** IN CASE OF INCLEMENT WEATHER, REFER TO THE A&M TEXARKANA WEBSITE OR CONTACT CORRINE HINTON AT CHINTON@TAMUT.EDU **
A&M-Texarkana will be hosing a worship for poets, aspiring authors, and lovers of literature! Both the workshop and reading will take place on Thursday, May 9th. The workshop will be at 5:30-7 p.m. in University Center room 230, followed by a reading from 7:30-9 p.m. in UC 217.
Joy Ladin is an American poet and the David and Ruth Gottesman Chair in English at Stern College for Women at Yeshiva University. She is the first openly transgender professor at an Orthodox Jewish institution. Joy Ladin is an American poet and the David and Ruth Gottesman Chair in English at Stern College for Women at Yeshiva University. She is the first openly transgender professor at an Orthodox Jewish institution.
In 2013, Ladin published a series of poems formed entirely from words and phrases found in popular women’s magazines. These poems, such as “Ready To Know,” link both trans women and cis women’s experiences of gender to the “commodity capitalist engine of the production of femininity.” This work emerged when Ladin gave herself a “writing assignment” to creatively engage with the “how-to” rhetoric of mainstream femininity.
“I am a teacher, widely published essayist and poet, literary scholar, and nationally known speaker on transgender issues” Ladin says. Ladin has given invited talks and readings at many universities and colleges such as Harvard and Smith College. After this Thursday, A&M University of Texarkana can be added to the list.
Finding the right guitar can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there is so much to consider before you purchase your first guitar. Whether you want an electric guitar or an acoustic, it is important to know what sound you want to achieve. Acoustic guitars are soft and mellow in sound. It is the type of guitar you play around a camp fire, for example. Electric guitars are raw and more vibrant in sound. If you want to shred some riffs and rock, an electric is the guitar for you.
In addition to knowing what sound you want to achieve, you will have to consider purchasing oil for the neck of the guitar, picks, extra strings, pedals, and amps, all the things you will need for guitar maintenance to make your guitar last longer. These vary depending on the type of guitar that you purchase, but know that you will be spending quite a bit when you get started.
Something to consider is the cost of the guitar and additional gear that you will need for maintenance. The typical guitar costs as low as $300 and as high as $3000. Something to remember here is the quality of the guitar. You will typically see quality reflected in the price of the guitar. The best thing to do is shop around because you might find a great guitar in a pawn shop or you can find a reasonably priced guitar at a local music store. Definitely don’t be afraid to check out the higher-end guitar sellers, such as Fender and Gibson because they might be able to give you a better idea of what you are looking for. A cool place to check out, especially if you are ever in Chicago, Chicago Music Exchange. They have a great selection of guitars to choose from, in addition to other musical instruments.
If you want an electric guitar, keep in mind that you will be spending more on additional items for your guitar. Electric guitars rely on amps to amplify their sound. You can also change the sounds of your electric by hooking up pedals to your amp, such as the wah-wah pedal or an overdrive pedal. That being said, the acoustic is a great first guitar because it tends to be a little less costly than an electric, nor does it require as many accessories.
Something to also consider in the process of purchasing your guitar is the playability of the guitar. Definitely go for a thin-necked guitar with good flexible strings so that you will have a more comfortable time playing. Go and play around with the different guitars in person to find what feels right to you. Something to consider as well regarding playability is whether you are left-handed or right-handed, but no worries! They make guitars for both lefties and righties.
After you purchase your first guitar, whether acoustic or electric, remember that practice makes perfect. You might not sound like Van Halen or Slash from Guns N Roses right away, but with time you can achieve that level of play. Ultimately, guitar is one of the coolest instruments to learn to play, and is one of the most popular instruments on the market today.
The potential for technology has dramatically improved in recent years. We now have Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality. Video games are becoming more realistic. Robots are becoming more human-like. Driverless or self-driving cars are being tested. The possibilities are endless in the age of technology. However, these new developments make some question whether the benefits truly outweigh the potential for these advances to be used for something more sinister. Peyton Gregory, a mother-to-be, said, “These dangerous aspects of technology are really terrifying for parents when considering the safety of their children.” Lauren Johnson, a local high school student, said that such technologies really freak her out and she would never want to use such technology if it were offered to her.
