"Knowledge - obtained through the act of reading - is the single most powerful tool that one can possess, without it we are left battling ignorance empty handed." Anzour S. Jallouqa

"As a family man, I realize now more than ever that reading is something I have to not only do for myself but set the example for my children as well. No matter what your background or interest, there is something for all people in a book. It is just up to us to avail ourselves of the endless possibilities they offer." --- Herschel Dixon, Asst. Producer for The Write Stuff www.thewritestufftv.com

"Reading coupled with comprehension, are the Adam and Eve of education. One
must read and comprehend to continue to take steps in their journey for
achievement." --- Mr. White, author/speaker www.mrwhitesbooks.com

"If you had to reinvent the frying pan every morning, wouldn't it be a real pain in the butt to have scrambled eggs for breakfast? We read books not only to learn to how live better lives but also how not to make the same mistakes of those that came before us. Books provide the knowledge we need to be better people, lead better lives, and reading is the skill that gives us access to the knowledge and the act of reading in itself builds our brainpower so we can even better utilize the wisdom we obtain from the lines of print that make up the books in our life.

"The Japanese have an interesting word (Hanmenkyoshi) which means literally "opposite side teacher". The real meaning of the word is to refer to "the teacher who teaches you by bad example---they show you what NOT to do." In my own book, at times, I am a hanmenkyoshi. I was a good reporter but I made some terrible mistakes and I know that some people may have suffered for it. In writing about my mistakes, I'm also hoping that it will help other succeed.

"This reminds me of another Japanese saying, 'I think every really good book has one or two kernels of wisdom in them that are essentially the most important things the author has learned in his life.' By learning from others before us, we can avoid their mistakes as we go forward and we can live happier, or if not happier, at least more meaningful and fulfilling lives. Twice in my life I've had to learn to read. Once in English and then later in the mid-point of my life, in Japanese. Learning to read Japanese became the foundation of my career as a journalist but the process of learning to read that language and speak it also changed how I understood the world.

"The Japanese language doesn't require personal pronouns such as 'I, you, he, they' to make a sentence. 'Ikimasu' (to go) can be a sentence in and of itself. It could mean 'I go' or 'You go' or 'He will go'---it all depends on the context. This is one of the ways I began to understand how important context is in communicating in Japanese and that prefatory remarks were often essential in communicating effectively.

"In Japanese speech, even when transcribed in print, the declension of verbs and the terms of address used all change according to the understanding of the social status between speaker and listener. You can't make sense of Japanese unless you understand the Japanese world-view which is that we are not equal, most of the time. Most of the time someone is either an inferior or superior to the other.
It doesn't matter whether you accept that world-view or not, to speak the language correctly, you have to act as if that is the case. So for me learning to read Japanese also helped me read the culture as well as the books. It also made think a lot about the assumptions of our American society. We don't like to admit but we are living in class society, a sort of plutocracy--where wealth does a lot to determine if you are considered superior or inferior in society and how you are treated. If you doubt this, try moving from coach to business class on an airplane and you'll see what I mean.

"Books can have many uses: some inform, some entertain, some waste your time but the best books have lessons to teach us and by reading good books and appreciating them we become a little bit wiser--and wisdom is part of what makes life worth living and also essential to discovering in what it is to be happy and content with our lives. In my case, reading the right documents once upon a time, well--it literally saved my life. But if you want to understand all of that---I guess you'll have to read my book. (But make sure you're ready to handle some unpleasant stuff--not for kids--I think).

"With each book I read, I'm a little closer to being the person I know that I want to be." --- Jake Adelstein, investigative reporter/author www. japansubculture.com

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"I have to honestly say that reading was not a big part of my life growing up, but I am living proof that it doesn't matter when you start your addiction to books. It's just important that you do it. My advise would be to start with just a page of two on a subject that you enjoy, and before long you will be like me, hooked!" --- Stanley Clark, President of For The People Productions www.forthepeopleproductions.com

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"Reading is the gateway to anywhere in the world. Nothing can take you higher or farther in life than a good book. Read, read, read!!" -- Author/Motivational Speaker Tony A. Gaskins Jr.

www.tonygaskins.com

"One problem today is, we don’t read enough. We prefer to get information through talk shows and entertainment through high-powered special effects movies. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. But when it takes the place of reading, our ability to develop independent thought is diminished. In our complex environment, we can’t afford this.

