INFLUENCING THE NEXT GENERATION OF "DIGITAL JOURNALIST"
Varion Walton and Former CNN Correspondent Dan Lothian at EPB Headquarters in Tennessee
(Chattanooga, TN.) --He has one of the most recognized faces in the White House Press Corp.Former CNN Correspondent Dan Lothian sits down with Varion Walton for an in-depth conversation about his tenure at the cable news channel, plus fills us in on what it was like covering three different administrations in the White House.For more information about WALTON AND ASSOCIATES:VISIT:www.waltonandassociates.net
(Atlanta, GA.) Atlanta Dream's Angel McCoughtry is a VISION/VOICE/VARION fan, what about you? Angel McCoughtry is “fiercely feminine,” skilled and a great example of
NEVER giving up on your dreams! #35
Angel McCoughtry is a star athlete with the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream. Angel will
always be our best example that "you can make any DREAM come true, if you
are willing to work hard enough to get it!"
(Mobile, AL.)---Spread the word, tell a friend--Varion Walton is gearing up for another year of "ALL THINGS BAYFEST" and with a line-up that includes The Zac Brown Band, Tamia, Hunter Hayes, The Isley Brothers, T.I., Anthony Hamilton and Tamar Braxton--it's simply GOING TO BE "OFF THE METER!"
Take a minute to watch Varion's Bayfest organizers included in this blog, but also take a minute to
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(MOBILE, AL.)---"Varion, you seem to be everywhere!" If I had a nickel for every time I've heard that phrase I'd be rich. Over the last two years, many of you have watched me do everything, from interview some of the biggest names in the news and entertainment business, to covering some of the most anticipated events of the year like The Stellar Awards, BayFest and The Essence Music Festival.
All of those exclusive interviews and "backstage" coverage was streamed live via The VW Network. The VW Network is the new "go to place" for all of your entertainment and celebrity news....24/7. Check out our facebook page at www.facebook.com/vwnetwork
In addition to working in the entertainment industry, I have been actively involved in mentoring and coaching the next generation of journalists. After 20 years as a proven, award winning journalist, I wanted to use my experience and expertise to groom others.
During those 20 years in the television industry, I've been blessed with the ability to bring my multiple gifts as a reporter, anchor, host, producer and event planner under one umbrella....WALTON AND ASSOCIATES.
Walton and Associates is a 21st century company meeting the needs of new journalists, recording artists and business owners. The services we provide are not "cookie cutter," but are tailored to the individual needs of every client, regardless of your budget.
Me and my partners have nearly 60 years of combined experience in legal, marketing, branding, hosting and producing experience. All of which is the basis of our company's mission: "building relationships."
Please go to FACE BOOK and "LIKE" my NEW official WALTON AND ASSOCIATES page. It is where you can read more on our clients, success stories and testimonials.
(New Orleans, Louisiana)--BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AT ESSENCE 2013--Waking up this morning truly knowing that I am blessed and highly favored. God is amazing and he continues to go over and beyond my expectations with ever new venture. He covers me at every turn. Today I thank him for my health, my family, my friends and yet another season to get it right and make a difference! Here's to 07/07
ESSENCE MUSIC FEST-FIRST EVER "FAMILY REUNION DAY!"
(New Orleans, LA.)--Gina Brown's got a secret, but I'm spilling the beans! That's right, ALL NEW my girl and best friend will be one of the featured artists kicking off the annual ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL in New Orleans. This year event organizers announce the first ever "Family Reunion Day!" Essence Fest 2013 features Beyonce', Charlie Wilson, Maxwell, New Edition-just to name a few. But, before these legendary artists can take center stage, first you'll be rocked out of your seat and dance in the isles with New Orleans' rising star Gina Brown.
Gina Brown, featuring Anutha Level will kick off the "four day music festival July 4th with a day designed with families in mind. The fire works July 4th will not be limited to the skyline of downtown New Orleans, but with some of the best local artists "The Big Easy" has to offer.
It's going to be explosive! Essence Music Fest kicks off July 4th and ends on my birthday July 7th! YES! You know I'm over the moon because I will spend another birthday and another season covering one of my favorite events with one of the hardest working women in the industry, Gina Brown.
