The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Literary Community Unites To Promote A National Day of Reading In Each State

Contact: Cyrus A. Webb, Founder of The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign

cawebb4@juno.com / 601.896.5616

Earlier this year, ABC News reported that over 30 million Americans ages 16 and up were unable to read or write well. This proves what many have said for some time: Illiteracy is an epidemic that is spreading daily, claiming victims of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds.

Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign and their literary partners are excited to announce a historic event geared towards sharing the gift of reading and books across the United States under a show of united support in each state. On Saturday, November 21, 2009 between the hours of 10-6p.m., The Write Stuff founder and host Cyrus A. Webb is working with others in scheduling Reading Parties (see http://tinyurl.com/readingparties ) throughout the country geared towards 1) speaking in one voice in support of encouraging reading, 2) supporting local authors and their books and 3) providing a positive outlet that is sometimes overlooked with all the chaos going on in the world around us.

Each Reading Party will be designed for that particular area by that particular area. Webb and his supporters will only act as a means to promote the event and help strategize where their is a need for assistance. During the time frame selected by each Reading Party, there will be booksignings, book discussions or whatever seems appropriate to that host. The events are part of the Art, Books & Beats movement (www.artbooksandbeats.com) which combines the power of visual/literary art, books and music. Those participating will be listed online at http://www.thewritestufftv.com identified by their state along with what type of event they are hosting as well as the time of their event. All Reading Parties are free to the public.

If you are in a position to do so, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign is asking that you bring a new or used book to the event you attend. Book donations will benefit CityKids Foundation, Common Ground Foundation, Everybody Wins, Reading Tree, Adele's Literacy Library and NEA's "Read Across America".

Have questions about this National Day of Reading? Are you an author, book lover, book club or entertainer that would like to coordinate an event in connection with our historic literary event? Contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

All across the world individuals of different backgrounds and interests are uniting to show their support for literacy. For its part The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign has garnered national attention for making sure that no group is left out of this all-important mission. In June 2009 The Write Stuff was joined on the battleground by international recording artists Nappy Roots.

Nappy Roots debut independent album Country Fried Cess was released in 1999, which led to the group being signed by Atlantic Records. Their first album on Atlantic was 2002's biggest selling hip-hop album, "Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz".

"Herschel Dixon (Tour Coordinator for The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign) is responsible for bringing Nappy Roots into our family," says The Write Stuff and Conversations Book Club Founder Cyrus A. Webb, 33. "He was friends with some of the members (attending college with some of them at Western Kentucky University), told them about the project, and they were more than willing to lend their support to a cause that they are also passionate about."

Their next album with Atlantic Records was Wooden Leather, released in 2003, featuring the singles "Roun' the Globe" which was featured on Madden 2004 and "Sick and Tired" (featuring Anthony Hamilton). This critically acclaimed, major label follow up album, "Wooden Leather" featured production from Kanye West, David Banner and Lil Jon.

Since the release of Wooden Leather they are back to being independent artists, and have started their own label, N.R.E.G (Nappy Roots Entertainment Group) with distribution through Fontana/Universal Music Group.

In 2008, the Nappy Roots returned to the spotlight with an internet campaign targeting the mega-popular hip-hop sites to promote their album Humdinger. It entered the Billboard Rap Charts at #7 and R&B/Hip-Hop Albums at #13.

Nappy Roots last toured across the country on the "Pursuit of Nappyness" tour and are working on their next project. They released this statement to The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign about their feelings about reading: "From contracts to lyrics, reading is probably the most important element in this music industry. We are glad to support a cause that gives something back to our fans and helps us become a better world."

To find our more about Nappy Roots, visit http://www.myspace.com/nappyrootsmusic or http://www.twitter.com/nappyroots.

Want to find out more about The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign and what it is doing to encourage reading in your area and beyond? Visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com and http://ce-leb-re-al-a-cy.ning.com. JOIN THE ADDICTION: Get hooked on books!

