Feel The "Touch..." For 25% Off (Limited Time Offer!!)

From now until December 14, 2011 at 11:59pm PST you can get my book for 25% OFF!!

The offer is only available if you order on the website for lulu.com (Not Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or any other sites.) Use the promo code BUYMYBOOK305 at check out. The discount is available site wide so any other items you purchase can also be discounted up to $50.00. 

I have an essay in an anthology titled, "Mighty Real: An Anthology of African-American Same Gender Loving Writing" edited by Royce Bryant Smith & Darius Omar Williams that can be purchased on lulu with the same discount.

Royce Bryant Smith

Darius Omar Williams

I also encourage you to join the, "Touch..." fan page  

www.facebook.com/TouchPoemsAndOtherWritings

to keep up to date with any upcoming signings and discounts if you are unable to purchase the book at this time.

The DL Chronicles Kickstarter Campaign Update

Quincy LaNear & Deondray Gossett

 We're a quarter of the way there thanks to your generosity and support!!!  And because of your continued efforts we only have $95,000 more to raise in 41 days.  We're very hopeful that this can be done.

Fans and supporters like you have answered the call, and The Chadwick Journals has been viewed over 12,000 times on youtube IN JUST 5 days!!!  This is proof that we have the numbers and can slide right into home base if we just hone our efforts and continue to spread the word.

Please post the kickstarter link on your Facebook pages, twitter accounts, and any other social media you site you own.  Everyone can do their part in seeing this become a reality.  AND YOU ALL will be backers of something historical!  All of your names and the names of your friends, family, and co-workers will forever be attached to what promises to be a monumental event.  So continue the fight.  Show the networks that we can do this by ourselves.  Show them that our stories are valued and have the audiences to back them.

Episodes of, "The Chadwick Journals" are appearing on line at youtube and other sites. Backers of the project get to view the episodes before they go public. Here's a chance to support independent cinema & well produced work for our community!! If you'd like to donate go you: 

www.kickstarter.com/projects/405469574/the-dl-chronicles-returns-2012

Looking For F. Justin Hall....

If anyone has information on the whereabouts of F. Justin Hall. Last known residence was in Manhattan, NY.

Justin has been at different times involved with organizations and events in the Same Gender Loving Communities of NYC, Los Angeles, & Washington DC/Baltimore areas. Some may know him for his blog called, "The Redd Files". Several friends and family have posted on his facebook wall hoping to get any information on him. He hasn't posted on facebook for a few months so if anyone hears anything please post information to his facebook wall......

Here's A Chance To Support Independent Cinema...Mississippi Damned & DL Chronicles

I have become such a fan and supporter of independent cinema because I find it does a better job of creating work that is not formulaic or has to follow the same patterns as movies produced by Hollywood studios. Film Festivals & Screenings are what I try and support with my money, volunteer time, and in the case of OUTFest/Fusion as a performer at their "Sabor Con Fusion".

Here's your opportunity to support two dynamic projects that I have enjoyed very much.

I can't say enough about the film, "Mississippi Damned"  it's dark, haunting, poignant, and even though the story and themes can seem overwhelming I couldn't take my eyes off of it. The craft that went into the making and performing in this film is some of the best I have seen in many years. I admit I am biased. I love Tina Mabry & Morgan Stiff like family but every time I see their work I have to take a step back and just say, "WOW, y'all did that!!"

From now until "Black Friday" 11/25 they are offering their film on dvd for the price of $9.99 (usually $14.95). That's the price of a regular movie ticket for something you will cherish and be able to watch again & again. It's an investment you will not regret. I PROMISE!

Go to the Mississippi Damned store www.mississippidamned.com/store and enter the promo code "worm" to get the discount. You will also see that posters and other items are also on sale.

Another project I enjoyed is, "The DL Chronicles". I remember first hearing about this project through my involvement with OUTFest and at first I was ambivalent. It came out around the same time as J.L. King's first book which I had taken strong issue with and also an episode of, "Law & Order" that dealt with the topic of the "DL". I was so tired of hearing about the DL that I didn't care what this project was about.

