RE-RAMBLED…recipes for the soul by Author Angelia Vernon Menchan

I’ve read your novel “Mrs. Black?” and was excited about it. So excited I almost blew the ending on twitter...do you remember? And I still heavily apologize for that outburst. That’s just how good it was.

In “Mrs. Black?” you gave us an insight to what black love can be like other than the typical young black love. After reading “Mrs. Black?” I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed in reading from your soon to be released ‘recipes for the soul’, “Re-Rambled”…and surely I wasn’t.

For my readers: “Re-Rambled” is a collection of thoughts from the author’s mind. They are her views and her views only. They’re based on many different topics and issues. From things that saved her, to things that helped her overcome the issues.

“Re-Rambled” will be available in April 2010…but first, meet the author, Angelia Vernon Menchan, through my interview about her works and dedication to writing.

Onika Pascal: When I read your bio, it indicated that you consider writing to be, the elixir to your soul. Can you share with my readers of how long you have been writing?

Angelia Menchan: I have been journaling since I was probably seven or eight. Sometimes happenings in my life and other times stories about how things were or how I wished they were. I have been writing for publication since 2005

OP: From fiction to the recipes for the soul, which of the two do you find to be an easier write, and why?

AM: The soul recipes definitely…that is like talking and breathing, flows like lava~

OP: What or who inspires you to keep writing? I ask because you write from some place deep, some place filled with peace and a knowledge that you’re ready to lend/give to others.

AM: I am my own inspiration and my faith and living inspire me. I live a love filled blessed life to be sure. My peace was born of knowing only I am responsible for me and how I live.

OP: Though I have quite a few selections I’ve read and felt an attachment to, “But I Loooves Him” is one of your recipes in “Re-Rambled” that hits close to home. In this piece, you share your thoughts on love, young women in love, and how we can … “be real and protect our hearts”. A bout I’m overcoming myself. Can you share a bit of your see through soul and tell what love is to you?

AM: Love is the acceptance of people just as they are, flawed and all. It is the thing that make you rethink your position for the good of others and the thing that will make you put yourself all the way out there for others. It is also the way my man looks at me after being married over 31 years and knowing he considers me first after God and me him.

OP: Being that we’re on the topic of love, let me slip back to “Mrs. Black?” for a bit; in this novel, you had the hidden message of a timeless love. From your view, how do you know when you have met your soul-mate? Do you believe in soul-mates?

AM: Retrospectively I do, my man and I dated very young and broke up for several years. One night he showed up on my doorstep after no conversation for YEARS. We both discovered that our souls were seeking the other and there we were.

OP: In browsing your website, I see that you’ve authored several books. Can you share what the journey has been like for and to you?

AM: When my youngest started college I decided to write books. For whatever reasons, probably because I could I decided to own myself…I have yet to submit a book for publication, doesn’t mean I won’t but I haven’t.

OP: As a self publisher, mentor, mother, author, wife, friend…what advice can you share with those who may be too afraid or nervous to pursue a dream/s

AM: To work hard and never allow anyone to rain on your parade, and they will try, so carry what you know, your faith and a very large umbrella. Also learn to surround yourself with people who support your dreams and you theirs.

OP: For the benefit of my readers, please share where “Re-Rambled” and your other books can be purchased.

AM: My books are available through my online website www.angeliamenchan.com, all online bookstores and can be ordered through book stores nationwide.

Thanks Darling for allowing me to talk about my work and spending time in your very lovely space~

BE THE PEACE YOU SEEK~

angelia

Below are a few images of author Angelia Vernon Menchan's published books. Please visit her website for more titles and purchases

National Poetry Month Day 16 - Poet 16: The Werdsman (David Lews)

I haven't met this poet in person, but I've heard some great reviews about him.

Sought him out for my tribute to poetry. And here he is.

David Lewis aka 'The Werdsman'

The Werdsman is the stage name for poet David Lewis, who resides in the Elmont section of Long Island in New York City. The name The Werdsman means the "EXTRAORDINARY WORDS OF MAN".

Born and raised in Brooklyn , David, (better known as "werds") expressed himself through the art of poetry, dance and various paintings. Since the tender age of 8, he has been expressing his creativity through poetry and became seriously involved in the poetry circuit for the past 11 years. David's involvement in the spoken word circuit has led to numerous accolades, including the publication of his first book and CD appropriately titled "Poetry Don't Pay the Bills"; this poetry chronicle signifies the struggles, triumphs and aspirations of his life. With every passing day, he proves to the world why the "E" in Werdsman means "Extraordinary is far from ordinary... "

David, aka The Werdsman, can be found on the following media outlets:

Facebook fan page: "the werdsman"

Myspace page www.myspace.com/thewerdsman

National Poetry Month Day 15 - Poet 15: Definition (Steven Rice)

His words are powerful, boisterous and meaningful. Its imperative that you listen. I met 'Definition' at his open mic set at Folukie's Restaurant in Brooklyn. I had met the owner of Folukie's through a mutual friend, and he told me about his open mic nights. 'Definition' was an engaging host.

Not only did I meet him at his open mic segment, he became one of my coolest supporters. He hosted one of my book readings and to date, we're in touch.

So if you're ever in the Brooklyn area, searching for a dope diction open mic set, 'Definition' is your host and Folukie's is the place to be.

Here's what Dope Diction's has to offer:

Dope Diction Open Mike is a Brooklyn local, down-to-earth event that includes poetry, singing, emceeing, monologue performances, etc. It has been going down at Folukie's Restaurant (one of Brooklyn's best-kept secrets) in the Bedford-Stuyvesant Section (my birthplace) of Brooklyn. It began with in February of 2008 with Jamica as the first feature. Since then Brk'n Sylance, Charlotte Michelle, Christine-Jean Blain, D-Black, (Rebel) Eagle, El Grito de Poetas, Homeboy Sandman, Hybrid, Itsrealite, K. Desiree, Knickie D., Narubi Selah, Omni Blaize, Poetic Assassin, Rain Maker, Redefining Freedom, Sabrina Gilbert, SoSoon, Tongo and Wordsmith Jones have hit the stage! Definition, the host, simply tries to bring beautiful talent, especially talent that should be heard more, to the public.

Location: Folukie's
Address: 1168 Bedford Ave betw Madison and Putnam Ave's
City: Brooklyn
Time: Every Third Tuesday at 9pm
Directions: A train to Nostrand Ave (Fastest), C train to Franklin Ave (Closest) or G train to Bedford/Nostrand (Alternative), besides that the B15, B25, B26, B38,B43, B44, B48, B49 and B52 buses run in the neighbourhood.

If anyone you know with talent, or a gift, that can be displayed on stage, have him/her contact Definition and he just may have a feature set in store for that person in the future.

Contact: Definition @ Lodjical@aol.com
or check out the website: www.reverbnation.com/definitionofpoetry

National Poetry Month Day 14 - Poet 14: Bassey Ikpi

(Please click photo to view eventbrite info)

I live in New York, but have already purchased my ticket to attend Basseyworld Live in Washington, DC at Liv Lounge (2001 11th St, NW, Washington, DC 20001)... if you love poetry, you travel far and wide. And would do so for the talent that makes you crave writing, reading, reciting and listening to poetry.

This woman/mother/writer/poet/mother/woman/courage/artist/inspiration/ is synonymous to what poetry is to me. She's real, she's fearless, effortless, breathless, breathtaking, inspiring.

I look forward to her show on May 7th and expect nothing but the best of poetry.

National Poetry Month Day 13 - Poet 13: Abraham Benjamin (aka Honest Abe)

Where one may not be a fan of poetry, Abraham Benjamin, aka Honest Abe, makes it all the more easy on the ear to be understood. His words are breathtaking and recited in a no-nonsense kind of manner. This brother recites at venues throughout NYC ... and I'm honored to spotlight him and his talent, this National Poetry Month:

Abraham Benjamin, (a.k.a. Honest Abe) of Crown Heights Brooklyn, NY, is a writer/poet, soon to be the author of his first book of poetry, "Unlocked thoughts of a prophet's temple.”(Spring/Summer 2010) Who is also, currently working on his 1st CD, to be released at a date TBA. And has had his work published in college arts magazines (ex Antheon, Arts/Creative writing magazine at Kingsborough CC, May '09)

He describes himself as a mind-reacher, whose main goal, “is not to write to incite crimes, but to incite minds with the truth in a world & society full of lies and deception.”

His 1st form of expression wasn't poetry, but music.

Poetry took center stage at the end of H.S., (2007) after which he’s appeared in such places as Bowery Poetry Club, the legendary NuYorican Poets Cafe, New World Stages in Timeout NY Lounge, 449 LA in Harlem, NY, The Spot and in Newark, NJ. He’s also been a feature artist at the Time Square Arts center, Lyrical Revolt at La Pregunta Cafe. Recently featured at NuYorican as well in February 2010 and has won back to back slams in the Bowery. Still, he frequents many stages around and outside the tri-state area, weekly and some monthly.

National Poetry Month Day 12 - Poet 12: El Grito De Poetas

If I had the ability to type/speak Spanish...this entire blog would have been typed in good ol' Espanol. That's how moved I was tonight. I wished I had a Hispanic tongue lol!

Everyone was just so amazing at the 5th Anniversary of El Grito De Poetas. My 1st spotlight of the month...John Chance Acevedo gave the heads up for this event. And I'd be lying if I told you I didn't enjoy myself. From the time I got onto the block that houses the NuYorican Poets Cafe, I saw the line past the entrance and I cringed. I don't do lines lol. But then I saw Mr. B and I stepped further down and I saw Chance ,then I saw Reina ... standing online wasn't so bad after all.

As the line crawled to the entrance, I spotted my girl ItsREAlight. Her warm hugs of welcome always greet me the same...with a full smile. She was a feature tonight. I prepared my hoots and hollers for my "peeps".

The opening band Machete Ron was FIRE...their beats, rhythm and soul just lit up the house and opened up minds and pores for the words to follow.

La Bruja was the host for the evening, and you couldn't tell that you weren't from a Hispanic speaking country...we all fit right in. She was witty, poetic and bold.

Many features ... The Marksman, Simply Rob, a young lady (maybe age 13)...poured on to the stage and set the tone for the night.

Chance, I had a marvelous night. MARVELOUS. Congratulations to El Grito De Poetas...wishing you many more years to come.

National Poetry Month Day 11 - Poet 11: NuYorican Poets Cafe

Its probably the most renowned venue for "spitting" on a mic. Its probably the heavy weight of all arenas. And it could possibly well be the "heaven on earth" for pen pushers and verse slayers. The NuYorican Poets Cafe: to me, the Apollo Theater for spoken word..new comers, familiar faces and veterans alike.

This den of dueling poets, is a realm where once you enter, there is no turning back. I've heard about it, blocked it out, then braved it and felt like I had conquered the world. For many poets, its the one place you go to to get it all off your chest. And by ALL, I mean your penned proses, poems, beats and sounds. And its in NuYorican, you'd find that poetry means all the world of passion. You're NEVER alone.

Though there isn't a live sand man to yank you off the stage, you would be rated based on talent. I remember my first time going to the NuYorican, I was bummed after an evening class. Had to release some frustration and poetry was the one thing to settle my nerves. My best friend went along with me. She challenged me, and I accepted. I blogged about this years ago under another blog page and If you can read it now, you'd read my excitement. I did pretty well for a virgin. My cherry was popped.

While I don't have the skills like the masters that pass through and stand on NuYorican's stage, I felt right at home and ran with the bulls.

So, I give the 11th spotlight to the NuYorican Poets Cafe...that magical place on East 3rd Street in Manhattan.

If EVER you're in New York City and you want a night of feeling cool and in with the "in crowd" NuYorican is where its at...believe me...its gets no better than here.

National Poetry Month Day 10 - Poet 10: Nia Logan (aka Purpose)

Innocent, cute, ambitious, tomorrow's youth. She's "purposed". My 10th spotlight goes to Nia Logan. Meet this young, up and coming, talented poet. She speaks to you on who she is and where she's going

Purpose (Nia Logan)

I can't remember a time when I haven’t written; just the other day I found a poem from when I was nine. I write with a purpose, hence the name. A lot of what I write is centered around the "black struggle." I write to inform and expose, and also to establish my own understanding of topics, issues, and individual situations of which I haven’t experience; most of my pieces aren't personal testimonies or experiences; they are an interpretation of my observation and prior knowledge. My satisfaction comes more from the reader/listener's ability to relate and/or understand a different point of view, than from writing.

I have been featured at an art show in Harlem, a basketball halftime show, and a Haiti Relief Party. I frequent open mic's at Soule international restaurant and SoulSweet in the Bronx.

I am inspired by two things.

1. The human race and our ability to be so much in one, or so little. Our ability to hide, deny, and confuse our self in one sentence or gesture. I am dedicated to understand us as much as I possibly can, and in that, help other people to understand each other and hopefully themselves.

2. Ignorance. Intentional and unintentional. I am an avid believer that ignorance is the number one killer of our people, but that is because our reality/awareness is so hard to accept that its easier to settle for ignorance and call it bliss, so if as I learn or understand, I can therefore teach through my words than I believe my purpose had been served.

MY dream school is Howard University, where I plan to double major in Accounting and Business. My overall dream is to start my own business and organization, all centered around a ascension of the black community.

National Poetry Month Day 9 - Poet 9: Naima Yetunde Ince

Poetry comes in all types, shapes and sizes. And by that I mean I've seen Poetoricans, beat boxing poets, poets who paint, older poets, and poets as young as 13 doing their thing. Now I spotlight this young lady whom I've had the privilege to see and hear, at one of Mr. B's features at his Brain Damage open mic shows.

She's this tiny ball of powerful words and I want you to meet Naima...a talented performer and writer. Where poetry seems to be simply words that rhyme for many, Naima is one of many who helps us to understand that its more than just an art....its a state of being.

Wishing Ms. Ince a bright and budding future...my 9th feature of the month...Naima Yetunde Ince:

Naima Yetunde Ince is a talented spoken word artist who is flourishing in the world of theater.

Naima has earned a B.A. in Drama Studies from Purchase College, where she honed her theatrical skills as a playwright, director and stage manager. She is presently attending Pratt Institute earning her M.P.S. in Arts and Cultural Management.

Her recently staged one act play, Men Always Leave, successfully attests to an ambitious passion for the theatre arts. Most recently, tripled, as an actress, production assistant and stage manager for Melvin Van Peebles’s production of "Sweet Sweetback’s Baad Asssss Song"(A Hood Opera), which debuted in Paris, France in February 2010.

In the fall of 2009, Ms. Ince worked as assistant stage manager on the Rabbit Hole, produced by The Hudson Stage Company and is currently working on various other staged productions including a new play entitled "There Were Two Of Us in The Room," and a music album, Deliverance. Ince says, “This year has fired off like a cannon, with a phenomenal experience with Melvin Van Peebles and now, Caligula Maximus. I am finally carving and molding my career the way I’ve always wanted

National Poetry Month Day 8 - Poet 8: Luis Bernard

You'd find that I keep repeating this line and here it goes again, I met Luis Bernard at Soule Restaurant's open mic night. If you didn't believe me, believe me now, Soule was and is a house of poetry. I've met some truly wonderful artists at this arena and feel the honor of spotlighting them for all to see. Mr. B, Mr. B. He is indeed, poetry in motion. And by that I mean he's moving not only emotions with his words, but the artistic minds of tomorrow's leaders. Some of these youth leaders you will see in the days to come. They're amazing, they're talented and they're poetry.

Please take the time to see why Mr. B is an adored poet and community leader.

This poetry month, I spotlight Luis Bernard:



Luis Bernard
nardtruth@yahoo.com
http://myspace.com/theinprogressgroup
347-623-2547

Born in Spanish Harlem and Raised in Activism. Created a youth outreach organization called “The In Progress Group”. A collection of artists dedicated to helping youth understand that the realities of today, extends beyond the block; to take back our kids and empower them to create a new perception of themselves. Has conducted several workshops such as “Thug Bible” and “The Code of the N-Word” at various at-risk youth facilities throughout the New York and Westchester area such as the NAACP 4th Annual Educational Summit held at New Rochelle High School, The Children’s Village in Valhalla, University Settlement, Peekskill High Schools, St. Vincent’s Hospital (B.O.C.C.E.S.) in Harrison New York, Sister to Sister International, and the Bronx Christian fellowship.

A staunch advocate for citywide educational support for the physically challenged, Luis has taught poetry, creative writing, public speaking and has coached participants for the ACT-SO (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics) Regional competitions as well as being a committee member.

Involved in creating various computer workshops, in an attempt to bridge the digital divide among the technically challenged in his community.

Honored by the L.I.U. Pre-College Program for the Handicapped, for participation as a panelist/mentor for over 10 years.

Credits include:

featured poet at “Soul Food @ Bookies” in Portland Oregon, appeared in “DuEwa M. Frazier’s “Bringing in the New: Poems for the City” at the Nuyorican Poets Café, Vibe Theory in both Manhattan and Brooklyn, Children’s Village @ Dobbs Ferry, Hosted and provided poetry at the “60’s and 70’s Boogaloo Affair” at the Kennedy Center, The New York Hispanic Cultural Festival, The Bowery Poetry café, the Providence Black Repertory Company, Cynthia Roby’s “Spoken Word Artist from the Caribbean to Brooklyn” parts I & II, the NYC, Featured artist at Food 4 Thought, Brooklyn, Health & Hospital Corporation Hispanic Heritage Awards, Black History Month Art Exhibition/Poetry Event in the Harlem State Office Building and also produced the “Thug Bible Poetry Show” for an emotionally delayed youth population.

Facilitated Code of the N-Word workshops for Sister-to-Sister International and N.A.A.C.P. Youth Council, C0-facilitated poetry workshops for “Spoke-N-Heard” at Purchase College, Judged at several Urban Word Teen Poetry Slam Competitions, Judged at HarlemLive Teen Poetry Slams, facilitated creative writing/performance workshops for St. John The Baptist Cultural & Arts Center in Brooklyn.

In 2001 the In Progress Group was created by a collection of artist who were dedicated to taking back our youth one mind at a time.

Giving our young people a platform to address the issues that directly affects them.

Several workshops were introduced, including Code of the N-Word and Thug Bible, a gang intervention initiative, in order to establish line of communication with the Youth community.

In September 0f 2009, Brain Damage – A Youth Open Mic was started. Attracting High and College student in New York Tri-State area.

Realizing that because the events were held on Tuesday evenings, that there was a conflict with school nights. Therefore in January 2010 it was rescheduled to the first Saturday afternoon of the month. The result was not only a full house every session but a high demand from teens to be among the featured artist.

The popularity has been such that beginning in April a series of Creative Writing / Performance Workshops will be in place to help with better participation at the Brain Damage Events.

Two of those that I have mentored that have also come through this program are Naima Ince and Purpose (Nia Logan). With some guidance these very talented and scholastically committed young ladies are not only making moves in the arts but their community as well. I am happy to announce that aside from the accomplishments in the respective bio’s, they will also be a part of upcoming projects that will reach further out to empower our communities through the arts.

National Poetry Month Day 7 - Poet 7: Reina Miranda

This featured poet, is someone I met at Soule Restaurant at one of their open mic nights. I'm not sure if to call her a poet alone, for she wears so many different hats. She's a poet, a painter...could be a candle stick maker too, has gone back to school to further her degrees, hosts her own open mic event called The W.H.A.T.; which is held in the Washington Height Art Tantra. Reina hosts this event with her very good friend Divino DeNegro. But mostly of all, she's a proud Taino-Red Clay-Woman. Where Red Clay Woman is Native American to her Taino name Sipainaru. Poet/painter Reina Miranda. Reina's pride in her heritage spills our into her words and paintings. She's a poet that uses words and canvas as her platform to tell us (her audience) about who and what the Taino (Red-Clay) People are. Be sure to visit her site www.tainospirit.com and contribute to her art by buying a painting and or product from her cafe press site. Reina is also currently working on publishing her first collection of poetry through the publishing company Collections of Thoughts





Reina M. Miranda was born in Washington Heights to immigrant parents who came to the United States like so many others to provide for their children. Reina is the eldest of four, who first found her love for poetry at the age of 18. Reina has been presenting her spoken word/poetry on the New York City Poetry circuit for over two years. Reina is also a member of the Cacibajagua Taino Cultural Society, where she has been learning a lot more about her Taino ancestors. She is also registered and enrolled with the United Confederation of Taino People’s Taino Population Census and Inter-Tribal Registry. Reina finds the inspiration for her poetry from the many people she admires and has met at the various events throughout the New York tri-state area. In addition, she has learned to fuse her love of poetry together with her passion for promoting her Taino ancestry so she can help others get “Tainocated”. This term is used to better inform others about the Taino People of the Caribbean so they can get a better idea of the history of the region as well as where they came from and where they are going.

Reina M. Miranda has presented her poetry at some of the following locations:

5C Cultural Club: Feature
Capicu Poetry/ Notice Lounge
The NuyoRican Poet’s Café
Cemi Underground/ Taino Poetry Night
Nuve’s Bar and Café
HOSTOS Community College/ Momma’s Hip Hop Kitchen 2: Feature
Rebel Art Collective/ S.P.I.T
La Pregunta Café/Feed The Mic
Soule Restaurant/Open Mic Night
Denny Moe’s Barbershop/Poetry Under the Tree: Feature

And Several other venues in New York City and planning to go abroad in the future.

For more information or to book Ms. Miranda please contact:
redclaywoman304@gmail.com
917-251-0491

National Poetry Month Day 6 - Poet 6: Maya Angelou

Please visit www.mayaangelou.com for verified content and information about the author/poet

Dr. Maya Angelou's life in a movie, would have me glued to the television like a moth to a flame. Entranced. Unmoved. Dedicated.

Dr. Angelou is indeed, my favorite poet/author. I've said this time and time again. But, what about her that draws me to her and awarded her to being my favorite? I'll tell you. Its her life in words. I've read just about every poem I can, 3 of her novels, and I even own her cookbook, Hallelujah-Welcome-Table...it was given to me by my best friend, who knows that I ADORE Dr. Angelou...(I DON'T cook). I admire Dr. Angelou for the courage she possesses to tell me who she was then, without shame. I adore the words she uses to tell me what she experienced. She caused me to fall in love with words. With poetry. With writing. With her. And with ME. I was no longer afraid to look at myself, embrace my flaws, faults and facades.

We're all ashamed of something at some point in our lives, if we can't grow from those mistakes, we can never amount to anything.

That's the message I get when I read her writing about who she was, and what she went through to get to where and who, she IS. Dr. Angelou is magnificent. Ms. Angelou is daring. Ms. Angelou is challenging. And Ms. Angelou is poetry.

In honor of her recent birthday on April 4th and for national poetry month, I Dr. Angelou. I give her the recognition and respect that is well deserved.

My Salute and featured poet and inspiration: Dr. Maya Angelou

National Poetry Month Day 5: - Poet 5: Soule Restaurant

Soule Restaurant (click hyperlink for their blog): A place of great food...no no no...DELECTABLE food, charming people. Its ambiance and aura, would never tell you that poets/artists come here to recite. I've recited there many evenings and they owners even afforded me the space to have one of my book signings/readings



Soule is where I garnered a home. Its staff welcomed me into its open mic arena and reminded me that poetry isn't meant to be kept within....other folks are anxious and eager to read/listen to your words.

Every 2nd Tuesday in each month, Soule hosts a fired up, house packed open mic event. I told myself I'd go only ONE time...just ONCE...and ended up going on the days I didn't feel to recite. It housed such great talent, that I couldn't resist.

Now aside from its features, its menu is to die for. Whenever I visited, I would tell my friends who came along..."come hungry, because you KNOW we HAVE to throw down." There's no way you can go there and NOT eat. Their lemonade had me hooked.

So if you're EVER in Brooklyn, please Stop by Soule for a mouth watering dish. I recommend ANYTHING on the menu.

Soule International Restaurant, located at 920 Fulton Street in the Clinton Hill area of Brooklyn, serves an exotic fusion of Caribbean and Soul food and possesses an elegant ambiance that attracts patrons from afar. "The first thing to come to the table is hot corn muffins with warm pineapple coconut sauce (which is to die for)." This delicious start serves to heighten the anticipation for the actual entree, but don't let your eagerness deter you from experiencing the savory Crab Cake with Remoulade appetizer, or better yet, the Sampler Platter, which includes sweet BBQ wings, spicy jerk wings, codfish cakes, and catfish strips, bursting with flavor. With an extensive menu that features tender Blackened Salmon, sweet Coconut Shrimp with Apricot Duck Sauce and other exotic faire, Soule's is clearly a diamond in the rough that is emerging as a clear gem. Come taste the flavor of Soule!

National Poetry Month Day 4: - Poet 4: Pamilla deLeon-Lewis

And who says the media outlet is one man's worst creation? If you don't know what you're looking for you won't find it. And I happened to come into contact with this gem of a poet. Pamilla deLeon Lewis. Pamilla is a poet, author, speaker, and courageously, a breast cancer survivor. As founder of the Caribbean American Breast Cancer Organization, Pamilla uses her poetry to spread the word in support of this crippling disease that takes the life of many women.

For her courage and strength, I salute and feature Ms. Lewis this National Poetry Month...get to know her.

Pamilla deLeon-Lewis

The CEO/Founder of the Caribbean American Breast Cancer Organizatiion (CABCOUSA) wears several hats. Listed as one of the ”Top 100 AA Women in Literature”, this quintessential woman, the daughter of the late great award winning calypso legend, Rafael deLeon aka The Roaring Lion is a survivor of metastatic breast cancer. Ms. deLeon- Lewis is an award winning poet and author who was voted Woman of the Year 2006. Ms deLeon-Lewis is dedicating her efforts to empower the Caribbean and African American Communities in its fight against cancer. Through her confrontational poetry, songwriting, motivational speaking, and through media she boldly laughs at cancer daily. Chuckling Choonks is a Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher affiliated with Dr. Madan Kataria's School of Laughter Yoga and a Certified Life Coach. This breast cancer activist is also the Brooklyn Team leader of the Legislative Ambassadors for the American Cancer Society and a member of the Board of Advisors at SUNY Downstate Hospital Center in Brooklyn, New York. Miss DeLeon-Lewis is the author of “Smiling Thru The Tears: A Breast Cancer Survivor Odyssey- voted Book of the Year 2006, and Poetry of the Year 2006- I Fought the Fight, and the recently released- Side Effects: The Untold Story.

National Poetry Month: Day 3 - Poet 3: Michael Geffner - a platform for the poet in all of us

Today's feature is a prominent figure in the poetry world. As the founder/producer of The Inspired Word poetry/spoken word events at (Le) Poisson Rouge in Manhattan, New York City and the Mike's Writing Shop site, he makes a home for poets/spoken word artists to showcase their words and talent. You can also check out his blog The Inspired Word NYC, for updates and features of poets.

IF you haven't been to one of his events, please, be sure to check it out. I promise, you won't be disappointed.

Two Fridays EVERY Month!
Time: 7-10pm
Location: (Le) Poisson Rouge
http://lepoissonrouge.com/
158 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 505-FISH (3474)

Support a great thing! Let's show that poetry and spoken word is alive and well in New York City!

MUST BE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER! MAKE SURE TO BRING ID!


In the mean time, check out my feature for today: Michael P. Geffner

An award-winning writer/journalist for over 30 years, writing for Details, The Village Voice, Cigar Aficionado, The Associated Press, USA Today, Penthouse, Slam, Texas Monthly, Billiards Digest, The Sporting News, and The Writer. Acknowledged for excellence seven times by the annual Best American Sports Writing anthology and interviewed the likes of President Richard Nixon, Dennis Hopper, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Mickey Mantle, Reggie Jackson, Forest Whitaker, Derek Jeter, and Roger Clemens. Founder/Producer of The Inspired Word poetry/spoken word events @ (Le) Poisson Rouge in Manhattan, New York City.

National Poetry Month Day 2: - Poet 2: John Chance Acevedo

This featured poet/spoken word artist, I met at Soule Restaurant's open mic nights in Brooklyn. I was quickly drawn to his powerful voice, his cool demeanor and his haikus. Short but sweet and garnered oohs and aahs every time he read them.

Folks...I introduce to you my friend and poet...John Chance Acevedo


John "Chance" Acevedo

Chance has been reciting and hosting for about a decade. As the eldest of three, he receives inspiration from everyday life situations and most commonly uses a blend of comedy and drama to reflect his real-life experience. Chance has become recognized in many poetry venues and Universities which he has been facilitated workshops and a featured performer at such as The Bowery Poetry Club, Cornelia Street Café, The Green (in L.A.), The Nuyorican Poets Cafe, Amherst University, Boston University, Fordham University, John Jay College, Pace University, Sarah Lawrence College, Eastern Correctional Facility to name just a few. He’s been the popular host of "Brain Damage- youth Open Mic" and "Microphone Fiends" and "Urban Voices Heard" monthly showcases which he co-curates. Chance also hosted The First Annual New York Hip-Hop Dance Convention at Sony Studios. Chance has been published in Raul Maldonado`s The Company We Keep and “erato” Park Slope Poetry Project, he is the founding member of the hardest working poetry troupe on the scene "El Grito de Poetas" a collective of diverse Latino and Latina poets dedicated to the craft and performance of modern poetry. Chance`s confident stage presence makes him a performer to watch.

Upcoming events

April 3 Brain Damage @ Soule 920 fulton ave BK NY free free 4-6

April 10 Urban Voices Heard presents Write Out loud @ Books in the Hood 815 Westchester Ave BX NY
$5 suggested donation all monies go to the book store 4 -6pm

April 11 Microphone Fiends Spaha On lexington btw 103 and 104 free free 8 - 11pm

April 12 El Grito de Poetas 5 Year Anniversary @ The Nuyorican Poets cafe 236 east 3rd street btw Ave B & C $10 7- 10 10 - 12 reception

April 14 Rutgers University Pride Week
Rutgers Newark NJ 10pm - 12midnight free free free

Please feel free to check out Chance...as I know him...at any of the above events.

The talented John Chance Acevedo, is the individual responsible for the photo that heads my blog...not just a poet and spoken word artist, but a marvelous photographer.

National Poetry Month Day 1: 30 poets in 30 days

April is the designated month for poetry. Poetry. The art of putting words together to tell a story using metaphors, similes, rhymes, meters...and mostly discretion. Despite the compilation of words, one must read to get the message the writer aims to share. Its well hidden, or sometimes as clear as day.

Not everyone likes poetry. For most, its a mundane art form. But for MANY its the air we breathe. Well not literally lol (see the hidden message?). Poetry is our way out of the world. Its our window to a peace of mind. And its how we help make sense of things. Its even used by some psychiatrists and psychologists as a form of therapy...poetry therapy

Since I've published my two collections of poetry... Collections of a See Through Soul - Portraits and Bardvillian Symphonies ... I went on an excursion. One that brought me into contact with so many powerful and dedicated poets. I've been to open mics at, Food for Thought, Juke's Juice Joint, Brownstone Books, NuYorican Cafe, open mics at Soule Restaurant, Stilettos and Sounds, and WAR hosted by the damn-she's-the-shit Jamica up in Harlem. Now be reminded, I'm NO spoken word poet. But MAN have I come across some of THE BEST poets ever. I know I haven't scratched the surface of talent, but the hand full of talents that I've met, only confirms just how appreciated poetry is to MANY.

So, in lieu of poetry month, most of us write a poem a day. 30 in 30. While I write my 30 in 30, I aim to bring you 30 poets and contributors to the poetry scene over the next 30 (well 28) days...I'm a bit behind.

Happy poetry month folks...lets keep the art alive.

"Uptown" - A novel...the book release party

A few weeks ago I blogged my interview with the beautiful authors Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant. Since my interview, I was honored to be invited to their New York City book release party of "Uptown", held at the fabulous B.Smith Restaurant., last Tuesday. OH! what an ENJOYABLE party it was.

This was my first time meeting the very beautiful Virginia DeBerry & Donna Grant. From the minute I introduced myself and mentioned my name, the warmth of hugs and smiles fell upon me. I didn't expect it, but it felt like I had known them more than the 3 months or more I began following them on twitter. It settled my nerves.

It made the mingling a bit easier. In addition to the introduction, the guests who filled the room also made it comfortable and a pleasure to mix and mingle. I, with my friends, met, networked and held conversations with some wonderful people. Even the aura and ambiance of the location was perfect.

I want to send my special thanks to authors Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant for inviting me to their release and for the warm welcome that was extended.

I, again, wish you continued success.

Much love,

Onika