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A Branding Guru. A Social Media Maven. If you have an event or production and nobody knows about it, pretty much it doesn't exist. This website was created to build a national platform to display projects of Directors, Producers, FIlmMakers and all aspect of TV Film and Music Productions Behind the Scenes.

‘Three Buddies’ Brings Burgers and Bold Flavor to the Classic City of Athens, GA

529 Baxter Ave, Athens, GA (walking distance from UGA campus)

ATHENS, GA, August 29, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ — Three Buddies, the fast-casual dining concept redefining comfort food with a creative twist, proudly announces the official grand opening soon to take place at its newest location in Athens, Georgia. Behind this rapidly growing brand are visionary multipreneur Peter Anand and Managing Partner Tia Jakes, whose combined leadership, innovation, and decades of experience in hospitality are setting new standards in Georgia’s dining scene.

Launched in May 2024, Three Buddies quickly distinguished itself with its Certified Angus Beef burgers—widely regarded as some of Atlanta’s best—alongside a diverse menu that blends comfort and creativity. In less than a year, Anand and Jakes have successfully opened three thriving locations, with Athens marking the latest milestone in the brand’s expansion.

“Three Buddies was built on the idea that food should be both comforting and exciting,” said Anand. “Bringing that vision to Athens is incredibly special, because this community values flavor, experience, and togetherness—exactly what Three Buddies stands for.”

A Bold Journey from Barbecue Pits to Boardrooms
Anand’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Putnam, Connecticut, and raised in Utica, NY, he relocated to Atlanta at just seven years old. By his teenage years, he was already winning barbecue competitions and showcasing his culinary skills at formal events. His early career in hospitality began as a server at Buffalo’s Café, where he was promoted to General Manager within just one month. Leadership roles at McDonald’s, Atlanta Bread, and Uncle Vito’s soon followed.

After college, with the support of his father, Anand opened his first bar and began working closely with the Buckhead Life Group’s legendary “Mr. Buckhead George.” From there, he built a diverse restaurant portfolio that includes Mirala Fine Dining, Pete’s Sports Bar & Grill, Vince Et’ Chrision Italian, and Firkin & Gryphon—culminating in his latest concept, Three Buddies.

The Power of Partnership: Tia Jakes at the Helm of Operations
At the heart of Three Buddies’ rapid success is Tia Jakes, Managing Partners and business partner to Anand. With more than 26 years of diverse and progressive experience in the restaurant, hospitality, and event planning industries, Jakes brings unparalleled expertise to the table. From opening restaurants to designing operational processes, she has played an instrumental role in ensuring Three Buddies’ consistent growth and efficiency.

Jakes also leads the development, implementation, and execution of short- and long-range business plans for Your Fifth Quarter, LLC, a premier Atlanta-based restaurant management company that owns, operates, and oversees a variety of innovative dining concepts. Her leadership ensures that every Three Buddies location delivers not only exceptional food but also a seamless guest experience.

“Three Buddies is more than a restaurant—it’s a lifestyle brand built on vision, consistency, and community,” said Jakes. “Athens represents an exciting chapter, and we are committed to making this location a cornerstone of the neighborhood.”

Beyond the Kitchen: Engineering Success
Anand’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond hospitality. In 1988, he joined Canterbury Engineering, where he rose from machine operator to VP of Operations, driving sales from $8 million to $120 million in just three years. He later founded Joe Tools in 2009, scaling the design and engineering startup to $30 million in annual sales before selling it in 2023 for $16 million.

Looking Ahead
With Athens now on the map, Anand and Jakes plan to expand the Three Buddies brand through franchising, while also exploring new ventures. Balancing their passion for business with a commitment to family and community, the leadership team is focused on creating long-term opportunities for growth and sustainability.

For more menu updates and upcoming events follow us on social media @thenewthreebuddies on Instagram and Facebook.

About Three Buddies
Founded in 2024 by entrepreneur Peter Anand, and co-led by Director of Managing Partners Tia Jakes, Three Buddies is a fast-casual restaurant concept where comfort meets culinary creativity. Known for its Certified Angus Beef burgers, diverse menu, and welcoming atmosphere, Three Buddies has quickly become a favorite for food lovers across Georgia. With multiple locations and a vision for national franchising, the brand is poised for continued growth and success.

