Category: entertainment/rambling-rose

Hello everyone, How are you? I see some of you are tip-toeing out a little more into the public bars and clubs, the places where I feel are my second homes, but if I were you, I wouldn’t be so hasty about doing that. I am just saying, I truly believe it is just not safe yet. Any closed-in building that you have to remove your mask to eat and drink and you can sit or stand at a social distance, you will not see me or my “Boo-Boo.” No honey not yet! It is just not enough to jeopardize my health or life. Those of you who are dipping your toes into the hot water by hanging out at in the nightclubs, please be careful, there is no vaccine for this COVID yet. Stay healthy. Just my opinion!!

I want to say “Congratulations” to the Haysbert family for running a successful business for 41 years. They are the owners of the Forum Caterers located 4210 Primrose Avenue. Forty-one years ago it was the brainchild of three remarkable Black entrepreneurs; B. Tyrous “Terry” Addison who most believed was born to be an entrepreneur. Business was always his first love. In 1983, he joined Raymond Haysbert Sr., who at the time was president of Parks Sausage Company and radio station owner Dorothy Brunson to buy The Forum Caterers Inc. in Northwest Baltimore. He sold his interest in 1990. Dorothy E. Brunson was the first African American woman to own a radio station in Baltimore, Maryland and one of the first in the nation. She started out working as an executive with Inner City Broadcasting Corporation between 1973 and 1979. She owned radio station WEBB 1360 AM in Baltimore, Maryland purchased from entertainer James Brown in 1979. She later purchased radio stations in Atlanta and Wilmington, North Carolina. She joined Haysbert Sr. and “Terry” Addison in the purchase of the Forum Caterers. Raymond V. Haysbert Sr., the leader of this trio was a prominent African- American business executive and civil rights leader during the second half of the 20th century in Baltimore, Maryland. Haysbert joined Baltimore-based Parks Sausage Company in 1952, becoming CEO as it grew into one of the largest Black-owned U.S. businesses. Also in that year he was recruited by Henry G. Parks Jr., founder of the sausage company there bearing his name, to serve as accountant and office manager, later promoted to general manager, then executive vice president, before being named president and CEO of Parks Sausage Company. In September 1979 Haysbert brought the Forum Caterers while still being involved with his buddy, Henry Parks at Parks Sausage Company.

Before the passing of Raymond V. Haysbert in 2010 the business was passed on to his three children; sons, Brian and Reginald and daughter Nikita Haysbert who has continue the legacy of their father being a full service on and off premise catering company that has served many happy customers throughout the Baltimore/Washington area.

Ladies and gentlemen I can this with personal experience, because they served my organization Rosa Pryor Music Scholarship Fund, Inc. Black & Gold Ball for over 20 years and my guests loved every moment. Thanks my friends and congratulations guys, you are the best of the best!

I spoke to my buddy, Peggy Raley, vice preident and artistic director of True Blue Jazz, Inc. She told me that they are forging ahead this year because everyone needs the healing power of music— yes Lord! I agree! They will have virtual festivals and live venues in downtown Rehoboth Beach. She said they will still have a handful of COVID- compliant venues in downtown Rehoboth during their festival dates, October 15-18, 2020.

There will be 15 shows in four venues. Also this year they are offering two nights of great streaming live jazz featuring regional, national and international artists that be can be enjoyed from anywhere in the world, absolutely free. She understands that even though their businesses down at the beach would love to see visitors, many people just don’t want to leave home yet and that’s why they are streaming. The Boardwalk Plaza is hosting a watch party on both nights so that folks who do come to town can watch the live-stream on big screens. For more information, call 302-448-1766 or go to info@truebluejazz.org. Tell her Rambling Rose told you.

Well, my dear friends, enjoy, be safe, stay healthy, wear your mask and 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.

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Dorothy E. Brunson, founder of The Forum Caterers Inc.

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B. Tyrous “Terry”Addison, founder of The Forum Caterers Inc.

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Raymond V. Haysbert Sr., founder of The Forum Caterers Inc.

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Reginald Haysbert (Brother of Nikita and Brian Haysbert), Owner of the Forum Caterers located 2421 Primrose Avenue carrying on the family legacy.

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Nikia and Brian Haysberts (brother and sister), current owners of the Forum Caterers located 2421 Primrose Avenue carrying on the family legacy.

Hello everyone, how are you? I am so bored and I can’t stand myself but I am alive and healthy.

