The EbonLiner

• Bernie Mac-Gone Too Soon 4:30:25 3.35 PM

  Photo: J. Corey GriffinUsage: Wikipedia CC BY-SA 3.0vStory by: Gail NoblesYou know, you turn on the TV sometimes, and there he is, Bernie Mac. Big grin, that gravelly voice, talking straight to the camera, giving you the business. You almost forget. He's right there, full of life, full of… attitude.And then you remember. He's gone.Funny thing is, he was just hitting his stride, wasn’t he? He did it all. Janitor, bus driver, Wonder Bread man – you name it. Paid his dues, that's for sure. You gotta admire a guy who works that hard just to get to tell jokes on a stage. And he wasn't scared to tell the jokes. Def Comedy Jam, that was something else. Who else could walk out on that stage and tell a crowd he ain't scared of 'em?Then the "Bernie Mac Show." Smart show. It wasn't just another sitcom. It was real. It was funny, but it was real. Guy raising his sister’s kids, talking to the camera like we were all in on the joke. And it won awards. An Emmy, a Peabody. That's not just for making people laugh.And then, just like that, he's talking about retiring. Enjoying life. Said he wanted to spend time with his family, missed a lot on the road. You think, "Good for him. He deserves it."Sarcoidosis, they said. That's a nasty word, sarcoidosis. Another reminder that life ain't fair. You think a guy who worked that hard, made people laugh that much, would get a little more time.And he was only 50! Fifty! You know how old 50 is? It's just getting started!That's the thing about life, isn't it? You can have all the plans in the world, be right at the peak of your game, and then… *poof*. It's gone.Makes you think. Makes you wonder. Makes you want to appreciate every single day. Especially the ones you get to spend laughing. And Bernie Mac, well, he gave a lot of people a lot of laughs. You can't take that away. Even if he's gone.I'm Gail Nobles, and you're listening to Ebonliner

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• Beyond the Gates 12:17:25 11.03 PM

  Photo: Nightscream - Own workUsage: Wikipedia CC BY 3.0Story by: Gail NoblesI'm Gail Nobles, and welcome to Ebonliner. Today, let’s dive into a topic that stirs fond memories and perhaps a little sentimentality: the beloved soap opera. For many, soap operas have been a staple of daytime television—an escape into worlds filled with drama, romance, and the perpetual question: Who will betray whom this week? Yet, in recent years, we witnessed a curious phenomenon: a lot of our cherished soaps were simply taken away, leaving fans to wonder if we were witnessing the final curtain on the golden age of the soap opera.But fear not, for hope springs eternal in the form of ‘Beyond the Gates,’ a new series poised to breathe life back into the genre. Premiering on CBS on February 24, 2025, this upcoming American soap opera promises to capture both hearts and imaginations once again.Set in a picturesque Maryland suburb just outside our nation's capital, ‘Beyond the Gates’ will follow the Dupree family—an affluent, multi-generational African-American clan living in the exclusive Fairmont Estates. This series is poised to make history as the first daytime soap to feature a predominantly African-American cast since ‘Generations’ graced our screens in the early ’90s. In a television landscape that often sidelines diverse narratives, it represents an exciting shift toward inclusivity in daytime programming.The arrival of ‘Beyond the Gates’ is a revival of the art form for a new generation. With production already underway in Atlanta, Georgia, anticipation is building around this project created by Michele Val Jean. It’s the first new daytime soap opera to premiere on a major American network in nearly three decades—a remarkable milestone in itself.As we look forward to its debut, it’s clear the world of soap operas is not ready to bow out just yet. And just like our favorite characters navigating scandals and secrets, we too shall rekindle the love for these heartfelt dramas. So, mark your calendars and prepare for a new chapter filled with intrigue, joy, and, undoubtedly, plenty of plot twists.The heart warming return of a classic American tradition. Until next time, have a good night.

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• Khalilah Ali 2:3:25 8.56 PM

  Story & Cover Art by: Gail NoblesIn today's news, we're highlighting Khalilah Ali, the ex-wife of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. Khalilah is not only known for her connection to the famous boxer but also for her impressive background in martial arts. She was actually taught by the iconic martial artist Bruce Lee. Khalilah has shared that she kept her martial arts training quiet because Muhammad Ali was such a well-known challenger in the boxing world. Throughout her life, she has had the unique opportunity to be around many influential people, including activists, political leaders, and even royalty. From a young age, she's learned valuable lessons from these remarkable figures.It's fascinating to think about the strong connections between Khalilah, Bruce Lee, and Muhammad Ali. While it's clear that Khalilah had a close relationship with Bruce Lee, it makes us wonder if Muhammad Ali ever had the chance to meet him. There’s no definitive public record of a documented meeting between them. Khalilah's journey, filled with encounters with so many important people, truly highlights her interesting and accomplished life.I'm Gail Nobles. Today's topic Khalilah Ali. Thank you for listening to Ebonliner.

