Change Yourself, Change the World by Visionary Speaker and Author, Whitney Vosburgh.
In response to a growing call, visionary author and business leader Whitney Vosburgh will be leading two fun, highly interactive weekend workshops in Berkeley, California in August 10-11th and 17-18th.
These workshops will guide you, together with a select number of participants, through the process of awakening to your unique gifts, identifying your “North Star” for a sense of purpose and creating a personalized action-focused pathway that enables you to head into 2020 with enhanced vision and enthusiasm at work and in life.
Each of these two “Change Yourself, Change the World” weekend workshops will take the principles and framework featured in Vosburgh’s two books and provide an immersive experience designed to transform the lives of participants. These inspiring and insightful new books co-authored with Dr. Charlie Grantham — “WORK THE FUTURE! TODAY:Finding your path to purpose, passion and profit” and the accompanying workbook, “WORK THE FUTURE! TODAY 2019 POCKET PAL: A faster path to purpose, passion and profit”— have received praise from a wide spectrum of leaders and readers in the pursuit of regenerative business growth that also provides purpose and meaning.
Sign up soon places are going fast! Your $300 dollars for this workshop is an investment in your personal growth as well as your career. You will leave with a deeper understanding how to achieve your own preferred work/life balance.
Whitney Vosburgh, Change Yourself, Change the World Host
Whitney Vosburgh is co-founder of WORK THE FUTURE! TODAY, a social venture that offers vision, leadership and solutions for maximizing personal, organizational and societal potential, and co-founder of Brand New Purpose, a brand transformation consultancy that creates purpose-built, value-driven opportunities. He is also a consulting Chief Marketing Officer and change agent for Fortune 20 companies and Silicon Valley startups, guiding over $20+ billion worth of M&A, IPOs, sales, pivots and launches. Whitney graduated with an M.A. in Religious Leadership for Social Change from Graduate Theological Union, and with a B.F.A. from Parsons School of Design in New York City. His expertise on the Future of Work has been featured in four books, including a bestseller by Dan Pink, and in “Conscious Company” magazine. When Whitney is not focusing on business consulting, speaking and writing, he can be found making art, which has been exhibited throughout the world. His Tweets can be found at: @brandguru
Marcus Druen, Change Yourself, Change the World Workshop Leader.
Marcus Druen is an expert on individual and business transformation, and has led hundreds of workshops focusing on empowerment and transformation in over 20 countries. His consulting firm, Audacify, is based in the UK. He shares Whitney Vosburgh’s commitment to restore the sense of “shared humanity” to the workplace, at this time when the move to de-personalized “digitization” is proceeding with alarming speed. He also shares the belief that all change begins within each individual. Marcus is a graduate of Cologne Business School.
For more information about these workshops, visit: https://bit.ly/2Yn4YKn
and https://bit.ly/2XkMVbd,
and to learn more about
Whitney Vosburgh’s “Work The Future! Today” books, visit: http://www.workthefuture.today
I have a few public shows you’ll want to catch in your new July Calendar. I’m finally starting up some Marriott Walnut Creek shows beginning this Saturday July 6 at 6pm. Details below.
And this Sunday July 7, after almost a year away, I finally return to the Pairings Wine Bar and Restaurant in downtown Pleasanton for a special “chill” session from 1:30-4:30pm in the afternoon. Details below.
Know too that I’m finally back with the great keyboardist-vocalist Janice Maxie-Reid on July 19 at Havana in Walnut Creek. She’s a true favorite ofaudiences around the world, so don’t miss it! Details below.
Then yet another version of the Rolando MoralesTrio appearson Saturday July 27, 9-11:30pm, also at Havana in Walnut Creek. This will be the first time we play together as a trio: Grammy-winning Latin percussionist-vocalist Omar Ledezma; bassist from Arturo Sandoval, the funky Dewayne Pate; and Yours Truly on guitar, guitar synth and voice. We’ll be stretching like never before. Reserve your seats early, because it will fill up. Details below.
Have a great 4th of July break and see you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
Rolando Morales enjoying some time playing with his nephews playing for Rolando’s mom
¡Hola, mi Gente!
After my car repairs, I did a few more gigs and then drove down to my mom’s in So Cal last Monday to join my brother visiting with his family from Michigan. They had already been there a week and were finishing up their last 4 days.
My little twin nephews are growing up, getting ready to start high school. Rocco has stretched to 5’9, Vincent about 5’7. Both had been playing a lot of hoops since I saw them last. When I told them over the phone that I was driving down to kick their butts on the basketball court, Rocco just chuckled and said, “I don’t think so.”
A couple days after I got down there, I taught Rocco (guitar) and Vincent (trumpet) an Ennio Morricone piece I arranged for them that morning to play as a duet and played the tune for my mom. They are both already quite accomplished for their ages. I think Rocco is better than I was at his age.
After working a couple hours, Vincent then said, “You wanna go out and play basketball?” They got big smiles and were ready to kick my butt. We went out into the hot sun and I schooled them. They did get a lot better, but they didn’t have a chance. I beat them 1 on 2, then we did about three 2 on 2 games with my brother in different combinations. Then I moved ever so slowly into the house and passed out for about 90 minutes on the couch. To quote Danny Glover in “Lethal Weapon,” “I’m getting too old for this shit.” And that’s an old reference.
I made it back in time for more private shows, including a very special, intimate wedding held on the beach in Montara. It was a heart-warming international gathering of love. It was an honor to play for it.
I have a combination of private and public shows all week. Try not to miss this one: This Friday July 19, 9-11:30pm, I’m finally back with the great keyboardist-vocalist Janice Maxie-Reid at Havana in Walnut Creek. With her sweet voice, funky playing and charm, she always is an audience favorite. We’ll be doing our expanded repertoire of classic R&B, soul, and Latin blends and inventions. Swing by! Details below.
Then this Saturday July 20, I’m back on solo guitar and voice at the Marriott Walnut Creek in the Lobby Lounge from 6-9pm. Details below.