Quincy LeNear and Deondray Gossett quickly changed my mind with their masterful writing, inspired directing, and seamless production. I am a definite fan. Currently they are running a KickStarter campaign to complete Season 2 of the, "DL Chronicles". This is a great chance to get in on the grassroots level of this project and insure that stories that are not being told are left as a legacy. Go to this link for more information and to see how you can contribute www.kickstarter.com/projects/405469574/the-dl-chronicles-returns-2012

My appreciation has even grown since these projects have come out because I have been hustling my own  work. I know how difficult it is to try and promote, create, and produce work. It's great when others help support your efforts. I have met a wonderful actor, writer, activist, and host of Radio OutSpoken in South Africa named Frank Malaba who is the first person on the African continent to get a copy of my book. It's been great having his support and the encouragement of others as well.

"Touch...Poems & Other Writings of Love, Erotica, & Sensuality is available on line at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, as well as Lulu. You can also join the fan page on facebook to keep up with any performances, signings, or discounts www.facebook.com/TouchPoemsAndOtherWritings

The Politics of Homosexuality in Africa-A Talk by Dr. Sylvia Tamale

Monday, November 21
6:00-7:30 PM

 
The Politics of Homosexuality in Africa
A Talk by Dr. Sylvia Tamale

Berman Hall in the Fromm Building, University of San Francisco (Intersection of Golden Gate and Parker Avenues.) Campus map

Using homosexuality as a focus, Dr. Tamale will discuss how political and religious leaders in both Africa and the West instrumentalize sexuality to achieve their political ends, and provide an analysis of the Ugandan Anti-Homosexuality Bill.

About the speaker: Dr. Sylvia Tamale is a renowned African feminist who holds law degrees from Makerere University and Harvard Law School and Ph.D. in Sociology and Feminist Studies from the University of Minnesota.  She is currently dean of the Faculty of Law and Jurisprudence at Makerere University in Uganda and author/editor of several books, including When Hens Begin To Crow: Gender And Parliamentary Politics In Uganda, Homosexuality: Perspectives from Uganda and the recently published groundbreaking volume, African Sexualities: A Reader. 
Co-Sponsors:  Global Fund for Women, Priority Africa Network and the University of San Francisco (including The President’s Advisory Board on the Status of Women, African Studies, Gender and Sexualities Studies, B.A. International Studies, and Sociology.
For more information on obtaining Dr. Tamale's books, contact PriorityAfrica@priorityafrica.org
or visit Pambazuka Press

*** This event is free and open to the public. ***

Celebrate 20 Years of Transcending Boundaries & Restoring Hope With City of Refuge UCC-Bishop Yvette Flunder+Tim'm West In The Bay Area+Feel The, "Touch..." For 20% Off!

Join Bishop Yvette Flunder & City of Refuge UCC As We Celebrate 20 Years Of 

Transcending Boundaries & Restoring Hope 

Theme: One Body

 

City of Refuge United Church of Christ 20th Year Anniversary Celebration

San Francisco, CA -- City of Refuge United Church of Christ, under the leadership of Bishop Yvette A. Flunder will celebrate its 20th Year Anniversary, Friday, November 11th through Sunday, November 13, 2011.

The Church founded in November 1991 by Bishop Flunder and a group of 14 people is a ministry of restoration and reconciliation. Bishop Flunder and the City of Refuge Church Family are intentionally radically inclusive, welcoming all persons regardless of race, color, ancestry, age, gender, and affectional orientation.

Members (past & present) along with friends, family, and supporters of the congregation are invited to join Bishop Flunder and the City of Refuge Church family as they celebrate 20 years of Transcending Boundaries and Restoring Hope. All Anniversary celebration activities and worship services are free and open to the public

Anniversary Celebration Theme: “ONE Body!”

One God and Creator of all, who rules over all, works through all, and is present in all. Everything you are and think and do is permeated with Oneness (Eph. 4:6)

Anniversary Schedule of Events

Thursday, November 10, 2011: "Something Within: Celebrating the Faith and Artistry of African-American Women Hymn and Gospel Pioneers" - an Interactive Lecture/Concert led by Min. Patrisha Gill and Rev. Ann Jefferson
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Event Location: The Doug Adams Gallery at Pacific School of Religion, 1798 Scenic Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709.

