Hello Beautiful People!

It is good to be back on the scene.

As you know, I had to go on hiatus to get married!  And it was one of the best days of my life.  As a friend said to me, you are now “ThatMarriedKellieGirl”!    I am truly happy and still on cloud 9.  I will definitely have to give you guys a recap with some photos and my suggestions on planning a wedding.  I will admit, after a while, I was just ready to get married because our lives were consumed by the wedding.  And the closer the big day approached, the more hectic things were…either something  falls through or someone cancels.  However, my biggest challenge was my guest list and the seating arrangement. You try to accommodate as many family requests as possible, but the reality is that everyone can’t come.   Weddings are very personal affairs.  So I wanted to be surrounded by people who I know love  and support us.  Marriage isn’t a game or to be entered into lightly.  You are entering a covenant with person before God and the whole community of family and friends.  So when I said my vows, I became very emotional because I took those words to heart.  When I look at my family and my husband’s family, we are standing on the shoulders of collectively 80 years of marriage.  And I know neither have perfect marriages, but I admire their commitment to each other and their families.  I believe we have a great foundation to build upon, and just as important, accountability.

So me and my boo and have now upgraded to husband and wife status, and we are excited to step out!    Hopefully, we will see you out there.  And you might see us at one the fabulous events below. 

Love ya’ll!

Peace and Blessings, ThatKellieGirl

VENUS AND SERENA takes an unfiltered look into the remarkable lives of the greatest sister-act professional tennis has ever seen. In a sport where they were not welcomed, the indomitable Williams sisters faced the opposition with grace and courage not only breaking new ground for female and African American athletes everywhere, but dominating the women’s game for over a decade. The film tells the inspiring story of how these two women, against all odds, but with the help of visionary parents, made it to the top.

May 17-23

West End Cinema

2301 M St NW

Click here for showtimes and tickets

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The 18th annual Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival kicks off this week featuring today’s top jazz artists over three nights. This three-night event is hosted by Dee Dee Bridgewater.

May 16-May 18

2700 F St NW

Thursday, May 16–saxophonist Tineke Postma and her Quartet, Pianist Amina Claudine Myers and her Trio, and NEA Jazz Master vocalist Sheila Jordan and vocalist Jay Clayton

Friday, May 17–Regina Carter’s Reverse Thread, pianist Helen Sung and her Quintet, and the vocal trio Tillery featuring Rebecca Martin, Gretchen Parlato, and Becca Stevens

Saturday, May 18–flutist Nicole Mitchell’s Ice Crystal, vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant, and drummer Cindy Blackman Santana’s Exploration

Click here for the time and tickets

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The Sol Power formula is Afro.Latin.Brazilian.House.Disco.Funk. This includes cumbia, afrobeat, coupe decale, samba, soca, afro-house, and much more.  The Sol Power All-Stars always extend a warm welcome to top shelf selector Lil’ Dave of Philadelphia’s Ill Vibe Collective.

Friday, May 17

Tropicalia

2001 14th St NW

10PM-3AM

Free

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Join Life Coach Tiffany L. Scott for the Sisters Supporting Sisters Walk: Because I am my sister’s keeper.  To reach your goals, you must get in MOTION and take ACTION. It is known that we can do more TOGETHER than we can do alone.  Just bring your water, your walking shoes and be ready to GET MOVING!

Saturday, May 18

Watkins Regional Park

301 Watkins Park Dr, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774

Free, but must register here

8AM-9:15AM

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Over 100 art museums across North America will offer free or reduced admission, special programs, or other initiatives as part of their celebrations of Art Museum Day on May 18 in conjunction with International Museum Day, organized annually around the world by the International Council of Museums. This day emphasizes the lasting impact art museums have on their communities, highlights the value of the visual arts in society, and provides a range of opportunities for audiences to engage with the diverse programs that art museums offer.