"As a writer, it levies a responsibility to produce stories that entertain and to also say something about our world and us.

"Angels of Venice tells a story of strong and flawed characters within a literary narrative that blends the genres of horror and mystery into a vision that pushes the boundaries of what is possible.

"I would like the reader to walk away believing a new twist on the old vampire story, to play with the idea that there are indeed “vampires” in our world—human mutations that feed from our desires, dreams, and addictions. Our deepest anger and despair become simply a source of nourishment for them.

"And of course I want the reader to have fun too." --- Author T. R. Foster, (carol@publishingworks.com)

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"I have been reading since I was 6 years old. Reading grants every person the power to access any reality they choose. It teaches socail skills, empathy, compassion, intellectualism, what fork to use, and how to give back. If it weren't for the power of the written word, I would be a very different person today." --- TV Personality/Motivational Speaker/Author Christine Alt Parry www.christinealtparry.com

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"Off and on for more than fifty years, in talks to kids or where they were present, in commencement addresses, in keynote speeches to parent and community groups, in my hundreds of classes teaching my kids, and in college classrooms teaching prospective and practicing teachers and principals, I've been repeatedly propounding this one short mantra and writing it on countless blackboards and posting it on my bulletin boards for my thousands of secondary students to understand, to internalize, to ponder and discuss the MEANING of, and to MEMORIZE:

"'The limits of your LANGUAGE are the limits of your WORLD.'

"This, in these eleven short words in this single simple sentence, is why achieving a mastery level in reading is the only achievement that can enable our children to attain a full education. This pivotal achievement is not only important in all their intellectual endeavors, but it is also crucial to their lifelong success and advancement--and thus to the perpetual success and advancement of our democratic nation, which is the anointed leader (and oftentimes, of necerssity, the protector) of the free world." --- Dr. John Telford, author of A LIFE ON THE RUN wwww.alifeontherun.com

"When our critical faculties degrade, society declines. If writers don’t address the great, pressing issues of their time, who will?" --- "Rhae", contestant from blog-based reality show Fourth Fiction www.fourthnight.com

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"Reading is a survival skill for school and for the rest of your life. But reading goes way beyond a survival skill. It can open up new worlds and take you on adventures and to places you have never imagined." --- Author Christopher Valen www.christophervalen.com

 

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"Reading books, magazines, newspapers or anything that informs; stimulates learning and will open the door of the universe awaiting your arrival!" --- Author Steven J. Young www.stevenjyoung.com

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"In addition to providing quality books, journals and textbooks that contribute to literacy all around the globe, Wiley also supports reading with the Wiley Read Aloud program, a vibrant partnership with local public schools in our communities. Our colleagues read to students in public elementary schools with the purpose of encouraging students to become life-long lovers of reading. Since the read-aloud program’s launch in Hoboken in 2002, it has grown to five global locations, with more on the way. For more information, visit www.wiley.com/go/citizenship, and click on Community." --- Lori Sayde-Mehrtens,Wiley Director of Publicity

 

 

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"Reading means that I no longer have to be judged by race, socio-economic status or any other barrier. When I pick up a book I give myself permission to go to the next level...to enlighten my mindset and to soar beyond the expectations of others. I allow myself to creatively use my sense of purpose and to take a moment to understand someone else's story so that when the time comes my story is better articulated. Reading means that the sky is the limit!" Author Tara Michener www.taramichener.com

 

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"Reading is fundamental. Not only does it educate the listener, but the reader as well. To read is to uplift, and that's the job of every being: to uplift fallen humanity." --- Stix, Hip Pop artist www.myspace.com/wattscity


"You can't paint a picture of success unless you know how to paint! Learn to read and write: It's the blueprint of life!" --- Rasheed Young, Run's Athletics www.runathletics.com

