Rosa Pryor, Author at The Archive Site for The Baltimore Times

RAMBLING ROSE: Renowned Baltimore musicians strutting their stuff

Hello y’all! How are you enjoying this September weather so far? I think is fantastic! It is now perfect weather for outdoor events. I am having a ball. You will too if you follow my lead this week. As usual, there is so much going on. My Baltimore musicians are jumping up and down, doing the “James Brown” all over Baltimore and the District of Columbia. I am so happy to see so many of them working. It is also so wonderful to see so many organizations and clubs getting live entertainment instead of using recorded music. No offense to my DJs, but you know how I am, I love my live bands on stage.

World-renowned, drummer/percussionist, Dennis Chambers and Mike Stern will perform at the Blues Alley on the weekend of September 9, 10 and 11 for 2 shows each night. You don’t want to miss this!

Kicking the week off will be one of my favorite drummers, Dennis Chambers and my friend Mike Stern. Dennis has a propulsive style and versatility that enable him to play in combos or large groups and to work with fusion and hard bop bandleaders. He has also released two sessions as a leader himself. Chambers has recorded and played with Bob Berg, Bill Evans, Victor Bailey, Bob Belden, Kevin Eubanks and Mike Stern, just to name a few. Well honey child! You can catch him at Blues Alley Supper Club, 1073 Wisconsin Avenue NW in Washington, D.C. this entire weekend for two shows per night.

Continuing with this musical weekend with our local musician is The Marcus Lansey Jazz Quartet, performing at the Family and Children’s Services Foster Grandparent 43rd Annual Recognition Ceremony on Friday, September 9 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at New Psalmist Baptist Church, 6020 Marian Drive in Baltimore. The tickets also include a delicious brunch menu. For more information, call, 410-366-1980.

Craig Alston, renowned musician and saxophonist will perform with his band at the Jazz Expressways Foundation Jazz Breakfast on Saturday, September 10, 2016 at the Forest Park Senior Center located at 4801 Liberty Heights Avenue in Baltimore from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Alright now, Jazz Expressways Foundation Jazz Breakfast is Saturday, September 10 at the Forest Park Senior Center, 4801 Liberty Heights Avenue from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. featuring the one and only jazz saxophonist, Craig Alston and his band. This is a BYOB event, that’s right, you have your cocktail after you have your coffee, eggs and bacon, with home fries, fried apples, grits, and etc. We are serving a full buffet breakfast, with dancing and vendors. Call 410-833-9474 if you want to get your ticket at the door.

After having breakfast with us and listening to some great music, you will have just enough time to go home, change, and head back out to dinner at the Caton Castle Lounge, 20 S. Caton Avenue to listen to George Coleman & Harold Mabern with Joe Farnsworth and Alex Claffey. They’ll be there on Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. For ticket information, call 410-566-7086.

Our Baltimore musicians come in all flavors. That’s right! The New Beginnings Barber Show is hosting their anniversary with a big Gospel Fest featuring Kenny Davis & The Melodyaires, Alvin Darling, The Soul Messengerz, Little David & The Bells of Joy, The Wings of Praise, The Divine of Annapolis and Sparkie & The Tones of Joy. Doresa Harvey & Minister Robert Wilson are the Emcees on Saturday, September 10 starting at 5 p.m., at the Greater New Hope Baptist Church, 2720 W. North Avenue in Baltimore. Food is available for purchase. For more information or tickets call 410-358-9661.

I have just a couple of things I want to tell you before I run out of space. “4 Men Production” is hosting a cabaret featuring First Class, Simply Black Kimberly and Style, all of Baltimore’s top R&B groups on Saturday, September 10, 8 p.m. until 1 a.m. at the I.C. W. C Hall 4432 Park Heights Avenue, in Baltimore. For tickets, call 443-224-6114.

J.B. Brown, former radio personality is hosting an Oldies Dance Party at the Parkville VFW Hall Post 9083, 8123 Harford Road in Parkville, Maryland on Saturday, September 10, 7-11 p.m. It is cabaret Style; BYOB and BYOF with free set ups. For ticket information, call 443-425-8739.

