Regular Discussion on Blog Talk Radio: Novels By Don Durant - "No Place Like Home", "The Crossroads Mystique, My Sister, My Friend", & Non-Fiction "CRY BEFORE SUNRISE", THE GROWTH CURVE, AND THE FLESH IS WEAK
Male
63 years old
Long Island, New York
United States
AS AN INDEPENDENT ENTREPRENEUR, AND A FORMER SENIOR ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE FOR MAJOR MEDIA, I LOOK FORWARD TO EXPLORING THE EASE OF WRITING, PRODUCING, PUBLISHING, AND DISTRIBUTING WORKS ON DEMAND. As a former business owner, in Nassau County, New York for many years, I have been able to attain a measure of confidence and respectability from my neighbors, friends and fellow business owners. This has garnered a following of concerned, and interested readers of my novels and multiple regular newspaper and magazine articles, (submitted over the past five years) appearing in Standup Ministry, Long Island Community Journal newspapers, Newsday, The Rockaway Wave, Women In Entertainment, The Point of View, and Long Island Woman. I recently completed my ninth novel, and it is a story expressing a viewpoint on women securing the power in male female relationships, with the result of causing a man of her interest to desire her. "THE FLESH IS WEAK" is centered around love and the conflicts surrounding it. A Novel showing clear examples of women recapturing the equality in healthy relationships. It identifies steps a woman must take in creating the love interest, curiosity, and desire on the part of a partner in a long-term relationship.
Music
My Taste in Music, includes Hip Hop, based on a family love of this genre of music. Quiet listening music is my preference, because the words move me. I play the piano, and love music with piano as the primary backing. Yolanda Adams, is the best Female Gospel singer in my view, and Gladys Knight is the best female R&B artist. Melinda Doolittle of the 2007 American Idol broadcast, is a future Gladys. Let us not forget Keisha Cole,and the renewed Mary J. Blige. Alicia , my Alicia, the Queen of them all, except for Jill Scott, my love interest.
Movies
I have been known to go to any type of movie. I seldom go, but when I do, it can be almost anything. I am engrossed by the acting and technical aspects, since I am a theater director by training. I view movies with a critical eye, and then consider the acting and story after the fact.
Tyler Perry is a genius, who can bring you to wild uproarous laughter, or to tears. I love him, and his success.
Television
I seek out Reality Television. The Dance Programs capture my attention. Comedy shows run a close second, News Format on CNN, MSNBC, and any political talk show, captivates my attention. I never glance at the old movies, and Drawn out dramas. Television is a great pasttime, but C-Span is good enough for me. Although if I allow myself, I will find myself clicking on Keisha Cole.
Books
Love Don't Live Here, by Therone Shellman, and anything by Frederick Cooper, or Zane. Looking For A Lover, by Zaria, To Protect and Serve, No Place Like Home, The Crossroads Mystique-My sister My friend and Amalgam. These are all books I have written. Most of my time is spent reading and re-reading work I have completed or that I am working on.
Heroes
Mr. Earl G. Graves is another Hero. I was favored to work for him at the early stage of my advertising sales career at the start up of Black Enterprise Magazine. His lessons taught, and examples shown, helped me to know that there were no barriers I could not overcome. I thank him for a good life. As a Heroin I also view my late wife Barbara, a force to be reckoned with. A strong, determined, quiet, and spiritual person, who cared for me in many ways more than I cared for myself. I want to be that way for someone. She was one of the most genuine individuals I have ever met. You could trust her, in any circumstance. She would not lie, and even when it was detrimental to her interests, she would stand for the truth. My latest book is not only dedicated to her memory, but in many ways is about her fruitful life well lived. And then to Mr. Phil Andrews, everyone's friend, a young man with old ideas, and a fresh perspective. His life is devoted to helping others and it is no game. Everyone who knows him, knows just how freely his knowledge is shared, with one and all. Many recognitions, and honors have followed this young man's path, but not nearly enough. Every mother wants this young man for her daughter. Hard to find. My Hero Phil.