Media Contact:Jonell Whitt
Jonell PR Brand Management, LLC whyjonellpr@gmail.com

Kym Whitley Celebrates New Movie ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ at Game Night

On July 25th lifetime memories were made at Mari Morrow’s infamous ‘friends like family’ game night; which was more than just cards, dominoes, and laughter—it was a heartfelt celebration. ‘Friends like family’ gathered to welcome home actress Mari Morrow’s mom, Corrine Morrow, who finally returned from the hospice house to continue her recovery since her stroke 2 years ago which paralyzed the left side of her body.

Ms Morrow was so happy to recieve her floweres while she was still with us, and extremely happy to have so many visitors.

Adding to the excitement, comedy powerhouse Kym Whitley was in the house(literally). It felt only right to give a round of applause to the 2-time NAACP Image Awards (Outstanding Lifestyle & Self‑Help Podcast in 2022 Outstanding Arts & Entertainment Podcast in 2023) winner for her hit podcast 2 Funny Mamas alonside Sherri Shepherd. The crowd also celebrated her latest big move: landing a role in Happy Gilmore 2, which premiered on Netflix on Friday, July 24th. Ironically on movie night. It was a double celebration!

The room buzzed with joy as tables overflowed with classic favorites—Spades, Connect Four, Jenga, Uno—and a friendly game of dominoes. All teams on deck were ready for friendly rivalries and plenty of smack talk.

Between the games, the laughter, and the love in the room, it was a night that reminded everyone of the joy of togetherness—and the resilience of family.

Paula Patton Slays in Her Most Soul-Stirring Role Yet

Demetrius Grosse, Paula Patton
Demetrius Grosse, Paula Patton

Patton opened up about her transformative role in Finding Faith, a new film that delves into pain, healing, and spiritual awakening.

Catching up with Paula Patton is always a pleasure. The last time we met was years ago when Robyn Thicke made the introduction and her glow hasn’t dimmed a bit. But this time, our conversation wasn’t just light-hearted—it was profound.


A Role That Mirrors Real Life

In Finding Faith, Patton plays a woman fighting through emotional darkness—and the parallels to her real-life journey are striking.

“I didn’t go through exactly what Faith did,” she shared, “but I’ve known pain. I’ve numbed it with alcohol. And when I stopped drinking seven years ago, I had to strip away everything—the career, the friends, the ego—and truly understand my worth.”

For Paula, this wasn’t just another role. It was personal.


The Healing Power of Performance

“This film was cathartic,” she explained. “There were moments where I had to revisit parts of myself that I thought I left behind. But doing that brought me healing.”

Her performance is more than acting—it’s a reflection of growth and self-restoration. She channels past struggles into every scene, offering authenticity that resonates on screen.


Mental Health in the Spotlight

We touched on a topic that’s becoming more urgent in the entertainment world: the mental toll of embodying heavy roles. Paula is all for having therapists on set.

“When you’re acting for 15 hours a day, it becomes more than just a job—it’s energy you carry with you,” she said. “Any support that helps artists stay grounded and emotionally healthy is essential.”

Her perspective brings attention to the importance of mental wellness in an industry that often demands emotional labor.


A Message of Hope and Redemption

Patton hopes Finding Faith connects deeply with viewers—especially those struggling with guilt, loss, or spiritual doubt.

“It shows that there’s a way through,” she said. “That God is always waiting. Prayer, faith, and grace can carry you through anything.”

It’s a film with heart, soul, and purpose—crafted not only to entertain but to heal.


An All-Star Cast with Depth and Chemistry

Paula also gave a heartfelt nod to her co-stars, including Demetrius Grosse and Stephen Bishop.

“Demetrius is incredible—so strong, grounded, and gentle. He acts from the gut,” she said. “And Stephen… well, audiences will see how his role unfolds. We had great chemistry across the board.”