Continuing its mission to encourage reading and spread its addiction to books around the world, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign is pleased to announce its support of ENWA-Rwanda. ENWA is a not for profit organization that supports Rwanda?s post-genocide reconstruction efforts. The organization contributes to the healing of the country after the traumatic events of 1994 by supporting development initiatives started by women seeking self-reliance and improvement of the welfare of their communities.

ENWA's mission is to empower women to become competitive entrepreneurs through enhancing their potential to start and manage income generating projects. It provides them with business advisory services and develop their entrepreneurial skills.

In 2009, however, ENWA began using its influence to gather reading materials for Rwanda, hosting a book drive that garnered the support and attention of individuals across the world. It was through this endeavor that Cyrus A. Webb, The Write Stuff's Founder and host of Conversations LIVE! Radio, was introduced to Claire Umubyeyi and Delilah Rothenberg.

"The work Claire and Delilah are doing is so incredible and needed," says Webb,34. He received an email from Delilah after she saw a post about The Write Stuff on http://www.blackgivesback.com. "I was glad we could work together, and it became a chain reaction that I hope will further the cause of both of our organizations."

Webb interviewed the ladies on Conversations LIVE! Radio, allowing them to talk about the work they were doing and how the public could get involved. (Listen to the interview by clicking here: http://tobtr.com/s/545839 ) Claire and Delilah released the following statement: "We would like to thank The Write Stuff for their support and publicity of the ENWA-Rwanda book drive. Books are scarce in post-war Rwanda and illiteracy is high. Although Rwanda has been a French speaking country in recent history, the President is taking initiative to promote English as a new common language. Therefore, our assistance sending proper teaching materials will help to prevent Rwandans of all ages from being left behind. The Write Stuff connected us with the very impressive authors, Barbara Worton (Too Tall Alice--- seen above with Umubyeyi) and Stacey Kannenberg (Let's Get Ready series) to help with the drive, as well. Thanks again, Cyrus and team!"

Both organizations continue to need and solicit your support. For more information about The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign visit www.thewritestufftv.com or contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com.

For more information about ENWA, visit http://www.enwa-rwanda.org, contact Claire Umubyeyi at 646.552.1037 or cu.tessy@gmail.com .

Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce that Comedian/Community Leader Ced Delaney has joined The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign. "It's great to have those from so many backgrounds joining our coalition," says Cyrus A. Webb, Founder of The Write Stuff. Delaney was introduced to the project by Production Consultant Herschel Dixon, and was excited to come on board.

"Ced realizes the importance of giving back," says Dixon, "and he is always looking for ways to use his celebrity to make a difference."

The resume of Ced Delaney is an impressive one. He has performed in cities across America as well as Europe, and has hosted tours with the best of the best in comedy including Rickey Smiley, Cedric The Entertainer, Steve Harvey, and Dave Chappelle.

Delaney has also been co-host of several radio morning shows and is a regular guest on BET's Comic View while hosting monthly comedy nights at Workplay called The Ced Delaney COMedy Nite, and Tickle Tuesdays at Comedy Club Stardome. In addition to his professional life, he is also devoted to giving back to the community, beginning the Be A Man Foundation, a mentoring program for teen males to help them become better men and productive citizens. The organization tackles areas of literacy, self worth, and community involvement. In addition to his work with the Be A Man Foundation, Ced is also very active with the Big Brothers program.

 "Reading is everything," says Ced. "If you can't read, you can't function. How can you get where you're going without reading?" The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign couldn't agree more.

The official website for The Write Stuff is http://www.thewritestufftv.com. To find out more information on Ced Delaney, visit http://www.ceddelaney.com. To see how you can get involved in the work of The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign, contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or Herschel Dixon at 502.994.7852.

Through The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign, Shadow Play Entertainment has been privileged to work with individuals across the world when it comes to promoting literacy and the importance of reading, and thanks to one of its most visible spokespersons, that group continues to grow. Derrick Hargrove (aka Tyger), known to many from MTV's 50 CENT: The Money & The Power, introduced Shadow Play's President, Cyrus A. Webb, to its newest supporter, Ryan Kessman. At the age of 19, Kessman is no stranger to the public eye, having had roles in the film 2012 and television series Without A Trace, My Name Is Earl, The Unit, Ghost Whisperer and most recently MTV's reality show Bully Beat Down. A California native, he is using his celebrity and name recognition to bring attention to causes that matter to him, including literacy.
Kessman took a few minutes to discuss his life and support of The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign with Webb in this exclusive interview.