Friday, November 11, 2011: Musical Celebration hosted by Gospel Recording Artists, Min. Charlene Moore and Rev. Gene Dennis Viale will include various genres of music and local artists participation.
Host Pastor: Bishop Gordon Humphrey Jr.
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Olivet Institutional Baptist Church, 807 27th Street, Oakland, CA.

Saturday, November 12, 2011: Workshop entitled, “Leadership for the 21st Century: The Cost of the Gospel” - Sponsored by the Refuge Institute, a City of Refuge UCC ministry that provides educational workshops and training to enhance the leadership skills of clergy and laity.
Time: 10:00 am
Location: 1025 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA

Saturday, November 12, 2011: "It's a Family Reunion: Sharing our Stories, Celebrating the Journey!" The social gathering will include food, fellowship, stories, and entertainment.
Time: 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: 1025 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA. 

Sunday, November 13, 2011: Interfaith Ceremonial Opening: Honoring the Traditions of our Ancestors Worship Service. Bishop Wyatt Greenlee of Greater New Heights United Church of Christ in St. Louis, MO will be the guest speaker.
Time: 1:00 pm
Location: 1025 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA

Sunday, November 13, 2011: Community Celebration Service with tributes from pastors and community partners. Bishop Gordon Humphrey Jr., Senior Pastor of Olivet Baptist Church, Oakland and Stockton, CA and Shiloh Baptist Church in Chicago, IL will be the guest speaker.
Host Pastor: Rev. Sandy Coleman
Time: 6:00 pm.
Location: Love Center Ministries 10440 International Boulevard Oakland, CA

This Saturday October 29, 2011 

Tim'm West 

returns to the Bay Area  

to perform and promote 

music from his new CD, 

"Fly Brotha"

 

Get 20% off my book, "Touch...Poems & Other Writings of Love, Erotica, & Sensuality" when you order on www.lulu.com The book is also available on Amazon as well as Barnes & Noble but the discount is only available on the lulu site when you use the code BURIED305 at check out.

Take advantage of this discount until this Friday October 28, 2011.

Join the, "Touch..." fan page on facebook to keep up with any other discounts, signings, & performances www.facebook.com/TouchPoemsAndOtherWritings

 

 

 

Call For Submissions: "Letters To My Bully"

Call for Submissions-Anthology: Letter’s to My Bully (Glover Lane Press) Edited by Azaan Kamau and Ifalade Ta’Shia Asanti

Letter’s to My Bully is a collection of letters, short stories (fiction or non-fiction), poetry and essays from authors across the world that speaks to the traumatic and sometimes fatal impact of bullying.

Letters to My Bully is also an educational and preventative tool for parents, educators, teens and youth, as well as a channel for healing and empowerment for bullying victims and survivors.
Letters to My Bully is currently seeking submissions of:

Essays-1000 Words or Less
Personal Commentary (Letters)-1000 Words or Less
Poetry-2-3 Single Spaced Pages
Short Stories (Fiction or Non-Fiction)-2500-3000 Words or Less

Submissions should speak to:

-Your personal experiences with being bullied
-How being bullied changed or altered your life
-How you overcame being victimized by a bully
-Essays discussing possible solutions to bullying
-What you would say to your bully if you could confront them today

Deadline: November 15, 2011 at 5pm Please send submissions to letterstomybullymail@gmail.com

All submissions must include full contact information including Name, Address, Email, Phone Number and Web Site (if you have one). Please use only, Times Roman, 12 Point Font with One Inch Margins (DO NOT INCLUDE SPECIAL GRAPHICS, FONTS, COLORED TEXT ETC)

For more information visit Glover Lane Press website at http://gloverlanepress.webs.com/ or
http://azaankamau.webs.com/ or call 1-424-703-3277 or write to letterstomybullymail@gmail.com

Black Family History Day & My Special Birthday Greeting....

The African American Genealogical Society of Northern California(AAGSNC)

and the Oakland Family History Center Present

BLACK FAMILY HISTORY DAY 2011

Celebrate Family History Month by creating a family tree of your own!

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Free and Open to the Public from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.




