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I talk about being aware of your mental and emotional selves a lot on my blog. I wish I was better at taking my own advice, I give really good advice guys, but please make sure you find joy in what can seem like trying times. I also want to stress to take it easy on people and be patient. Primarily if, like me, you work with and deal with people and different personalities every day…
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By Patricia Rogers | Posted Sunday, August 1, 2021
Lately, I have been thinking a lot about happiness. I read somewhere that it is not a destination, that happiness is an ongoing journey. But for some reason, it has been feeling like a battle. There are so many aspects of life that lead to this pursuit. There is your personal/social life, physical/mental health, professional, and family. I can go on and on. This is why it is important to take care of yourself from the inside and out. Is there peace and happiness in your orbit?
I met Mike, aka Nisho, via social media when he joined our wrestling Twitter community. He was nice, funny, and I learned that he was multi-talented. He is a musician and podcaster. His friends would describe him as laid back, stubborn, and caring.
He hosts a podcast called The Cole and Soul Podcast:
“Alongside my cohost Nicole Learner, we highlight artists, entrepreneurs, and business owners (we emphasize Black/people of color) within the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas. (Commonly referred to as the DMV).
We offer a mix of humor, introspective conversation, and a safe space for the people we interview to really dive deep into the person behind the art. On top of that, I am the sole wrestling fan among us haha. Nic handles all of the technical sides of the podcast as far as editing audio and visual, I handle the booking of our guests and some social media across FB and Twitter.”
Keep your finger on the pulse of your field. One thing that is important about thriving in the digital space is finding an audience and community. There are billions of people online that you need to find that will be dedicated and engaged in your content. And you also have to be able to provide the information they seek. This means you have to always have your finger on the pulse. For example, once I realized I wanted to start a wrestling podcast, I listened to the most popular wrestling podcast that was out at the time. I also consumed all of the wrestling I could and followed other fan groups and communities. Soon we became the go-to place for women’s wrestling news, and opinions.
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Wednesday, July 14, 2021
Welcome back to Words with P.R.! This is such an interesting time in my life. Grateful to have this as an outlet.
This edition is inspired by tennis player Naomi Osaka’s choice to take a break from tennis to take care of her mental health. I think it is important to motivate my readers to opt to swim and not sink, but it is also important to emphasize that when feeling you are going to sink… it is okay to not be okay. It is okay to reach out for help.
Huge thanks to the support that the last edition has gotten, where I talk about my journey towards self-love, acceptance, and body image.
Birdiebee is a brand that I have supported for a couple of years now. And at first, it was just because it was WWE Hall of Famers Nikki and Brie Bella’s clothing line. But once I started to purchase clothing, I loved the fit, fabrics, and designs. The biggest thing for me, though, was how inclusive the pieces are for all body types. I shared my story about it in the 4th edition of Words with P.R., but it really is life-changing when you can feel confident in your own skin. So far I have purchased dresses, activewear, t-shirts, and sweaters. And I recommend it all. You can use code BBAMBASSADOR20 to save site-wide at this link.
SHOUTOUT TO 400 YEARS OF INEQUALITY
I want to share immersive multimedia projects from the University of Orange educating the public on 400 Years of Inequality aka Juneteenth:
A Call Answered: Observing History -- Reclaiming the Future + People's Pathway to Equality
A Call Answered spotlights the change-inspiring work of 5 community-based 400 Years “observances”, events unearthing and acknowledging America’s timeline of inequality, and setting the stage for a new century of recovery.
Art Direction, Media & Digital Content: Gahlia Eden
Creative Producer, Media & Digital Content: Aubrey Murdock
Creative Direction, Marketing Strategy: Stephanie Leone
Editorial Direction, Marketing Strategy: Ricky Tucker
Creative Team: Timothy Nottage, Jacqueline Castaneda, Molly Kaufman, Robert Sember
People's Pathway to Equity provides multimedia activities and the key concepts most critical to understanding and dismantling the ecology of inequality in your community. Across four chapters, you’ll explore the many insights gathered by the 400 Years of Inequality coalition over five years of learning and organizing together, introducing you to people from a range of places who have boldly answered the call for equality, and helping you embark on your own pathway to equity.
Art Direction: Aubrey Murdock
Creative Producer: Timothy Nottage
Creative Team: Aditi Nair, Jacqueline Castaneda, Timothy Nottage
Media + Digital Content: Gahlia Eden
Editorial Direction: Ricky Tucker
Marketing Strategy: Stephanie Leone
I had the chance to talk to some of the amazing team involved in the creation of these amazing educational experiences:
"The website was inspired by the covid-19 shutdown... Aubrey Murdock, Head of School at University of Orange, which was one of the founding partner organizations of 400 Years introduced me to this work. I invited local photographers and videographers to join me in attending and documenting observances." — Gahlia Eden
"I’d want folks to walk away from A Call Answered... with an impressionistic view of the hard work, love, and thoughtful activism it takes to acknowledge everything we’ve been through in this country—and that’s just an acknowledgement. Then comes the hard work of rebuilding, recovering. Our coalition and these websites can be a template for how communities can honor their own historical context—and recovery collectively. The Peoples Pathway site in particular maps out the tools for them to get started." — Ricky Tucker
CHECK IT OUT HERE: 400YEARSOFINEQUALITY.ORG
Consistency is key
When I wanted to start a podcast, I did as much research as I could about what makes these successful. Having the right equipment, topics, and the audience is important. But the number one note I saw everywhere was BE CONSISTENT. This is how you earn dedicated listeners/viewers. You have to be consistent on every aspect of your brand. This means your brand identity, release schedule, social media marketing, everything. Your fans will not even realize how much they are getting used to your content and will engage with it. Most successful podcasts and YouTube channels don’t have the best quality, but their success comes from being consistent.
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Thursday, June 24, 2021
Real talk time.
When I was really young, I wanted to be a model.
But I was too short, too black, and too fat.
I have always felt self-conscious about the way I look. All of my “flaws” stuck out to me growing up: my gap-toothed smile, acne that has followed me into adulthood, and my outie belly button.
My face and body were not perfect and it would weigh on me. I have four sisters and our looks were always compared. I’m a twin, but most of my sisters have the same features from our mom’s side, and me — from my Dad’s side. We are all beautiful inside and out but these things can really get into your head and cause insecurities.
So at a very young age, I gave up my dream of being a model but always loved style and fashion. I had an unhealthy obsession with the Victoria Secret Angels, and fashion editorials in magazines. I resigned to being an aspiring stylist, as I thought with my look that is the closest I could get to being in the fashion industry.
I thank God that I grew up during the time that I did though. Body image and inclusivity have gotten better since my day, but I couldn’t imagine growing up with Instagram. As much as I use social media, just like everyone there are times where it legit scares me.
The unattainable body images of "influencers" and the idea of perpetuating this wealthy perfect life can be so intimidating. And the scary part is, we are all trying to emulate an image that is simply not real. Even the Kardashians use apps to edit their photos. I can’t even imagine young people living through these expectations, on top of cyberbullying.
However, it was through social media that I gained my own self-confidence and acceptance. Thanks to the support of my online community (mostly my podcast Those Wrestling Girls, and other wrestling fans), friends, and family, I have just been putting myself out there.
During the pandemic, I bought a ring light, and since I was home more and had time I would just take photos of myself in my favorite wrestling t-shirts. The feedback was unbelievably positive.
So for the very first time, my twin sister Letty encouraged me to buy a bikini. In all 31 years of my life, I have never once felt comfortable wearing one. But we were going to Vegas and if there is any place to just fucking go for it, it’s Vegas. And once again the feedback was incredible. I almost cried because this was a moment where I came to accept my body in ways I never have.
