Sat. Oct. 23, 2010 * Pearl, MS) Patrons of Appetizers Restaurant (3000 HWY 80E) in Pearl, MS will get more than good food on Saturday, October 23, 2010. That's because during the hours of 10-2p.m. that day, Mississippi native and Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb will be giving everyone who visits the restaurant during that time a free book.

This is in celebration of National "Make A Difference Day" where everyday individuals are asked to do something to help others, expecting nothing in return. For Webb, giving the gift of books is something that has lasting effects.

"Mississippi still leads the country in cases of illiteracy," says Webb,35. "Not reading and not being able to read is something that we can fix together. I hope that everyone in the state sees this as a small way that we can actually make a difference one book at a time." Since Nov. 2006 Webb and his book club have hosted authors and hundreds of literary events geared towards encouraging reading and the importance of the written word.

The books Webb will be distributing were donated by authors Barbara Worton, Robert Brown and Linda Dini Jenkins of Great Little Books, LLC as well as recording artist/author Jacki-O of TRU Publishing.

(Cyrus Webb and Joseph Henderson are seen here during a book discussion in 2008)
That same evening, Webb and Conversations Book Club will host author Joseph Henderson in a book discussion at Appetizers Restaurant beginning at 6p.m. Henderson, now a Mississippi resident, has chronicled the journey of his life in a book called I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE. Admission to the event is free, and Henderson's book will be available for purchasing.

For more information about the "Make A Difference Day" events in Pearl, MS, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Additional information can also be found at www.cyruswebb.com.

New Endeavor by Tray Chaney Proves He's A JACK OF ALL TRAYS

2010-10-14T03:34:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Magazine

(Thursday, October 14, 2010) At a time when people are struggling to pursue their passion or having to give up on their dreams, visionary and multi-talented Tray Chaney is just turning the page on what has been an incredible life. After being in the spotlight since he was just eight years old, MTV announced this week that the actor/author/recording artist had just released a free mixtape online called JACK OF ALL TRAYS.

"This is just a thank you to my fans," says Chaney, who has seemingly been moving non-stop over the past decade. "I want to show them that I appreciate their support as well as let them know what to expect from me next."

For many the public life of Tray Chaney began with his five year role as Poot Carr on the popular HBO series THE WIRE. It was there that he was able to showcase his range as an actor and prove that he could stand toe to toe with the best of them. After the show wrapped, instead of just waiting for the next gig, Chaney took his career into his own hands and penned his autobiography THE TRUTH YOU CAN'T BETRAY. "People had gotten to know a character (on THE WIRE)," says Chaney. "I wanted to let them in to who I really was."

From there it was being featured in documentaries, red carpet events and even supporting causes close to his heart like the importance of literacy (being spokesperson for The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign) and bringing attention to the difficulties of individuals living with disabilities (being an ambassador for the non-profit Community Options). "I have been blessed with so much in my life," Tray says, "so if I can make a difference with just my name recognition for something that I care about, I'm going to do it."

While juggling family life, his career in television and film and promoting his book, Chaney was also preparing for what would be his newest endeavor: letting the world know about his love of music. It was something that had always been there, but he wanted to make sure he waited until the time was right to fully share it with the world.

That time seems to be now, and the first endeavor, the mixtape entitled, JACK OF ALL TRAYS, gives you a snapshot into the mind of a true creative individual. Whether you're talking about the club tracks like MONEY IN MY WALK or BABY LET'S GO (feat. G-Mann and Cherri), introspective tracks like TRUE STORY and DELIMA (feat. Jazz of Dru Hill) or inspirational tracks like DEAR HAITI, this project of original songs covers seemingly every aspect of the young man's life.

Expect to see Chaney touring the country soon doing show to promote the mixtape and his other ventures in the near future. For him, there is no limit to how far he can go. "I want to do it all," says Chaney, "and I want my life to be a testament to others that they can do it all as well. As long as they believe in themselves and work hard, it will all pay off."

The mixtape JACK OF ALL TRAYS is avaiable for free download by going to http://tinyurl.com/traychaneymixtape.

Cyrus Webb is the Editor In Chief of Conversations Magazine and can be reached at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

(Tues. Oct. 5, 2010) News From Cyrus Webb and Shadow Play Entertainment

2010-10-05T08:47:00.001-07:00

* BOOK OF THE MONTH: Conversations Book Club's selection for the month of October 2010 is LIVING IN THE REAR VIEW MIRROR (From Substance Abuse to a Life of Substance) by author Kim Vazquez (www.kimvazquez.com). Details can be found at www.thebestbookclub.info.

* OCTOBER'S THEME: SHOULD LOVE EVER HURT?: October is recognized by many as Breast Cancer Awareness Month as well as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. For Shadow Play Entertainment, it will be used as an opportunity to have a dialogue about all forms of abuse. The theme of the month is "Should Love Ever Hurt?", and Cyrus Webb (host of Conversations LIVE and President of Conversations Book Club) will have special guests sharing their personal stories of triumph over tragedy. Many of the conversations will take place on the radio show, and details can be found at www.conversationsliveradio.com.

* NEW PARTNERSHIPS: The success of Shadow Play Entertainment has come in part because of the partnerships it has forged over the years. Beginning in the summer of 2010 organizations like The Artist Company, Big Noise Records and Passionate Writer Publishing have joined Shadow Play Ent. in sharing incredible talent both in books and music. Find out about other partners at www.shadowplayent.com.

* WEBB NAMED PUBLICIST FOR GENESIS PRESS: On Oct. 1, 2010, Shadow Play Entertainment's President Cyrus Webb became the Senior Publicist for Mississippi-based publisher Genesis Press. The company, which is the home of dozens of authors, enjoys worldwide distribution through New York-based Kensington Books. Webb hopes to spread the word about the services and authors that Genesis provides and encourage more book clubs to consider Genesis when deciding what books to read. For more about the company, visit www.genesis-press.com. Additional info about Webb can be found at www.cyruswebb.com.

* CLIENT CAMPAIGNS: During the month of October, look for Shadow Play Ent. to be involved in media campaigns for clients Jonathan Spikes (author of I KNOW WHAT I AM AND I AM NOT WHAT YOU CALL ME), Min. Patricia A. Thomas (author of GOD REVEALS A MYSTERY), Dr. Diane Hassan (author of ANGELS AMONG US, EVEN IN IRAQ), U.D. Abdul Kareem (author of AFRICAN COWBOY), Maria Stewart (LOOKING FOR CLOSURE) and Joseph Henderson (author of I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE). Details can be found at www.shadowplayent.com.

* MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY 2010: Shadow Play Ent. Founder Cyrus Webb and clients of the organization will be taking part in community events in their area on Sat. Oct. 23, 2010 as part of this year's MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY. Make plans now to join them or host your own event. To find out more, visit www.shadowplayent.com.

* THIS YEAR'S V. C. ANDREWS TRIBUTE: Since 2007, Shadow Play Entertainment has hosted events celebrating the life and work of international bestselling author V. C. Andrews on the anniversary of her death. On Sunday, December 19, 2010, Cyrus Webb will host a special one-hour tribute on Conversations LIVE Radio beginning at 7p.m. est (6p.m. cst/4p.m.pt), giving fans of the author the opportunity to call in and share their thoughts. Andrews diedat the age of 62 nearly 24 years ago, but her amazing legacy continues. For details visit either www.thebestbookclub.info or www.conversationsliveradio.com.

* AUTHOR VISITS, OCT. 2010: Shadow Play Entertainment will host events for authors Joseph Henderson (author of I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE), Min. Tommie Watkins (LIVING OUT LOUD) and M. Salahuddin Khan (SIKANDER) in Mississippi during the month of Oct.2010. Details can be found at www.thebestbookclub.info

To stay abreast of other activities associated with Shadow Play Entertainment, bookmark www.shadowplayent.com and visit it often. For more information about any of the above, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

"I Can't Be Stopped": New Poem By Cyrus Webb

2010-09-30T04:35:00.000-07:00

I CAN'T BE STOPPED*
by Cyrus Webb

The worst thing you can do is count me out.
If you think saying something about me is going to stop me, then you really don't know what I'm about...
and that means you'll underestimate me.

I can understand why you are afraid...and you should be.
Not because I am that powerful, but because of the power within me.

What separates you from me is the passion that drives each day of my life.
I don't focus on the negativity and the strife of the day.
I look for a way to make my next 24 hours better than the ones before it.

You might just want to get ahead, and that's okay---for you.
But to really be successful you have to think about the bigger picture.
Life is about the impact you have on those around you, and what you do to really make a difference.

It's not about how many people know your name
or living the celebrity life that bring you money and fame.
I'm more about another reward.

I want the peace of mind that one finds by using their skills for good...and I do.
If I am to excel and the talents I've been given propel me into the spotlight, then I want to make sure I'm using that opportunity well.

This is not about me.
It's about the endless possibilities that we all can achieve.

So when you think you're doing something to defame me, think again.
I'm no longer a person who needs your praise to get through my day or feel good about myself.
That's why you can't stop me.
Only I can stop me.
And stopping is something I have no intention of doing.
As long as there is breath in my body I will continue to be the best I can.
I can't be stopped.

* I CAN'T BE STOPPED is from Cyrus Webb's poetry chapbook MY VOICE: 1999-2009 and beyond

Shared by Cyrus Webb: Prepaid cards a new way to bank?

2010-09-16T07:16:00.001-07:00

Hello,

Cyrus Webb is quoted in a new article dealing with using Prepaid debit cards in business. Read it here!

Shared by Cyrus Webb while visiting FoxBusiness.com:

Prepaid cards a new way to bank?

Mississippi Native Stesses Education Not Ignorance When Dealing With Muslims and the Islam Faith

2010-09-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Magazine (http://www.conversationsmag.com)

The brewing controversy over the proposed mosque near the site of Ground Zero in New York and the scheduled burning of the Koran in Florida on September 11, 2010 has sparked conversation worldwide among Muslims and Non-Muslims alike. In Mississippi, Jackson native, author and Muslim Joseph Henderson is concerned about the message that is being sent about his religion.

"I was not exposed to any other faith or religion growing up," says Henderson, 42. "The Muslim faith appealed to me because of the tolerence it taught, its messages about how to live and even on how we ought to treat each other." He has been practicing his faith for over 20 years. In his autobiographer I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE, he chronicles his journey in life, his road to redemption and the role faith played in his making a transformation.

Ironically, the very teachings that Henderson praises in the Muslim faith seem to be lacking among detractors and those with growing animosity towards Islam. Who does Joseph look to for guidance? It's Jesus. "We all look at Jesus as being the greatest figure, teacher and role model to walk the earth," he says. "Jesus embodied how we ought to live. That is what real Muslims believe."

When hearing about what is going on right now in America concerning Muslims, Joseph says this: "People truly have a lack of understanding of what Islam is really about and what Islam really means. If they wish to look at the trueness in contrast to what so-called extremeist are representing, that will help them to best understand what is the truth." Joseph also warns against painting an entire religion by a broad brush. "They see what a few people are doing that is negative and makes Muslims as a whole look bad. That's unfair. If we applied that standard to all religions, no one would be able to get along."

Probably one of the most troubling acts is yet to come: the threatening of the burning of the Muslim's holy book the Koran. "I see that as an insult not just to Muslims, but an insult to mankind," says Henderson. "When God sends scripture, he sends it for mankind to live by. To burn something that He has establishehd for humanity is like disrepecting him. This is why you have to respect all scripture: the Bible and the Koran."

One of the great things that is happening as a result of all of the controversy and uproars across the United States is the dialogue that seems to be taking place. Joseph says that could be a plus if the opportunity is not missed. "If people would do their own studying or their own inquiring on Islam and not listen to the negative, they will be able to form their own opinions about what is true and false. Then they will see that we all serve the same God."

For additional information about Joseph Henderson, visit www.joseph-henderson.com. Cyrus Webb can be reached via email at cawebb4@juno.com or at 601.896.5616.

Mississippi Native Cyrus Webb Urges The Importance of Taking Time To Read

2010-09-08T02:41:00.000-07:00

With all of the advancements that the United States has made over the years, illiteracy is one plague that seems to be growing, not shrinking. To help bring more attention to the importance of books and education, Shadow Play Entertainment, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign and Conversations Book Club are excited to announce its new initiative TAKE TIME TO READ.

"It's all about making people feel okay about reading," says Cyrus Webb, a 35 year old Mississippi native and founder of the new program. "There are many reading projects out there that are doing alot of good, but some young people especially need to know that those they look up to believe that reading is important."

To that end, Webb went out soliciting the help of those in the music industry and other levels of entertainment, getting their thoughts on the importance of reading. Because of that, celebrities and those in the literary community are teaming together to urge the world to 'do it 15 minutes a day', encouraging others to take time every day to read. Thus far dozens of influentials and up-and-coming stars in the music industry and entertainment arena have signed on along with those who are interested in making a difference. Shadow Play Entertainment was pleased that actress, author and overall creative heavyweight Cherie Johnson (known for her roles in shows such as Punky Brewster, Family Matter, The Parkers and Days of our Lives) came on board the project as national spokesperson.

"Having Cherie out front is a real asset," says Webb. "Not only does she have the name recognition that will spark interest, she is also an author with her first book Around The World Twice just being released. She's already on the road promoting her novel, so the timing was just right for her to be able to speak about the literacy campaign as well."

Realizing this is a global problem, Webb also reached out to his friends around the world to join the cause, and is looking for other international partners to help spread the message. Individuals like United Kingdom Filmmaker Tom Sands and Nigerian Author UD Abdul Kareem have already joined the coalition and have made videos expressing their support. (TAKE TIME TO READ is Webb's third literary program, with the Hip Hop and Books literacy campaign and The Write Stuff literacy campaign still in effect.)

All of this is a part of the lead up to the 2nd Annual National Day of Reading on Sat. November 20, 2010. On that day Webb hopes to get just five people in each state to take at least one hour and spend it either reading together or discussing a book together.

Details about the TAKE TIME TO READ initiative and the pledge that the public can sign to show their support can be found at www.taketimetoread.com . To join the growing coalition, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or contact him at 601.896.5616. Details about Webb's other projects can be found at www.cyruswebb.com.

Cyrus Webb Tells The Washington Examiner Why He Admires Justin Bieber

2010-09-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

In an article posted on Friday, September 3, 2010, Cyrus Webb told the Washington Examiner why he respects pop sensation Justin Bieber. Read it here: http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/entertainment/Bieber-Fever-hits-Washington-area-102193949.html

Webb featured in new article about success without college degree

2010-09-04T07:20:00.000-07:00

On Friday, September 3, 2010, Cyrus Webb was featured in an online article by www.usariseup.com about finding success without a college degree. Webb, who made the decision not to attend college, is and has always been a supporter of education with a purpose. To read the article, click here: http://www.usariseup.com/eyes-enterprise/unemployed-grads-irrespective-race-find-degree-aint-what-it-used-be

Rankin County's Only Weekly Open Mic Night Returns Sat. Sept. 4th

2010-08-27T04:08:00.000-07:00

Beginning Sat. Sept. 4, 2010, Rankin County's only weekly spoken word and open mic night returns every Saturday from 6-8p.m. to Appetizers Restaurant (3000 Hwy 80 E * Pearl, MS).

Hosted by award-winning spoken word artist and multi-media personality C. A. Webb, the program is open to poets, singers, authors, musicians who want to share their skill in a family-friendly environment.

