April 16, 2020
Aries
MAR 21 - APR 19
Early in the week, you might feel like you've lost it when it comes to nearly every area of your life -- including romance. It seems that the harder you push to try to have things your way, the more frustrated you'll become. Remember, you can't make anyone love you and you certainly wouldn't want to. Besides, you know you're worth "all or nothing" when it comes to matters of the heart. Still, it's possible that you might try to hold on too tight out of fear of losing someone. Don't. Instead, why not try surrendering control? Letting go might get you exactly what your heart desires, Aries.
Taurus
APR 20 - MAY 20
If you feel like your partner is hiding something from you this week, you could be right. It might not be something that is a dealbreaker, but it'll probably feel uncomfortable enough for you to let your mate know that he or she has crossed a line. If you're single, it's possible you'll connect with someone on a work-related matter this weekend and he or she will find your business acumen wildly attractive. This person will respect your mind and your reputation. You'll want to explore to see where this could go.
Gemini
MAY 21 - JUN 20
With Venus moving through your sign, you've got all the magnetism possible to help you attract love and harmony. If you're in a relationship, you and your sweetheart might enjoy a sexy adventure of the mind this week. The two of you might take an online workshop or class together on an unusual subject that you both want to learn more about -- and yes, that'll somehow serve as an aphrodisiac! Single? You might find yourself talking to your friends about love and getting their perspective on how you should and shouldn't be pursuing it.
Cancer
JUN 21 - JUL 22
If you find yourself tempted to put out sexual vibes early in the week to help you get ahead professionally, think again. Not only is this out of character for you, but you won't feel proud about selling yourself out in order to gain an opportunity. Conversely, be aware of the potential for your boss or a VIP connected to your career to make a pass at you. This is unlikely to be about genuine romantic connection though, so don't take the bait! If you're in a relationship, then you might hear that your partner is experiencing something similar this week. Yuck.
Leo
JUL 23 - AUG 22
If you're in a relationship, then this should be a very sexy and busy week for you and your mate. The two of you might connect with friends in some way this weekend -- and that somehow gets both of you in the mood for love! If you're single, then it'll be a great week to attend a virtual relationship-oriented workshop that has spiritual connotations. You might do this with a friend, and both of you will learn all about your love languages or how to really attract the right type of person in your own ways. It'll be enlightening!
Virgo
AUG 23 - SEP 22
If you're dating someone, then early this week love could really feel like a battlefield. Your lover might make you feel way too pressured to do things his or her way. In fact, you might even start to feel as if your connection is bordering on unhealthy obsession. Take a step back and examine what's really happening between all the possessiveness and control. Single? This might not be a good week to connect with someone new. This person could show interest -- but in a creepy way that makes you uneasy instead of what you're looking for. Avoid it.
Libra
SEP 23 - OCT 22
With Mars moving through your romance sector, you're not exactly asleep at the wheel these days when it comes to love and sex. Even if you're totally single, it's likely that someone out there has you all hot and bothered (in a good way)! Happily, it's possible that someone you're crushing on will send you a clear signal this week that he or she is ready to play the game of love with you. Enjoy! If you're in a relationship, you might hit a rough patch early in the week -- but by the weekend, you'll somehow manage to put it behind you and focus on the playfulness of your love connection.
Scorpio
OCT 23 - NOV 21
This week, you and your partner might brainstorm a plan to improve your joint finances. Another possibility is that you'll both feel like putting more work into your intimate life together. This can be by having mindful conversations about your mutual needs and desires, or by putting in the effort to implement something that makes you both feel seen and heard. If you're single, this might be a time to consider how much weight you're giving to what a potential love interest can offer you. Maybe it's time to regroup and acknowledge what you've got to give as well.
Sagittarius
NOV 22 - DEC 21
You may throw a bit of a tantrum when it comes to love and romance this week. You might tell yourself that no one you're meeting is good enough for you -- or that they're more interested in trying to control you, rather than truly get to know you. While shreds of truth might be connected to these thoughts, it may be more productive to reframe altogether how you're approaching matters of the heart. That's right, you need to kill the script you currently have in your head and cultivate one that's based on empowerment rather than paranoia, fear, or resentment. It'll be so powerful when you flip this mental switch ... and so worth it!
