Category Archives: College and University

Joseph Matthews is a father to many and a leader to all. Talks about hard times as a child at the Roundtable

LEADERSHIP And Love Have 4 Things In Common

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LEADERSHIP And Love Have 4 Things In Common, and you will learn all about each when you grab a seat at this week’s Urban Academics Roundtable.

He is a Coach (Basketball & Football), Community Activist, Director at Westchester Bangels Booster Club, and Gullah Geechee Historian. We are more than blessed to have this king at the Urban Academics Roundtable, as HOT-Seat Number Fifty-Seven(57). This is an invitation for you to join us, but you can Register Here

WATCH NOW: HOT-Seat at The Roundtable, Season One

The Urban Academics HOT-Seat, Season One Featuring Twelve Chosen Visionaries in the HOT-Seat. You Can Binge Watch by Clicking Below! SUBSCRIBE to Our YouTube Channel NOW & CLICK THE BELL!

Three Books You Should Read Now

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

“I love the children of James Island and all of Charleston, so I went to the city council meeting to explain why we need a gym! They listened to me, and before I would leave, they gave me checks, money, and a promise to get it done. God is good.”

Coach Matthews

Meet Our Next Chosen Visionary in the HOT-Seat

Recently featured in the fun Auto Insurance Commercial for Geico, the 90s classic Reel School HIP HOP  due TAG TEAM is back on TOP. Bursting onto the scene with their TOP OF THE POPS hit and automatically became one of those songs that stick in your head. “Whoomp! (There It Is).” The track quickly climbed to #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B charts in just 14 days. The song continues to appeal to admirers raised in the ‘90s and appeals to new enthusiasts of every era as it is recognized as a true symbol of the time. “Whoomp! (There It Is)” has been showcased in world-class nationwide ad campaigns as well as in Hollywood hit motion pictures and television series

  • Joseph Matthews is a father to many and a leader to all. Talks about hard times as a child at the Roundtable

Joseph Matthews was born and raised in Charleston South Carolina, and grew up in he middle of the transformation “After Freedom.” His memories bring him back to the plantation, but how is that possible when he’s not old enough to have experienced certain dates in history.

Some people don’t know that there are folks in Charleston who chose to stay on the plantation after freedom because they had no other options. They were not learned, and all they knew was where they found themselves.

Hear the story of a true historian who is not too far removed from the real truth about black folks’ passage to American soil – And those who remain.

Here are four things that set King Joseph Matthews apart from the others: (1) Love for Children; Love for the family; (3) Love for God; and (4) Love for Life.

Notable Accomplishments

  1. Service: Food Distribution to the Needy Weekly
  2. Service: Director – Westchester Parks & Recreation
  3. Service: Director – Westchester Bengals Booster Club

Three Things You Should Do Now

What’s More

When DC “The Brain Supreme” Glenn is not outperforming around the world as a “Tag Team” partner, he is extremely excited about technology and is a MASTER at Search Engine Optimization (SEO).

Are You New To Urban Academics?

Who should attend? Administrators, C.E.O.s, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Any Questions?

If you have comments or questions, for DC Glenn, of Tag Team, or the Urban Academics Roundtable please post them in the comments section below . Thank you for reading, and may God bless you!

DC The Brain Supreme Glenn of the Duo Tag-Team! Whoomp! There it Is.

To People That Want To Start RAP MUSIC INDUSTRY But Are Afraid To Get Started

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The 90’s was a critical time for black and brown folks in America, especially black, brown and poor folks! There was a surge of crack cocaine reaching into the inner city neighborhoods, and Rap music had made it to mainstream radio – Even MTV, which had a problem even promoting music from Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, or Luther Vandross on their channel.

One song that made these two community realities was “Whoomp! There it Is,” the 90’s party anthem, and a popular song at Rick’s Cafe (the Cliff)! We are blessed to have one-half of the Tag Team Duo at the Urban Academics Roundtable. This is an invitation for you to join us, but you can Register Here

: https://bit.ly/UranAcademicsRoundtableSeat

WATCH NOW: HOT-Seat at The Roundtable, Season One

The Urban Academics HOT-Seat, Season One Featuring Twelve Chosen Visionaries in the HOT-Seat. You Can Binge Watch by Clicking Below! SUBSCRIBE to Our YouTube Channel NOW & CLICK THE BELL!