Saturday, May 18 

Click here for a list of museums offering free or discounted admission

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Come enjoy an evening of Jazz and splendor with Akua Allrich at the beautiful Mandarin Oriental! ”Akua Allrich is a fresh new voice whose stage presence, vocal chops and joy in performing are gaining notice wherever she performs. She’ll appear with Chris Grasso, piano…”

Saturday, May 18

Mandarin Oriental

1330 Maryland Ave SW

8PM-Midnight

There is no cover charge, but there is a $25 per person minimum charge.

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All the Jheri Curl Funk, Champagne Soul, Lazer Boogie and SLOW JAM goodness from 1977 – 1987 you expect from us, as well as: playertastic tuxes, corsages, taffeta dresses, Mr. G, the “Picture Man”, and the coronation of the Axel F Prom King & Queen.

Saturday, May 18

Liv

2001 11th St NW

10PM-3AM

10 bucks

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Beltsville Day is a celebration of community with performances on two stages, food by local non-profit organization, games and rides for kids, lots of displays by local businesses, demonstrations by the Beltsville VFD and the Prince George’s County Beltsville Police. The event is free and open to the public.

Sunday, May 19

Beltsville Community Center, 3900 Sellman Road, Beltsville, MD

Noon-5PM

Free

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Hello Beautiful People!

The time is winding down for me! I am literally 39 days away from the big day. Wow! You always dream of this day, and it is finally here. It feels surreal, but I am really excited and happy for the future.  I believe half the battle is finding the right person– the person that really gets you. 

For the most part, I’ve been pretty organized and I’ve managed my stress fairly well.  And it’s great to  have a support circle reassuring me and helping me out along the way, and I am so grateful for it.   Besides, as we get closer, my motto is “don’t nobody bring me no bad news!”    :-)

So to change pace, it is nice to hear new music from King . “In the Meantime” is a silky smooth song. As always, their great lyrics and luscious harmonies evoke a feeling of being with that certain someone. For me, it makes me think about cruising on a beautiful summer evening with my sweetie.  

So check out King’s “In the Meantime”. Enjoy!

Reblogged from That Kellie Girl:

Hello Good People!

Happy New Year to each of you. ThatKellieGirl apologizes for being MIA, but I’ve been in #weddingworld! Ever since January 1st, I have been in overdrive planning for my upcoming nuptials. I’ve had some challenges with vendors, deleting names off the guest list, and thinking about how much we are going to spend! But deep inside, I feel like everything is falling into place, and that it will be a life-changing event. And to see family and close friends step up to show their love and support has meant so much to me. Words can’t express the love and endearment I have for each of these folks. I am totally excited about this next phase in my life.

So if you were like me, I was very disappointed about the Inauguration ticket snafu. I was ready to purchase my tickets on the designated release date. So I was dismayed that the tickets were released a day before. Even with an early release, I would purchased tickets if I wouldn’t have been on an airplane returning from Ohio!!! Then when I received an invitation to purchase parade tickets, originally sold for $25 now $250, that just added insult to injury. *smh* Even though ThatKellieGirl might not be at an official Inaugural Ball, there are still some great and affordable events in order to celebrate the inauguration of President Barack Obama. So check out these events below.

And for those who want to dress-up, star gaze or ball out, check out these lists of Inaugural Balls here and here and here.

And remember, in honor of MLK Day, sign-up for the National Day of Service. There are service events all weekend.

Peace, Love & Blessings, ThatKellieGirl

An 11-year-old boy gets a crash course in what it means to be a man when he spends a day with the ex-convict uncle he idolizes. Starring Common, Michael Rainey Jr. and Dennis Haysbert

Opens January 18

AMC Hoffman

206 Swamp Fox Road Alexandria, VA

AMC Magic Johnson

800 Shoppers Way Largo, MD

Click here for times and tickets

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Majora Carter, president of the Majora Carter Group, who will be the featured speaker at the Anacostia Community Museum’s 28th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Program. The event includes a performance by Grammy-nominated progressive hip-hop artist, Christylez Bacon.