Last, but certainly not least, I want to say happy birthday to Baltimore/Washington jazz promoter Vernard Gray who is celebrating his 75th birthday on Sunday, September 11 at 4 p.m. at the Agora Bar & Grill @ The Inn at the Black Olive in Fells Point. For more information, call 202-262-7571.

On that note, it is about time for the fat lady to sing. I got to go. Remember, if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

RAMBLING ROSE: Summer is not over, yet!

Hello everyone, this was an exciting and hot weekend. “Shorty” my Boo-Boo and I had a very busy week covering the last of the “Liberty Live” Festival for the Randallstown Community and the Ruth Kirk Fun Festival for two days at Franklin Square Park. We were also hosts for the New Africa Festival at Druid Hill Park all day long from 12 noon until 8 p.m. Honey Child! We had a ball! Let me tell you why. The festival featured a Travis Winkey, “Dressing for Success Fashion Show,” The Ebony’s, Simply Black, the First Impression, and many other fabulous entertainers. This was my first time in a long time checking out the International recording group “The Ebony’s,” but girlfriend, let me tell you, they were the ice cream and icing on the cake. The event was a great success, well done New African Festival Committee !

The Old School Runners will host the 14th Annual Crab Feast on Saturday, September 3, 2016 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Columbus Gardens located at 4301 Klosterman Avenue in Nottingham, Maryland. For ticket information, call Jim “Magic” Johnson at 443-676-9038.

Well, I’m gonna’ take you out of the city a little bit, not too far, but to our sister town, Washington, D.C. Okay, I know I am supposed to say “going to,” but I want to say, “I’m gonna” take you to Washington, D.C. just a little bit to check out some nice live entertainment. Check this out! Did you know that Blues Alley has live entertainment— a mixture of all kinds of music, especially, blues, jazz and R&B? Well they do. Carol Riddick, a soul and R&B artist will be performing at the club on Saturday, August 27 for two shows and Kameron Corvet, also a soul and R&B vocalist will perform on Sunday, August 28. Blues Alley is located 1073 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. For ticket information, call 202-337-4141.

John Lamkin “Favorites” Organ Quintet is kicking up a storm at Lexington Market on Saturday, August 27 featuring John Lamkin on trumpet and Flugelhorn, Mike Hariston on Saxophone, Todd Simon on organ, Marshall Booze on guitar, and Philip Thomas on drums. Always open and free to the public.

Moving right along, I’m still on the D.C. train to see the Luis Faife Quartet, which will perform at Twins Jazz located at 1344 U Street NW in Washington, DC on Saturday August 27, 2016. Luis is an Afro-Cuban saxophonist who has played at international festivals in the United States, Cuba, France, Switzerland and many others to numerous to mention. Check him out— I believe you will enjoy him and his group.

I want to end by saying I am so proud of MarvaD, who has presented some of the best of the best concerts and shows in Baltimore. She is a dynamite promoter and fundraiser. She recently produced a show featuring William “Smooth” Wardlaw and his band at Magooby’s Joke House on Deereco Road this past Wednesday night. Honey Child! Listen to me! If he looks like him, dresses like him, sings like him, I say it must be him— I am talking about the late Luther Vandross! When this man Wardlaw performs, believe me my friends he channels the late great Luther Vandross. Ms’ Maybelle did an excellent job hosting the event. All I can say, “Shame of you if you missed it”

Well, my dear friends, I am out of space. But remember, if you need me call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS

RAMBLING ROSE: Young people doing their thing!

Hello friends and fans, a lot is going on this week, especially involving the young folks in our community. For example, 11-year-old Anthony Michael Hobbs who began acting at age eight has already racked up many awards for his skills, especially from his supporting role project for PBS, “The American Experience; The Abolitionist,” which received an Emmy Award nomination for “Outstanding Documentary or Non-Fiction Series.

Eleven-year-old Anthony Michael Hobbs wrote, produced and directed “Naga Pixie,” a film for kids, which was accepted and screened at ten film festivals across the country. A red carpet special movie screening will be held in his honor for “Naga Pixie” at the Arbutus Volunteer Firehouse Community Hall located at 5200 Southwestern Blvd. on Sunday, August 14, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Hobbs is the grandson of Baltimore Times Columnist, Eunice Mosley.