I don’t have flawless skin, a flat tummy, or an hourglass figure, and THAT IS OKAY. I can imagine this being refreshing as everyone on Instagram tends to look like clones of each other.
My journey into self-acceptance actually helped me get my most recent brand ambassador gig with Birdiebee, founded by the Bella Twins. These two wrestlers and businesswomen have inspired me to feel comfortable in my own skin and to own my imperfections.
My honesty about not having the perfect body but still OWNING IT is the story of the brand and something I will always connect to. I am grateful that there are no “real models” on their website, including me!
As I move more into the role of an “influencer” as a podcast host, and with brand partnerships with two clothing brands, the notion that I will now have to put myself out there on social media for “work” is daunting.
Will that insecure little girl come back as my followers grow and lead me into a dark place? Only time will tell, but for now, I will continue to utilize social media features: mute, block, and comment disabling.
Support my new partnership with Birdiebee, by buying really cool tees, cropped sweatshirts, activewear, and more with inspiring messages. You can use my affiliate link here, and follow me on Instagram for special coupon codes like QUEENPR15!
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Friday, June 18, 2021
What is the saying? You make plans and God laughs? I have been coming to terms with this for years. I’ve learned: don’t take it personally. You’re not “doing life wrong.” I’ve realized that the ups, downs, uncertainty, and mistakes we will all ultimately make, are just... life. When I started to take my struggle with anxiety and depression seriously I made a vow not to let it ruin my life. I ask myself: are you going to swim or sink?* As hard as it is, I always choose to swim. And this is only possible with the love and support of my friends, family, and the continued pursuit towards living a full life.
I recently chose to swim:
My twin sister Letty and I had been planning a trip to Las Vegas for Memorial Day weekend. For the first time, I was going away, paid vacation days, money in my savings account, and ahead on rent. Proud adult moment. And then, two weeks before the trip I get a severe toothache. And a very long and uninteresting story short, I had to get a tooth extracted. Booooo.
I am now depressed during the week leading up to this fun trip. I hate the dentist, I hate dealing with medical shit, I had to stop eating and enjoying my vices. And of course, my shitty insurance didn’t cover everything so I had to spend all of the money in my savings account that I was so proud of. I was very close to canceling the trip but didn’t want to let my sister and friend down. Glad I didn’t just because it was not the perfect trip I had in mind, doesn’t mean I should sink and not go.
So I swam and went to Vegas anyway. Yeah, I couldn’t eat real food, or smoke legalized weed, but so what? I went and it was fucking awesome. I actually stayed offline from work and the podcast to truly escape and have a good time. We met some of the coolest people (other black travelers) and made unforgettable memories.
My Las Vegas recommendations are the SAHARA Hotel, ReLeaf Weed Dispensary (my sister loved it), and definitely walking the strip. And I can not stress enough, even my melanin queens and kings WEAR FUCKING SUNSCREEN! So I hope this inspires you to push through even when things do not go as planned. While in Vegas, missing teeth and all, I rediscovered a piece of myself and learned that just because something isn’t perfect doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. Literally, nothing in life will go completely as planned. And that is perfectly okay.
I went to high school with Whitney, and she was one of my best friends. We shared a love and respect for each other I still feel ‘til this day. She was always a great writer and could honestly do anything she set her mind to (as corny as that sounds).
In her words, “Whitney Chanel Clark is a stand up comedian in New York City pushing the boundaries of comedy in what's now a politically correct world. I’d say Whitney Chanel is the entertainer and Clark is the business woman. All together, it’s the total package”.
In the last few years I have watched her try her hand at comedy, and go on to be the leader of Clark House Comedy, as well as a mentor for queer comedians. When I asked her about those boundaries in comedy she has pushed she said, “My brand of comedy impacts the LGBTQIA+ community by encouraging the more aggressive/dominant women to embrace their femininity. I’m that old school gay, don’t ask don’t tell gay, I think it’s fine to dress like a man and not want to turn into one. My brand of comedy is about making regular gay cool again.”
She has weekly shows around the country and has been featured on Bravo, VH1, and BuzzFeed.
When building your social media presence, no matter that platform: INTERACT AND ENGAGE WITH EVERYTHING. I think something that people forget when it comes to social media is that everyone on it are real people. Actual humans who are taking their time to engage with your platform. Acknowledge them. It is not about the follower count — in my opinion that is important — it's the amount of real (not bots) humans that react to your content.
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Saturday, May 1, 2021
WELCOME BACK!
I am back for the 2nd edition, and guess what? It will only get better! I have gotten such amazing feedback, and am excited to keep going.
This edition is dedicated to the memory of DMX. I grew up listening to his music and his tragic story always had an effect on me, and I always prayed that he would eventually overcome his demons. We love you X, thank you for what you brought to the world. He was such a talented artist who touched many.
And congratulations to the University of Orange and HUUB for getting the grant for the Ben Jones Community Garden.
Welcome back to Words with PR! Powered by Jersey Indie.
Words with PR is a bi-monthly lifestyle blog where I share a short interview, recommendations, marketing tips, and everything in between!
Some of you may already know Krista B. She is my co host for our women’s wrestling podcast Those Wrestling Girls. But like myself, she has a lot more going on than that. I met Krista when we were both writing for and was featured on a bloggers panel.
We soon found out we both loved wrestling, and the rest was history. She is also a writer, video producer, media specialist at Hot 97, and so much more.
She owns the brand Unapologetically Eclectic (UE) “a website created as an outlet to let readers know who I am and things that I love. It includes news and entertainment from all aspects and genres as well as interviews from people from all walks of life.” says Krista.
Earlier this month, Krista hosted the very first event powered by UE. A female driven brunch and panel called, “Take Up Your Space, Sis”.
The brunch event was “inspired by all of the dope women that I know who are really taking up their spaces without being afraid to do so.”
The phrase ‘taking up space’ means commanding the metaphorical room you are in and being unapologetic about the value you are bringing to the table. A powerful message, and one that black women are taking seriously.
“The brunch was amazing. It was very informative and inspiring to everyone who attended.” says Krista B. She hosted a panel of women featuring brand manager Asia Golden and Avery Watson who works as an entrepreneur in public relations. The two women spoke on what it is commanding spaces in your respective fields, what advice they would give to others who are trying to make it and what motivates them to keep going.
Krista B. is known for living unapologetically and always supporting Black women. In addition to UE she is a media specialist at Hot 97. She often writes about black culture and even the Black Girl Magic in WWE.
How she describes herself: “I am a very eclectic person. I try to be real and honest not only to other people but also to myself. I’m passionate about what I do and I wear many hats. I am a journalist, a podcast host, producer, and so much more.”
Check out the video recap from the “Take Up Your Space, Sis” brunch and pictures. Also follow Unapologetically Eclectic!
Staycations!
I have had reasons in the past to take Staycations, booking a hotel room in New York City or New Jersey and getting away for a couple days.
I sort of abandoned them once I moved back into my own apartment in 2019, but due to the pandemic and new people in my life, Staycations have returned.
Not sure what anyone’s budget is, but I do know that the quarantine has not been easy on any of us. Some of us were forced to stay home with family,or people they normally would not have but had to comply with government regulations.
And let’s just face it, after a while you need to just get away. New scenery, walls, and just waking up in a room that is not the same room you have grown used to over the past year. So I say, plan ahead in the next three months, the sooner ahead you book a hotel room, (the cheaper it is).
It can be in your same city to a nearby city to cut transportation costs, and just spend a night or two away. I promise, you will not regret it. Just make sure that you and the hotel are practicing all the right protocols to protect guests from COVID.
The WeWork Story!
I am obsessed with the rise and fall stories of business and industries. And one story has caught my attention over the past few months and that is the extraordinary tale of the co-working company WeWork and its founder Adam Newman.