Oakland Family History Center
4766 Lincoln Avenue, Oakland, CA 94602

* Learn about Black History from your ancestors perspective
* Receive one-on-one assistance for FREE
* Bring a family member to share the experience
* Make it possible for future generations to know where they came from

To reserve a free consultation for a four-generation ancestry
chart or to register for the event, please select the number
of attendees above and click "Register" above.

For questions and further information call 877-884-2843



This is the best birthday greeting I have ever gotten in my life!! My great niece Taylor and I share a birthday. I know we aren't supposed to have favorites but she is definitely special to me.....

Marvin White Reading & Friday September 30 Is "O-Day" Day!!!!

This Saturday September 24, 2011 join Marvin K. White as he reads from his 2 count 'em 2 new books, "Our Name Be A Witness" & "Status"




Books will be available for purchase at the event. Jewelle Gomez had this to say about Marvin's new work: "Marvin K. White's writings are exquisite incantations that evoke irresistible worlds." Come hear for yourself, and be transported!






Joyce Gordon Gallery
406 14th St.
Oakland, CA



Community Leader & Activist Ken Jones Has Decreed The First Annual "O-Day" In San Francisco

What is "O-Day" You may ask? Read below for more information....

By the powers vested in me, I declare, Friday, 30 September 2011 to be the 1st Annual Black Gay Men’s Appreciation Day in San Francisco. We are calling it “O-Day” (as in Our) (or Out) (whichever your preference).



The celebration will begin at 7:30pm at Gussie’s Chicken and Waffles; as part of their “Flashback Fridays” celebration, featuring DJ Mark Di Vita spinning Old School Hits!



The all-you-can-eat buffet is $ 10.00 plus a 2 drink minimum; so the evening expense will be close to $ 20.00 (Please let us know in advance if you need assistance in meeting the tab). Bring a friend, post on your Facebook Page; but, do let me know you are coming no later than Wednesday, the 28th so I can give Gussie’s a head count.

Ken.jones.COR@gmail.com

Black Gay Men’s Appreciation Day in San Francisco

Gussie’s Chicken and Waffles at 1521 Eddy Street (between Fillmore and Steiner, accessible by Muni Lines 22-Fillmore, and 31-Balboa; or three long blocks from any of the Geary Street Buses)

Feel The, "Touch..." For 15% Off

You can get your copy of my book, "Touch...Poems & Other Writings of Love, Erotica, & Sensuality for 15% off until this Friday September 23rd!!

Enter the code: OKTOBERFEST305 at check out to receive the discount. The book is also available on line at amazon.com as well as barnesandnoble.com but the discount can only be applied when you order at lulu.com

Feel The, "Touch..." At Oakland Pride 2011-"We Are Family"

Sunday September 4th I'll be at Oakland Pride selling copies of my book, "Touch...Poems & Other Writings of Love, Erotica, & Sensuality" which is also available on line at lulu.com, amazon.com, as well as barnesandnoble.com







I'll be sharing a booth with my friend visual artist Ronald Jackson. Ron will be bringing some of his beautiful & original artwork from Los Angeles. Be sure to check out his unique pieces.





Jennifer Holliday is the headliner for this year's Pride Event so if the weather cooperates we should have an amazing time!!

Some Books For You To Check Out....

I have some poems included in a new anthology titled, "Tapestries of Faith: Black SGLBT Stories of Triumph, Family, Love, & Healing."



Tapestries of Faith is filled with poetry, essays and prose that intends to sooth the heart and reawaken the spirit. Anthology contributors represent a wide range of artists ranging from journalists, photographers, performance artists, playwrights and more. Among them are the distinguished C. Jerome Woods, DRED, Claudia Moss, Queen Hollins, KAUTION, Ennis Jackson, Katrina Arango, Bey Celeste and many others.


You should also check out another anthology I was included in titled, "Mighty Real: An Anthology of African-American Same Gender Loving Writing"


A collection of African-American Same Gender Loving Literature featuring both new and established writers. Grounded in a poignant and truthful sensibility, imbued with the realities of sex and love, Smith and Williams present a culmination of poems, short stories, radical essays, sermons, plays and interviews honoring notable figures within the SGLBT community.


