Letter from the Editor - Summer 2021

 Hello Cafe'ers

Happy summer everyone.  

Hope everyone is doing well.   We have a great issue full of interviews and artwork.  

As always, send in submissions to holidaycafe.nicole@gmail.com thank you.  Check out our Facebook group page too, if you get a minute.

I am looking for artists, illustrators, editors, authors, publishers, etc to interview for my YouTube channel... if you are interested, email me holidaycafe.nicole@gmail.com ... The first interview is up, check out the article in this edition of the Cafe to see the interview of Angele Ellis.

Wishing everyone continued good health, stay safe

Nicole

The Holiday Cafe

Gene Stovall - Musician

Photo Credit: Arabella Stanescu in Düsseldorf, Germany; Fall 2020

Gene Stovall, a breath of fresh air in the world of art. If I had to compare my brain to anything it would be a computer that has a trillion browsers open all day and every day. It’s refreshing talking to Gene because he is focused on what he wants. He knows what he wants, detail-oriented and passionate about his craft. 

Gene writes and records music, is an instrumentalist as well as a vocalist, and works the theatrical stage.

1.) Where does your passion for music stem from?

My passion for music comes from being exposed to vibrant pop music since I was a small child... especially channels like MTV, BET, and The BOX (also known as The Jukebox Network and later becoming MTV 2). 

2.) Who are your biggest musical influences?

My biggest musical influences are (in no order) Prince, Stevie Wonder, Kurt Cobain, Nirvana, Sarah Vaughan, Frank Sinatra, Bob Marley, MF Doom, Jodeci, Teddy Riley, Aaron Hall, The Talking Heads, Mint Condition, Carol King, Dilla, A Tribe Called Quest, Stone Temple Pilots, and Wu Tang Clan. 

3.) Describe the difference between the Pittsburgh music scene and in Germany (where you have taken residency).

It's hard to describe the differences between the music scenes in both Pittsburgh, PA and Cologne, Germany. We’re in lockdown here, so many of the bars and clubs are closed for good. The music scene is online right now, so you can do it from any and everywhere that gets a signal. 

4.) What are your thoughts on streaming music versus physical copies?

Good question. I love the idea and act of streaming music because I can play whatever I wanna hear whenever I want to hear it. Streaming is an awesome thing. But, I’m actually from the time of cassette tapes. I used to have somewhere between 10 to 15 tapes in my book bag at any given time. If the tapes were loose in the bag or out of the cases, they would get damaged and often times would stop playing. Portable CD players were expensive back then, but I found a way to get one. Then, I was all about CDs but the same things would happen to the CD packaging in my bag. 

I loved the artwork that came with all of my purchases of tapes, CDs, and vinyl records. I buy vinyl every now and then, and will play the records all the way through while examining the album covers and packaging the comes with the vinyl. My first physical copy of any sort of recorded music was the vinyl album ‘Ice Cream Castles’ by Morris Day and The Time;  which served as a second soundtrack to the movie ‘Purple Rain’ with Prince, Apollonia, and his band The Revolution. My mom got me the ‘Purple Rain’ tape a week or two later. 

5.) Besides music is there any other artistic interest that you enjoy?

I try my hand at all types of art related projects. I figure since we all only live once, I would like to experience as much as I can of what this life has to offer. My dream is to finish a screenplay that I started writing in 2008 and actually produce it for all to see. I would direct it as well, but I wouldn’t be a star in the film. In my mind, I’m a great actor but in real life I’m not so good at all. Haha. 

6.) If you were able to collaborate with one person who would it be and why?

This is another good question that makes me wanna have a proper sit down in a very comfortable chair and think for a moment about how best to answer this question. Here goes..

I would collaborate with filmmaker Wes Anderson in the same way that Owen Wilson did on the first three Wes Anderson films. If I could choose someone who has passed on, I would want to collaborate with playwright August Wilson. I do have a TOP 5, but we can visit that at another time. 

7.) What are your latest projects you are working on?

PROJECTS I HAVE IN THE WORKS:

Geenpool Music:

I have a 20 track album coming in late June of 2021 called ‘AHA’, or ‘AcuteHyperActivity’ that will feature a mix of previously released Geenpool singles and new recordings from my very own Stovallian Studios, located in Cologne, Germany. 

Alien Facez:

I write, perform, and produce music for an Alternative Hip Hop group called Alien Facez. We mix genres and experiment with soundscapes as we develop our customized Hip Hop sound. 

DapDum Eurozone Music Magazine:

I partnered with Dap Dum Productions and Publishing to create a page that functions as an online magazine that supports the development of the upcoming singer/songwriters and overall underground recording artists that I’m finding on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, SubmitHub, and Instagram. I write my music reviews as ‘Geno Penman’ just so I can differentiate between my personas. 

Pullover Rivers Radio Program:

I started a radio show on 674.fm, an internet radio station located in Cologne, Germany. It’s called the Pullover Rivers Radio Program and I produce and host it; with help from my moderator, Céline Rudelle.

For more information on Gene please check out the information below:

 

OFFICIAL WEBSITE:

 

https://www.geenpool.com/

 

BANDCAMP:

 

https://genestovall.bandcamp.com/

 

GEENPOOL SPOTIFY:

 

https://open.spotify.com/artist/48xtC4bpxnEks76dyzfCpu?si=U37Qf4NzTu-_qUNhDWB3Qg

 

GENE STOVALL SPOTIFY:

 

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5W9sSFH4w0bRDzyG4iEzae?si=MbbsN1wNTKactHVFYwvYOg

 

Geenpool Music (GeneStovallTV) YouTube:

 

https://youtube.com/user/GeneStovallTV

 

 

GEENPOOL FACEBOOK:

https://www.facebook.com/geenpool.fanpage/

 

INSTAGRAM:

 

geenpool_music dapdum_eurozone pullover_rivers_radio_program

 

Natalie Belin is the author of The Many Colors of Natalie, a book of poetry.  She holds an associates degree in Specialized Technology Le Cordon Bleu Pastry Arts and in her spare time is an artist and percussionist.

Carylee Carrington

I have had the pleasure of chatting with Carylee via Zoom recently and I just had to interview her.  She is such a positive person and I just love what she is doing with Read with Carylee... 

1.        Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m Carylee Carrington, author, entrepreneur and literacy advocate. I live in Northern Virginia with my two amazing boys, where I enjoy an active lifestyle. Originally from the island of Jamaica, I grew up in New York City, before making Northern Virginia my home. I am, to some, known as the “accidental author,” because this was not where I thought my path would lead. Though I love writing, being a children’s author was the furthest thing from my mind.

In addition to my authorship, I am also an enormous supporter and advocate for the arts. I have visited schools in Virginia and Georgia, encouraging the love of reading and the art of writing as well as self-publishing. I have also expanded my love for sharing books to other media platforms such as YouTube. In 2019, I created the show, Read With Carylee, where I introduce my audience to children’s book authors, who share their books in their own voice. This helps me to continue to bring positive inspirational books to children, encouraging them to believe in their dreams and be the best version of themselves. It is my hope to continue to promote these positive messages, so that our children may grow to be strong individuals and lead the charge for a kinder and more loving future.

2.       How did “Read with Carylee” begin?

Read With Carylee started after I saw how children reacted to meeting me on author visits. I loved

seeing how they lit up, knowing that I wrote the book that was read to them. I wanted children to have the experience of hearing the book from the authors. I feel that is a great experience.

3.       Tell our readers what “Read with Carylee” is

For those who grew up with Reading Rainbow, Read With Carylee is an adaptation of that. It is a show that encourages the love of reading and helps children connect with authors. 

One of the major factors that I promote is diversity in children's literature. The authors who appear on Read With Carylee are from all cultures and backgrounds. They write books for the children around them. We get to learn about different cultures, children with varying abilities and embrace the differences of others.

4.       How many authors have you had on your show, and does anyone stand out?

I have had over 90 authors on the show. We are actually nearing our 100th episode and we have so many more great authors to come. 

I couldn't choose just one author, they are all great in their own way. They have the passion and drive for children's literature and they are giving back to the community at large. They are all great.

5.       What has been your favorite experience so far with “Read with Carylee”?

My favorite experience so far has been connecting with authors from all around the world. When I started the show, I never thought I would be connecting with authors from as far as Australia. That has been amazing.

6.     Have you had to deal with any impossible guest readers?  How did/do you handle that?

I haven't had to deal with anyone impossible. Every author has their own style. There are some that are super energetic and there are some who are shy. Just like their books, the personalities vary and I believe that is also a great lesson for children; there is not just one type of author and hopefully the audience will be able to see themselves in an author as well.

7.       Where can our readers find you (social media links)?

Readers may reach me at Instagram.com/readwithcarylee, Facebook.com/readwithcarylee, Twitter.com/readwithcarylee and readwithcarylee.com 

Nicole Leckenby is the co-founder/editor of The Holiday Café. She works full-time at the University of Pittsburgh and she has two amazing boys that keep her busy, along with a whole host of other things.  Check out her website .

Kaylyn Sheller - Artist

Kaylyn Scheller is a middle school visual arts teacher and musical director for the Lower Burrell School District and a professional photographer and designer for her business, Constellations & Co. A graduate of Mercyhurst University with an Art Education degree and Dance Performance minor, Kaylyn centers her life on the arts in every aspect, especially teaching the next generation. In the off months between school years, she enjoys pursuing freelance projects and maintains her own creative outlet through her business, adding new visual works and documenting lifestyle-inspired, natural portraits for families and fellow artists. 

Website: www.constellationsandcompany.com

Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/constellationsnco

Instagram: @constellationsandcompany

Facebook: @constellationsandcompany

YouTube - Interviews

 Hi Everyone 

I am doing something new and fun... I am interviewing authors, editors, illustrators, anyone that has anything to do with this sort of thing...

You can find my first interview on my YouTube channel - thank you Angele Ellis for being the first interview.  I was nervous how this would turn out being the first and I think it went well.

If you want to get interviewed - Let me know, email me at holidaycafe.nicole@gmail.com

Luke Weltz Band

 1. Tell us a little about Luke Weltz Band...

- The Luke Weltz band is a Folk rock, Indie, Soul, and Blues band from

Western Pa. Luke Weltz founded the band August of 2020 shortly after beginning his

first album back in May of 2020. The band has a great amount of energy and can really

grasp an audience. They do some covers but their knockout punch as a band is their

original material. “Florina” is the title of the debut record that was done at Apple Eye

Studio. Sean Rugh (Sound engineer/ drummer) owns his own private studio with his wife

Brandie Servello in Slickville, Pennsylvania. He has also helped produce some of the

works off this upcoming 15 track LP. The album has a mix of songs and each song has a

different vibe. The music seems to relate across the spectrum of human emotions.

Luke Weltz has been a pianist for 19 years and also plays bass in the band.

The Luke Weltz Band is currently performing shows around Western, Pa. You can find

them on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

2. What kind of music do you play?

- The music ranges from Folk rock to Soul and Blues. The original content is

driven by Blues and Soul with some Folk rock and a 90’s touch. . It’s hard to say which

genre the Luke Weltz Band Falls into. Covers include ones from Eric Clapton, Bad

Company, Audioslave, Tom Petty, Elton John, and more.

3. Where did your love of music come from?

- I began playing music when I was 8 years old. My love came from watching my

grandmother play. She was an organist and member of the church choir. I could see the relief and

joy she would get from playing music and I wanted to experience those emotions. Since then I

have developed a great bond with music and how it makes me feel. I was lucky to have someone

in my family who played music. It inspired me to pursue music going forward.

4. Where can we find you perform?

- I perform regularly around Western, PA. I also perform solo and duo acoustic

shows. Here are some upcoming show dates with the band.

July 2nd: The Luke Weltz Band @ 1700 Penn Ave in Pittsburgh, PA

August 1st: The Luke Weltz Band @ Bella Terra Vineyards in Hunker, PA

September 25th: The Luke Weltz Band @ E- Train Music Festival in Homer City,

PA

For more dates Visit Lukeweltz.com

5. Where can we get your music from?

- Once the record is available people can find it on Apple Music, Spotify, Sound Cloud,

and other streaming services.

6. Words of wisdom to future musicians?

- I would say get through the years where you are going to have failure and make

mistakes. It’s miserable. It’s not fun but it is necessary for your development as an

artist. Also accept who you are. With a very distracting world out there it can be

easy to forget why you’re doing what you’re doing. Developing purpose, passion,

mental fortitude, determination, and humility will help you tremendously.

I would also say take care of your body. Don’t let the night life take years off your

health. Get into your health. The physical stress will help you manage mental

stress with time. I couldn’t tell you how many musician I’ve seen that are

tremendous on stage but also like alcohol, bad food, and other things associated

with inflammation. You control it so it should be easy. Right?

7. Social Media links... where can we find you on the internet?

- You can visit my website and hop onto our email list at:

Lukeweltz.com

You can also find Luke’s Podcast Channel “ Worst Case Podcast” here:  

Links: 

Band Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LukeWeltzBand/ 

Band Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukeweltzband/?hl=en 

Luke Weltz Music: https://www.facebook.com/WeltzProductions/ 

Apple Eye Studio: https://www.facebook.com/soundsource2020/ 

YouTube Page:  https://www.facebook.com/soundsource2020/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lukeweltzband

Musings for Moms - Summertime

I am warning everyone, this post goes over a lot of random topics, but it is all stuff that has been on my mind.... 

We survived this crazy school year and we are in the middle of summer vacation.  Ever since my oldest was in kindergarten, I started the tradition of taking him for a movie on the last day of school. It was always an adventure...  When my youngest started kindergarten we took him along too... then COVID came around, no movies for the end of school in 2020.  Instead we rented or is it downloading, whatever, a movie and watched it at home with ALL THE SNACKS.  This year, we delayed the last day of school movie as there wasn't anything particular that we wanted to see in the theaters and I feel over the last year and quarter we have watched all the movies Netflix, Amazon Prime and all the other services have to offer.  We are going to go soon.  Does anyone else do last day of school things that have become traditions?  

Speaking of all the snacks, the snacks were not so kind... I gained a few pounds from those snacks and just generally not wanting to move... I started moving again a few weeks before school let out.  I started to jump rope while waiting outside for my kids buses to come.  Every day I increased the number of rotations I would jump.  It was a rough start... gah I was so out of shape.  I take a day off here and there, because I am not a machine, ha!  I have lost a few of those snack pounds I had gained and I generally am enjoying the workouts... 

I was trying to figure out a way to segway this next topic on my noggin into the post nicely - and I can't think of a smooth transition from workouts to swim suits... 

Last summer I would pack-up my laptop, get my boys and drive over to my in-laws who have a swimming pool.  I would work poolside while they would swim, when I logged off for the day, I would sometimes join them or other times we would go home and figure out what to make for dinner.  I noticed that some of my bathing suits were triggering migraines... I know what you are thinking - HOW is that possible?  For the past several years I have gotten migraines here and there and have been given special medications for them.  The thicker halter top strings would lie on my neck in just a bad position I suppose that would cause a migraine if I wore the suit too long.  

This year I wasn't going to put up with that nonsense.  I was on a mission, albeit a little difficult of one.  Stores still had their fitting rooms closed and with those extra pounds I had from ALL THE SNACKS I was a little nervous about fitting into untried on suits.  Anyway, I started my searches on Amazon.  I started a list of the ones I thought I would like, which was difficult.  I like a 2-piece, mid or high waisted.  No need to show off the c-section scars and whatnot... I am particular (I know, this is a shock to some of you).  

I feel like the swimsuit industry has changed so much in the last few years and not for the better.  I feel like there are two categories of bathing suits out there and if you aren't in your 20's or 60's you are out of luck.  Not everyone is built with the same body type... and sure there are a few options out there - but man if I was capable of manufacturing a swimsuit... 

Why is it so hard to find a bikini top that doesn't show side-boob or under-boob.  I want to be able to lift my arms and not have anything fall out. I want more than a strip to cover the girls.  And I want a clasp that is adjustable and doesn't just willy-nilly pop open.  And don't even get me started on bottoms... I didn't realize thongs were a thing in the county I live in... sure you will see them at the beaches (and when I was little it was only certain beaches that they were on) but never at the public pools.  I saw at least 3 of them at the wave pool the other day... well two were definitely thongs the other was not but she was wearing it as such.  Hey and if you have the bottom to wear that and the confidence - good for you, I have neither of those... I also have those two boys and neither of them needs to see that much of their moms behind.  

I love the look of the tankinis but those - I have tried a few and everyone I had issues with... the tops would either be too tight and rollup or too loose and just not do what it is supposed to do... which is hide all the stuff I don't want people to see... 

Men have it so much easier - the husband ordered a few suits and he is good to go... I am researching comments and everything else before I add to my cart and purchase... 

Oh well... 

Enjoy your summer!!

Nicole Leckenby is the co-founder/editor of The Holiday Café. She works full-time at the University of Pittsburgh and she has two amazing boys that keep her busy, along with a whole host of other things.  Check out her website .