Mississippi-based Book Club Teams Up with Local Subway Stores to Promote Reading

Media Personality, Conversations Book Club President and Mississippi native Cyrus Webb is excited to announce that he has partnered with two local Subway Restaurants in his hometown of Brandon, MS to not just encourage reading but reward those who are taking out the time during the summer to enjoy some great books.

Webb, who is also a Top 500 Amazon reviewer, is working with Subway Restaurant store owner Ramesh Gajjar during the months of June, July and August to share the gift of books and give away some great prizes along the way.  “I wanted to encourage Rankin County residents to not just think about summer reading for the kids but take advantage of the gift of books at any age,” says Webb, 40. He reached out to Gajjar and the two agreed on this Summer Reading Challenge.

Beginning June 1st those who stop by Subway Restaurants in Brandon (either at the Crossgates location at 112 Service Dr. or at 220 E Gov. St. Downtown next to Ramey’s) will have the opportunity to fill out the Conversations Summer Reading Challenge card with 10 books that they plan on reading or are reading, along with the author of the book. The cards are then entered into a weekly drawing. Beginning Friday June 10th and continuing each Friday until August 26th, Webb will be giving away prizes that he has gotten through companies on Amazon ranging from drones, cameras,toys, watches, Bluetooth speakers, headphones and more. Each location will have it’s own winner, which means there will be two winners each week!

The first week’s drawing (Fri. June 10th) will be for a mini drone (at the Crossgates location)  and a Smart Watch (at the Downtown Brandon location). You do not have to make a purchase to enter the drawing, only complete the Conversations Summer Reading Challenge card and drop off at the participating store.

Webb hopes that this is something that will catch on not just across the state of Mississippi but the country. “Reading is something we can all promote more,” he says. I am glad that I am able to do my part, and I want to work with others who would like to do the same.”

Interested in partnering with Webb to bring the Conversations Summer Reading Challenge to your establishment or organization? Contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit Webb on his website at www.cyruswebb.com.

Why I Traveled from Mississippi to New York to Meet Jackie Collins

20 years.

Before 2015 that is how long it had been before I walked the streets of New York. I was 19 years old the last time I was there, and though my intentions were always to come back for a visit or to catch a show, it never happened. That is until June 2015.

So what brought me back to the Big City all the way from Mississippi? Two words: Jackie Collins.

I have been a fan of her books for over 25 years, and have had the honor of interviewing her now 4 times on my radio show Conversations LIVE as well as feature her in the pages of Conversations Magazine. We have chatted, laughed together and stayed connected---but never met. So when I was offered the opportunity to not just discuss her new book THE SANTANGELOS with her over lunch but have some one-on-one time, there was NO WAY I could resist.

On Wednesday, June 17, 2015---just one day after her new book released---I found myself at the Hotel Plaza Athenee in New York at an event hosted by Socially Speaking and Get Red PR with other fans/bloggers/journalists sitting at the table with the international bestselling author.

She was everything you would have hoped she would be: gracious, confident and all too ready to discuss her new book and to listen to us as well.

It was intriguing to hear her discuss the characters she has created, the parallels to pop culture today and even elaborate on her love of creating strong female voices in her books.

I could not have asked for a better experience, especially when it came to getting my book signed and reading her inscription...

Not only has Jackie Collins created a timeless character in Lucky Santangelo but she, herself, is timeless as she shows no signs of slowing down, even discussing with us her autobiography that is now in the works.

The time with Ms. Collins was well worth the trip, and I would happily do it again.

Listen to my most recent interview with Jackie Collins on #ConversationsLIVE radio show here: www.spreaker.com/user/cyruswebbpresents/jackie-collins-on-conversationslive 

Kimberly Sims' KS Media Group Proves that Dreams Can Come True

When Kimberly Sims couldn't find the opportunities she wanted to pursue her goal and dream of modeling she did what any brave individual would do: she created her own opportunity.

Now the 35 year old single mother of Gulfport, Mississippi has started KS Media Group, a place where others can have their goals and dreams encouraged and nurtured as well as supported.

