Lavarious A. Slaughter is the Gospel industries next big producer of Gospel Stage plays. Lavarious is set to debut his first national stage play on September 30th in Orlando, Florida. Lavarious will then take the stage play on a national tour across the nation. Lavarious has generated quite a buzz for the productions debut, previewing parts of the play in local churches. No producer since Tyler Perry has been able to generate the type of laugh on the spot success that Lavarious' play forces. The Play "You Better Be Glad I'm Saved" has an impressive list of talent, which also features Latisha Pickett (winner of Vicki Winans Shining Star Contest).

Lavarious is finding great success targeting his themes to reach the audience it most affects. In the film industry movies with religious themes, are often turned away. In comparison, the theater industry is often able to slide under the yellow tape that guards these seemingly sensitive topics. The word of mouth advertisement that pursues oftentimes is enough to pack out performing arts centers across the country. The Tony Awards, (the industries highest honor of recommendation) aired recently. The reported ratings were the lowest since 1992; an eye opener for many industry execs that now see the for-mentioned trend as an option for investment. Slaughter House Productions is one of the faith based production companies, seizing the opportunity to spread a positive message off the mainstream Broadway. Founder/Producer Lavarious Slaughter opens his motivating stage play “You Better Be Glad I’m Saved” on September 30th in Orlando, FL. His hope is to steer the eyes of viewers to real life predicaments that can be solved through the proper guidance. Says Slaughter, “Our goal is to reach out and change the peoples outlook on life through spreading the word of Jesus Christ.”

“You Better Be Glad I’m Saved,” stars a character named JUN BUG who is habitually drawn to making life harder on himself. Dis-guarded by his mother after a string of bad behaviors done to above all his family. She recommends that he move in with his grand parents. JUN BUG seems to take all the worldly turns, when GRANDMA SWEENY and PAPS become the inspirational force needed to turn things around in JUN BUG’s life. It doesn’t happen easily as the production puts you through a laugh out loud roll-a-coaster, showcasing the family’s personalities. “You Better Be Glad I’m Saved,” has a highly anticipated opening night on September 30, 2007. At the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center in Orlando, Florida. Show starts at 7:30pm. For information on bringing the play to your city or church, call the number listed below.

Location:
Bob Carr Performing Arts Center
401 W. Livingston St.
Orlando, FL 32801

Date: September 30, 2007
Time: 7:30pm
Office Phone: 407-375-5198

Site: www.lavariousonline.com
Tickets Available at www.ticketmaster.com

Tonex's Written Apology

To our Presiding Bishop, Horace D. Smith To my own Bishop in California Henry Johnson and in the the Loving memory and honor of the Late Great Bishop R.W. Mc Murray, Bishop Charles L. Taylor and My Father District Elder A.C. Williams Sr. I would like to say Praise the Lord.

I am writing on this Myspace Page of my organization to say that due to the high volume of controversy around the world concerning my recent but distant decisions, I would like to submit my deepest regret for any shame that this may have caused my Bishops and or Body Members.

This was not meant to bring a reproach, but it was meant to bring closure to one of the darkest chapters of my life from whence I came out alive, thank God.

I would like to publically apologize for any action deed or word that may have caused breach, embarrassment, or shame to the legacy of our great organization P.A.W. and to any other Denominations that have done their best to support me even if they didn't understand me.

I justify nothing, but I repent for anything that may have caused some to stumble. Indeed, I did tell the "Naked" truth but the bible also does state that "all things are lawful but not expedient."

The world experienced my purging, my therapy session and the release of puss, vomit, anger, and rage that all humans have the propensity to demonstrate — I do not ask a pardon for the Sin, only for the anger and discouragement and resentment that came from years of misappropriated slander toward myself and my family.In other words, things just honestly came to a head and busted.

To every Youth Pastor, to every parent and young person that I hurt or let down, I am truly and deeply remorsed if I caused you pain or embarrassment, please forgive me and restore me. My issue was public, so therefore I needed to publically ask for forgiveness. From your understanding of your own private struggles I ask that you at least understand. I'm not asking any of you to agree, just forgive me….I'm truly sorry. However, I'm glad to report that since that song released in June of 2007 I have become a new creature. I have never been so relieved and freed from my past and the future looks very bright ahead.