In Theaters for a Limited Time

With Finding Faith, Paula Patton proves that vulnerability is her superpower. She delivers a layered performance that may very well be the most defining of her career.

Don’t miss the chance to witness this unforgettable role—Finding Faith hits select theaters June 16th and 17th only.

Let’s show up, show out, and let Hollywood know we’re here for powerful stories with purpose.

Terisa Griffin: Powerhouse Vocals, Purpose-Driven Life

When Terisa Griffin steps on stage, she doesn’t just sing—she commands the moment. Her voice is rooted in gospel. Her spirit is grounded in truth. The Louisiana native and Chicago-raised soulstress has carved out a lane all her own. Her journey—from the pulpit to the national spotlight on The Voice—is filled with grit, grace, and unwavering faith.

“I’m a little bit country, a little bit city, and a whole lot of grown,” she laughs. “Louisiana gave me my roots. Chicago gave me my wings.”

Terisa’s musical journey began in her father’s church, surrounded by powerhouse sisters. “I was five when I told my dad I could sing. And instead of saying ‘sit down,’ he said, ‘come on.’ That one moment taught me there’s always space for me in this world.”

Her latest single, When You’re Around Me, is deeply personal. It is a sultry ballad inspired by the emotional rollercoaster of nearly losing her husband to COVID. “After he recovered, he brushed up against me in the hallway. I thought, ‘I fall in love every time I’m around you.’ That moment birthed the song.”

Whether in studio or on stage, Griffin performs with full vulnerability. “Someone in that audience paid to forget their problems. I owe it to them to be there and take them on a journey,” she says. “I cry through my lyrics because I feel them. I want my audience to feel them too.”

That same raw honesty is what fans connected with during Season 3 of The Voice. Though she didn’t win, Terisa walked away with something greater—clarity. “It wasn’t about a title. It was about using the platform to build momentum,” she says.

The Voice was a milestone in Griffin’s career. Another highlight was The Oprah Winfrey Show, where she shared the stage with Diana Ross. Griffin’s career is studded with pinch-me moments. “When Diana passed me the mic, it was like getting stamped by royalty. If Diana Ross sees me, who can be against me?”

Beyond the music, Terisa’s heart beats for service. Her nonprofit, Better Love Yourself, provides college-bound youth with “footlockers” full of essentials—and messages of affirmation. “These kids need to know they’re loved, that they matter, and that someone believes in them,” she says. “Sometimes strangers show us the love we never got at home.”

The program’s impact is personal and profound. “I’ve been invited to weddings, baby dedications—some of these young people still call me ‘Miss Griffin.’ That’s my Grammy. That’s my Oscar.”

As an independent artist in an industry obsessed with fitting in, Terisa has never wavered. “I am that I am,” she declares. “I’ve been told I’m too soulful or too different. But when you tamper with your DNA to please others, you’re the one left unhappy. I refuse.”

Looking ahead, she dreams of duets with legends. She wishes Marvin Gaye were still alive for a duet. In the now, she hopes to sing with Raheem DeVaughn or Jill Scott. “Jill’s humanness, femininity and her power—I love everything about her.”

To her fiercely loyal supporters—the “T-Hive”—Griffin says: “Thank you. You’ve loved me fiercely. You didn’t have to, but you did. I’ll always show up for you.”

And she will. Because for Terisa Griffin, the stage isn’t just where she sings—it’s where she shows up, fully and fearlessly.

Time II Unfinished Business Official Documentary Released on Juneteenth

Fox and Rob Launch #TimeIIWatch Impact Campaign, 

Unveil Groundbreaking Release Strategy for 

“TIME II: Unfinished Business” This Juneteenth 2025 
Stars of Oscar-nominated TIME (2020) unveil sequel with a movement-building release strategy. The strategy mobilizes over 1M people to watch. They witness and walk the path of freedom. TIME II: Unfinished Business—the powerful follow-up to the Oscar-nominated documentary TIME—available this Juneteenth 2025.

This new film, directed by Fox Rich, goes beyond storytelling. It launches alongside a bold national movement—#TimeIIWatch. The movement mobilizes over 1 million people in a synchronized watch party. It calls to action around justice and mass incarceration.