"We have to stop allowing others to tell us how far our present situation can take us," says Sims. "I know that I am talented. I trust in my abilities. Now it's up to me to share that with the world, and I want to help others do the same thing."

The mission of KS Media Group is to provide an outlet for individuals who are up-and-coming in the entertainment industry (i.e. modeling, acting, dancing, singing) so they have a platform to showcase and promote their talent as well as network with other like-minded visionaries.

"I've been wanting to do this for years," Sims explains, "but I was hesitating...letting doubt and fear stop me. Then I was encouraged by Stanley Clark of Holmes County to just go for it. With him agreeing to join me as a Consultant and Manager I began to take the first steps and do the work to make my dreams come true."

Stanley Clark of Real Deal Entertainment has been pursuing his own passion for music for quite some time and has seen his hard work pay off. His artist Ziggy of Yazoo City, Mississippi is signed to AMS Entertainment and has shared the stage with some of the biggest artists in the industry. Clark says he could see Sims' passion and wanted to help in any way that he could.

"It feels great to know that I inspired Kimberly to do what she loves," he says. "That is what we all have to do. If you don't see doors opening for you then create the opening and be brave enough to walk through it."

Stay connected with the happenings of KS Media Group at www.facebook.com/ksmediagroup. You can contact Kimberly at kimberlysims55@gmail.com and Stanley at sclarkpickens@gmail.com or 1.662.528.0059.

Cyrus Webb Announces New Programs, New Books and more

It's been a busy 2015 for Mississippi native Cyrus Webb.

The 39 year old began the year still celebrating the publication of his inspirational book WORDS I CHOOSE TO LIVE BY, but in February of this year he added a new title to his resume: children's book author!

Joining forces with author Herschel Dixon of Kentucky, Webb co-wrote and published the book A.J. AND THE TALENT SHOW, a book that not just encourages reading but the importance of being yourself. Within weeks the book became a Top 100 Bestseller on Amazon.com! (Webb seen here sharing the message of A.J. with a Pre-K class at John Hopkins Elementary in Jackson, MS)

In March Webb co-wrote two additional children's books with Mississippi authors Stanley Clark (STANDRIA'S BIG DREAM) and Stephanie Mitchell (BELLA'S DANCING LESSON). He also wrote AUBREY'S WORLD. Each of the books share themes of believing in yourself and not allowing challenges to stop you when it comes to pursuing your goals and dreams.

All the titles are available for purchasing on Amazon.

This year Webb also joined forces with Co Star Urban Broadcasting in Little Rock, AR, becoming the voice of their news program. Each weekday he is heard in over 2 dozen cities across the country sharing the news of the day and including entertainment tidbits from his radio show Conversations LIVE. Because of the popularity of the program Webb began hosting Conversations Daily News live weekdays at 7a.m. et/6a.m. ct bringing "the news you need, the conversations you want and the positivity you can't get enough of." The show is in its third week and has already garnered an international following.

You can continue to catch Conversations LIVE radio show each week at www.conversationsliveradio.com.

During the month of April Webb will be touring with his co-authors, sharing the messages of their books and encouraging others to pursue their goals and dreams. For updates visit www.cyruswebbpresents.com. Contact Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Cyrus Webb returns to radio in Mississippi on Yazoo City's 94.1 FM WYAD

After an 8 year absence from the radio waves in his home state, Mississippi native Cyrus Webb will make his return weeknights beginning Monday January 5th on Yazoo City's 94.1 FM WYAD.

"I'm excited to be bringing my show to Yazoo City and back to my home state of Mississippi," says Webb, 39. Conversations LIVE was birthed on the airwaves of WMPR 90.1 FM in July 2003. Since then it has been picked up and carried by other radio stations and online, becoming a hit on Blogtalkradio where it has over 1 million listeners.

During the first week back on the air in Mississippi Webb will share interviews with celebrities like Devon Franklin, Erica Campbell, Dottie Peoples, Cheryl Pepsii Riley, Dionne Warwick and more. Throughout the course of the month he will be bringing not just his inspirational celebrity guests to 94.1 FM but his tips on health, family and fitness as well. Stay connected with the radio station on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wyad941fm.