I don’t normally talk about interna- tional musicians but this time I will make an exception because of his con- nection with Baltimore, and he is one of us, just as Dennis Chambers and Kim Waters are. We love them and so proud of the fact that no matter how famous or world-renowned they become, they never forget their hometown, where it all began.

I am so proud of Lafayette and appre- ciate him as a person and a musician. Okay, check this out. Lafayette Gilchrist, known worldwide as a renowned pianist, composer and bandleader has a new re- lease— a powerful double-disc where he addresses life in Baltimore, race rela- tions in America, and affairs of the heart— entitled, “NOW.” He returns to the trio format on his self-released dou- ble disc, the follow-up to last year’s crit- ically acclaimed solo piano album, “Dark Matter,” which many critics cited as one of 2019’s best jazz releases. This CD contains several lovely tunes cen- tered on affairs of the heart. One of those is the stunning “Newly Arrived,” with its entrancing melody and suspenseful ro- manticism.

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Lafayette Gilchrist, acclaimed pianist and composer addresses life in Baltimore on his new powerful double-disc that will be available October 2, 2020.

Gilchrist’s inspiration for the song was Sade’s 1988 classic tune “Love is Stronger Than Pride.” On the haunting ballad “The Wonder of Being Here,” which touches on the love that remains after a short-term romance, Gilchrist un- ravels a melody that sounds as if it was lifted from Abbey Lincoln’s songbook. Okay, this is enough, all I am saying the CD is baaaaaad!!Get it! Check it out! You will like it. I do!

Let me tell you about a group that you may or may not know about because they are not widely publicized. They are Black Professional Men, Inc. (BPM). I came across the group accidentally last year when they had a social event. Let me tell you a little about them other than the fact they have some fine specimen of men in this group. I’m just saying! Any- way, The Black Professional Men, Inc. is a non-profit organization based in Balti- more. BPM was established in 1991 to address the social, economic and political awareness needs of the African-Ameri- can community, especially young males.

The organization is a 100 percent vol- unteer organization, which participates in a variety of community service initia- tives to provide youth with exposure to different experiences and positive role models. They host seminars, workshops and field trips within the Baltimore metro area for the young men and boys that they mentor. They sponsor their mentees on cultural and educational trips, attend Baltimore Raven’s games and attend the Congressional Black Cau- cus Foundation Conference. Each year they host the Rays of Hope Scholarship Breakfast, where they award college scholarships to deserving young men.

On Saturday, October 3, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the BPM book club mem- bers will select a book to read and dis- cuss and will continue on the first Saturday of each month. Next month, the public is invited to a scheduled Zoom meeting with the topic: Black Men Book Club Join Zoom Meeting at: https://zoom.us/j701208794? d=bGlj OFZKZIFHcm1GTOR3TkVTNmp- Pdz09 Meeting ID: must wear Masked. The password is BPM.

Now look my friend, if you understand what I just typed on the above line, I take my hat off to you because I don’t understand not one damn part of it. I tell you what, do what I am going to do, go to their website: www.blackprofessional- men.org or call 443-550-1276.

Oh, by the way, the Landmark Lodge #40 “Grab and Go Crab Feast in a Bag,” (such a grand idea) will be held on Sat- urday, September 26, 2020. The menu: 11⁄2 dozen steamed crabs; pork BBQ; fried or baked chicken; Swedish meat- balls; crab soup; corn on the cob; whipped potatoes; coleslaw; green beans; two beers or two sodas. So check it out and let me know how it was.

Well my friends, I have to go now. 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

Hello everyone, hoping you and your family are healthy and safe. Yes, we are still in this mess without any idea when it’s going to end. Remember whatever phase Baltimore City and Baltimore County are in, please make sure you take care and protect yourself. Family and friends— keep wearing your masks. This mess COVID-19 is not over until the “Fat Lady Sings!” Take my word for it— the “Fat Lady” will not be singing for a long time. Now, I want to talk about Louis Diggs, a man who is legendary in our town is celebrating his 89th birthday and still going strong.

Louis S. Diggs was born in Baltimore in 1932 on Dewey Avenue in Hoes Heights. He spent most of his young life on Stricker Street in the Sandtown area.

Diggs attended Douglas High School, quitting school in 1950 to join the All- Black Maryland National Guard when they were federalized to support the Ko- rean War. He served until 1952. He re- tired from the military in 1970 with more than twenty years of service.