don says: - The 80's went and boy were we surprised,Women PAID THE TIP,and burned bras right before our eyes...It was a change taking place..Listen in Don Durant view more
About me: DON IS AN EXPERIENCED SALES PROFESSIONAL, WITH A LONG TRACK RECORD SELING ADVERTISING IN MAJOR MEDIA. An experienced writer of newspaper and magazine articles focused on diverse subject matter: Romance, Relationships, Women empowered, Life, Living and Surviving. These subjects discussed regularly on Blog Talk Radio - Living , Caring, Learning and Sharing with Don Durant
"With one non-fiction book to my credit, and several novels, I am determined to set forth those things truthfully, as I see them. Each person we encounter represents a story which is being lived and waiting to be told. A highly regarded public speaker, at Luncheons, book club meetings, organization,and church gatherings. Let him hear what you have to say and then read it for yourself. An author of seven Off-Broadway plays. The plays, run the gamut from Gospel, and Comedy, to Drama, and Musical. "I was pleased to Direct a play, SPEAK OF THE DEVIL, by Ms. Elaine Petrie, with the Reknowned Gospel Superstar, DONNIE McCLURKIN, as Musical Director. I also was favored to direct two plays THE ERUDITE, and ANOTHER ONE GONE, written by Pastor SPURGEON CRAYTON, recently retired from the Mt Ollie Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York. And IT'S SO NICE TO BE CIVILIZED, by Author, and Soap Opera Star, Ms. MICKI GRANT, at John Jay College, in New York. These plays ran in off-Broadway theaters, to rave reviews. Several of my original works were presented at the Black Spectrum Theater in Queens, New York, and in Off-Broadway venues such as, The Carter, The Lambs, The Westside Arts Theater, The Quaique Theater, and other popular NYC Off-Broadway locations. Writing a book, turned into a labor of love, winding up with eight books, and very positive response from the readers. I am a regular columnist for The Nationally Syndicated StandUp Ministry Newspaper, Mr. Tim Butler is publisher, and also a monthly contributor to Chicago based, W.IN.E (Women In Entertainment Magazine), Ms. Sheila Henley is Founder and CEO. As such I try to write stories of interest to a targeted audience. I acted as Long Island Producer/Coordinator of The Hal Jackson Talented Teens Pageant for several years, resulting in the developing of young talent, and future stars. Jada Pinkett was a contestant in the Hal Jackson Talented Teens Competition.
CONTACT: dondurant2@aol.com FOR INFORMATION
blogtalkradio.com/don-durant
I welcome public speaking engagements,especially at book fairs, and church functions.
I was keynote speaker at the recent Harlem Book Fair on Long Island, and The Queens Book fair, as well as The Know Book Store, and Jazz Club in Durham, NC, and The Bestseller Book Store in Hempstead, Long Island. All of my Published books are available at dondurant2@aol.com, barnes&noble.com, and amazon.com.
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Who I'd like to meet: Writers, Readers, Book Clubs, Family Reunion Planners, and the very important Commercial Bookstore Owners and operators. I am obsessed with the writing craft covering a full range of genres. I would sit for hours and discuss the art of writing,and the skills of reading and the ease of publishing with any interested parties, holding a similar interest. I am concerned about the issues of today, and frequently write Blogs and articles on these subjects. I am interested in meeting with discussion groups on political, social, Criminal Justice, religious or commercial interests. I seek networking opportunities with business geared individuals, with a mind toward helping to inform the curious readers of quality media.
I speak at Book Club meetings, Schools Career Day, or graduation, Church functions and Luncheons, with a message geared to the audience, or centered around my books. Interested in reaching readers with a unique intellectual curiosity, as well as other authors seeking a means to get their work shown, or published.
If you know her - you love her. We need more like her.