Webb began the open mic night in 2007, and the weekly event has hosted authors and even Def Poetry Jam poet C-Bone Jones. Future guests include author Ed Slack, M.D., author/poet April Mahoney aka Nouveau Spice, author Joseph Henderson, author Tommie Watkins and author M. Salahuddin Khan.

Admission is free with great food discounts available. For more information about Spoken Word Saturdays, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com, 601.896.5616 or visit www.cyruswebb.com.

MS Native Presents A Decade Of His Voice In Sept.

2010-08-25T14:34:00.001-07:00

Before he started a BOOK CLUB, he was on TV. Before he was on TV, he was on RADIO. Before he was on radio, he wrote and DREW for others...But before he wrote and drew for others, he did it for HIMSELF.

On Thursday, September 30, 2010, Mississippi native Cyrus Webb presents "MY VOICE: A Decade in the Arts, 1999-2009." This will take place at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS).

"I'm excited about this event," says Webb, 35. He feels as though many who may know him for just his work in promoting literacy or being on the radio will be able to see the full picture through this event. "This is my first art show and poetry reading in 4 years, and I'm excited to share with people what I have been doing over the past few years as well as over the past decade."

MY VOICE will begin with an art show at 4p.m. featuring some of Webb's work from 1999-2009. The public will be able to walk through his life and chronicle year by year what he had done, how his work has evolved and where he is headed in the new decade. At 6p.m., Webb will host a poetry reading featuring his most popular work from the past decade, as well as new work that has never been heard before. The crowning achievement for Webb during the evening will be the release of his new poetry chapbook MY VOICE: The Compilation.

Admission to the entire day's events is free, and the public is encourage to come out and celebrate one of Mississippi's native sons.

For more information, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com, 601.896.5616 or visit www.cyruswebb.com.

Dem Raleigh Boyz: Creating Art With Rhyme, Skills and Drive

2010-08-18T06:50:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Magazine

It all began while they were together on the high school football team at Raleigh High School in Mississippi. One day in the locker room Darrell Ashley aka GB approached Chris Ervin aka Dj Down South and asked him about his love of music and where he was trying to get in making it a career. DJ Down South then invited GB to record at his home studio. Some time later while working on GB's Debut album 'Tripnosis' and Dj Down South's mixtape 'Get to Know Me vol. 1', GB invited his long time friend Russell Clark aka Big Blaze to a recording session. After seeing that they all had the common goal of taking their dreams and making them a reality, they formed the group Dem Raleigh Boyz.

Now with a real drive and determination to succeed, Dem Raleigh Boyz is ready to do what it takes to get themselves heard. They took out time from their recording to talk about their influences, where they see themselves headed, and how they are getting the word out about their music and creating a solid fanbase without radio play.

* Thanks guys for taking out the time to talk with me. I know you all are busy, but I'm sure our readers will appreciate this opportunity. Who would you each say are your influences?
Dj Down South: Kurt Cobain, Bob Marley, Ice Cube, Eazy E, Jimi Hendrix, Augustana, Danielle Ate The Sandwich, Tupac, and Bone Thugs -N- Harmony. I grew up listening to 50's, 60's, and early 70's music as a kid. I have a lot of respect for that music and the artists that contributed! I still listen to those classic tracks and some of my favorite songs are from that era.

Big Blaze: There are many great artists out there, But in an attempt to keep a unique sound, I try not to be influenced by them. Our generation says they want to be unique and different, But a lot of today's artists still share the same sound.

GB: I would have to say the ones that influenced me the most was Bone thugs -n- Harmony, Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, T.I, Young Jeezy, Ludacris, an Emenim. I think having an eclectic ear contributes to Dem Raleigh Boyz unique sound, and versatile lyrics. Just being open to multiple genres and having respect for their art.

* Music is something that is seen by many as a unifying force. What does music do to you all, and how is your sound different?
Dj Down South: Music brings out the best in me, I love everything about music. I love learning new instruments, listening to new music and helping out other unsigned artist. I give a lot of my time to help young kids who show interest in the arts by volunteering my time so they become more confident in their talent.

Big Blaze: Music brings out the full spectrum of emotions in me. Music also brings me peace. That's what music is meant to do, inspire people to feel emotions and motivate them to do great things. I encourage everyone I meet to pick up music, because the only way music will survive is by being passed from one generation to another.

GB: Music is my way of expressing my feelings and having a good time. I love the feeling I get when people run up to me an ask me if I could get em a Dem Raleigh Boyz cd or if me an the boys would do a track with them.

* As three individuals, I know you all have your own personal style and personalities. How has it been coming together and working as one unit?
Dj Down South: It came really natural, as we continued to work in the studio we constantly hung out getting to know each other better and better. We all became inseparable and in that came the music became smoother and we are constantly improving.

* Being from Mississippi myself, I know that the South is sometimes guilty of sleeping on its own. How are you getting the word out about yourself, your music and building on your career?
Dj Down South: Our agent has been hard at work, unlocking various promotional opportunities. We get as much love as you would expect out of a small town in Mississippi. We are always meeting new people that love our music and get the word out to their friends and family. We always show our appreciation to them. We love all our fans!

* Radio play is another sensitive subject for some artists, especially independent ones. How is the internet helping you overcome what might be a slow process in that area?
Dj Down South: It's not how good you are, it's who you know. Radio has been a real challenge for us over the years. Our favorite line we got was from 99.7 WJMI, "We are here to play popular music, we are not here to make you popular." That didn't sit too well with my agent either (laughs). We currently use various internet resources to get our music out there such as ReverbNation (http://www.reverbnation.com/demraleighboyz) and Soundcloud (http://soundcloud.com/dem-raleigh-boyz).

* For some the recording process is the highlight of success for an artist. Others see performing in front of a live crowd as a crowning achievement. What about each of you?
Dj Down South: For me it is the whole experience in music, writing, recording, and performing. I love it all.

Big Blaze: I'd have to agree with DJ Down South. I love the whole process from finding a beat, writing a verse, recording it, and performing it.

GB: I would have to say I love everything about the music industry but I'm more about performing for my fans an givin them a show to remember I mean I owe it all to them an my lord an savior.

* When people hear your music, what do you hope they say about you as artists?
Dj Down South: We hope they see us the way we see ourselves, not as Rappers but as Recording Artists. The term 'Rapper' has become so bland and one sided. We see our music as art not Rap or Hip-Hop, not that there's anything wrong with Rap and Hip-Hop. We just don't see ourselves being limited by a genre where a lot of the time people have a predetermined expectation, regardless of the artist.

* What single is the group promoting right now?
Dj Down South: For our debut album 'Last Road Out' we are promoting Celebrity Life, Punk Kid Ft. NeyNey, and I Don't Mind. As for our 2nd CD that is in the works we are promoting Dat Kush Ft. Lil Wayne, Surf's Up, and Leave the Keys.

* What advice do you have up and coming artists trying to break out as well?
Dj Down South: As we said earlier, It's not how good you are, its who you know. It's tough to grab that concept at first, but its true. Meet as many people as you can and keep in contact. Do not give up on your dreams. Live your life your way and smile often!

* Thanks again for talking with us. How can our readers find out more about you and your music?
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dem-Raleigh-Boyz/108920409143093?ref=ts
http://www.reverbnation.com/demraleighboyz

KINESIS: Using Passion For Music To Teach By Example

2010-08-18T05:06:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb

Mississippi continues to give birth to some of the best and brightest in the world of entertainment. At the age of 25, Mississippi native Keith "Kinesis" Cole is showcasing the skills and discipline it takes to be good at whatever it is he pursues. When it comes to setting priorities, at the top of the list---third only to his love for God and his two daughters---is his love for making and performing good music.

"With music I am able to express myself and talk about the things I see everyday," he says. A native of Dekalb, Mississippi, Kinesis has been working on his craft for quite some time. "I think I was in the fifth or sixth grade when I started writing music and figured out that I had some real skill."

Though he has admired several artists over the years, Tupac, T. I. and Young Jeezy have been the main Hip Hop voices that Kinesis has been drawn to. "Since I rap, I don't really listen to alot of rap so I won't try and emulate what I hear," he says. "I listen to alot of R&B, but I respect the artists out there doing their thing."

As with any choice that a young person makes, the response has been mixed when it comes to the support Kinesis has seen in pursuing music. "Some of the family does support me," he admits, "but some people think that what I'm doing is a waste of time. I have a college degree, and they think I should be using it."

That degree was obtained at Jackson State University and was supposed to be the doorway for him to become a teacher. For Kinesis, though, he feels as though he is a teacher of life through his music, not just to the world but other young people around him, including his daughters.

What was the deciding factor in him not pursuing a "regular" job after college? Kinesis says that in 2007 he started to get real serious about music and building his brand as an artist. "I would spend all of my spare time on recording and promotional material," he says. "I was willing to give up so much, because I felt like God was going to give me all that I wanted. I just had to show that I had faith in myself. I wanted it so bad, and I was willing to do whatever it took."

One person who was in his corner in the beginning may not be around to physically see what he is accomplishing now, but Kinesis knows they are proud of him. That would be his mother who passed away on September 11, 2002: the same day his first daughter was born. "She was always in my corner," he says. "My mom was a big supporter of anything I did." That makes his making it in the music industry that more important.

Over the past few years Kinesis has laid the groundwork for a career that is reaching not just out of his hometown of Dekalb but the state of Mississippi altogether. He has performed in shows and had the privilege of hearing his music on the radio. What has it been like for him? Two words: a blessing.

"Each experience makes me even more hungy for this," Kinesis says. "When I am on stage or in the booth, I feel like I have won a championship when I finish. It's the kind of feeling you want when you are doing something you love."

Currently, Kinesis is promoting the singles "Ready to Ride" and "Clothes Off", and has joined Shadow Play Entertainment's literacy initiative called HIP HOP AND BOOKS which encourages reading among lovers of Hip Hop and R&B. "You have to give back," Kinesis says. "Organizations like Hip Hop and Books allows artists like me to stand shoulder to shoulder with others doing what I love and promote something positive like reading. Without the ability to read, you're lost. As a father, I realize that even more."

Speaking of his children, when asked about how he hopes his two daughters see Dad the Entertainer, Kinesis understands the balancing act he and other artists have to do. "I want them to be proud of what I do," he says. "I'm an entertainer, but I think I can also be a role model in the way I treat myself, my family and those around me."

Find out more about Kinesis at http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=657878252&ref=ts or www.shadowplayent.com. To schedule interviews, appearances or events with the artist, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

(August 2, 2010) News From Shadow Play Entertainment

2010-08-02T05:17:00.001-07:00

What a year it has been for Shadow Play Entertainment and its various subsidiaries. Month after month has been full of activity, and August seems to be no different. Below are the most current updates:

* Conversations Book Club has chosen "The Skinny On" series as its selection of the month for August 2010. Created by Jim Randel, it is the perfect set of books to address many of the issues Americans are dealing with from day-to-day. For details, visit www.theskinnyon.com

* CONVERSATIONS LIVE RADIO: After celebrating its 7th year on the radio in July 2010, Conversations LIVE Radio will bring you over 50 guests during the month of August 2010 that will span the arts, entertainment and current events that you have been hearing about. To see the full listing of guests, click this link: http://conversationslive.blogspot.com/2010/07/coming-up-in-august-2010-on.html

* (Sat. Aug. 7, 2010) Bestselling authr Roy Glenn will travel to Hinds, Rankin and Madison counties on Sat. August 7, 2010 to promote his newest book. For details of his schedule, visit this link:
http://conversationsbookclub.blogspot.com/2010/07/sat-aug-7-2010-mississippi-welcomes.html

* (Tues. Aug. 10, 2010) Motivational speaker and author Shay Olivarria will be in Mississippi on Tues. Aug. 10, 2010 sharing ways to make the best use of money using her book MONEY MATTERS. For details of her visit, click here: http://conversationsbookclub.blogspot.com/2010/07/tues-aug-10-2010-mississippi-welcomes.html

* (Saturday, August 14, 2010) ---- Shadow Play Entertainment will be hosting its next Hip Hop and Books Literacy Rally on Sat. August 14, 2010 beginning at 4p.m. at Smith Park (302 Amite St. *Jackson, MS). The free event will include performances by Mississippi's own Unik, Spida, Young Boi Hulk as well as special guests Joey Calendar and Pryce of Brite Mic Ent. from Oakland, California and Hip Hop and Books newest spokesperson Bigg Marv. For details visit this link: http://artbooksandbeats.blogspot.com/2010/07/west-coast-hip-hop-joins-south-in.html

* The Hip Hop and Books Literacy Campaign welcomes its new National Spokesperson, Bigg Marv. Known to many as the cousin of rap superstar M. C. Hammer and one of the co-stars of the hip reality show on A&E HAMMERTIME, Marv has been making moves promoting causes he believes in. Currently he is the President of the teen-driven non-profit HODGE PODGE, and will be traveling the country promoting the importance of reading and staying in school. For more details, visit www.hiphopandbooks.net.

* INSPIRATIONAL CONVERSATIONS'S NEW ONLINE HOME: The newest member of th Conversations radio family has been the creation of "Inspirational Conversations" on Sunday mornings at 10:30a.m. EST (9:30a.m. CST/7:30a.m. PT). Hosted by Cyrus Webb and author Mary E. Gilder, the program is designed to give listeners a message and motivation as they head into a new week. You can now keep up with the show, hear from the hosts and listen to past episodes online at http://inspirationconversations.blogspot.com.

To stay abreast of all the most recent news with Shadow Play Entertainment, visit www.shadowplayent.com. You can also contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

West Coast Hip Hop Joins The South In Promoting Reading

2010-07-27T09:06:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, August 14, 2010 Mississippi will host its next Hip Hop and Books Rally to promote the importance of reading, but the special guests are joining the event from California's Oakland area. Founder Cyrus Webb is pleased to announce that recording artists Joey Calendar and Pryce of Brite Mic Entertainment along with Bigg Marv (cousin of rap superstar M. C. Hammer and one of the stars of the hit reality show HAMMERTIME on A&E) will be in the Magnolia State beginning Friday, August 13th, sharing great music and their commitment to the cause.

"No matter where you live, reading is something you can't get away from," says Bigg Marv, who will become the new national spokesperson for the Hip Hop and Books Literacy Campaign beginning August 1, 2010. Having been around the entertainment industry all his life, he knows that knowing how to read well is a stepping stone to anything else you choose to do.

Joey Calendar agrees. In a statement to Cyrus Webb about why he and the other artists of Brite Mic Entertainment wanted to get involve in the Hip Hop and Books project, he said this: "Some think that just because you sing, dance or rap that you don't have to take education and things like reading seriously. That couldn't be further from the truth. The music industry is a business, and if you are going to be successful in it, you are going to need to know how to read things like contracts, etc. You can't take anything for granted. After the music is gone, you will always have what you know to keep you going."

Hip Hop and Books was created in 2008 by Cyrus Webb and co-founder Corey "C-Murder" Miller as a way to encourage reading among the urban and Hip Hop communities. Since its inception, it has given away over $5,000.00 in books to individuals who attend their free concerts and events.

The next Hip Hop and Books rally will take place on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at Smith Park (302 Amite St. * Jackson, MS) from 4-6p.m. Hosted by Cyrus Webb, the event will also feature performances by Playa Connected, Unik, Young Boi Hulk, Spida and others. As in the past, there will be books available for all who attend.

Admission to the rally is free, however, the artists will have merchandise available for purchasing. For more details, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.hiphopandbooks.net or www.shadowplayent.com.

