Category: What’s Up Doc?

I’m My Alter Ego for Halloween 2025: Alissa Fere

For many years, I’ve dressed up as a variety of characters. Halloween has always been my time to shine, a moment to embody creativity and personal expression. This year, my costume is more than just a look—it’s a personal release and a performance. I’m stepping into the shoes of someone known only to me: my alter ego, Alissa Fere.

In the past, I often chose costumes inspired by trending topics or cultural moments. This year, with the world feeling uncertain and chaotic, I wanted to create something meaningful and authentic rather than topical or morbid,  like an expired SNAP benefits card or an unemployed SSA employee.

Read: Get in the Spirit of Halloween: 5 Halloween Costumes by Doc

Despite the turmoil and challenges we face nationally, including the ongoing struggles since the Trump administration’s policies, I find hope in the resilience and solidarity of communities. Families in Oregon organize food drives, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the generosity in Maryland through my work with Instacart, delivering food to those in need. These acts of kindness inspire me to believe we can emerge stronger.

Since my son arrived, he’s developed a love for Halloween that mirrors my own. His costume had to be special—he requested to be a Happy Dragon. After weeks of interpreting what that meant, I transformed him into the happiest dragon I know. His creativity fuels mine, especially during this season.

Ro, The Happy Dragon and my sister dressed as a sim.

I chose to be his partner in crime this year. The Mother of Dragons herself visited my spirit, painting my hair blonde. I became Daenerys Targaryen, the fierce and complex character from George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire and the HBO series Game of Thrones. Walking alongside my son in this tradition, which my sister and I have cherished for three years, was truly magical.

The Many Faces of Halloween

Over the past decade, I’ve embodied many characters—from Tina Belcher of Bob’s Burgers to a Covid-19 germ, to cancel culture itself. Each costume tells a story, reflects a moment, or challenges a narrative.

Introducing Alissa Fere and the Official Mic Drop Video

With the release of “A Voice of My Own,” a free chapter from my memoir 4Da Streetz, I’m unveiling something special: my alter ego Alissa Fere and the official mic drop video for my very first music video.

Alissa Fere

Born in the Underground Dojo, Alissa Fere found her voice in Baltimore’s underground arts scene in the early 2010s. She is the alter ego of Taylor “Doc” Walker, founder of Doc’s Castle Media, and more than a name—she’s a reckoning.

For years, Alissa observed from the shadows, learning the grind and grace of artists around her while quietly nurturing her own lyrical fire. Now, she bursts forth with unapologetic boldness. Her music is raw, honest, and unfiltered—a declaration of selfhood, survival, and resistance against the silence polite society demands.

Alissa Fere doesn’t just write music. She tells it like it is. No filters. No apologies. Just her truth, amplified.

How to Engage with This Release

This Halloween, I’m not just dressing up—I’m stepping into my power and inviting you to witness the birth of Alissa Fere. Stay tuned for more creative releases and performances from Doc’s Castle Media.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

The Essay I Never Wrote—Until Now

I didn’t just write a chapter. I archived a moment. A Voice of My Own is live.

It’s been a long, awaited decade of trying to figure out my life as an artist while imagining how to showcase my view of the world. I am a writer, and those who support me know this well. Since 2013, I have published articles highlighting local Baltimore artists, appreciating various art forms from music to visual arts. I’ve always loved the environment of an artist’s space and enjoyed documenting my experiences within them.

As I mentioned earlier this year, I’m spending 2025 defining who Taylor, Doc, and Alissa Fere are to my supporters. I want to give everyone a clearer picture of what I envision.

Read: What’s Up Doc: Returning from Hiatus: A Personal Update revised from 2014

Artists are incredibly emotional. They experience life and tell stories in ways others are too afraid to share. One thing I know for sure is that I’ve never been someone to shy away from expressing myself. But there’s one part of my life that’s always been a secret—within my artistry.

I talk to myself and reflect often on why I chose to silence my own talents. I journal and sketch in my free time. Since the age of 10, I’ve created sanctuaries where I do my work. Yet, I still felt like I wasn’t truly being authentic to who I’m meant to be because my story doesn’t get told for others to see. But I can write a pretty good essay about someone else.

Now, it’s time for me to face my fears of letting people into the story of my alter ego’s origins. This is the beginning of Alissa Fere. 