My fascination with this story is layered, and has a lot more to do than just my love of business stories. I worked at a startup and very close to its founder for two years. And it was one of the most bizarre experiences I have ever been a part of.
I could not help but watch the recent Hulu documentary, and feel triggered by a few things. One, is knowing the feeling of working at a growing company and believing the hype and the kool aid. Believing that you are being underpaid to work overtime hours for this shared goal. And us all reaching that goal meant having equity and making millions of dollars.
Needless to say, I did not make millions, and I am not sure what ended up happening to that company. But the story of the founder Adam Newman, his wife, the blank check given to Newman from one of the prominent investors in the world, the roller coaster that was WeWork’s rise and fall is one you just have to watch.
Streaming from Hulu, and let me know if you want me to write about my experience working at a wellness start up company.
I read somewhere that it is possible for people’s personality to change after being in quarantine.
I found that interesting and it caused me to reflect.
Just like everyone in the world the pandemic was not easy one me.
However, it did put me in a position to grow as a person, which in turn grew the brands that I work with.
Being a podcaster, and having an online presence is important. The more you put yourself out there, usually the greater the return.
Most people don’t know that I am actually a shy and introverted person, so sometimes believe it or not, this is not easy for me.
I remember how nervous I would get before we recorded every episode, or how terrifying it was to go live on social media.
When everything closed down here in New York City, including our podcast studio, it forced us to find new ways to record and engage our audience.
During last summer the ‘don't rush’ challenge went viral, which saw women look bad, and then are thrown a makeup brush and their look turns glamorous.
A lot of these viral challenges happened in 2020 because people were bored at home with not much to do.
The one that caught my eye was one that was done by a group of female wrestling influencers, and suddenly I got FOMO.
That is when I realized, I need to put myself out there more. I already have people who listen to the podcast and support me,
Get out of your comfort zone...learned during quarantine
Sometimes social media can be toxic but sometimes it can connect you to some amazing people. One of those people is Shanitra, who is a women’s wrestling fan but also a basketball coach who enjoys basketball.
She is currently a writer/reporter for Queen Ballers. When talking to Shanitra about her new gig.
Queen Ballers is “a club founded to grow the love for lady hoopers and invested in lifting up women, by giving our queens the spotlight they deserve.”
Her and team over at QB are preparing to create tons of content as they join WNBA in celebrating the organization’s 25th anniversary. “I look forward to writing more articles about WNBA players and providing information about them on and off the court. Basketball is not all they do!”
Similar to my brand Those Wrestling Girls, QB is also “a platform to showcase female athletes” and it is “very important because for some reason the media does not feel that women athletes generate any revenue and no one cares about female athletes.” says Shanitra.
She went on to talk about her own background with basketball, “My history with basketball runs deep since I was a kid, I would play with my older cousins and that is when I fell in love.” She
played the sport in middle school, high school, and college. She became a coach after abandoning her dream of being in the WNBA.
Say hi to Shanitra on Twitter and make sure you check out the Queen Ballers website.
Hashtags! I can not think of an easier way to market yourself and your brand on social media. I can not even begin to tell you how much growth my partner and I have seen using them. It is a way to get people out there who are searching for what your brand offers to find you.
I suggest you use 5-10 relevant hashtags. Everything from super general, all the way to specific words. Put the block of hashtags in the comments on Instagram, or underneath the text on Twitter.
Look on TWG Instagram for an example:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CNgXQk7pu6d/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Stay tuned for the next edition of Words with P.R. powered by Jersey Indie!
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By Patricia Rogers | Posted Friday, April 2, 2021
Hi! Welcome to my blog
Hello! You may remember me as Valley Girl NJ or the Zine Editor from Orange, NJ. I used to run a blog called Masconsumpion (ran from 2012-2017), and throw cool events in the Valley Arts District. I had fun living and working in Orange. I got to meet and interview artists, musicians, community leaders, and recap art and music shows, political debates, and so much more.
Now, I go by Queen P.R. and am back home in New York City. I am working as a content creator, brand marketing manager, and podcaster. I have learned a lot, and want to share my lessons (learned from mistakes) with you all. So I hope you can come along for this ride twice a month!
Powered by Jersey Indie, I will share Words with PR, a bi-monthly lifestyle blog where I share a short interview, recommendations, marketing tips, and everything in between!
MEET CAROL PADBERG
I was connected to Carol via Molly Rose Kaufman, my friend and the Provost & Program Director at the University of Orange. I was excited to talk to the woman who led the Lunch and Learn workshop titled, “A Mushroom Walks into a Bar...”. I mean, can you think of a more classic joke? And Carol is about all things mushrooms! (Her favorite being the oyster mushroom).
For the University of Orange’s 2021 Jan Term, Carol taught a workshop on how much mushrooms can teach us, answering questions like: What can we learn from mushrooms about undoing toxic individualism and affecting regenerative social change?
For the Lunch and Learn seminar, Padberg spoke about how to weave mushrooms, and also what it can teach us about radical world changes, urban neighborhoods, and more. It was inspired by a graduate program, NOMAD MFA, she designed herself. This was interesting to me because you tend to think about college programs as already established, but this was something new!
I wanted to learn all about the NOMAD MFA program, because to me it felt like one that filled a void. It combined art, creativity, and ecology. And as someone who did community organizing through art & creativity, I was all ears..
The relatively new graduate program offered by the University of Hartford, was inspired by an art project by Padberg, who is also an interdisciplinary visual artist. A few years ago Carol created a 1,000 square foot quilt made of compost, and the fascination of the life and connection that happened to the quilt is what made Padberg consider mushrooms. She realized she could teach art, and ecology, by building creative experiences. The guiding philosophy behind the NOMAD graduate program is “one of connection.”
When speaking with Carol, who is one of the loveliest women I have had the pleasure to speak to, she was able to inform me on mushrooms and climate collapse, regeneration, and more. The more Carol and I spoke, the more I realized just how needed her program was. I also could not help but think about how glad I was that she was able to meet and work with the wonderful folks over at the University of Orange.
The University of Orange is a free people’s university where the learning doesn’t end. I have had the pleasure of graduating twice, and even taught a blogging workshop. Founded in 2007, The University of Orange is a community organization and free people’s urbanism school that builds collective capacity for people to create more equitable cities. You can teach a class as well as take a class and it is open to all people, you can graduate more than once.
My friend, artist, and U of O’s Head of School and lead designer Aubrey Murdock was one of Carol’s students in the NOMAD MFA program. She says about the program, “I had an inkling that I wanted to devote more energy to my individual creative practice, and to understand my work with U of O as a type of socially engaged art practice. I was not actively looking at MFA programs, but came across an article about NOMAD MFA. What drew me in was an attention to human ecology — the ways that social, cultural and technological systems are inextricably linked with landscapes, food systems and watersheds.”
Aubrey’s interest in the program was something Carol and I talked about, how it is important for artists doing community work to understand systems, and how to come into one with care. “I was interested if the program really embraced a critical analysis around compounding issues like structural racism, environmental inequity and the linkages between capitalism and ecological crisis,” says Murdock.
Carol’s ”conviction around why she started the program and her transparency around some of the difficulties of navigating these ideals within an institution like a university” is what sold Aubrey, and the same for me as well. In addition to being a wonderful person, Carol is smart, kind, real, and funny. In other words just the right person we need to build a better future. “Collectively [Carol] brings cohorts of interdisciplinary artists into conversation around regenerative culture, and what is ours to do in this critical moment.”
Also, Carol was nice enough to share an amazing mushroom tea and risotto recipe. Tag us on the @wordswithpr social media for the recipe. ;)
Get to know Carol Padberg more by checking out her website.