Gina Brown- W&A File Photo
If you haven't been, just know there's nothing like ESSENCE FEST! For more than 16 years this annual event has attracted music lovers from all around the world to the Crescent City and Gina Brown is definitely the entertainer to take it from hot to "sizzzlllling!" The addition of the "Family Reunion Day" is a great way to ensure there's something for everyone!
The addition of the "Family Reunion Day" is timely and what's a family reunion without "The Electric Slide, The Cupid Shuffle or The Wobble?" Brace yourself--ALL NEW
The "G-Slide" a critically acclaimed single and line dance that's gaining Brown critical acclaim on the R&B and Southern Soul charts will be just one of the singles this New Orleans based entertainer will perform live. "G's Spot" has been climbing the blues charts since November 2012 and Gina Brown is sure to take the party to"another level" as leads off what's being billed as "the event of the summer."
ESSENCE MUSIC FEST-201---Photo: "E"Photo
Since 2010, 'VISION/VOICE/VARION" has been your exclusive "all access" backstage pass all of the exclusive interviews, red carpet arrivals, music and this year is no exception! Book your flight and purchase your tickets today, you won't be disappointed. ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2013...."it's going to be epic!"
(Princeton, New Jersey)--This just in, former CNN Correspondent Soledad O'Brien has accepted a teaching position at Harvard University. A Harvard alum, O'Brien will spend the next year at the Ivy League school as a "distinguished visiting fellow." Harvard announces O'Brien will spend the 2013-2014 year delving into topics related to public education in America.
Though O'Brien left her daily hosting gig at CNN, she said she would continue to work with the network producing documentaries independently with her own production company.
"Embracing The Possibilities"-Princeton University
Soledad O'Brien is joining a growing elite number of seasoned journalists who are venturing out on their own and creating their own brand. Katie Couric, Anderson Cooper, Regis Philbin, they're all experienced television personalities who are finding a marginal amount of success without the benefit of call letters at the end of their names. The digital explosion and the world wide web is making it possible to make what may have only been considered a "dream"--reality!
I instantly thought of Soledad as I took advantage of an unexpected opportunity of my own.
While visiting my brother and his family in Mount Laurel, New Jersey I discovered I was only a "stone's throw away" from greatest institution of higher learning-Princeton University.
I was absolutely astonished by Princeton. My first step on the campus literally took my breath away. Princeton is everything you've heard and more. It's the stuff dreams are made of for a lot of kids who grew up in inner cities like me.
Though I wasn't born with a "silver spoon" in my mouth, I truly believe I did okay while attending high school and college in Alabama. But come on, Princeton? Honestly? For so many years I didn't think my grades, background or culture would every afford me an opportunity to enroll, not to mention visit this great institution.
But, perhaps Soledad accepting her "fellowship" at Harvard gave me the courage to at least explore "the possibilities!" You are only limited by the "limitations you place on yourself!" For the last 3 years built a consulting firm, Walton and Associates solely on what I've experienced and mastered when it comes to deadlines, investigative reporting and covering disasters and catastrophes like tornadoes and the BP Oil spill which paralyzed the Gulf Coast.
I truly believe if given a chance, everything I've experienced as a producer, reporter, anchor, could be transferred into an actual classroom. So, why not Princeton, Harvard or Yale for that matter? Never will you find an instructor/visiting fellow with the "drive, fortitude, insight and passion."
Unfortunately more than 50 percent of the instructors in the mass communications departments in major universities in this country have very little practical experience. In fact, less than 50% have stepped into an actual newsroom. I'm reminded of an old adage that echoed in my ear as I produced a newscast and two talk shows in Mobile and was bored by the professors at The University of South Alabama-"if you can't do, teach!"
The April Chill Doesn't Dampen The Dream of " No Limitations"
I have no doubt I could bring the same love and passion that spans nearly two decades in the business into a classroom setting. Why not a Big 10 or Princeton? Again, my new found belief "no limits!"
I've always dreamed of walking the halls of Princeton as a visiting lecturer, educating the 21st century journalists about an industry that never has two days that are the same. This week that dream literally became one step closer into becoming reality with my visit to Princeton, NJ. Walking down the corridors of this ancient institution of scholastic achievers I got a real sense of something bigger than myself.
Tour Guides- Mr. Mrs. Ronald Wesley
I wanted to publicly thank Ronald and Kim
Wesley for planting the seed of a commitment to
excellence. The same warmth, integrity and accuracy I used to master my skills as a "season, proven" television news reporter could make a difference in "influencing the next generation of 21st century journalists."
Princeton University...it's a long shot, but then again--"my God is awesome!" He is capable of doing things exceedingly, over and beyond anything we could imagine. Today I've discovered a new found respect and admiration for higher education. I truly believe in about 10 years I might consider helping students tap into their passion with their chosen careers.
My unexpected opportunity of visiting Princeton University has "renewed, recharged and inspired" me to reach higher heights. Wait until Dr. Cornel West gets a load of me! I would be considered as unorthodox because I would immediately encourage the students to close the textbooks.
Like being a parent, there's no perfect "manual" on how to become an awesome journalist or storyteller.
For that, you've simply got to experience it all first hand--we're talking practical experience. Get out and write about what you see and above all, tell me why it matters and how it affects "RP's!" After all, if it doesn't affect "real people," why are we doing it? Journalism 101!
(Huntsville, AL)--It's a party with a purpose! This Friday night, the women in The Rocket City will take on a new "attitude and altitude!" Join me and Emmy Award winning television personality Janette Smith as we come together with the business women of North Alabama in the annual "Little Black Dress Affair."
It's a night designed with you in mind. Good food, good friends and a great opportunity to discuss the number one killer of women, heart disease. That's this Friday night, March 22 at The Improv on Oakwood Avenue in Huntsville. "Women empowering women." don't miss it!
(Johannesburg, South Africa)-Norma Quarles, Carol Simpson and Charlayne Hunter-Gault, three names that dominated the broadcast news industry in the late 80's and 90's. As a little girl growing up in Prichard, Alabama they were my "it" girls because there were not a lot of examples of strong black female journalists "on air" for me. (Keep in mind this was long before the years of Oprah!) I also never forgot this "fiercely feminine" trio because they broke down barriers, opened doors and paved the way for me.
I remember it like it was yesterday, Sunday after church I'd check out Charlayne Hunter-Gault on PBS. After dinner, Norma Quarles had my undivided attention in between my mother's serving of Southern "chicken and dressing" with NBC Nightly News on the television. Carol Simpson anchored ABC Evening News--Weekend Edition, respectively.
In the late 80's, early 90's they dominated the airwaves, but one by one they all slowly disappeared from the scene. I had the pleasure of meeting Carol Simpson during an NABJ Convention in Nashville nearly a decade ago. To this day Simpson is still quick to tell you what's on her mind and she doesn't mince words when it comes to talking about the continued struggle of breaking down "stereotypes" in the broadcast industry.
A few years later, during another NABJ convention and saw Charlayne Hunter-Gault in a crowded room of other well known national black journalists. I didn't get to meet Gault because my feet would not come unglued from their place. I was somewhat apprehensive about actually walking up to my childhood "shero!" I would never tell Carol, but Charlayne was my favorite. Whenever she was on my television I was immediately awestruck. Not only is she tall and has a "big" presence on camera, to this day she is still articulate and has that smile illuminates any room she enters.
Imagine my surprise when I turned on my television this weekend to find her on the air again after all these years. Charlayne Hunter-Gault was hand picked as a special correspondent for NBC Weekend Today. She had the undaunted task of giving Lester Holt a medical update on another "iconic" male figure that become the lone symbol of ending Apartheid, former South African President Nelson Mandela.
It's got to be gratifying for Gault who now lives full-time in South Africa to know she still has the trust and respect of her colleagues back here at home. Though her hair is now practically white, coiled tightly and different from her days of yesteryear, the wrinkles on her face are a vivid reminder of the miles she logged as an "international correspondent." I'm happy to say after all those years of my humble beginnings of growing up from Prichard, Mrs. Gault still has a way of "stopping me dead in my tracks."
Charlayne Hunter-Gault is one of those seasoned reporters who can still do the legwork and really "go get the big stories." Her intellect and integrity make me proud to spell my name "w-o-m-a-n" as I enter nearly 20 years in the business. Even today without the luxury of major call letters at the back of her name, Charlayne Hunter-Gault exemplifies what I know for sure, "once a journalist, always a journalist!"
That day was truly a special day. Varion Walton is a dear friend of mine. She invited my wife and I to her birthday party at the historical ...
I just had to go back and save this one from my dear friend and gifted photographer Timothy L. Jones.
It makes me think of the spiritual, "my soul sits back and wonder how I got over!"
2007 was a very challenging year.
Thank God Tim was there to help me capture the memories of some happier times!
(Memphis, TN.)--Some say her "sultry alto" vocals are as smooth as "Godiva Chocolate". Lalah Hathaway, known as the "First Daughter of Soul" chats with Varion Walton about her years in the industry, her push to get music back in the classroom, plus her connection to one of the most legendary singers in R&B. Check your local listings, this show is "on fire". Lalah is an incredible talent. Let's help her "go platinum."
(Digital Video Provided by "E" of El-pwe's Photography)
(Fairhope, Alabama)--There's "no higher honor" than meeting one of your childhood role models. Dr. Condoleezza Rice is and always has been considered a strong example for me and my siblings. I personally have always considered her to be the "one to watch"while growing up in the state of Alabama. Dr. Rice is a "classic" example of the "sky is the limit". Politics aside, she has held two of the highest positions in U.S. government and did so by maintaining her integrity and honor. It was absolutely my honor finally meeting her in Fairhope, Alabama.
Condoleezza Rice is as genuinely strong as you might imagine, both on and "off camera". I also had a great time "hamming" it up briefly with some of my colleagues in Mobile. Thank you to Photographer Timothy L. Jones and Cederick McMillan for your continued support in helping "VISION, VOICE, VARION." Still Photos: Courtesy of Tim Jones of Timothy L. Jones Photography.
Dr. Rice arriving for book signing at Page & Palette-Fairhope,AL.
Varion Walton asking questions about her new memoir-"No Higher Honor"
Varion Walton and Former U.S. Secretary Condoleezza Rice
Varion Walton and Studio 10 Co-Host Joe Emer
Cederick McMillan and Varion Walton
Pastor Cederick McMillan and Former U.S. Secretary Rice
(Fairhope, Alabama)--For more than eight years she served in two of the highest levels of government, sometimes seeking common ground with some of our most revered enemies around the world!
How did she do it? Does she have any regrets in the role she and the Bush administration played in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina? Who does she thinks gets the credit for bringing down "AMERICA'S MOST WANTED" Osama Bin Laden? What about her pick in the upcoming Iron Bowl? Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is talking and Varion Walton has her story. "NO HIGHER HONOR", Condoleezza Rice's new memoir of her "years in Washington."
ONLY ON "VISION, VOICE, VARION", live coverage of Dr. Rice's visit to the Gulf Coast as it happens. "VISION, VOICE, VARION" more of what you love, "24/7".
HAPPENING NOVEMBER 18TH
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Ruben Studdard Celebrating Life
Ruben Studdard talks exclusively about his upcoming event in Birmingham, Alabama later this month. This former American Idol sits down in an interview with Varion and opens up about maintaining a healthier lifestyle now that he is a husband and father. Check out the exclusive story and sign up to take part in Ruben's Celebration Weekend November 18th in the Magic City. A portion of the proceeds go on to Ruben's foundation which helps other rising young stars. "VISION, VOICE, VARION"-information for your heart and soul!
(Mobile, AL.)-Anthony Hamilton's voice is known worldwide. He has a sound that is distinctively his own! Right now he's gearing up for his "Woo" Tour which starts November 9th. He's also preparing to give millions of his fans more of what they love, new music! His new album, "Back To Love" drops just in time for your Christmas shopping list December 13th. I loved it one of his true blue fans from the "HamFam" described his soulful sound as someone discovering the last "batch of collard greens were just stolen from the fridge.
Grammy Award Winning Singer Anthony Hamilton
Anthony Hamilton, classic singer, electric performer and one of the most prolific voices of our time! Check him out folks as he heads to a town near you with his new music, new tour and continued commitment to making you go "woo!" As you'll see in this video taken during his performance during BayFest 2011 in Mobile, Alabama you won't be disappointed.
(New Orleans, Louisiana)--July 1-What can you say about the fabulous Fantasia? Here's a woman who doesn't mind exposing her "heart and soul" through song! From the moment she took the stage Fantasia Barrino was blowing everyone away with her vocal range and her "bear foot performance"! Let's not forget she is a girl from the Carolinas who doesn't mind singing about "Collard Greens and Cornbread!"
But, Fantasia is also turning heads at The 2011 Essence Music Festival with a burning question, "is she or isn't she?"
Fantasia's publicist says "The American Idol" winner is preparing for the role of a life-time. She's been tapped to play Gospel Great Mahalia Jackson. But many speculate Fantasia is actually hiding a baby bump.!
I got a chance to chat with her briefly following that performance and all I can say is "she's beautiful, whatever the case!" In addition to being very gracious and accommodating, Fantasia stopped and posed for a couple of photos with photographer "E" of El-pwe's Photography. The first thing I noticed was that absolutely "healthy head of hair" and the impeccably beautiful blue dress she wore during the performance designed by Maria Harper, "designer to the stars."
In addition to Fantasia, Maria also designs the absolutely "jaw dropping" dresses worn by Wendy Raquel Robinson who plays the role of "Tasha Mack" on the hit BET drama series "The Game". Maria tells me Wendy is the "perfect size 4" and is also one of her top clients. Here's another quick scoop on Maria, she's considering a "reality series" based in Atlanta. She certainly would have plenty of material while dressing Fantasia during The Essence Music Festival.
It was certainly a "fantastic" way to cap off a perfect start to the Essence Festival. Fantasia and Jennifer Hudson, two mothers who are traveling with their children this summer entertaining adoring fans all around the country. Ironically, as I watched them both exclusively in their dressing rooms I couldn't help but think Jennifer could have easily stepped into the role of Mahalia Jackson too. What do you think? Let me hear your comments on Jennifer and Fantasia's stories and tell me what you think of our "all access" coverage of The Essence Music Festival so far.
Keep it "locked in", more exclusives to come including interviews with Kem, Tina Knowles and Tank.
(New Orleans, LA.) July 1st--The first day at The Essence Festival is filled with fun, food and excitement. More than 7 thousand people joined me at The Ernest Morial Convention Center for giveaways, seminars and a chance to "press the flesh" with some of the hottest artists and celebrities. Photographer El-pwe Ray one of the the most sought-after photographers captured the "essence" of the day and night. We start things off with Carl Payne of The Martin Lawrence Show.
We also encountered a brief meeting with Derek J, the high heel , stiletto wearing stylist to the stars. Yes, ladies I found myself with "shoe envy " for the first time in my life. Derek has turned heads on The Real Housewives of Atlanta and New Orleans was no exception.
Check out the shots of Keisha -Knight Pulliam of The House of Payne. Let's just say little Rudy has certainly grown up. She is simply beautiful as she signs autographs with her " House of Pain"co-star Lance Gross of the comedy sitcom.
Photos by: El-pwe Ray "El-pwe's Photography"
One of the bigger highlights for me was seeing a taping of "Family Feud" with Steve Harvey. He as mixing things up with two families from the New Orleans area .
We also got a sneak peek at Charlie Wilson's Friday night performance on The Ford stage. Wow, he took it to the stage pleasing fans of all generations. The former lead singer of the Gap Band "burned rubber on screaming audiences from The Convention Center to the Super Dome until nearly 1am. It's been a great weekend so far. It's a lot of work, but I'm determined to give you more of what you love 24/7. VISION/VOICE/VARION-your source for entertainment news.