In recent months we have been introduced to deepfakes, and voice cloning technology. Deepfake technology is used to create fake videos by taking images of a person’s face to create a moving image. Initially it was designed for film production in Hollywood. Although revolutionary, deepfakes are being used to create revenge porn, which started to surface on Reddit in 2017. Many young female actresses such as Selena Gomez, Emma Watson, and Scarlett Johannson have fallen victim to having their faces placed into these inappropriate videos. This form of technology has also plagued the lives of everyday women. Not only does it lead to fake porn and silly memes, but the creation of fake news reports and government videos. This is very dangerous to the safety of the nation, taking into consideration military and governmental use of such technologies. It could become very dangerous and even disastrous. It has the potential to lead the way to another World War if it were used strategically.
Voice cloning technology can use one’s voice to create a computerized voice avatar that is supposed to sound just like their very own and can be used to say anything that is typed into the computer. A program designed by Adobe Voco has this same concept, which was never released to the public because of these scary scenarios. However, an app available to the general public called Lyrebird can be used for those willing to share their voice. Regardless of the revolutionary aspect of these new developments, the potential for them to be used in a negative way still stands a risk if it were to land in the wrong hands.
Technology is constantly changing, and soon, even how we write will not be the same. But change can be a good thing if it is gradual. And it will not be like certain robot takeover movies. That’s right, robots! This is a great thing if our crazy imaginations do not intervene.
Robotics is one of the greatest innovations in science and technology. There are current observations on robots where scientists study their logistics to better aid them when performing aggressive tasks. Unfortunately, robots might be better than us, yet they need our supervision to function properly.
Boston Dynamics is one of the leading companies in the robotics industry. The developers there have created many robots with impressive functions. One is called Spot which is built similar to a dog. A video has two Spots thinking to each about how to open a door. One of them eventually opens the door so the other Spot goes out along with the other.
Another robot is called Atlas. It’s designed to have motor functions like a human. Another incredible video shows him jumping onto and over every obstacle. He falls over in the end but for comedic attribute. Atlas is still operational to this day. Dynamics have also made another version where he can go outside through any type of environment.
In recent times, an achievement of Boston Dynamics happened to be 10 spots pull a large truck. This has become very shocking to the people due to the success of these robotic dogs performing a miraculous task.
Who knows what will happen next?!
All the world is changing, for better and worse. Old technology may soon be gone, but the new technology can make impossible dreams a reality, especially robots.
Horror films are great, but it’s never fun to find out the film is based on a true story. The people of Texarkana might be interested in learning about a horror film based on an event that took place in their very own hometown. The film, The Town That Dreaded Sundown, premiered in 1976, followed by a sequel. The world premiere was held in Texarkana on Dec. 17, 1976, before it was released in theaters on Dec. 24. These films are loosely based on the horrific moonlight murders of the Phantom Killer.
The attacks occurred in the spring of 1946, from late February to early May. The murderer attacked young and middle-aged couples. The first two victims, Jimmy Hollis and Mary Larey, survived an attack that occurred on February 22, 1946. The second attack occurred four weeks later, ending the lives of Richard Griffin and Polly Ann Moore. Three weeks after that, the Phantom Killer struck again, this time taking the lives of Paul Martin and Betty Jo Booker. Three weeks later, on May 3, 1946, Virgil Starks was shot and killed in his home by the Phantom Killer, and Straks’ wife Katie was left severely wounded.
As in the films, the real Phantom Killer was never identified. However, the prime suspect in the case was Youell Swinney, who was never convicted of the murders. The case remains unsolved, which has left the town of Texarkana in suspense.
For more information on the murders click here or here.
The JMBLYA is back for 2019 and ready to invade the city of Dallas (May 3rd) and Austin, Texas (May 4th).
Photo Courtesy JMBLYA 2018.
JMBLYA is a recurring outdoor music festival featuring artist from all over the world.
This year’s lineup includes Travis Scott, Lil Wayne, Kevin Gates, Gunna, Sheck Wes, Youngboy Never Broke Again, Bhad bhabie, Blueface, City girls, Maxo Kream, P-Lo, WhooKilledKenny, and 10K.Caash
JMBLYA is a rain or shine event and will open festival gates open at 12PM on Friday, May 3rd (Dallas) and Saturday, May 4th (Austin).