How long have you been interested in the entertainment industry?

I have been interested in the entertainment industry since the early age of 5.

Is it something that your family has always supported?

Yes, entertainment has always been a strongly supported industry in my family.

Looking at the actors that are out there, who do you look to as models to follow?

I would say i like to follow the most Vin Diesel and Jason Statham.

Your time in the industry has been short but successful. What do you attribute it to?

My willingness and desire to succeed.

Being so young, do you feel as though you are missing out on anything by spending so much time pursuing a career?

No, i don't feel like i am missing out on anything because this is the career i have always wanted to do since i was little.

For those who are out there looking to make it as an actor or in any form of the entertainment industry, what would you tell them?

Continue to follow your dreams as there will be obstacles to overcome.

With life comes disappointment. What has been the biggest disappointment for you so far and how did you overcome it?

My biggest disappointment so far in life is accepting a full ride football scholarship to BYU only to find out the school wasn't what I had expected. I overcame this obstacle by perusing another life long dream of the entrainment business.

Thank you, Ryan, for joining us in combatting illiteracy through The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign. Reading is something that is very important to our supporters. Why do you feel as though reading is something that more people of all ages should do?

When you can read and understand you have tackled a large portion of obstacles in life.

What is next for you?

I pitched to MTV mine and Tyger's (aka Derrick Hargrove from MTV's 50 Cent: The Money & The Power) idea of them to sponsor us to go to schools and lecture on the aspect of bullying in schools. Suicide are ramped in schools districts and most of it is from bullying.

If our readers want to find out more about you, where can they find you online?

Google Ryan Kessman or on Myspace.

It is one of the most powerful lists that Conversations Book Club puts together each year. The books that make the list are from authors and genres that book club President Cyrus A. Webb have personally read and has put his stamp of approval upon. Now as the first issue in 2009 of Conversations Magazine prepares to be released, the book club is pleased to unveil those who make up the

"Top 20 Summer Reads" of 2009! Listed in no particular order, here are the books and their authors who Conversations Book Club and its 10 chapters feel should be on your "Must Have" list as you make your summer plans:

* "The Chemist" by Janson Mancheski

* "The Fox" by Arlene Radasky

* "The Magic Bullet" by Andrew Neiderman

* "A Voice Behind Thunder" by Carrie Elizabeth Greene

* "The Green Eyed Butterfly" by Kifany Dugger

* "Make Me Whole" by Roishina Clay Henderson

* "Traitor" by Mark Eller

* "Jena's Choice" by Beverly J. Scott

* "Abramo's Gift" by Donald Greco

* "Dead Wreckoning" by Sylvia Dickey Smith

* "When Lightning Strikes" by Keya

* "The Happiness Factor" by Kirk Wilkinson

* "My Heart Has Wings" by Kris King

* "We'll Always Be Pals" by Tom McManus

* "The Smartest Way to Save" by Samuel K. Freshman & Heidi E. Clingen

* "The Marquise Hill Story" by Sherry Hill

* "Children of Abraham" by R. H. Martin

* "It's All Love" by Marita Golden

* "Lotto" by Joe McDonald

* "Another Life" by Andrew Vachss

 Cyrus A. Webb and Conversations Book Club encourages you to visit these authors online and find out for yourself why these books are so impressive. Look for additional information about the authors to be coming from http://www.thebestbookclub.info.

When looking for examples of those who are talking the talk and walking the walk when it comes to their dreams, they don't get any more real than Tray Chaney. He has been used to the public eye since he was a young boy, and now with feature films, a budding music career, an autobiography and a celebrated role on HBO's The Wire under his belt, the future just continues to look brighter. Tray took out time out of his busy schedule to talk about his evolution as a man and entertainer, and why he is supporting projects like The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign in an effort to give back to those who are looking for something better in their lives. Here is our conversation.