Body: In the Hempstead Community of Long Island is a woman of note. Ms. Dorothy Goosby is a Town Councilperson, who is extremely energetic and vibrant. It is not often that one takes the time to commend a person for good deeds, or for services rendered. I would be remiss if i fail torespond to just such an opportunity right now. I have long recognized the work and commitment of Dorothy Goosby. Her hands have touched and her fingerprints are on much of the positive benefits we now enjoy right here in Nassau County.
She, along with a group of concerned residents fought for and achieved the establishment of a Board of Legislators. To accomplish the goals and aims of the citizenry. For this she will likewise be honored and remembered as the first woman of color elected to the Town of Hempstead Board.
Ida B. Wells, Fannie Lou Hamer, Shirley Chisholm, to name a few are trailblazing women who fought in their local communities to make a change that beneficially impacted communities nationwide.
It was more than thirty years ago that she stood and fought for effective schools in Hempstead Village, while her child attended and after. She spent many long hours volunteering time to ensure that all of the children would graduate with a quality education. It worked at teh time, because my own children benefitted from her sacrifices.
She is thoughtful, driven, concerned, and available. call on her for a service, and if at all possible, she will be there.
No long vacations, time off, or absentee service from Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby. She remains on a mission, and teh people recognize it.
Good evening my friend, When you have time, Please check out my new song "Love Slave". Below is my comment to my friend Willie whom this song relates too in my opinion. I might be wrong, But I just thinK this man cares alote about his special lady. "I hope you like it, I do!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ok, Willie my brother,
Heres the song "Love Slave".
It a Soulful but sexy song about two people who really care for one another. I'm sure thats the way you feel about your special lady. It is my hope that you as well as the others find this song filled with positive emotions directed towards that one person in your life that hold the key to your heart. Enjoy!
The truth of the matter is
There is nothing more beautiful
Than a black man
Whether five-two or six-seven,
Yellow fabulous or chocolate heaven
There is nothing more beautiful
Than a black man
Long and lean With deep brown eyes Wavy hair or dreds With strong thick thighs There is nothing more beautiful Than a black man
Bald head with goatee Cornrows or a fade A little thick, a little thin Oh the choices to be made There is nothing more beautiful Than a black man
Scholarly or not Wall Street or hip hop I'll sing your praises To the mountain top Head of the home Provider and love Obedient son and loving brother There's nothing more beautiful Than a black man
A mighty provider you've proven to be Sacrificing your life to keep me free Working for crumbs When the table is bare Praising the Lord Leading the family in prayer There is nothing more beautiful Than a black man
Holding my hand When fear emerges Remaining faithful, suppressing your urges Proving your strength By turning the other cheek Having high hopes When the situation is bleak There is nothing more beautiful Than a black man
Treating me like the queen I was born to be Never disrespecting, dishonoring, or disgracing me Giving me credit when it is due Oh, black man, how I honor you
You can sit and watch your life go by...or stand and watch
: I only learned recently that you can literally sit and watch your life pass by. Imagine how long a day it is in Iraq. Sitting in a small room watching through a peephole, waiting for insurgents to show. How long is that day? Unable to speak, unable to take a break, not even able to prepare a meal. In a labor room, how long is it as you wait for labor pains to increase? How many waiting hours pass until it is time? How long is a day in a car dealership, or a mattress store, while waiting for an interested prospect? You sit, you watch, you hum a tune. You get up and walk to exercise tightening joints. You touch each car, and each bed, for the 75th time that day, picking up lint, and anything else to make the day go by. You learn to preen your ear to every sound in the building. You become familiar with every crack and crevice in the walls and ceilings. The broken ceiling tile once again captures your attention. Shooting rubber bands with your finger tip lost it's alure many days ago. Light jogging, and fast walking around the showroom, no longer passes for ecercise. A customer enters, you fail in your attempts to appear nonchalant -you need someone to talk to. To keep you from watching your life pass by. Thank you for coming in... How are your children? When did you first notice this store? (Please don't leave me here alone...?)