This young man played young Frederick Douglass at age six. The story about this young man goes on and on. The public is invited to the red carpet screening event to meet this special young man from our hometown on Sunday, August 14, 2016 at the Arbutus Volunteer Fire Department Community Hall located 5200 Southwestern Blvd. from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. The event is free!

My goodness gracious! We have two more children who are doing outstanding work with their musical talent. They have performed all over the Baltimore and District of Columbia leaving a name for themselves playing their saxophones.

The very talented siblings Ephraim and Ebban Dorsey who are 12 and 13 years of age respectively and the winners of 2015 Rosa Pryor Music Scholarship Fund will head up their own show with one of the “baddest” groups in Baltimore, Greg Hatza, Robert Shahid and Brian Kooken as their back up band at the Caton Castle Lounge, 20 S. Caton Avenue on Saturday, August 13 from 6-10 p.m. For ticket information call 410-566-7086.

They also play other instruments including keyboards. Ephraim and Ebban Dorsey at the age of 12 and 13 years old have played with some of the top local and national musicians in many concerts and jazz jam sessions. It is a must to go see these two little ones. This brother and sister team is awesome! Thanks to their parents for taking a strong interest in their education with both of them at the top of their class with honors and they still find time to be professional musicians. Well done!

There is one more thing I want to mention before I leave you and that is to remind you about the “New Africa Festival” which will take place on Saturday, August 20, 2016 at Druid Hill Park from 12 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Sundail Pavilion. The event is free and there will be something for the whole family, including vendors and live entertainment! It’s picnic style, so bring your folding chairs and enjoy. The event will be hosted by Reggie Wells (Oprah Winfrey’s former make-up artist) and yours truly “Rambling Rose.” I will be signing my books! You will be entertained by Ms. Shay, First Impression, “Baltimore Heat” and “Mann,” formerly of the Softones. I will see you there.

Well my dear friends, it is about that time. Remember, if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com.

RAMBLING ROSE: Summer brings positive things to the community!

Hello my dear friends, I sure hope you are enjoying the summer with your loved ones. This is such a beautiful time of the year. HOT! But beautiful! Just stay cool and enjoy what God has given us. Stop complaining! Go to an air-conditioned place when you can stay cool, drink plenty of water, and wear light clothes.Winter will be back before you know it, so enjoy what we have, it is only here for a little while.

Carl Grubbs Jazz String Ensemble will perform at Artscape on Sunday, July 17, 2016 at the MICA Brown Center Stage, Falvey Hall located at 1301 Mt. Royal Avenue from 7-8 p.m. For more information, call 410-944-2906.

The positive things happening this summer are the outdoor festivals, the crab feasts, the indoors concerts, the farmers markets and the musical programs organized by people like Eartha Lamkin and Carl Grubbs, musicians who also doing special events for children as well as adults. I think it is wonderful.

The Randallstown Liberty Live Outdoor Concert Series Festival is jumping up and down, doing the “James Brown” with folks coming from all over, setting up their folding chairs with their umbrellas and cameras and having a good time. Last week the live entertainment was awesome and the food was sooo good. The barbeque ribs and corn on the cob are my favorites. Don’t forget the vendors selling clothes, jewelry, shoes and wine! This week make sure you bring your folding chairs to the Kings Point Square, 9900 Liberty Road, (rain or shine) to this free event starting at 6 p.m. every Friday thru August. I will see you there.

Baltimore’s renowned vocalist, musician and educator, Eartha Lamkin has opened up the “B-Sharp Summer Music Enrichment Academy” at Timothy Baptist Church located at 1214 W. Saratoga Street in Baltimore. Classes are held from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. daily for children ages 8-18. Classes include: voice, piano, guitar, organ, strings, chorus, percussion, woodwinds, ear training, brass winds, sight singing and music theory. For more information, call 410-484-6519.

The Liberty Road Business Association presents the Randallstown Farmers Market in the Liberty Court Shopping Center near the library every Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (rain or shine). They are still looking for vendors! Vendor space is available for arts and crafts, jewelry, clothes, food, vegetables and fruits. Flowers and dessert vendors are also welcome. Call Kelly at 410-655-7766.