Tray, thanks for taking out the time to talk with us. You have achieved so much in your life from an early age. Are you surprised at how quickly things have come your way?   

Well, I feel as though I really put in alot of hard work, time and effort throughout the years. I been in the entertainment industry since I was 8yrs old.  To be able to get recognized through out the world for some of my achievements such as starring on one of the biggest shows that ever hit television (The Wire) portraying the character "Poot"  and also having an inspirational Book out titled The Truth You Can't beTRAY" is defitnely a blessing from God. The only reason I am not all that surprised at how quickly things have come my way is because I am a firm believer in God, and I work very hard and take this job serious and thats what it takes to achieve goals.

Take us back to Tray Chaney as a child. Did you always know you were going to achieve big things?

Well I did have a strong support system behind me such as my parents, family members, the community. When individuals see that a child has something that he or she is trying to do on a positive note usually you can get that strong support. I always dreamed about achieving Big things, and its defitnely nothing wrong with dreaming.  I still dream, so to answer your question YES I did feel like one day I will become successful the older and more mature I get.

What about your family? It seems like from the video on your website www.traychaney.com that your family has been supportive of your dream from the beginning. Has that always been the case?

Yes that has defitnely been the case. I am truly blessed to have the parent I have. My parents always taught me to be humble at the same time determined to achieve my goals in life. They also taught me that education has to be taken very serious if I was going to be pursuing a Career in the entertainment industry PERIOD. They were very Firm when it came down to getting my education. They have truly provided for me as well as Supported.

You have gone from performing on television at the Apollo to being on HBO's The Wire. What would you tell those who want to enter the entertainment industry about your experience that could help them?

 Honestly I would tell them to never take the word NO as an answer.  Study your craft. Studying your craft could mean furthering your education on what it is that you are pursuing by taking Classes, just really staying humble and devoting your time as well as energy. Dont ever get discouraged because once that happens that can really throw your focus off and you defitnely dont want that to happen. Always realize this business is Tough, so you have to stay Strong.

We all have role models that we look up to or emulate. Who has that been for you, and how does it feel to now be a role model for others.

I really look up to Don Cheadle Not just for his great acting but because of the things he does outside of acting as far as his community affairs. This Man is really concerned about worldwide issues. I have a deep respect for Don Cheadle. Its so many role models that I look up to. I put it this way, anyone that is bringing positive energy to the world I look up to them. For me to be someone's role model is amazing.  I just feel if I continue to stay positive and inspire the world, other individuals that look up to me will follow the same path.

On top of everything else you are doing, Tray, you are also a published author. Tell us about the book The Truth You Can't BeTray and what led you to write it?

"The Truth You Cant beTRAY" is my self published Book. Its my autobiography. The book takes my readers on a journey of how I started in the entertainment industry. Trials and Tribulations I had to face. Its an Inspirational/Motivating Tool for Individuals to strive for there dreams.  The book has No Profanity/Cursing what so ever. I wrote the book as if I was having a conversation with someone. Its nothing technical about the book at all. What led me to write it was its not hard to see we live in a world where people have no morals. Its so much crime, violence, and negative issues going on.  I dont feel like I can save the world but at the same time I just wanted to put something positive out to show individuals that they can have a positve side to them.  The book is available at www.amazon.com using the keywords Tray Chaney..

What do you hope people learn about you from the book, and who do you think would best benefit from reading it?

I want people to learn that no matter what you can overcome trials and tribulations.  Strive for your Dreams. Its certain choices we all have to make as human beings. I feel anyone no matter what age you are can relate. Its hard to say who it would benefit. I have young people from the early age of 8yrs old telling me they love the book. Then I turn around and a 60yr old person says that the book helped them to appreciate certain things that are in the the book. That was my point in writing it for all ages...I wanted everyone to be able to relate to something.

Reading is something that does not get alot of attention. In fact you and I met because of our literacy campaign called The Write Stuff. What do you think we can do to encourage more young people and even adults to read?

To encourage young people as well as adults to read we have to find a way to capture there interest.  Really dig deep down into what it is they are interested in and provide it for them.  I was even thinking setting up programs/seminars with different topics to read about whether it be entertainment, sports, health conditions, learning how to cope with different worldwide issuses.  We really have to capture there interest.