Want to learn more about the NOMAD MFA graduate program click here.
Watch and learn from her “A Mushroom Walks into a Bar...” Jan term Lunch & Learn workshop here.
Learn more about the University of Orange here.
QUEEN P.R.’S RECOMMENDS...
My Early AM Self-love routine
I learned back in 2017 that exercise was the best way to help with my anxiety and depression. So, I began doing what I call my “self love” journey every morning starting at 5:00 AM. This time of the day is so quiet and peaceful. Great for clarity and self-reflection.
For my Self Love routine, I pray, Thank God for waking me up, stretch, exercise, meditate, jump in a hot shower, and start my day. I can not express enough what this has done for my energy and focus levels (gave up coffee months ago!), clarity, and anxiety. I understand everyone is not a morning person, so whenever you can squeeze in some self care, do it!
Movo Podcast mic
So for those who don’t know, I am the co-host of Those Wrestling Girls podcast. My co-host Krista B. and I started back in 2018, and were lucky enough to be able to record in a professional studio. All of this changed when the pandemic hit (we don’t feel comfortable recording there yet), so we were forced to make it work from home. Thanks to a friend, we have found a fun way to record via Stream Yard, which has helped us stream live from our social media channels like YouTube, and our Facebook Discussion group. Recording from home meant that I needed to get actual professional equipment to help with quality. So as a birthday gift, I got a MOVO mic that I highly recommend. The set up was easy, the sound quality is amazing (especially during live shows), the instructions were easy to follow as well. So to all my podcasters out there, the MOVO computer USB mic is TOTALLY WORTH IT.
I HAVE LEARNED THAT...
Always reach out to your friends. This first edition of Words with P.R. is dedicated to the loving memory of one of my best college friends Natalia Cordova. She sadly passed away this month. Her death has been super hard on me because we grew distant over the past few years. I did not get a chance to reminisce with her on our college memories, or tell her how much meant to me and how much she impacted my life. So I urge you all: LOVE ON YOUR LOVED ONES. Life is short. You never know when it is going to be too late. A random text or DM saying, “Hi I am thinking of you and I love” you does the trick.
SHOUTOUT TO...
Breaking Through Glass Ceilings with Brian H. Waters
Anyone that knows me, knows that I am a workaholic. And I am very hard on myself. There are very few times when I take a step back and reflect and be proud of myself. Well, I was able to finally do that on Brian H. Water’s podcast Breaking Through Glass Ceilings, where he interviews people that have been successful in media. Check out my episode here.
I was able to chat with Brian (who is also a wrestling content creator) about what inspired Breaking through Glass Ceiling:
“Producing this podcast gives me fulfillment because, in a day and age where we are disconnected and only talk to our friends through text and tweets, the time I spend talking to them while recording this show allows me to have a raw and authentic conversation about their career. This also allows me to learn more about them and their journey, but also provides listeners with lessons they can use forever. One day I was in Atlanta and as I was talking to my manager about networking, I was reminded how blessed I was to be connected to a wealth of smart people. From there I decided I wanted to share my network with the world.”
Check out Brian’s podcast Breaking Through Glass Ceilings here.
SOCIAL MEDIA/MARKETING TIPS
Building your personal brand: Always be proud of your passion, you never know where it will lead you.
So, I am a shy person and would always hide my extra curricular activities and accomplishments from my classmates and friends growing up. I was easily embarrassed and didn't like attention to myself. But one thing I have learned is the only way to get ahead in life and career is to be proud of who you are, what you do, what you love, and be strong in your convictions. I am a wrestling fan, and have a women’s wrestling podcast, and an abundance of wrestling tees. So I style them for work, which I would have been too afraid to do before, but now I like standing out. Me wearing these shirts have been a conversation starter and have led me into rooms I would never have been in before.
For more tips follow Words with P.R. across all socials.
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Opening Exhibit: March 10th, 2017 at Gallery OVO, South Orange, NJ
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Tuesday, March 7, 2017
First off, this was a particularly memorable interview because Peter was a delight to talk to, and he is the first artist I have profiled from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. So far, it has been all about artists in Essex County, and of course my hometown, New York City.
I was able to have an insightful conversation with him, and it reminded me of why I love what I do. And why providing this platform for artists, is so important.
Art is an outlet, a release. It is a way for a person to express themselves through various mediums. But at the same time, there is the provided spotlight into society at that moment. Attitudes, concerns and culture at that time. Buildings are a way to see into history. I cannot help but also think about iconic buildings and architecture that does the same thing.
Peter is an architect and visual artist based in Philly, but this weekend he is exhibiting his work at South Orange, New Jersey’s Gallery OVO. Peter says, “I always was into the drawing side, figuratively and architecturally, design facilities nationally, artwork, and integrated it into the design of a building […] it is graphics, drawing, even poetry, and fashion design has often led the way prior to architecture. I was always fascinated with what was going on in the causal as well as buildings being built.”
We continued to talk about structures in that magnitude like the rise of Bell House in Germany. Painting, and all aspects of design, go hand in hand almost seamlessly. Architecture has brought Peter to the West coast, and since settling in Philly, he has dived back into the arts.
“I always have a sketchbook with me, method as a way to present ideas to clients. We have done a lot of work for the broadcast industry,” says Peter. Talk about being on the pulse.
The more we spoke, I realized that his upcoming show is going to be a turning point in his arts career. I also live in an arts district. We had a lot in common in that sense. Being in the heart of the activity of an arts scene serves as a major inspiration. There are now peers, and people, that you can talk about the arts with, as well as meeting new people and being exposed to new things. I hope to introduce him to our scene, and I can maybe go to Philly.
Friday, March 10, 7-10 p.m. join us as Gallery OVO presents the opening of “Abstract Narratives, the Works of Peter Bloomfield.” Gallery OVO is a fairly new gallery, and a special one I might add. Peter met the curator and owner, Caro Marr, through his wife who worked with Caro in the music industry.
I attended the MetalurJ jewelry show (Dec. 2016), with pieces designed by Jill H. It was a sisters-only event and a lot of fun. I was sent by marketing extraordinaire Gregory Burrus. This is when I saw that Gallery OVO is like no other and goes back to the fundamental reasons why it is special to be a gallery curator.
Caro Marr took a look at Peter Bloomfield’s work and loved it. “She took a look at it and said, ‘this is interesting.’” Peter continued, “She enjoyed the subject matter, color balance, and connection to my background. She saw my interests and understood that. She then came to my studio in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and looked through a bunch of pieces.” The pieces are large scale. I cannot wait to see how Gallery OVO is transformed by the colors of Peter Bloomfield’s pieces
“Abstract Narratives, Works by Peter Bloomfield” opens Friday, March 10. It runs through March 26 at Gallery OVO, located in 26 South Orange Ave, South Orange, New Jersey.
Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services. Visit her blog www.masconsumption.com and keep up with your favorite Valley Girl on social media at @valleygirl_nj (Twitter / Instagram).
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Friday, March 3, 2017
One of the hardest truths I have harshly learned is that sometimes the ones employed to make a difference, aren't the ones genuinely making an effort to do so. We must tread lightly as it appears that we are working with the city, but no we are working for the city.
I am writing this article to share with our Masconsumption readers, all over the state of New Jersey, some of the steps being taken to keep the city of Orange fair, safe, and welcoming; as well as providing safe spaces, and opportunities to build solidarity.
At the post-election potluck, my friend and valued colleague noted how hard it has been dealing with politics, but shared something so positively sweet and true, “I am so glad that I can talk about this in a safe space with people I can call my friends.” And that was so moving because it is something we need to keep doing and always remember -- that we have each other, and think about how lucky we are to have spaces like this to aid the health of the community.