And remember that next week I’ll have another version of the Rolando MoralesTrio appearingon Saturday July 27, 9-11:30pm at Havana in Walnut Creek. This will be the first time we play together as a trio: Grammy-winning Latin percussionist-vocalist Omar Ledezma; bassist from Arturo Sandoval, the funky Dewayne Pate; and Yours Truly on guitar, guitar synth and voice. We’ll be stretching like never before. Reserve your seats early, because it will fill up. Details below. See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
At the Montara Beach wedding
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES JULY 2019
Saturday July 6, Walnut Creek Marriott, Lobby Lounge & Bar, 2355 North Main Street, Walnut Creek, 6-9pm. After 2 months away, Rolando finally returns to this popular East Bay hotel and gathering spot in the newly renovated lounge in the shadow of Mount Diablo, where you can enjoy your favorite cocktail, fine wines and a lovely full menu. Enjoy a sophisticated environment with an international clientele and great acoustics, perfect for Rolando’s vast repertoire on solo guitar and voice and your wonderful night out. Reservations: (925) 934-2000, https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/oakwc-walnut-creek-marriott/.
Sunday July 7, Pairings Wine Bar and Restaurant, 310 Main Street, Pleasanton CA 94566, 1:30-4:30pm. After almost a year away, Rolando finally returns to this exciting social hotspot in downtown Pleasanton.They’re introducing a new “Social Sunday”, which will be a wine sipping, live music “chill” event. Rolando will perform a mellower side of his repertoire on solo guitar and voice to help ease you into your Sunday. Free! www.pairingscellars.com, (925) 398-8846.
Friday July 19, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. Rolando returns for this special series of duet engagements at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight, after almost half a year away, features the return of the charming keyboardist-vocalist who shared the stage with Stevie Wonder and Sting, the charismatic Janice Maxie-Reid; and on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, Rolando Morales. Together they create a unique musical alchemy, so don’t miss it! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
Saturday July 20, Walnut Creek Marriott, Lobby Lounge & Bar, 2355 North Main Street, Walnut Creek, 6-9pm. Rolando returns to this popular East Bay hotel and gathering spot in the newly renovated lounge in the shadow of Mount Diablo, where you can enjoy your favorite cocktail, fine wines and a lovely full menu. Enjoy a sophisticated environment with an international clientele and great acoustics, perfect for Rolando’s vast repertoire on solo guitar and voice and your wonderful night out. Reservations: (925) 934-2000, https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/oakwc-walnut-creek-marriott/.
Saturday July 27, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. The Rolando Morales Trio returns to the East Bay! This version of the exciting trio makes its debut at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue, featuring for the first time at this venue, the powerful bassist who played with Arturo Sandoval and Robben Ford, the great Dewayne Pate; the Grammy-winning Latin percussionist-vocalist from Pacific Mambo Orchestra, the amazing Omar Ledezma; and on guitar, guitar synth and voice, Rolando Morales. This is a rare treat, first time publicly in the East Bay. Make your reservations early. It’ll fill up! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
CD SALES
If you would like to order a CD, read on. If you’d like to order our CD “Rolando Y Qué?!”, you can pick it up at my website, the gigs or by mail. They’re $15.00 at the gigs, or $17.00 by mail to cover postage and handling. TO ORDER THE NEWEST CD “ROLANDO, Y QUÉ?!” by mail: Send a check or money order payable to Rolando Morales for $17.00 for the CD and postage to Rolando Morales, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605. and I’ll send it to you. Let me know if you’d like .it signed.
TO ORDER THE ORIGINAL “PASSPORT: 10th ANNIVERSARY EDITION” CD by mail, send $17.00 to the same address as above. Be sure to include your return address.
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales Group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
Keith Okie (middle) and Rebel Sol members Jason Teague, and Thomas “Doc” Glendenning
The music of Rebel Sol comes from a deep spiritual desire to shine light and love on the world. Not just your average party band; these guys serve a higher purpose. They know the true power of love and walk through life in awareness of the strength that comes from the musical gifts that have been bestowed upon them.
This vibration shines through in the music. It encourages us to care for one another, to live in harmony with our families and community, to dissolve mental and spiritual boundaries and to break the bonds of conditioning that bind us as individuals and a society.
Rebel Sol reminds us that even after the darkest night, the sun always rises, the light will always shine and that the universe is an infinitely wonderful place.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
SATURDAY JUL. 6, 2019 at the Orpheum Theater in Flagstaff AZ. Keith Okie & Friends with special guests Zoe and Petey of Kill Babylon Coalition “Southwest Acoustic Reggae Showcase” Doors at 8 pm Show at 9 pm $5 at the door https://www.orpheumflagstaff.com/
This is one of the biggest and best local theaters here in northern Arizona. Great spot! They actually sought us out on this one to put a show together for their fourth of July weekend series.
THURSDAY, JUL. 18th, 2019 at the Marquee Theater in Tempe, AZ. Toots and the Maytals with Keith Okie & Rebel Sol and others. Doors at 6 Show at 7 $33 (or $20 presales from opening bands) https://www.marqueetheatreaz.com/
Toots and the Maytals are one of the all-time greatest reggae bands ever. Toots Hibbert is credited with inventing the word reggae and is one of the most soulful, well-known and prolific artists in reggae history. A real original legend.
SATURDAY, AUG. 24, 2019 at The Hut in Tucson AZ. E.N. Young with Keith Okie & Rebel Sol and ZeeCeeKeely Show at 9:30 $5 Rebel Sol set is 10:45 to 11:45 https://www.facebook.com/TheHutTucson/
E.N. Young plays with one of the biggest national reggae bands call Tribal Seeds. He also owns a studio called Imperial Sound and a label called Roots Musician Records. Big player in the national reggae scene. Really good music too. Everyone is excited for this one.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12th Havasu Landing Tribal Reggae Festival Havasu Landing Resort and Casino (on lake Havasu outside of needles, CA) Set time and details to follow. www.havasulanding.com
Media Contact: Edie Okamoto at edie.okamoto@riovida.net or 510-693-0166 Feel free to contact her for any further information, videos, photos and to schedule interviews.