To contact Cyrus Webb email him at cawebb4@juno.com or call 601.896.5616. You can also find a full roster of his guests at www.conversationsliveradio.com.

(Sat. Jan. 10, 2015) Authors Cyrus Webb and Glenda L. Hunter sign books in Pearl, MS

Join Mississippi authors Cyrus Webb and Glenda L. Hunter in their first book-signing of the New Year.

It will be Saturday, January 10, 2015 from 1-3p.m. at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS). Webb will be signing his inspirational book WORDS I CHOOSE TO LIVE BY and Hunter will have her children's book IT FINALLY HAPPENED and adult title AN UNSPEAKABLE SECRET and more.

Admission is free, however, books will be available for purchasing. Hunter lives in Clinton, MS and Webb resides in Rankin County.

For more information about the event contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.cyruswebbpresents.com.

Montana Esco: Learning to Live Each Day As A Thank You

by Cyrus Webb

Looking at him at face value there is no earthly reason why Montana Esco should be alive.*

In the past two years the 25 year old Mississippi native has endured situations that would have been the end of many, but the fact that he is still here is a testament that his existence has a meaning we can all learn from.

I was first introduced to Esco through social media, and over the past couple of years I have seen him use his challenges in life to inspire others and show them what is possible. He's quick to tell you that he's not perfect, but he is work in progress that has a lot to share.

Esco became a father at 16, something that was a wake up for him in many ways. "It slowed me down for sure," he says. "I was living the life of a grown-up at 16." Instead of running from it, though, he told me it taught him a lesson. "Becoming a father so young gave me a sense of responsibility," he says. Now the father of 5 children, Esco says he wants his children to know that he learned from his mistakes and never gave up---and neither should they.

Kicked out of Madison Central in Madison, MS just months before graduating, Esco says that where he is from has a great deal to do with the person he has become. "80% of the people I grew up with are either dead or in jail," he told me. "Seeing my peers made me want to do things different." That proved to be easier said than done.

Like all of us, Esco was not always so open to listening to his conscience and the voice of God that his mother had told him about. In April 2012 he was given a wake up call that put him in a situation where he couldn't help but to pay attention. At the age of 23 his body betrayed him, shutting down and landing him on is back literally helpless in a hospital room. "I needed to slow down," he told  me, "and I think that was God's way of letting me know I had to do it now before it was too late." Little by little he was able to get his strength back and begin living his life again. "God sends things our way to test our faith," Esco says. "He definitely got my attention."

It seemed as though things were looking up for Montana Esco when 2013 came in, however, just days into the new year he was awaken out of his sleep into a situation that almost ended his life.

In what was an apparent burglary,  Esco startled intruders in his home and was shot numerous times, left for dead. Surviving that situation was the beginning of a new chapter for the young man. "After that I had no doubt that God was real," he told me. "He left me here for a reason. I think God has a plan for me, and I want to use the opportunity he has given me to help get other people's attention."

As has been his custom Montana took to social media with his story, even sharing pictures of his injuries. Thousands shared his testimony. "The response has been overwhelming," he told me. " People told me that my story changed their lives." After the shooting he was thinking about retaliating against those involved but the situation taught him another way. "I feel blessed just to still be here," he says. "I decided to let God handle the situation. I just have to work on me."

Montana has begun speaking to groups about his story, and plans to visit schools in the near future with the message that you can't give up on life. He is also working on an outline of a book that he hopes will also inspire others to see life as something precious. His message is clear: "You don't want to take a day for granted. You never know what's going to happen. Learn from every incident and try not to repeat your mistakes."

To stay in touch with Montana Esco follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/montanaesco. You can also email him at montanaesco_bookinginfo@yahoo.com or call him at 1.747.777.ESCO (3726).

*     Montana Esco will be giving an exclusive update to his story to Conversations LIVE host Cyrus Webb Sunday, June 29, 2014 @ 6p.m. et (5p.m. ct/3p.m. pt). Listen in at 347.426.3645 or www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive.