There comes a time to walk away, and a time to run away.
Quite often we are called upon to express our interest and opinions in things and even other people. In our attempts to be thought provoking, we sometimes look outside the box and never pondder those things staring us in the face. Thoughts as wide ranging as: Should the Lone Ranger change his horse for a morotcycle? or Should two people be together as a couple if one clearly doesn't want to? Our heartstrings pulsate when we look at these ponderables. In some, the answers come quickly, in others where the heart is involved, the answers are not so clear. After all the nights of loving you, and days thinking about you; it is most difficult to imagine life without you being part of it. It often seems more ideal to walk alone - but who can do that, in a world where people walk together. Al Green, Isaac Hayes, and of course, Barry White each told us we need to be together. Crying in teh middle of the night requires consolation. Walking through the park requires someone else appreciating the moment - as we watch others appreciating each other. Two people: "Oughta stay together, loving each other, whether times are good, or bad, happy or sad." There is however, a time to breakup. Confusion, arguements, and distrust is the time to walk away.
BY DON DURANT - The 80's came and went and boy were we surprised, Women PAID THE TIP,and burned bras right before our eyes. The men, they scratched their heads, not knowing right from wrong... Wondering whether to stand and applaud or look up and whistle a song. Some women even changed their names, from Goodman, Freeman, and Herman, It took hold in every language, French, English and German. Men didn't even have a clue - they expected it to pass, Opening doors, pulling out chairs, it seemed had seen it's last. But it really was much bigger than that, women had deep seeds to sow, They wanted to change society at large, to help the feminist move to grow. They marched, they yelled, you could hear them shout and scream, Someone was bound to pay attention, or this thing would surely get mean. Men held their wives in check, controlling what they could, But wives had gone back to work, and the message there is what stood. He said: "They're Crazy!" She said: "They're Not!, She said: "They're standing for change." He said: "Not A Shot!" The arguement ranged far and wide, They both agreed to take opposite sides. No one dug heels in deep, agreeing to disagree, Until one day the boss at work, cut the staff from four to THREE. He was let go, and three women allowed to stay The boss, though male, had tendencies that showed he was gay. Oh yes - change had come though unexpected, His opinions, his life, his job, his wife, had suddenly seemed rejected. But fast forward to 2009 - we'll leave the past behind, On the Blog talk discussion a few days ago a strange sensation came to mind. A beautifful Scholar was the host of the show, unafraid to make her opinions known, Her invited guest - a challenging sort, made her squirm and moan. They covered the gamut of relationships, spanning same sex, young and old, but when they spoke
Writing from the heart waiting for the hook - a trial run
Writing is a lonely business. Like jogging, you must persuade yourself to begin; and after you start, it's like an addiction. A day of running - missed by a jogger is quite like a heroin addict without his fix. Your muscles tighten, your mind is drawn, and your concentration remains on the number of miles and meters you could have conquered that day. A writer sits staring at a blank page, trying to drum up unique words and thoughts of interest to unknown readers. The words begin to flow, and no longer are you concerned about that reader; you begin to write selfishly to yourself. Criticism of a writer cuts deeply, simply because his self imposed chore was needed to reach inside himself to capture the essence of who he is and who he dreamed himself to be. Many readers try to look inside stories, to find the soul of the writer. That doesn't sound fair or realistic. A writer, like a jogger, puts forth his effort for personal satisfaction, and to satisfy a crying need struggling to surface. The meadow you crossed, that new crossroad you ventured onto, and the leafy glade you stole a few moments of rest. That short story, sonnet, or poem, was a mere respite to recharge your energies. Necessary to simply steal a moment to share brief inner thoughts with yourself. Sure you want to bring concerned readers into the mix, but only those who love and appreciate what you do, and what it took to get there. A Book Reviewer, treads dangerous ground. How can they review and critique what comes from your heart. How will they know the number of miles run or words wasted to bring the message to the page. Read what I write with an open heart, but most important, an open mind. A mind to receive fresh ideas, new concepts, and re-warmed old. Not perfection, I don't possess that - only a continuous trial run.