I’ve been flying under the radar yet again, doing more private events throughout La Bahia. That, as well as investing the hours it takes to create these opportunities and bring them to fruition.
I do love flexing my creative muscles to tailor my resources from small intimate parties to large-scale private events. I just did one for about 35 people and am putting things in place for another for about 2,000 people. So if YOU have an event coming up, small or large, know that I have the experience to fulfill your vision and needs. Send me an email or text and we’ll make it happen! rmusic@pacbell.net, (510) 282-7778.
This week, in addition to another private event, I’m doing another fun public duet show thisFriday June 14 with the irrepressible Estaire Godinez on Latin percussion and voice at Havana in Walnut Creek. When we do these, we like to dive deep into our repertoire into new, old and never done before tunes, including spontaneous new inventions that surprise even us. Make your reservations! Details below.
Then on Father’s Day, this Sunday June 16, Estaire invited me to play with her band in concert at the Dads and Jazz Festival at the Dunsmuir Historic Estate, also known as the Dunsmuir House in Oakland. The festival runs from 2-6pm, and we’ll be playing about 2:30-3:30pm. They’ll have 2 other bands and tons of activities your Dad will love. We’ll have a great Quintet featuring musicians you know and love. Check out all the details below.
This month I’m also happy to finally be returning to Barone’s in Pleasanton after being away 2 months. I’ll be there Friday AND Saturday June 21st and 22nd from about 7:30-10:30pm. Details below.
And last, I have the Rolando MoralesTrio appearing on Friday June 28 at Havana in Walnut Creek. This will be the first time bringing in this version of the trio into this venue: master musicians David Belove on bass, the great Celso Alberti on drums, and Yours Truly on guitar, guitar synth and voice. Reserve your seats early, because it will fill up. Details below. See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR JUNE 2019
Friday June 14, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. Rolando returns for this special series of duet engagements at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature the charismatic Latin percussionist-vocalist who played with George Benson and Prince, the entertaining Estaire Godinez; and on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, Rolando Morales. Together they create a unique musical alchemy, so don’t miss it! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
Sunday June 16, Dads and Jazz Fathers Day Festival,Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, Festival 2-6pm, our show about 2:30-3:30pm.Rolando Morales joins forces with Estaire Godinez who will be leading her band in this special performance at this historic Oakland venue. Celebrate your dad with an experience he’s sure to remember! Beer tasting, cigar lounge, golf challenge games, 3 bands and so much more. Fun, right? Leading the band will be the Latin percussionist-vocalist from George Benson and Prince, the charismatic Estaire Godinez; on guitar, guitar synth and voice, the passionate Rolando Morales; the drummer from Brazil who played with Airto and Steve Winwood, the exciting Celso Alberti; the rock-solid bassist who played with Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, the great David Belove; and Estaire’s sister Beatrice Godinez lending her talents on vocals. General Admission $35. Local food vendors on site. See www.DadsandJazz.com to buy tix, for more info, including table options. Don’t miss it!
Friday June 21, Barone’s Restaurant, 475 St. John St., Pleasanton CA, approx 7:30-10:30pm. After 2 months away, Rolando returns two nights in a row to one of Pleasanton’s premiere dining establishments. Enjoy exquisite meals and service, libations and Rolando’s vast repertoire in the lively Cocktail Lounge. See www.baronespleasanton.com, (925) 426-0987.
Saturday June 22, Barone’s Restaurant, 475 St. John St., Pleasanton CA, approx 7:30-10:30pm. Rolando returns two nights in a row to one of Pleasanton’s premiere dining establishments. Enjoy exquisite meals and service, libations and Rolando’s vast repertoire in the lively Cocktail Lounge. See www.baronespleasanton.com, (925) 426-0987.
Friday June 28, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. The Rolando Morales Trio finally comes to the East Bay! This version of the exciting trio makes its debut at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature for the first time at this venue, the exciting drummer from Brazil who played with Airto and Steve Winwood, the great Celso Alberti; the rock-solid bassist who played with Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, the great David Belove; and on guitar, guitar synth and voice, Rolando Morales. This is a rare treat, first time publicly in the East Bay. You won’t believe what just three guys can create! Reserve early. It’ll fill up. www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
CD SALES
If you would like to order a CD, read on. If you’d like to order our CD “Rolando Y Qué?!”, you can pick it up at my website, the gigs or by mail. They’re $15.00 at the gigs, or $17.00 by mail to cover postage and handling. TO ORDER THE NEWEST CD “ROLANDO, Y QUÉ?!” by mail: Send a check or money order payable to Rolando Morales for $17.00 for the CD and postage to Rolando Morales, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605. and I’ll send it to you. Let me know if you’d like .it signed.
TO ORDER THE ORIGINAL “PASSPORT: 10th ANNIVERSARY EDITION” CD by mail, send $17.00 to the same address as above. Be sure to include your return address.
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales Group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
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Whales are endangered due to our careless and feckless behaviors and policies.
So far in the Western United States scientist of the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) shared more whales than ever have died and washed ashore in California, Oregon, Washington and Alaska. So far 73 whales have washed up. Whales are dying due to malnutrition and it is suspected that the plastics causes indigestion and the microplastics in the water is damaging their organs. Whales are important to the eco balance of the oceans in ways we don’t even understand fully as yet.
Microplastics, which are tiny pieces of plastic, no larger than 5 mm, float around in the fill the water at the Monterey Bay according to Anela Choy. “Our findings buttress a growing body of scientific evidence pointing to the waters and animals of the deep sea, Earth’s largest habitat, as the biggest repository of small plastic debris,” said Anela Choy, the lead author of a study paper by the MBARI.
MBARI’s uses underwater robots to filter plastic particles out of seawater multiple times at two the Monterey Bay and in Moss Landing Harbor at the Pacific Coast of California. The study showed microplastic samples from five to 1,000 meters below the surface. They found identical concentrations of microplastic particles near the surface and in the deepest waters surveyed. However in the mid range, at 200 to 600 meters down, the pollution was 4x higher than at the surface. Shockingly they found that all of the animal specimens they surveyed had internal microplastic.