Children 3 1/2 feet tall and shorter are admitted FREE if accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. There will be no children under the age of 14 allowed in without the supervision of an adult.
General admission ticket pricing begins at $109.00, along with four different selections (Pinky Ring, Gator Boots, Fur Coat, Drop Top) of VIP packets to choose from. JMBLYA has a strict no-pet policy, with exceptions only for service animals as specified by federal and state law.
Photo Courtesy JMBLYA 2018.
JMBLYA will offer multiple free water refilling stations. You are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, however, just be sure to have them empty upon entry. There will also be water and other non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase at the bar.
To ensure the safety of our JMBLYA family, all vehicles, persons and property are always subject to search, failure to consent to a search will result in denial of entry or ejection from the event.
Parking will be available at both festival sites. Stay tuned for more details.
For many people, success in the broadcast journalism career field happens at a rare chance, but for people like Brittanni Strambler, her hustle and networking takes her to the next level.
Brittanni Strambler is a Houston, Texas native who takes her hustle to heart. She is a TV host and radio personality heard on 95.3 Jamz. According to Brittanni, her job in the industry has allowed her to influence the lives of others around the local community. “The impact I have on a community and the responsibilities I hold through storytelling. Staying relevant can be stressful at times, especially when trying to engage millions of people”, she said “working in the industry has many pros that outweigh the cons.”
Broadcast media involves more than sitting behind a microphone and speaking. To get involved in this line of work, “You can never go wrong with a YouTube channel,” Strambler said. Finding mentors and reading about other success stories can also be a great way to gain knowledge on the industry.
“My mentor has definitely played a huge role in my success. He is the CEO of the station I currently work for and he listens in to every show and gives me negative/positive feedback,” Strambler said.
Just recently Brittani and NFL player DeAndre Washington of the Oakland Raiders teamed up on D.Wash Foundation first annual Youth Football Camp at the Thurgood Marshall high school in Missouri,Texas. The event allowed for enhancement of young boys and girls lives to enable them to make a positive impact on the football field and in their community.
Experience and preparation for broadcast journalism comes by taking advantage of internships and mentors, networking, and getting involved with one’s campus radio and television station. Strambler believes the best way to get started with an entry-level position is by applying for positions within a media company and working one’s way up. Strambler said one’s schedule may vary because news, sports, politics, and entertainment change daily.
As a six-year veteran in the broadcast field, Strambler’s best advice for any newcomer is to “Build your network, stay relevant and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
For more about Brittani, follow her on instagram @bri_media.
For the first time in 40 years the Perot Theatre is open to the public to play holiday movies, in a collaboration between the City of Texarkana, Texas and TRAHC, and Perot Theatre to bring Texarkana a new holiday tradition.
The event will take place on December 22, 2018 at the Perot Theatre in Downtown Texarkana. This is an all day event for the community to come and enjoy. There will also be food trucks, vendors, crafts, refreshments, and holiday movies shown throughout the day. The forecast has predicted for snow to fall on Main Street.
The first holiday movie to be shown will be Polar Express at 10:30 a.m. followed by How the Grinch Stole Christmas (short film) at 1 p.m. The Elf will be shown at 1:30 p.m., with the grand finale of It’s a Wonderful Life at 7 p.m.
Santa Claus will make a stop for photo appearances.
Ticket prices range from $5-7. To purchase tickets call (903) 792-4992. For more information click here.
Clear your mind, and reach deep within yourself in order to vividly dream YOUR dreams because in order to succeed, you need to know what you want in life. This book, Blessed and Unstoppable, was designed to put you in a position to gain strength, a deeper knowledge, and exert your full potential in order to move in greater steps. The author of Blessed and Unstoppable Billy Alsbrooks stated that“My book was written to initiate action, not to just sit back and read.” He also explains that “Each day in my book has self assessment questions that set in motion a change in mindset, to open the mind up in a strategic way so that it can design the breakthroughs required to step into greatness”. I believe this book is about waking up your purpose and the dreams that God has planned for your life. This book is so precious, and points out the fact that the readers of this book have a great deal of potential as well. “If a person wants to achieve the highest levels of success, they must be willing to do the inner homework required” Mr. Alsbrooks says. Therefore, I strongly recommend this book to all students, and staff on campus, as well as the community. This book will take everyone to the next level, and lead you towards your purpose as you answer the questions throughout the book. However, Blessed and Unstoppable is only available for purchase as a physical copy. “On digital devices, it’s too easy to skip past the homework and the action steps laid out in the book,” Alsbrooks said. “I want people to stop and think and then take massive action.” So go now. Purchase the book and get ready for a new change. “For I know the thoughts that I think towards you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Check out Billy Alsbrooks website here, and click this to check out his YouTube channel.