AUTHENTIC: Bringing A Unique Sound And Flavor To Hip Hop

2010-07-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb

The group's name says it all: Authentic. Members Shiest D, Jay R3d and Doja have been together musically for about three and a half years, but they are working together to create music and a brand that will be timeless for lovers of Hip Hop.

What began in 2007 by working on a mixtape together as solo artists has led to them landing a digital distribution deal with Island Def Jam for their single FALL IN. This however, seems to only be the beginning of a new chapter in the lyrical volume Authentic is penning. Three guys will their own style and different personalities have been joined by one goal: creating real music for themselves and the masses. No matter how different they sound apart, when they come together there is a doubt they were united in their desire to give their best and produce great music.

When asked what they hope they bring to the music industry and Hip Hop lovers, Authentic says it wanted to empower peope of all ages to go after their dreams. They also want to show that you can pursue your career and still not neglect your education. They can speak on this, because they are all attending school at Jackson State University in Jackson, MS.

To record their music is one thing, but how does it feel to perform it? Shiest D says its an incredible feeling. He also says that even though none of them thought they would be in a group, it is more comfortable to be on stage with others you know share your passion for what you are doing.

Hip Hop has had its detractors over the years, and Authentic believes that those who see the culture and its music as evil or empty of any actual mesage, should take some time and listen to what they are producing. They feel as though they are not just entertaining but educating as well. They also believe their positive message shows that you don't have to rap about things that aren't beneficial. You can have a unique point of view and show a better way of living.

The single that is getting all of the attention currently is FALL IN. It was written in 2009 for their new album and thanks to the buzz on Youtube, social networking sites and the day-to-day grind on the streets, it got the attention of Island Def Jam. Through the lyrics and the chorus, the guys of Authentic are letting the world know that they are here to stay and everyone needs to pay attention.

Now that a major label has taken notice and the song is available on I-Tunes, it is spreading the word and the group's fan base as well as giving them more promotion, opening doors for more opportunities, shows and the all important radio time.

Authentic hopes this will all lead to a major deal for their next album, but either way they are still working on their own company not just with music but entertainment as a whole. Their advice to others? "Follow your dreams. If you act upon them, everything will come into place."

For more information about the group, visit www.authentic.phxcomp.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/AuthenticIVLife or friend them on Facebook under "Authentic Fan Club".

(Opinion) Why President Obama Should Vacate His Glass House

2010-07-20T07:42:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb

The adage about those living in glass houses not throwing stones is one that all of us should pay attention to, but especially those working in public office. This week, the President gave the American people and in turn the world a fresh look at why we should practice what we preach, especially if we are going to be attempting to make an example of and embarrass others.

On Monday, July 19th he was front and center in front of the cameras once again telling the world why Democrats were for the people and the Republican Party were nothing more than people who cared more about an election than the unemployed. His speech was about the unemployment benefits and how millions of Americans were in need of the money that Congress seemed unwilling to give them. His reason why they were opposing him? Simply put, politics.

It was as if he had forgotten that just last Fall when the country found itself in need of additional unemployment benefits that they were extended after the money was found to pay for it. What the President forgot to mention on Monday while he stood with three individuals he said were in need of the extension was that the Republicans were for extending the benefits once they were paid for, just as they were last time. He forgot to tell the American people that the bad Republicans suggested they use unspent money from the President's stimulus to cover the cost, something that others were in favor of.

Why is this so important? You might remember that it was this President that made a large proclamation to the American People that he would make sure all programs were paid for. Remember this? So why did he not accept the Republican's suggestion to use the stimulus funds to pay for the extension of unemployment benefits? Ironically, it seems for the same reason he has blamed them for blocking it: Politics.

What does it say when a man who ran on a message of change and getting rid of politics as usual governs on the same platform he campaigned against? What does it say about a man when everything good that happens during his administration is his doing, but any problems and setbacks are the blame of the previous administration? And most importantly, what does it say about how naiive he believes the American people are when the Democrats have had control of Congress for almost 4 years and the President---also a Democrat--- has been in office almost two years, yet it is always the Republicans who are stopping all the good that could be done?

Those living in glass houses should not throw stones, but they should also remember that if they do, they need to watch out for the pieces that fall down around them: whether in Nov. 2010 or 2012.

DRIVEN: A Conversation With Supermodel Miguel Perdomo

2010-07-06T05:17:00.000-07:00

In less than a decade, supermodel Miguel Perdomo* has achieved more in his professional than most people see in their entire lifetime---and he's only 28 years old. Whether it is on national tv, international fashion events, print campaigns with Sean John and others as well as runways, there's no getting away from this talented go-getter, and he wouldn't have it any other way.

Cyrus Webb* recently caught up with Miguel to talk about his accomplishements, what keeps him grounded and what those looking up to him need to know about his career.

Here is their conversation.

First of all, Miguel, thank you for taking out a few moments to talk with us. I guess we'll start at the beginning. What initially got you interested in modeling?
Modeling was a career that I kind of fell into. I never really wanted to model. I wanted to play ball or box. What got me in the modeling world was basically doing something people wouldn't think I can do. When I use to say I'm going to become a fashion model, people thought I was joking. I prove myself and them wrong, and it's been working ever since.

Is this a career that those close to you initially supported?
The response my family and friends have is that they can't believe how much I have accomplished in such short time. It's very overwhelming to see them embrace it.

What would you say is your most notable achievement?
My most notable credit is being recognized as "The 1st Dominican Male Model" even though there have been some before me, none to represent the culture the way I do.

The business can be quite competitive. How do you remain relevant and build on your brand?
I keep myself relevant through networking and all social sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Model Mayhem, etc. This is all about hustling. Hustle means hard work, so I definitely grind out. Any event that New York has to offer I'm there just for networking purposes.

All of us are faced with challenges in our career. How have you remained focused in the face of challenges?
I have been successful my whole life just because of my belief in myself and my family. They support my every move and every goal.

Outside of modeling, what are some of your interests?
Outside of modeling I do graphic design and freelance as well for other brands. Fashion for me is a lifestyle, not a job, so I stay busy however I can.

What advice would you give those who are looking at you, Miguel, as a model of what they can accomplished?
My only advice is remain humble as all times and definitely open your eyes to the world surrounding you. There's more to the eye once you open your mind.

Thank you again for your time. Where can people find out more information about you online (website, social networking,etc)?
Thank you for the opportunity. I can be found at www.modelmayhem.com/MIGUELPERDOMO, www.facebook.com/MIGUELPERDOMO, www.twitter.com/MPERDOMO23 and also www.2RsEntandMedia.com

* Photos of Miguel Perdomo are by Angel Hernandez used with permission by 2Rs Entertainment and Media. Cyrus Webb is the Editor-In-Chief of Conversations Magazine and a contributor writer for Crunk Magazine, Hype Magazine, S.T.I.L.L. Magazine and other publications. He can be reached at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Cyrus Webb Interviews Fellow Competitors From Oprah Winfrey Network Competition

2010-07-04T10:56:00.001-07:00

Curious about the stories of other competitors from the Oprah Winfrey Network TV Competition and interested in sharing them with his radio show listeners, Cyrus Webb of Conversations LIVE Radio interviews some of those who took place in the first year of the contest to see why they did it, what they hope comes from it, and what they are continuing to do to better the world.

* On Monday, May 24, 2010, Webb interviewed Julie Kaufmann of Chicago about what led her to audition for the competition, and the two shared the internet error that brought them together.

Listen the interview here.

* On Tuesday, May 25, 2010, Webb interviewed author and educator Alvin Delgado of New York about his book and his inspiring story that he hoped to share with viewers on OWN.

Listen to the interview here.

* Just days before the competition ended,on Thursday, July 1, 2010 Webb interviewed Darnell "Super Chef" Ferguson of Cooking In 10 about his love of food and why he felt he belonged on OWN.

Click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1130675 and fast forward to 30 min. into the program to hear his story.

* On Sunday, July 11, 2010, Webb interviewed marketing strategist Pamela Muldoon about the work she is doing to help small businesses, why she entered the Oprah tv competition and what's next for her.

Click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1146463 and fast forward to 30 min. into the program to hear her story.

* On Wednesday, July 14, 2010, Webb interviewed author and life coach Tanya T. Morris who also entered the competition.

Click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1147494 and fast forward to 30 min. into the program to hear her story.

* On Thursday, July 15, 2010, Webb interviewed marketing strategist and talk show host Michelle Vandepas about what she is doing to help authors promote themselves and why she took advantage of the tv competition.

Click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1147507 and fast forward to 30 min. into the program to hear her story.

* On Mon. July 26, 2010, Webb interviewed Kristen Alexandre about how she hoped to bring her love of animals and the environment to a national platform through the tv competition. Click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1170006 and fast forward to the 30 min. mark to hear her story.

* On Monday, July 26, 2010 Webb also talked with event planner and consultant Wilson Mesa about his experience with the contest and how he is moving forward to see his dreams come true.
Click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1170018 and fast forward to 30 min. into the program to hear Mesa's story.

* On Tues. July 27th, Webb spoke with radio show host and educator CC Lawhon about her amazing journey and how she is using her skills to empower others. Click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1170034 and fast forward to 30 min. into the program to hear Lawhon's story.

* Also on Tues. July 27th, Webb spoke with entrepreneur and talk show host Ray Faulkenberry about his skills and how he is using his faith and experiences to help other reach for higher ground. Click this link http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2010/07/28/life-coach-darlene-ouimet-and-entrepreneur-ray-fau and fast forward to 30 min. into the program to her Faulkenberry's story.

* On Thursday, July 29, 2010, Webb talked with George Resch of www.happyisthenewrich.com about his changes in life, why he entered the competition, and how he is still pursuing his goals with or without the Oprah network.
To listen to the show, click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1170065 and fast forward to the 30 min. mark.

* On Mon. Aug. 2, 2010, Webb talked with Jahnavi Foster about how she is helping individuals to use their experiences in life and work for a better future.

To hear the interview, click this link and fast forward to the 30 min. mark of the show.

* On Tues. Aug. 3, 2010, Webb spoke with Debbie Pippins about why she decided to work with deaf children and what she thinks we can learn from them and their experiences in life.
To hear the interview, click this link: http://tobtr.com/s/1181216

* Antoinette Brant talked with Cyrus Webb on Wed. Aug. 4, 2010 about what she was doing to help individuals around her who were in need of a little extra help---and how all of us could do the same.

To hear her interview, click this link http://tobtr.com/s/1183597 and fast forward to the 30 min. mark of the show.

* On Mon. August 9, 2010, Webb talked with actress/radio show host Shari Alyse about the work she is doing to help others live their best life.

To hear the interview click here: http://tobtr.com/s/1196210

* On Tuesday, August 24, 2010, Webb talked with author Karen Ward Wilder about her desire to help our young people live their best lives as well as how she is using the experience in auditioning for the Oprah network to help her in her larger goals.

To hear the interview, visit this link http://tobtr.com/s/1219715 and fast forward to 30 min. into the show.

Mississippi Native Makes Final Pitch To Have "OWN" National TV Show

2010-06-29T06:18:00.000-07:00

(Tuesday, June 29, 2010) Since May 19, 2010 Mississippi native and mult-media personality Cyrus Webb has been actively campaigning in the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) competition to have a national tv show. Now with just days to go before the contest ends, he is taking advantage of every day to get the word out for people to vote for him in this unique opportunity.

Webb, 34, has made this an all-out campaign, creating yard signs, car magnets and flyers trying to get the word out about the competition and why he thinks he should win. He launched the website www.themaleoprah.com to keep people posted on his progress as well as to tout his accomplishments over the past 7 years on radio, tv, print and beyond. Webb started the "I Do It 5 Times A Day" campaign to encourage others to vote at least 5 times a day for him in the competition since there is no limit on the amount of times one person can vote.

Every day he is reminding his Facebook, Twitter and Myspace friends to vote each day, and on Saturday, July 3, 2010---the last day of the competition---he is hosting a "Voting Party" to give people a chance to meet him and cast their votes.

The Voting Party will be held from 11-1:30p.m. at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) and is open to the public as well as the media. The lab has been reserved for the event, and you are able to come in, meet Webb and vote as many times as you would like. This is perfect for those who don't have computers as well as those who want to get to know Webb better and find out what he believes he brings to a national tv platform. Voting for the competition continues until 11:59p.m. EST on Sat. July 3, 2010.

Cyrus Webb has been working for over a decade to bring attention to issues that matter to people of all walks of life. Through his radio and tv show---each called Conversations---he has interviewed over 800 guests including nationally known individuals, up and coming stars as well as those who just have a story that needs to be told. His articles and interviews have appeared in the Clarion Ledger Newspaper, Jackson Advocate, The Rankin Ledger, Mississippi Link, Blagazine, Books2Mention Magazine, Crunk Magazine, Hype Magazine, S.T.I.L.L. Magazine and others. His co-ed book club called Conversations has garnered national attention for its diversity and ability to connect authors and readers. It has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, on MTV and other media outlets.

Currently Webb is in the top 100 of over 3200 entries in his category of Traditional Talk Show with 50,000 plus votes cast for him to date. His goal is to have over 100k votes by the end of the competition.

For more information, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.themaleoprah.com.

(June 23-25, 2010) This Week on Conversations LIVE! Radio

2010-06-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

Radio show host Cyrus Webb ends his sixth year of hosting Conversations LIVE and prepares to usher in year seven with four powerful interviews this week.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23, 2010 (8p.m EST/7p.m. CST/5p.m.PT) --- Leonard Rowe, author of WHAT REALLY HAPPENED TO MICHAEL JACKSON, THE KING OF POP
As the 1 year anniversary of Michael Jackson nears, host Cyrus Webb welcomes concert promoter and author Leonard Rowe to Conversations LIVE! Radio to discuss his career, relationship with the Jackson family, conversations with Michael and the events surrounding the King of Pop's death. Listen live as he discusses his new book WHAT REALLY HAPPENED TO MICHAEL JACKSON THE KING OF POP and takes YOUR QUESTIONS!

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2010 (1p.m. EST/12p.m. CST/10a.m. PT) --- Award-winning recording artist Musiq Soulchild
Cyrus Webb and co-host recording artist Unik welcome award-winning recording artist Musiq Soulchild to Conversations to discuss his career and his newest project.

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2010 (8p.m. EST/7p.m. CST/5p.m. PT) --- Relationship expert Mr. Tell It Like It Is
Host Cyrus Webb welcomes Mr. Tell It Like It Is to talk about men and relationships, why men cheat and lie and his controversial new website http://www.whatyourmanwonttell.com. Have a question about your own relationship or want to challenge Mr. Tell It, listen for your opportunity to do just that!

FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2010 (1p.m. EST/12p.m. CST/10a.m. PT) --- Bigg Marv of A&E's HAMMERTIME
He might be M. C. Hammer's cousin, but Bigg Marv is his own man, living his own life and doing things his way. He talks with Cyrus Webb of Conversations LIVE Radio about his beginnings, what success means to him and what you can expect next.

Listen to the shows live by going to www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive or going through the switchboard at 1.347.426.3645. Missed other interviews by Webb? Catch up by going to www.conversationsliveradio.com.

(Sat. June 26, 2010) Hip Hop and Books Literary Rally in Jackson, MS

2010-06-16T10:28:00.000-07:00

Shadow Play Entertainment and Cyrus Webb host an afternoon of great music and free books just in time for the summer.

This Hip Hop and Books event will take place at Smith Park Downtown (206 Amite St. (Jackson, MS) from 12-3p.m. with performances by recording artists Spida, Unik, Playa Connected, Young Boi Hulk, Black Jewel and more. Domino's Pizza is the official food vendor and will have pizza and drinks available for purchasing.