Juneteenth commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States otherwise known as Freedom Day. Juneteenth is an abbreviation of “June nineteenth” the day of the abolition of slavery in Texas on June 19, 1865. The date was fortified in our collective memory thanks to the trend that started on January 11, 1865 in Kansas and spread over 39 other states. It helps to celebrate the accomplishments of our forebearers and hopefully it will encourage us to hold on the freedoms gained and to continue to free slaves. Unfortunately the number of people working in servitude and outright slavery in the US is on the rise again. This make it even more important to observe this holiday.
San Jose, California will be celebrated at 194 S. Market Street, San Jose
For over 38 years, the Juneteenth Festival in San Jose/Silicon Valley has averaged over 6,000 attendees. This year they are featuring the amazingly talented painter, 12-years-old Tyler Gordon in the Family Activities area.
Tyler Gordon is a phenomenal painting who can be observed live in the “Live Painting” area.
Faith Evans is the Headliner for this year’s Juneteenth in San Jose
Faith Evans is a talented singer who has 3.1 millions of fans listening to her monthly on Spotify. This talented artist often stays in the headlines due to her turbulent private life.
Faith Evans is a great example of an amazing singer who has a turbulent private life. After divorcing Soul and Spiritual singer Kiyamma, with whom she had one child Chyna Griffin. She was married to Notorious Big, with whom Faith Evans shared a son called Christopher Jordan Wallaces. Faith was supposedly accused by Jay-Z of having an affair with Tupac Shakur. After Notorious Big was shot in a drive by shooting, she married to the record producer Todd Russaw. Faith Evans and Todd Russaw had two boys, Joshua and Ryder. The split in 2005 and were divorced in 2011.
Professionally Faith Evans is an accomplished R&B, Soul Music performer. She is considered to be the star that fortified Bad Boys Records’s Success and Sean John Combs success as a producer. Faith Evans is successful in her own rights not just as a singer who spans genres including R&B, Soul, and Hip Hop. She also is a published writerKeep the Faith: A Memoir. She describes her life as a child raised by her foster parents who were related to her very young mother, and the challenges she faces as she made her way through life as an actress and performer during the turbulent times of the 90s and 2000s. She and her co-writer Aliya S. King earned the 2008 African American Literary Award for the Best Biography/Memoir category for the book.
Faith Evans sings much about love, honesty, faith, survival and summarizes the pain and loss of her husband to gun violence in her 20 year memorial album, “The King & I” which include songs like “Somebody Knows.” and “It was worth it.” Her recent marriage to Stevie J. surprised many, since he has battled drug and sex addiction problems for much of his life. Unsurprisingly, he fathered 6 children with 5 different women prior to this marriage. In a surprising move Stevie J. who is known as a seedy Casanova due to his involvement in the someone low brow show Love & Hip Hop. A promising sign that the respectable singer Faith Evans may have had indeed a positive influence on him.
The event will include performers like 90s star Case, Jaguar Wright, Jon B., Reuben Studdard to groups like the Drifters with a wide range of local artists from Rap/Hip Hop to R&B, Gospel, and Jazz.
There will be over 30 vendors with many black artists and crafts artists. Great way to enjoy the summer and the fact that about 250 years ago we started the journey toward equality and freedom for all.
Divas Denise Perrier and Lavay Smith will perform a Tribute to Bessie Smith and 1920’s Jazz and Blues
Featuring the songs of Bessie Smith and 1920’s Jazz and Blues, with Lavay Smith and Denise Perrier (vocals), Chris Siebert (piano), Pete Devine (drums), Joe Kyle (bass) and Rob Barics (reeds).
Internationally recognized as the finest voices in classic Jazz and Blues, Lavay Smith and Denise Perrier pay tribute to the Jazzy Blues songs of Bessie Smith and the 1920’s. Accompanied by an all-star band that sounds as tight as the legendary musicians they emulate, you’ll think The Back Room was a Roaring ‘20’s speakeasy.
Tickets are $25 and are available at the link below, or you may purchase your tickets at the door the night of the show. Doors open one half hour before show time. We accept cash only at the door (ATMs are nearby). Children under 12 are free. The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own adult beverage with no additional corkage fee. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-654-3808. Thank you for your support!
“Drew Youngs, Celso Alberti grooving with Rolando Morales at a private event last Saturday”
May 28, 2019
¡Hola, mi Gente!
I’ve been flying under the radar again, doing some private events that really kept me occupied. One kept me jumping for a couple months and we just finished it Saturday night. It was a performance with my 6-piece band, sound and lighting crew. I was proud of my guys: Celso Alberti, David Belove, Omar Ledezma, Drew Youngs, Bob Crawford, and Jeff Cressman running sound. We made our client very, very happy. No small feat, considering he played bass in the early days of the Eagles.
Remember, we can do this for YOU as well! Feel free to contact me if you have an event or party coming up and can use some live music. We’ll contour a package to meet your needs. Don’t be shy and contact us early!
This week is largely private again, but I do have a fun duet show coming up thisFriday May 31st with the irrepressible Estaire Godinez on Latin percussion and voice at Havana in Walnut Creek. It’s been several months since she’s performed with me at this venue. Last time, we really got the place going, and we certainly intend to do so again. Make your reservations! Details below.
We’ll have much more for you next month. I’ll have the full June Calendar for you next week after I confirm details. You can also check my website Calendar Page as we get closer, as I’ll probably be posting there before the letter goes out. See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
LAST PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR MAY 2019
Friday May 31, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx. 9-11:30pm. Rolando returns for this special series of duet engagements at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature the charismatic Latin percussionist-vocalist who played with George Benson and Prince, the entertaining Estaire Godinez; and on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, Rolando Morales. Together they create a unique musical alchemy, so don’t miss it! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
CD SALES
If you would like to order a CD, read on. If you’d like to order our CD “Rolando Y Qué?!”, you can pick it up at my website, the gigs or by mail. They’re $15.00 at the gigs, or $17.00 by mail to cover postage and handling. TO ORDER THE NEWEST CD “ROLANDO, Y QUÉ?!” by mail: Send a check or money order payable to Rolando Morales for $17.00 for the CD and postage to Rolando Morales, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605. and I’ll send it to you. Let me know if you’d like .it signed.