There are many organizations, institutions, and dedicated individuals aimed at providing such resources to the community. Uniting them and sharing has been a great pleasure through the Healthy Orange Coalition. What makes things different now is the change of leadership in this country since the inauguration, as well as the changing laws that are affecting Orange’s diverse community: University of Orange, Adult School at Rosa Park Community School, the HUUB’s Community Listening Fellowship, Laundry Workers Center, Music City’s upcoming music festival aimed at uniting the local music scene, Healthy Orange Coalition, Family Connections, New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, and more.
I want my work as a community listening fellow, and journalist, to continue in that vein. With the other fellows, the HUUB is hosting Building Solidarity potlucks, Don’t Drop the Mic music showcase, Amplifying Youth Voices, Faith+Work conferences and more. The DDTM showcase was a direct response to local youth needing a safe space to express themselves after the spike in senseless violence.
My role specifically, as you know, is to provide a platform with this blog, and to amplify youth voices with Dawan Alford, the community organizer at HANDS, Inc. The idea is to be an additional support system for the community, outside of school, and home.
I also watched as dedicated community leaders passed a resolution to move towards keeping Orange safe and welcoming. In other words, allow Orange to be a sanctuary city for immigrants here in Orange.
Community Organizing is absolutely not new to me. I had the pleasure of working with the great Molly Rose Kaufman at Ironworks, and through the leadership of the ORNG Ink program. But now is different, and I must say we have been working in overdrive to create positive change.
What is also important is moving from the inside out, and bringing the best out of our current residents as opposed to always looking at what the city is lacking and always in need of. The city of Orange is #AlreadyBeautiful.
Out of everything, one important thing that has stuck with me, is not spending so much time talking negatively, or about what we are against. Instead I must ask myself, what am I for?
Thank you, Mindy.
Well, what am I for? I am for being proactive towards change, engaging locals, and motivating and inspiring those I encounter to do the same. I have also been turning my attention to the cultivation of culture and millennials throughout Essex County and greater New Jersey. I want to empower the individuals in our city, and in addition to giving a voice to young people, I am teaching Wordpress and blogging to everyone of all ages. This is a great time for people to begin sharing their experiences and making their stories heard!
Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services. Visit her blog www.masconsumption.com and keep up with your favorite Valley Girl on social media at @valleygirl_nj (Twitter / Instagram).
March 2nd - 5th, West Orange, NJ
Photos from Luna Stage website.
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Thursday, March 2, 2017
It is that time again: a night at the theater.
Luna Stage Theater, to be exact. And for Nikkole Salter’s much anticipated, Indian Head.
Following a warm welcome from Cheryl Katz, Indian Head begins with the roar of a victory from the championship-bound Chipeekany Warriors. But the moment is interrupted when Coach Smith and star football player Brian notice their new scoreboard has been vandalized.
Coach Smith, played by Donavin Dain Scott, is angry as he has held “the tribes” – oh, I mean, the high school football team’s – traditions in the highest regard. He is not superstitious though(his words, not mine). He wants to see the student responsible, of Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape decent, punished.
After her mother, Patricia, played by Carla-Rae, visits with the coach, they come to an agreement. She’d be the team’s equipment manager. Here you can see her trying to reason with both sides for a peaceful resolution.
Rachel, played by Sydney Battle, reluctantly became a part of the football team. At first she started educating Brian, who admitted that he was ignorant when it came to the Native American iconography. But Brian still wanted to use their symbolism to keep up the morale of the football team, and the legacy that Coach Smith passed on to him. But, you know, in a respectful way.
Coach Smith, who happens to be black, knew very little about the iconography / symbols he was using to win football games, and in my opinion lacked sensitivity to the tribe. However, it seemed he didn't care to learn or educate his players. He needed the team and star player to make it to the championship. Even leading him to be dishonest toward his “tribe.” He knew that he needed the family to endorse the team.
Indian Head takes on the controversial mascot name change at Parsippany High School. In 2001 it was changed to the Redhawks, formerly the Redskins. When it comes to the storied relationship between Native Americans and the United States of America, it is clear there has been a huge violation of trust. And when Brian comes out to the field in the sacred headers, we all felt it. The emotion and intensity can be felt in the entire room. And when he says, “felt like it was mine,” I nearly gasped aloud. Not to mention his short change in demeanor after he was attacked.
The daughter, who at first did not want anything to do with him, went the way of education, equating tolerance. Proud of her heritage, she did not want to see it made a mockery of.
Was ignorance the curse of the Indian Head? Because I have to admit, I didn’t know the meaning behind the popular mohawk haircut. Can we fault the coach or Brian for needing something to believe in? Something they felt was bigger than themselves?
Is the lesson that sometimes misunderstandings do happen? And that what is missing is having more compassion, patience, and being open to mutual respect and learning about new cultures?
The other questions Indian Head presented to me was, how much does intent have to do with cultural appropriation? Does sheer love and hope not suffice? Are we allowed to even dismiss what someone holds sacred? Don’t we all need symbols of hope?
I was moved by the cast. I was fully invested in their respective journeys throughout the play. Even if you did not agree with the character at times. There is also the difference between generations when it comes to culture and existing in a different cultural environment, as we saw in the play, with the approaches both Patricia and the daughter took to fight for their tribe’s rights. They each had their own issues when it came to how to represent Indian Head. Most Luna plays have me on an emotional rollercoaster. Sometimes even not being able to contain my laughs, gasps, or random emotion that happens to hit me.
Like past Nikkole Salter plays like Lines in the Dust, we see a portrait of the complexities of race relations in 2017. The conflict of the religion that is American football, with pretty much anything else, was a story for this country in 2017. I was excited to bring Kionna Ballard, she is 14, she’s family and I cannot imagine the awesome impact these stories can have in her life. Indian Head is relevant, compassionate, and had its funny moments.
“I loved the play. It was so fun. I liked how consistent Rachel’s character was and how determined she was to prove how her culture was no matter what, and how loyal she was to her culture.” - Kionna Ballard, 14
Indian Head was another world premiere, and was commissioned in partnership with the NJPAC Stage Exchange, a program of the N.J. Performing Arts Center. Nikkole Salter, author of Lines in the Dust and Carnaval was also featured in the Spring 2014 issue of Masconsumption zine.
It was truly a pleasure. Until next time, Luna Stage.
Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services. Visit her blog www.masconsumption.com and keep up with your favorite Valley Girl on social media at @valleygirl_nj (Twitter / Instagram).
"My work is abstraction. Rather than presenting a factual reality, I use color, form and texture to create a sense of place or an image that allows the viewer to make their own personal associations." -- Aida Jones, artist
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Tuesday, February 28, 2017
I love prints, and I love colors. And because of my limited painting ability, most of my work looks abstract. When I learned of the upcoming ValleyArts exhibit, The Color of Energy/Energy of Color exhibit, I was intrigued. I was not able to attend the opening at Firehouse Gallery here in New Jersey’s Valley Arts District but caught up with one of the curators and exhibiting artists, Aida Jones.
"[W]e had an excellent turn out, over 155 people in attendance. People had a chance to chat with artists individually about their work and process." -- Aida Jones, artist
Aida Jones: Fantastic – we had an excellent turn out, over 155 people in attendance. People had a chance to chat with artists individually about their work and process. We are so pleased and want to thank everyone who came out to the opening! And if you missed it, you can book an private viewing.
An exhibition at the ValleyArt Firehouse Gallery featuring over 60 works by 24 artists. Co-curated by Aida Jones and Mikel Frank, The Color of Energy; Energy of Color, an exhibition of expressive abstraction focuses on highly expressive paintings that represent energy and vitality through a variety of artistic techniques.
