Out the Box

Michele Hermansen always had strict control over her life. As vice president of national sales, she traveled the world talking with executives from Fortune 500 companies; but in April 2005, she embarked on a journey to Africa that changed her life forever. While there, she became part of a village inTanzania where she helped the villagers improve their daily lives. Unexpected Journeys is Hermansen’s personal account of how one can discover fulfillment in the most unexpected places. Copyright © 2010 Michele Hermansen and BRIO Books.

Jonathan Weyer is a campus minister at The Ohio State University and an ordained minister in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. He is the founder of The Thomas Society, a student led ministry dedicated to answering questions from skeptics, doubters, agnostics, and atheists. Jonathan has been added to the Secular Student Alliance speaker’s bureau, the only Christian minister to have that distinction. During the transition from church ministry to campus ministry, he decided to write his novel, The Faithful, which combined his experience with doubters and his love for scary stories. Jonathan lives in Columbus, Ohio with his wife Wendy, three kids, and a crazy cat. Copyright © 2010 Jonathan Weyer and BRIO Books.

"Smooth Jazz Keyboardist Alan Blake and jazz vocalist Lita Blake have toured and recorded with artists such as the late Grover Washington Jr., the late George Howard, Jean Carne, Kevin Eubanks, and Rachelle Ferrell. Lita studied under Dr. Donald Byrd at Howard University and performed with jazz pianist Billy Taylor and bassist Ron Carter during a Settlement Music School event in Philadelphia. They have performed at the Saratoga Springs Jazz Festival, Baltimore Harbor Jazz series, and several national venues with the late George Howard, Fairmount Park Philadelphia with jazz saxophonist the late Grover Washington Jr., the Hampton University Jazz Festival, Trinity College Workshop, Penns Landing jazz series, as well as the famous Blue Note jazz club in New York with jazz violinist John Blake, University of Pennsylvania Medical School Jazz events, "Music@Noon" Concert series (Centennial Park-Atlanta), “Chastain at the Cascades” Jazz concert series, Third World Festival at Centennial Park (2003), Swarthmore College Student Union Jazz concert series, “Jazz by the Lake” concert series in Stone Mountain, GA., St. Kitts Prime Ministers’ New Years Ball (2006). They opened for Jeffrey Osborne in June, 2005 at the benchmark 100 Black Men event “Le Cabaret” in Atlanta, Georgia, and opened for Frankie Beverly and Maze at "Le Cabaret" 2006. They performed recently for a private reception for Bill Cosby and Dr. Alvin Poussaint in Lake Spivey, GA. Alan and Lita also opened for Jeffrey Osborne for Morehouse School of Medicine's Inaugural Gala for its' 5th president Dr. John Maupin at the Atlanta Aquarium on March 23, 2007, and opened for Chaka Khan at the 100 Black Men's benchmark "Le Cabaret" in Atlanta in May 2007. Alan is the brother of world renown violinist John Blake, Jr. http://www.alanandlitablake.com" Copyright © Alan and Lita Blake 2010

Pediatrician, Eric A. Yancy has been has been taking care of the children of Indianapolis for more then three decades... fulfilling his own childhood dream to become a physician. Along the way, he’s also been pursuing his passion for singing, recently completing his debut gospel album, Modern Spiritual. The Baton Rouge, Louisiana, native has been singing as long as he can remember. “I sang my first solo for a Christmas program when I was in second grade. I sang Silent Night. I actually sneaked into the youth choir at my church when I was 12, but they let me stay.” Known for his smooth baritone sounds, Dr. Yancy has been uplifting and inspiring audiences nationwide, sharing the word of GOD through song. His inspiration for the title song on his album came one morning, following a newscast about a tragic murder. “A young patient of mine had been shot to death the night before. I wondered what could be the difference between the old days and the new ones. Why so much strife? Then I wondered if it could be that we have placed God on the back burner, in favor of our own successes and indulgences”, From that, Modern Spiritual was born. Dr. Yancy’s musical journey is just beginning with the release of his first solo album. He hopes you’ll be inspired… to put GOD back as the head of your life. Copyright © 2009 – 2010 Eric A. Yancy. For more information please contact: Thursday Productions, Shawn Wiseman: 301-752-9633 swiseman@thursdayproductions.com