TO ORDER THE ORIGINAL “PASSPORT: 10th ANNIVERSARY EDITION” CD by mail, send $17.00 to the same address as above. Be sure to include your return address.
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales Group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
This email was sent to you for Rolando Morales: RMG, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605
There is a new most likely Republican sheriff in town. A group of young Republicans who met during their work at Republican National Committee got together to create the Independent Journal Review, which is owned by https://imge.com/.
IMGE is a marketing company that provides: “Fresh concepts. Unparalleled execution.” The company provides digital marketing campaigns to troubled companies as for instance Boing, burdened by the shut down of an entire division of planes, due to their lack of quality control. The Republican Governors Association who is suffering from the many problems they have had thanks to being paid off by the Russian Sponsored NRA. John James for Senator campaign who lost against Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich. The also market on behalf of “Winning for Women.” A non-profit group that seems to be designed to sway the wives of Republican men to vote against their own interests and cruel policies like “Childen in Cages” camouflaged as security. Free Market concepts like eliminating Roe vs Wade, women’s right over their own bodies.
When receiving a facebook post from IJR it was impressive how well edited the newsclip were. I was struck by the partisanship, strung together to cause malaise in potential American voters. The company owned and operated by highly committed Republicans offers IJR red and strangely IJR blue. When reviewing the clips from that point of view it becomes apparent that the blue and the red posts have the same goal. Increasing partisanship, creating uncertainty and strife.
This post is design to turn off African Americans and get them to dislike Biden. And, at the same time have regular Republicans feel terrible about “African Americans.” Goal? Causing strife.
https://ijr.com/biden-campaign-trump-kim/
I look at life from both sides now, from here and there…
It would be great if it was genuinely bi-partisan content. Unfortunately it seems designed to increase the separation between different factions in the US – following the strategy of causing hate and deepening divides to serve the small hardcore, rightwing racist misogynists. The only group of people who are fond of the current POTUS.
US Political News made in Colombia, South America, masquerading as an Alexandria, VA based company. Is it designed for people who want to learn what they already prefer?
It is interesting that the company pretends to be pro democracy but uses the Russian style Kompromat techniques to influence people.
San Francisco culture of mutual support helped create great opportunities for entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams.
Since before the formation of this country by great men like Benjamin Franklin one of the best parts of living on this continent is that everyone has a chance to create the life they want to have. Benjamin Franklin is a great example of someone who grew up in a modest home, ventured out on his own to become a very wealthy world leader. Self-educated Abe Lincoln is another example of a young half orphan who made his own way in the world, reaching great achievements as a lawyer and US president. Andrew Carnegie was born into a Scottish weaver’s family that shared a one room house with their neighbors. Yet, later in the US he became synonymous with the Gilded Age. John D. Rockefeller who as the son of a con man and a very religious mother started out as a bookkeeper built one of the greatest wealth an American family ever enjoyed. He is quoted as saying: “The growth of a large business is merely a survival of the fittest”. Even though he was a very tough and sometimes ruthless competitor he ended up donating more than $500 million to various philanthropic causes. Back in his days this was quite a lot of money.
In recent history we have Steve Jobs, the son of a Syrian refugee, was adopted and started his career in the warehouse. Ray Kroc started as an ambulance driver at 15 years old and later started McDonald’s corporation, considered one of the fastest growing companies. Sarah Breedlove, later known by one of her married names Madam C. J. Walker’s parents and siblings were slaves, yet she became the first known African American female Millionaire. Andy Grove spent part of his childhood in a Nazi concentration camp and came to the US penniless when he had to flee Hungary from Soviet Oppression at age 20. Later he became associated with the success of Intel, a company he led to international success as its CEO. Arthur Rock’s dad had a candy store and Arthur’s education was possible thanks to the G.I. bill. Arthur Rock founded one of the first investment firms in Silicon Valley, called Davis & Rock. He is considered one of the founders of Silicon Valley. Eric Hippeau received a wonderful education in France and chose to come to the US to achieve his fame and fortune. He came to the US as an ad sales manager for IDG, before becoming publisher of PC Magazine, CEO of Ziff-Davis, Softbank, and now runs a very successful venture firm, Lerer Hippeau.
In the US if you work hard and smart you can succeed. Yes, it is quite clear that in most cases being well educated or rather being able to educate yourself and re-educate yourself is a prerequisite for success. And yes, it possible to reach amazing success in the United States, regardless of background and family ties.
Is it easier to achieve success when you have a loving and supportive family that can afford to pay for a great education and make wonderful introductions? Of course, it is. Is it harder for children who have to overcome the long-term physiological and psychological challenges of ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences)? Yes, it is harder. However, it is possible. This is what is unique about the USA. Many businesses in the US are merit based, especially in California.
When communities, business leaders, and educational institutions come together to focus on helping kids become successful adults, entire cities and villages thrive. Providing education that provides students with the life-long ability to learn may be one of the top gifts we can give our local communities. Most thriving towns have benevolent leaders who care about all its inhabitants. Why not bring the leaders in your community together to facilitate a local plan to create a thriving and high-quality place to live and grow up in. Amazing success will be up to the individual, luck, hard work, lots of studying, and the willingness to put in the necessary effort. There are no shortcuts to wealth, short of inheriting it. And as every successful business leader knows making the first money is easier than to hold on to the money and growing the business. This takes management skills, knowledge, competitiveness and most importantly content and satisfied customers.
It is best if we remind ourselves and future generations that only because someone else inherited their wealth, doesn’t make them the only ones who can thrive. With a strong desire to succeed, great networking skills, and the willingness to learn, the road to success is open to everyone in the USA. For self-made people there are no short cuts to success. It takes work and diligence, and the willingness to try over and over until the necessary skills are perfected.