Tune into Blog Talk Radio - Today at 6 pm est More about writing with feeling and movemen
The King Of Pop Is Gone - Never will be forgotten - He touched our lives and our souls WRITTEN BY DON DURANT - READ AND ENJOY
We cried, we laughed...we cried again, Once we realized we had lost a friend. Stunned stars and mourners from cross the world Stars across the entertainment universe saw his flag unfurl... Elizabeth, Steven and Jamie fox too, Stood in awe at the news not knowing what to say or do. Now the unfurling of an incomparable new flag, shows the world would care Surpassing the flag of Presley, Chuck Berry, and Fred Astaire. You can't say enough about his contribution to music Performers and entertainers will forever continue to use it. His talent, wonderment and mystery, Will only add to his well deserved place in history. We loved him: Wacko Jackson, Face masks, nevber came between us, Inspite of it all, Thriller, Moonwalk, all of his work spelled Genius. He dedicated his life to me, writing, dancing, and performing,
His fame spanned generations cross the globe, as his fans stand in mourning.
From Apple to Japan twelve twenty two, 6/25 will stand
The call came in on 9-1-1 EMS was on the run.
A 50 year old male - not breathing at all
Who could have made such a call?
Significant yes - but much too late
The Los Angeles EMS rushed through the gate
The man was gone, still they tried to revive
To do all they could just to keep him alive
A man raised his coat to shield him from sight
In Cardiac Arrest on a gurney in the midst of his plight.
Hello my friend, Life can be strange sometimes...you never know whats going to happen next. Last night I had been searching for clips to help assist Monee in her Eureker production video of my new song "Detroit". We ran across several video clips that showed him dancing on stage. Those video clips were excellent , and maybe one just might be used in monee's next video. Anyway, when I was told by her about his condition, I was shocked........................very!. When things such as this happens to someone as famous as that...the mind begins to reflect very deeply in most people...at least mine did. Lets look at this situation deeply. When I think of Michael,
I see an indiviual who had the opportunity of a lifetime, but opportunities don't come without a price. Just imagine yourself at a very young age being driven to succeed at something you're good at and not ever being able to develope the skills necessary to become a level headed adult with few issuses regarding "Self".... Being placed in the hands of those who have no regard for your wellbeing other than to see that your talent makes money for you as well as everyone else who makes a living off your talent.
In most cases those indiviuals ( Guardians ) are not developed themself...they are only diven by money. Because of this, A young person will eather be left unsupervised or exposed to things that maybe harmful to their development as an adult. In the real world, people only gravitate toward winners. When their up, the world says they love them, and when their down...The world eather forgets them or tare them down ( to make money )....Their private life that is. In other words..."Nobody want you when you're down and out". Imagine, having hundred of people waiting on you 24 hours a day, knowing or not knowing that not one of them cares anything about you...................not really. Their just there for that all mighty dollor. I guess when one developes to the degree that they can perceive this fact of life. They will turn to other things to fill the emptyness. What causes the emptynes in my view?. "Knowing that success money, fame, power, will never be able to buy "Love" or "True friendship".
Micheal Jackson had problems just like all of us.
However, In my view Micheal jacksons lyrics expressed everything he wanted his life to be and was, I'm truly saddened by all of this. Have a great day and watch what the powers that "Be" do...."In order to make money off of this man...........Good and bad". The world doesn't Love nobody!............."Just keeping it real!" Have a peaceful weekend my friend.