Friday, January 18

National Museum of Natural History

Baird Auditorium

10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW

7PM

FREE

RSVP at acmrsvp@si.edu or call (202) 633-4875

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An integral part of the DC dance community for over 20 years, KanKouran presents their annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with Diamono (Roots), which is an electrifying, athletic and family-friendly performance of traditional West African dance and drumming.

January 18-19

Dance Place

3225 8th Street, NE

8PM

22 bucks

Get tickets here

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Born to R&B/soul music royalty, most people know her simply as the daughter of late soul music legend, Donny Hathaway. But there is more to her than that. A trained pianist and vocalist, she is a graduate of the Berklee College of Music and her career has spanned two decades. Twenty-one years after the release of her first LP, her career continues to thrive.

Friday, January 18

Howard Theater

620 T St NW

Doors open at 6PM; Show begins at 8PM

55 bucks in advance

60 bucks day of show

Click here for tickets

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Peter Rosenberg of Hot 97 and MTV 2 presents The DMV Ball bringing together the best in DC hip hop. Featuring Oddisee, Diamond District, Sean Born and more

Friday, January 18

Howard Theater

620 T St NW

Doors open at 11:30PM; Show starts at 11:59AM

15 bucks in advance

20 bucks at the door

Get tickets here

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Four days, six events, one city! A magical weekend of six unprecedented Inauguration events January 18-21, 2013 in Washington, D.C. This celebratory weekend will culminate as we dine, dance, and toast at our Black Tie Gala at O Mansion on January, 21, 2013 at 8PM. Fittingly, the gala is themed “Dream” to mark the President’s Inaugural swearing in on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Friday, January 18

Inauguration Kick Off & Cocktail Mixer

Hosted by: Mya

Live Performance by: R&B/Soul Artist Anthony David, JC, V. Rich, Vo Era, and M.A.R.S

Tabaq Bistro, 1336 U Street NW

7PM

Get tickets here

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Saturday, January 19

Young & Powerful Roundtable Political Forum

Howard University

1PM

Get tickets here

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Saturday, January 19

Young & Powerful Variety & Comedy Show

Hosted by Comedian Damon Williams, Homegrown Hilarity and Inside Jokes

Liv, 2001 11th Street NW

6PM

Get tickets here

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Sunday, January 20

Young & Powerful Presidential Brunch

Speakers: Roland Martin, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, and Dr. Ben Chavis

L’Enfant Plaza Hotel

420 L’Enfant Plaza SW

11AM

Get tickets here

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Sunday, January 20

Young & Powerful Semi-Formal

Ultra, 911 F. Street NW

8PM

Get tickets here

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Monday, January 21

Black Tie Gala & Rising Star Awards Ceremony

Featuring Special Guests: Crisette Michelle, Jeff Johnson, and many more…

O Street Mansion, 2020 O. Street NW

8PM

Get tickets here

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Wylie K’s & Friends presents Wylie K’s Winter Groove from January 18 to 19th

Friday January 18, 2013

Kickoff at Ultra Bar

911 F Street NW

10PM – 3AM

Hosted by: Taz ; Music by Dee Jay Casper, DJ Quicksilva

Open bar 10PM – 11PM

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Saturday January 19

Wylie K presents Vintage 1975 Opera

Ultra Lounge 1400 I Street NW

3PM-8PM

Hosted by: Lorenzo Ice Tea Thomas & LC Music by: Dee Jay Casper, DJ Phife, DJ Schemes

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Sunday January 20

Wylie K Presents “RETRO” the ultimate late night bowling experience aka “THE INAUGURAL BOWL”. Unlimited Bowling and Complimentary Bowling Shoe Rental

Marlow Heights AMF Bowling Center

4717 St Barnabas Rd Capital Heights, MD 20743

10PM – 2AM Music By Dee Jay Casper & DJ Deuce Juan

Click here for tickets to all these events

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STEP-OFF and BEGIN THE OFFICIAL 6th ANNUAL MLK PEACEWALK, proceed up MLK Ave. to (Shepard Park) at King and Malcolm X Aves.