He is the author of thirteen books in- cluding “Blacks in Baltimore,” “The Buffalo Soldiers,” “Surviving in Ameri- can” among others. He is the honorary board member of the Historical Society of Baltimore County.

Louis S. Diggs is not only a writer and historian specializing in the African- American history of Baltimore County, Maryland, but also as a chronicler of the county’s African-American legacy, his work illuminates the historic past of its Black communities. In addition to social history, Diggs followed up his military career with nineteen years in the District of Columbia public school system from which he retired in 1989.

The Black Authors Book Expo takes place on Saturday, September 19, 2020 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Baltimore War Memorial Building located at 101 N. Gay Street. The family friendly event offers an opportunity to meet and pur- chase items from your favorite self-pub- lished Black authors. Both adult and youth authors will showcase various genres, so it’s guaranteed there will be something for the entire family. In previ- ous years, authors have been as young as six years of age, so feel free to take the kids, they may be inspired to express themselves through writing. The event is free and open to the public. Wearing a facemask is mandatory. Have fun and enjoy.

Well, my dear friend it is about that time, I have to go but remember, if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com.

P.S. I am working on my third book about Baltimore Black History, so if you wish for you and your family’s pictures and stories to be included in this one, feel free to contact me. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

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Larry Young, talk show host on WOLB 1010 A.M. was informed by the Talker’s Magazine that for the 10th year he is listed in the magazine as the Top 100 Talk Show Host listed in the magazine that he is ranked #41. Con- gratulations my friend, this is well de- served!

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Lewis S. Diggs is celebrating his 89th birthday this week, Baltimore says, “Happy Birthday and may you have many, many, many more.

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Still going strong and doing yard work at age 81, Baltimore Colts legend and NFL Hall of Famers, Lenny Moore #24 with his friend and next-door neighbor, Reggie Wilson his next-door neighbor. God bless them both.

Hello everyone, I pray that you are safe and well. This is a terrible situation, but we must move on and pray that this awful coronavirus will leave us soon. In the meantime when you leave your home, wear your damn mask, this is so important.

Well, I have been hearing since this COVID-19 hit, about the “New Norm.” This means wearing a mask, no folding chairs to see live concerts in parks, no festivals of any kind, no jazz shows in night clubs, no meeting your friends for breakfast or having dinner meetings, nor having a date night in your favorite restaurant and no hanging out shooting the breeze with your buddies and friends at your favorite bar. It means that you call on the phone and have a delivery of your favorite foods or drive to a pick-up window to pick up your food or merchandise. It also means that we have to figure out how in the hell you see your favorite band or musicians on a virtual or live stream. This is a terrible situation! This is the “New Norm.” So if you can’t beat them, then you have to figure out how to join them.

This is one of those situations. I have joined Jim Hamlin of the Avenue Bakery with his non-profit organization, “The Royal Theater & Community Heritage Corporation (TRTCHC) in the fundraiser campaign to “Rebuild the Royal Theater.” The same fundraiser we have done for the past five years from March through September in the Avenue Bakery Courtyard. We booked the best of the best jazz, blues and R&B bands and musicians to perform, BUT— we had to cancel all of them for this year! Instead, we are hosting a virtual Courtyard Concert to be live streamed on Saturday, September 5, 2020, from 3p.m. to 7 p.m. from the Avenue Bakery Courtyard with no audience. That’s right, you cannot come to this event in person, you can only see it virtualually.

The show will present Greg Hatza ORGANization, Guy Curtis Band and Caribbean Pan music from Baltimore’s own Lenny Rogers. You can enjoy this signature concert free on Facebook, and website, which will take donations on line or by phone. For more information, call our special phone line at 410-225- 3895.

Before I leave you, I want to send my condolences to the family, adopted families and friends for loss of a Baltimore icon, Dr. Anne O. Emery. The stories of her life and the work she has done will not be forgotten. Her legacy will live on.

Well, my dear friends, this is all I have for you this week. The photos on this page will tell the rest of the story. Until we meet again, if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com.

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Mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young with his wife Darlene celebrated their 41st Wedding Anniversary this month. Happy Anniversary Jack and Darlene!

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Congratulations to my friend Carlton C. Douglass, PA for being voted as the Professional of the year and National Funeral Director 2020 with his lovely wife Darlene.

