When your book is optioned for a movie, and when the film receives critical acclaim and Oscar nods, most authors arguably assume that they’ve reached the mountaintop. So when that sequence happened this year with the release of “Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire,” the writer used the exposure as a platform to continue a discussion of the dirty secrets that few discuss.

SAPPHIRE

There are some in the Black community who condemn the film’s brutal depiction of urban reality that revolved around an abused illiterate obese incest survivor teen, and claim that the movie panders to stereotype and rekindles the light-skinned vs. dark-skinned chasm that still simmers among some African-Americans.

This week I visited the American Legion Post #5 in East Liberty, Kenny’s Place in the Hill District, Club Illusionz in the Strip District, Tim’s Lounge in the Hill District, The Red Onion in the Hill District, CJ’s in the Strip District, The Shadow Lounge in East Liberty and Club Heat in the Strip District.

My first stop was at the American Legion Post #5 where Karen Lane celebrated her birthday with family and friends. The food was great and the music had everyone on the dance floor.

All the ladies came out to show Club Heat much love in the Strip District.

(NNPA)—Dear Gwendolyn:

I am becoming more and more depressed. This is the problem: About 20+ years ago my mother became terminally ill. She and my father had worked hard and received minimal wages, but did a lot with what they made. Upon her deathbed she asked me to promise her that I would oversee the family home and not let it be lost due to property taxes.

Thursday 1

Jazz jam

CJ’s Restaurant & Lounge presents “The Roger Humphries & RH Factor Jazz Jam Session” at 8 p.m. at 2901-2911 Penn Ave., Strip District. There will be live jazz and fun every Thursday night. Must be 30 years or older and there is a dress code that will be enforced. No tennis shoes, sweats or athletic gear. For more information, call 412-642-2377.