Saturday, January 19

Anacostia Green Line

2500 MLK Ave SE

10AM

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5 years ago, in a small Eritrean restaurant on U St called Dahlak, Fatback was born. So, as we prepare to put the Fatback party to rest in next month’s grand finale, we thought it fitting to do one more jam, lean and funky, at the place where it all started. Looking for only the most dedicated, hand-clapping, foot-stomping, tambourine-shaking soul dancers who aren’t afraid to break a sweat and break it down. It’s a tight space and there won’t be any room for wall flowers. Quite literally.

Saturday, January 19

Dahlak

1771 U Street NW

10PM – 3AM

5 bucks

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Magic Sessions presents a special MLK/Inaugural weekend event with a live performance by Josh Milan (Formerly of Blaze) doing his hot newly released single, “Children Of The World” and more! Dance floor orchestrated by Tee Alford (Funky People), DJ Erv (Deep Down Productions), and Andrew Hogans (Motions).

Saturday, January 19

Work It Out Studio

1020 U St NW (On the corner of 11th & U st, enter on U st)

15 bucks in advance; Available until 3PM on 1/19

20 bucks at the door

10PM

Get tickets here

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The Wonder Years- Special Birthday Celebration for 9th Wonder

Sunday, January 20

Ozio’s

1813 M St NW

2-9PM

10 bucks

RSVP here

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Featuring actor, producer and director Charles S. Dutton, The Obama Effect focuses on a man who immerses himself in the Obama campaign after experiencing health and life challenge. Dutton will attend the screening.

Sunday, January 20

Anacostia Community Museum

1901 Fort Place, SE

5:30PM

FREE

RSVP at acmrsvp@si.edu or call (202) 633-4875

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The Kennedy Center and Georgetown University Present Let Freedom Ring! featuring Smokey Robinson and the Let Freedom Ring Choir in a Musical Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Sunday, January 20

Kennedy Center

Hall of Nations

2700 F Street NW

6PM

FREE

Tickets will be distributed two (2) per person in line at the Hall of Nations, beginning at 4 p.m.

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iBlack present the West Wing Inaugural Ball. iBlack is the leading lifestyle portal for black professionals in the DC area. We host up to 30 unique theme oriented events each month for black professionals.

Sunday, January 20

L’Enfant Plaza Hotel

480 L’Enfant Plaza SW

8PM

40 bucks

Get tickets here

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Pre-Inaugural Soul Concert features Choklate, Yahzarah and Snugie Stocks

Saturday, January 20

The Carlyle

411 John Carlyle Street

Alexandria, VA

Doors open at 7PM: Show starts at 8PM

25 bucks in advance

30 bucks at door

Get tickets here

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A night of revelry to celebrate the re-election of President Obama. This special Creatives twist will feature food, djs, live performances and inauguration-inspired cocktails. Plus, everyone is encouraged to come dressed in your best 1960′s mod-inspired evening look.

Sunday, January 21

Montserrat House

2016 9th St NW

8PM

44 bucks

Get tickets here

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The Inauguration Sound Presents Familiar Faces, Suttle Thoughts, Black Alley, Secret Society

Sunday, January 20

Cafe Asia

1720 I Street NW

8PM

Get tickets here

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An inauguration celebration with The Sol Power All-Stars. NO COVER, NO WORK MONDAY. Let’s ring in the next four years with style and the best dance grooves from around the world. Come sweat to the rhythms of Cuba, Brazil, Puerto Rico & West Africa. Samba Whistles, Shekeres & Cowbells welcome!