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Happy Birthday to George Gaines Sr. on his 100th Birthday this month. YOU GO MR. GAINES!!!!! May God continue to bless you

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Sending condolences to my friend and musician John Billy for the loss of his wife, Shirley Billy who died in June 2020. John and Shirley have been to- gether for 67 years and married 62 years. May she Rest in Peace.

Hello everyone, it has been such a sad time in the last several months. It’s just overwhelming. I began to think about this column, what I could I write about to bring our spirits up in a positive way and think of something other than our friends and family who have been getting sick and dying from this dreadful COVID-19. I thought for this column I will talk about something that will make you smile and remember the good old days. So check this out!

So come on and do some “Rambling” with me! This was a few years ago when exciting things were hap- pening in the entertainment world in Baltimore. I re- member when I used to hang in Club Paradise located at 1300 Laurens Street when they featured live enter- tainment of jazz and R&B bands every week with local groups such as Tracy Curbeam, Panama, Tiny Tim Harris and the D0-It-All Band; Keith Soul and the Rollex Band. My goodness what a good time we had.

Hey! What about the Cat’s Eye Pub that was located at 1730 Thames Street in Fells Point? I am not sure if they are still there, but I remember it was really a nice cozy spot,. It was a little jazz club where every Mon- day the club featured the Phil Cunneff Trio with Ben Frock on trumpet and fluegelhorn, Jeff Reen on bass and Philip Cunneff on drum.

Do you remember Duffy’s Restaurant that was lo- cated 3436 Frederick Avenue? Oh, I do! I remember when Carlos Johnson and his band were there every Thursday night to a packed house.

I remember a jazz concert a few years ago at the East Coast Jazz Festival that was held in the Double- tree Hotel in Rockville, Maryland. My goodness that was a “HOT” concert! If I close my eyes, I can see it all over again. Music lovers came from all over to catch this one; Check out the line-up if I can remem- ber myself. I believe it was: the U.S. Army Blues Jazz Ensemble; Paul Laurence Dunbar High School Jazz Ensemble with Charles Funn, director; Ernie Andrews with the Duke Ellington School of the Arts High School Jazz Ensemble; Dick Morgan Trio; Buster Williams; Keter Betts Trio; Allison Miller Trio; Ron- nie Wells and Ron Ellston; Jackie Williams; Junior Mance; Dennis Fisher Trio; Richie Cole Quartet with Lady Byron on the B-3 Organ; Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio; Junior Mance Trio; Frank Morgan Quartet; Valery Ponomarev Quartet; Ron Kearns Quintet. And that is all I can think of from the top of my head, but I do know it was many more. I also remember

I had a damn good time and that this festival included about 23 main stage ticket events and about 100 free, open to the public events. Oh mannnn, I could use a show like that now.

How am I doing so far? Are you smiling yet? Okay, I got some more fun memories. Do you remember when the Maceo’s Lounge located 1926 N. Monroe Street had live entertainment every Wednesday and Thursday nights featuring Bobby Ward Trio on Thurs- day nights and every Wednesday night Tiny Tim Har- ris and his band performed.

There was another concert stuck in my mind that happened right here in Baltimore. I can’t remember what year for sure, I believe it may have been in 2003 when WEAA 88.9 was celebrating their 25th Anniver- sary andthey put on a fantastic concert at the Gilliam Concert Hall of the Murphy Fine Arts Center on the campus of Morgan State University. The musicians I remembered performing were Cyrus Chestnut; Gary Bartz; Michael Bowie; Winard Harper; Dantae Winslow; Andy Ennis; Wendell Shephard, Dr. John Lamkin; Charlie Covington Timmy Shepherd; Michael Austin and I believe the hosts for this event were Ruby Glover; Sandi Mallory and Gary EllerbeOkay, my dear friends, I am hoping this week col- umn made you smile and start a positive conversation with your buddies and friends just long enough to take your mind off the COVID-19, masks and no live en- tertainment anyhere, because nowhere is safe these days. Make sure you pick up the Baltimore Times every week or read it on line and leave your comments.

Stay home, stay safe and 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.

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James and Brenda Hamlin, owners of the Avenue Bakery celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary this month. All of your patrons including Rambling Rose say, “Congratulations!”