These are both available on line at amazon.com




One of the my great joys in writing has been my association with Frankie Lennon. I first met her while we were both members of Unity Fellowship Church in Los Angeles. Frankie is a incredible writer, teacher, mentor, & activist. She was instrumental of writing grants and coordinating events for Minority AIDS Project in the early days of the virus when people were dying daily. She is one of those women who stood for those men when they couldn't stand for themselves. Attending funerals weekly and caring & visiting for men whose families had turned against them. Frankie's memoir, "The MEE Street Chronicles" is an incredible collection of stories that cover her youth, family, racial discrimination, sexism. homophobia, coming, out, alcoholism, and many other topics in a straight forward & entertaining way. There's even a story of a middle school adventure with childhood friend Nikki Giovanni who wrote the introduction for the book. The book has been out for the past couple of years but she has just informed it is now available electronically for Kindle or Nooks. Copy and paste these links to purchase her book for your e-reader:


ORDER EBOOK for Nook at
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Mee-Street-Chronicles/Frankie-Lennon/e/2940012800527

ORDER ebook for Kindle at
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0058ETNK6/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=roninenterprises&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B0058ETNK6

ORDER at Apple at
http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-mee-street-chronicles/id447527106?mt=11&ign-mpt=uo%3D4




















I've just found out about this book and it's free for download!! You only have to have Adobe on your computer to download & print out. It's a Case Study of the effects on South African Liberation has had on the Youth there.


Case Study: Out of the Box: Queer Youth in South Africa Today
Marian Nell and Janet Shapiro


This Atlantic-commissioned case study provides a snapshot of what life is like for young lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgendered and intersex people (LGBTIs) in South Africa today – 17 years after the Constitution outlawed discrimination based on sexual orientation. It explores if democracy has brought greater tolerance and celebration of diversity for today’s young LGBTIs. Its findings (based on interviews with young LGBTIs across race, class and gender) are that while these young people face a double layer of challenges – those faced by all youth, such as unemployment, as well as their own specific challenges, including homophobia - many also see themselves as agents of change and find safe spaces and support within the growing LGBTI community.

Go to this link to download: www.atlanticphilanthropies.org/learning/case-study-out-box-queer-youth-south-africa-today

Of course my book, "Touch...Poems & Other Writings of Love, Erotica, & Sensuality is still available: www.lulu.com/spotlight/tombombayboopublishing


If you're in the bay area & at Oakland Pride on September 4, 2012 I'll be sharing a booth with my friend Ron Jackson from Los Angeles. He'll have some of his art, jewelry, and other things available for purchase & I'll have copies of, "Touch..." for a discounted price on the on-line rate.

A Couple Of Events In "The Town" (Oakland, Ca) & New Work By Marvin K. White

Here's a couple of events happening here in Oakland, Ca to be on the lookout for. If you come to Oakland BlackOUT I'll have copies of my book, "Touch...Poems & Other Writings of Love, Erotica, & Sensuality" for sale there....







Available on line http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/tombombayboopublishing













Oakland Black LGBTQ Pride is an event established in 2010 to provide a celebration of diversity, education, tolerance, and equality. Our organization is dedicated to working towards closing the social generational gap in Oakland between LGBTQ youth and adults through communication, education, and mentoring. We want to help direct and empower our community towards healthier and more productive lifestyles. Our Slogan is “Bridging the gap… making a difference.”

We are motivated to educate our community as a whole in an effort to stop the spread of sexually transmitted diseases through workshops, free HIV testing, and providing prophylactics.

Our purpose for the BlackOUT weekend is to build a more unified and tolerant Oakland, to help build the economy, and serve the under-served.















SUNDAY, AUGUST 28
1:30pm-5:30pm
www.celebrationsbythebay.com &
THE PRODUCERS OF CLUB RIMSHOT & "LOVE" INVITE YOU TO
A CASUAL LGBT & FRIENDS
TEA DANCE ON THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY!
FOOD, FUN, & FRIENDS!




Besides needing an ass whoopin! Marvin K. White is a phenomenal writer. He has two new books available, "Our Name Be A Witness" a collection of poetry using the voices of women & "Status" a work I am interested to read because who knows what goes on in that mind of his? Both are available on line at www.redbonepress.com

For All We Know: In Memory of David Blair & Taylor Siluwe-Speaking Their Names....