What I wanted was a relationship, he laughed in my face and said gurl you on a trip. I told him that he laughed like what I said was a quip He said iit ain't no quip - all he could bring was a friendship. I said if that's all you got, why should I waste my time? He said, You know what I got, and you like it, that ain't no crime. After that, I cried to myself the rest of the day. I don't know what he did to pass the time away. He was always busy - no time for a friend The sex was banging - from beginning to end. I felt ashamed, most of the time; felt slighted and abused. Laying next to him in a dark room...no words, not a sound made me feel used. When we talked, it was always his way, not mine, But laying in the silent room, gave me time to think and prime. I primed the value of being in his place, and also how fast to run and hurdles to jump to win this relationship race. I primed with questions, the answers I knew I wouldn't get Until I left this space to clear my head - so my priming questions, i could vet. I told him this, he told me that, How much truth was hard to tell, The real truth never came out, during an argument he would start to yell. He would tell truths I never knew were real Amazing what vetting, priming and anger can cause you to reveal. So the bottom line is still to be told, Sex is Bronze, Relationships are silver,and friendships are gold. No matter what he says, or her either in fact, What is less important is the sex act Why do they call it an act, after all, Relationships, and friendships last long after the fall. Mom & Dad, Brother and Sis, could never be apart without being missed, They long for conversation covering so many things, The lasting communication that only a relationship brings. So no matter what he says, or she says, just stay on point When you have a lasting friendship, and a relationship, Then you
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO ALL THE DADDY'S OUT THERE AND TO ALL THE MOTHER'S WHO HELPED US TO BE THAT. AND TO ALL THE CHILDREN WHO MADE US PROUD TO BE THAT. THANK YOU FOR THIS DAY!!!
AND TO MY CHILDREN.... DARROL, DANNIE, PRINCE, KIM, NOZZIE, AND OF COURSE PARIS!! THANK YOU.
Saturday at 6 pm est Glenda Scott on Blog Talk Radio - set up your own business and make a profit even in a down economy. Fire your boss and take the reins of your own life. Can you do it? Listen in as Glenda gives the tips and How To's right on Living, Caring, Learning and Sharing with Don Durant. blogtalkradio.com/don-durant CALL IN AND jOIN IN 718-305-6322
Arlene McClaren - Special Blog Talk Guest Monday 11 am est. Tune In ARLENE McCLAREN FROM THE ARLENE McCLAREN RADIO SHOW WILL BE OUR SPECIAL GUEST MONDAY AT 11:00 AM ON BLOG TALK -WITH DON DURANT (LIVING, CARING, LEARNING AND SHARING) HER NEW BOOK IS AVAILABLE AND IS WELL WORTH PICKING IT UP. 10 SECRETS OF NETWORKING TUNE IN TO HEAR HER LIVE, AND IN LIVING COLOR. ARLENE IS ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING RADIO PERSONALITIES YOU CAN EXPERIENCE ON THE AIR. TAKE A FEW MINUTES AND JOIN US AS WE EXPLORE HER EXCITING PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. blogtalkradio.com/don-durant Monday, June 22, 2009 718-305-6322
Author, Sirius/XM radio host and political commentator Charles D. Ellison signs copies of his critically-acclaimed political thriller TANTRUM at the following tour dates/locations in June:
6.19.09 @ 12PM - 3PM Borders Express, The Shops at Liberty Place 1625 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
6.19.09 @ 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM Barnes & Noble (Reading/Q & A Discussion) 396 Sixth Avenue, New York, NY
6.20.09 @ 11AM - 7PM Harlem Book Fair 2009 1 Library Plaza, New Rochelle, NY
This Special Broadcast with Joey Pinkney is a must to listen to. Five Questions, in Five Minutes with Joey Pinkney, in his interviewing authors, but today it is all about Joey. Check out what he has to say about how he feels about books, and suggestions for new writers.
Tune in to Blog Talk Radio 6 pm est - Listen to Joey Pinkney on the Hot Seat. Behind the scenes at Joey Reviews and hear his thoughts on writers, books, and the craft. Very exciting guest, be there and join in the discussion. 6 pm est blogtalkradio.com/don-durant 718-305-6322 Lend us your ears and your voice.