Hello everyone, I hope all is well with you and your family. I just want to say that I know you are glad that the city and state are opening up again to the public step-by-step. Now in Stage 2, restaurants; parks; casinos; shopping centers; gyms; nail salons; barbershops; and malls are opening their doors to the public. Please don’t be a fool, COVID-19 is still out there. I am happy for the business owners but for us, we must be very careful. Keep your mask on, especially in places such as casinos; wear gloves. As much as we are anxious to get out there and be able to write about my music and entertainment again, I am in no hurry to hang out in a room full of people who refuse to wear a mask. But that’s me.

The Reginald F. Lewis Museum is introducing a new “Oral History” Project that will chronicle the African American Experience in Maryland. The project will lift voices that will capture stories from iconic members of the Black community, new voices championing for change and those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Called “Voices Lifted,” the project will capture, transcribe and digitize 50-70 new oral histories from iconic African American leaders and members of the Maryland community. The Lewis museum also plans to collect the stories of recent figures involved in Maryland’s peaceful protests against police brutality, as well as those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disproportionately affected the African American community.

Gathering the voices and memories of those who have participated in past events have been part of the Lewis Museum’s mission since it opened 15 years ago,” said Jackie Copeland, executive director of the Lewis Museum.These voices will be digitized to make them accessible to all.

The Reginald F. Lewis Museum is Maryland’s largest museum dedicated to the state’s African American experience. A Smithsonian affiliate, the museum engages visitors through its permanent and special exhibitions, community events and family programming.

Congratulations Reginald F. Lewis Museum! I, Rosa Pryor, aka “Rambling Rose” is proud to have been a part of this wonderful museum from the beginning when they placed my first book “African-American Entertainment in Baltimor.e” It was one of the first books placed on the shelves of their book store. The museum has a video of me talking about my books as an author of two history books and my history as the first Black female and successful Entertainment Booking Agent for local and national musicians for the past 60 years in the Baltimore Metropolitan area on a wide screen on the second floor of the museum. I have given many lectures, demonstrations and book signings at the Reginald Lewis and hope to continue. Congratulations Reginald F. Lewis Museum. I salute you!

Hopefully by now you have heard that Chef Dante Daniels and his wife Candes have opened a second location of Colin’s Seafood & Grill located at 1728 E. Northern Parkway for carry-out only. Inside dinning will be opened soon. Congratulations my friend!

Okay folks, I really have to go now. Just remember if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com and tell me what’s going on in the entertainment world. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

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Ray Gaskins, Baltimore’s own, internationally known saxophonist is in need of your prayers. He is in Arlington West Care Center, 3939 Penhurst Avenue. He had a major stroke. It was reported that he is unable to talk or move any part of his body except his head. It has been almost a year since it was reported that he was in hospice care with severe dementia. Hopefully his musician family and his fans will send cards and get well balloons or something to at least make him smile and to let him know you care.

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Former radio host of the “Tom Joyner Morning Show” and disc jockey from Magic 95.9 FM Radio Station, recently suffered a stroke last month and at last report he is in rehabilitation.

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Hello everyone! Hoping all is well with you and your family. Hoping that you are safe and healthy during this Coronavirus Pandemic. I understand and know that this year Father’s Day will be different than any other Father’s Day you have ever live through, but there is a rainbow at the end of this tunnel. Normally I would suggest that the children, grand-children; nephews, nieces, wives or the significant other take their loved one out to dinner to his favorite eatery, take him to a jazz or music concert or like my husband, give him a few hundred dollars to go to the casino, but I am not suggesting any of the above. As far as I am concerned it is too dangerous to do any of that right now. Instead you can first get a very special card dedicated to him with a little “something-something” in it; maybe buy him that favorite tool or lawn equipment he has been hinting around about all year or surprise him with that wide screen television he has been talking about to put into his man-cave. You can fix his favorite meal or if he is a seafood lover, you can surprise him with a family and close friends crab feast cook-out in your backyard, but it is mandatory that everyone should wear a mask unless they are eating and honor social distance.

If you wish good food carry-out only for right now, than I suggest Colin’s Seafood & Grill owned by Dante at his second location, 1728 E. Northern Parkway in the Loch Raven Shopping Center. He will open for full services soon. Call 443-708-1680 to put your order in. He also caters for special events, such as Father’s Day. You don’t have to cook— the will do it for you and deliver. Dante, I am looking for your Grand-Opening of your new restaurant and congratulations.

Remember stay safe if you choose to go out to the public places that are opening up this week, please protect yourself, wear your mask and gloves.

Enjoy this Father’s Day Weekend!

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Walter Carr, Jr.