In China during the Han Dynasty in the 6th century BC, when Confucius has a strong impact on culture the society was merit-based. Education became the key for social mobility back then in China. Europe opened its mind to become a merit-based society in the 17th Century and is still waffling about it. The US is the only country that was founded on the principles of being merit based. The West Coast naturally has embraced being merit-based since it was founded by people from all walks of life who were seeking fame and fortune in the 19th century during the gold rush era. Life in the Wild West required that towns people were there for each other and pool resources. This spirit of collaboration has survived in California. This is the reason why living is pleasant and easy. There is a “live and let live” attitude, and openness to new and different ways of looking at things, and the willingness to create teams, tribes, mutually beneficial groups, and everyone who is a good fit and is willing to contribute to the overall good is welcome.
Towns who are willing to support their neighbors’ kids thrive more than towns who live in brutally hierarchical ways without caring about each other. Businesses that receive help from financiers are able to afford an educated workforce. These businesses thrive easier. Invest in educating all kids, invest in your towns future. The investment in lifting the overall level of education of a town pays off within 10 to 15 years. It cannot be accomplished within a quarter. However, if you don’t invest in your city, you wil lend up with a ghost town suffering from unhappy, often drugged and depressed workforce who doesn’t work effectively, nor purchase anything. Every town has a chance to adopt these logical and simple principles if leaders choose to come together for the benefit of the entire population. Check out Oakland, CA it is now safer than Kansas City!
The show is designed to literally play with your emotions in an uplifting way. It works. The music immediately puts you into spa mode. The body relaxes as if you are having a hot rock treatment, with a body scrub, and your favorite full body massage.
The video provides uplifting messages about relaxation, forgiveness, togetherness and they are intermingled with the sounds of gongs that bring back memories of fabulous mediation sessions. Instant relaxation.
James Hood has perfected his musical genius. He is still able to make you feel your own feelings, like he did back when he played with the Pretenders. Since then he became one of the founding musicians of the world music genre. He perfected his art with a two-decades-plus run as a visionary ambient/electronica composer and performer. His sonic incense “Ceremony” and Pure Ceremony reached #1 on World and New Age charts in US and Canada.
Mesamerica is an instant classic that will be celebrated for many years to come. It represents a trend that will certainly swell as more people become aware of the soothing and healing effect it has – literally – on the body by encouraging the release of endorphins, seratonin, and other happy hormones. Mesamerica is there to reboot your body and soul and it has a long lasting effect.
It was produced by Poseidon Music who report: “The show is now running simultaneously in 12 North American cities, selling out 9/10 shows. 40,000 tickets and counting.”
And then there is the art and the production of this master piece. The art is world class.
The most spectacular thing about this experience to me is the art by Tatiana Plakhova. It is mesmerizing on this little video. Just imagine it or watch it in a setting that allows you to see a large dome of into which the video will draw you travel as you experience the cosmic journey with surround sound.
Tatiana Plakhova describes her art as infographics, which makes sense. She transmits so much more than just a pretty pictures. Her art communicates – it is the art of the future, now.
“The main idea is to show a new way of “infographic” drawings. Because everything we see is biological, mathematical or geological information. It can also be cultural patterns or any other thing. Complexity Graphics works are based on mathematical simplicity and harmony. I would describe them as infographic abstracts. This mathematical style helps me to illustrate everything from biological cell to the space and meditative worlds. That’s why I admire by math, because it’s everywhere and nowhere” Tatiana Plakhova
We will try to find out more information behind the many amazing people behind this new form of entertainment that is certainly here to stay. Stay tuned!
We believe in the American philosophy that free markets help each person rise to the best possible economic achievement for themselves. We are all in favor of a thriving economy.
The economy is thriving particularly well for the top 25% of the American population. Around the world poverty is at a 100-year low. According to Politifacts.com who compared World Bank statistics and other studies: “By World Bank figures, Smith actually understated the reduction. We’ve cut extreme poverty by 58 percent using the 2008 definition of extreme poverty, and 74.1 percent by the 2015 definition.”
Many business leaders plan to stay with a company only for a few years and therefore the long term stability of their companies is less important than the managers ability to cash out. If the economy shrinks, employees are upset, the companies are vulnerable to foreign or even domestic competition, it does not affect the manager personally as quickly, as it affects the rest of the economy.
Why might we encourage business leaders to watch the American, European, and Japanese middle-class standards of living? After all ever more people from the upper middle class are thriving. There are 7.1 million households in this country that have investable assets of $1 million or more. So why be concerned about the middle and lower-income brackets of the middle class?
What does income inequality even mean?
A recent study by the Fed reported in the Wall Street Journal stated that 25% of working individuals say they have no retirement savings at all, and 44% worried that their saving isn’t on track. Among younger workers, aged 18 to 29, 42% have nothing set aside, and only 26% believe they are adequately prepared for retirement. Even more disturbing 40% of Americans said they don’t have enough cash on hand to cover an unexpected $400 expense and 17% reported they did not have sufficient funds to meet their current obligations. This indicates that 57% lived either beyond their means or they did not earn enough. With the unemployment rate solidly below 4% it is most likely the later.
San Francisco has the highest median income in the country. It is reportedly at $110,816. This sounds great until you realize that how many people are not participating in driving the median income up to these wonderful levels, however they still have to pay the same for housing. The average cost for a 1-bed room apartment is $3,391.12 per month and naturally the rent or mortage for a dwelling fit for a family is even more. This spells trouble for employees who are not in managerial positions, particularly since Numbeo suggests that it takes $4,106.34 for living expenses for a family with 4 members before the rent. Add some student loan payments, the need to save money to take care of their kids the dream of maybe buying a house and it starts to look dismal for those who earn their living as teachers, truck drivers or service personal. This is when reality shows that a shrinking middle and lower-part of the middle class indeed will not foster the consumerism that Westerners have enjoyed for the past 70 years.