I met Mikel Frank when we both sat on the board of directors of 1978 Art Center in Maplewood. While on the board, my husband [musician Steve Jones] and I produced a monthly event at 1978 called The Arts Café. There were poetry readings, art on the walls, original musical performances and performance art. Mikel came to almost every event we held, and he and I became fast friends. We co-curated a group show of Hoboken artists at 1978. After that success, we decided to work together on an art exhibition that focused on elements we were most passionate about: abstract expression and energy.
The team at ValleyArts are a terrific group of people. Candice Lee, Julie Martini and Jeremy Moss have been great supporters of this exhibit. I really appreciate ValleyArts and Jeremy Moss especially for accepting The Color of Energy proposal and allowing Mikel and I to curate this wonderful exhibit in the Firehouse Gallery space.
Artists, Mikel Frank & Aida Jones
Mikel is a wonderful abstract artist who has exhibited throughout the country. As I mentioned earlier, he served on the executive board of 1978 Maplewood Arts Center for 13 years and in 2015 had a brief stint as co-chair of the Maplewood Arts Council. In 2015, Mikel retired from The Metropolitan Museum of Art where he worked as a Stage Manager since 1985. He now lives in Charlotte, NC.
We wanted to hold an exhibit of energetic works that would give the viewer the freedom to explore the artist’s reality and imagination. Abstraction expressionism does just that.
When a painter puts color and marks on the canvas they are transferring their energy and emotion to us. As viewers, we connect to the energy, thought, and emotion that the painter spills out and gives to us. The idea of expression, or storytelling, is fascinating when we look at abstraction because it’s not always easy to know what the story is about. So, abstract art can pose a challenge to the beholder. It asks us to look at the world — in a new way.
Exhibition artists include: Gerard Amsellem, Mark Basco, Kathy Cantwell, RMCimini, Cat Delett, Dawn DiCicco, John Craig, Thomas Farawell, Katie Fogg, Mikel Frank, Aida Jones, Frantz Lexy, Lara Liquori, Susan Marx, Abigail Morris, Jeremy Moss,Tara O'Leary, Sidhartha Pani, Diana Rivera, Raymond Skibinski, Karen Starrett, Onnie Strother, Guen Sublette and The Visual Passion Duo.
I moved from Hoboken to Maplewood over 10 years ago. When I arrived, I sought out the art scene. Connecting with artists in the area leads you to the Valley Arts district and the team there continues to do some amazing art events.
My mother is an artist and my father, a fine art photographer. I have painted and drawn since I was a child. Art has always been part of my life.
I was born in the Bronx and have lived in the NY Metro area my whole life. I studied at the Art Students League in NYC and the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. I have worked as teacher of adult painting and as Marketing and Artistic Director for the Monroe Center for the Arts, in Hoboken, NJ for 8 years. I’ve acted as curator, board member, art director and consultant on many arts programs in the state of NJ. My work has been on exhibit in a variety of NY and NJ galleries, art shows and events.
I am starting a new series and will be exhibiting throughout the year.
My work is abstraction. Rather than presenting a factual reality, I use color, form and texture to create a sense of place or an image that allows the viewer to make their own personal associations. I enjoy gilding the work in copper and gold leaf to add a reflective quality and adding multiple layers of paint, plaster and paste to give the piece depth and dimension.
I want people to look at the piece and feel something. Maybe it’s curiosity; the feeling of wanting to look at it and see or know more. Or a sense of calm that says – this art makes me feel at home or reminds of something familiar. I get intrigued when someone says, “I love this piece - I just want to keep looking at it to figure it out.” I want people to feel energy, connection and joy from my art.
On Sunday, February 26 celebrate the closing of this abstract exhibit co-curated by Aida Jones and Mikel Frank - and the last ValleyArts show in the Firehouse Gallery - with music, wine, and friends. Some art will be offered at a discount during this event.
~
View Work Aida Jones work here: www.aidajones.com
Folks can call 862-252-7035 to schedule a time to see the exhibition or to purchase a piece from the Color of Energy/Energy of Color.
Go here to view work: https://sites.google.com/site/colorofenergyexhibit/details
Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services. Visit her blog www.masconsumption.com and keep up with your favorite Valley Girl on social media at @valleygirl_nj (Twitter / Instagram).
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Wednesday, February 8, 2017
Hip-Hop Summer Series. Portrait of a Lady Runway show. Cupcakes & Champagne Brunch.
There have been many events produced by Masconsumption Media. All adding a spark of energy, and history of New Jersey’s Valley Arts District.
Sunday, January 29, 2017, we continued in that vein with what has become the brand’s signature event, The Valley Gala. The 3rd installment of the “party of the year” came at a time where the community was in the most unique space it has ever been.
Hat City Kitchen [has been] the venue for the Valley Gala since its inception, with initial support by the former general manager, Mark Lyons. Someone who understood the culture. The food was prepared by Chef Jeff Dorch, also known as Dragon of the West 89. He has always been a long time collaborator. The menu included bacon wrapped and chocolate mousse balls. There were drink specials and of course tunes by DJ Anton3z.
The highlight was being able to provide guests with a takeaway experience. Much to my delight, I was able to team up with good friend and collaborator, Gregory Burrus. He co-sponsored Inside Out Booth photo-booth service.
“Enjoyed Masconsumption Media’s Valley Gala 2017 tremendously. Had a great time meeting and greeting all the folks that showed up from the local community and beyond that came to mix, mingle and support the Masconsumption Media Event. Folks truly enjoyed themselves, especially the great service provided by the Hat City Kitchen staff, the extremely delectable gourmet food provided by Chef Jeff Dorch and the tremendous fun folks had within the Open-Air Photobooth. As the official event photographer, it was enormous fun to mingle throughout the event, capture folks enjoying themselves and converse and catch up with many not seen since the Valley Gala 2016. I personally can’t wait and am looking forward to Valley Gala2018.” – Gregory Burrus
Allowing guests a takeaway, Inside Out Booth provided photographers, props, backdrops and printouts. I would recommend for any functions and celebration! They were patient and worked with us.
Another special highlight was Jersey Indie’s founder, and my editor, Sonia Schnee bringing her wonderful mother. This was a huge moment for me, and this phase of the Masconsumption brand. My first paid writing gig was for Jersey Indie back in 2016, and the first article I submitted was the event recap of the 2nd annual Valley Gala. My brand’s signature event! I love moments coming full circle. This is what life is all about.
“What a beautiful event! From the moment I walked in, I could tell so much love and passion was put into planning this. Tons of fun. Great music, food, and drinks. (Also, it was a chance to get dressed up and catch everyone’s style!) For someone who’s not from the Valley area, it was a perfect introduction to a vibrant and creative community. Everyone at the event was so outgoing and welcoming that I immediately felt right at home. Check out the next Valley Gala!! It’s a great opportunity to meet the Valley’s creative and talented change-makers and be a part of this awesome scene!” - Sonia Schnee, Jersey Indie founder
This event has always been about nurturing relationships in the community. This could not ring truer than with my professional relationship with DJ Anton3z. We plan to do so much more things in the future. He’s been my go-to DJ for a couple of years now and for multiple events. He is a nice guy, professional, and ambitious. My kind of guy. If you are looking for D.J., feel free to contact me for more information.
[The] 3rd time was planned to be a charm, but there were lots more attendees last year in 2016. This event is going to continue to evolve with the neighborhood, community, and relationships within our network.
Many people have boycotted the establishment due to a series of unfortunate events, and I can not blame them. Did it affect the 3rd Annual Valley Gala? Yes. And that is okay. I made what I felt was a good business decision, at the end of the day was does not kill us, makes us stronger. I can not wait to switch up the venue in the future. I hope to do more all around Essex County, and New York City. The brand will now grow bigger than just N.J’s Valley Arts District and expand accordingly.