I want to thank all my Facebook friends, my readers and fans for your prayers for my sister Maxine Pryor who has been in hospice in her home and Johns Hopkins Hospital. Prayers are a mighty and powerful thing; and I believe with all my heart that the doctors don’t have the last word. My sister has gotten much better, so much so she’s no longer in hospice care, but doctors say she can’t live alone. So, instead of letting her go to a facility, Shorty and I are now her caretakers. She is now living with us and so far she is doing very well. Please continue to keep all of us in your prayers.

Also, I want you to keep your prayers going for my dear friend and many of yours Stella Fullwood, who is under the weather. Her husband Everette will keep me informed on her progress and I will let you know how she is doing. Right now she is resting, so her family requests no calls just yet.

There’s more coming next week, so enjoy yourself with some fun activities. Love you all. Remember, if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. Please do not send upcoming events through Facebook. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

RAMBLING ROSE: Summer time is party time in Baltimore!

Hello everybody! I hope everything is well with you. I am doing okay, just worried about my dear sister, Maxine Pryor who is very special to me and has been very ill. She is back at Johns Hopkins Hospital waiting to be placed in hospice care. She has cancer of the heart, living with just 20 percent of heart function. Please keep her in your prayers. She keeps a very positive attitude, which keeps her smiling and the desire to keep fighting. So I will too. I have been staying very busy thanks to my friends and fans. I thank you for all the invites.

Earl Wilson (Maultsby) Memorial: I regret to inform you about the death of a great musician and vocalist, Earl Wilson. He had a massive stroke while alone at his home. He passed on Wednesday June 8. His Memorial Musical Service was held at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, June 26, 2016. You can send cards to his wife, Rosie Morton-Maultsby at 45 K Street NW. Apt. 609, Washington, D.C. 20001.

I just got some good news about one of my favorite groups— the Sunset Band led by the one and only Phil Butts will be performing at Blues Alley Super Club, in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, July 6, 2016 for two shows: the first show is at 8 p.m. and the second show is at 10 p.m. The Sunset Band is a unique music aggregation that presents a “mix of great jazz and rhythm & blues.” Blues Alley is located at 1073 Wisconsin Avenue NW in Washington, D.C. If you are in the Baltimore area and prefer not to drive, there will be a chartered coach to take you to each show. For the 8 p.m. show, Dillon’s Coach departs from 1926 Monroe Street at 6:30 p.m. For the 10 p.m. show Dillon’s Coach departs at 8 p.m. from 2426 Pennsylvania Avenue in Baltimore. We will see you there.

Also on this same date, another one of our musicians, Dontae Winslow with his band Winslow Dynasty will be performing at the Bethesda Jazz & Blues Supper Club, 7719 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland on Wednesday, July 6 at 8 p.m.

The band features Dontae Winslow on trumpet with Tim Green, and Gary Thomas on saxophones, Tom Baldwin on bass, Allyn Johnson on keys and CV Dashiell on drums.

Brian Kieth of D.O.T. Entertainment will host his “4th Annual All Open Crab Feast” on Sunday, July 10th from 5-9 p.m. at the Patapsco Arena, 3301 Annapolis Road in Baltimore, Maryland. You will be entertained by Comedian, Ms. Maybelle; DJ Kenny K, DJ Sean Marshall, DJ Boobie, and DJ Shannell B. For more information, call 410-929-1360.

“Liberty Live Outdoor Concert and festival” is already jumping every Friday from 6-9 p.m. rain or shine with live entertainment, lots of foods of all kinds, vendors selling everything and book signings by yours truly at Kings Point Square, 9900 Liberty Road in Randallstown. Bring your folding chairs and camera. There’s free admission and parking. If you want to be a vendor, call Kelly at 410-655-7766.

More vendors are needed for the Randallstown Farmers Market, including: arts & crafts, food, clothes, shoes, hats, jewelry, etc. For more information, call the Liberty Road Business Association at 410-655-7766.