I've found myself thinking of the lyrics to the Donny Hathaway song, "For All We Know..." after hearing about the transition of Poet, Spoken Word Artist, & Musician Blair (David Blair) and Author & Blogger Taylor Siluwe.



I first met Blair soon after moving to the bay area. He was here from Detroit featuring at a local spoken word spot. I had never heard of him before but I was blown away by his performance. He was only here for a few days but we managed to sneak in a lunch and have time to talk. Blair is one of those performers that tours constantly so I always assumed our paths would cross again. He was a gifted performer and I love the tone of his voice. I could listen to him read the phone book. Here's a sample of some of his work:



I'm know he will be missed by many other performers and people who grew to know him. Very gentle and warm spirit.



A few weeks ago I woke to read several posts on facebook and other places that Author & Blogger Taylor Siluwe had transitioned. I had never met him but we spoke through messages and IM chats about meeting once I finally made my long planned & hoped for trip to New York. He was one of the first to join the fan page for my book and also sent an encouraging note in support of me getting it published. I loved his blog and his work it was so organic and seemed to come from a place of really trying to inform people. I loved that the way he wrote wasn't just to humor himself or show how smart or talented he was.



I'm the youngest of 10 and had a brother & sister die as well as a niece that I never expected. It just never literally entered the realm of possibility that we would not all grow old together. I'm really understanding how eternal life is not some notion we were taught in traditional religion about heaven or something "over there" but it's like the ancestors told us to speak the names of those we have met in this life so their lives live on....

Both these guys will be missed by many and like I said it really has got me thinking,

For all we know
We may never meet again
Before you go
Make this moment sweet again

We won't say goodnight
Until the last minute
I'll hold out my hand
And my heart will be in it

For all we know
This may only be a dream
We come and we go
Like the ripples of a stream

So love me, love me tonight
tomorrow was made for some
tomorrow may never come
For all we know...........

Reflection, Renewal, & Laughter....

Last week I attended, "The Fellowship" Convention in Las Vegas, NV. The Fellowship is a conglomerate of open & affirming churches lead by my Pastor, Bishop Yvette Flunder.

I've attended many workshops, conferences, conventions, & convocations over my life and I've learned to use them as a place of renewal for me. I really needed it I've had a series of disappointments from people not following through on things that they've promised or that we've spoken about. I won't go into detail because honestly I am still bitter about some of it and I don't like being that way. It's something I'm definitely working on. I don't want my look on life to be skewered by hanging my hopes on another person's actions but it is at least for me disappointing & upsetting when people don't do what they said they would do and then avoid contact with you because they haven't especially when you consider those people to be friends/people you love. I have learned it's important to return phone calls, e-mails, and messages. Even if the answer is no and will cause disappointment it's better to know it than to leave things in limbo.

Music has always been a balm for me and during my time at The Fellowship in Las Vegas I got a chance to participate with the National Mass Choir. This is always a highlight for me because there is just something so special about people from different churches coming together to form a choir. Usually you get people who are dedicated to the Music Ministry so there is an extra level of energy. The music for the nightly services was phenomenal! Even Mother Shirley Miller, the partner of Bishop Flunder said she thought it was the best the National Choir has sounded since the beginning of The Fellowship.

One highlight was a tribute to Sylvester by Martha Wash, B. Slade (formerly Tonex), Gene Viale, Bishop Flunder, and the incomparable Charlene Moore who is the National Minister of Music for The Fellowship. Both Martha & Charlene sang background for Sylvester and Bishop Flunder was one of the Associate Pastors at Love Center when he attended services there. Here is a wonderful rendition of one of his most famous songs, "You Are My Friend" by these amazing vocalists:



I saw this video first on facebook and it just made me smile and filled with such joy. This kid is so excited that he's met his first pair of husbands. It's like he found money or something!! Then just as a kid would do let's them know he's going to play ping pong and invites them!

Feel The "Touch..." For 20% Off....