Three Books You Should Read Now

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

“I share everything I have because I love what I do and want to make sure others have the same opportunities I have or even more.”

DC “The Brain Supreme” Glenn

Meet Our Next Chosen Visionary in the HOT-Seat

Recently featured in the fun Auto Insurance Commercial for Geico, the 90s classic Reel School HIP HOP  due TAG TEAM is back on TOP. Bursting onto the scene with their TOP OF THE POPS hit and automatically became one of those songs that stick in your head. “Whoomp! (There It Is).” The track quickly climbed to #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B charts in just 14 days. The song continues to appeal to admirers raised in the ‘90s and appeals to new enthusiasts of every era as it is recognized as a true symbol of the time. “Whoomp! (There It Is)” has been showcased in world-class nationwide ad campaigns as well as in Hollywood hit motion pictures and television series

DC The Brain Supreme Glenn of the Duo Tag-Team! Whoomp! There it Is.
Tanisha King, Ph.D., Chosen Visionary in HOT-Seat 55 (Athens OH)

Other top songs from their hit album  Whoomp! (There It Is)  includes “Freestyle” and “U Go Girl.”  Spanning the spectrum from TV and Radio Adverts, programs, films, and sporting events, TAG TEAM’s music has risen to be the defining 90’s Hip Hop Melodic Voice.  The big hit “Whoomp!” remains highly relevant, and those ranging in age from 8 to 108 continue to groove and boogie down to the exceptional tune.

With ‘90s hip-hop more recognizable than ever, venues worldwide are energized to watch Tag Team live and in action. Social media has also supplied a new avenue for converting music enthusiasts into “Whoomp!” fans. DC Glenn and Steve thrive on hooking up with brand new fans who have discovered them via viral Facebook posts and appreciate seeing their blissful faces when listening to the song performed live.

Notable Accomplishments

  1. Agency: ThePeople Store Agency
  2. Artist: Rap/Hip Hop Icon of the Tag-Team
  3. Artist: Professional Voice Over Artists
  4. Commercial: Geico Auto Insurance
  5. Song: Whoomp! There it Is
  6. Speaker: On the International stage
  7. Trainer: Music Training Seminars at law colleges, Universities and entertianment industry events

Tag Team pioneers DC The Brain Supreme and Steve Rolen stay dedicated to entertaining fans and delivering an old-school hip-hop blowout to hotspots worldwide. Audiences for Tag Team events vary in age from the very young to the ‘old fools from the old school,’ and “Whoomp!” delivers the ‘90s experience like no other. DC Glenn and Steve love the powerful experience of looking over a jam-packed arena and comprehending how much their simple song has inspired the lives of countless millions throughout the world.

The legendary tune and dynamic high school friends captivate those of every generation as their style speaks to folks who remember when hip-hop was truly hip-hop. The degree of anticipation at a Tag Team concert is almost palpable as fans wait in delight for the high-energy party that’s to come. 

Listen to their top hit and more 

Three Things You Should Do Now

What’s More

When DC “The Brain Supreme” Glenn is not outperforming around the world as a “Tag Team” partner, he is extremely excited about technology and is a MASTER at Search Engine Optimization (SEO).

Are You New To Urban Academics?

Who should attend? Administrators, C.E.O.s, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Any Questions?

If you have comments or questions, for DC Glenn, of Tag Team, or the Urban Academics Roundtable please post them in the comments section below . Thank you for reading, and may God bless you!

Ph.D. Knows How To Teach Education Revival Better Than Anyone Else – In the HOT-Seat

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Education in America has been hard, especially for African American (black and brown) children. It appears that we can no longer ignore the truth – If others control the overall societal narrative, eventually, you’ll have no choice but to fight for what’s yours.

I’m well aware of the fact that we’ve been fighting for education, police and voter reforms, and so many other injustices long enough. However, here’s a quote by a great woman who was filled with wisdom, laying her life down for the dream she shared with her husband …

“Struggle is a never-ending process. Freedom is never really won. You earn it and win it in every generation.”