Hosted by Webb, it is hoped that this event will not only provide great music from some of Mississippi's best, but encourage reading during the summer break for students and adults as well.

For details, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.shadowplayent.com.

Bestselling author Danielle Steel Writes Conversations Book Club President

2010-06-14T15:26:00.000-07:00

International Bestselling Author Danielle Steel Writes Conversations Book Club President
by Cyrus Webb

(Mon. June 14, 2010) One of the great things about what I do professionally is the opportunity to meet fascinating individuals who I in turn can introduce to my readers, listeners and viewers. Sometimes it is someone in the public eye but Conversations has also brought attention to ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things.

When it comes to writers, it is no secret to many who know me that I have a "Wish List" of authors who I would love to talk to about their journey and success. At the top of the list of those I haven't yet interviewed are Stephen King, Judith Krantz, Jackie Collins, Dean R. Koontz and Danielle Steel. Each of them have influenced the literary community in so many ways and thrilled millions of readers for years.

Recently I sent an email through Danielle Steel's website highlighting my feelings towards her books and what I feel as though she has done for individuals like myself who have traveled the world through her characters. She has over 70 titles in print, all of which have become bestsellers. I have read over 30 of her titles, and own 28 in my book collection (see below). Though I knew she is not quick to do interviews, I asked for what I believe is the third time for the opportunity to talk with her on my radio program. It was a long shot, but I am never afraid of a challenge.

Well, imagine my surprise when today I was opening my email and got the following from Ms. Steel herself:

"Dear Mr. Webb,

"Thank you so very much for your lovely letter about my books, which has
just been forwarded to me. I was very touched to hear how you have been
reading them for twenty years and what they have meant to you. It's a real honor
to hear that you run a book club and my work produces so many interesting
discussions. I write the stories with caring and heart, and I like to think
my readers enjoy them in the same spirit.

"I'm sorry that I almost never do interviews or public appearances, although
I do appreciate your kind invitation. Thank you again for sharing your
good words with me. I appreciate hearing from a reader like you, and I send
your book club my warm regards.

"With best wishes,

"Danielle Steel"

I can't really tell you what this email meant to me, but it really illustrates why I do what I do. You never know what you can accomplish with a little hard work. True, I still don't have my interview with Ms. Steel (not yet, at least), but my perseverence is definitely paying off. This is a lesson that I hope others will recognize in their own lives as well.

Conversations Book Club Announces Its "Top 25 Summer Reads, 2010"

2010-06-09T17:08:00.000-07:00

One of the main reasons Conversations Book Club is widely respected across the world is because it looks for books that satisfy all reading appetites and makes them available to the literary community, whether they are traditionally published books or those independently released. This year's summer reading list is a perfect mixture of both non-fiction and fiction titles that are sure to keep you entertained and enlightened this summer, and give you something to talk about long after you finish them.

Book club Founder and President Cyrus Webb has read each title and feels like there is truly something for everyone. "We will make book lovers proud with this list," he says. Ready to find out if that's true? Below are this year's selections:

NON-FICTION TITLES (Listed in no particular order)
1. Didn't I Feed You Yesterday by Laura Bennett (Ballantine Books)
2. The Reluctant Spy by John Kiriakou (Bantam Books)
3. Wake Up! by Michelle Pearl
4. Living Oprah by Robyn Okrant (Hatchette Book Group)
5. The Skinny On Success by Jim Randel (Rand Publishing)
6. New From The Inside Out by Kim Vazquez
7. A Life On The Run by Dr. John Telford (Harmonie Park Press)
8. Pharoah by DaPharoah69 (TKOE Publications)
9. Broken Birds by Jeanette Katzier
10. Young Professional's Guide To Success by Ryan Kohnen (Emerald Book Co.)
11. Writing For The Soul by Jerry B. Jenkins (Writer's Digest Books)
12. Tough Choices by Carly Fiorina (Penguin Group)

FICTION TITLES (Listed in no particular order)
1. Excess Baggage by Sean Gardner (Everlast Publishing)
2. Don't Hate the Game by Michael T. Owens and others (Montage Publishing)
3. A Wish After Midnight by Zetta Elliott (Amazon Encore)
4. Diary of a Stalker by Electa Rome Parks (Urban Renaissance)
5. Holy Rollers by Reshonda Tate Billingsley (Simon & Schuster)
6. Get Lucky by Katherine Center (Ballantine Books)
7. The Language of Secrets by Dianne Dixon (Doubleday)
8. Guardian Angel by Andrew Neiderman (Dorchester Pub)
9. Sweet Deception by Patricia Sargeant (Kensington Books)
10. White Tombs by Christopher Valen (Conquill Press)
11. Nick, Dontae, Gus & Jack by Nigel Barto (I Universe)
12. 2 In The Hat by Raffi Yessayan (Ballantine Books)
13. Spooky Little Girl by Laurie Notaro (Villard Books)

To see what books have been recognized in the past, visit www.thebestbookclub.info. Have books you want to suggest to Webb and Conversations Book Club? Email him at cawebb4@juno.com.

Podcast #004 Freeman Michaels interviews Cyrus Webb

2010-06-07T18:05:00.000-07:00

Podcast #004 Freeman Michaels interviews Cyrus Webb

Had a great time with this interview today with Freeman Michaels and Jordan Mercedes. Please take a listen.

FUNKGHOST: Using Influences From The Past To Create Music For The Future

2010-05-29T02:46:00.001-07:00

FUNKGHOST: Using Influences From The Past To Create Music For The Future
by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Magazine/Shadow Play Entertainment

The man called the “Morris Day of Hip Hop” is relishing in the acclaim his singles “The Way I Rock My Clothes” and "I'm Your DJ" are getting, but remains focused on the goal of just giving the world good music. Known in the business as Funkghost, the Tampa, FL native has always been around beats. His father was a part-time dj, and Funkghost was a fan of the 8 tracks around him and was drawn to music made by artists like Run DMC.

Throughout the years he has always tried to show his support for any creative endeavor, looking for ways to build on his personal brand. As he began to build his reputation, Funkghost knew it was just as important to sell who you are as a person as it is to get your music out to the masses.

Over the years he has been asked for his advice by new artists who are trying to break into the business or that are looking for staying power. What does he tell them? “Don’t sign anything with anyone until you have your paperwork and yourself together legally. You have to protect your name and your image at the same time.”

Funkghost also draws on his own means of staying grounded for the next tip. “Surround yourself with successful people. Relationships are key. Make sure you are in a position where you are keeping all options and doors open.” He also understands what it takes to make it in a business like the music industry that changes everyday. "You have to love what you do. If you are doing it for any reason other than your love of the music, it's not going to work."

Looking back over his career in the entertainment business, Funkghost sees himself as a more seasoned artist and definitely more confident in who he is and what he represents. Above anything, he believes in being true to himself.

When asked how he defines success, Funkghost says it is getting new people to know who he is and to hear his music. Because of this, he is always taking advantage of new and innovative ways of connecting with people such as the social networking sites. He sees them as an invaluable way of reaching new heights as he continues forward with his career.

You can hear Funkghost's interview on Conversations LIVE! with host Cyrus Webb by clicking here. To find out more about Funkghost, go to http://www.funkghost.blogspot.com or follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/funkghost.

Cyrus Webb Launches National Campaign to Compete In Oprah TV Challenge

2010-05-27T04:29:00.000-07:00

(NOTE: To go directly to the voting site, click here. )

For political pundits, "Super Tuesday" in November 2010 is the date they are watching to see what change will come to America, however, Mississippi native and multi-media personality Cyrus Webb is more interested in Saturday, July 3, 2010. That is the final day of voting in the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity being offered by media mogul Oprah Winfrey. The reward? Five individuals who have the most votes on that date will be finalists in her competition to find the next big tv star. Winfrey has partnered with the celebrated producer of Survivor and The Apprentice to create a competition for her new network,the Oprah Winfrey Network or OWN, and 34-year old Webb believes he has a shot.

"It's not so much about thinking I am better than anyone," says Webb, who has been active in the arts and education-related projects for over a decade. "I just believe that I have been blessed with the ability to help others find and share their voices as well as encourage others to do the same."

In 2003 Webb became the host of his own radio show Conversations with C. A. Webb (now called Conversations LIVE). Since 2003 he has interviewed over 800 guests including some of the biggest names in the arts, entertainment and world of literature and those on the rise, as well as brought attention to issues that matter to everyday individuals. In 2005 Webb followed the radio show with the launch of his local tv show Conversations with C. A. Webb on the ABC affilliate in Mississippi. In 2006 Webb launched what is now the largest co-ed book club in the country: Conversations Book Club. The book club covers all genres and has garnered national attention. Webb has also contributed articles and interviews to over a dozen online and print publications including Mississippi's own Clarion Ledger, Jackson Advocate and The Mississippi Link.

When Webb heard about the competition Oprah was hosting, he knew that it was something he had to do. The contest was announced on Friday, May 14, 2010 and by the 19th Webb had submitted his audition video and was asking for votes.

To help Webb in his endeavor to be one of the 5 finalists on Sat. July 3rd, he is rolling out a national campaign with individuals across the country to make sure the word gets out. He has also launched www.themaleoprah.com to allow people a place to learn about him, vote and also do something else: vote for others, too!

"We can't make it in this world alone," Webb explains. "Yes, it is a competition, but I want to help others as they pursue their dreams as well. This is an opportunity for all of us to bring attention to what matters most to us." Because of this, friends of Webb who have entered the competition are also linked on www.themaleoprah.com so visitors can vote for them.

Webb is using social networking sites to get the word out and will also be leading an offline campaign complete with t-shirts and posters to remind people to vote all the way to the deadline. "It's all about consistancy," he says. "It's not about how strong you start. It's the finish that matters."

Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden of Peeples Middle School: Teaching From The Heart To Reach The Heart

2010-05-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb, Conversations Magazine/ Shadow Play Entertainment

She has been a teacher in the public school system for only two years. For Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden, however, her journey to being an educator at Peeples Middle School began many years ago. "It was bound to happen that I would end up teaching," she says with a smile. "When I was little, my grandma called me a school teacher." Referencing her mother and grandmother when it comes to what led her into the schools shows that her family was a major influence in her life. It was that push that led her into childcare first and now where she is today. "Learning has always been important to me."

Learning may have always been a priority, but during Mrs. Bolden's college years, there was some doubt. "I wasted some time," she admits, but in the end I looked at all of the hard work I had put it and knew I had to keep going in order to accomplish my goals."

That goal includes what she is doing today in Jackson, Mississippi. She teaches five classes of students, but anyone who spends time in her classroom know that it's a give and take that gets the students involved. How does she get and keep their attention? "If they know you have passion," says Mrs. Bolden,"they are going to recognize that you are doing this for them. I am a firm believer that if it comes from the heart it goes to the heart."

She also realizes its not just about talking at them. It takes getting involved in their lives as well. "I get respect from the students because I give it to them. I let them know I am here for them." Another thing that separates her classes from others is that she welomes the community's involvement through special guests. In 2010 along she has hosted several indivdiuals that have spoken to her students including Texas authors Jermnine Demouchette and Mr. Mean Mug, California author Herndon Davis and recording artist Lo Watts of Playa Connected. Mrs. Bolden says that this helps them to see that more than just the teachers and the school cares. They see the community and others outside their everyday circle care as well.

It is this attitude that makes her a favorite of those in her classes and a model for others in the public school system to emulate.

(Mon. May 17, 2010) News From Shadow Play Entertainment

2010-05-17T11:33:00.001-07:00

Since January 2010, clients of Shadow Play Entertainment have appeared in over 50 stories online and in print as well as on radio an tv programs. With Spring here and Summertime approaching, Shadow Play President Cyrus Webb is excited about what is in the works for the rest of the year as well as things yet to come. In this newsletter you will get a snapshot of current activities and ongoing projects.

* Shadow Play Enertainment's pride and joy, Conversations LIVE! Radio, is gearing up for it's 7th year of interviews and discussions in July 2010. To prepare, the program is taking a hiatus beginning Monday, June 7, 2010 until Friday, June 25, 2010. When the program returns it will continue to host Chef Bruce Tretter's "Quick and Easy Cooking", Herschel Dixon's "Weekly Sports Wrap-Up" and Gail Ambeau's "Fashion Forward". New to the line-up will be an exciting new program called "Inspirational Conversations" with Cyrus Webb and co-host Mary Gilder, author of A MISREPRESENTATION OF MYSELF. It will air live on Sunday mornings at 10:30a.m. EST (9:30a.m. CST/7:30a.m. PT) and include an musical selection, words of inspiration for the week by Gilder and either a guest or book selection from Webb. Look for more details soon at www.conversationsliveradio.com.

* On Thursday, May 20, 2010, J. Nicole Spencer (author of SARAH'S SECRETS) will be an in-studio guest on The Angie Strader Show. Details are at www.tinyurl.com/theangiestradershow or www.wishuponahero.com

* Ladies, are you looking for something that visually expresses the beauty you feel about yourself on the inside? Then fashion designer Gail Ambeau has something for you. Introducing Ambeau's Affirmations, and the first t-shirt, I AM BEAUTIFUL, is now available. See the shirt and get details at www.tinyurl.com/gailambeau and purchase yours here: https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=twjfOo_yt393XKGheyldLi_9_vHyYR-sRQWrn7TB7w_pWutBS8VnPQQfI4i&dispatch=50a222a57771920b6a3d7b606239e4d529b525e0b7e69bf0224adecfb0124e9bd7371532d7fbae47438e81694aebe304157fd44efd47332c

* Throughout May 2010 and continuing throughout September 2010, a body of talented authors are "touring" the world with Shadow Play Entertainment through interviews, profiles and book discussions in what is called the Conference Call Conversations Tour. Visit www.conversationstour.com for all the details about how you can "book" any of them today. You can also purchase their book directly from the site through Amazon.com. Participating authors include Electa Rome Parks (DIARY OF A STALKER), Jermaine Demouchette (JAMES DEMOUCHETTE VS. THE STATE OF TEXAS), J. Nicole Spencer (SARAH'S SECRETS), Andre Johnson (YEARNING FOR CONTROL), Deborah Gary (TEENAGE MOTHER'S GUIDE TO SURVIVAL: Rising Above The Odds), D. D. Turner (CHRONICLES OF A HIP HOP LEGEND), Steve Hyppolite (A WARRIOR'S PASSAGE), Mary E. Gilder (A MISREPRESENTATION OF MYSELF), Mr. Mean Mug (TATTOO TEARS), Maria Stewart (LOOKING FOR CLOSURE), Mark Eller (TRAITOR), Gary Kaschak (LIFESTONE), Rita B. Davis (OVERWHELMED), Joseph Henderson (I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALL ALONE), Patricia A. Thomas (GOD REVEALS A MYSTERY), H. Michael Harvey (PAPER PUZZLE), T. C. Alexander (CONSEQUENCES OF ADULTERY), Dr. Diane Hassan (ANGELS AMONG US...EVEN IN IRAQ), DeLa Sandra McKnight (THE SPIRIT OF NEW ORLEANS) and Tray Chaney (THE TRUTH YOU CAN'T BETRAY).