Now that the event has come and gone, I am ready for a brighter, less drama-filled future. Things are looking great for 2017. There is a lot going on and projects in the works within the community. You can stay up to date on all of the cool, by signing up for our newsletter, THE SCENE.
I welcome you on the journey of Masconsumption 2.0. Thank you to all for your continued support, and readership.
Special thanks to Gregory Burrus, Shannon Jeff Dorch, Hat City Kitchen, Inside Out Booth, Patrick Hilaire, Mike Malbrough, Mike Griot and Brittany Craig and Nia Williams.
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Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services. Visit her blog www.masconsumption.com and keep up with your favorite Valley Girl on social media at @valleygirl_nj (Twitter / Instagram).
!["[W]hen you love what you do, when you’re surrounded by people who love you, when you treat people with love… that’s the shit." - SaKarra Fite, KREYE](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/561c2914e4b090a32cbb0b9c/1484924884454-YDWJNKMEPBG1SNZ6BYCP/image-asset.jpeg)
"[W]hen you love what you do, when you’re surrounded by people who love you, when you treat people with love… that’s the shit." - SaKarra Fite, KREYE
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Friday, January 20, 2017
SaKarra Fite: Well, the business name is just KREYE, and Kreye is a "safe haven" almost for black culture – a variety of programs and events that encourage and empower members of the black community and those who are curious about our rich culture.
I want Kreye to be a tool. When I think about my community, I wish we had more togetherness. I wish we had economic stability, support, and education, etc. I envision Kreye creating avenues that fill those voids.
We have collaborated with several organizations to do open mic nights, volunteer work to clean up the city of Newark, speed dating, youth summits. Independently, Kreye hosted a summer program teaching children art and culture. We used our social media to post daily "black facts," something we definitely want to get back to. I’m sure I’m forgetting a few but those are at the top of my head.
Know what you stand for. Be open to suggestions and critique but don’t compromise your core values. Also, love is the shit!!! Like, no lie. It’s cheesy to say love conquers all but when you love what you do, when you’re surrounded by people who love you, when you treat people with love… that’s the shit. (Excuse my French.)
"Know what you stand for. Be open to suggestions and critique but don’t compromise your core values." - SaKarra Fite, KREYE
I met Darnell in May just a few months before my first event. I was just gonna rent his space, but he was so excited by the vibe and impressed by the turnout that he approached me about doing weekly open mics. Well, since then we've really formed a great friendship. I support him, he supports me. It’s definitely made a difference knowing that there is someone in your corner always willing to work with you, who shares your vision.
I’m going to say my grandmothers, both who have passed away. They weren’t big name people but for those who knew them, they had impact in their lives. They were helpful and loving but sharp tongued and stern, and that’s kind of me.
King Kittee, Bey Arts Gallery, R.E.A.L Music, Empowering Queens… all keep in touch. Those are my friends and family. I trust them. I believe in them. They speak my language. They know my temperament. They are all outrageously talented and their potential is sick, and I love working with some healthy competition. We motivate each other.
I’m inspired by ridiculous stuff like springtime, children’s laughter, the smell of cologne. Taking a ride on the bus will make me want to develop a free inner city shuttle day. Like, nature, human interaction, my own isolation, my son's funny ass questions and curiosity about everything really inspires me.
Girl… there is no better thing to do than to just BE. Finding your center is so important. Mediation is like hitting a refresh button on your webpage. Clearing your head, talking to your God, talking to the universe. It really helps to make sense of this over-saturated life we live.
I plan on bringing the camp back for another year. We are working on a college tour, some top secret programs lol and of course more collaborations with different organizations. The big thing is networking!
Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services. Visit her blog www.masconsumption.com and keep up with your favorite Valley Girl on social media at @valleygirl_nj (Twitter / Instagram).
"Passion makes everything 10 times better. Our passion for art makes 10 times better art. Stay passionate." - Marco Dorce
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Thursday, January 19, 2017
I remember the moment I met Marco Dorce. It was on the side yard of Ironworks. We easily became friends as he became an artist in residence as well. I noticed that he and I shared the same ambition and tendency to dream big. More than anyone else I know. He is determined, imaginative, talented and overall a good friend over the years. We have collaborated on various projects, and I love working with him.
Marco Dorce: I am just regular guy. I am not from around here. Every single day I want to pick up a camera and be creative. That is my favorite thing to do. I do not do one thing specifically because I like to experience different adventures, on a very regular basis. My role changes pretty often as far as what I do creatively for business.
I love shooting videos, photography, but at the same time I do a lot of other work as far as in this industry. Sometimes I do the editing. Most of the time I do the shooting, pre-production of projects. Business-wise, also, I have experience of putting together projects. Getting the right people together. Sometimes I am in the world of A&R, public relations, artist management, and placement. Getting them in front of the right people. My role has evolved, sometimes even leads me in front of the microphone myself. I guess you can call me a jack-of-all-trades.
It began about 11 years ago in high school. I was doing my last project, I think, for science, about rain forests. We had the choice of how to present the story. So I went ahead, and thought of a creative way was to shoot a short documentary on rain forests. It was like 3 minutes long. This was my first time using video equipment and software. This is when I realized, I like this. This is something I want to do. So I went and bought a better camera. Most times I would be the main star, and then my friends and family. My friends are also a part of it, and I am meeting more and more people who want to shoot with me.
For boys, when I was a kid it was all about the gun toys and remote control cars. Getting a camera made me feel like I had gotten the ultimate gift. I could not stop playing with it, and it went everywhere with me.
I grew up fascinated by movies. In everyday life, I see a movie. That is the only way I can look at it. It becomes complicated sometimes, but at the same time it is simple. That is the beauty of it, no matter what movie you are watching. There is that roller coaster, they gonna take you up, and back down. That feeling you get, I love putting it in videos. I love sharing my view in storytelling.
Most exciting was a pilot for a show I was shooting. I wanted to try to get it on TV and everything. It has been lost, due to a lost hard drive. I was shooting with Jeremy Moss and more local artists. There were tons of action scenes and very gangster-ish scenes. That was so much fun to shoot. But you know, it happens. I always have fun shooting, no matter what. If I am not having fun, it’s not gonna be good.
It has been all about the people that I know. That has made a huge difference. I have always met people that are passionate about what they do. So it rubs off, and I am able to work with them.
A friend of mine introduced me to Ironworks, made huge difference as well. Little did my friend know, I wanted to do way more than make a t-shirt. I was also the president of the Short Films Club at Essex County College, while becoming an artist-in-residence at Ironworks. This allowed me to work with a group of other aspiring artists in all fields. My grades were slipping at the Film Club but my level of experience and productivity was off the charts.
When I learned there was a short film club in Essex County, I learned it was shut down for 3 years, and they needed a president. I excitedly took on the role.
Ironworks is different for everyone that was a part of it. But for me, it was an open studio to the youth, where you could come in, and get practice, learn new skills, meet new people or contribute to instruction. Open to anyone who had the passion to do art, was a part of it.
It was comfortable and open for you to do something. That kind of gave me the opportunity to work out of a free studio. For an artist, that was gold. If you do not have a place to work, it is gonna be tough for you to get anything done. Thanks to Ironworks I was able to meet people to work with, other studios, photographers, etc., all through Ironworks. The studio brought me into a network.
Well, I will give you 2 things. First, you give and you get. You get what you put in. The second is a realization, the ones who have made it are the humble ones. And so, one of the best lessons I have learned is to be humble. At times, when you do forget to be humble, life with remind you. That can suck sometimes. Life teaches you to remain humble, whether you like it or not.