Coretta Scott-King, Author and Civil Rights Icon

WATCH NOW: HOT-Seat at The Roundtable, Season One

The Urban Academics HOT-Seat, Season One Featuring Twelve Chosen Visionaries in the HOT-Seat. You Can Binge Watch by Clicking Below! SUBSCRIBE to Our YouTube Channel NOW & CLICK THE BELL!

Three Books You Should Read Now

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

Meet Our Next Chosen Visionary in the HOT-Seat

This week’s Chosen Visionary is an author, consultant, public speaker from Athens. OH. Dr. King currently serves as the Chief Inclusion Officer for the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine at Ohio University. She is also an Adjunct Professor
in the Department of Social Medicine. Additionally, she is an Adjunct Professor at Southern New Hampshire University, where she teaches a Ph.D. level social change course.

Previously, Dr. King has taught at the undergraduate and graduate levels at the University of Illinois and Fordham University and served her communities through volunteerism as members of various boards of directors.

Dr. Tanisha King currently serves as the Chief Inclusion Officer for the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine at Ohio University. She is also an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Social Medicine.

Tanisha King, Ph.D., Chosen Visionary in HOT-Seat 55 (Athens OH)
Tanisha King, Ph.D., Chosen Visionary in HOT-Seat 55 (Athens OH)

Her inaugural book “Out of Battle into Freedom“ was featured at an NAACP author pavilion and described on Amazon as a “must-read.” Dr. King is the Founder of Dr. King Speaks, LLC, where she helps organizations move from performative to transformative diversity, equity, and inclusion practices and empowers women to defy odds and overcome obstacles through radical self-love.

Dr. Tanisha combines her education as a Master’s Level Social Worker with a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership – She’s at the Urban Academics Roundtable as Chosen visionary in HOT-Seat 55. This is an invitation for you to join us, but you need to register here; It’s FREE!

Notable Accomplishments

  1. Author: Out of Battle Into Freedom by Tanisha King, Ph.D. ($9.99)
  2. Education: A three-time alumna of the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign
  3. Entrepreneur: Founder, Dr. King Speaks, LLC
  4. Political Seat: Member of the Champaign County Board
  5. Producer: The Tanisha King Show (Podcast)
  6. Speaker/Lecturer: Discussing Politics, Social Justice, Women Empowerment +
  7. Teaching Professor: Fordham University, Ohio University, University of Illinois
  8. Theatre: Virginia Theater Performance “That’s What She Said”

Three Things You Should Do Now

What’s More

When Dr. Tanisha is not out saving the world, she finds relaxation in the form of a weekly bubble bath! If she does not get her bath, it’s a severe problem. We should all take better care of ourselves; Pampering is just the beginning.

Are You New To Urban Academics?

Who should attend? Administrators, C.E.O.s, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Any Questions?

Please post them in the comments section below if you have questions for Dr. Tanisha King or the Urban Academics Roundtable. Thank you for reading, and may God bless you!

Expert Covid-19 Survivor at the Urban Academics Roundtable

Where Is The Best EXPERT COVID-19 SURVIVOR?

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Where Is The Best EXPERT COVID-19 SURVIVOR? Obviously, at the Urban Academics Roundtable in the coveted HOT-Seat! If you’ve not been through it, there’s little you can contribute – Unless you can add to it (the story), roll with and stay clear about your focus and goal. In this case, this “praying wife” was determined to win – Her husband and her life back, in Jesus’ Name, Amen!

The past year has been crazy, but some of us are just grateful to have made it to the other side of the living. The government shut Businesses and schools down – the very structure of American life ripped apart without anyone’s permission. Who’s the boss? Who can argue with God? Certainly not me; Or no one I knew personally.

“As of May 27, 2021, nearly 133 million people in the U.S. are fully vaccinated, and the national percentage of COVID-19 tests that came back positive over the last 7 days was less than 3%. This is one of the lowest rates the United States has seen since widespread testing began.”