"Reading is the gateway to knowledge, adventure, magical worlds and a more enriched life." --- Author Brian Rathbone www.brianrathbone.com

"Becoming an efficient reader and writer is like a well-watered seed whose growth is unlimited. Then,too, the possibilities of your life are infinite." --- K. D. Brosia, recording artist www.kds02.com

"We are lost because of lack of knowledge. Without reading there is no education and we remain lost." --- Earl Hall, talk show host www.earlhall.net

"Reading is so important because you can learn some important things about the Past, Present and Future of life. I love reading." --- Pleasure Ellis, recording artist www.pleasurelife.com

FUNKGHOST: Using Influences From The Past To Create Music For The Future

FUNKGHOST: Using Influences From The Past To Create Music For The Future
by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Magazine/Shadow Play Entertainment


The man called the “Morris Day of Hip Hop” is relishing in the acclaim his singles “The Way I Rock My Clothes” and "I'm Your DJ" are getting, but remains focused on the goal of just giving the world good music. Known in the business as Funkghost, the Tampa, FL native has always been around beats. His father was a part-time dj, and Funkghost was a fan of the 8 tracks around him and was drawn to music made by artists like Run DMC.

Throughout the years he has always tried to show his support for any creative endeavor, looking for ways to build on his personal brand. As he began to build his reputation, Funkghost knew it was just as important to sell who you are as a person as it is to get your music out to the masses.

Over the years he has been asked for his advice by new artists who are trying to break into the business or that are looking for staying power. What does he tell them? “Don’t sign anything with anyone until you have your paperwork and yourself together legally. You have to protect your name and your image at the same time.”


Funkghost also draws on his own means of staying grounded for the next tip. “Surround yourself with successful people. Relationships are key. Make sure you are in a position where you are keeping all options and doors open.” He also understands what it takes to make it in a business like the music industry that changes everyday. "You have to love what you do. If you are doing it for any reason other than your love of the music, it's not going to work."

Looking back over his career in the entertainment business, Funkghost sees himself as a more seasoned artist and definitely more confident in who he is and what he represents. Above anything, he believes in being true to himself.

When asked how he defines success, Funkghost says it is getting new people to know who he is and to hear his music. Because of this, he is always taking advantage of new and innovative ways of connecting with people such as the social networking sites. He sees them as an invaluable way of reaching new heights as he continues forward with his career.

You can hear Funkghost's interview on Conversations LIVE! with host Cyrus Webb by clicking here. To find out more about Funkghost, go to http://www.funkghost.blogspot.com or follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/funkghost.

SAT. NOV. 7, 2009: Because of recent tragedies that occurred during the past week, Shadow Play Entertainment and the producers of The Write Stuff decided it was appropriate to push up a special segment it had prepared to run during the holidays called "Faith and Literature."


Creator and host Cyrus Webb was able to assemble four bestselling authors (Jerry Jenkins, Jewell Parker Rhodes, L. A. Banks and Evie Rhodes)who came together for the first time to discuss the role that their personal beliefs played in the work they produced and how they walked the fine line of treating their careers like a business while still being true to who they are.

It is a six-part conversation that you will want to watch and share with anyone who finds themselves struggling with those very issues. This show is dedicated to the memory of Izear Roberts, Jr.---the father of producer Stanley Clark---who passed away unexpectantly this week, those who passed away in the horrible incidents in both Texas and Florida as well as their families. It is our hope that all will find something to encourage themselves as we go through our own challenges in life as well...

Watch The Write Stuff's Special "Faith and Literature"

SAT. NOV. 7, 2009: Because of recent tragedies that occurred during the past week, Shadow Play Entertainment and the producers of The Write Stuff decided it was appropriate to push up a special segment it had prepared to run during the holidays called "Faith and Literature." Creator and host Cyrus Webb was able to assemble four bestselling authors (Jerry Jenkins, Jewell Parker Rhodes, L. A. Banks and Evie Rhodes)who came together for the first time to discuss the role that their personal beliefs played in the work they produced and how they walked the fine line of treating their careers like a business while still being true to who they are.