The second in Neal Lozano’s Will You Bless Me? series, Can God See Me in the Dark? is the heartwarming story of little Anna’s first experience staying overnight at her grandparents’ house, or as Anna says, “Goppy and Gammy”. Before going to bed, Anna asks Goppy, “Can God see me in the dark?” Her grandfather uses stories of Jesus to teach Anna that when you know somebody, you don’t need to use your eyes to see them. Children will enjoy listening to Goppy’s stories of Jesus and will learn to see Him “with the eyes of their hearts.” Copyright © 2010 Neal Lozano and BRIO Books.

A little about Contemporary Jazz Recording Artist, Deborah Flores: “Deborah Flores says that "spiritually", Gospel is the root of her music. She has been in the contemporary music group for The Rock Church and Horizon Christian Fellowship church in San Diego and has also been a soloist in their gospel choir. She currently sings in a contemporary Christian group at a local church in San Diego. “Everything I do in life leads me back to my music. God put it into my soul. If we all spent time doing what we love we would all be happier people, with the ability to give that love out to others. Good music has nothing to do with the style; good music is the kind of music that hits you in the heart, mind and soul!” “Singing is more than a talent, it’s more like a reason for being, a spiritual force and guiding passion of your life”, this demonstrates the way Deborah Flores delivers a song. From a beautiful emotional ballad to a passionate high energy R&B Funk melody she gives her all to the audience. “Step Aside,” the debut CD for veteran songstress of the performing stage Deborah Flores, has arrived! With a seamless flow of sounds from soulful R&B and contemporary jazz to neo-soul this album has it all! Deborah’s seasoned voice belts out effortlessly in the R&B songs “Movin On” and “Sneakin Around”. “Sneakin Around,” an original composition, filled with a funk filled playful vibe. Undoubtedly you will not be able to sit still during Deborah’s original song, “Move Your Body”, which evokes an urban funk sound that commands you to do just that!” Get in line and learn all about Deborah Flores’ CD “Step Aside” at www.deborahfloresmusic.com. Copyright © 2010 Deborah Flores.

Co-authors A.Thigpen and D.Austin discuss their book "Seedtime: Liberating the Oppressed." About the book - Seedtime, Liberating the Oppressed “This book is not about slandering those who meander the truth. The first step toward liberation is education. This book utilizes the Bible, life stories of Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen, historical facts, and current events to educate readers. Oppression is horrifying. This is why Christians must become passionate about justice.” “Financial prosperity messages perilously oppress people. When these Name it and Claim it messages started sweeping the nation, I gambled away my good credit. It took years before I climbed out my pitfall of deception. Now that I chase what matters, I understand. Hard-earned wages is how people with integrity purchase possessions. As a journalist, while writing for the Indiana Post-Tribune, life took on new meaning. Unfortunately, I’ve exposed ousted pastors, church disputes, and infidelity inside the world of religion. I prefer feature stories, but we report the news, and church news is no exception. Your outlook on money can make you forget what matters most. Behind the closed doors of prosperity churches, the only acceptable influence comes across the pulpit. No questions allowed—not even during Bible study. Suggestions are considered rebellion and gossip. These are the complicated components that make this secretive subject so difficult to discuss. Despite their outlook on money, the church continues to give to the community. Perhaps the pastors’ good works are a reflection of their kind hearts. On the other hand, many churches invest in marketing ploys to gain membership and make more money. Nonetheless, I refuse to ignore organized religion. Churches possess the ability to serve a significant role in communities throughout America. However, to do so, the focus must remain on spiritual principles, not money. Copyright © 2009 Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen

"Long Walk Up tells the remarkable fictional story of an orphan girl who becomes Africa's first woman president. Denise Turney is a professional writer who brings more than thirty-two years of book, newspaper, magazine, radio and business writing to a project. She is the author of the books Portia, Love Has Many Faces, Spiral, Rosetta’s Great Adventure, Long Walk Up and Love Pour Over Me. Denise Turney is an internationally celebrated author who is listed in various entertainment and business directories, including industry leaders such as Who’s Who, 100 Most Admired African American Women and Crosswalk. Denise Turney’s works have appeared in Parade, Essence, Ebony, The Pittsburgh Quarterly and Obsidian II." Copyright © 2010 Denise Turney.