Here comes my favorite event this summer and every summer in Baltimore— The Faisonian Club DipNic Festival. I just love this event, which will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2016 from noon until 8 p.m. It is located at the Elks Camp Barrett, 1001 Chesterfield Road, Crownsville, Maryland. It is strictly for grown folks, no children allowed. It is a party for adults where you can bring or wear your swimwear and go swinging all day long. Bring your jazz concert gear, folding chairs, tables and tents, canopy, sun umbrella, grill, food and drinks, coolers, charcoal and your deck of cards and picnic like you have never before with live entertainment and DJ music all day long. There are all kinds of vendors, selling everything. The campgrounds offer a gigantic swimming pool, indoor dance hall, two large pavilions, door prizes; a large hot BBQ pit, ice and vendors. For tickets, contact, Carlos Hutchins at 443-963-5711; Millie Battle at 410-448-0033; or Charles “Rudy” Faison at 443-801-1100.

Oh man! I’ve got so much more to tell you about, but I am out of space this week, so I will see you on the flip side. Remember, if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com.

RAMBLING ROSE: Happy Father’s Day!

Happy DAD-DAD DAY to all fathers this weekend!

Hello everyone, my goodness gracious! This will be a hell-la-va weekend. I am telling you, Father’s Day has taken over the calendar with so many concerts, social events, cabarets, stage shows, restaurant specials and gospel shows. I promise the “Daddies” that they will not be bored this weekend. This is why: A Father’s Day Crab Feast is being presented by the Personality Hall, 2014 Harford Road, hosted by Richard Callaway on Sunday, June 19 from 5-9 p.m. It is cabaret style, so BYOB, call 410-366-3342. No Tickets are sold at the door.

The Mighty Clouds of Joy will headline the greatest gospel concert of the year, which will be hosted by Lonnie Parker on Sunday, June 19, 2016 at 4 p.m. at Brown’s Memorial Church located at 3215 W. Belvedere Avenue in Baltimore. For ticket information, call 410-358-9661.

Get ready for a big Father’s Day celebration with some of the greatest gospel singers in the country featuring The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Willis Pittman & The Burden Lifters, Kenny Davis & the Melodyaires, The Wings of Praise, soloist, Ms. Chambliss and The New Ebony Gospel Singers. The emcees are: Doresa Harvey and Robert Wilson at Brown’s Memorial Church, 3215 W. Belvedere Avenue on Sunday, June 19 at 4 p.m. The event is hosted by the one and only gospel promoter Lonnie Parker, for ticket information, call 443-610-7583.

Another Father’s Day celebration will be held at the Forum Caterers, hosted by Nikita Haysbert, vice president of the Forum Caterers on Sunday, June 19 from 3-7 p.m. featuring a full dinner buffet, cash bar and live jazz entertainment. For tickets, call 410-358-1101.

Meet Executive Chef Damien Hinck at the Final Cut Steakhouse Restaurant located at Hollywood Casino in Charles Town, West Virginia for a great Father’s Day meal.

You can also take your dad or the man in your life to a delicious dinner at the Final Cut Steakhouse Restaurant at the Hollywood Casino in Charles Town, West Virginia and watch Executive Chef Damien Hinck work his magic on a delicious steak or a juicy lobster. While you are there you might as well play the tables or the slots while you are waiting. After dinner check out the racetrack. The casino is big and beautiful, and the food is to die for. After you win at the race track, go see the show; Carlos Mencia will be in concert performing on Friday, June 17.

The Persuaders are performing with The Spindells, Slagz Band and many others at the Patapsco Arena located at 3301 Annapolis Road on Sunday, June 19, 2016 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Hosted by Carlos Hutchins. For tickets, call 443-963-5711.

Gents on the Move” will present their Father’s Day Cabaret on Saturday, June 18 from 8 p.m. until 1 a.m. at the American Legion Post #22, 125 York Road, Towson, Maryland featuring music by First Class & DJ Mel with a catered buffet dinner. It is BYOB and free beer, soda, ice and set-ups. For ticket information, call AJ at 410-488-1674.