When the US economy is turned and/or allowed to be turned into a “third world economy,” the US will become a third world country.
7.1 Millions of extremely wealthy end up living in a country surrounded by 315.9 Million people, some of whom can’t afford to save $400 for their next emergency. Currently more than 50% of the US population earns less than $50,000. In many cases much less 20.3% of US households or every 5th household earned less than $25K per per year. For millennials the outlook explains why they prefer experiences instead of accumulating products. 58% of 35-yr-olds earn less than $50,000 per year and 81% of 25-yr-olds earn less than $50,000 per year. They barely can afford rent. Yes, many move to places that have more affordable homes, however their salaries may drop drop relative to the price of housing.
Yes, there are a few “Unicorns,” companies that make more money than ever. Apple is slated to become the first $1 Trillion dollar company. However the US economy is reliant on small businesses. There are 28,000,000 small businesses in the US and only 18,500 large companies. One half of the US economy is based on and relies on small business. Small businesses are the first to suffer when the middle class erodes. In the 70s 1 out of 5 small businesses folded in the first year. Today 50% of small businesses fail often due to lack of earnings. When the expendable income for so many Americans gets eroded due to the lack of “living wages” the US will turn into a third-world country. Currently in San Francisco and Marin County 1 in 5 is in need of food assistance, and 1 in 4 is at risk of going hungry, according to the San Francisco Foodbank. California is the tenth most affluent State in the US with the nearly 900,000 millionnaires.
Deloitte just releases their 2019 report is based on the views of 13,416 millennials questioned across 42 countries and 3,009 Gen Zs from 10 countries. While this does not provide a statistically correct sample for each country, it does give us a bit of an idea that could be considered a possible trend. The news is somewhat positive. 60% of the Millennials surveyed were confident that they could reach their own goals if they applied themselves. This could mean they are optimistic, or it could mean that they blame themselves for not being as successful as they wished they were.
Board of Directors may do well to start thinking a bit longer term. If a company doesn’t have a long range vision like most Chinese and European companies do, the US economy may be structurally damaged in ways that will affect its investors and business leaders.
Fortunately there are great examples of how communities can come together to make sure all the boats are lifted. Check out the articles about how Oakland, a city that was beleaguered by inequality problems, pulled together to lift the city out of poverty. It takes vision and it takes the will of those who have the power to effect change.
Low Down, ooh, still don’t know what I was waiting for… and my time was running wild, a million dead-end streets and Everytime I thought I got it made, the taste was not so sweet… So I turned myself to face me, but I never caught a glimpse, of how the others must see the faker, I’m much too fast to take that test.
Ch Ch Ch Changes turn and face the strange ch ch changes Don’t wanna be a richer man Ch Ch Ch Changes turn and face the strange ch ch changes Just gonna have to be a different man time may change me, but I can’t trace time
Ooh yeah
I watch the ripples change their size but never leave the stream of warm impermanence and so the days float through my eyes, but the days still seem the same and these children that you spit on as the try to change their world they are immune to your consultations they are quite aware of what they are going through
Ch Ch Ch Changes turn and face the strange ch ch changes don’t tell them to grow up and out of it
Ch Ch Ch Changes turn and face the strange ch ch changes you’ve left us up to our neck in it Time may change me but you can’t trace time strange fascination fascinating me Ah, changes are taking the pace I’m going through
Ch Ch Ch Changes turn and face the strange ch ch changes ooh, look out you rock ‘n rollers Ch Ch Ch Changes turn and face the strange ch ch changes pretty soon you’re gonna get older Time may change me, but I can’t trace time. I’ve said that time may change me, but I can’t trace time.
David Bowie performs Changes
Rock ‘n Rollers pretty soon you will get older
Boomers and Generation X is older now and here we are with global warming, the world in upheaval and a shrinking replacement generation which may have trouble taking care of themselves, their student loans, their kids, and especially the bulging and self-entitled older generation. As David Bowie tried to explain many decades ago:
“Time may change me, but I can’t trace time. Gonna have to be a different man. We never saw the fakers.”
Great song and timely lyrics. Families that pull together will make it through the next 50 years. David Bowie called it. And here we are and it will be fine especially for those who stop judging and instead support each other at a local basis.
The media is not really helping in promoting positive role models for boys.
Many men feel they are judged as cruel or mean. Why?
The general media often portrays men as cruel, insensitive brutes who only think about themselves and don’t respect women and children. While this improves reader and viewership for the general media, it does not foster self-respect among our young men and older men.
We need to take this outcry seriously because men are genuinely under severe stress. 129 suicides per happen each day and there are 3600 suicide attempts each day. It is the 10th highest cause of death in the US now. We need to help men cope to feel protected and worthy, even if they prefer not to engage in the horrible behaviors that are often highlighted. Of course, white men can’t be protected instead of everyone else, but they need to be protected alongside everyone else.
The age-adjusted suicide rate in 2017 was 14.0 per 100,000 individuals.
The rate of suicide is highest in middle-age white men in particular.
In 2017, men died by suicide 3.54x more often than women.
On average, there are 129 suicides per day.
White males accounted for 69.67% of suicide deaths in 2017.
In 2017, firearms accounted for 50.57% of all suicide deaths.
The general media eager to sell subscriptions is focused on highlighting men who beat up women, defraud companies, cheats on their wives or girlfriends, and recently they are assisting politicians with exceedingly harmful policies. Devastating the environment, cutting sick people off medical care, engage in racist insults and killings, and commit fraud, abuse workers, and worse. White men are portrayed as self-serving, prejudiced, greedy, selfish and mean. This is most likely an important reason why men, especially young men and men in their old age feel disillusioned, unwanted and unloved.
Some old and even younger white men are causing this reputation
These Alabama men have decided that men have the right to impregnate women against their will, rape them and these rapists are rewarded by the state of Alabama forcing the raped women to carry the rapists’ children for nine to ten months against their will.
The lack of positive role models in the media is hurtful to men.