Mississippi Author Andre Johnson Uses Personal Battle with Mental Illness to Encourage Others

Though some stray away from sharing their personal struggles, Mississippi's own Andre Johnson is opening up the door of conversation on mental illness and what it is important to understand how it affects all of us. 

In his book MAN WITH THREE FACES (Yearning For Control) Johnson,45, chronicles not just his own battle with mental illness and getting proper treatment, but how recognizing his spiritual needs helps to strengthen him for the journey ahead. 

Johnson was properly diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder in April 1995. "It helped me put a name to all the emotions," he says. "Getting the proper medication and care helped me to deal with the ups and downs that came with the illness." 

The book shares Johnson's experience as an impoverished mixed raced man, growing up in a single, Black household that finds himself thrust into fatherhood. In working to support his family, he finds himself caught up in the crossfire of cultures typically present in the Deep South. As the pressures of his world increase, mentally, he moves to a darker side of abuse and derangement, exhibiting aspects that in another age would have been considered as 'possession'. At a crisis point his wife had him institutionalize where he is successfully treated. His life goes on with him coming to peace with himself, his family, his GOD and his various heritages. 

MAN WITH THREE FACES is available at Createspace by going to http://www.createspace.com/4720045 or Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Man-Three-Faces-Yearning-Control-ebook/dp/B00JCSU11Y/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1396868351&sr=1-3. 

Johnson can be reached at imforjah@bellsouth.net. His website is http://www.manwiththreefaces.com/. 

Cyrus Webb hosts LIVING HISTORY month events to recognize the past celebrate the future

During the month of February Mississippi native and media personality Cyrus Webb will be sharing the importance of recognizing the past yet celebrating the possibilities of tomorrow. Dubbing it LIVING HISTORY MONTH, he will be encouraging individuals of all ages to not just know where they have come from but celebrate those who are working today to make their lives meaning, preparing for the future.

"It's not about race," says Webb, 38, understanding that many people think of just Black History Month during the month of February. "It's about realizing that all of us have examples of courage in our past that we can draw strength from today and use to impact the world tomorrow." 

Feb. 24,26 and 28th Webb will be working with the young people who attend Cheerful Assistance (292 Commerce Park Dr., Ste. A) in Ridgeland, MS, sharing his project "What Makes Me ME". The 80+ students which range from ages 4-17 will be able to write about their own heroes and how they will strive to make the world better. At the end of the week's activities Webb will compile their stories in a special edition of his publication Conversations Magazine for each of them to have.

On  Thurs. Feb. 27th Webb will be his Living History program to the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) at 4p.m. Joined by Mississippi author Darlene Collier who penned the autobiography MARRIED TO SIN, the two will discuss how she was able to grow up in a segregated Mississippi, endure abuse and learn to survive and thrive, providing an example for us all. Admission to this event is free and open to the public.

For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.cyruswebbpresents.com. 

Mississippi Native Cyrus Webb prepares for the release of his first book

After over 10 years of supporting other authors in promoting their books, Rankin County native Cyrus Webb is now preparing for the release of his own.

Sharing the news first on Facebook Webb announced that his inspirational book WORDS I CHOOSE TO LIVE BY will be published by Bonita and Hodge Publishing Group LLC later this year.

"This is an amazing opportunity for me," says Webb,38. "To be able to share my words with the world in book form is a dream come true. Very excited about what's to come."

Bonita and Hodge Publishing Group LLC is the vision of a family of literary lovers, avid readers, and entrepreneurs with dreams of establishing a global publishing company. The collaboration of these talented, energetic, go-getters resulted in the formation of company.

Founded and established in January 2012, Bonita and Hodge Publishing Group, LLC is a small press publisher focused on making an enormous impact in the literary industry. It is committed to publishing outstanding books by talented authors representing a variety of  genres.