I'm am currently under the care and counsel of Bishop Norman Wagoner, and locally I'm am covered by District Elder Dwayne Shepherd of Greater Apostolic Faith Temple Church which is my Home church where I came from.

All of these things I submit humbly and respectfully and pray restoration with meekness. If a public rebuke is necessary I'm willing to receive it, but please know in my heart that I know Who Jesus really is. I still teach and preach the apostles' doctrine according to Acts 2:38 and I'm a TOTALLY on fire for Jesus. My mission is clear; unify the body for the edification of the Kingdom. To reach the masses through mainstream media with creativity and a real flow of the unadulterated anointing.

Am I perfect ? no . Will I still make mistakes, most likely. But I am completely and totally striving for excellence through Jesus Christ Our Savior. Anyone that needs to respond feel free to hit me up at www.myspace.com/theofficialtonex

Thank you all for reading this lengthy but imperative open apology.
Sincerely
Anthony C. Williams II

Beverly Crawford's dream to record a live CD in the entertainment capital of the world came true in April.

A fresh start with highly regarded hitmakers JDI Records granted her heart's desire with a live recording at Bishop Kenneth Ulmer's Faithful Central Bible Church.

The result for the multiple Grammy & Dove Award nominee is “Live From Los Angeles” – released on September 4. Featuring the smash hit single “He’s Done Enough,” “Live from Los Angeles” marks the return of one of gospel music’s premier vocalists, after a 3 year hiatus from recording.

Featuring special guest appearances by Ricky Dillard, Edwin Hawkins, er son (T.J.) and daughter (Trina) and Moses Tyson, “Live from Los Angeles” is a package filled with diverse choices.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to record live in Los Angeles, every since the heyday of gospel back with the late great James Cleveland” says Crawford. “So you can’t believe my excitement when God divinely connected my path with LA-based JDI Records and we were able to make my dream come true. My husband Todd & I have been totally immersed the last several years pastoring and building our church in my hometown of Gainesville, FL and had passed on so many recording offers. Likewise, JDI Records wasn’t actively looking to add any more artists to its roster. Yet God, in his infinite wisdom, did a holy hook-up and I am so excited about this project – I believe it’s the best one I’ve ever done!”

Best known for her classic hits “Praise Jehovah,” “Jesus Precious King," and "Marvelous" JDI Records takes Beverly straight to church where the psalmist delivers a string of just-her-size performances. “Live from Los Angeles” captures the true essence and anointing that is Beverly Crawford. Impressed by the song, Los Angeles power station KJLH-FM leaked a listen of "He's Done Enough" (click to listen and win) months before its release.

Considered a “singer’s singer” by her peers, for her amazing ability to deliver both traditional, hard-hitting songs and soft, melodic ballads alike, Ebony Magazine calls Beverly Crawford“… a vocal powerhouse that is one of the truly great voices of our times!”

Produced by Grammy-nominated producer Professor James Roberson & Michael Bereal, “Live from Los Angeles” is literally chock full of hits from beginning to end and the essence of the energy at the recording takes you right there. From the instant church classic “He’s Done Enough”, to the beautiful ballad “I’m Still Standing,” the irresistible groove “God Has Been Good” featuring Ricky Dillard, and the remake of her classic “Praise Jehovah,” “Live from Los Angeles” is simply put, Beverly Crawford at her signature best! Distributed by Sony BMG Red, “Live from Los Angeles” is available on CD, DVD, Songbook and Soundtrack.

Crawford is currently on a 40 city promotional tour in support of “Live from Los Angeles,” making appearances in cities including Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, and her hometown of Gainesville. For a complete listing of tour cities & performance dates for the “He’s Done Enough – Live from Los Angeles tour,” call 213-381-7177.

Marvin Winans, the multi award-winning tenor, chief songwriter and member of Gospel music's most heralded family, takes center stage as he delivers his debut solo album, Alone But Not Alone, which is set to hit stores September 25, 2007.

The first single, "You Just Don't Want to Know," is being featured in the upcoming motion picture film A Good Man is Hard to Find, starring Hill Harper (CSI: NY), Golden Brooks (Girlfriends), R&B singer Deborah Cox, Melissa De Sousa (One on One) and Darrien Dewitt Henson (Stomp the Yard).

Winans came to international fame as the lead singer of The Winans along with brothers Ronald, Carvin and Michael Winans. The Grammy-award quartet revolutionized the way the world viewed gospel music. The Winans scored hit after hit in the 90's with such classics as "Tomorrow," Ain't No Need to Worry" with Anita Baker and "It's Time featuring Teddy Riley.

The 12-track CD features masterful vocals and lyrics that cements Winans' place as a gospel music icon. From the beginning of the first song until the album's end, the project delivers situational, inspirational and faith-inspired messages in a style that builds on Winans' legacy, stepping beyond just the gospel base, but with tunes that are fitting to smooth jazz and quiet storm radio formats as well.

"His voice is like no other. His message is timeless. His ministry is life changing and his music is something the world needs to hear. I love Marvin Winans and you will, too," says CeCe Winans.

Winans joins forces with producer Tommy Sims, who with extensive experience in pop music was able to maintain Winans' trademark crossover style, without compromising his gospel content.

The first single, "You Just Don't Want to Know" is an acoustic guitar driven ballad that has the makings of a universal mantra. Winans sings of a broken marriage and man's responsibility to his fellow man based upon biblical passage taken from the 15th chapter of Romans.

The title cut "Alone But Not Alone," opens with a snippet of the soulful sound of Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues," then subtly transitions into Winans' declaration of his solid relationship with God. On the up-tempo track, a tightly woven-blend of smooth jazz and neo-soul showcases the singer's remarkable vocals. "Alone But Not Alone" is a song of encouragement and affirmation that you should stand on what you believe even when others don't," states Marvin Winans.

Alone But Not Alone offers tunes that are reminiscent of the family quartet, The Winans, as in "My Story," an upbeat collaboration with twin brother Carvin and "He Brought Me Joy," as Winans' brother Ronald appears on what would be his last recording, to testify of God's faithfulness.

Keeping things close to home, the CD will be released on PureSprings Gospel, headed by platinum-selling sister CeCe Winans' label, and distributed by EMI. Check out Winans' My Space page at http://www.myspace.com/marvinwinansmusic.

The marriage of Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Bishop Weeks is over. Bynum told an Atlanta's Fox 5 that last month's alleged attack wasn't the first time the couple has had problems.

Bynum said she loves her husband but she is finished with what she called an abusive marriage. She confessed she thought the routine heated arguments in their marriage were normal initially.

She said she gave her attorney the go-ahead for divorce proceedings last week.

Bishop Weeks is accused of beating Bynum in an Atlanta hotel parking lot on August 21.

Bynum told the station that this wasn't the first time they had a physical altercation but it had never been to this degree – only pushing and shoving. She said he had never physically drawn a fist back and hit her.

Bynum said she will assist prosecutors with the aggravated assault case but she could not pass judgment on whether Weeks should go to jail. She believes he still has redeeming qualities.

She said she doesn't believe her love for her husband will ever die and she thinks she could marry him twice — but this one is over. She said he's a brilliant man and she believes God will get that purpose out of his life.

Bynum said maybe he wasn't meant to be with her and she wishes him the best.

For More of the Fox 5 Broadcast, Copy and Paste Link Below: 

Copy & Paste Link to hear the single "Right Now Praise"

http://www.blackgospelpromo.com/newlifecommunity/RightNowPraise.mp3

Until September 4, Prophetess Juanita Bynum had not publicly spoken about the alleged beating she suffered at the hands of her estranged husband, Bishop Thomas Weeks, III.

The only comment she made was through her publicist, Amy Malone, who said on behalf of Bynum that she wasn't in a fight with Weeks; she was attacked.

On September 4, Bynum's spiritual father, Bishop T.D. Jakes, wrote an OpEd letter to the Atlanta Journal Constitution advising church leaders on dealing with domestic violence and urging Christians to remember the church's job is not a judicial one.

On that same day, Bynum held a press conference at the Intercontinental Hotel in Atlanta's Buckhead section where she told reporters that she represents the urban community on the issue of domestic violence. Later that night, she appeared on the Trinity Broadcasting Network's (TBN) "Praise the Lord" program at 10 p.m. EST.

On TBN Bynum initially mentioned the incident before interviewing gospel singer Tarralyn Ramsey. She said, "…Let me just say this. Let me just set the record straight 'cause I don't know what ya'll looking at … everybody looking at me like I'm supposed to be pitiful or something. You have to understand that when your worse hour comes, you're in your finest hour at the same time."

During her interview with gospel singer DeWayne Woods, she said, " … the minute when I made the decision that I was no longer a victim but an advocate … It's like before he can take you to your next level. It's like he has to kill the whole image. He has to kill the whole look … The minute I said I am going through this for somebody else … that this is not my battle. This is not my warfare. I'm in warfare for women all over the world. My mind changed … I didn't feel embarrassed anymore. I stepped in the purpose."

During the broadcast, a sometime-tearful Bynum went on to say, among other things, that she's not going to be religiously political and that she forgives her husband.

According to published reports, Bynum has said it is too early to say if she'll stay with Weeks. For now, she said she's concentrating on herself.

The video of Juanita's Press conference can be seen at this link. Copy and Paste into Browser: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KglTkkrUIE

Bishop Thomas Weeks faced serious financial trouble leading up to the alleged attack of his wife, televangelist Juanita Bynum, last month in Atlanta, reports the city’s FOX 5 news.

According to the report, the 40-year-old bishop left several unpaid creditors behind when he and his wife moved to Atlanta from Washington, D.C. in 2006 to expand their ministry.

FOX 5 News uncovered court documents that show Weeks led a ministry in D.C. called, Center of Hope Community Development Corporation. Court records reveal a $63,000 judgment against Weeks from copier giant, Xerox Corporation, a $22,000 judgment against Weeks from jewelry store Tiffany and Company, a $13,000 judgment from a credit card company and a $6,000 judgment from Ford Motor Credit.

Combined, Weeks owes more than $100,000 in judgments. Three of the creditors say he has yet to pay the debt.

Family members have confirmed to FOX 5 that Weeks and Bynum began leasing a $2.5 million home with six bedrooms in the St. Marlo golf community in Forsyth County in early 2006. Earlier this summer, a court gave the order to serve an eviction notice. Dispossessory documents dated for June 26, 2007 indicate Weeks owed $54,000 in past due rent at the luxury home, the station reported.

According to the eviction notice issued at the magistrate court in Forsyth County, when deputies went to Weeks' home to serve the eviction notice, Weeks and all of his furniture were gone.

A source familiar with the housing arrangement told FOX 5 News that after Weeks defaulted on the first contract, he made a payment toward the debt and entered into a new contract agreement to buy the high-end home by April of 2008.

Weeks is facing assault charges for allegedly stomping and beating his estranged wife in the parking lot of the Renaissance Hotel, located near the Atlanta airport.

The release of Marvin Sapp's third and latest offering, THIRSTY, has garnered several career "firsts" for the singer. At retail, THIRSTY became Sapp's first ever No. 1 debut on Billboard's Gospel chart. Seven weeks later, the CD is still at #1 – making Sapp the only Gospel artist in 2007 to maintain the number one slot for longer than four weeks.

His runaway hit single "Never Would Have Made It" is Sapp's first and only No. 1 single on the Nielsen BDS Gospel chart. In securing the #1 spot, "Never Would Have Made It" 'jumped five positions on the chart – representing the biggest jump to #1 by any single to date on the BDS Gospel chart. It took "Never Would Have Made It" just under 12 weeks after entering R&R's Gospel Top 30 at No. 25 – the highest debut week of May 28th – to make it to #1. No other single since Kirk Franklin's "Looking For You" in November 2005 has successfully attained such a feat.

"When I first heard "Never Would Have Made It" I knew it was a powerful song and it speaks directly to the hearts of all who hear it, which undoubtedly is why it is performing so well," says James "Jazzy" Jordan, SVP/GM of Zomba Gospel. "Marvin Sapp has one of the most recognizable and magnetic voices in Gospel, and has consistently delivered great music. It is exciting to see him experience this level of success at this point of his career and we are looking forward to THIRSTY being at the top of the charts for many more weeks to come. It isn't going away any time soon."

Marvin Sapp's upcoming television appearances include BET's Bobby Jones Gospel and TV One's Gospel of Music With Jeff Majors. Additionally, Sapp will be performing next Friday, August 31, at The New York Call's "Brother-to-Brother Gathering" where Bishop T.D. Jakes will be the guest speaker.