4Da Streetz: A Voice of My Own (Ebook)

It started with a bottle of Jose, a college crush, and a verse that refused to stay quiet.

Voice of My Own is a standalone chapter from Taylor’s memoir-in-progress 4Da Streetz, capturing the night she stepped into Baltimore’s Underground Dojo and claimed her voice. Fueled by flirtation, frustration, and a half-written verse, she entered the booth not as a manager or stylist, but as an artist. The track was “Jose.” The moment was transformative.

This chapter unfolds in real time: from plotting on a friend’s couch to performing in a packed studio, surrounded by artists, smoke, and sound. It’s a lyrical portrait of authorship born in the middle of chaos. Taylor didn’t just record a song—she ruptured a silence. She stopped curating other people’s stories and started telling her own.

Set against the backdrop of Baltimore’s underground music scene, Voice of My Own explores persona, power, and the moment a woman decides she’s no longer just surviving—she’s narrating.

About the Author: Taylor is a writer, publisher, and founder of Doc’s Castle LLC, a creative house and publishing imprint amplifying memoir, music, and visual art. Her work explores matriarchal legacy, creative equity, and the power of personal storytelling. She is currently building a living archive through essays, music, and visual media that center resilience, authorship, and resistance.

Download Voice of My Own and hear the track that started it all. This isn’t just a chapter—it’s a timestamp in the archive.

Download A Voice of My Own for Free at any of the bookstores below.

Have you heard 4Da Streetz by Alissa Fere? Watch the lyric video below.

No Egos Spared: A Woman’s Voice in the Echo Chamber

No Egos Spared marks a turning point in my writing—a conscious shift toward clarity without sacrificing depth. Through layered storytelling and honest critique, I examine the raw fault lines of creative community, betrayal, and resilience. This piece doesn’t just tell—it demands attention, challenging conventions with a style shaped by experience and sharpened by purpose.

I let him see the blueprint to my dreams—unrolled it in front of him like sacred scripture. I thought we were building together. But he used the plans to wall me in. Am I doing it because I’m a Gemini? Is it Fere’ that you want to see?

In the rooms where sound is supposed to matter—studios, stages, writing circles—my voice was often the most inconvenient thing in the mix. Not because it lacked strength. But it wasn’t his, and I asked too many questions. I needed too much help. God forbid him doing anything beneath him. He claims that he’s above it.

We had history. The kind that blurs boundaries between romance and artistic kinship. I believed that intimacy and creativity could co-exist. That if I bared my struggles and ambitions, he’d respond with support—not possession.

But some men in this industry respond to uncertainty not with curiosity, but control. When they can’t predict me, they try to contain me. When they can’t mold my message, they challenge my value. My art becomes a threat, not because it’s loud, but because it’s mine.

His jealousy wasn’t thunderous—it was tactical. It crept in through gossip, manipulation, and the halting of collaborations. He began favor-banking our friendship, stacking emotional IOUs like poker chips because he’s his mother’s child. Every compliment came with a receipt. Every gesture, priced. I didn’t realize our connection had turned transactional until I stopped paying—and the interest he’d quietly collected came due. “I already do too much for you, Taylor.” Well, excuse me if you chose to buy my son cookies for Christmas last year. I didn’t ask.

His whispers traveled farther than my melodies. A man with too much time and too little grace, spinning tales like rollers in a salon chair—comparing, competing, resentful of what he couldn’t imitate. Telling tales to uncommon realism as if he knew realism at all. He’s stuck in a realm believing that becoming a leader will give him everything his yearning heart desires. But all he’s doing is waiting for his mommy’s approval.

As women, we are trained in the choreography of making ourselves digestible—smiling through dismissiveness, softening brilliance to seem less threatening, praising fragile egos while our confidence starves. Mother fucker, I was quiet enough listening to your whining.

But I’m done tiptoeing.

This isn’t an indictment. I’m not here to name or shame. This is an elegy for the kind of bond I thought we had—a goodbye to the version of friendship where love came without listening. Laughter in between the smoke now is just leftover ashes in my 2002 Chevy Malibu.

When I create, it’s not for approval. It’s survival. It’s reclamation. It’s medicine.

So yes—these words are intentional. These metaphors are machetes, clearing space for my expression. Consider this not an apology, but a declaration:

He thought blocking my art would trap me in his silence. But silence is a room—I’ve kicked down the door.