Center for Desease Control, COVID-19 Data Tracker

Subscribe to Urban Academics YouTube Channel

Three Books You Should Read NOW …

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

Up Next In The HOT-Seat

Before March of 2020, Marcy and her husband Theirrien “Tee” Clark were your typical suburban Maryland fun-loving, empty-nester couple, living their lives to the fullest. Then, in the blink of an eye, life as they knew it drastically changed. In March 2020, COVID-19 struck their household, forcing them to endure the ultimate test of faith, marriage, finances, and the ultimate test of life itself! Both spouses contracted COVID-19.

Lady Marcy Myles-Clark dines at the Urban Academics Roundtable as Chosen Visionary in HOT-Seat Number Fifty-Four (54), Thursday at 9:30 pm (EDT): This is Your Invitation To Join Us At The Weekly Roundtable. ALL Seats FREE. RSVP HERE.

Urban Academics Roundtable HOT-Seat Number Fifty-Four (54) Marcy Myles-Clark, MBA, Baltimore, MD,

Tee spent 46-days isolated, for the most part, from his wife and family as Johns Hopkins Hospital’s worst COVID-19 case then. With 28 of those 46-days in a medically induced coma, Tee’s health was failing from a physical and medical standpoint. Marcy used her faith, prayers, skills, and talents to help her husband navigate one of the most challenging times in modern life.

Marcy Myles-Clark’s Notable Accomplishments:

Lady Marcy Myles-Clark dines at the Urban Academics Roundtable as Chosen Visionary iLady Marcy Myles-Clark dines at the Urban Academics Roundtable as Chosen Visionary in HOT-Seat Number Fifty-Four (54), Thursday at 9:30 pm (EDT): This is Your Invitation To Join Us At The Weekly Roundtable. ALL Seats FREE. RSVP HERE.

“Now that I on the other side, it’s my mission to help others Win!”

Marcy Myles-Clark, MBA, and Author: Praying Wife Healed Husband: How We Survived A Death-Defying COVID-19 Experience

One year later, they are FULLY VACCINATED, healthy and whole, and best-selling authors. As an Expert (Master) COVID-19 Survivor and “Life Strategist,” Lady Marcy is at the forefront of providing others with guiding principles, peace of mind strategies, practical and spiritual resources, and tips on “How to WIN; In and out of a Pandemic!”

Praying-Wife-Healed-Husband:

Lady Marcy Myles-Clark dines at the Urban Academics Roundtable as Chosen Visionary in HOT-Seat Number Fifty-Four (54), Thursday at 9:30 pm (EDT): This is Your Invitation To Join Us At The Weekly Roundtable. ALL Seats FREE. RSVP HERE.

Thank You and God Bless

Thank you for reading, and if you’ve made it far down the page, it speaks to the article meeting your expectations. If that’s the case, leave us a great comment, and then Subscribe to Urban Academics YouTube Channel HERE!

Lady Marcy Myles-Clark dines at the Urban Academics Roundtable as Chosen Visionary in HOT-Seat Number Fifty-Four (54), Thursday at 9:30 pm (EDT): This is Your Invitation To Join Us At The Weekly Roundtable. ALL Seats FREE. RSVP HERE.

Are You New To Urban Academics or the Roundtable?

Who should attend? Administrators, C.E.O.s, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and YOU! ALL People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries are encouraged to attend. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Any Questions?

Please post your questions and thoughts in the comments section below for any HOT-Seat Chosen Visionary or members of the Urban Academics family. More information is HERE! Thank you for reading, and may God bless you!

Where Is The Best EXPERT COVID-19 SURVIVOR?

Pay 2021 Graduation Fees With A Cool Little FREE CASH Tool ($2,500) Due 5/10/21

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Good Day, High Achievers! So glad that you’ve joined me here today for another dose of FREE Cash 4 College by Ms. Patrina. I’m delighted to share $2,500 in FREE Cash directly from United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

If you attend any UNCF-affiliated school, you can apply. Here are some schools around my area, but where you graduated may not be on this list. However, if you attended and graduated from an HBCU, (AND have an outstanding balance preventing you from graduating): APPLY FOR THIS CASH NOW! The deadline is June 10, 2021.

Some UNCF Affiliated Schools

  • Bennett College
  • Johnson C. Smith University
  • Livingstone College
  • Saint Augustine’s University
  • Shaw University
  • UNCF affiliated

GO HERE TO APPLY NOW; Good Luck!