* In May 2010 Cyrus Webb visited Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden's classes at Peeples Middle School in Jackson, MS to talk about who they are, how the world sees them and what their plans are for the future. The project was called "What Makes Me ME" and resulted in the students pouring out their hearts on paper for the world to see. Read their amazing stories here: http://cawebbonline.blogspot.com/2010/05/shadow-play-entertainment-presents-what.html

* Ever since USA Today profiled Cyrus Webb's forum on the Presidential election in 2008, his series "Cyrus Webb Presents..." has gotten national attention. Now with them being carried not only with in-person events but through his radio show Conversations LIVE!, people everywhere are paying attention and getting involved. See which conversations you missed and what's coming up at this link: http://cawebbonline.blogspot.com/2010/05/introducing-cyrus-webb-presents.html

For more information about any of the above, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also find out additional information at www.shadowplayent.com or www.cyruswebb.com.

Shadow Play Entertainment Presents "What Makes Me ME" Volume 1

2010-05-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

They're only four words, but they can be a question or an absolute expression of who you are: "What Makes Me ME". That was the assignment that multi-media personality Cyrus Webb of Shadow Play Entertainment presented to Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden's students at Peeples Middle School in Jackson, MS on May 4th and 5th of 2010. Regardless of what they thought their fellow classmates knew about them or what others might have said about them, this was their opportunity to share with the world who they were in their own words.

It was a challenging assignment, but one that most of the students took hold of and completed. They were not told what to share. They were not told how much to write. They were just asked to tell you about them.

Here you will find the essays that will be part of a special project that Shadow Play Entertainment and Cyrus Webb are calling "What Makes Me ME, Volume 1". Enjoy!

PEEPLES MIDDLE SCHOOL (Jackson, MS)

"Making good grades and being a football player makes me me. First, school and education come first before any sports. Education is important, because it can get you somewhere. Playing sports is great, too, but I still go with education. Football is my favorite sport, and I will go pro."

"I am very quiet. I don't like talking to alot of people, because I don't know how to hold a conversation. I love playing video games, because I don't get to go outside. My parents are very protective of me. My plans when I grow up is to become a game designer. One of my biggest goals is to learn how to talk to people without being shy. Everybody always tell me that I will come out of it. I also love animals."

"What makes me me? I like playing basketball. I play for Peeples Middle School. I like making good decisions. I am in the 8th grade and will be going to Terry High School."

"I like teasing. I'm doing good at school. I'm passing all of my classes, and I already know how to drive."

"What makes me, me? I've been through alot in my life, but when we discovered that my dad had Alzheimer’s, it was a heartbreaker. What makes me me is that I'm not afraid to say that I actually have emotions. As I stated before, I have been through alot."

"Have you ever felt that you miss something so much that you want to give up all hope? Well, I used to live in Florida with my mom and my brother until we got the news about my dad. I guess the stress was too much on my mom, and we then discovered she had congested heart failure. My feelings are skin deep, and once again the fact that I've been through alot, and I can honestly say I'm a real man. That's what makes me me."

"What makes me me is just by staying to myself. I don't hang around the bad kids. I hang with myself sometimes or with the good kids. When I was in the seventh grade, I got jumped by some kids. This was at Siwell Middle School. I am the one that always get picked on."

"I am very unique. I have my own style. I plan to attend college. When I graduate from college I would like to be a doctor or lawyer. I want to be very successful in my career. I wish that my family had alot of money. If we had that money, I would make our community better and do many more things in the city of Jackson. I hope all my friends go to High School and attend college to make something out of themselves. I also hope they have a good job. This is a little about me. I plan to achieve all of my goals."

"The things that make me Me are the things that have happened in my life. I have been through so much stuff that goes as far as my mother and her decisions. The boys that I have let take part in my life have taught me alot. The girls I used to call my friends are no longer my friends. There is a reason for everything, but sometimes I just can't find it. My sisters and brothers also make me who I am. There are four special people in my life that have made me the person I am today. I love them for everything they do and have done. Another thing That is great in my life is school. If I wasn't in school, I wouldn't be where I am today. I try to ignore the ignorance, and I live for what I want. Life is what you make it."

"I love singing and dancing. My mom is always telling me to stop making all that noise. I try my best at school to make As and Bs on my report card and progress reports. I always try to beat my Step dad at games we play on Xbox 360 all the time."

"In my life sometimes I go through things, but when I go through things, I pray to God. Children have called me out of my name since I was in Elementary School, but I still just move on. The friends I hang around cause me to go the wrong way. I try to stay on the right track and not mess up, but some comes my way every time. At home I sometimes feel sad, because you have to clean, do other things, school, and this and that. Sometimes I just want to go away. It's alot, but I just keep it all in. I let some of it out by crying and my heart just be hurting. The only time I'm happy is when I talk to my boyfriend. He makes me smile, laugh and everything. And we talk on positive things, nothing negative. These are just some of the problems I have in my life."

"What makes me me is the fact that I don't let alot of stuff get to me. I do play alot at times. I have a nonchalant attitude. I'm originally from Gulfport, MS. Since I was in the 4th grade, I've had to from my point of view look out for myself. My mom is just now stepping in my brother's, sisters and my life. My grandparents raised us most of our lives. While living in Clinton (MS), my grandparents gave my sister the choice to either stay with them or stay with my mom. So my brother and me were going to Gulfport with our grandparents. My brother and me lived in Gulfport for about two years, then we moved to Jackson. That's what makes me me."

"I was born in Flowood, MS in River Oaks Hospital on August 28th. My mom told me I was the best things that ever happened to her. Later on when I was two years old, my parents got a divorce, so I moved out to a new house that I know call home. I have two brothers. I love my brothers with all my heart, but they get on my nerves. For 1st through 3rd grade I was in Catholic school. The tuition got too high, and I was sent to public school. I got to fighting with my friend in 4th grade, . I was later suspended and couldn't go to the dance. Middle School has been fun. I have had arguments with a couple of my friends. I have learned when people talk about you that you shouldn't take it to heart, because they most likely are insecure and need to talk about others to make themselves feel better."

"What makes me me is... ME. I have my own way of life, my own swagger. My mom and dad are in my life. My dad is not visible, but he is heard everyday at night. He is overseas on a contractor job, so my mom is at home with me trying to make due until my dad comes home. I actually don't like my home, because my mom treats me like I was the stepchild, and because my sister is pregnant. She is the royal child. I think that she should be the stepchild for getting pregnant. My big brother lives with us, too. I can't wait until my dad comes home, because when he is here a whole lot of things change. I am the person that makes me me."

"If I had a chance to make a difference in my life, I would turn my life around by not cussing and acting like a child. I am a quiet, confident person, and the one true dream that I really want to accomplish is becoming a rapper. I love to rap. I could rap about anything and everything. When I was younger, I used to write stories but now I love to rhyme so I'm going to stick to tat one true dream."

"In my life I am having problems with my mom. She treats my younger three brothers better than she treats me. Sometimes that hurts. In my future I want to work with animals. I love to be around and help animals. I plan on owning my own vet, but I also want to follow in the career of drawing. Basically I am torn in between the two."

"My mom is what makes me. I say this, because no matter what I do she will support me no matter what is said. I have also told her that after I leave college that I would like to start my own daycare. She said that she would do all that she could do to help me. She has even helped me now by telling her friends about my babysitting."

"For my high school year I will be attending Forest Hill High School. I am on their drill team for 2010-2011. My favorite hobby is dancing."

"I am from New Orleans, LA. I like to dance and do hair. I've had so many deaths in my family. It been kind of hard for me to get back on track. I like to read various types of books with lots of drama. I really do not have problems, but I have family issues I have to deal with until it gets taken care of. When I get older, I want to have my own shop full of hair products."

"My past is what makes me me. My mother is a very strict woman. My mother was beaten by my stepfather around 2006. Ever since then she's gotten even more strict. When I was twelve, I did think about suicide. I couldn't take living any longer. People were spreading rumors, and I had gotten punished for getting suspended. That's what made me the man I am, and I've been dreaming big since then. When I grow up I want to become an attorney. I am going to pursue my dreams to the fullest."

"I'm a funny and cool person to hang around. I love being with my friends and on the phone."

"What makes me me is that I have not had the greatest childhood. My dad used to beat on my mom. I have seen my friends do drugs, and have had one of my friends shot in the head. I have been bit by a pit bull on my arm. I have a cousin who was shot in front of his house. I am still positive about the future. When I grow up, I would like to become a pro football player."

"What made me me? What made me me is how my mother stays on my tail. My mother wants everything to be perfect. She always tells e that I can do better, but I like the way she stays on me. It helps me to do better as I grow up in the big world. It getting easier as I get older."

"The only one bad thing that I can actually remember is that a person close to me has gotten beaten. I actually remember we were going to the park and my grandma and her boyfriend stayed in the car. I saw him beat her while in the car. I'm glad to say that she got out of it and now is an ordained minister. Since I see that she turned her life around and is doing something good, that inspires me to just listen to my elders and stay on the right track. I also want to be a best-selling author."

"What I want to do for now is get a car and play football then get a house and live my life on from there."

"What makes me me is that I do things that some kids don't do. The person that made me who I am today is my grandma. I am the second oldest sibling, and I stay with my grandma and my oldest sister. I lost my dad while in the 4th grade. I lost his mother (my other grandma) in the 3rd grade. Every night before I go to sleep, I sometimes crazy. I always had somebody to talk to, but now they're gone. My grandma on my mother's side is trying to stay strong for me. I always was with my dad every day after school. I remember what my daddy told me. He said, 'Whenever a door closes, God always opens a window or another.' I sometimes cry when I talk about the things that we did. I was at Blackburn Middle School before I came to Peeples. I really like it here at Peeples because I made alot of friends. So all I got to say is R.I.P. to my Dad and my grandma. I love both of you no matter what. I will always do what you told me. I will watch over my sisters and brothers like I promised. So I love you both and will never do anything to disappoint you."

"I am a racer. I will go for anything that can make me successful in life. I want to be an engineer, lawyer and maybe a film producer. I got a dirt bike that take names like that hot rod or ninja. That little green bike can move faster than a car. I will take any challenge in life. Live on, kids, and follow your dream."

"The first major thing happened to me 5 years ago when my mom's fiancé was shot 16 times at his job. The second thing that happened to me was 8 years ago when I was 6 years ago when I was 6 years old. I was hit by an Explorer truck. I had an abusive stepmother and instead of hitting me, she ran over me. The only person I could talk to died when I was in the hospital, so that really hurt, too. What I want to do is talk to children and help them make good decisions when they get older. I also want to be a lawyer to make sure people get treated fairly. I want to be the First Lady President. I want to be a congresswoman. I feel like there's alot I can do to help my community and everyone in it. All the money I make will go towards rebuilding my community and helping the disabled adults and children. God is love, and love is hope that we will succeed."

"I grew up in Raymond, MS, living with my grandparents. I used to live in an abusive household with my father beating on my mother. Every since then I told my mom I will never go through what she went through. As a child getting older, I didn't understand why he did what he did, so I treated him different. Then during my sixth grade year in school the most tragic thing happened to me: my dad died at the age of 38. I was only 12 when it happened. Every since then I have always dreamed of being a doctor."

"I am in the band at Peeples Middle School. I want to become a businessman and run my own company."

"I am a great person. Sometimes I act foolish, but I have a very good life. I want to become a very successful person and graduate college. From here I want to go on and fulfill my dream to become a pro football player. I also want to become a loving and caring father."

"The struggle in my economy and family are what make me who I am today. The pain also makes me who I am. I want to be a well known football star that everyone knows."

"As a little girl, I participated in pageants. I was Little Miss America. Nobody wanted their daughters to compete against me. They always used to ask my mom for tips and advice, but she never told them too much. In middle school I participated in drill team and track. At first I couldn't really dance, but I eventually learned how. In track I was the truth. It's almost like I'm an Energizer Bunny because after a race in like 5 min. I would be ready to run again. When I grow up I plan on going pro in track and look up to my role model Wilma Rudolph."

"I was born in November 1995 in Jackson, MS. I attend Peeples Middle School. When I finish with middle school, I would like to attend Forest Hill High School. After that I would like to attend Mississippi State University. I want to become a successful pediatrician when I finish college."

"I'm a very young gentleman who loves school, and I'm very active. I want to become a famous NBA All-Star, but if I don't make it there, I will become an architect."

"I am smart, and I want to play football when I grow up. I have played it ever since I was little. When I get to the Pros, I'm going to make a lot of money and take care of my family because it is the right thing to do. I want to play for the New Orleans Saints because that is one of my favorite teams."

"I'm kind of a mama's boy. My favorite sport is football, and yes I kills in that. I also enjoy boxing. Someday I would like to become a professional boxer, and yeah I'm going to be undefeatable. That's just me."

"I want to become a mathematician. I love math. My attitude makes me me. I have a smart mouth which makes me fun. Also people who talk about me makes me who I am, because it makes me stronger."

"My father did drugs and tried to himself many times. One day he supposedly succeeded. That was about 5 years ago. Ever since, I have been lonely. I tried to kill myself once, but I stopped myself. I feel as if I have been abandoned, so tend to keep to myself. I like to be alone, but I always want someone there for me. I feel as if no one cares about me, and no one loves me. Even though I am going through this, I still wish to be somebody. I don't really know what I want to be when I grow up, but I want to explore different things and find what's best for me."

"Most of the time at school I am very loud and fun to be around. I think I have alot of friends because of my happy and funny spirit. I think I am a very intelligent and beautiful young lady that can be anything I put my mind to. I have always wanted to become a beautician since I can remember. I do my hair, my family's hair and even my friends. I'm very good at what I do. It has been my dream to own my own beauty shop or be a stylist. I know that I can and will make my dream come true. I don't take no as an answer."

"I grew up in Jackson (MS) and lived with my grandparents most of my younger childhood. I lived on the inside of abuse done by my father towards my mother. I saw many different cruel acts done against the people I love and because of that I became depressed. I also tried to commit suicide twice. But by the grace of God, I realize that I could be better than that. I love school, and I want to get a good education. I have big dreams for myself. I want to open outreach centers for young girls with stories like mine. I also want to be a general surgeon. I know that I can do anything I try."

"I am a charming, gregarious 8th grader with big dreams. I love dancing, playing, drawing and hanging out with my friends. As the youngest of 4 siblings, I have to make the grades, because I know that my brothers and sisters have already thrown their lives away. Later in life, I want to become a J-Sette of Jackson State. I also would love to become a lawyer."

"I am a cool, funny, smart and crazy girl. When I come to school I have many friends talking to me and clowning around every day. Also, when I am at home, I like to go outside and play with my friends and chill with them. One day I found out that my cousin was in a car accident because he was drinking alcohol, and it made me want to commit suicide. Then I had to think about what would happen to my life. I want to be a basketball player when I get older, and I can't have that dream come true if I die."

"I am a smart, sophisticated, loving girl that attends Peeples Middle School. When I come to school people see me as a smart, funny and crazy girl. At home I'm the coolest person you can ever know. My second aunt was raped and beaten nearly to death. Everyday I think about her screaming it makes me sad. When I grow older I want to become a Federal Marshall."

"I love my life. I love to play football, basketball, soccer and baseball. I have a great family and great friends. I like to hang out with them. I would like to become a pro football player."

"I am a very confident and mature person. I love to be with my family and friends. When I am with my friends, we always have fun---and I am often loud. I am a very outgoing and fun person to be around. I can be silly and goofy, but when it's time to be serious, I can be very serious. I believe I can do anything I get my mind to and that nobody can stop me or put me down. I am not sure what I want to be, but I know I love to be photographed. I know I want to be someone that helps people and make a difference. I want to help people through problems."

"Different things have happened in my life that I wished hadn't happened. My father has diabetes, and my grandpa does too.. Usually they have to go to the hospital alot, and I worry about them alot. My family wants me to make something out of myself. They want me to be better and do things better than what they did. I want to be a singer when I grow up, but if that doesn't really work out, I want to be a lawyer and set examples for other young people that want to reach their dreams."

"I was born in Michigan. My mom was a great woman, but my dad beat on her and always tried to strangle her. By grace she didn't die. My dad used to always tell someone he was going to shoot them...and that's how he died. My dad was in a gang. He lived by the gun and died by the gun. After he died we moved from place to place. We finally got stable and moved to Mississippi. After a few months our step dad moved in. he beat us for everything. One day my sister called (child) services on him, and we were interviewed but nothing happened.. My sister and I ran away one time. They put us in a shelter separating me from my sister, and then we moved in with my aunt. I stayed there about 2 years. This time I believe I'm at the right place. I have won many certificates, and I am ready to go to college to major in Biology and become an orthodontist or dermatologist."

"What makes me me is being criticized by everyone everywhere I go. I have girls who look at me everyday like they're disgusted at me when I haven't done anything to anyone. Boys pick on me because I am smaller than they are, and I don't have the courage to speak up for myself. I can honestly say, though, what doesn't kill me makes me stronger. For years now my family has been having issues with one another. When they get like this, it takes a toll on the whole family. We can't see each other or talk to each other. My aunt lost her mother when she was younger and hasn't been the same since. My mom is scarred along with my uncle and aunt because my cousin was murdered. Some boys jumped him, put a sock in his mouth, and they burned the sock. My sperm donor was never a part of my life. I wish I could call him daddy. It's a little late for that. My stepfather is all the dad I need..."

"Born in September 1996...I attended private school about eight years, then I came to public school..."

"I have to go through alot of things. My dad was shot in the chest. He died in 2004. Then in 2008 my aunt was stabbed numerous times and run over by her boyfriend. In 2009 my grandma and grandfather died. It was hard to see my grandmother leave first and two days later my grandfather died. I was once beat by my mom's boyfriend. Sometimes I would just want to run away. He would sometimes tell me I won't be anything, but he don't know what I can be. He can't stop me from becoming a teacher. That's what I have wanted to be. When my dad passed away, in school my As and Bs became Cs and Ds. It was hard for me to stay focused on my school work. It's hard when you lose your loved ones..."

"What makes me me is staying positive and staying focused. What I have been through in the past is very sad. I lost alot of people. Everybody I was close to died. Every time I think about it I just want to die. I hate the way I look and my size. People talk about my weight and make me want to crawl in a corner and die. I tried to cut my wrists and overdose on pills. I used to smoke weed and was out of control. I talked back to the teachers and said I didn't care. Now I have decided that I don't want to kill myself like my best friend did. We did everything together and now she is dead. So now I'm trying to be a better person. Now I pray every night and tell God to watch over my loved ones and me. I am 15 years old."

"I was born in California and am the youngest in my family. When I was seven years old, my mother died in her sleep. After that, it seemed like nothing was going to get better. I've been talked about, beat on and lied on. It all seemed to happen everyday of my life, but it's one thing I always think of: I'm still here."

"I went through alot in my life. My granddaddy died when I was twelve, and my aunt was shot in the head when I was fourteen. (I am now 15.) My aunt was the closest thing to me. She taught me how to do hair, and she had her own hair salon. I wanted to be just like her when I was little. She would always tell me to think about school and not something that would get me in trouble. One weekend she was at her hair salon, and she went to the club and dropped me off at home. At one o'clock that night she called my momma and told her she got in a fight with some girls at the club. My momma told her just to go home and call her when she gets home. We didn't hear from my aunt in 2 days. We called the police, and they found her in her car shot in the head twice. That was the worst day of my life. I wanted to kill whoever did it."

"What makes me ME? That's a good question. What makes me is my drive and determination. Another thing that makes me ME is the music in my head, the music that surrounds me, and the music I play. Most days I sit in my recliner at home and think about life when mine started, and how it's going to end. I've been through alot over the past 5 years. First it started with the death of my great-grandfather when I was eight. I thought I wasn't going to be sad, but I felt it later on. Then my Uncle died in a car crash. I cried for two days. Now I'm hearing about my (other) uncle dying and now I'm going to have to go to his funeral... After all that, I'm still going to overcome it all. I sit and think of what's going to be my next step to me achieving my dream."

"Dad left my mom when I was only 2 months old, because he was too young and afraid to be a father. It still hurts to know that I grew up without a father. Even though that doesn't matter right now. Growing up with 2 sisters that were very mean and hateful is nothing nice. It was all about jealousy. The older sister was jealous of me because I was the baby. The middle sister was jealous of me because I got more attention from our mother. All this went on everyday until I was 8 years old. When I turned 8, I had to take care of my grandma who was suffering from cancer, diabeties,etc. My aunt was so special to me. I watch both my grandma and aunt suffer. I really thought I was watching and making them die, because I didn't really know how to take care of anyone---not even myself. After they both died in March and May of 2007, my mom began to see the light. She is still grieving today because she has no one to vent to. She tries to encourage us all. I want to be a psychiatrist, but my real passion is art. It help me get away from all the anxiety people dish out to me. Psychiatry is a passion also because all the things that I have been through. I would like to help someone. I want someone to come to me and say that I changed their life, and I made a difference. Still today I am suffering but I think of them as my joy because if I didn't have problems who would I be? Would I even be me?"

"It was hard growing up without food and no clean clothes. As I got older I became successful. I can give my sisters what I didn't have and show them a better life. If my mother doesn't have what they need or can't help them with anything, I am there for them, and I will always be there through thick and thin. If they need anyone to talk to, they an count on me. My mother has been beaten by her boyfriend and then turn around and go back to them. I used to be mad at her... It was tough growing up seeing things happened to my mother when you're not that old and can't help. Now I will lay down my life for my family. If anything happens to them, I will be next. My mother will try to do anything that she could to help us."

"I am a young girl with alot of dreams, potential and integrity. Over the years I have been through alot. Starting with drugs, to crime, to deaths. As I grew up I promised myself that I would not let these problems overwhelm me. I am a person who is very sensitive and caring, but I am someone who strives to do and be the best I can be. My mother grew up in a full household. She has also been through alot. She has taught me to remember that as I grow up there are going to be tons of obstacles that try to derail me, but I have to remember that I am of royal priesthood with nothing missing, nothing broken. I am powerful! That means alot to me. Not too long ago I used to think that I wasn't good for anything or that I couldn't achieve anything. After a while I came to realize that I am who I am. I can be whoever I want to be as long as I keep my trust in God. That has made a difference."

"I don't know what's going to happen when I wake up or close my eyes. If you ask me, the world that we live in can really change a person's like. I was born in Jackson, raised in the deep country without the mind to dream big. You would never know what's going to happen in the next stage in your life. The way males see me, I seem to never know if they come just for me and not for what I have. Boys come and go. They say all kinds of things to me that feel all good and special inside, but they already know what their purpose is---and I don't have a clue. In my household, my mom always says that boys only want one thing, but you know when you get this feeling that always tell you he's different, and you may take up for him until he breaks your heart. I just want the right person to come for me with a good purpose: to love me and not what they see."

"I have had a great life so far. Well, I grew up with my dad in jail, but my step dad took care of my mom and us. We always went to see my dad, my sister and me. I have 1 sister and 5 brothers. My dad has a girl and 4 boys and my mom has 1 girl and 5 brothers. When my dad got out, we started to go over to his house all the time."

"I was brought up in Flora and Jackson, MS. When I was younger, I lived with my great grandma and I saw a lot. My uncle sold crack and was in and out of jail. My grandma didn't have alot of money to take care of us. My mom really wasn't around when I was younger. I moved with her when I was in the 3rd grade. I always wanted to run away because she treated her friends better than us. I learned how to channel my anger when I started to play football. My grades started to fall because I was always mad. During last summer I got to fighting with my mom and dad. She sent me to D. C. I really never had motherly love. That's why I think I love everybody I get close to like Mrs. Bolden."

"I have witnessed a gun being pulled on my older brother and I hear about my brothers getting into trouble. They would get into altercations with people and they would think nothing of it, but they learned the hard way. On March 14th of 2009 we were in the house asleep, and we heard something that sounded like fire crackers. Someone was shooting in our house! When the police came they said that they had found over 67 bullet shells in front our yard. My mom could not believe that no one was hurt, because there were so many bullet holes through the house. My brothers are getting into trouble until this day."

"My mom is in jail for 17 years. She got there because of being abused by my little brother's father. She ended up stabbing him during one of their fights. I have tried to put it in the back of my head, but it just plays over and over in my mind. People say I'm mean, but it's just that I have a lot to deal with and I sometimes don't won't to be bothered. I want so badly to be a J-Sette at Jackson State, and my mom does too! I don't want to mess up my future thinking about my mom and where she is. Her being in prison isn't going to stop me from going to college and dancing. You wanted to know why I'm mean sometimes, kind of empty-headed at times, mad, crying and tense. Well now you know. No one knows my struggle, but I feel it every day."

"My life is what makes me ME. I have a life where everything is good. I have a mom, sisters and step-father that love me, and I love my family."

"Growing up I was very shy. Didn't talk much. Then I began to come out of my little shell and make friends. At a young age I began to see how easily a person could ruin their whole life. I've seen people drop out of school, lose jobs, have a child and do drugs. Seeing all the struggles others went through made me strive for excellence. I try to do my best in school, stay abstinent and at the same time keep others from destroying their lives. As a result I hope to be a psychologist. This is what makes Me ME."

"I have lost alot of family members: my sister, brother and my dad. My mom is in Iraq, and I live with my other sister. My brother was shot nine times, because he was selling drugs. That really worried me. When I get older I want to be a lawyer. Nobody will tell me that I'm not going to be a lawyer, because I'm positive."

"I was born in Houston, TX in November 1995. I have one sister, and she's the oldest. I have been living in Mississippi for 10 years and so far I don't like it...."

"What makes me me is my personality. I am different than other people. I am a talented young lady, and I love to act. I want to be an actress and a model. I love to take pictures. I love to listen to music. The type of music I listen to is pop and rap. My next stage in life is to go to acting summer camp and take pictures for a portfolio. I want to always be remembered in life just like Michael Jackson. My favorite singer is Rihanna. I idolize her. I also like Trey Songz. he is the most sexiest man I know. The most sexiest wrestler is John Morrison. I love to watch him fight."

"There are many things I can tell you about me. First off, I was born to beautiful people: my mother who is a teacher and my father who is deceased due to a car accident. I am in many extra curricular activities in and out of school. At school I play in the band and I play soccer. At home I play baseball and football for two community teams. I guess that makes me an all round guy. I am also very good at academics. I am in APAC, and I am doing well in all my classes. Other than that everything is normal for me. I have a great school, family and personal life---and I couldn't ask for anything better."

"I attend Peeples Middle School in the eighth grade. This school is one of the best. My goal is to become a pro football player. I've wanted to play football ever since I was little."

"I am different from others I know. I am unique and talented. I have a different attitude than others. I guess I just have a different look at the world. I know I live in the state that is the poorest, fattest and crime-ridden. You have to see my world the way I see it. Just because it seems like it's an awful place doesn't mean it is. When I graduate I want to attend UCLA in the medical field. When I finish, I plan to come back down here to help my hometown. I will help bring my city up and take care of it. To me everyone can help make my town even more beautiful. You can't judge a book by its cover."

"I like to play football. I also like to play basketball. I am going to Wingfield High School."

"In my mind I am one of the most famous people on earth, according to my dreams. I am very normal in my sight which some people don't see. I am very careless about violence, rumors and crimes as long as I'm not committing them. I will be a director, producer, actor and filmmaker. Most of all I will be one of the most creative minds on earth. I can do it all."

"What makes me me is my smarts and my being a nice person. I believe my being the way I am can get me everywhere. My smarts can come in handy one day."

"When I was growing up I was dealing with my anger management problem, and I had a bad temper sometimes. I don't like when people try to yell at me. That made me mad. When I grow up I will try to lose my temper and management problem. I will go to college for 2 to 4 years to get my license to be a police officer."

"In the future I plan on attending Southern Miss. I am going there to become an engineer. In my life I have had trials and tribulations, and God has helped me to overcome them."

"What makes me me is playing sports and video games. What makes me me is the fact that I am nice. What makes me m is that I like play sports."

"What makes me me is when I love to obey my parents. I love to read, write and play basketball. What makes me me when I have good grades on my report card. I am very athletic. what makes me me is when I am kind to everybody I see."

"I went to Oak Forest Elementary, and I went to John Hopkins in 5th grade. I plan on going to Jim Hill High School next year. My favorite sports are football and basketball. My favorite hobby is playing my games. My favorite rapper is Lila' Boosie."

"When I'm at home I play basketball half the day. I always wear Jordan’s or Nikes. I stay in South Jackson. I have two sisters and no brothers. My favorite color is blue. My favorite rapper is Lil' Boosie."

"I'm a teenage girl that thinks success is impossible, beauty is not within and attention will never be given. Therefore I wonder what is the need of being my best if it will never be noticed. My favorite subject is Math. I dream of being a Math Teacher. Will that ever happen? I wonder. I am a very gregarious person, but will I ever have true friends? Will I ever get the attention I always wanted from my family? I wonder about my future life every moment, because I'm scared that I might not make it."

"What makes me me is acting like I have good sense. The children at school call me Shawty Lo because I always get low. I got saved when I was 14 years old. I stay representing my hood everywhere I go. I have plenty of talent that I can show the world. When I grow up I am going to become a successful lawyer and cosmetologist. After I graduate from college I plan on going back to get my masters degree. In my family there are plenty of pastors, missionaries and evangelists. My family is the best thing that ever happened to me. I don't let anything or anybody get me down. I have a praying and loving family that stays together. One thing about me is that I’m not going to let anyone mess with my family. I am a little crazy, but I can have fun, too. I love to party all the time. I am a respectful young lady. I carry myself well. I don't like being messy or hanging with messy kids."

"I am an 8th grader at Peeples Middle School, and as I grew up in Jackson it wasn't the most exciting thing. My life as a child wasn't the best, but my mother always tried to make it the best. Growing up with a single parent is hard, but as I got older it began to get better. What makes me me is my love and respect for people, my intelligence and my individuality. I respect people because in return I would want respect back. When I grow up I would like to become the first black female President of the United States. Before becoming President, I am going to become a lawyer."

"I have always had an extraordinary life. There re so many wonderful goals I have for my future. Something that no one knows about is that I want to be an actress. It has always been my dream to be an actress, and I know my family will support me on my decision. My family will always support me in any career or goal I choose. I have always been a fortunate person when it comes to my family in the past and present. There has also been hard times in my family, like death. Even though I'm not perfect, I know that I will always have my family to fall back on.

"What makes me me is my personality. I love myself no matter how much someone else may hate me. I love myself even though my childhood was rough. I love me. I went through alot with my dad and step mom, but I still love them both. I moved in with my mom when I was 8 years old. I lost my Grandma at the age of 11 and my Granddad at the age of 4. I miss them both, but I have to remember they are in a better place. I am the 4th child out of 5. I want to be a doctor and handle babies, because I love them so much. I want to play basketball in college, and that is what makes me me!"

"When I was young I had a rough childhood. I was always picked on by my older siblings, and no one ever said anything about it. I was picked on because I was the smallest, but as the years passed I started to grow. One night we were moving, and my older cousin tripped me, so I ran up to him and started beating him. I developed an anger problem, but that was my past. Now I'm in Middle School, and I plan on joining the Army or become a veterinarian. I want to go to Texas Tech University."