I will not be silenced.

I will not dilute my art for the comfort of any man, mentor, or self-proclaimed “best friend” who flinches at my full volume. 

My story will be told—with fire, with elegance, and without permission. I’ll leak it.

Words crafted in my declaration. I will make sure you drown in Fere’s abbess. Now, who really wants to play chess with the queen of Doc’s Castle?

Have you heard 4Da Streetz by Alissa Fere? Watch the lyric video below.

Baltimore Local ACT-SO: Mentorship, Creativity & Empowering Young Artists

Sixteen years after competing in ACT-SO, I returned—not as a contestant, but as a judge for the Baltimore Local Competition. Sitting on the other side of the table was a surreal experience, bringing back memories of the day I stood in the Newtown High School gymnasium, nervous as I prepared to meet the judges. I remember watching the other contestants, convinced I had no chance of winning. They seemed confident, prepared—everything I wasn’t sure I was at the time. But ACT-SO wasn’t just about competition; it was about mentorship, creativity, and preparing young artists for something beyond the moment.

Now, as a judge, I have the chance to witness new generations step into the same experience that shaped my journey. The impact of ACT-SO still runs deep. As I reflect on my path, I realize how much it influenced my confidence. It also impacted my career and creative voice. I want to share—from nervous competitor to mentor—and why I believe ACT-SO is an opportunity that should continue reaching young artists. I hope that more former participants reconnect, support the next wave of talent, and keep this legacy alive.

About NAACP ACT-SO

The NAACP ACT-SO is a nationwide program designed to nurture high school students’ talents in academics, culture, technology, and the arts. Over a year, participants collaborate with community mentors to develop visual arts, business, performing arts, and culinary arts projects. The journey culminates in local and national competitions where students showcase their work and compete for scholarships and awards.

Baltimore Local ACT-SO Competition

Baltimore’s ACT-SO program follows the same mission, providing students with mentorship and opportunities to refine their skills. Participants compete in one of 33 categories across six disciplines at the local level, with top performers advancing to the national competition.

Why ACT-SO?

In 2009, I was a contestant in the local Baltimore ACT-SO competition. I also participated in the national ACT-SO competition. This experience became a pivotal turning point in my journey. Joining ACT-SO introduced me to entrepreneurship and inspired me to build my own publication and art business. It was through this competition that I gained the foundational skills and knowledge to craft a blueprint for what I had always envisioned. ACT-SO also gave me my first real taste of networking, allowing me to connect with artists beyond my school and neighborhood. For the first time, I saw myself as part of a vast, vibrant community of Black youth. We were shaping the future together. I felt like a small fish in a big pond of limitless creativity and ambition.

At the award ceremony, I learned that participation in this year’s local ACT-SO competition was low—a reality that feels disheartening considering the profound impact the program had on my life. I’d like to believe the issue isn’t a lack of interest, but rather a lack of awareness. In the age of social media, that shouldn’t be the case. ACT-SO deserves to be in the conversation, accessible to teenagers just as readily as the latest viral trend or their favorite TikTok influencer. So I’m here to talk about it.

One of the most valuable aspects of ACT-SO was the mentorship. I had the privilege of learning from incredible mentors whose advice still resonates with me today. They didn’t just guide me through the competition—they shaped how I approach my creative and professional journey. Whether it was insights on storytelling, the art of networking, or the importance of owning my voice, their wisdom provided a strong foundation for my growth. Their encouragement helped me see beyond my immediate surroundings and recognize my potential. ACT-SO wasn’t just about showcasing talent—it was about cultivating it with the right guidance.

Throughout the school year that I participated, I worked closely with my entrepreneurship teacher to develop a business plan—one that ultimately helped me win the local ACT-SO competition. After that, I was paired with a judge who took my plan to the next level. As a consultant for the Maryland District Office of the Small Business Administration, he provided expert guidance, helping me refine every detail. Looking back, all I remember is a whole lot of editing—but that process shaped my understanding of what it takes to build a strong foundation for a business.

Watch Doc Judges the Baltimore Local ACT-SO Competition

How can you get involved?