Okay “Daddies” enjoy your weekend. Have a wonderful and blessed time. Remember, if you need me, just call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

RAMBLING ROSE: Hanging out this weekend with Rambling Rose

Hello everyone, we will be hanging out this weekend and next weekend having ourselves a good time. Do you want to be a Hollywood actor? Playwright Ursula Battle will help get you there. Battle is holding auditions for her play “My Big Phat Ghetto FABULE$$ Wedding” on Saturday, June 4 in Turner Auditorium, located in the Johns Hopkins Hospital Ross Research Building, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland. Auditions will take place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. She is looking for actors, singers, musicians, dancers, and other performers between the ages of six to eighty. She’s also looking for stage crew and administrative volunteers. Bring a performance resume and a headshot if you have them; be prepared to sing a song of your choice, and to read from a script. For more information call 410-955-8888.

Greg Hatza and his organization will perform at the Jazz Expressways Foundation Jazz Breakfast Fundraiser on Saturday morning June 11, 2016 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. A full breakfast buffet will be served with a lot of live entertainment and vendors. BYOB for your cocktail after breakfast at the Forest Park Senior Center located at 4801 Liberty Heights Avenue. Donation only $30.00. For more information, call 410-833-9474.

The American Legion Post No. 285 presents a “Jazz Show” featuring The Bobby Rucks Music Group. This is a cabaret style event, so BYOB AND BYOF. They have free set-ups on Sunday, June 12, from 5-9 p.m. at the American Legion 2324 McElderry Street, in Baltimore. For tickets, call Commander Lee Lewis at 443-965-1246.

Brian Hall of D.O.T Sport and his “Dream Team” will host an “All White Everything” party and show on Sunday, June 5, 2016 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a light buffet and cash bar or BYOF at the Patapsco Arena, 3301 Annapolis Road in Baltimore. You will be entertained by several DJs. For ticket information, call 410-929-1360.

It is time to take a journey with the Alumni of Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity to Crab Claw Restaurant in St. Michael’s Maryland and Dover Downs Casino in Dover, Delaware on Saturday, June 4. The trip leaves from Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity House, 4500 Garrison Blvd at 9 a.m. and returns at 10 p.m. The Crab Claw menu with your ticket includes: steamed crabs, buffalo wings, vegetable tray, crab vegetable soup, cole slaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, fruit tray, pitchers of ice tea and sodas and much more. Call Leon Jones at 410-521-5806 for more information.

Meet me at the Signs of the Times night club on Friday, June 3 at 139 N. Belnord Avenue to get this party going. All drinks and cocktails will be at happy hour prices and the music will be the oldies but goodies sound by “Ice Man.” Delicious food will be on sale such as shrimp, fries, chicken wings, fish, hotdogs, pork chops, mashed potatoes, greens and spaghettis & meatballs. Everything starts at 4 p.m. until. We will see you there with both of my books. For more information, call 410-878-1473.

Well, my dear friends, I am out of space, I will see you somewhere. Remember, if you need me call me at 410-833-9474, or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

RAMBLING ROSE: Concerts and stage plays

Hello everyone, I hope everything is well. I have had an interesting week with my book signings and the wonderful show at the Avenue Bakery featuring live entertainment with John Wesley.

“I had a great time kicking off the 2016 Jazz at the Avenue Bakery on Pennsylvania Avenue and Baker Street last week,” said John Wesley. “Thank God for all of the beautiful sunshine last Saturday that came out just before the show began at 4 p.m. Kudos to sister Rosa Pryor for a great event and of course the owner, CEO of the Avenue Bakery, James W. Hamlin and Eloy Hamlin, for the great barbeque food.”

“Marriage & Beer, “ is a romantic comedy stage play about three women from three generations. Hosted by on the Road Theater Company, the play takes place on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church located at 3050 Liberty Heights Avenue in Baltimore. Curtain is 7 p.m. For more information, call 410-466-1364.

The event was held in the outdoor courtyard of the Avenue Bakery and it was packed with supporters. The camera crew from the University of Maryland filmed and video taped the event for their project, “Rebirth of the Avenue.”

The Avenue Bakery’s new large stage pavilion in the Courtyard Garden was a beautiful setting for all the bands that will perform throughout the spring and summer.