Majic 93.3’s radio host, Keeta “King” Hodge poses with soul blues radio host, DJ Godfather. The soulful show will begin Saturday morning 9 a.m.-2 p.m. December 1st. Photo Credit: Dodson & Glover Photography.
Texarkana’s Majic 93.3 welcomes DJ Godfather to their urban R&B station. The well-known radio personality kicked off his new show Saturday, December 1st 9 a.m.-2 p.m. with great music, entertainment, and a special guest for local southern blues soul listeners.
“We will debut the hottest Southern Soul, Blues and Zydeco show in the Ark-la-tex starring the legendary DJ Godfather. The Godfather of Southern Soul, Blues & Zydeco has a new home after 26 years and we are kicking off the party with celebrity guest and Southern Soul Sensation, Jeter Jones”, said Majic 93.3’s radio host, Keeta Hodge King.
DJ Godfather’s new Soul, and Southern Blues show kicks off December 1st. Photo Credit Dodson & Glover Photo Credit/Majic 93.3.
As a youthful, yet throwback R&B station, the local radio station believes this radio veteran will add a new flavor for Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas listeners. “We are an Urban AC [Adult Contemporary] station that plays Today’s R&B and Throwbacks with a few ‘Classic Hip Hop Throwbacks’. The Godfather will bring a fresh soulful edge with the best Southern Soul and Blues”, said King.
DJ Godfather will also have a special weekend position. “He will also be the station’s only live voice on the weekend. He plays music that caters to the bike club world, trail riders, blues lovers, and southern soul fans”, said King.
Before joining the Majic 93.3 radio family, DJ Godfather worked as a competing radio show host. “DJ Godfather has been a household name for many years due to the personal approach he takes to DJing, however he was on the competitor station, KTOY 104.7 FM”, said King.
Majic 93.3’s DJ Godfather and Keeta “King” Hodge. Photo Credit: Dodson & Glover Photography.
Despite working as Majic 93.3’s former competitor, it did not stop Hodge from listening the soulful radio host with the up most respect. “Even then, I listened to him on Saturday mornings as far as I could on my drive home, and I always thought how I awesome it would be if I could bring him to Majic 93.3. As fate would have it, we were able to make that happen officially on Dec. 1st”, said King.
With R&B as her first love, King could not resist the soulful sounds of the blues after a particular working memory. “I started with R&B. However, one night when working at a nightclub call Mr. D’s, the club owner came up and said to me, “DJ Godfather you going to have to start playing some blues or I’m going to replace you with someone else.” To keep my job, I started playing Southern Soul and Blues, and I fell in love”, said King.
Majic 93.3’s Southern Soul and Blues radio host, DJ Godfather. Photo Credit: Dodson & Glover Photography.
Like King, newcomers and Southern Blues and Soul listeners will enjoy the new sounds the passionate radio host will bring to the Ark-Tex-La area. “Nobody does it like DJ Godfather, and everyone in the surrounding areas, near or far knows when the Godfather Southern Soul, Blues and Zydeco Show comes on, it’s time to party and move your feet”, said King.
The soulful blues man looks forward to bringing his talents and his famous saying ” to magical station. “The general public will enjoy seeing & hearing how HE, himself, enjoys what he does. He is very passionate about his audience and his music! He brings excitement to the mic every show and people can look forward to him getting them up and moving on Saturday mornings with the best of the best Southern Soul, Blues and Zydeco”, said King.
Tune in Saturdays! “I am that humble man who has a love for music, a love for people and entertainment. All my glory goes to God”, said DJ Godfather.
To catch DJ Godfather’s new show or for upcoming events:
