Family Tragedy Drives Her To Her Knees – But Is Anybody There?
Ellaville, GA – Jackie Carpenter was an ordinary businesswoman and mother when her phone rang one day in 2008. The news was about as bad as it could be: her son had been accused of murder and arrested. The story of how she brought her family through the crisis is captured in her first book, The Bridge: Between Cell Block A and a Miracle is Psalm 91 (Xulon Publishing).
Equally gripping is her second book, Georgia Justice: A Story to Faith. It is the heart-rending story of the overwhelming fear she felt when she realized her faith did not measure up when tragedy struck. It is a powerful testimony to the spiritual strength this small-town girl found in the promises of Psalm 91 and what she did to build up her faith during the agonizing time that led up to her son’s trial. It is a book that Jackie hopes will be a resource for anyone facing a crisis in their life.
Life is full of surprises: Jackie Carpenter would never have imagined that her life would be on the big screen, but Gift Box Productions, in conjunction with Triple Horse Studios (who brought us Courageous) is scheduled to release the movie Georgia Justice in the fall. Based on her books and her real-life journey to unshakable faith, it stars Francine Locke. For more information on the movie please visit www.georgiajusticemovie.com.
Jackie Carpenter thought she had a pretty good life. She had a loving husband, two grown sons, four wonderful grandchildren, good health and a host of other blessings. But when her daughter-in-law called to say her son had been arrested, everything changed. He had been protecting his property when he tragically, accidentally shot and killed a would-be thief. Charged with felony murder, the family was in for a long, hard fight to prove his innocence.
Psalm 91 became Jackie Carpenter’s tenuous link to hope. She was brought to her knees over and over again as the trial stretched out into months of legal maneuvering. When the verdict of “not guilty” was reached in 2009, it was as if God – and Psalm 91 – had built her a bridge from Cell Block A back to a normal, happy family existence.
Jackie Carpenter has been a featured guest on television, radio, and in newspaper articles. For more information on this author and her miraculous story of faith, hope and love, please visit her website at: www.bridgetoamiracle.com
I Am That Child paints real faces of AIDS, poverty and sexism as encountered on Cameroon Mission
Houston, TX – What do Mission and Outreach really look like? How tall are they? Male or female? And when does ‘putting faith into action’ mean reaching beyond our wallets or outside of a comfortable lifestyle?
Elizabeth Geitz helps answer these questions as she fleshes out the human faces of AIDS, poverty and sexism as experienced first-hand in an orphanage in Cameroon, West Africa. Her new book, I Am That Child: Changing Hearts & Changing the World (Morehouse), recounts what happened when she and two female colleagues travelled into this developing nation to work with Sister Jane Mankaa, considered by many to be the Mother Teresa of Africa.
Sister Jane will join the author in a tour to launch the new book and Geitz is also scheduling workshops and speaking appearances both before and after Sister Jane’s visit, some of which are listed below.
Geitz, a popular author and Episcopal priest, makes the political personal in this hard-to-put-down riveting narrative about global poverty, gender, and race relations. She illustrates that cross-cultural relationships among people of faith can change our world… one person at a time.
Along the way, Geitz takes a hard look at race and cultural privilege and finds hope for reconciliation back home. Especially useful with church study groups and social justice/outreach campaigns, the book concludes with study and resource guides to help readers engage global poverty efforts and build community across continents or across the street.
Elizabeth Geitz’s books have been hailed by people as diverse as Desmond Tutu, Phyllis Tickle, and John Berendt. With a focus on justice issues, her writings speak to people with the passion to make a difference in the world.
Author Elizabeth Geitz Appearances
All Profits will be donated to the Good Shepherd Home for Children in Cameroon, West Africa
July 9th and 10th, 2012 “Many Paths – One Journey: A Cameroonian Odyssey” ECW Triennial Workshops at the 77th General Convention of The Episcopal Church Indianapolis, Indiana, 4:00pm – 5:30pm.