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Bryant Haysbert

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Cleve Brister

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Gamel “DJ MEL” Moore

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Dr. Marcelina Albuerne

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Dwight Pettit

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James “Big Jim” Staton

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Judson Hughes

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Kweisi MFume

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Larry Gibson

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Lenny Moore

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Michael Haynie

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Travis Winky

There is an old hymn entitled, “May The Work I’ve Done Speak For Me” The song’s lyrics speaks to the works of a person serving as a testament of the life they lived after they have passed on. This song epitomizes the late Tyra Phillips Womack, a radio announcer on WEAA Gospel Grace Afternoon.

“Tyra’s legacy is as wide as it is deep,” said Derryck Fletcher, Gospel Director for WEAA and host of Gospel Grace Morning Show. “Her legacy is all of the many folks who stand on her shoulders. Tyra always took joy in supporting other people and helping them to fulfill their fullest potential. Her primary legacy is Jerel her son. She gave him life, and she protected his life.”

The beloved 57-year-old who was known on the airwaves as “Tyra Phillips,” died June 10, 2020 after being shot outside her home in the 2400 block of Albion Avenue.

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Members of the Gospel Grace family: Derryck Fletcher, Ernestine Jones, Tyra Phillips, Joi Thomas, Jamal McCollum and Mark Waldrum.

The Baltimore Police Department released a statement saying, “This was a senseless, tragic murder, as many are, and it appears to have stemmed from a neighbor dispute. Investigators began receiving information almost immediately and have identified a person of interest.”

Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for 56-year-old, Richard Sylvester Green. He was arrested June 16, 2020 in the 8600 block of Philadelphia Road, and has been charged with 1st and 2nd degree murder.

Womack, who was shot several times, reportedly died protecting her son Jerel Womack.

“There is literally a hole in our hearts over this senseless tragedy,” said Fletcher. “Seeing that Tyra made the ultimate sacrifice for Jerel was not surprising for me. She protected her son even until her last breath.”

A public viewing for Womack will be held Friday, June 19, 2020 from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Apostolic Faith Church, 27 S. Caroline Street in Baltimore, where she was a long-time member.

A “Celebration of Life” will take place Saturday, June 20, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the same location (family members only). Services will be streamed via Facebook, firstapostolic.tv and YouTube.

“Tyra is literally the sweetest person you could ever meet,” said Fletcher. “I have known Tyra for 23 years. Tyra has had continuous service at the station since 1989. None of us on the team have ever experienced WEAA 88.9 FM without her.”

The Sunday following her death, WEAA dedicated the day’s programming to her memory.

“We all talked about the impact Tyra had on all of us,” said Fletcher. “She was so nurturing, maternal, and caring.”

Ernestine Jones is the host of Gospel Grace at Daybreak.

“Tyra did the Church Announcements for over 30 years,” said Jones, noting that Womack also worked as a mail carrier before becoming an administrative assistant for the U.S. Postal Service.

“When I came on board, she was already there doing church announcements. We would split them up. Tyra would always let me take mine first. She would say, ‘just leave me what’s left.’ She always put others before herself. She was very humble.”

Jones said that she, Womack and Joi Thomas, host of Gospel Grace Afternoon were often referred to as ‘The Church Girls’ and the ‘Divas of Gospel Grace.’

“Tyra had a saying, ‘Therefore, having obtained help from God, I continue unto this day.’” said Jones. “And that was what she did. I have a message Tyra texted to me six hours before her demise. I will never get rid of that text.”

Chanel Crowder said she has been a part of the Gospel Grace family since 1997.

“Tyra was so sweet and loving. She loved God so much and embraced everyone. We are devastated and shocked about what happened. Her faith, family, church, and Gospel Grace family were the things she most enjoyed. Tyra was a special person we will always cherish and remember.”

Heaven 600 AM on-air radio host Lee Michaels shared reflections about Womack.

“She was always a pleasant and warm spirit, whose signature dimpled smile exposed the love of God that was in her heart!” said Michaels.

Frederico Hemphill recalled working with Womack years ago on Video Hair Magazine, a television show that highlighted black hair and fashion. Hemphill said the two first met as students at the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland (BIM).

“I asked Tyra if she would host Video Hair Magazine,” said Hemphill. “We were an independent show with no money. She agreed to do it with no pay. Tyra just lit up the camera. She was a natural.”

