It’s been a while since I’ve posted here, and I want to wish each and every one of you a very happy and healthy new year!

The past year has flown and has been filled with its share of joy and sadness. The world is a little bit emptier since the transition of three very close ones. James Willis, my son’s father, left us in January, my dear friend and neighbor, Joe McDermott, departed in April, and my lovely cousin, Joan Ruffins, joined the angels at the end of May. Though I am saddened by their loss, I feel their presence and warm smiles in every shining star.

I am grateful for a very creative year where I released a new album of original songs into the world. I was fortunate to be able to celebrate with friends in different parts of the United States at three different events. In September 2012, I serenaded a group of friends in a pre-release party at The Cellar in Waterloo, Iowa. In January 2013, I celebrated with friends at a CD Release Concert at Vicky’s of Santa Fe in Indian Wells, California.  Finally, in July 2013, I celebrated with family and friends at my official Chicago CD Release Concert at Katerina’s with some of the musicians who performed on the album.

I had the opportunity to produce another music video, which was filmed on October 12, 2013 in Lincoln Park in Chicago. Featuring the song, Geography, and two amazing dancers, it will be released very soon so stay tuned! Here is a photo of the cast and crew featuring from left to right Anthony Rizzo, Director/Cinematographer/Editor, yours truly, Rebecca Marie Faria, Dancer/Choreographer, Devin DeAndre Buchanan, Dancer/Choreographer, and Wendy Santeliz, Production Assistant and Still Photographer.

Anthony Rizzo, Linda Tate, Rebecca Marie Faria, Devin DeAndre Buchanan, Wendy Santeliz