It is a six-part conversation that you will want to watch and share with anyone who finds themselves struggling with those very issues. This show is dedicated to the memory of Izear Roberts, Jr.---the father of producer Stanley Clark---who passed away unexpectantly this week, those who passed away in the horrible incidents in both Texas and Florida as well as their families. It is our hope that all will find something to encourage themselves as we go through our own challenges in life as well...

Praise For The Write Stuff Continues...

"If you don't know... its because you don't read and It's never too late to learn how to find out what you don't know.

"If the key to finding out what you don't know is reading, then you should also understand that its never too late to learn how to read. I have always been an inquisitive person, even as a child before I could read. I vividly remember growing up badgering my mother with questions and her response would always be 'look it up'. It made me sad then, but I appreciate it now. You can't rely on other peoples knowledge and understanding of things. Everyone interprets differently. Nor can you always expect people to have your best interest at heart, so much that you think they'll always tell you the truth. The key to life, success, happiness, and any question you may have all lie within a book. It's out there, but you must read....Learn to read!" --- Singing sensation Erin Stevenson http://www.erinstevensonmusic.com

"In an effort to promote literacy and economic advancement within the communities , as well as our youth, Industry Standard Magazine is a proud supporter of an effort such as the national literacy campaign. It is our responsibility as a media outlet to make a lasting impact when possible, and for that reason we are truly excited and supportive of this campaign." "Huneey", The Lyfestyle Group / Industry Standard Magazine www.industrystandardmag.com

"MrsP.com was created to give kids the experience of having a trusted, skilled storyteller read them classics of literature. Rather than simply presenting an audiobook, Mrs. P recreates the look and feel of “story time”, a magical ritual many kids might not otherwise get to enjoy. The site is free and also offers read-along options for early readers, spelling games and a Magic Dictionary.

"And Mrs. P loves events like National Reading Day that highlight the importance of literacy." --- Dana Plautz, Mrs P Enterprises, LLC www.MrsP.com






"At this very moment I'm obsessed with writing, so I find myself reading a lot more books to enhance my vocabulary. "Think and Grow Rich!" Great book!! That's what I'm on right now!" --- Fizz of Fizz and Boog www.fizzandboog.com

"Don't think of what you want to do as a dream. Your reality is what you
create it to be. The more you go towards what you believe to be true, the
more people are going to tell you that it's false. Before you believe
them, take a look at what they are doing. The RZA said 'Positive Energy
Activates Constant Elevation' - take each of the first letters from that
and you can see what awaits you." --- Christopher Herz, Canal Publishing www.canalpublishing.com

"There is a serious literacy problem that is not allowing people around the world to reach their full potential and Cyrus A. Webb and The Write Stuff is taking initiative to DO something about that and make a difference in people’s lives. Cyrus’ mission of encouraging, nurturing, listening and advising people about the joys and importance of reading and writing is inspiring. His commitment to encouraging reading and spread its addiction as well as promoting self-expression and enabling people everywhere to be heard -- is what reading and writing is all about. I am honored to join as part of Cyrus’ inspired movement to bring like-minded people together to collaborate and mobilize ‘do-ers’ in the area of literacy and create change around the world. In this way, everyone benefits, problems are solved and change happens." --- Dr. Alice Wilder, Co-Creator of Think It Ink It Publishing/Co-Creator of PBS’s Super Why!/Producer, Director of Research & Development for Blue’s Clues www.thinkitinkitpublishing.com

"Reading is so important because you can learn some important things about the Past, Present and Future of life." -- Recording artist Pleasure Ellis www.pleasureslife.com

"We are lost because of lack of knowledge. Without reading there is no education and we remain lost." --- Earl Hall of The Earl Hall Show www.earlhall.net

"Becoming an efficient reader and writer is like a well-watered seed whose growth is unlimited. Then, too, the possibilities of your life are infinite. The more you read and write, the more knowledge you gain." --- K. D. Brosia, Recording Artist www.kds02.com

"Reading is the gateway to knowledge, adventure, magical worlds and a more enriched life." Author Brian Rathbone www.brianrathbone.com