Capricorn
DEC 22 - JAN 19
Early in the week, you might be quite unwilling to compromise. On Tuesday, the Sun will square off to Pluto in your sign, which will make you most interested in having all the control in a situation over anything else. For some reason, it's a safety thing to you, and although you may feel that the only way to maintain your security is by pulling rank, it looks like that approach could take a toll on your love life. Be aware! If you're single, then it's possible you will decide to spend money on your health or fitness -- and somehow meet a new love interest while focused on your wellness!
Aquarius
JAN 20 - FEB 18
You've got sensational opportunities for passion and romance! Venus is moving through your true love sector and Mars is currently in your sign. This is a gorgeous combination of energies to support you in connecting with scintillating new love interests who completely vibe with everything that makes you unique! If you're single, multiple dating prospects are available to you. Even if you're in a relationship, you'll likely receive seductive attention from someone who knows how to sweet talk. Go ahead and flirt if you're not in a commitment -- there's a lot of fun to be had this week, Aquarius!
Pisces
FEB 19 - MAR 20
It's the type of week where you and your sweetie are far more interested in snuggling up on the couch together instead of going your separate ways and doing your own things. You might introduce your folks to your new love if you've been dating someone long enough to "meet the parents." If so, you can expect it to go very well with lively conversations and positive vibes all around. If you're single, don't be surprised if a family member insists on setting you up on a blind date! According to this relative, it could be fun -- so be open, Pisces!
April 16, 2020
LAWT News Service
Ava DuVernay’s non-profit foundation ARRAY Alliance has launched a $250,000 funding initiative, ARRAY GRANTS, for organizations and individuals dedicated to narrative change by people of color and women of all kinds.
ARRAY Grants recognizes regional film festivals and screening series, as well as arts advocates, filmmakers, creators and journalists. The goal of ARRAY Grants is to provide vital financial support to grassroots entities that serve as a cultural catalyst for narrative change.
Unrestricted ARRAY Grants of $10,000 have been awarded to the following 14 inaugural honorees that serve African-American, Latinx, Asian-American, Native- American, multiethnic and women-centric film communities: BronzeLens Film Festival, Cine Latino Film Festival, IllumiNative, Sankofa Film Society, Gary International Black Film Festival, UrbanWorld Festival, Cinema Sala, Lumbee Film Festival, Indigenous Film Festival, Black Femme Supremacy Film Festival, Visual Communications, ImageNation, Cinema Detroit and the Houston Museum of African American Culture. Additional ARRAY Grants were also presented to The Sarah Jones Film Foundation and to Wilson Morales of BlackFilm.com.
In addition to financial support, ARRAY convened 14 grantees for its inaugural skills- building summit, ARRAY Ascend, at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. ARRAY also awarded consultation grants and commissioned Bridge Philanthropy to provide ongoing strategic mentorship addressing the more urgent needs of the organizations.
“Establishing ARRAY Grants furthers ARRAY’s mission to support arts advocates around the country that are cultural necessities in their communities. With more content from creators of color and women being made, it’s crucial to support the organizations that nurture and nourish these voices,” said Regina Miller,
ARRAY Alliance Executive Director. “In just the last few weeks, we’ve all gained a new appreciation for the value of human connection and the simple comfort of being together, sharing stories, in a place that feels safe and welcoming. Every community deserves that.”
“The major impact of the grant is that we are able to survive without permanently closing due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Paula Guthat, co-founder, Cinema Detroit. “We are committed to keeping the movie-going experience accessible to as many people in our community as possible. However, unlike many other arts organizations, we do not have financial reserves.
I never would have known how to go about finding funding sources without the consulting advisement that came with the financial support from ARRAY Grants. We have almost no experience navigating the nonprofit world, but now Cinema Detroit has a chance to survive."
The grantees are determined by nomination only. An independent committee comprised of leaders from the philanthropic, entertainment and academic sectors draw on their expertise and networks to identify extraordinary candidates.
April 09, 2020
By Brian W. Carter
Contributing Writer
Bill Withers name is attached to music, and likewise, music is attached to him.
The list is never-ending of artists who have covered his songs including Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Al Jarreau, Nancy Wilson, Diana Ross, Johnny Mathis, Shirley Bassey, Barbra Streisand, Tom Jones, Maroon 5, Sting, Joe Cocker and Mick Jagger to name a few. You can add to that impressive roster artists who have sampled Withers music like Jay-Z, Akon, Kayne West, Tupac Shakur, Fatboy Slim, DMX and BlackStreet into hip-hop hits.