Justice advocates, Sibil “Fox” and Robert “Rob” Richardson (Fox and Rob), starred in the Oscar-nominated documentary TIME (2020). Today, they launched #TimeIIWatch: A Juneteenth Campaign for Freedom. This is a groundbreaking impact campaign. It is designed to amplify their long-awaited sequel TIME II: Unfinished Business. It also aims to ignite a nationwide movement for systemic justice ahead of its Juneteenth release. Fueled by the declaration “To Be Free is to Free Others,” #TimeIIWatch transforms art into activism. It serves as a participatory action tool rather than mere entertainment. The initiative calls upon 1M+ people to join a revolutionary watch party experience. It transcends a typical movie premiere. It mobilizes collective action to finish the unfinished work of freedom that Juneteenth began.

TIME II marks the directorial debut of Fox Rich, who captivated audiences as the indomitable matriarch in TIME. She reflects on her visionary role. Her personal journey has evolved into a fight for the freedom of others. She declares, “If ‘TIME’ was the cry, ‘TIME II’ is the call. This project serves multiple purposes. It is an intentional call-to-action. It acts as a mirror. It reveals flaws in our justice system. It is a megaphone. This act confronts excessive sentencing. It challenges other unjust acts that enslave us through mass incarceration. An entire movement redefines what it truly means to be free in America.”

Rob Rich, who served 21 years in the Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola), adds, “We’re flipping the script. Films drive change in a new way. TIME II isn’t about algorithms or streaming royalties, it’s about people power. Freedom isn’t free, and this campaign asks audiences to invest not just their time, but their voices.” 

TIME II: Unfinished Business dives into the aftermath of Rob’s release from Angola after 21 grueling years. This release only marked the beginning. Their continued fight for freedom carries on. The battle now rages on for their nephew and “fall partner,” Ontario, who remains unjustly imprisoned. Fox and Rob confront the brutal realities that come with their unwavering commitment. They are determined to free their nephew. They also aim to honor the sacred promise they made to Rob’s sister to bring her baby boy home. 

Barbara Walters “Tell Me Everything” Documentary Drops 6/23 on Hulu

Today, ABC News Studios announced the new feature-length documentary, “Barbara Walters Tell Me Everything.” It is produced by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard’s Imagine Documentaries. It will premiere Monday, June 23, on Hulu in the U.S. and later this year on Disney+ in select territories internationally after its world premiere at the 2025 Tribeca Festival. This documentary comes from the producing team behind the 2024 Emmy® Award-winning Best Documentary, “Jim Henson Idea Man.” It is directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker and journalist Jackie Jesko. The film examines the broadcast legend’s pivotal role in the history of journalism. It also highlights her pioneering example for women in the industry.

Barbara Walters (Sept. 25, 1929-Dec. 30, 2022) didn’t just report the news — she made news. She was a true American original and a trailblazer who broke ground for women in broadcasting. The documentary gives viewers an intimate and raw look at her astonishing career. It also explores her personal life. Additionally, it delves into the challenges she faced trying to balance it all as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Walters, in her own words, also reflects on the high price of fame and the legacy she hoped to inspire.

“ABC News broke new ground by hiring Barbara. They put a woman at the anchor desk. This move broke the exclusive preserve of men,” said David Sloan, senior executive producer, ABC News. “Her road was filled with peril and naysayers and navigating that was not without personal costs. Nevertheless, Barbara created a dazzling career that had no blueprint and changed broadcast journalism forever.”

Sara Bernstein, president of Imagine Documentaries, said, “Barbara Walters was a true trailblazer. She changed the face of broadcast journalism. She set the gold standard. She completely transformed the culture’s consumption of celebrity journalism. In the process, she inspired generations with her determination, brilliance and humanity. It’s been a true privilege to collaborate with Jackie Jesko, Betsy West and the exceptional team at ABC News Studios. We can’t wait to shine a light on Barbara’s iconic story with the Hulu audience.”