Webb's book WORDS I CHOOSE TO LIVE BY is a collection of affirmations designed to inspire the reader and encourage them to remember the importance of living each day to the fullest. For more information about Webb and upcoming projects visit www.cyruswebbpresents.com. For more on Bonita and Hodge Publishing visit www.bonitaandhodgepublishing.com.

(Sat. Oct. 26th) Cyrus Webb Presents "...This Is Now" Art Show in Pearl, MS

(Pearl, MS) For the past 10 years Mississippi artist/poet/radio and tv personality and Editor of Conversations Magazine Cyrus Webb has had the privilege of sharing his gift of the arts in classrooms, during art shows around the South and in exhibits. 

On Sat. October 26, 2013 he will bring together over 40 pieces of his art in an exhibit called "...This Is Now". This will take place at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) from 12-3p.m. 

"This is going to be one of my best shows to date," says Webb, 38. "It will feature my work from the past decade, including my newest work. I  want everyone who attends this event to get a clearer view of my growth as a man and an artist."

Admission is free, however,  art will be available for purchasing.

For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.cyruswebbpresents.com.

MS' artist Treil Sampson ends July celebrating his debut single IN THE CLOUDS

by Cyrus Webb

Mississippi-based Magnolia Records ends the month of July celebrating the introduction of their 19 year old artist Treil Sampson's single and video for IN THE CLOUDS.

Sampson's single became available for free down through MTV.com on Tues. July 2nd. "It feels good to get the support and the validation," says Sampson. "I'm glad that people are supporting the project. Music is who I am, and I'm excited to be able to share that now with the world."

Treil Sampson of Yazoo City, MS has loved music since he was young, but this year he is sharing his own skills with the world through tracks like "In the Clouds." Featuring artist Psycho, the single is still available for free at http://www.mtv.com/artists/treil-Sampson . Though a song just right for the clubs, the single also showcases both artists' lyrical abilities.

"I am doing this not just for me but to show others from where I'm from and even around the world what was possible for them," Treil says. "We don't have to let where we're from dictate where we can go. I know that music can take me anywhere."

Not to be pigeon-holed as just another party rapper, Sampson is already working on releasing music that shares his positive outlook on life and is currently working on a special event that will be taking place in October of this year.

Stay in touch with Treil Sampson on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/yea_im_elevated  and on Facebook under Treil Sampson.

For booking contact Shana Jackson at magnoliarecording@gmail.com or call 1.662.763.7042. Watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRdOOIxkQuo&feature=youtu.be

Yazoo City Artists Psycho and Treil Sampson Prepare to Make Their Mark on the Music World

Two young men. Both from Mississippi. Both with dreams of something more---and they have the talent to get it.

Recording artists Psycho and Treil Sampson are from Yazoo City, Mississippi, however they have skills that they believe the world will appreciate.

On Sunday, June 30th @ 6p.m. central (7p.m. eastern) they will be guests on Conversations LIVE radio show with host Cyrus Webb discussing their love of music and introducing their new singles.

Psycho, 25, has garnered attention for his mixtape ILLUMINATION and is excited to show others what he has to offer. "There more out there than what you sometimes hear on the radio," he says. I'm all about being myself and creating the kind of music that I love. He will be promoting his single ALMOST FAMOUS during the radio show. He can be found at http://www.facebook.com/yazoothelegend . 

For Treil Samspon, 19, his single IN THE CLOUDS is his first release and one he's proud of. "I've been loving music since I was young," he says. His inspiration comes from life. He can be found at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Treil-Sampson/193734617432428 

The Conversations LIVE interview can be heard online here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2013/06/30/recording-artists-treil-and-psycho-on-conversations-live

Both artists will be releasing their singles to the public for free download online on Tuesday, July 2, 2013. For more information about the artists and their upcoming events contact Shana Jackson at magnoliarecording@gmail.com or 1.662.763.7042.

Janky John: Building a Brand and a Community, One Order at a Time

by Cyrus Webb

Clarksdale, MS native John Smith, Jr known to many as  Janky John is not just operating a business in Jackson, MS. The Wing Station (5038 Parkway Drive * Jackson, MS 39211) is the realization of not just a dream for himself but an example of what is possible. Offering over 20 signature flavors, it has become a place that offers great food, reliable service and a love for the community.