He added, “I never met Tyra’s son. I only knew her daughter. But if her son possesses even a fraction of the qualities she possessed, I believe he is going to be a very powerful young man. Because of Tyra’s actions, another black man did not die that day.”

Kim Chase hosts WEAA’s Live and Uncut.

“Tyra was always smiling, pleasant, and agreeable,” said Chase. “She was always understanding, and carried herself as a Christian woman.”

Mark Waldrum is the host of Gospel Grace Instruments of Praise.

“Tyra was organized and dedicated”, said Waldrum. “She was God-fearing, professional and took her craft seriously. She did everything to a tee. She was a wonderfully Godly woman. She was proud of her son, family and church.”

He added, “The way she left us saddens me. I think it highlights we must do something about the violence. We are totally fed-up. Tyra was such an influencer of young people. That’s her legacy.”

Hello everyone, how are you? I am telling you this has been a hell-la-VA week! But still no live entertainment, music concerts, jazz shows or park festivals. TERRIBLE SITUATION! But, we must think positively.

Now since you know I don’t talk about politics or sports we won’t mention anything about the “White House” or anyone in it. But, I did hear that the man in charge of that house, walked over to a church in Washington, D.C. to do a photo op or something like that and he held up this Bible upside- down for whatever reason and started lying again and lightning stuck the antenna of the roof of the church and spiraled down and struck the man that was holding the Bible upside-down in front of the church and was bar-b-cued right on site. I’m just saying, that is what I heard. Go ahead and (smile), I know you want to. It’s okay because I laughed my ass off.

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Renowned Baltimore photographer, Anderson Ward (with camera) celebrating 100th Anniversary of the Druid Hill Avenue, YMCA. (Pictured) J. Laws Nickens; E. Gaines Lansey; Stanley A. Waters Sr.; Eugene Costor; and Jimmy Hayes.

I have started writing my third book, an extension of my second book, African American Community, History & Entertainment in Maryland. However, this one will be a hard back table-top book with many more photos, stories and over 18 chapters about the history of your family and friends, your community, neighborhoods, nightclubs, restaurants, and musicians, including: Caribbean families who live in America, their festivals, lifestyle, music, and costumes, etc.

This book will also include stories about historical churches; popular ministers; hospitals; schools you went to; gangsters; politicians; and all your memories from the good old days. Let me preserve your history once again. Send me your pictures by email to: or mail to: 214 Conewood Avenue, Reisterstown, Maryland 21136. The photos you send must be from the 1950s thru 1980s. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me anytime.

Okay! Now, let’s talk about a couple of fun things to do. Do you remember I wrote about one of my favorite places I like to go on Sundays? It was the Baltimore Farmers’ Market back in April’s column and because of the COVID-19 they cancelled to further notice? Well, darlings they will open this weekend. That’s right! The Baltimore Farmers Market & Bazaar is opening Sunday, June 14, 2020 from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Sunday until December 20, 2020. The Market is located underneath the Jones Falls Expressways at Holliday and Saratoga Streets— rain or shine! You have to wear a mask or face covering and no more than four people in a group.

The Druid Hill YMCA is celebrating 100 years. The Druid Hill Y has occupied a significant place in Baltimore’s history as a symbol of opportunity. The Druid Hill Y has a rich and illustrious history that began before it moved to its current home at 1609 Druid Hill Avenue. It has played particularly a meaningful role in the development of African Americans living in and around Druid Hill during segregation and throughout Baltimore’s history, as a focal point for physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.

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Bishop Naomi C. DuRant Radio legendary broadcaster known from the historic WEBB Radio Station and WBGR AM 860 James Brown Radio Station as well as the pastor of the New Refuge Cathedral in Baltimore passed away last week at age 80. Condolences to the Family from “Rambling Rose.” We worked together back in the day.

During segregation, the Druid Hill YMCA was the only place in Baltimore where African Americans could swim at an indoor pool. As children, Thurgood Marshall, who rose to become the first African American Justice of the Supreme Court; and jazz legend Cab Calloway both lived in walking distance and learned to swim at the Druid Hill Y. Now, its home to a rich array of programs fostering youth development, healthy living and social responsibility serving the individuals, families and youth of the Druid Hill, Upton and surrounding communities now and for centuries to come. Happy 100th Anniversary Druid Hill YMCA!