Wither’s music has been used in feature films such as “Jerry Maguire,” “Jackie Brown,” “The Bodyguard,” “Girls Trip,” “American Beauty,” “Austin Powers 2: The Spy Who Shagged Me,” “The Heat,” and “The Secret Life of Pets.”
His music has also been featured on television on shows such as “Scandal,” “Dancing with The Stars,” “American Idol,” “CSI,” “BULL,” “Snowfall,” “The Simpsons” and “The Prodigal Son.”
Withers passed away on Monday, March 30, from a heart condition, leaving the entertainment industry and the world mourning his loss. The lasting comfort—his indelible legacy to music and a song library that is synonymous with the memories of millions of his fans.
He was born in Slab Fork, West Virginia, the youngest of six children to father, William, a miner, and Mattie, a maid. He was raised in Beckley, which was a coal mining country and was 13-years-old when his father died. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the Navy and served for nine years. It was during this time when he began singing and writing songs.
Arriving in Los Angeles in 1967, Withers worked as an assembler for several different companies, including Douglas Aircraft Corporation. He self-financed his demos, which featured arranger and keyboardist, Ray Jackson of the Watts 103rd Street Band. Jackson introduced Withers to Forrest Hamilton, who then introduced Withers to Clarence Avant of Sussex Records, who tapped Booker T. Jones to produce Wither’s debut album.
“Just As I Am” included the Grammy-winning “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Grandma’s Hands.” His debut album was a success and he assembled the remaining members of the Watts 103rd Street Band for U.S. and international tours.
His second album, “Still Bill,” is held in high-esteem and delivered mainstay hits such as “Lean on Me” and “Use Me” with “Bill Withers Live at Carnegie” following soon after. After releasing “+’Justments” in 1974, Withers severed ties with Sussex and signed with Columbia. The following albums “Making Music, Making Friends” in 1975 brought more classics in “Hello Like Before” and “Make Love to Your Mind.” In 1976, Withers’ “Naked & Warm” produced the love song, “City of the Angels”; “Menagerie” in 1977 brought “Lovely Day” and in 1979, “Bout Love” released the single “Don’t It Make It Better,” all of which continued his top-charting success.
Withers received four Grammy nominations and won Best R&B Song for “Just the Two of Us” with Grover Washington, Jr. In 1984, he received another Grammy nomination for “In The Name Of Love” with Ralph MacDonald. That year also marked Withers’ final project for Columbia with “Watching You, Watching Me” and the R&B chart single, “Oh Yeah.”
In 1988, the remix of “Lovely Day (Sunshine Mix)” hit #4 on the British charts and Withers performed on the premier British chart show, “Top of the Pops.” Also, that year, he was presented with his third Grammy (and ninth nomination) for Club Nouveau’s interpretation of “Lean on Me.”
In 2014, Legacy Recordings’ box set of all nine of Withers albums, The Complete Sussex and Columbia Albums, released in late 2012, won a Grammy for Best Historical Recording. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005 and honored by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers in 2006 with the Society’s Rhythm and Soul Heritage Award, presented to ASCAP members who have had a major impact on the legacy of Rhythm and Soul music.
Withers’ additional honors include multiple Million-aires citations from Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI); a Soul Train Hall of Fame award; two NAACP Image awards, induction into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame, and a Clio award. In 2007, “Lean On Me” was enshrined in the Grammy Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the 2015 Class of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and in 2017, he received the prestigious International award of the Ivor Novello Awards in England.
The three-time Grammy Award winner’s family released the following statement, “We are devastated by the loss of our beloved, devoted husband and father. A solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world at large, with his poetry and music, he spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other,” the family statement read.
“As private a life as he lived close to intimate family and friends, his music forever belongs to the world. In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones.”
“I am saddened by the passing of my dear friend Bill Withers,” said Danny J. Bakewell, Sr. executive publisher & chairman of Bakewell Media.
“It is particularly ironic that Bill would pass away at this time from an ailment that has nothing to do with the Coronavirus. As the entire country, if not the world and all those on the front line (doctors, nurses, firefighters, police officers etc.) find comfort, motivation and inspiration in his song ‘Lean On Me’ and we all seek an end to this pandemic and can all enjoy a ‘Lovely Day’ again.”