We spotted a few people I knew by name who came to support the event, such as Griot Grandmother Edna Lawrence, Daniel P. Henson, and Donald “Duck” Welling who stopped by for a while before heading over to Caton Castle to see Greg Hatza and his group. I am so sorry I couldn’t make that, but in addition to booking the group at the Avenue Bakery, I was the mistress of ceremony for the event. Other guests included Councilman Carl Stokes; muralist and installation artist, Stuart Hudgins; and Upton Neighborhoods Executive Director Wanda Gibson Best. It was a very nice event.

Akua Allrich presents her new newest release “Soul Singer.” The District of Columbia native will perform live at “Jazzway 6004,” which takes place at 6004 Hollins Avenue in Baltimore. Show time is 8 p.m. Tickets include drinks and a post-concert buffet of deserts, fruit and cheeses. For ticket information, call 410-952-4528.

“Jazzway 6004” is doing it again with soul singer, Akua Allrich performing live music from her freshman album, “A Peace of Mine” and second album, “Uniquely Standard, Akua Allrich Live!” The “Jazzway 6004 Lounge, located at 6004 Hollins Avenue in Baltimore is known for booking the best of best entertainment. Check it out. For ticket information, call 410-952-4528.

Coming up next week on Sunday, May 29, 2016, at the Frederick Douglass High School Performing Arts Center located at 2301 Gwynn Falls Parkway in Baltimore is another dynamite play called “From the Pulpit to the Runway” (To God Be the Glory) produced & directed by our one and only Travis Winkey. There will be two shows: 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. For ticket information, call 410-669-1220.

Well my friends, I am out of space, but remember if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. If you want to mail me information of photo, please send it to 214 Conewood Avenue, Reisterstown, Maryland 21136. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

RAMBLING ROSE: Happy Mother’s Day!

Hello everyone, it is “Mother’s Day Weekend” and I am going to inform you on a few places you can take that special lady in your life. There will be several choices. Hopefully I will see you at one of them.

Brother Larry Washington will host a Mother’s Day Event at the Arch Social Club, 2426 Pennsylvania Avenue on Sunday, May 8, from 5-9 p.m. Buffet and cash bar. Dancing music by D.J and prizes to the oldest and youngest Mother.

My dear friends, it is so important and special when you spend time with your mother. Remember so many of us no longer have ours. It doesn’t matter if she is in a nursing home, rehabilitation, hospital or home care. Take time out for her. Take her flowers, cards from family and friends, take pictures of the family, set up a boom box and play her favorite music, and take balloons to decorate her room. These are just a few suggestions especially for the moms who are sick and shut-in.

The Avenue Bakery (Home of Poppay’s Rolls), located on the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Baker Street will feature their Courtyard Summer Music Series with a taste of jazz, R&B, soul and blues. Every first Saturday in the month you can enjoy free performances by Baltimore’s most consummate musicians and performers. Food and cocktails are on sale. On Saturday, May 7, 2016 from 4-8 p.m. John Melton Westley, renowned keyboardist and vocalist will perform with his band. Go and enjoy, bring your friends.

Olive Branch Community Church Elder Board presents “A Mother’s Funday Tea” on Sunday, May 8 from 1-4:30 p.m. at the Spencerville Academy, 2502 Spencerville Road (Route 19) in Spencerville, Maryland. There will be light snacks and tea; you will be entertained by Shirli L. Hughes and the Edmond Charles Trio. For ticket information, call 301-421-9709.

No matter what your lifestyle may be, I believe I have something for you and your mother or you and your wife or that special lady in your life.

There is an “Oldie but Goodie Reunion, 50’s- 60’s- 70’s & 80’s Mother’s Day Weekend Treat” on Saturday, May 7 from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. at the Patapsco Arena. Included with your tickets are live performances by The Delfonics, Frank Washington, First Class, and Desire; free roses to the first 100 ladies; cabaret style, free set-ups, cash bar, line dancing, hand dancing, free beer, light buffet or bring your own. For ticket information, call 443-799-2238.