INTRODUCING "Cyrus Webb Presents..."

2010-05-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

Since 1999, artist/author/columnist, radio and television show host Cyrus A. Webb has been hosting events that have kept people talking. You are now invited to join him for a special series of discussions geared towards sparking conversation and addressing hot button issues. "Cyrus Webb Presents..." will have something for everyone, but more importantly, it will allow the public to be involved. Using an interactive chat room and taking calls, the entire program will let you be heard.

Below is a listing of topics discussed and events centered around them:

* (MISSION ACCOMPLISHED) Thurs. July 16, 2009: "Hip Hop Under Obama: Change We Can Believe In?",Part One with Taj Longino of Hype Magazine

* (MISSION ACCOMPLISHED) Sun. July 26, 2009: "A Tribute To E. Lynn Harris"

* Mon. Aug. 10, 2009 - "Faith & Literature" / Bestselling authors Evie Rhodes, Kenneth Worth and Don Greco discuss the role that their faith plays in the books they write.

* Thurs. Aug. 20, 2009 - "RACIAL PRIDE: A Thin Line Between Love & Hate"

* Thurs. Aug. 27, 2009 -"HOW SPORTS LOVERS BALL WITH BOOKS" Featuring guest authors Kurtis Scaletta, Sherry Hill and more!

* Thurs. Sept. 3, 2009 - "Discussion of the book 'Unsigned Hype'" with special guest author Booker T. Mattison

* Sun. Sept. 6, 2009 --- "SEPARATE BUT EQUAL: African American Authors in Today's Bookstores, Part 1" with authors Gloria Mallette, Bernice McFadden and Margaret Johnson Hodge

* Sun. Sept. 13, 2009 --- "SEPARATE BUT EQUAL: African American Authors In Today's Bookstores, Part 2" featuring authors Carleen Brice, Evie Rhodes, Roy Glenn and Tony Lindsay

* Thurs. Sept. 17, 2009 - "Raising Good Kids and Saving The World" with special guest author Nesta Aharoni

* Tues. January 19, 2010 --- "America Under Obama: One Year Later" --- featuring guests Anzour Jallouqa (founder of Global Outreach and host of IGMG Radio), H. Michael Harvey (political commentator and author of Paper Puzzle), Sasha Abramsky (journalist and author of Inside Obama's Brain), Billy Hallowell (political commentator and host of RENEW TV), Matt Harrison (author of The American Evolution) and Ricky Spann (author of Man-Up).

* Sunday, February 21, 2010 --- "Black History and Me" Featuring guests Justina Wheelock (WHERE LOYALTIES LIE), Dr. Neal Hall (NIGGER FOR LIFE) and W. James Richardson (THE ECLIPSE BLUES).

* Tues. Feb. 23, 2010 --- "HIP HOP UNDER OBAMA: One Year Later" featuring guests Jameelah Wilkerson (Hype Magazine and Hype Radio), author Pretty Tony (Playa Step Your Game Up), author Jela (How To Deal With White People), recording artist Chamber, Konata J of Hip Hop Gives Back and author D. D. Turner (Chronicles of a Hip Hop Legend).

* Thurs. Feb. 25, 2010 --- "To Self Publish Or Not To Self Publish" with guests Gary Kaschak and Justina Wheelock

* Sun. March 21, 2010 --- "Cyrus Webb Presents The Herschel Dixon Story"

* Tues. April 27, 2010 --- Cyrus Webb Presents... "THE RHONDA TEAGUE STORY: Invisible No More"

* Thurs. April 29, 2010 --- Cyrus Webb Presents "The Patricia Singleton Story"

After one of Webb's thought-provoking discussions was featured by USA Today Newspaper, there has been national attention on each topic he discusses. Join the conversation...

Have a story you want to share? For more information contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. His official website is www.cyruswebb.com.

Students At Peeples Middle School (Jxn,MS) Share Their Truth In "What Makes Me ME"

2010-05-06T11:06:00.000-07:00

(Thurs. May 6, 2010) Since 1999 multi-media personality Cyrus Webb of Shadow Play Entertainment has been visiting schools throughout Mississippi sharing his message of hope with the students and the message that they can succeed at any cost.
On Tuesday, May 4th and Wed. May 5th, he along with recording artist Lo Watts of Playa Connected took the program called the Creative Arts Workshop into Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden's classes at Peeples Middle School. The objective? To show the students that they have more in common than most realize, but that doesn't have to hinder their success.

Over the two days, the students shared how their lives had been impacted by death, abuse, drugs, feelings of worthlessness and self esteem issues. During that same time, though, they also expressed hope for the future and their belief in their abilities to make a difference in the world.

On Day One of the workshop, Webb led the students in a writing exercise called "What Makes Me ME?" In their own words, they shared their experiences about events in their lives--both good and bad--that have shaped who they have become. They also discussed how they can begin working now to see changes in their community.

On Day Two the students participated in a revised version of musical chairs. Each class was assembled in the middle of the room. Webb asked them at the outset if there was one person in the class they thought they didn't have anything in common with. In each group, numerous hands shot up. Over the 5 periods that met on Wednesday, there were 65 students participating. Webb went on to tell them that he was going to ask a question, and if the question pertained to them, they should go and stand against the wall. Collectively, here were the results:

1) Have you had someone in your family or close to you die this year? 42 out of 65 responded yes.
2) Do you know someone in your family or among your friends that has been the victim of abuse? 9 of the 65 responded yes.
3) Does someone you know use or sell illegal drugs? 10 of the 65 responded yes.
4) Have you been picked on at school or know someone who has? 1 student responded yes.

Lo Watts also talked to some of the students about speaking out about what they are going through in life. "No matter what it is," he said, "you shouldn't hold it in."

Both Webb and Watts hope that their visits and similar ones at other schools will help open up a real conversation between students and the community. "I also want to show that all of us---whether we have children or not---have a responsibility to those molding our future," says Webb.

To find out more about what Cyrus Webb and his organization is doing to empower the youth, visit www.cyruswebb.com or www.shadowplayent.com.

A CONVERSATIONS EXCLUSIVE: Meet Kristine Mills-Noble, Creative Director for Kensington Books

2010-04-29T20:24:00.001-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Magazine

This is an interview you will find nowhere else...Her work has graced the covers of books by some of the most celebrated authors such as Brandon Massey, Evie Rhodes, Victor McGlothin, Janine A. Morris, Roz Bailey, Anita Bunkley, Gwynne Forster, Faye Snowden, Candice Dow and countless others. Meet Kristine Mills-Noble, a creative director for Kensington Books. You might not know her name, however, the contribution she has given to the literary community through her work is undeniable.

How did she begin on her journey? When did she discover her desire to create? Conversations explores this and more with the woman behind the designs.

Kristine, thank you for taking out the time to talk with us. I have to tell you that to have this opportunity to converse with the woman who has graced so many book covers with her work is an incredible honor. Do you remember what it felt like when you first saw your work on a finished product?
I remember it very well. It was about 20 years ago and a young lady was sitting across from me on the New York City subway reading a book, I looked up and it was one of my covers. So I walked over to her and asked her how was the book. We started a conversation about the author and why she chose that book. To my surprise I was amazed to hear that she almost always buy a book based on the cover. At that point I began to realize how important cover design was to the success of a book. Most people still judge a book by its cover.

Where did it all start for you? At what age did you know that you were creative and wanted to pursue that path?
I guess it really started for me when I graduated from college. I did not study art in undergraduate because it was something that I never thought about. I had no idea what a graphic artist did. You see I grow up in a traditional hard working family. My parents always encouraged us to be a doctor, lawyer or something that you could get a "Good Job" doing. Art was never introduced to us as a way to make money or have a career. So after receiving a degree in Bio-chemistry I took a job in a lab doing research. I thought that I was going to DIE. I had a friend who saw that I was unhappy and knew that I was a closet artist and told me about a job in the art department at a publishing house who would pay for me to go to art school, 20 years later I am still at it.

Were there others around you that shared similar interests? Did they encourage you and what advice did they give when those close to you saw that you were serious about your work?
Growing up, I did not have people around me that had similar interest. My encouragement has always come from my mom. She did not understand how I was going to make a living doing this, but she told me to go for it. I have also been blessed in coming across some incredible art directors early in my career who pushed me and made me think outside of the limitations of a book cover.

I'm sure you would agree that human beings are extremely visual creatures. As a visual artist myself, Kristine, I dare say that your work has been instrumental in elevating the book sales---and thus careers---of a great number of authors through your eye-catching designs. Can you tell us what type of planning goes into deciding what will work with a particular book?
Lots and lots of planning goes into a book cover. The first step is to work with the editor to get a sense of the story and voice of the author. I often times will read the manuscript to get some ideas. I will then decide if this should be a photographic package or illustrated one. This will be determined after I get input from the author, the editor, the publisher, the sales team, the marketing team, and the buyer. So you see its not as easy as designing a cover that looks good, I have to keep everyone’s input in mind. I have to sit down and come up with something that is dramatic, eye-catching and meets its targeting audience in 5 seconds. That is all the time i have to make an impact. when a consumer is in a bookstore they are scanning the shelves for something that catches their eye.

Readers are quick to remember the author's name and not so familiar with the illustrators and cover designers. Have you gotten any feedback from the authors as to what their readers are saying about the covers.
You are right, the average person do not know who I am or remember my name. My kudos come when I see an author’s career began to take off. I get many thank you notes from authors and agents saying that they were very happy with the covers. I also know that I am doing something right when I see other publishing houses picking up my designs.

One author I have had the pleasure to interview several times is award-winning horror writer Brandon Massey. His covers, which you have designed since his second book DARK CORNER, are quite darker than your work for author Anita Bunkley's novel SILENT WAGER. Does it help you to know a great deal about each storyline before beginning your plans for the design?
It’s crucial to a package’s success that I have a “feel” for the story. Brandon and Anita are very different types of writers, so I would never package them similarly.

When you look back at the body of work you have acquired, why do you think you have become one of the memorable cover designers that are linked to contemporary fiction?
Once again, I think having the opportunity to work with some incredible talents who have always forced me never to take the easy way out, but to think of each project separate and apart from the rest. I could look back over my work and see so many different looks and styles. There are covers that I am very close to because they were more difficult to package then others. Making me really dig deep for the solution to the problem. An art director told me very early in my career that cover designers are problem solvers. Always come up with the most creative way to solve the problems.

Kristine, before I interview someone I try to do as much research as I can about that individual so I can be more knowledgeable about their past and accomplishments. I have to say, though, that it was hard to find any other interviews that you have done. Have you purposely tried to stay in the background, away from the limelight?
I enjoy working behind the scenes. My joy is in conceiving and creating a look for authors. As you mentioned earlier most people don’t remember the book designer. However in the book design world i have won many awards and have been interviewed by many trade people.

More than ever, young people are looking to graphic design as the vehicle they want to use as a career. What advice do you have for those who might be reading this and they are looking for guidance?
I would encourage young African Americans to consider going into graphic arts in publishing. Our numbers are quite small and we shouldn’t limit ourselves. Although people say “Don’t judge a book by its cover” that isn’t always true. The cover of a book is a huge selling tool and a signal to readers of what to expect. I would love to see more of us in the creative departments of book publishing.

Has there been a time that you thought this was not going to be the career for you? What motivated you not to give up?
As with anything there are going to be difficult times. Mines usually come when i have non art people telling art people how to create. What makes me not give up is that although there are times when I don’t always agree with the politics or policies of a corporation I love what I do. I love creating, and book covers are the best way to do that. Each story is different, each voice is different allowing me to challenge myself every day. The authors always help me not give up. They allow me to take that journey with them as they follow their own dreams.

Again, thank you for your hard work and positive example, Kristine. Any last words you have for our readers?
This is my mantra: ALWAYS GO THROUGH LIFE LOVING WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT YOU ARE DOING.

Cyrus Webb Discusses "What Makes Me ME?" With Students At Peeples Middle School (Jackson, MS)

2010-04-29T14:07:00.001-07:00

(May 4-5, 2010) Since 1999 Cyrus Webb has been visiting public schools in his homestate of Mississippi sharing his love of the arts and discussing topics that matter to the students. On Monday, May 4th and May 5th, he will spend the entire day a Peeples Middle School in Jackson, MS talking with those in Mrs. Jacqueline Bolden's classes about the topic "What Makes Me ME?"

"It seems like an easy question to answer," says Webb, 34, "but your response has alot to do with what you are personally going through." Webb realizes that alot of the students are dealing with challenges that may affect the way they look at life and their own future. He will be talking with them about expressing those feelings, and they will all be writing about how they see themselves.

On Mon. May 17, 2010 Webb will return to the school for them to share from their work with their classmates. Joining him during this year's project will be recording artist Lo Watts of Playa Connected.

For more information about similar projects hosted by Webb, visit www.cyruswebb.com. He can be reached at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Jon Boy, star of VH1's WHITE RAPPER SHOW endorses HIPHOP AND BOOKS

2010-04-29T06:26:00.000-07:00

The Hiphop and Books Committee is pleased to announce that Virginia rapper Jon Boy---known worldwide from the VH1 reality show THE WHITE RAPPER SHOW---has formally endorsed the Hiphop & Books Initiative. Look for him to encourage reading and the importance of staying in school.
Below you will find an interview with Jon Boy conducted by H&B Founder Cyrus A. Webb. They discuss Jon's beginnings, how he came to be a part of a reality show and how he remains true to himself.
Thanks Jon Boy for taking out the time to talk with us about yourself and your career. Many people know you from The White Rapper Show on VH1, but I want to go back to your life before then. When did you know you were interested in music, and more specifically rap?
I’ve been into music my whole life; I really got into rap when I was 6 yrs old. I remember out of no where mysteriously finding a mix tape with Dougie Fresh’s The Show, I listened to that song over and over again, there were other rap artists featured on the mix tape, but “The Show” was definitely my favorite. I always had a fascination with music, there is a photo of me at the age of two holding a guitar, my mother said I would play with that guitar for hours and hours everyday until it finally fell apart. Looking back, I always had musical instruments at home whether it was a karaoke machine, a saxophone I played in middle school or playing my keyboards at the age of 9. Any extracurricular activities such as sports, I always had an element of music around with any and everything I did.

As I got older, I started listening to a RUN DMC cassette and The House of Pain and other rap artists. Professionally, I started practicing and working with various studios in the Hampton Roads, VA area in my late teens, around 17 or 18. My interest in rap was that it was a voice for the common person, it allows you to express yourself and not be confined to the rules of society, and that’s why I have so much respect for the genre.

Did it as a surprise to your family and friends that rap was something you were drawn to?
No, I don’t think so, my family and friends always knew I would choose something unique, they saw I was working hard and going to various studios and working towards my goals by making myself better. They support me in anything that I do. I was brought up to believe in myself and work hard to attain what I wanted in life; my choice was to become a successful rap artist.

If you had to describe your style, what would you say?
Versatile, none of my songs sound alike. I’m always trying something new, and people are always surprised about what I’ll come up with next. I love the challenge as an artist to continue to bring something new and fresh to my fans.

Since Vanilla Ice there haven't been a great deal of high-profile white rappers coming into their own. What told you that you could be one of the few?
I don’t look at it in terms of being one of the few; I look at everyone in the industry no matter their race as my fellow peers and competition. I’m honestly not looking to be the next White HYPE or that next White Rapper. I’m looking to be a great musician that is apart of a genre that has been very gracious to me and in return, I want to give my all and make publicity for all the “right reasons” by giving back to the Hip-Hop community and culture.