Many celebrities, politicians and organizations took to social media to express their condolences and give thanks to Withers and his contributions, not only to music, but humanity.
“I am among the millions of fans around the world who are mourning the loss of a musical genius and Rhythm & Blues legend: the incomparable Bill Withers. Withers’ music is a part of the soundtrack of our lives. He chronicled the joy of deep and enduring love when he sang ‘Just the Two of Us,’ and voiced the pain of profound heartache when he sang ‘Ain’t No Sunshine.’ He lifted our spirits when he declared that today would be a ‘Lovely Day,’ and inspired strength and hope when he sang ‘Lean on Me.’
Bill Withers’ Grammy Award-winning, melodic masterpieces have withstood the test of time and endeared him to generations of fans – from the Silent Generation to Millennials and Gen Z. Any person who has an appreciation for authentic, soul-stirring music cherishes the work of Bill Withers. His induction to the Songwriters Hall of Fame (2005) and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2015) are a testament to his talent and creative genius. We cannot thank him enough for his contributions to music, entertainment, and American culture.”—Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43).
“What a poignant writer whose songs are more relevant than ever right now. May music always bring us together! Rest in paradise to the magnificent #BillWithers”—Alicia Keys
“It was 2011 and @courtneybvance took me to one of the best concerts in my life: #sade & #billwithers. I can still hear him singing his heart out on stage. Now he’ll sing in our hearts forever. God bless you & keep you. Your anthems will be sung loud and strong today and always.”—Angela Bassett
“Aw man, Bill Withers was really the greatest. Grandma’s Hands, Ain’t No Sunshine, Lean on Me, Use Me Up, Just The Two Of Us and obviously Lovely Day are some of the best songs of all time. My heart really hurts for him, it reminds me of playing records with at my grandma’s house.” —Chance The Rapper
“Rest in power, what a huge loss. Thank you for a catalogue we will lean on for generations to come. In the words of his family’s statement, ‘he spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other.’”—National Urban League
“#BillWithers thank you for all your contributions to society, everything you did on and off records to make everyday a #LovelyDay. #RestInPower” —NAACP
April 09, 2020
Aries
MAR 21 - APR 19
On Tuesday, a "make it or break it" Full Moon lands in your partnership sector and if you're a coupled Aries, this will make it impossible to ignore a necessary change in your current relationship dynamic. There is a theme of being unwilling to compromise your values or sell yourself short just to be in a relationship. If that rings true, then it's very likely that you've already got one foot out the door. And if you don't -- your partner is about to get a serious wake-up call! If you're single, expect an uncomfortable out-of-the-blue situation with one of your friends that will help you realize what you will and won't do for love.
Taurus
APR 20 - MAY 20
You might feel a little frenzied this week, Taurus! On Tuesday, Mars will square off with Uranus in your sign while a Full Moon in relationship-oriented Libra hits your health sector. This chaotic, unstable energy could prompt you to suddenly make a reckless move that you'll later regret. This can happen in all sorts of ways, but you'll want to be careful that whatever you do won't hurt your reputation. If you've been nursing a broken heart, then it's possible you'll realize it's time to make a radical change to let go of the pain. No one is worth getting yourself sick over! You've been in this position for far too long ... a change is needed.
Gemini
MAY 21 - JUN 20
It's ALL about the heart this week, Gemini! On Tuesday, a Full Moon in your romance sector demands attention and change in your love life. If you're single, it's time for you to get radically honest about what you know you need and deserve in love. A sudden realization that you don't need to compromise or hide parts of yourself in order to gain attention or appreciation could be a total game-changer -- good for you! If you're in a relationship, you'll feel fulfilled and in love or you'll realize exactly what's preventing your heart from soaring in this current romantic connection.
Cancer
JUN 21 - JUL 22
You might have a sudden opportunity this week to become closer to a casual acquaintance or even someone you are introduced to through friends. Even if the chemistry is strong, it looks like this will be one of those situations you'll end up regretting the next day. Sometimes it's better not to allow yourself to lose control, and this is one of those moments, Cancer! In other news, your family seems to have strong opinions about your love life. Whether you're single or attached, a Full Moon in your domestic sector will bring their feelings about your current scenario out in the open. Yikes!