The 34 year old started The Wing Station in 2008 while living in Miami, and when he came back to Mississippi in 2011 he knew it was a business he wanted to continue. The result has been amazing, bringing in not just a diverse clientele but opportunities for the community as well. John also serves as  VP of the Gamma Pi Alumni Assoc. Of Kappa Alpha Psi and has been a sponsor of a youth basketball and football teams in the metro area donating jerseys and meal sponsorships. John has also began the process of empowering other young males with the knowledge of  entrepreneurship an opportunity to franchise The Wing Station and make them apart of the American Dream.

John told me that he sees the success of The Wing Station as a result of his hard work and dedication to the business paying off. "It makes me feel good to see the same customers coming in," he says. "They enjoy their experience with us and tell others about us as well." To show its appreciation  for its customers, The Wing Station runs a lunch special weekdays from 11-2p.m. that includes 6 wings and fries for only $5.00 (add a drink for $1 more). This way it is able to provide something for every one's budget.

Outside of running a business full-time Janky John is hoping to add another title to his name later this year, that of author. He is currently writing a book called A.S.U based on his experiences at Alcorn State University. "In 2000 I had been out of college about a year and began to reflect on my college years," he says. "I realized that what I had learned there was also helping me in building my business savvy aka my hustle. College taught me how to adapt to different perspectives and individuals as well as develop my customer service skills." It is his hope to release the book at the beginning of football season.

Janky John's advice for anyone with a dream? "Make a commitment to invest in yourself. Do what you love, follow your passion and you can't help but succeed."

Stay in touch with The Wing Station at www.thewingstation.net as well as through social media on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-WING-Station/134506403303824 and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/thewingstation. You can also call 1-888-769-WING (9464).

Cyrus Webb in his acting debut: Short Film BROKEN SILENCE

Mississippi native Cyrus Webb makes his acting debut in the short film BROKEN SILENCE. Brought to life by filmmaker Yvetta Williams of Kia Productions it tackles the tough issues of betrayal, trust, infidelity and the consequences of deadly secrets. Webb plays the character Dave. The project was praised at Crossroads Film Festival and the Tupelo Film Festival the year of its release (2005). It keeps you glued to your seat while you travel the emotional roller-coaster of one married couples journey through a treacherous situation.

Kid Energy USA Visits Mississippi with Burnie & Earl (Day 1)

The message of the 811 campaign has two exciting characters taking the lead in teaching safety and the importance of calling before you dig. Burnie and Earl, the creation of Louisiana-based Kid Energy USA, is sharing with schools the importance of knowing what is under your feet, and Mississippi is the first stop of what will be a nationwide tour for the two characters.

"We are excited to have been chosen by Kid Energy USA to spearhead this new project," says Cyrus Webb, publicist for the project and a Mississippi native. "I have seen firsthand how the message is being received, and this gives me optimism about how the rest of the country will respond."

The tour kicked off on Tuesday, January 22, 2013 at John Hopkins Elementary School in Jackson, MS at the invitation of educator Damon Hoskins. His class was the host room for the k-3rd graders to watch the educational film about 811 featuring Burnie and Earl as well as the characters themselves. 

"I was glad to be able to have Cyrus and Kid Energy visit our school," says Hoskins. "Anything that inspires the kids and teaches them valuable information is always welcome."

One by one Webb introduced Burnie and Earl and the importance of 811 education to various groups at John Hopkins. "It was thrilling to watch not only how the kids got the information but how they were excited to learn," he says.

After spending three hours with the elementary school the Kid Energy USA team headed to Rankin County and Visions Academy in Brandon, MS where two dozen students gathered to learn about 811 safety. 

In each location the students were given activity books to color and have fun with. The book also included the story of Burnie and Earl and how they learned about 811 safety.

On Wednesday, January 23, 2013 the group will be headed to Yazoo City. 

For more information visit www.burnieandearl.com. To get additional information about the tour contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.