About The Author
The Reverend Canon Elizabeth Geitz is an Episcopal priest and author of numerous books, including Fireweed Evangelism: Christian Hospitality in a Multi-faith World; Soul Satisfaction: Reclaiming the Divine Feminine; Gender and the Nicene Creed, and is co-editor of Women’s Uncommon Prayers. The former Canon for Ministry Development and Deployment in the Diocese of New Jersey, she is an award-winning writer and popular speaker who works closely with Sister Jane Mankaa and the Good Shepherd Home Board in Cameroon. Visit Elizabeth’s website and blog at www.elizabethgeitz.com.
The new book can be ordered through any Episcopal, religious, or secular bookstore; any online bookseller, or direct from Cokesbury Christian stores, www.Cokesbury.com, or from Cokesbury customer service at 800-672-1789.
Founded in 1918 and headquartered in New York City, Church Publishing Incorporated is the publisher of official worship materials, books, and music for the Episcopal Church, plus a multi-faceted publisher and supplier to the broader ecumenical marketplace. Publishing imprints include Church Publishing, Morehouse Publishing, and Seabury Books. Additional CPI divisions include Morehouse Church Supplies, a provider of church supplies and clergy shirts, and Morehouse Education Resources, which produces lectionary-based curriculum, faith formation programs, plus e-publishing resources and services.
I Am That Child: Changing Hearts & Changing the World Elizabeth Geitz 978-0-8192-2778-2 $18.00
The ‘Last Of The Capones’ Tells The Inside Scoop On One Of The World’s Most Notorious Men
Bonita Springs, FL – “Contrary to public opinion, Al Capone did not die in prison and he did not die of syphilis,” states Deirdre Marie Capone. The grandniece that lived in the house of her famous (and favorite) uncle knew him well and recalls the man who taught her to ride a bike, swim, and play the mandolin. Already a best-seller on Amazon, her explicit memoir, Uncle Al Capone…The Untold Story From Inside His Family (Recap Publishing LLC), tells many never-before-known facts about this iconic figure’s life and death.
As the last member of the family born with the name Capone, Deirdre recalls what life was like as a child growing up in the Capone household and shares fond memories of her relationship with Al’s sister Mafalda, affectionately known to her as Aunt Maffie.
Deirdre knows what the ‘family’ was really like, and what the ‘outfit’ was all about. In her tell-all book she shares details untold until now; that Ralph and Al Capone lobbied the Nevada legislature to legalize gambling, alcohol and prostitution in that state; that they were the owners of the first upscale casino in Las Vegas way before Bugsy Siegel came to Vegas, and what really happened in the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.
Attempts by Deirdre’s own father to live a more legitimate lifestyle and shake the shame of the Capone name failed, resulting in him taking his own life when she was just ten years old. Deirdre had tried to hide the fact she was a Capone for most of her own life – even leaving Chicago in her early thirties to start over in Minnesota and telling no one her real name except her husband. That changed the day her son came home from school and announced they were studying Al Capone in class and she and her husband agreed it was time to tell the kids her ancestry. Her fears were put to rest when the kids announced it was totally ‘cool’ and, at age 34, she finally accepted herself as Deirdre Marie Capone and today her 14 grandchildren are proud to tell the story of their ancestry.
While Uncle Al Capone is packed with fascinating stories about Al and his family, it also contains many never-before-published photos as well as authentic Capone family recipes for the food that Al and his family enjoyed. Uncle Al Capone offers a distinctly different look at a man who was endlessly depicted as the iconic mastermind behind some of the century’s most brutal killings.
Since January of this year marked the 65th anniversary of Al Capone’s death, and after years of research and exhaustive interviews with relatives, Deirdre – the last link in the Capone chain – felt compelled to share this unique piece of history with the world.
For all the dissension, for all the pain, there comes a moment in our lives where we have to stand up and say: This – the good and the bad – is who I am, says Deirdre Marie Capone. For more information on this intriguing book, please visit: www.unclealcapone.com.
Flavor Flav Now Serving Up Fame And Fried Chicken In Las Vegas: Yeah, Boy!
Las Vegas, NV – Rapper and reality-TV star Flavor Flav announces the opening of Flavor Flav’s House of Flavor with his famous shout out of ‘Yeah, Boy.’ A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for 6:30 p.m. on March 15 at 3333 South Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV. The venture recalls memories of his boyhood, when his father was in the restaurant business; the new eatery features recipes and secret spice rub mixtures developed by Flavor Flav himself over the years and during culinary school.
Flavor Flav’s House of Flavor is a celebrity-centric Las Vegas take out restaurant with a quick-service menu specializing in specialty recipe soul food. The menu includes fried chicken, fried shrimp and Flavor Flav’s signature red velvet waffle, indulgent and delicious. The restaurant is decorated with memorabilia from Flavor Flav’s multi-faceted career as a rapper hype man, reality-TV star and entertainer for audiences around the world. Patrons of the House of Flavor might also expect celebrity sightings.
Flavor Flav is an iconic figure domestically and internationally, having made appearances in over 77 countries to sold-out audiences. Most recently, fans will have spotted him starring with Elton John in the Pepsi Super Bowl commercial premiere; the Super Bowl XLVI broadcast set a record with 111.3 million viewers on February 5, 2012.
According to VH1, 7.5 million viewers tuned in for Flavor Flav’s season finale of ‘Flavor of Love 2’ – this goes down in the VH1 history books as the network’s highest rated telecast ever, propelling the episode to the #1 telecast on cable for the night and the #1 non-sports telecast in all of basic cable for the entire year.
The Flavor Flav Comedy Central Roast was the most-watched, #1 highest rated show ever among men ages 18-34. The star recently donated a signature ‘Clock’ which is displayed in the ‘Enduring Traditions’ Exhibit Hall of the Grammy® Museum. Flavor Flav’s “Clock” is also on display at both the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame Museum and the Hard Rock Café.
The Las Vegas based Flavor Flav House of Flavor Take-out Restaurant is independently owned and operated by FLAVOR FLAV and is not associated with the former Clinton, Iowa licensing deal.
Security Must Begin Before The Intruder Gets In – After Might Be Too Late…
“With Rural Burglaries on the Increase – College Towns are on Alert”
Nashville, TN – Alan Young’s common sense and economical approach to prevent becoming a victim has made him a popular guest for radio show hosts who understand how a lagging economy has contributed to an increase in home invasions. In fact, after Young appeared on Georgiann Kiricoples ‘Breaking Through’ radio show, the host commented: “It was really interesting to hear his common sense approach to security. I know that it made me think, especially the part about alarm systems…”
Young, the CEO of Armor Concepts, is especially troubled because crimes are increasing in the suburbs and small towns where it rarely happened in the past.
The recent murder of Yeardley Love, a star Lacrosse player from the University of Virginia, who was killed after her boyfriend allegedly kicked in her door, underscores the theme of bad things happening to good people in good areas. “In any type of home invasion, buying time is critical. If a potential intruder can kick in a door and be in your home in 10 seconds, you don’t have a lot of time to react. If getting in is more difficult, you have time to call the police, plan your escape or possibly prevent them from coming in at all. Home invasions can happen anywhere and at any time,” commented Young.
Featured on local news segments as well as programs like the CBS Early Show, The TodayShow, Fox News, Bloomberg and The Discovery Channel, Young explains there are three important factors in making your home secure: “Use some common sense. Don’t post vacation plans on Facebook and don’t post vacation photos while still on vacation. Many burglaries are committed by someone you know or by someone connected to someone you know. Letting the world know that you’re not home is an easy way to become a target.”
The second is to make your home a less inviting target than your neighbor’s. By this, he means keeping shrubs trimmed and installing proper lighting (inside and out). “This will make your home less attractive to a burglar unless he knows you have something he really wants.”
The third factor is about securing the exterior of your home, namely doors. While home alarm systems are helpful, with police response times often greater than 20 minutes the burglar could be in and out before the police arrive. Young equates an alarm system with having OnStarÒ in your car: “Would you not buckle your seat belt because OnStarÒ will call the police after you have an accident? Alarms are a good addition to your home’s security but 85% of all break-ins are through a door. Secure your doors and you greatly increase your likelihood of success against a burglar.”
For door security, Young recommends EZ Armor, an inexpensive kit that reinforces the jamb, locks and hinges on an exterior entry door. The kit can be installed in about 30 minutes by a do-it-yourselfer; it’s guaranteed to help prevent kick-ins and it can be purchased at major hardware/DIY stores, or online at www.armorconcepts.com. Easily installed on any door, this would also help bring parents some peace of mind while their kids are away at college.
Young was featured on Nashville news last year when a couple, who had been victims of burglary, avoided a repeat offense by taking Young’s advice. After being robbed, the couple installed EZ Armor as kick-in prevention on their door. When the same burglar came back weeks later and tried to kick in the same door, he made so much noise that the neighbors called the police and he was apprehended. Young reiterates: “Security doesn’t need to cost a lot, it just needs to work. Anyone that tells you otherwise is taking you for a ride. With a little common sense and a little effort you can effectively secure your home.”
Many other valuable home security tips, along with recommendations for what to do after a burglary, can be found at www.armorconcepts.com.
This Talented Group Is Making Music In Harmony With The Environment
Fort Worth, TX – “It’s entertainment with a conscience,” says Steve Linder, creator of Vocal Trash; a diverse blend of environmental performers who have been engaging audiences across the U.S. for over a decade. The musical aspects of this exciting, high-energy troupe from Texas appeals to everyone – from the very young to the very old – in its perfect mix of pop, rock, swing and classic oldies.
Described as “Glee, with a kick”, Vocal Trash plays to capacity crowds, from Las Vegas to Madison Square Garden, presenting their “wow factor” experience and making them a hit with all venues. Audiences can’t seem to get enough of this energetic group whose “feel good” music literally gets people up and dancing in the aisles.
Vocal Trash combines uniquely recycled musical instruments, such as their “one of a kind” bass and guitars, with an industrial percussion section made-up of metal trash cans, plastic barrels, water bottles and other landfill rescued items. Their hip, yet poignant, presentation teaches children to use their imagination in a meaningful and lasting way as it relates to eco-friendly living. This makes for a powerful and personal tool to reach young minds while enforcing an important narrative to reuse items that would normally end up as discarded, earth burdensome waste.
With a rare display of excellence, synchronization, precision and musicianship, Vocal Trash followers, affectionately deemed as “Trash-Heads,” love the distinctive blend of first-rate singing, industrial style drumming, comedy antics and award-winning break-dancing. When it comes to diversity, Vocal Trash is the ultimate variety show with an urban feel and Broadway appeal.
While Earth Day is celebrated once a year in April (22nd), Vocal Trash has been doing their part by incorporating recycling into their shows for years, long before “green” was hip – making them one of the most positive role models in entertainment today. Part stage performers, part recycling gurus – these entertainers make green awareness fun for folks of all ages.
Starring as the front and center song and dance lead is theater veteran, Kelsey Rae. She states, “We’re simply presenting a positive message in an effective way. Music and dance is universal… there’s no better way to reach the masses.” Kelsey is also the member who coined the group’s mantra, “THINK… before you throw it away.”
Touring coast to coast, this in-demand group of top notch entertainers have made appearances on Worldwide Telemundo, Fox 21 in Colorado and Good Morning Texas (both Houston and Dallas), various high profile “Green” websites and numerous large market newspaper publications.
Please read the rave reviews from clients and check this dynamic group out personally at: www.vocaltrash.net.