"I'm participating with The Write Stuff because reading is fundamental. Not only does it educate the listener but the reader as well. To read is to uplift, and that's the job of every being: to uplift fallen humanity." --- Stix, Recording Artist www.myspace.com/wattscity

"You can't paint a picture of success unless you know how to paint! Learn to read and write: it's the blueprint of life!" --- Rasheed Young, Run Athletics www.runathletics.com

Watch The Write Stuff Episode 3 Here

Host Cyrus Webb welcomes you back to The Write Stuff with practical tips from NYT Bestselling author Stuart Woods as well as author/activist Nesta Aharoni. You will also get practical marketing and writing tips from author Jeff Rivera as well as radio show host/marketing guru Earl Hall. Finally, you will hear from International Recording artist Donnie Klang of Sean "P. Diddy" Combs' Bad Boy Records family. He shares how the power of words is making his second album the best...

SAT. OCT. 24, 2009: Watch the 2nd Online Episode of The Write Stuff here!

This week's episode of The Write Stuff is brought to you from the office of Shadow Play Entertainment where host Cyrus Webb also broadcasts his radio show Conversations LIVE!. He shares part of his discussions with bestselling authors Tananarive Due and Steven Barnes while also discussing with author Gary Myers the importance of encouraging people of different interests to use it in encouraging reading. In the profile segment we let you hear from CBS National Correspondent Byron Pitts as he talks about his new book STEP OUT ON NOTHING. Want to know what nationally known recording star will be on the show to end the month of October? You have to catch the entire show for that!

PART ONE: Bestselling authors Tananarive Due and Steven Barnes talk success

PART TWO: Bestselling author Wahida Clark talks about her amazing career

PART THREE: Cyrus Webb talks about the book club designed for sports lovers and introduces books designed with them in mind. He also begins his conversation with author Gary Myers about the events that inspired the book THE CATCH

PART FOUR: The continuation of Webb's discussion with author Gary Myers

PART FIVE: Our literary profile features CBS National Correspondent Byron Pitts

PART SIX: Find out what is coming up next for The Write Stuff and how you can become more involved in our literacy campaign.

The Literary Community Unites To Promote A National Day of Reading In Each State

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Literary Community Unites To Promote A National Day of Reading In Each State

Contact: Cyrus A. Webb, Founder of The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign

cawebb4@juno.com / 601.896.5616



Earlier this year, ABC News reported that over 30 million Americans ages 16 and up were unable to read or write well. This proves what many have said for some time: Illiteracy is an epidemic that is spreading daily, claiming victims of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds.

Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign and their literary partners are excited to announce a historic event geared towards sharing the gift of reading and books across the United States under a show of united support in each state. On Saturday, November 21, 2009 between the hours of 10-6p.m., The Write Stuff founder and host Cyrus A. Webb is working with others in scheduling Reading Parties (see http://tinyurl.com/readingparties ) throughout the country geared towards 1) speaking in one voice in support of encouraging reading, 2) supporting local authors and their books and 3) providing a positive outlet that is sometimes overlooked with all the chaos going on in the world around us.

Each Reading Party will be designed for that particular area by that particular area. Webb and his supporters will only act as a means to promote the event and help strategize where their is a need for assistance. During the time frame selected by each Reading Party, there will be booksignings, book discussions or whatever seems appropriate to that host. The events are part of the Art, Books & Beats movement (www.artbooksandbeats.com) which combines the power of visual/literary art, books and music. Those participating will be listed online at www.thewritestufftv.com identified by their state along with what type of event they are hosting as well as the time of their event. All Reading Parties are free to the public.

If you are in a position to do so, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign is asking that you bring a new or used book to the event you attend. Book donations will benefit CityKids Foundation, Common Ground Foundation, Everybody Wins, Reading Tree, Adele's Literacy Library and NEA's "Read Across America".

Have questions about this National Day of Reading? Are you an author, book lover, book club or entertainer that would like to coordinate an event in connection with our historic literary event? Contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Upcoming "Art, Books and Beats" Events

Shadow Play Entertainment and The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign to bring you events geared towards encouraging the literary community as well as providing opportunities for book lovers to come together and support authors as well as discuss ways they can unite to encourage others to join their addiction to books.

Literary Soldiers Wage War Against Illiteracy

There's a powerful movement taking place across the world, and the battle that is ensuing involves everyone. It is a fight against illiteracy. One of the Generals in the war is Mississippi native 34 year-old multi-media personality Cyrus A. Webb (seen below with bestselling author Darden North at a book discussion in Waldenbooks).

"With so much going on in the world it's easy to forget how many lives are being affected by not being able to read and write well," says Webb, but he is determined to use the various platforms he is given to not only keep the awareness on literacy but bring others together to do the same.

In May 2009, ABC News reported that about 30 million Americans have trouble reading and writing. "There is no way I can reach all the people that need help," Webb admits, "but I am taking advantage of every opportunity to not only mention the problem but network with individuals who care about being a part of the solution."

Since 1999, Webb (seen below with a classroom and associates at Pearl High School in Mississippi) has been working in classrooms promoting visual and literary art and made his services available to non-profit organizations and others who wish to shine an all-important light on the subject and importance of reading. "Mississippi has had one of the highest rates for illiteracy, teenage pregnancy, obesity and high school drop-outs for a number of years," says Webb. "This is something that has to be addressed on a daily bases. Those who have been given a voice have to use it in order to make a difference and impact the lives of as many as they can."

Through his radio and television show, bi-monthly Conversations Magazine, the numerous chapters of the Conversations Book Club, his blog as well as articles and commentaries, he is introducing the world to authors of various genres and interests as well as discussing ways that those who are readers and non-readers can come together and join what Webb refers to as an "addiction to books."

He realizes that there is no one way to address the problem. "We all like different things," Webb says, "so it is our job as literary soldiers to find ways in order to reach those who are in need of help." Publications such as Crunk Magazine, Hype Magazine, S.T.I.L.L. Magazine and Nu South Magazines have also enlisted into the service to promote the importance of reading.


In order to tie all of his literary components together, Webb (seen above during a book discussion of Platinum-selling recording artist Corey "C-Murder" Miller's bestselling novel DEATH AROUND THE CORNER at Barnes & Noble) created the "Do The Write Thang" Campaign (see http://www.dothewritethang.com) Thus far Webb has joined with allies in over 30 states, including bestselling and up-and-coming authors, celebrities in tv and radio as well as recognizable names and faces in sports(including Tray Cheney of HBO's The Wire, Derrick Hargrove of MTV 50 CENT: The Money & The Power, Korto Momolu of Bravo's Project Runway, numerous cast members from VH1's I WANT TO WORK FOR DIDDY, Recording artists Nappy Roots and more). They are hosting and supporting what are called "Reading Parties" that provide networking for book lovers but also discussions as to how we can work together in order to help others. Webb is also hosting a series of town-hall style meetings in-person and through his radio show addressing issues that everyone are dealing with, offering solutions along the way.

One of the most popular tools that Webb is utilizing is a touring event called "Art, Books & Beats" (http://www.artbooksandbeats.com) During these events those involved in the various forms of the arts can come together with musicians and authors/booksellers to create an atmosphere that will attract a variety of groups that may not otherwise come together. Admission is free to these events. HunidRacks Energy Drink based out of California is the official energy drink of the literary campaign.

In order to cover travel, lodging and venue costs during this literary warfare, Webb is donating 50% of his artwork sales, 100% of his Hip Hop & Books compilation cd sales as well as 100% of his organization's newest Word Search e-book to help take care of the expenses. A website has also been setup using Give Forward in Chicago, IL (www.giveforward.org/thewritestuff).

For more information about the war Cyrus A. Webb and his associates are waging against illiteracy, contact Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Also visit http://www.dothewritethang.com.

Comedian/Community Leader Ced Delaney Joins The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign

Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce that Comedian/Community Leader Ced Delaney has joined The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign.

"It's great to have those from so many backgrounds joining our coalition," says Cyrus A. Webb, Founder of The Write Stuff. Delaney was introduced to the project by Production Consultant Herschel Dixon, and was excited to come on board.

"Ced realizes the importance of giving back," says Dixon, "and he is always looking for ways to use his celebrity to make a difference."

The resume of Ced Delaney is an impressive one. He has performed in cities across America as well as Europe, and has hosted tours with the best of the best in comedy including Rickey Smiley, Cedric The Entertainer, Steve Harvey, and Dave Chappelle.

Delaney has also been co-host of several radio morning shows and is a regular guest on BET’s “Comic View”. while hosting monthly comedy nights at Workplay called The “Ced Delaney COMedy Nite”, and “Tickle Tuesdays” at Comedy Club Stardome.

In addition to his professional life, he is also devoted to giving back to the community, beginning the Be A Man Foundation, a mentoring program for teen males to help them become better men and productive citizens. The organization tackles areas of literacy, self worth, and community involvement. In addition to his work with the Be A Man Foundation, Ced is also very active with the Big Brothers program.

"Reading is everything," says Ced. "If you can't read, you can't function. How can you get where you're going without reading?" The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign couldn't agree more.

The official website for The Write Stuff is http://www.thewritestufftv.com. To find out more information on Ced Delaney, visit http://www.ceddelaney.com. To see how you can get involved in the work of The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign, contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or Herschel Dixon at 502.994.7852.

Recording artists with The Write Stuff get support from www.hiphopgivesback.org

When Shadow Play Entertainment President Cyrus A. Webb announced the creation of America's first literary reality show (The Write Stuff) in late 2008, he knew that it would be something that attracted the attention of those outside of writing as well. After all, one of the most important aspects of a good show is the music that accompanies it, and Webb knew he had the chance to do something special with the songs that were a part of this new project.

"We wanted the music and the artists to be just as unique as the concept of the show itself," says Webb, 33, "but we wanted to make sure that the songs were by those who shared our passion for literacy as well." To begin the process, he first went to recording artists he had worked with in the past that were a part of his literacy campaign called Hip Hop and Books. This included Jack Squad, Jon Boy (VH1's The White Rapper Show), Eddie Wright, Dj Down South and Omega Red. Next he went to The Patrick Smith Band who have been supporters of Shadow Play Entertainment since 2004.

Why so many, though, from the Hip Hop community? "Hip Hop is more than just what is glamorized on tv and in some music," says Larry Washington, Asst. Music Producer for The Write Stuff project. "Hip Hop is changing and just as diverse as other genres of music. The artists with The Write Stuff reflect that."


Another organization that has been created to showcase the positive side of Hip Hop is www.hiphopgivesback.org. Created by Mike D and Konata J, HipHopGivesBack.org has set itself as the premiere catalyst committed to cultivating the awareness of the positive efforts, endeavors,and accomplishments of Hip Hop Culture and its communities. Through its website it hopes to remove negative reinforcements that have been placed upon Hip Hop Culture and its communities by bringing you stories of programs, events and priceless moments that are the result of positivity within. It is now supporting The Write Stuff Reality Show and the artists that are a part of it.

"The world is not going to fix itself," says Mike D. "I think it is necessary for those of us who have been blessed in certain positions, to get the ball rolling. This collaboration is the start of a movement that will assist the future(children) in forming the future." Konata J adds this: "The collaboration between www.HipHopgivesBack.org & The Write Stuff is an example of the forward thinking that will bring about progress and change in essential areas, including literacy with urban youth and the promotion of programs. This will contribute to the overall improvement of literacy excellence in our communities." Hip Hop Gives Back will be cross-promoting the artists from The Write Stuff through its site as well.

Dj Down South, a recording artist from Mississippi is also pleased to see the marriage of music and reading. "I'm glad to be a part of projects that can show more than one side of the music that Hip hop produces. The Write Stuff is going to break alot of records, and I think that will include those that have to do with Hip Hop as well."

Other organizations that have partnered with Shadow Play Entertainment and The Write Stuff in their effort to show the positive side of music include For The People Productions, Crunk Magazine, Hype Magazine, Industry Standard Magazine, The Common Ground Foundation and The Hip Hop Chronicle.