Sunday, January 20

Tropicalia

2001 14th St NW

9PM-2AM

FREE

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Four years ago, inauguration was the biggest party on the planet and it ONLY happened in DC. We’re back on the cusp again and we’ve got one of the most successful parties from four years ago returning to DC. It is All Stevie Wonder All Night Long…Obama’s favorite during inauguration….and yes Stevie is most definitely invited. And as of four years ago….the Obama’s are eternally on the guestlist. Get your tickets early. This one sold out last time and tix were going for $200 on craigslist.

Sunday, January 20

Liv

2001 11th St NW

9PM

Get tickets here
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Featuring DJs Sam “The Man” Burns, Chris Styles and special guest Chicago DJ Terry Hunter

Sunday, January 21

ESL

1212 18th St NW

9PM-4AM

Free before 10PM

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Come join us uptown for a drink with friends in honor of the re-election of the 44th POTUS — Barack Hussein Obama. We’ll be taking over Chez Billy on Sunday 1.20 to host you and your friends for this once in a lifetime occasion. This is an event you will regret missing! Hope to see you there!

Sunday, January 20

Chez Billy

3815 Georgia Ave NW

10PM

Get tickets here

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The Gathering- Chicago’s Base for House during the Inauguration

Sunday, January 20

House of Secrets

507 T St. NW

10PM-4AM

30 bucks

Open bar and light buffet will be served

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Fort Knox Recordings & DC Brau present The Funk 4 Peace Ball. Celebrating both MLK Jr. Day & the Second Inauguration of Barack Obama!!! DJ sets from Fort Knox artists Fort Knox Five, All Good Funk Alliance, Empresarios, Nappy Riddem and QDup Foundation.

Sunday January 20

U Street Music Hall

1115 U St NW

10PM

10 bcuks

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Dredd’s classic dance party returns just in time for MLK/Inauguration Weekend!

Sunday, January 20

Black Cat

1811 14th St NW

10PM

10 bucks

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Inauguration Day!! Click here for the program

Monday, January 21

US Capitol

11:30AM

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Inauguration Day Celebration with Raheem DeVaughn and special guests

Monday, January 21

Howard Theater

620 T St NW

Doors open at 6PM; Show starts at 8PM

20 bucks

Click here for tickets

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We had Brooklyn’s finest, DJ Spinna with us at the Main Ingredient last year and it was so nice we had to run it back again – this time in celebration of the 2nd inauguration of Barack Obama. We are touching all the bases on this night, so bring your dancing shoes.

Monday, January 21

Marvin

2007 14th St NW

8PM

FREE

Hello Everyone!

ThatKellieGirl can’t believe it is the last Friday of 2012.  Time sure does fly, but I am so happy to move forward into the new year.  New possibilities, renewed purpose and another chance…for that I am very grateful. 

And right before the new year, check out these events below.

Peace and Blessings, ThatKellieGirl

Join KC & Steven for some international flavored jams as they join the No BS Brass Band for a smokin’ show to heat up a midwinter’s night.

Friday, December 28

Tropicalia

2001 14th St NW

5 bucks

9 PM show begins

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Sam “The Man” Burns vs. Chris Burns…come dressed to sweat

Friday, December 28

U St Music Hall

1115 U St NW

Free before midnight; 10 bucks after

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RSVP to join the guestlist, and bring a friend or three for the special blend of real grown up music in a safe space: jazz, fonque, future soul, breakbeats, house, and reggae…sprinkled with a lil’ bit of love.

Friday, December 28

Chez Billy

3815 Georgia Ave NW

Free w/ RSVP here

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It’s June 1937 and the Panama Limited, bound from Chicago to New Orleans, is bouncing to the beat of the rollicking Midwest blues. Most folks are tuned in to the Joe Louis/James Braddock championship bout, but the men of the Sykes family – three generations of porters – know there’s more at stake than just a boxing title, as they battle each other, racial tensions and an uncertain future. Will the hope they get from the Brown Bomber be the fuel this family needs to make a better life or will progress tear them apart?

Through January 6

Arena Stage

1101 Sixth St SW

Get tickets schedule and tickets here

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Soul Man Lee Fields and the Expressions perform at the 930 Club.