The John Lamkin “Sacred” Jazz Quintet will be in concert at St. Mark’s on the Hill Episcopal Church, 620 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, Maryland on Saturday, May 7 at 7 p.m. featuring John R. Lamkin II on trumpet and Flugelhorn, Craig Alston on saxophones, Bob Butta on keyboard, Herman Burney on bass, Jesse Moody on drums and Eartha Lamkin on vocals. So check it out.

Next Phaze will host a Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch on Sunday, May 8 at the Eubie Blake Cultural Center, 847 N. Howard Street from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Tickets include an exciting day for the women to enjoy delicious Southern food and drinks, mellow live jazz. For ticket information, call 443-900-9699.

Another Mother’s Day Event hosted by Larry Washington of the Arch Social Club, 2426 Pennsylvania Avenue on Sunday, May 8 from 5-9 p.m. This is a fundraiser and for only a $10 donation will give you DJ music, buffet, cash bar and prizes to the oldest and youngest mother.

Well, my dear friends enjoy your holiday, hope to see you soon. Please note that it is very important that you send your invites, flyers, pictures, etc. to me by email or regular mail. DO NOT FACEBOOK ME if you want me to write about your event. Also, I do not except invitations to events through Facebook or texts. If you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at: rosapryor@aol.com. Or send your information to 214 Conewood Avenue, Reisterstown, Maryland 21136. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

RAMBLING ROSE: It’s really spring!

Hello everyone, my dear friends. Guess what? It’s really spring! I woke up this morning and heard the birds chirping, I looked outside and saw the colorful flowers blooming, especially the tulips. You know those flowers don’t come out to do anything until the stuff is right. I am so excited that this beautiful warm weather is gracing us again. I don’t know about you, but I am tired of being cold.

Comedian Sinbad will be performing at Charles Town, Hollywood Casino on Saturday, April 23, 2016.

This is the perfect weather to go shopping, take long drives (when the gas prices don’t go crazy); work in your garden, pick-up all the debris in your back yard that the wind and snow left behind. And yes! Underneath it all, it is time to cut the grass. Well, we can’t have everything.

I prefer to dress up and check out some shows and events that are going on in the next couple of weeks.

International Jazz Day is celebrated at the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races featuring Art Sherrod Jr., renowned saxophonist and a host of other world class musicians on April 30, 2016. Hollywood Casino is located 750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, West Virginia. For tickets & information, call 800-795-7001.

On Sunday, April 23, 2016, and every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 12 noon there is a “Sunday Indoor Flea Market” at the Paparazzi Night Club located at 407 E. Saratoga Street across from the Baltimore’s Farmer’s Market. Space is available for more vendors. You must bring your own table and just do your thing. What is so great about this is the Baltimore’s Farmers’ Market is open the same duck-plucking time, how cool is that? You can go on one side of the street and get your meats and veggies, put them in the car then go across the street and get a lot of other shopping done, such as clothes, shoes, jewelry, paintings, books; just a whole lot of stuff. For the flea market information, call 410-808-5131. Tell them “Rambling Rose” from the Baltimore Times told you.

Okay, let’s have some cocktails at Sidney’s Spring Fling on Sunday, April 24, 2016 from 5 to 9. The event is at the East Baltimore Lodge #1043 located at 2008 Harford Road in Baltimore and features the Bobby Rucks Band. Food is available and you get your first drink free. For more information call Barbara at 410-908-9911 or Sidney at 410-366-2740.

“Bleue’s on the Water,” a gorgeous venue on the water with breath-taking views located at 7696 Altoona Beach Road in Glen Burnie, Maryland is hosting an “Administrative Professional Day” free on Wednesday, April 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your assistants and have lunch. They are serving sparkling drinks, brunch, lunch and an appetizer buffet at their beautiful beachfront retreat. For more information, call 410-760-4115 or go to: www.bleuesonthewater.com. I might see you there, with my assistant “Shorty,” my Boo-Boo.

Don’t forget every Saturday evening from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. the Caton Castle Lounge at 20 S. Caton Avenue and Hilton Street showcases the best live entertainment. Featured this week is the Todd Marcus Quintet with Joel Frahm, Allyn Johnson, Jeff Reed and Wayne Smith. For ticket information, call 410-566-7086.

Alright now, I am out of space, I got to go. If you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.