Leo
JUL 23 - AUG 22
If you're single, it's time to declare into the universe exactly what you want in a relationship. Tuesday's Full Moon in Libra will land in your message sector, giving you both the emotional awareness AND the ability to elucidate all those valuable realizations. Write a list of your relationship "must-haves" along with a checklist of what you have to offer to your future partner in return. Set those intentions during a Full Moon ceremony -- it can be so powerful! In a relationship? Out of nowhere, your partner might become unhinged and you may be concerned that their temper tantrum will hurt your reputation. You won't be pleased, Leo!
Virgo
AUG 23 - SEP 22
Speaking up about financial matters is a key theme for you and your partner. It looks like you're going to want your mate to contribute more to shared expenses, especially if there is a change in your income. Even if you're doing well financially, it looks like the inequality between who gives what in the relationship is rubbing you the wrong way. It's time to address it. Single? You might want to take a moment to remember that just because you're not with someone, it doesn't mean you're not whole on your own. In fact, you've got your act together and anyone would be blessed to have you. Do not allow your relationship status to define your self-worth -- not ever!
Libra
SEP 23 - OCT 22
You're a ball of feelings this week, Libra! A Full Moon in your sign on Tuesday will have you feeling emotionally raw about your current love life scenario, regardless of where you swing on the relationship status pendulum. It looks like you'll throw a tantrum if you're dating someone or have a crush that isn't working out the way you want it to. On the same day as the Full Moon, Mars in your 5th House of Romance squares off with Uranus in your 8th House of Intimacy. The gloves are coming off, Libra -- you're about to give someone a piece of your mind!
Scorpio
OCT 23 - NOV 21
You and your partner will not exactly be engaged in romantic bliss this week. It looks like they are about to become very angry over a domestic matter. He or she just isn't having it -- whatever "it" is! Although the details might be unique for everyone, a common theme will be that your mate feels like he or she needs to make a radical move because they feel stifled. Who or what is taking all the joy out of your home, Scorpio? This needs to be addressed! If you're single, it looks like all your fears and insecurities will be illuminated during Tuesday's Full Moon concerning relationships. It's a great time for therapy -- a breakthrough is possible!
Sagittarius
NOV 22 - DEC 21
You'll have no trouble striking up a conversation with someone you're attracted to after Saturday when Mercury rushes into your romance sector. Making the first move will be easy for you whether it be initiating that first text, phone call, or swipe on your favorite dating app. You'll also be very clear about your dating expectations and desires with anyone new you meet, so there shouldn't be any mixed messages. Another possibility this week is that a friend might keep attempting to spark a romantic connection where you only see friendship. While you don't want to hurt this friend, it looks like someone will still be disappointed.
Capricorn
DEC 22 - JAN 19
Your passions might get the best of you this week! Uranus is moving along in your romance sector, bringing your love life unexpected twists and turns in every way possible. You can't predict what will happen next or who you'll meet with Uranus wedged in this part of your chart, so your best course of action is to buckle up and enjoy the ride. However, that ride might be extra bumpy on Tuesday as Mars and Uranus square off. Whether you're single or attached, you might make an impulsive move towards someone you know you shouldn't be with. Take a step back, Capricorn! Don't do something you know you'll end up regretting.
Aquarius
JAN 20 - FEB 18
If you're single, it's very possible that you'll suddenly receive a call from one of your siblings on Saturday to tell you that there is someone they think would be perfect to set you up on a date with! Since you're typically open to anything, go ahead and say yes to this offer. It looks like you and this person will have an immediate mental connection and so much to talk about! Isn't it nice when there are no awkward silences when you're talking to someone for the first time? Yes, that's sure to be your experience now. Enjoy!
Pisces
FEB 19 - MAR 20
On Tuesday, a Full Moon in your 8th House of Intimacy and Shared Resources could rock the boat between you and your mate. It's possible that a secret will be revealed that shatters your trust or makes you second guess how much trust you have given to the person you're with. Although this may feel unsettling, try to confront it together head-on -- it's salvageable! If you're single, then you might be more focused on a fear of opening yourself up to someone. The main reason why you may be avoiding intimacy is because you expect it will result in grief. If you keep expecting loss, no one can break down the barriers you've built against love!