Sunday, December 30

9:30 Club

815 V St. NW

7PM-2AM

35 bucks/ Get tickets here

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Consisting of married couple Fatin Dantzler and Aja Graydon, R&B duo Kindred the Family Soul will be at the Howard Theater.

Sunday, December 30

Howard Theater

620 T Street NW

8PM

32.50 in advance/ 37 day of show

Get tickets here

UPDATE! 

Hey Good People!

I had to come out of #weddingworld to share Chris Turner’s new video “LiquidLove”.  This song is my jam and gets me moving on the dance floor every time.  Fellow Romantic Movement artist, Jesse Boykins makes a cameo appearance in the video.  Enjoy this funky jam!  P.S. I miss ya’ll, but I will be back on the regular once I jump the broom. 

Peace and Love, ThatKellieGirl

Hello Good People!

I hope you are enjoying your vacation time as we head into the new year.  To help ring in 2013, singer Chris Turner releases a new album “Lovelife is A Challenge (a Mixtape)”.  

I was first introduced to Oakland native, Chris Turner through his song “Liquid Love“.  This song just oozes soul and funk, so I was very excited to see what Chris Turner was bringing this time to the turntable.  A part of the Romantic Movement spearheaded by Jesse Boykins III, Chris Turner released “Lovelife” on Christmas Day (also his birthday).  A classically trained singer, Chris released a beautiful album of jazz standards called “The Monk Tape” earlier this year.  He also toured with Esperanza Spaulding on her Radio Music Society in 2012.

For “Lovelife”, Chris says the album is his melodic contribution that highlights the significance of loving yourself, sharing growth, and learning to forgive.  What I love about “Lovelife” is Chris’ ability to sing with such emotion and passion.  I was quite impressed with his cover of  Sade’s “Kiss of Life” and I am feeling “flyLOVE” to get me moving on the dance floor.

Enjoy this end of the year treat! Download, listen and enjoy “Lovelife” from Chris Turner here!

Merry Christmas Eve!

The tree is up, stockings are hung, presents are gift bagged and ThatKellieGirl is finishing her baking.  Other than praying that my pies turn out right, ThatKellieGirl is jus relaxing.  To stay in the chill mode, check out  The Sure Co., Diggs Duke and DJ Apple Jac featuring Jessica Newry.

Next up is Diggs Duke.  He has released his debut project “Gravity” which is now on my playlist.  Per usual, jazzy, soulful and you should check out.  Listen here.

And I couldn’t leave without sharing some holiday music.  One of my favorite holidays albums is “A Charlie Brown Christmas: Vince Guaraldi Trio”. Well, DJ and  producer Apple Jac covered the holiday classic “Christmas Time Is Here” featuring Jessica Newry.  All I can say is…”lovely”. 

Check it out here. 

Enjoy the rest of your day!

Merry Christmas Beautiful People!

I know some people were waiting to see if the world was going to end, but it didn’t so ThatKellieGirl is very happy to get back to the holidays.

This weekend is the last opportunity to do your last-minute shopping. I will be picking up a small few items for the little kids, but that’s it. I don’t do well with the mayhem of Christmas shopping.  I usually stay far, far way from it. So I will be making an early morning run to avoid any foolishness. Other than that, this weekend is shaping up very nicely.  There are some great events to check out .

You can start with Amel Larrieux at that Howard Theater and Syleena Johnson at Blue’s Alley today (12/21).   And StepAfrika! closes out this weekend at the Atlas Performing Arts Theater.

Catch some other events below!

Peace and Blessings,

ThatKellieGirl

Os Kuduristas is coming to DC! Os Kuduristas is a global program to promote and raise awareness of Angolan Kuduro music, dance, culture, and lifestyle. The Os Kuduristas dancers will be in the building Friday, December 21 to battle local crews the Lionz of Zion and Urban Artistry. Soundtrack provided by special guest DJ Underdog and Shrine residents, The Sol Power All-Stars.