I have seven music videos in production right now. They have been shot, they are being edited. I have begun working with Avalon, who has been helping with cuts. The process for me has become a lot easier. As stressful as it is to have all these projects, I really love it. I am blessed.
YouTube, but I am working on a new website. Now I am taking time to shoot, and working on promotion, and all of that first.
There was this time, when were all coming up with stuff like origin names and stuff. Like those big dreams we had altogether at Ironworks. We were a small family of artists. We have this connection and we always will. Now that Ironworks closed, I have had a lot fun working with Masconsumption Media. That will always stay with me wherever I go. The best part about it, nothing ever changed. You were the first person I called when I got my new camera. I hit you up like, “you want to work?” I can be a millionaire photographer and will still do work for Masconsumption. I feel like I am a part of it because from the beginning, it’s like watching a kid grow. Even if you are not related to them you feel like you are because you are watching it.
Yes. Passion makes everything 10 times better. Our passion for art makes 10 times better art. Stay passionate. The universe seems to always give to those who are humble. Stay humble. If life is an adventure, then we can only advance. Sometimes it’s best to see it as one. Stay adventurous.
Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services.
![Al Gold (left) and Mike Griot (right). "Blues is really about stories about everyday life and how hard it can be [....] It’s like talking and venting to a friend about your problems [...] if you are able to sing it out, it becomes joyous. It i…](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/561c2914e4b090a32cbb0b9c/1484837444361-LRP7BEBU8G3ZLCZETW97/image-asset.jpeg)
Al Gold (left) and Mike Griot (right). "Blues is really about stories about everyday life and how hard it can be [....] It’s like talking and venting to a friend about your problems [...] if you are able to sing it out, it becomes joyous. It is something that we all share. Blues does not have to be negative, it can be just life affirming." - Al Gold
By Patricia Rogers | Posted Thursday, Jan. 19, 2017
I have worked at Hat City Kitchen for the last four years, and I have enjoyed the live music. Sundays were the blues jam – a jam I have always worked. I noticed the impact the music, and the weekly gathering, had on these individuals. It was very special and endearing to watch. This past weekend, Al Gold’s Blues jam took a bigger stage at SOPAC with a first-ever contest – a collaboration with fellow musician, Mike Griot. It was a success! I wanted to make sure I got the scoop from Al himself.
Al Gold: I have gone to many jams before. When I was student in Chicago in the 1970’s, there was a bar around the corner from my apartment on the north side. There was a musician named Homesick James Williamson who had jams on Sundays that I would attend. He’d have his trio and his friends come out, players, listeners, and friends would show up. Maybe just 25 people, but it was a local bar, but he would play these jams, and it became apparent that it was a special local thing for his friends, family, network. I said to myself, this is a special thing. I thought, if I have a chance to do a jam, I would do it just the same way. Long story short, opportunity came in this small place called Hat City Kitchen in New Jersey. I approached then-manager Larry. I asked if I could do a weekly jam and after meeting with Pat Morrissy, we started. It started out as monthly, and people kept coming. It just grew from there. And soon, we began playing bi-weekly. I wanted people to plan to be there.
For seven years with the same band. My house band consists of guitarist Tom Rice, Jerry Cordasco on drums, Billy B3 Baker on keyboard, Mark Pavlica on bass.
I chose the house band because they want to make the jam and the songs sound good. This makes sense to me, so it is not a competition. It’s all about getting together and sharing good music. I love how the talent varies. There are the seasoned musicians, and the ones that only play in their bedroom. We make sure to tell all participants, we just want you to sound good. Musicians have a great experience, and they want to come back. They feel they want to contribute.
My band is the SRK All Stars, most of the guys from the HCK Jam plus one more.
I think the building has a special vibe. Before it was Hat City Kitchen, it was an Italian restaurant. It has always been a cool looking space. When I approached going down Valley Street, I always thought how cool it would be to play there. The way it is shaped, and the good stage makes it sound good. In most places, music is an after thought. It is like forced for extra money. But Hat City was put together with the idea that it would be a restaurant, bar and music venue. So it was constructed specifically for that area. People love to play there because they like the way it sounds. You can hear yourself sing and your instruments on stage.
Blues is really about stories about everyday life and how hard it can be. If you are overwhelmed with pressures, you can really get down on yourself when things are going bad. It’s like talking and venting to a friend about your problems. But if you are able to sing it out, it becomes joyous. It is something that we all share. Blues does not have to be negative, it can be just life affirming. That is what it is about. There are groups of people that come by just to dance. They have things in their lives that are difficult, and they come down and have a turn to get it out and celebrate. People tell me how much it means to them.
I do. As soon as September ends, people are thrilled to be out – and hang out – and this includes the jam. There is something exciting in the air. I love it. They want to be with people. They want their shot at the music. It is special.
Blues jam.
Mike Griot is a good friend of mine. He is always looking for something interesting. Shows with specific themes get a lot of attention, like the tribute shows to Bob Dylan or Howling Wolf. People like having a whole evening with a featured idea. It is something people respond to. He came up with this idea to kind of draw the audience at Hat City Kitchen, SOPAC, Hat City cuisine. Then put it all together, like a contest, with the jammers, and have a jam session on stage. This can be really interesting. It has never been done before, use a jam session as the show itself. Let’s make it a contest, judges are gonna pick people who are doing something special and something to offer. So it is not just the same as the jam. I was like, let’s go with it.
I wanted to make sure the delicate fabric of the jam did not get misused, or the worst thing would be if someone performed at SOPAC and felt embarrassed. We tried to come up with a concept so that participants were prepared.
Thanks to SOPAC, and to Mike, for coming up with something different. There are many blues contests, but it’s more like a battle of the bands. But the way we did it as a jam, made it different and special. And with everyone involved, it was a win-win. You are promoting yourself in a great venue.
Pat Morrissy, former executive director of HANDS, Inc.; Dennis Greunling, a DJ, musician, and considered one of the greatest harp players; one of the more versatile drummers, Lee Finkelstein, with a music career spanning 25 years; Billy Hector, well-known blues musician who also frequents the Hat City Kitchen stage; Bandleader and guitarist, New Yorker Michael Hill; my favorite, Soundguy Ed, the one that make everyone sound good at Hat City Kitchen.
Vin Mott.
He’s a young man in his 20s who is in love with blues. He is inspired, driven and plays quite a bit in a lot of local clubs. Always learning and trying, mentored by a number of local musicians. He’s about to release his first CD. He has a great spirit. He is knowledgeable about the music. He has a great sound. His enthusiasm is contagious. He really deserved to win. He jumped in and controlled dynamics. He deserved to win.
Both my parents were signers and my dad used to sing on the radio. It has come naturally. Music has always been there and available. My friends used to marvel at my parents, at them harmonizing while washing the dishes.
I started as a young person working with legends in Chicago, The James brothers. I had an old mandolin. My first experience was not great. But it ended up going fine, being able to sit in with old timers. I moved back to New Jersey in the late ‘70s. I found that I did not have the same caliber of person to be inspired by. I am a graphic artist, for music promotion. After starting a family I put music on hold. Fast forward to 1990, I moved to West Orange and Dave Stryker lives on my block. Every year, we do a block party. Dave and I play a live band for 25 years now. People on the block come out. When I first met Dave, they asked if there were musicians on the block. We began talking and he asked me, what are you doing? We began playing in the area as “Dust Bowl Rhythm Kings.” He brought me back into music. He changed his name to start a blues band with me. I have not stopped since. I’ve played with Johnny Sasone.
What keeps me focused is doing the jam here.
Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services. Visit her blog www.masconsumption.com and keep up with your favorite Valley Girl on social media at @valleygirl_nj (Twitter / Instagram).