“My hope for the film is that audiences feel they get to know the real Barbara, in all her complexities. They will see her private struggles and her public triumphs,” said Jesko. “Barbara stayed a television fixture for five decades, battling rampant sexism, fierce competition, and a constantly evolving media landscape. Today, celebrities and politicians often choose to speak out on their own social media platforms. They prefer this over subjecting themselves to a news interviewer. Barbara’s story gives us the opportunity to explore the changing relationship between journalism, fame, and truth.”

The film features unaired footage from ABC’s extensive archives. It includes interviews with people who knew and worked with the broadcast legend. Some of these people are Cindy Adams, Joy Behar, Connie Chung, Martin Clancy, and Andy Cohen. Others include Katie Couric, Peter Gethers, Lori Klein, and Cynthia McFadden. Bette Midler, Victor Neufeld, David Sloan, Katie Nelson Thomson, Chris Vlasto, and Oprah Winfrey are also among them.

“Barbara Walters Tell Me Everything” is produced by Imagine Documentaries for ABC News Studios. It is linked to Latchkey Films. Jesko directed it. For Imagine Documentaries, the film is produced by Marcella Steingart, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes and Meredith Kaulfers. Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, Justin Wilkes and Betsy West serve as executive producers. Muriel Pearson is executive producer, and David Sloan is senior executive producer for ABC News Studios.

Tika Sumpter Shares Her IVF and Miscarriage Journey

Tika Sumpter

In a heartfelt appearance on the Tamron Hall Show, actress Tika Sumpter discussed her deeply personal journey. She opened up about her experiences with in vitro fertilization (IVF) and miscarriage. She shared insights into how she navigated these experiences with her daughter, Ella-Loren.​

A Family Conversation

Host Tamron Hall asked how much Ella knew about the IVF process and the miscarriage. Sumpter recounted their candid discussions. “We were like, ‘Mommy and Daddy are trying to get a sibling.’ And she’s like, ‘Okay, can I give you that shot?'” Sumpter shared, highlighting Ella’s eagerness to be involved. She humorously added, “I had to tell Ella to slow down.” Ella was very excited about administering the IVF shot.​

Sharing the Pain and the Hope

Sumpter revealed to Hall, for the first time publicly, that she had experienced a miscarriage during her IVF journey. “I did hold the child, and I miscarried,” she said. “But I’m glad that I can share with others the experience. While it was tough, it was still worth it for me. Ella was there and didn’t know I held the child, but she saw the shots.”​Allure+2Essence+2Essence+2

She emphasized the importance of sharing such experiences to support others. She stated, “I feel like I’m helping somebody else understand the process. Not only the process, but I’ve also been there with you. I am not the first one, and I won’t be the last. But we can share in that.”​

Looking Ahead

Sumpter reflected on her journey. She mentioned that she had earlier decided against attempting IVF again due to the emotional toll. Still, she is now considering it once more. She acknowledged the hope that IVF brings to many. She expressed a wish to be more informed about her health in future attempts. “I think IVF gives so much hope to so many people. I wish I had known more about my health before. I wanted to understand what was missing,” she said.​

Sumpter’s openness aims to shed light on the often private struggles linked to fertility treatments. It also encourages others to share their stories.​

For a more in-depth look at Tika Sumpter’s experience and her thoughts on motherhood and vulnerability, you can watch her interview on the Tamron Hall Show:​

Empowering Voices: Cassandra Bell’s Impact in Filmmaking

Cassandra Bell / Screenwriter /Director/Producer

“Never allow doubt to stop your purpose. Use it to motivate it.” -Cassandra Bell

In an entertainment world where female directors often face steep hurdles, Cassandra Bell has managed to rise above it all. These challenges range from limited funding opportunities and lack of representation to public scrutiny and controversy. She has not allowed industry politics or bias to derail her dreams. She has stayed focused on her purpose. She has sharpened her craft. She has consistently delivered projects that matter.

A proud Chicago native, Cassandra’s work is richly inspired by the culture and heartbeat of her community. Her academic journey through Columbia College and Roosevelt University was pivotal. She ultimately graduated with honors from Governor State University. This journey has shaped a filmmaker with both intellectual depth and creative brilliance. Bell is deeply committed to social justice. She has a gift for creating impactful visual narratives. She is intentional about uplifting underrepresented voices—especially women.