Friday, December 21

Tropicalia

2001 14th St NE, lower level

7PM

FREE

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Have a True School Christmas with DJ CUZZIN B, DJ FACE, & DJ MARCNFINIT will be spinning at Fever Bar & Lounge. Check out the illest party dedicated to the best in 80′s 90′s early 2000′s music spanning every genre.

Friday, December 21 (Every 3rd Friday)

Fever Bar & Lounge

816 H St NE

10PM-2AM

5 bucks

BRING A TOY AND GET IN FREE…..COME PARTY FOR A PURPOSE!!!

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The Hamilton presents Feliz Navidad Fiesta with the Empresarios, Nayas and Congo Sanchez

Friday, December 21

The Hamilton

600 14th St NW

8:30PM

20 bucks

Get tickets here

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Ja Sun: “a treasure rapshow”..A collection of musical short stories that highlight the social and political perspective of a 30 year old Anacostia Native Son.

Friday, December 21

The HIVE 2.0

1231 Good Hope Road, SE

7:30PM

FREE

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Great friends. Great food. Two sweet bars. Great space. Great vibes. And a surprise or two…The Rhythm. And The Soul with DJ Lance Reynolds.

Friday, December 21

Chez Billy

3815 Georgia Avenue, NW

10PM-2AM

FREE but must RSVP

RSVP here

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The Funk Ark plays Tropicalia with NYC Afrobeat counterparts, EMEFE, featuring Antibalas drummer, Miles Arntzen. This is going to be a party that you won’t want to miss. Make a night of it and catch a DJ set by DCs own Fort Knox Five afterwards!

Saturday, December 22

Tropicalia

2001 14th St NW, lower level

8PM

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Give thanks! For tidings of activator, pop-locking and nostalgic merriment are upon us!  And we are also celebrating the 40th b-day of our Chief Rocka, It Girl, Party Mistress and Head Diva in Charge Risikat Okedeyi!!!  With light hearts and good cheer, let us party to the best selections of Holiday Funk, Spiced Soul and Christmas Ball Boogie.  DJs Jahsonic, Stylus and Adrian Loving as the three wise men.  Kat as THE BIRTHDAY GIRL. Hey Ed as Santa’s helper. And Liv Nightclub as the warm holiday hearth.

Saturday, December 22

Liv

2001 11th St NW

10PM-3AM

$5 before 12am / $10 after

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International Zouk and Kizomba Fever, Christmas Edition…KIZOMBA-ZOUK-KOMPA-SEMBA-AFRO-CARIBBEAN-LATIN-TOP40-AFROHOUSE & MORE by DJs Vasco and guest DJs

Saturday, December 22

Secret Lounge

1414 9th St NW

LADIES FREE BEFORE 11PM

$10 BEFORE MIDNIGHT $20 AFTER

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ThatKellieGirl and Cathy Hughes, Founder of Radio One and TV One

ThatKellieGirl was elated to be a part of  the Verizon Wireless Women’s Small Business Empowerment Series featuring Cathy Hughes, Founder of Radio One and TV One and Sheila Johnson, entrepreneur and philanthropist yesterday at the National Museum of Women.  These women of distinction were interviewed in front of an audience to encourage and empower women about building their businesses and following their passion.

ThatKellieGirl had an opportunity to interview Cathy Hughes and Sheila Johnson before the event.  Both women were very down to earth and willing to offer words of wisdom about achieving your goals.

Co-founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET) in 1979, Ms. Johnson talked about the importance of knowing who you are and following your passion.  This has led her to becoming the first African-American woman to be an owner or partner in three professional sports franchises– the Washington Capitals, the Washington Wizards, and the Washington Mystics. Johnson is also the founder and CEO of Salamander Hospitality which has three locations. She shared that the salamander is her brand because it is the only animal that can walk through fire and still live.  Ms. Johnson also shared that she recently became a vegan and plans to build a clinic on her resort to promote healthy living and how to cook vegan cuisine.