Mr. Dave Pickens (Charlotte, NC) Chosen Visionary in HOT-Seat 53, Expert Mold Inspector and Creator of Chess Master's Curriculum for Kids

Interesting Facts I Bet You Never Knew About MOLD

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The best way to get rid of mold is to prevent it (before it develops). But honestly, how many of us are walking around with dreams of mold in our heads? Not many, I would presume. Humidity is significant, so keeping levels optimized is a great idea – regardless of whether you believe mold is lurking or not.

Keeping the humidity levels at home under 50% is recommended. It is also advised to invest in a good dehumidifier or an AC to maintain the low humidity. Proper ventilation helps keep mold away, too, so open your windows sometimes, especially while cleaning with harsh chemicals.

Three Books To Read Now

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

Up Next In The HOT-Seat

Chosen Visionary in the HOT-Seat Number Fifty-Three (53) is Mr. Dave Pickens (Charlotte, NC), Expert Mold Inspection, Remediation, and Removal Specialist at I Can Fix That, LLC. Mr. Dave was called into the mold and removal industry after losing his brother to cancer caused by health risks related to mold exposure. Such a personal loss, he has grown passionate about identifying the problem and then attacking it from that source.

“It’s what you don’t see and breathe! Mold will start to overwhelm your body’s immune system, which can cause inflammation. You are breathing in airborne mycotoxins. These mycotoxins cause serious health risks and attack all areas of the body.”

Mr. Dave Pickens, CEO, I Can Fix That LLC
A brick wall with mold
A brick wall with mold

Much like the game of chess, which Mr. Dave is also an expert with a passion for every piece of the board. So much so that he wrote a curriculum (AKA DEM MICS) to teach children the game.

Facts About Mold

  • According to the Center for Disease Control stated that mold attacks your body as an allergenic, pathogenic, or toxigenic
  • Bleach DOES NOT kill mold
  • Customer input is important when looking for mold – Even if you’re experienced.
  • Mold is identified through air quality testing, laboratory analysis reports, recognition, swabs, tape lifts, and visual inspections.
  • Protocol(s) on the safest way to encapsulate and stop the mold from spreading is necessary.
  • Remember, “It’s what you don’t see and breathe that can harm you
  • There are various kinds of mold(s)
  • Vaporizing systems (an organic fungicide) are used to kill airborne spores. Then the contaminated waste is removed in an environmentally safe manner.
  • You may have MOLD throughout your property and never know.

What’s More?

When Mr. Dave is not out fighting mold, he’s helping elders restore and winterize their homes, playing chess, or working in his garden, where he and his wife Bernitta share with neighbors fresh veggies.

Are You New To Urban Academics?

Who should attend? Administrators, C.E.O.s, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Any Questions?

Please post your questions and thoughts in the comments section below; For any HOT-Seat Chosen Visionary or members of the Urban Academics family. More information is HERE! Thank you for reading, and may God bless you!

Fascinating PAY WHATEVER Tactics That Can Help Your Business Grow

171 Replies

Food has been the cornerstone of African-American life since landing here on these shores of America, especially the coast of South Carolina, where the low country reign supreme. Imagine combining a Chosen Visionary with the spirit of stick-to-it-ness, and you have a recipe for the Urban Academics Roundtable.

The Roundtable was started as a direct result of COVID-19 (April 16, 2020). As educators, school systems and PIMOSH providers through the expansion of 2019, we knew something was brewing in education late 2018.

For the first time since 2004, The PIMOSH Network was making moves with folks we’d been talking to for years around the idea of expansion/subsidiary opportunities in South Carolina being one of the expansion states. Things were changing – seemingly for the better, still more of the same bureaucracy. 

THREE BOOKS TO READ

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

A fight was on our hands, and we knew it – Here was COVID-19, schools were closed, parents didn’t know what hit them, and now we should have higher levels of respect for teachers, especially those within inner-city, urban school systems. On top of everything else – There was a presidential election.

With most public schools closed and limited supplies getting to inner-city kids at certain times during the pandemic, there was a woman in Charleston who took it upon herself to feed and help everyone! Here’s the thing – Her idea of food forever was planted years before COVID-19. Again, food draws people in general. How much more the children?

This Week In The HOT-Seat

Ragina Scott Saunders is a Charleston, SC native – A true Gullah Geechee girl. She’s also the brainchild and owner of Scotts Grand event center located at 5060 Dorchester Road in North Charleston, South Carolina.

Her love for cooking and hospitality came from her grandparents.

“There was always a pot on the stove that was supernaturally never empty, no matter what the circumstance. Everybody always got to eat!”

Ragina Scott Saunders, Author, Entrepreneur & Philanthropist Scott’s Grand Event Center N. Charleston

Scotts Grand celebrates art, family, and business through special occasions, catering, and corporate events. Her outgoing and self-driven nature, coupled with a personal passion for “helping people connect, has found blessings and much success as an expert throughout the catering, event management space.

Lady Ragina continues that tradition passed down from her grandparents, feeding folks through the Destiny Community Café, the area’s only Pay-What-You-Can Healing Community café; She’s the founder and executive director.

The purpose of Destiny is to raise the level of awareness about food insecurity (hunger) in this country and reduce food waste while also being a catalyst for change in our communities. The Cafe works to reduce food waste while serving and giving from the heart.

Notable Accomplishments:

Ragina Saunders is no stranger to media and TV interview – Here’s a recent piece of press bestowed on the Queen of Soul Food …

She is also the creator of the Soul Food Foundation and contributor to Gullah/Geechee Kitchen bringing chefs, cooks, and restaurants together around “soul food” to preserve the culture, history, and roots of the soul food industry.

What’s More?

She is a wife of over 28 years with great faith. As a mother of three, two daughters, and one son, she is blessed with a granddaughter who is now 4-months old. They all live happily with “Sparrow,” their dog.

Whenever Lady Ragina is not saving the world, she is on the beach reading a book with family nearby.

Are You New To Urban Academics?

Who should attend? Administrators, C.E.O.s, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Any Questions?

Please post your questions and thoughts in the comments section below; For any HOT-Seat Chosen Visionary or members of the Urban Academics family. More information is HERE! Thank you for reading, and may God bless you!

A Beautifully Refreshing Perspective On ARTS EDUCATION AND THE THEATRE

222 Replies

The arts in education and theater are not new to the world; each of these phenomenons is expressive models that most people desire. The ability to express oneself does come in many forms. Still, the theatre is not recorded, nor is it edited, and therefore needs skilled performers and talent for ticketed guests to experience something they’ll remember and tell others about.

When we look at black and brown folks in the theatre, it’s not widely a choice for performing artists; Black folks tend to go towards film/movies or rap/sing. This week at the Urban Academics Roundtable, Chosen Visionary Number Fifty-One (51) will share the climate in the theatre when he was a student and graduate from Howard University Drama Department, and whether that distinguished degree made the playing field easy or not?

What does the climate look like today in the theatre for black folks, and what can we do to ensure the next generation of talented young people find their way to the most fruitful opportunities?

WATCH NOW – The HOT-Seat at Urban Academics, Season One

The term “Black Theatre” combines plays and musicals directed, performed, produced, or written by African-Americans (Blacks) over the past 200 years.

The Harlem Renaissance of the late ’20s and ’30s was mostly responsible for causing the blow-up that paved the way for hidden skilled performers and talented acts. There is so much that came out of this era that remains, but what was once there that is no more? Find out at the Urban Academics Roundtable, Thursday at 9:30 pm (EDT). You are invited to join us; It’s FREE; GRAB a Seat HERE.

Three Books You Should Read NOW

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

This Week In The HOT-Seat

a graduate of Howard University’s Department of Drama. He Mr. Holtz is a writer, actor, director and teacher with an extensive background in theater, film/video and stand-up comedy.  He teaches theater in the Newark (NJ) Public Schools.

Gregory Holtz, Sr, is HOT-Seat Number 51 - Artistic Director, Actor, Publisher, and Writer Dines With Us At the Urban Academics Roundtable, Thursday at 9:30 PM (EDT)

Notable Accomplishments

  • Film and TV Projects: Chicken Special
  • Film and TV Projects: Field Your Way Through It,
  • Film and TV Projects: The Mission
  • Sitcoms: Beacon Place
  • Sitcoms: South Africans-Americans
  • School Project: Mind Builders-Positive Youth Troupe
  • School Project: NJPAC, Writer’s Theater of New Jersey
  • School Project: New Jersey State Council for the Arts, NJPAC
  • School Project: New York Shakespeare Festival’s Playwriting in the Schools program
  • School Project: NYU’s Creative Arts Team
  • School Project: The Children’s Art Carnival
  • School Project: Theater for the Forgotten’s Changing Scenes
  • Service: Cultural Envoy to South Africa through U.S. Department of State as a playwright
  • Writing Credits: A Christ Mass Story
  • Writing Credits: Ali…From Cassius Clay To Bomaye
  • Writing Credits: Black Codes From The Underground, (produced by Lincoln Center’s Directors Lab 1999)
  • Writing Credits: Grandma’s Hands
  • Writing Credits: Lifeline
  • Writing Credits: The Anansi X-5000
  • Writing Credits: Trip This
  • Writing Credits: Where’s Bobby?

Three Things You Should Do NOW

What’s More?

Mr. Holtz currently serves as Writer/Producer with Think Young, LLC developing docuseries on the life of Andrew Young. If you have any questions for King Holtz, please use the comments section below – We will make sure he gets your message and respond accordingly.

Are You New To Urban Academics?

Who should attend? Administrators, CEOs, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Any Questions?

Please post your comments or questions in the comments section below for any HOT-Seat Chosen Visionary, or for Members of Urban Academics Online. More information is HERE! Thank you for reading, and may God bless you!

If You Want To Be A Winner, Change YOUR BELIEF IN YOURSELF Philosophy Now

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Believing in your dreams and that of others is not as easy as it sounds, but doable on all accounts if you only believe. You can do anything you will do in this life, but it’s difficult to drown out the background noise and stay focused on the goal ahead. Chosen Visionaries are born out of

People come in all shapes, sizes, and colors and can be tricky at best. It’s up to the visionary to see what God has purposed in their hearts and then move to that end with the fear present, taking courage in moving forward. Why do some make it while others give up, falling flat on their face more often than not?

WATCH NOW: HOT-Seat at The Roundtable, Season One

The Urban Academics HOT-Seat, Season One Featuring Twelve Chosen Visionaries in the HOT-Seat. You Can Binge Watch by Clicking Below! SUBSCRIBE to Our YouTube Channel NOW & CLICK THE BELL!

Three Books You Should Read Now

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

Meet Our Next Chosen Visionary in the HOT-Seat

His week’s Chosen Visionary began a professional life of acting and singing after moving to NYC from Chicago and landing her debut role as a breakout star in the movie MO’ Better Blues (A Spike Lee Joint) and several other movies over the years. What’s so neat was that her role called for a female singer/vocalist; She got the job, and her featured song, Harlem Blues, climbed up the R&B Billboard charts to number one (see the video to her chart-topper below).

Cynda sings professionally for film and the stage. She sings Jazz, Americana, and R&B/Hip Hop Fusion with THe WES Group, Michael Martin Band, and The C & Ronnie G’s Band.

Lady Cynda is also a weekly co-host with DJ Kid Disco on “The Morning Melanated Show” from 10 am-12 pm Wednesday. Catch the Show Here!

Cynda WIlliams, Actress, Author, Singer, Speaker at Pink Pantie Confessions PPC Productions from Greater Chicago on Keeping The Faith

Notable Accomplishments

  1. Author: Pink Pantie Confessions (P.P.C.) by Cynda Williams ($9.99)
  2. Film/Movies: 72-Hours, by Christopher Nolan
  3. Film/Movies: A Change in The World, by Mark Vadik
  4. Film/Movies: Caught Up by Darin Scott
  5. Film/Movies: Kings Of LA by Van Elder
  6. Film/Movies: Life Aint Like The Movies, by Robert Butler
  7. Film/Movies: Mad As Hell by Robert Parham
  8. Film/Movies: MO’ Better Blues, A Spike Lee Joint
  9. Film/Movies: Pieces of David, by Lawrence D Wallace
  10. Film/Movies: Ray Meets Helen, by Alan Rudolph
  11. Producer: Pending Series Podcast on the Anchor Platform
  12. Producer: PPC RADIO SHOW
  13. Television Appearances: ABC – Oprah’s Mini-Series, The Wedding
  14. Television Appearances: BET’s Hidden Blessings
  15. Television Appearances: HBO’s Dorothy Dandridge
  16. Television Appearances: PBS’s Tales of The City
  17. Writer: Creator of Books, Musicals, and Screenplays