Just a reminder about a couple of cancellations announced that the Baltimore Office of Promotion & the Arts (BOPA): Artscape 2020 has been canceled and will return in 2021. Also Baltimore’s 4th of July Celebration and Picnic at the Top is also cancelled for 2020.

Well my friends, I’ve got to go. Stay safe and please wear a mask. Next week, I will do a special column for Father’s Day. Until then, remember I love you. If you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at . UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello everyone, I know when you look at these photos you may think that the “Rambling Rose” column has changed into an obituary column. No fear, I promise that is not happening. It was Memorial Day weekend, and since it is impossible for me to name all of our friends and your friends and family members that we have lost in the recent months and days, I thought I will stick with the entertainment side. Entertainment is really my professional thing, so I want to acknowledge some of the people/artist, who we know you may be familiar with who has recently passed away.

To all my readers and followers who have lost someone since this terrible coronavirus pandemic started, please know that you and your family are in my prayers. Hopefully we can get pass all of this terrible situation and began to smile and just remember your loved one in a positive way, remember the good times; think of something about them that will put a smile on your face.

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Whit Williams, another friend and musician passed away May 21, 2020. He was such a gentlemen. He was a legendary saxophonist, educator, composer and arranger. He lived in Baltimore and was a part of the jazz scene for many years. In 1981, he founded the “Whit Williams’ Now’s the Time Big Band” and the group performed with Aretha Franklin and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. In 2008, he released the album, “The Whit Williams Now’s The Time,” featuring Slide Hampton and Jimmy Heath. My condolences to his family and his music family.

Even though some of our counties and our state has opened in some situations, the Covid-19 has still caused the cancellations of jazz and music festivals that we would normally attend this time of the year. It’s disappointing news for the state of Rhode Island. The Newport Folk and Jazz Festival that was set to take place at Fort Adams this summer, has been canceled. All ticket holders for this festival have the option of a 100% full refund if desired. The Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals were created by George Wein (now 94 years old) in 1994 and 1959 respectively. These festivals are two of the largest running music festivals in history.

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Kevin Barnes, a member of Jimmy Briscoe & the Little Beavers passed away May 14, 2020. Kevin sang baritone for the famous recording group. The group members were Jimmy Briscoe, Stanford Stansberry, Kevin Barnes, Maurice Pulley, and Robert Markins were the original Jimmy Briscoe & the Little Beavers. Bobby Finch replaced Markins in 1977. Condolences to his family.

The 2020 Hampton Jazz Festival known for bringing the best of jazz, blues, soul, and R&B to Hampton Roads has announced that it is also canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic and has been postponed until June 2021. Refunds will be issued automatically for those purchased online through Ticketmaster. Refunds for tickets purchased at the box office can be obtained by returning the purchased tickets once the office opens up to the public.

The 28th Annual Capital Jazz Fest, originally scheduled for June 5-7, 2020 at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland has been postponed. This is one of my favorite festivals. Each year in early June, tens of thousands of music lovers from throughout the country flock to the suburbs of Washington, D.C. to attend “the jazz festival with soul”; The Capital Jazz Fest started in 1993, this multi-day multi-stage outdoor music festival, which attracts music lovers nationwide, is more than just a concert, it’s an event! It’s a place to people-watch, eat drink, shop, mingle, relax, soak in the rays, make new friends, and of course hear some of the coolest jazz and soul music on the planet. In-between musical sets, enjoy fine art and crafts at the Festival Marketplace, culinary treats at the food court, and meet & greet the artists. Hopefully next year we all can be there.

The 2020 French Quarter Festival and Satchmo Summerfest have also been officially canceled. Satchmo Summerfest, a celebration of the legacy of New Orleans native Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, is generally the first week of August at the Old U.S. Mint. The free French Quarter Festival, which draws hundreds of thousands of attendees every year with a program consisting almost entirely of south Louisiana musicians.

We try not to ever miss the New Orleans Festivals. My “Boo-Boo” and I go every year to these festivals to cover the exciting events for my “Rambling Rose”column. . We love New Orleans, it is always full of life, fun, live entertainment on every street corner and happy people. Now, the new 2021 dates for the festivals are April 8-11 for French Quarter Festival and July 30-August 1, 2021 for Satchmo Summerfest. The French Quarter Festival followed the same path as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the Essence Festival of Culture and the Buku Music + Art Project.

Oh well, I know I should be trying to put a smile on your face and talking about something positive, but this were the cards I was dealt. So in the meantime, stay strong, safe and healthy. And 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.