"Life's daily struggles can often leave us perplexed and bewildered on how to cope with hard issues. In COMPLETELY WHOLE, Paulette Harper offers keys to help those who are searching for answers that can lead to a life of complete wholeness: Spirit, Soul and Body. COMPLETELY WHOLE focuses on how to overcome suffering caused by alcoholism, substance abuse, poverty, and other obstacles blocking the path to a life of wholeness. A sought after speaker, certified life coach, minister and author. As an inspirational and motivational speaker, Paulette’s desire is to motive women to reach their God given potential through conferences, workshops and seminars. Combining enthusiasm with an energetic speaking style, audiences describe Paulette’s presentation as inspiriting, enriching and encouraging. She is committed to speaking a message that is always uplifting and edifying." Copyright © 2010 Paulette Harper.

Daryl Erdman’s first book, Scar Tissue, offers expert insights and lessons on entrepreneurship. By illustrating his teachings with examples from his own business ventures as well as those of the students he has mentored, Daryl creates a lively book filled with practical advice. He uses the concept of “scar tissue” to explain the business mis-steps that entrepreneurs must either avoid or overcome to achieve success. Scar Tissue is instructive for those new to business and will resonate with those already experienced in business development and ownership.

Jonathan Maxwell will discuss his book Murderous Intellectuals. Searching for a sense of understanding and a hope for future prevention, Jonathan Maxwell explores the different officials of the Holocaust, giving an extensive background of each. He investigates mental defects, childhood occurrences, and family situations of these horrific leaders. Jonathan Maxwell is an Atlanta-based freelance writer and editor. He holds a Bachelor's degree in English with a minor in psychology from Berry College, in Rome, Ga., as well as a Paralegal Certificate from North Metro Technical College in Acworth, Ga. Aside from reading and writing, his interests include cooking, cinema, cycling, legal and ethical issues, and national politics. At present, he is finishing his second book, Piltdown Man and Other Hoaxes, a generally lighthearted examination of infamous scientific frauds through history.

As a Bassist, a short list of whom he has performed/toured/ recorded includes five years as the exclusive Bassist for Jazz Great Sonny Rollins, Pharoah Sanders, Hugh Masekela, Paquito D’Rivera, Hilton Ruiz, Mongo Santamaria, Rafael Cortijo Y El Gran Combo, Vanessa Rubin, Jorge Dalto, Bobby Enriquez, Bobby Rodriguez, Gil Evans, Angela Bofill, Michel Camilo, Papo DeLucca, T.S.Monk, George Coleman, Gary Bartz, Chaka Kahn, Billy Cobham, Wallace Roney, Hiram Bullock, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Harry Belafonte, Machito Y Su Orquesta, Dave Valentin, Michel Camillo, Sam Rivers, Clark Terry, Mary Wells, Wynton Marsalis, Melba Moore, Brenda Russell, and Cybill Shepherd. He also performed on Broadway as a bassist in the The Lion King and Dreamgirls. As a music producer, Mr. Blake has multitude of projects. His latest project “Quiet Strength” is a powerful and soulful jazz project that gives the listener the ability to experience all facets of Mr. Blake’s musical skills. Other projects include “Silent Power”, “Ten Fingers & Four Strings Solo Series” and the gospel project “Avianna” and “Symposium of Praise.” These are the vehicles Mr. Blake has chosen to expose his virtuoso abilities. All of the projects contain a mixture of strong traditional jazz, gospel, and classical compositions. There are currently four CD’s released under this series. Mr. Russel Blake, Concert Soloist, Producer, Bassist and Educator. http://www.russelblake.net. Copyright ©2010 Russel Blake.