ACT FAST!-This offer is only available until this Friday July 15. You can get 20% off

Go to: http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/tombombayboopublishing
and use code: BIG305 at check out



“Touch…Poems & Other Writings of Love, Erotica & Sensuality” by Jair, the Literary Masturbator is a friendly reminder that living and loving is possible. Jair touches us in many ways weaving familiar sounds and sharing intimate stories (real or imagined) to help unify his theme. These poems touch you physically, spiritually and mentally. One of my favorite poems is “When I Look into His Eyes…”

Much like Etheridge Knight’s “Ilu, the Talking Drum”, Jair’s “When I Look into His Eyes…” is filled with sound devices, specifically alliteration and repetition, which help fuse the poem. For example, the speaker states he drowns in “sweet soulful syncopation” (5). A few lines further the speaker describes the sound from a flute as “feather falling freely” (12). In addition, we hear a rhythmic repetitive rumbling of a drum beating with the repetition of the words “Africa” and “drum”. The sounds of life (drumming and heart beating) in and under the poem summon us because they are familiar. Similarly, the refrain used “When I look into his eyes” is a tool that brings us full circle from Africa to America and back again.

Music is consistent throughout his poems and fittingly, Jair injects music into this poem to help tell his tale. Written with a fluid rhythm, the poem is like a song. My favorite line is “A voice calls out, rising above the mixture of sight and sound to create/ joy unbound…in this island found, in the oasis of your soul” (14-15). Their lovemaking is boundless, vulnerable and free.

My jaded ideas of serial monogamy and Knight’s imprisonment in many ways are isolating, however, the process of writing for Knight, Jair and me is a liberating experience. Jair’s book moved me. I was touched and reminded living and loving is possible.-Review by Dauwd Najimi II

Roux Artistry Hour!-Poets & Spoken Word Artists on Good Gumbo Radio!

It's no secret I am totally amazed and crazy about my friend lily (liketheflower) in the artist community it's sometimes hard to find people who support your work and are a friend as well. lily has ALWAYS been a strong supporter and sister to me and for that I am grateful. This Saturday she would like to feature YOU! YES YOU! on her radio show. Read below for the details....












Episode: EPISODE59 - 'Good Gumbo' Radio: Roux Artistry Hour
Join us this Saturday for the Roux Artistry Hour! Poets and SpokenWord artists sign up for the Open Mic session (5-7 minutes to recite and promote your work). email: lily@lilyliketheflower.com Visit http://www.lilyliketheflower.com to listen to past episodes of 'Good Gumbo Radio'. Follow on twitter @poeticgirlChild or @goodgumboradio



Good Gumbo' Radio covers an eclectic blend of relevant topics. Hosted by author/poet lily (like the flower), 'Good Gumbo' Radio combines straightforward talk and witty flavor to create hearty conversation! Join us every Saturday at 10a PT/ 1p ET.

Scheduled Time:

Date: Sat, June 18, 2011
Time: 01:00 PM EDT

How to participate:

Call in:

1. Dial: (724) 444-7444
2. Enter: 80315 # (Call ID)
3. Enter: 1 # or your PIN

Facebook User? You can join this call directly from the TalkShoe Community Calling Facebook application www.facebook.com/apps/application.php?id=9051855207&sk=wall

Feel Mighty Real, A Soulful Salon, Feel The, "Touch..." For 20% Off!!

Join Bay Area Contributors Alan Miller, Stewart Shaw, Marvin K. White, & Myself As We Discuss Our Contributions To The New Book, "Mighty Real: An Anthology of African American Same Gender Loving Writing" as well as new works and other projects...












City of Refuge San Francisco Men's Department Presents
A Soulful Salon-An Afternoon of Spoken Word & Poetry
In Celebration of Juneteenth

Saturday June 18, 2011
2:00pm-5:00pm

Yvette A Flunder Center
1025 Howard Street (Entrance on Harriett Street)
San Francisco, Ca 94103
Admission: Free!!

Food Provided By Men's Department



From now until 11:59 Monday June 13, 2011 Get 20% a purchase of my new book, "Touch...Poems & Other Writings of Love, Erotica, & Sensuality" Use the promo code provided above and go to www.lulu.com/spotlight/tombombayboopublishing

Feel Mighty Real....

Join Bay Area contributors, Alan Miller, Stewart Shaw, Marvin White, & Jair as they share their work from the new anthology, "Mighty Real: An Anthology of African-American Same Gender Loving Writing edited by R. Bryant Smith and Darius Omar Williams.

You will hear also about their latest work and projects.