Ms. Johnson now ranks second only to Oprah Winfrey among the wealthiest black women in the United States and seventh among all African-Americans. President Barack Obama recently appointed her to the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, and she also sits on the board of numerous foundations and universities.

Once on stage, Ms. Johnson was interviewed by former BET reporter, Jacque Reid.  Ms. Johnson talked about how she always had a mind for business.  Born in  McKeesport, Pennsylvania, her father was a neurosurgeon and her mother was an accountant.  And both were accomplished pianists. At an early age, Ms. Johnson began playing the violin and took it very seriously.  As a musician, she learned about discipline which is a necessary characteristic to succeed in business.  Eventually, she began to teach others how to play violin, which was very profitable for her.   Other jewels that Ms. Johnson shared were: watch who you bring into your circle, be selective who you listen to, be bold and be secure within yourself.

When I spoke with Cathy Hughes, she was very gracious and openly advised women to seek knowledge that is useful in building their companies. She talked about taking advantage of wireless and mobile devices to advance their products and services.  And she was emphatic about seeing a woman follow in her footsteps–  another woman in the media lane that she has pioneered in.  Hughes was the first African-American female to head a publicly traded corporation.   Unfortunately, she is still the only woman at the table in her industry.

Ms. Hughes also talked to me about developing skill sets based on your circumstances.   Every situation is different, so there isn’t a formula.  She said that women have to have an openness to new information and learning.  One must seek knowledge and seek out individuals who have done it.  However, there are so few women, so you might have to look at examples from white males, but you have to take from each of these individuals.  You also have to have a thirst for knowledge and to learn.  And you must compete regionally, nationally and globally, so equip yourself with the skills to meet your unique goals.  Ms. Hughes also recommended that all women in business to read Steve Jobs’ biography.

DC’s “Washington Insider” LaToya Foster interveiwed Cathy Hughes on stage.  Ms. Hughes talked about when she first started Radio One, women opened their arms to help her.  Dr. Dorothy Height told her she would be, and became, a lifetime member.   However, the images and perception of Black women is that we don’t work together.  She admires Sheila Johnson and Oprah Winfrey, and Michelle Obama is the perfect image.  However, we see incorrect images from the Housewives of Atlanta and Basketball Wives.  Ms. Hughes closed out by encouraging ladies to stay ahead in business by paying attention to the bottom line and staying on the front lines, and helping more people than hurting more people  in life.

The networking event was sponsored by Verizon Wireless, which took networking to another level!  For our convenience, name badges were created with QR codes for all guests.  With the push off a button, I scanned a namebadge and their contact information was automatically imported  into my smart phone!  Very impressive Verizon Wireless.   Also while networking, guests also could peruse a historical timeline display on the evolution of wireless phones.   Attendees were also able to win several high tech gifts such as the Windows MicroSoft Phone and tablets.  And the first 150 guests received a complimentary gift bag.  Overall, I was also very impressed with professionalism of staff and the coordination of the event.

After this event, ThatKellieGirl was energized and inspired to take on the world! :-)

And a special shout-out to Ms. Darnice Wright for providing additional coverage of the event.

Good Morning Good Folks!

For those of you who missed the 121212 Concert, you missed a stunning performance from Alicia Keys.  America’s Darling gave a heartfelt performance of “Brand New Me” and “No One”.  For ThatKellieGirl, it was truly the stand out performance of the concert.  So on the heels of the 121212 Concert, Alicia has released the video for “Brand New Me.”  This is an empowering song for anyone trying to move forward.

And DC’s Darling, Carolyn Malachi released her new video “Free Your Mind” in her efforts to to fund the education of students in developing countries.  For every view of the “Free Your Mind” music video and download of the song via GooglePlay, one hour of class time will be donated to students in East Africa, courtesy of The School Fund’s corporate sponsors. The goal is to provide 10,000 class hours per month for six months.  So let’s get to downloading to help a child.