Her achievements speak volumes. Cassandra works as a Producer, Director, and Talent Scout for Gill Talent Group. She operates across major markets including Chicago, Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles. She has proven her versatility and reach. She’s been invited to speak on several panels, both live and virtual. Her contributions have earned her the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award under the Biden Administration. This award is a recognition reserved for leaders whose impact transcends their field.

Regardless if it’s Women’s History Month and beyond, Cassandra Bell is a shining example of overcoming challenges. She persists and leads with purpose. She is not just telling stories—she’s rewriting the narrative for women and Black filmmakers everywhere.

The All New 87.7 Presents “The Vibe” – It’s Official Welcome and Launch Party Spotlighting R&B and Southern Soul, “The Vibe” Friday March 21, 2025 at Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar in Marietta!

The All New 87-7 Presents “The Vibe” Friday March 21, 2025 at Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar in Marietta!

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Atlanta, March 12, 2025 – Core Radio Group is thrilled to announce WELCOME TO THE VIBE the official launch of 87.7 The VIBE, Atlanta’s new home for R&B and Southern Soul, Friday March 21, 2025 at Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar featuring special performers and guests.

The festivities will take place at Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar, located at 1477 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062. The event will commence with an exclusive private meet & greet from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offering attendees an intimate experience with the station’s personalities and featured artists such as Southern Soul artists Nila Milan, Mr Mister, and Big Chad Reed Following this, the event will open to the public at 8:00 PM, inviting all music enthusiasts to join the celebration. Must RSVP.

Since its soft launch on January 13, 2025, 87.7 The VIBE has rapidly become a favorite among Atlanta listeners, delivering a rich blend of R&B hits from the ’80s to today, including legends like Mary J. Blige and Usher. 87.7 The Vibe also spotlights the most popular Southern Soul favorites. 87.7 featuring the nationally syndicated “DeDe in the Morning” show to its lineup, enhancing the vibrant mix of content, 5AM – 10AM weekdays.

“We are ecstatic to bring 87.7 The VIBE to Atlanta,” said Steve Hegwood, CEO of Core Radio Group. “Our mission is to provide a platform that celebrates the rich heritage of R&B and Southern Soul, and this launch event at Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar is just the beginning of our commitment to the community.”

Listeners can tune in to 87.7 FM or stream live through the station’s website at www.877thevibe.com for updates and more information.

Event Details:
Date: Friday, March 21, 2025
Private Meet & Greet: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Public Access: 8:00 PM onwards
LocationHarold’s Chicken & Ice Bar, 1477 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062
For continuous updates and announcements, visit 877thevibe.com or follow 87.7 The VIBE on social media platforms.

Note: For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Jonell PR Brand Management at 470-812-8888 or 877TheVibeFM@gmail.com.

Molly Ringwald on Growing Up with Fame | Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky

This week on Reclaiming, we sit down with the incomparable Molly Ringwald, the actress who defined a generation and shaped ’80s pop culture forever (Pretty In Pink, Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club).

In this intimate conversation, Molly pulls back the curtain on her meteoric rise to fame, sharing candid revelations about navigating Hollywood as a teenage icon. She offers a fascinating glimpse into her creative partnership with legendary director John Hughes, and reveals the untold story of how her own headshot unexpectedly inspired the classic “Pretty in Pink.” Plus, Molly reflects on her years in Paris, where she rediscovered herself away from the American spotlight.

Ringwald shared that Hughes wrote Sixteen Candles inspired solely by her headshot, which he had pinned above his computer. She also recounted how an impromptu dance with co-star Matt Freeman at Kingston Mines led Hughes to conceptualize her character in Pretty in Pink.

Reflecting on her early fame, Ringwald acknowledged that while she has always been in the public eye, the intense spotlight during her teenage years felt overwhelming and intimidating. She continues to process the complexities of her early career and her collaboration with Hughes, recognizing both the opportunities and challenges it presented.

For a deeper insight into Molly Ringwald’s experiences and reflections, watch the full interview below: