"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