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• Calvin Lane 11:30:24 8.18 PM

  Photo: Brian Harris - FlickrUsage: CC BY 2.0Story by: Gail NoblesIn Hollywood's colorful history, some people are memorable not just for their acting but for how they look and carry themselves. Among these notable giants, we find Calvin Lane, a towering …. I guess about 7 feet 5 inches tall, who comes from the heart of Dallas, Texas. You might remember him from a memorable episode of *Walker, Texas Ranger*, titled "Deep Cover," which aired in 1995. There stands Lane, a true colossus of a man, going toe-to-toe with none other than Chuck Norris. It was an awe-inspiring moment; Lane was the biggest man I had ever witnessed Norris battle, a scene forever etched in my memory. Calvin Lane is very handsome too and fit for Hollywood. Before Calvin Lane, I was captivated by the work of Michael Clarke Duncan, whom we all remember from unforgettable films like ‘The Green Mile’ of 1999 and ‘Daredevil’ of 2003. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, Duncan commanded the screen with a charisma that made him larger than life. After his untimely passing in 2012, I found myself reflecting on the loss and wondering who could possibly step into his shoes, particularly for the role of Kingpin in ‘Daredevil’. In my mind now, Calvin Lane could have been that worthy successor, a fitting giant in both stature and talent. But perhaps it was never meant to be, as life often takes its own unpredictable turns.Hollywood is a double-edged sword of glitz and glamour, yet it also harbors stories of struggle—stories of talented stars grappling with health and the pressures that come with fame. I've often mourned the loss of many beloved figures from the silver screen, each departure a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and stardom.As for Calvin Lane, I find myself pondering his journey. Is he still gracing the world with his presence? I hope fervently that he is doing well—after all, his sheer size was matched only by the warmth he radiated through his roles. The industry is robust, but it often fills the void left by those extraordinary individuals who once walked its stage. The world may have moved on, but there’s something truly timeless about giants like Calvin Lane and Michael Clarke Duncan—both are part of an unforgettable legacy.I’m Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to Ebonliner.

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• Rising Strong - The Spirit of Terence Crawford 11:15:24 6.05 PM

  Terence Crawford photo: Wikipedia CC BY 3.0Cover Design by: Gail NoblesStory by: Gail NoblesToday, as we face our own challenges, let us look to an incredible man who shows us what strength and determination truly mean—Terence Allan Crawford. Born in the lively city of Omaha on September 28, 1987, Terence is  a champion in the ring. He is a shining example of hope and proof that we can overcome any difficulties life throws at us.Terence has fought his way to the top, winning world titles in four different weight classes. He didn’t just stumble into success; he worked hard, fighting with every bit of strength he had. An undisputed champion, he reminds us that real strength isn’t about never falling, but about having the courage to stand up every time we do.Today, let us learn from Terence’s example. Life, like boxing, is a tough battle against things that try to hold us back. The blows may come; they may hit hard, but we must keep our heads held high, standing firm and focusing on our goals.Let the world throw its challenges our way, for we have strength in our hearts. Every setback is a lesson, and every fall is just a chance to get back up. Just as Terence has raised those championship belts, we too can own the triumphs in our own lives. We must not let our hardships define us.Like Terrence, we need to train our minds and spirits building determination in our toughest moments. Our true character shines through. Each day let us shine to be better, stronger, and unite in our fight for our dreams.When the final round comes, may we look back and say I gave it my own I face the struggle and came out not just surviving but thriving.Terence Crawford is one of only three male boxers in history to become the undisputed champion in two weight classes in the “four belt era.”Crawford was named fighter of the year by the Boxing Writers Association of America in 2014 and by ESPN in 2014 and 2017.Terrence Crawford resembles professional boxer Tommy Hearns, who fought from 1977 to 2006. There was a period when boxing seemed to be losing it appeal but seeing dedicated fighters like Terrence Crawford reignites my interest in the sport.Terence Crawford resembles professional boxer Tommy Hearns, who fought from 1977 to 2006. There was a period when boxing seemed to be losing its appeal, but seeing dedicated fighters like Terence Crawford reignites my interest in the sport.I'm Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to Ebonliner.

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