WATCH NOW: Cynda Williams “Harlem Blues” Performance

Three Things You Should Do Now

What’s More

Cynda has always liked to volunteer, and when she’s not helping others, she’s working on her many projects. She especially loves the Guiding Light, Inc. out of Muncie, India, where Cynda serves as the nonprofit’s consultant for the arts. Ms. Williams continues to sing and accepts quality roles in film, television, theatre, and she’s here at the Urban Academics Roundtable.

Are You New To Urban Academics?

Who should attend? Administrators, CEOs, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Any Questions?

Please post them in the comments section below if you have questions for Lady Cynda Williams or Urban Academics. Thank you for reading, and may God bless you!

Easy Ways You Can Turn CHURCH HURT TESTIMONY Into Success

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Being a gifted child comes with its advantages and disadvantages too! When you have usable gifts and talents within the Black Church, that can become a whole other level of problems, some of which you can share, and the rest, let us say many folks carry that part to their graves.


The Black Church is responsible for turning out many quality acts over the years, and we’ve heard all of the stories at one point or another. Aretha Franklin, Monica, Toni and Tamar Braxton, so many others. What do you do when it hurts regardless? Most artists tell stories of running away from the church/pain.


This week at the Urban Academics Roundtable, the chosen visionary is here to share his story around hurt experienced in the church because he was gifted and talented. All blessings, bad and good, come through people – But not all people can be who we want them to be. Until we know the circumstance, situation, or overall story, getting it all wrong is easy.

READ THIS PRESS RELEASE ON MANNY JAMES

Three Books You Should Read NOW

  1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
  2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
  3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

This Week in The HOT-Seat

Manny James, Church Street South Entertainment, recording artist, songwriter, and composer, was born and raised in New Haven, CT. A singer and performer since the age of 8. He grew up in a community that presented many challenges. He says, “We didn’t have much growing up, but we made the best of what we had” Those days and experiences fueled the creativity you see today.

According to Manny, Church Street South, his childhood neighborhood, is honest and remains relatable today. Manny’s approach to life, songwriting, and performing come from Church Street South projects, what was once called the worst housing projects in America during the 1980s.

Manny says his music and performances give back to the people.  

“As an artist, I need to create from an honest space. Writing songs where people relate always makes the best music.”

Manny James, R&B Singer/Songwriter and Community Activists

Notabke Accomplishments

  • Co-wrote and released the YouTube viral sensation “So Incredible” (The Julio Jones Dance) via a Visa/NFL “My Football Fantasy” campaign. The campaign garnered 4.6 million views in less than a week.
  • Debuted in the Top 25 on iTunes (Just Being Honest)
  • He established himself as an artist and songwriter before “Just Being Honest” hit digital outlets
  • James brought no-holds-barred soulful and unique performances
  • Headliner or opening act
  • Known at many of Tri-State’s top venues

Three Things You Need To Do Now

In 2017 the phenomenal “Church Street South” release, named after the neighborhood he grew up in, led to his most successful year to date, gaining twenty-two thousand fans from 57 countries.  

What’s More?

In 2020 Manny formed his record label Church Street South Entertainment and released a new single, “Never Let Go.” The song is well received. A full-length album is next, showcasing unsung musicians and up-and-coming vocal magic. You can contact Manny by using the comments section below.

Are You New To The Weekly Roundtable

Who should attend? Administrators, CEOs, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Questions?

Use the Comments Section Below to ask questions or get in touch with this HOT-Seat Chosen Visionary or the Urban Academics staff. Ask away, and she will get to your questions and quickly as possible. CLICK HERE FOR HOT-SEAT INFO!