To find out more about those who are working to make a difference along with The Write Stuff or to see how you can get involved, visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com or contact Herschel Dixon at 1.502.994.7852.

More Praise for The Write Stuff

“I believe that writing is the most powerful catalyst of ideas, feelings, philosophies and change. It also provides the context for emotions and themes that create the stimulating cinematic and television programming society craves. Reality television is no exception to the rule, as many reality programs are “scripted reality”; dependent upon a writer/producer to craft a compelling story from the ordinary. I am thrilled that Cyrus Webb has created a vehicle for talented writers to develop and emerge in front of the world. The reality of the struggles that writers endure in order to birth a great story is dramatic enough, but the unique personalities who endeavor to bear that struggle and commit to the craft will surely provide riveting television. ‘The Write Stuff’ is the right stuff!” --- Roland Jefferson, Bestselling author of Damaged Goods & White Coat Fever http://www.rolandjefferson.com



“As a national literacy and mentoring organization, Everybody Wins! USA is proud to support The Write Stuff. Learning to read at a young age is critical, especially to the development of good writing skills. We are so pleased to see that your show puts a much needed focus on the importance of literacy and writing and we hope it inspires many people, young and old, to support literacy and young writers all around the country.” --- Rich Greif, National Executive Director of Everybody Wins! USA (http://www.everybodywins.org)

Larry Washington joins The Write Stuff as Asst. Musical Director/Promoter

Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce that Promoter Larry Washington has joined The Write Stuff Reality Show as Asst. Music Producer and Asst. Events Promoter for the project.

"Washington, who is the President of 1 Flo Entertainment, has an ear for music and a true eye for talent," says Stanley Clark, one of the producers for The Write Stuff. He has worked with Larry over the years and introduced him to the Executive Producer to see how they could bring his talent to the project. "We are glad to have someone like him working with us."

As Asst. Music Producer for The Write Stuff, Larry will work with the producers in selecting the music for the show as well as help in the assembling of The Write Stuff soundtrack that will be released this summer. In addition to this role, look for him to be instrumental in The Write Stuff tour that will help promote the show beginning in late May 2009. To find out more information about Larry and the work he is doing, visit http://www.myspace.com/1floent or call 1.662.891.7983.

To find out about others involved with The Write Stuff or the overall project, visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com.

Sat. Oct. 23, 2009: Rapper/Author Jacki-O Brings The Message Of Her Novel To Miami

The female Miami rapper Jacki-O hit the world stage being known for her outspokenness, lyrics and style, but in 2008 she shocked many by doing something unexpected: hitting the rode promoting her debut novel GROWN AND GANGSTA.


The book was an instant success, both with fans of the rapper's music and book lovers who were being introduced to her for the first time. Now almost one year later, Jacki-O is bringing the message of her book to her homecity of Miami in order put a spotlight on the importance of reading.

On Friday, October 23, 2009, she will host a booksiging/meet and greet at the Martini Bar (5701 Sunset Dr. Ste. 124a * Sunset Place) in Miami beginning at 6p.m.


"The book is an urban version of the show Friends," says Cyrus Webb,34. He is the lead publicist of the author/recording artist and his organization, Shadow Play Entertainment, is co-sponsoring the event. Webb took the lead on Jacki-O's tour in 2008 and has worked with the publishing company since 2007. His book club, Conversations, has also highlighted the book in the past. "GROWN AND GANGSTA chronicles the journey of six friends as they deal with their past, try to live through the challenges of the present and search for the hope offered by the future."

Admission to the event is free,however, the book is $15.00. Joining Jacki-O at the event will be up-and-coming author Mr. Mean Mug, whose book TATTOO TEARS will also be available for only $10 and Mississippi rapper C. Watts aka Playa Connected (both seen below).



Jacki-O, Mr. Mean Mug and C. Watts are hoping that their involvement in this literary event will show that you can be cool and still educated. They are all joining with Webb in participating in National Day of Reading on Sat. Nov. 21, 2009, again showcasing the importance of reading.

To find out more about the upcoming literary event in Miami or to schedule interviews, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or Herschel Dixon at 502.291.4201.