“Promise Road: Walking through the Process that Manifests the Promise,” by contemporary author, Letetia Mullenix, chronicles the season in the author’s life that God used to manifest His promises for personal and marital restoration. While imparting biblical insight regarding the promises of God, Promise Road offers hope to all who stand in need of restoration. Through personal admissions and revelations, the author shares her inspiring testimony, devastating failures, and triumphant victories regarding several long and intimate trials in her marriage, while addressing key questions that deal with marriage, faith, forgiveness, emotional healing, and personal and spiritual growth. About the Author: “Christian author and evangelist, Letetia Mullenix lives in Virginia with her husband, Eric, and their three children, whom she home-schools. Letetia Mullenix is also the co-founder of Families with Faith Ministries and the creator and co-host of the Christian internet talk show ‘Real-Talk’ LIVE! With Families with Faith. As a community-minded entrepreneur, Letetia owns Creative For God Designs, a web-design and web-hosting business aimed toward meeting the needs of small businesses and non-profits. In 2009, she began www.FamiliesWithFaith.com, (formerly www.Familieswithfaith.org) a social network “ministry community” whose purpose is to “offer hope and support as we stand on faith for the promises of God regarding our families”. The author has a passion for youth, marriage, homeless, missionary, and recovery ministries. Her greatest passion however, is for the wholeness and healing of families. Families with Faith is a Christian outreach ministry dedicated to the strengthening, healing, and restoration of families and marriages: by seeking to support, educate and train individuals, community members, lay leaders, and other ministries and by assisting communities and churches...” Copyright © 2010 Letetia Mullenix.

"How often is one lucky enough to recognize the signs of a unique, soulful musician on the verge of a long and promising creative cycle? Ladies and gentlemen, meet Phillip “Doc” Martin; preferably known as “Doc Martin”, a rising saxophone stylist who’s heartfelt, humble melodies are wooing live audiences on stages across the country. And if Martin has his way, music fans all of world over will soon consider themselves just as fortunate. Doc Martin’s latest CD, Realization, features 14 new songs that just don’t passively fit the traditional smooth, instrumental or funky rhythm genres. His tunes flex, bounce and bend offering audiophiles a “new sax” diagnosis. Martin plays his horn with a warm and clear tone supplemented by a chronic range that takes you on a soulful and energetic journey with the likes of classical soul crooner like Donny Hathaway, Gerald Levert and James Brown. “I want my music to be heard by people near and far, but not only just heard but respected and loved,” Martin says. A growing host of fans would concur that he has played his way into their souls already. “I am trying to stay true to the music. I play from the heart with humility. I want to soothe souls with my playing,” Martin says. Martin’s music is food to the soul: a prescription for true, lasting and soulful success. Phillip Martin DDS President of Saxtime! Entertainment www.phillipmartin.net Copyright Phillip "Doc" Martin 2010.

"Author Russel Blake is a Professional Musician/Concert Soloist/Educator. Thus far he has been privileged to have Performed/Toured/Taught in 65 countries. As a professional Bassist he has had the good fortune to have performed with a wide variety of Artists and situations. From Sonny Rollins, Chaka Khan, Mary Mary, Cybil Shepherd, Tramaine Hawkins, Wynton Marsalis, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Paquito D' Rivera, Harry Belafonte, Brenda Russell, The Lion King & DreamGirls on Broadway in NYC, Micah Stampley, Mary Wells, Pharoah Sanders, and Melba Moore to name a few. As a Concert Soloist and Educator Mr. Blake was contracted to perform in 8 West African Nations as an Ambassador of Goodwill by the U.S. State Department as well as the State of California Department of Corrections to teach/perform his Music History & Cultural Program to 5000 inmates of Ironwood State Prison. Mr. Blake was also a Kellogg Foundation Artist In Residence Recipient to teach/perform said program to the Kalamazoo & Battle Creek Michigan school districts. He also has taught as a Professor of Electrical Bass Studies at five universities across the country. “Proverbs 31:The Virtuous Black Woman Volume 1” is Author Russel Blake’s debut book." Copyright Russel Blake 2010.