Can you tell us what is next for you? 

I am in the process of turning my book "The Truth You Can't beTRAY" into a film. I am giving anyone that purchases the book at www.amazon.com a chance to audition for the film.  I am self-published so I can make those type of decisions. I have a movie that just came out in stores (Walmart, Target, Blockbuster, etc) called "What We Do" starring myself, Freeway, Young Gunz, Omillio Sparks, E-ness.  Its directed By Tron Anderson..I am currently shooting a film called "The  Conversations" directed by my hometown friend from Washington,DC Frank Jackson. I am also currently in the studio working on my new album "Jack of all Trays"  I have 2 singles from The album that me and my team are pushing called 'Dilemma' feat Jazz of Druhill  and My International/Rythmic Record called 'Baby Lets Go' feat G-Mann w/ Cherri. You can find both of the records on my blog  www.traychaneyblog.tumblr.com  or Youtube  I am all over the internet.

Thanks again, Tray, for your time. If our readers want to find out more information about you and your projects, where can they find you online?

My site is www.traychaneyblog.tumblr.com. You can also look me up at www.twitter.com/traychaney and Facebook. I am here for my people/fans.

The Creator of The Write Stuff Reality Show came across his short film while watching videos on Youtube, but it was only a matter of time before the talent of 19-year old Tom Sands surfaced. Living in the United Kingdom, he has produced several films and is making a name for himself, allowing inspiration to be his guide. Tom Sands has now joined Shadow Play Entertainment in promoting reading and The Write Stuff literacy campaign. Name: Tom Sands

Age: 19

Hometown: Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, UK

How long have you been involved in filmmaking? I have been making short films since I was 15. I have made over 25 now and I'm happy with about three of them! I have also written screenplays, and have recently signed with a London agency as a writer. I have done my bit as a runner and an assistant and hated it, as I'm sure everyone does.

How did the idea for the short film The Write Stuff come about? The central idea of the film is that writing is hard. It is not as easy as many people think. I know this now! Most of the time it requires severe emotional strain, significant catharsis, and a great deal of frustration. I wanted to show this side of creativity but show that if one relaxes, if one feels those feelings, the result can often be inspiration. (See the video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5mx_YsjJfg.)

Reading is something that is not pushed as much as going to the movies or buying the hottest music. How do you think we can go about encouraging more people to open a book? I think one of the main problems is the fact that everyone knows when a blockbuster is released. Few are made aware of the latest bestseller. Distributors push and push films and music. People must be made aware of a new title, and actively encouraged to pick it up.

What do you hope people get from your work as a filmmaker? Inspiration. As for Shadow Play Entertainment's project The Write Stuff, what do you hope it achieves? I hope that The Write Stuff makes writers realise the scope and the breadth of readers out there. I hope it allows the two to connect with each other and further the artform. What is next for you? I'm concentrating on two more screenplays and a new short film to be shot on 16mm. PLans to shoot a feature film next year are also in place.

How can people find out more about you online? You can see me at vimeo (vimeo.com/tomsands).

To see Tom's endorsement of The Write Stuff, visit this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpN7MCN8mVM

Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce that Promoter Larry Washington has joined The Write Stuff Reality Show as Asst. Music Producer and Asst. Events Promoter for the project.
"Washington, who is the President of 1 Flo Entertainment, has an ear for music and a true eye for talent," says Stanley Clark, one of the producers for The Write Stuff. He has worked with Larry over the years and introduced him to the Executive Producer to see how they could bring his talent to the project. "We are glad to have someone like him working with us."

As Asst. Music Producer for The Write Stuff, Larry will work with the producers in selecting the music for the show as well as help in the assembling of The Write Stuff soundtrack that will be released this summer. In addition to this role, look for him to be instrumental in The Write Stuff tour that will help promote the show beginning in late May 2009. To find out more information about Larry and the work he is doing, visit http://www.myspace.com/1floent or call 1.662.891.7983.

To find out about others involved with The Write Stuff or the overall project, visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com.