Has it been your experienced that the hiphop community as a whole has been acceptable of you and your talent?
Absolutely, I think the hip-hop community has been very accepting of me. Many industry professionals have given me pointers, and have helped me along the way. I’ve always been truthful and honest about who I am as an artist and most importantly as a person. Those I’ve worked with know that I’m genuine and have been working on my craft for several years.

For example, when I first started recording with Ernest Smith who ran MITROD Studios, in Norfolk, VA he mentored me and gave me direction and pointers on becoming a great musician, writer and producer. The more people give, the more I would listen; I attribute the advice of Ernest Smith and many others over the years for me being a great artist. The hip hop audience is very intelligent and takes pride in their music; they know when you’re not being real. I’m a rap artist that isn’t trying to be anyone but himself and the hip-hop community they appreciate and respect that.

Okay, let's get into The White Rapper Show. How did you initially learn of the project and did you have any hesitation of joining a reality show cast?
Well, I was doing various shows within the college circuit, a young woman who was coordinating shows for me heard about the auditions on Craig’s list. Yes, big ups to craigslist, so she contacted the guy who did my promotions, he then contacted me at work on my cell phone. At this point everything I tried, everyone had been telling me to change the topic matter, or edit my lyrics and sometimes wanted me to dance.

Initially, I didn’t want to audition, I felt, here we go again…!!! I wasn’t going to be able to be my authentic self as an artist. When I was told about the 100 (g’s) on the line, and that I only had to submit a 16 bar tape of me rapping accepela and an interview, so I saw this as an opportunity to give it my best shot and was true to myself as an artist, with no holds barred. I felt they were either really going to like it or hate it, either way; I was going to be myself.

So 4 days later, they called and said they loved the tape and the interview. They had regional try-outs in 4 major cities one was in NY, so I was invited to audition and went to New York. I did several free-styles and just about everything I could to be noticed; I basically acted a fool. Then they choose me to be in the top 25 and the rest was on Vh1 which reached a world-wide audience.

Probably one of the most controversial moments was with Persia and the use of what many simply call the "N" word. I'm curious as to how you saw that situation. The word is used allot in the culture. Why not be able to use it?
People are always going to have different opinions on the usage of the N word. With this country being built on freedom of speech, you will have people that are going to say what they say, and there is no way you can truly stop the usage of the word. I don’t like the word; I personally choose to not use the word.

After you left the show, what would say was the changing point for you to guide you into where you are now?
The moment I came home from New York after the show and all the local rappers that I worked with no longer wanted to work with me. They were jealous, starting rumors, my intentions were to work with them and teach them what I learned when I returned, so together we could be the best team, but it never happened. After my associates turned their backs on me that gave me the drive and determination that I never had before. I focused on myself and perfecting my talent and skills. I felt like the opportunity being cast on The White Rapper Show showed me the golden rule of music, which is to not count on the next man for anything, that it’s all on me.

As you know, I'm working on the Hiphop & Books project, an initiative to encourage lovers of hiphop and R&B music to remember the importance of reading an staying in school. We are pleased now to have you and your management involved in it with us. Why do you think programs like this are so important?
Programs like Hip Hop & Books is important, because many kids fantasize about being an entertainer or athlete. If you want to be a singer or actor you need to know how to read or write. You have to know how to read music or lyrics to be a singer or read scripts to be an actor. As a ball player its necessary to be able to read plays and memorize them, which are essential learning skills. Kids, when they get older start to find themselves, and with programs like Hip Hop & Books it gives them the access to books that will provide confidence and basic skills to take advantage of opportunities to become successful in various facets of their lives.

Reading and writing has been the greatest advancement in the history of mankind and to be apart of this history you must be literate. Hip Hop & Books is doing a great deed; I’m proud to be apart of it and will give everything I have to make sure that reading is number one in the lives of all children.

Since we are on the subject, what is the book that has impacted you the most in your life.
The Bible, because the word of god is the most important thing to me.

Jon Boy, who would you say has kept you encouraged along the way, telling you not to give up even when the situation looked bleak?
I’m a highly motivated person, the few times that have really set me back, the encouragement came from my mother, her wisdom and strength have gotten me through some of the roughest storms.

Other than working with Hiphop & Books, I know you are working on other projects. If our readers want to keep up with you, where can they find you online?
My online presence is on my MySpace page. My management is currently working on my Official Jon Boy Website that will have a calendar of events and a blog to correspond with me. Go to: www.myspace.com/jonboyceo stay posted on the MySpace page it’ll keep you posted of all upcoming show dates, appearances and information of the new site launch.

Thanks again for the interview. Do you have any last words for your fans?
To my fans I appreciate your support and all the kind words over the course of my career. Always stay focused on your goals and strive to be the best in all you do. Embrace who you are as a person and never let anyone take your swagger or sense of self away from you. Support a cause that will in turn help to make you a better person. Keep up with the Hip Hop & Books Tour, it is a cause that means a lot to me. Pass the word on to others, because together we can make a difference in the lives of those who are in dire need of books. Literacy is the key to everyone’s success in life. To keep up with the cause, or help please go to http://hiphoploversread.webs.com and http://www.myspace.com/hiphopandbooks.

(April 26-30, 2010) This Week On Conversations LIVE! Radio

2010-04-25T21:22:00.000-07:00

(April 26-30, 2010) Tens of thousands of individuals have tuned in to Conversations LIVE! Radio, making it one of the most successful programs produced on Blogtalkradio--- and this week's conversations show exactly why the show is so popular. Bringing listeners the best in current events, arts and entertainment from around the world, host and executive producer Cyrus Webb talks to movers and shakers in various fields as well as introduces new voices who need to be heard.

To listen to any of the shows live, simply visit www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive. Missed the live shows? Catch up for free at www.conversationsliveradio.com.

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2010 @ 1p.m. EST(12p.m. CST/10a.m.PT) --- Authors Norm Carroll and Toriano Porter
Cyrus Webb welcomes author Norm Carroll to Conversations LIVE! Radio to discuss his career as a writer and his new book MIRACLES, MESSAGES and METAPHORS. At 30 min. past the hour, author Toriano Porter returns to Conversations to update Webb on his career.

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2010 @ 8p.m. EST (7p.m. CST/5p.m. PT) --- Author Marissa Wilson and Talk Show Host Jordan Mercedes
Cyrus Webb welcomes author Marissa Wilson to Conversations LIVE! Radio to discuss her debut novel NEEDLE IN A HAYSTACK and what she hopes readers get from the book. At 30 min. past the hour, Jordan Mercedes return to talk about her upcoming Vision Board project and how she is helping others to help themselves.

TUESDAY, APRIL 27, 2010 @ 1p.m. EST (12p.m. CST/10a.m. PT) --- Cyrus Webb Presents "The Rhonda Teague Story: Invisible No More"
Host Cyrus Webb welcomes Rhonda Teague to Conversations LIVE! Radio to tell her story of living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), how it impacts not just her but everyone around her as well---and what you need to know about the neurological condition. On June 10, 2004 Teague was bitten by a teen girl at the residential facility she worked at--- thus beginning the years of pain and discomfort. Never heard of the condition? She and over 200,000 and upwards of a million in the USA are left silent many times by lack of knowledge of this syndrome in the medical profession as well as the general public. Through this special presentation, Conversations LIVE! Radio will give her a voice and a unique opportunity to share her story with others. Join the conversation online through the live chat, the switchboard (347.426.3645) and email your questions to Webb at cawebb4@juno.com. This is one discussion you don't want to miss!

TUESDAY, APRIL 27, 2010 @ 8p.m. EST (7p.m. CST/5p.m. PT) --- Authors Deatri King-Bey and Shawnise Hadley
Cyrus Webb welcomes back author Deatri King-Bey to talk about her writing career and what's next for her in 2010. At 30 min. past the hour, Webb welcomes author Shawnise Hadley to the program in her first live primetime interview to discuss her book.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2010 @ 1p.m. EST (12p.m. CST/10a.m. PT) --- Author Martin Levin
Cyrus Webb welcomes back author Martin Levin to Conversations LIVE! Radio to discuss the events that led to the writing of his book WE WERE RELENTLESS.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2010 @ 8p.m. EST (7p.m. CST/5p.m. PT) --- Author Kip Kreiling
In a special one-hour edition of Conversations LIVE! Radio, host Cyrus Webb welcomes author Kip Kreiling to discuss his new book THE IMPOSTER? and his battle with addiction. Webb and Kreiling will also discuss what others can do to break the cycle of addiction and answer your questions!

THURSDAY, APRIL 29, 2010 @ 1p.m. EST (12p.m. CST/10a.m. PT) --Cyrus Webb Presents "The Patricia Singleton Story: From Victim To Survivor"
With the recent admissions of rape and incest among celebrities like Monique and others, attention is once again being brought on this important topic. Host Cyrus Webb welcomes Patricia Singleton to Conversations LIVE! Radio to share her own story of surviving such abuse and how she is using her experience to help others and continue to heal in the process. The phone lines and chat room will be open for this timely conversation.

THURSDAY, APRIL 29, 2010 @ 8p.m. EST (7p.m. CST/5p.m. PT) --- Author/Poet James Cherry
Cyrus Webb welcomes author James Cherry to Conversations LIVE! Radio to discuss his career as a writer, the messages he hopes to pass on to readers and what's next for him in 2010.

FRIDAY, APRIL 30, 2010 @ 1p.m. EST (12p.m. CST/10a.m. PT) --- Author Nikki Turner and "Fashion Forward with Gail Ambeau"
At the top of the hour Conversations LIVE! welcomes bestselling author Nikki Turner to discuss her latest book. At 30 min. past the hour, Gail Ambeau hosts "Fashion Forward" with special guest supermodel Miguel Pardomo.

For information on underwriting a program, advertising or being a guest, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@Juno.com or 601.896.5616.

ENRICO DELVES: Proving Music Has No Boundaries

2010-04-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Though London is his home, the talent of recording artist Enrico Delves is definitely crossing geographical borders and even those created by various genres. There seems to be no limit to his abilities, and no matter how humble he is about the international buzz he has created, Enrico is on the verge of making a permanent mark for himself in music.

Conversations Magazine first became aware of him through his rendition of Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" on Youtube. In that performance he showed off his range and gift for making any song his own. Now Enrico is preparing for the release of his own EP, and is using his popularity online to ensure that everyone knows about it.

In this interview, he talks about his beginnings, what separates him from other talent in music and how social networking and other online avenues are aiding in his dreams coming through.

This is our conversation.

Enrico, thank you for talking with Conversations Magazine. Before we get into what you are working on now, I want to talk about how you got here. When did you realize that music was something you were interested in?

I have been singing since I was 10, but only realised that music was something I wanted to get deeper into when I hit reached aged 14 or 15. I did my first performance and although I had horrific nerves, the adrenalin I got from doing something I loved has kept me engaged.

When you look back on the time you have been singing and producing music, does it surprise you the effect your voice has on others?

It really is a shocking thing to know that people enjoy listening to me. I love music so much, and I am pleased to know that people like what I do.

I found out about you through Twitter when you were promoting your performance of Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance". How have social networking tools help you in getting more exposure?

I think besides from performing, all social networking sites drastically boosts anybody's exposure. Online promotion is really effective because you can target any market worldwide without leaving your house (laughs). I hate technology but realized I have to use it wisely to create a fan base. I would say that twitter is an amazing site to talk to people and get a buzz circulating your name so quickly if you use it properly.

Success is measured by people in different ways. What is success for you?

I consider success as a goal that is reached. I believe if we set targets and achieve them can be the most rewarding success. But money does sometimes help. (laughs)

It's not easy to get noticed sometimes in the entertainment business. What are you doing to set yourself apart?

My songwriting and voice sets me apart from a lot of artists. I believe my bold song concepts and vocal range creates something dynamic and reflects old school soul, with a contemporary twist that makes it relevant for the present time in music.

Motivation is also important. How do you stay encouraged when it seems as though your goals are not met as quickly as you would like?

Firstly, I pray for courage and wisdom. I tend to watch documentaries about the rise of musicians for inspiration and reassurance, hard work does eventually get you to where you want to be---as cheesy as that sounds. (laughs)

Thanks again for the time, Enrico. If our readers want to find out more information about you, where would you suggest they go online?

I can be reached at www.youtube.com/eme10d1c, www.twitter.com/enricodelves, on Myspace and Facebook.

Monique's Success Inspires Up-And-Coming Designer To Dream Big

2010-04-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for www.conversationsmag.com

It's not just those in the worlds of comedy, tv and movies that have found an inspiration in Academy Award-winning actress/comedian Monique. She has also encouraged an up-and-coming designer in Jackson, MS.

Wife, mother, grandmother, visual artist are just a few of the other hats that fashion designer Gail Rayford-Ambeau wears. In spite of the day to day challenges everyone faces, she has shown no signs of backing down or giving up. Instead she has joined aothers who are taking the bull by its horns and moving forward to their destiny. Just like one of her biggest sources of inspiration: Monique.

"When I look at what Monique has gone through and what she has achieved in spite of challenges," says Gail, "I can't help but think that if she could do it, then so can I."

Gail has been involved in art and fashion ever since she was five- years- old. As an eight-year-old student at Hawkins Elementary School in Toledo, Ohio a young Gail Rayford made her first complete outfit for her class show and tell. Dressed in a pair of purple pants made of that 1970’s 100 percent polyester, a matching denim vest and a hat that mixed both of the fabrics, Gail excitingly awaited her turn to show what she had crafted.

Almost 40 years later, that excitement contins. Today Gail is a fashion designer, stylist, radio show host, seamstress, visual artist and founder of Ambeau’s Art and Fashion. When many are saying that "Thin is in", like Monique, Gail is hoping to show that true beauty begins on the inside and can be visible in what one does---instead of what you look like on the outside.

In 2008 she hosted a fashion show in Jackson, MS with national recording artist and author Jacki-O as the special guest. In 2009 one of her garments was the key piece for national Gospel recording artist and Gospel Music Channel’s 2008 Gospel Dreams winner Melinda Watts debut video--- So Good. She also participated in the Florida Designers’ Expo which lead to styling model Tiffany Richardson from America’s Next Top Model (cycle 4) for a photo shoot with celebrity photographer Derek Blanks.

Her newest endeavors include motivational speaking and co-executive producer and host of Fashion Forward with Gail Ambeau on Conversations LIVE! Radio. She discusses fashion tips, trends to look out for and interviews celebrity guests. So far she has talked with actor and recording artist Tray Chaney (HBO's The Wire), singing sensations Willie Taylor (Day 26), Bertell and Abraham McDonald along with fashion designers Rami Kashou, Chris March and Laura Bennett from Project Runway fame.

At 45 years young, Gail may be a latecomer to the fashion industry, but she definitely believes that all things happen in God’s timing. “I can honestly say that it has not been easy but I have no regrets about the decisions that have been made thus far”. Her advice to those who aspire to follow their dream is to “first obey the voice of God, be willing to stick with it through the hard times to make it to the other side and be willing to give up some things.”

When she talks about who she would like in one of her designs, Monique's name always comes up. "I would love to show my appreciation for what she stands for to me," says Gail. "Monique represents for the everyday woman, especially the big girls like myself." For now she will continue to take each day as it comes, confident that dreams come true for those who believe.

Cyrus Webb is the Editor-In-Chief of Conversations Magazine and freelance writer. He can be reached at cawebb4@juno.com or at www.cyruswebb.com. Additional information about Gail can be found at www.tinyurl.com/gailambeau or at askambeau@aol.com.