The current president lies consistently, is needy and greedy and often behaves rudely and has no respect for anyone but those who are willing to act out his will without question regardless how self-damaging it may be for their own lives.
The president thinks it is a show of strength if he reneges on promises made to partner countries, praises mass murdering dictators, pays shut up money to tricksters to silence prostitutes with whom he had affairs during his current wife’s pregnancy. He is proud that he shut these cheaters up in order to win the presidential election that he may have lost if the truth would have come to light before the electorate chose him as president against the will of the majority of American voters.
Is this what manhood is all about for all men? Of course not, however it is no surprise that so many white men and boys feel lost. If men live up to the general media’s “ideals” they are creepy, and if they are not willing to engage in these abhorrent and mean behaviors, they are called weak. Many choose death at alarmingly growing rates.
As a society we have a choice. We can choose to highlight and praise good men and restore the good name of men in general by focusing on genuinely great men and leaders.
When I first met Estaire Godinez I was completely in awe of her grace. She is a genuinely graceful and stunningly beautiful women. It seemed that every time she spoke she reintroduced the concept of “Lady” to the world.
Estaire Godinez is also an international sensation. As a vocalist she seduces the audiences with her smokey voice that is clear and comes with a full range. A rare pleasure. She is reminiscent of each Blossom Dearie, Montserrat Caballé, and Billy Holiday. In short, her voice is unique and amazing. Her intonation and range of voice is perfect for ballads that make you sad, happy, or glad, for pop songs, for classical music, and especially for the bossa nova. This Maestra is clearly influenced by the many Boston’s Berkelee School of Music classes she internalized. She also trained privately with the celebrated Congero Giovanni Hidalgo.
Estaire Godinez, Besame Mucho from her latest Album “Estaire Godinez, This Time…”
Estaire Godinez “Live at the Dakota”
Her debut release “Live at the Dakota” published by Under the Radar Music Group, established Estaire Godinez as a singer and bandleader. This productive woman worked on her first album while traveling on tour world wide with the legendary George Benson. Peter Schimke (piano/keyboards), Eric Leeds (sax) Mike Scott (guitar), Stokely Williams (drums) and Serge Akou (bass). Mutually appreciative of her talents, their instruments weave effortlessly in and around her conga beats, creating a hypnotic fusion of jazz, pop and Brazilian/Afro- Cuban. They all plan with seductive ease, exchanging musical flirtations with airtight execution.
Estaire Godinez, “Live at the Dakota” at The Dakota Jazz Club in Minnesota.
Estaire Godinez, recording artists and live performer
She contributed her experiences as a performer in over sixty album recordings working with Prince, Coke Escovedo, Brothers Johnson, George Benson, Larry Graham and Norman Brown, the legendary composer Leon Ware, Rolando Morales, and many others. Estaire Godinez has a huge stage present. She is a sought to appear in live performances and performed with the Manakato Symphony as their featured vocalist, singing an aria and her original; the orchestral arrangements were done by her dear friend Pepper Williams. She appeared on stage alongside Peter Tosh, Actor/musician, Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, Bow-Wow-wow, Duncan Du, Javier Ruibal, and pop star Joaquin Sabina. In Europe, as the lead in the popular Madrid-based all-original pop-rock mainstays, Estaire Godinez and the Face Band.
Estaire Godinez has appeared in, sang for many films and advertisements. She also is a published author of The Yelva which was turned into a feature film. She was chosen to adapt the book for the screen. Estaire Godinez is a standing member at the commercials and film, including a movie produced by and starring Benjamin Bratt. She starred in the film and sang on the movie score.
Early on in her entertainment career, Estaire Godinez was dancer and one of the Bay Area’s co-founders of the unique dance troupe called Bachanal, an Afro Cuban/Haitian dance troupe comprised of some of the best dancers in the City, led by their fearless leader Gloria Toolsie from New York. Bachanal was one of the first of its kind in the Bay Area to perform with such a large ensemble and costumes.
Estaire Godinez, singer, composer, lyricist, congera, published author and film maker.
Estaire grew up around music with her 8 siblings. Her mother, a housewife, has a beautiful soprano voice and her father sang in a Baritone voice. Her parents immigrated to the US and settled in Oakland, where Estaire was born. Oakland is the most ethnically mixed city in the US and as a result Estaire grew up enjoying every type of musical style. Mexican Trios, Smooth Jazz, Pop, Rock, Big Band Jazz, Bossa Nova, Native American Music, Soul Music, Brazilian and African sounds. from Mexico well she grew up listening to Trios, and All styles of music coming from the influences of her older siblings. She plays frequently with brothers Salvador and Carlos both prominent musicians and song writers.
When asking Estaire Godinez for a quote about recent project she explains: “Estaire is also a published author, a book she published in 2015 titled THE YELVA (to which she has also wrote the screenplay adaptation for a feature film. Along with her published book she also has a short story and two books finished which she intends to publish. She stays true to her first love which is music. She is working on the music for her third album with Peter Schimke; this one will be released in 2019. This one will be dedicated to the musical stylings of Latin Jazz. “
Rolando Morales is joined by Estaire Godinez at Havana’s in Walnut Creek on May 31st, 2019
Estaire Godinez is currently working on a new film project. However, you can catch her on May 31, 2019 at Havana’s in Walnut Creek where she joins her good friend, vocalist and Guitarist Rolando Morales.
Estaire Godinez, this accomplished all around artist, dancer, singer, congera, performer, recording artist, actress, author and film maker brings grace and overall quality to everything she creates. Her bio reads: “Whether swing or Samba, backbeats or Bossa Nova, Godinez has always been fascinated by the push and pull of different rhythmic styles, mirroring her musical diversity, she is multilingual (Spanish, Portuguese, English) and has lived and performed throughout the world.
Stay tuned. This year Estaire Godinez plans to finish her third collaboration together with Peter Schimke. She is publishing her book, and adapting it to a movie script. In Maui, Hawai, she owns a company with her sister, where they will sell their art work and Jewelry, and offer Estaire Godinez’ music and books. Visit her own website to learn more.