ACT-SO continues to shape young artists, but it thrives on community support. If you’re a former participant, consider reconnecting. The Baltimore Local ACT-SO Competition is looking for volunteers and support for the national competition in July 2025. If you’d like to contribute, visit the NAACP’s official Baltimore Local ACT-SO Competition website to learn how you can help fund the next generation’s journey to the national competition in Charlotte, NC.

There are other major programs comparable to ACT-SO available for the youth in Baltimore City. Shout out some of your favorites in the comments. Let’s shed some light on that goodness.

Code and Canvas: Redefining Art Through Digital and Physical Fusion

Code and Canvas, a groundbreaking art exhibition, opened its doors this weekend at The Black Genius Art Show in Baltimore. As an avid art enthusiast, I was eager to explore the vibrant collection that bridges digital and physical art forms.

Sym curated the Code and Canvas Exhibition to connect with older art enthusiasts. When asked about her inspiration for creating this experience at The Black Genius Art Show, she explained, “to give a highlight to digital artists. There are a lot of elderly people who believe art online is not art because they don’t understand new styles of art unless it’s painting.” She further elaborated, “(The exhibit) gives off trickery because it confuses people when they find out it’s done digitally.”

This exhibit challenges common misconceptions, including the belief that younger generations lack appreciation for the arts. It showcases the diversity of artistic expression, emphasizing that art is constantly evolving, reaching new spaces, and adopting new mediums. Code and Canvas reminds us that as art transforms from physical to digital forms, we must adapt to and embrace these changes, especially as the Internet becomes a central platform for creativity.

Code and Canvas Experience

Code and Canvas fulfilled its purpose for me, and it has the potential to do the same for its intended audience. I visited the gallery to experience art that I frequently admire online but rarely encounter in traditional art galleries or exhibitions. This exhibit resonated deeply with me due to my love of hip-hop, as well as my appreciation for abstract art, vibrant colors, and comic book characters—all of which adorned the gallery walls. These styles are seldom showcased in larger, modern museums, making each design a captivating sight that left me in awe. For an older audience less engaged with the digital world and accustomed to viewing art solely in galleries, this exhibit bridges the gap by bringing the online art experience into a tangible, present-day form.

Pop-up exhibitions across Baltimore have seamlessly blended various artistic mediums, creating a vibrant mosaic that reflects the city’s evolving art culture. Code and Canvas exemplifies this trend, serving as a platform for dynamic collaborations. Local hip-hop artist Shon Ski found her creative home within this space, working alongside visual artists to bring her unique online presence into a tangible, physical form. Her debut performance, featuring her latest single, captivated the crowd and underscored the fusion of music and visual artistry at the heart of the exhibition. 

Shon Ski

Shon Ski is a hip-hop artist and audio engineer hailing from East Baltimore, MD. Her career began in 2016 as a media personality on Crown Media’s online talk show, Strong Way Radio, in Baltimore. In 2017, she expanded her platform by launching her own talk show, Run N Wild Radio, which aired on the 1500 Radio Network and showcased creatives from various mediums across the DMV area. Shortly after, Shon Ski emerged as a recording artist, debuting her first single, “Double Water,” produced by Madi. Her debut album, Somewhere Out There, produced by Bari Lutalo, was released on March 29, 2022, under Tenable Music. Shon Ski’s music is available on all digital streaming platforms and media outlets.

Would you like to see more of your favorite digital pieces in a local art gallery? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

What’s Up Doc: Returning from Hiatus: A Personal Update revised from 2014

For those curious about my reasons for taking a break, I’ve crafted a list just for you…. (I revised this from 2014. Talk about procrastination. It still applies.) Usually, I make a vision board in the new year. As March is the New Year for Doc’s Castle Media, I’m sharing my vision for the year. It’s not a vision board, but a video and list which shares what prompts me to go on my many hiatuses and my vision for 2025. 

Here’s my list…

Reason 1: The Media is Annoying

Being in the media has made me weary of it. I have a love-hate relationship with the news. Becoming the news has shown me a side of the media I can’t always respect. Everyone’s a critic, everyone’s nosy, and everyone’s chasing fame. There’s too much pressure on what’s true, while Doc’s Castle Media is just my commentary. Life has become about grabbing attention. It’s disheartening to see people change while seeking recognition, and I’m the middle person who has the power to influence that.

I want to write without hyperactive comments and concerns. I’m tired of the rush to cover stories and the hype of likes and views. I move at my own pace at Doc’s Castle Media. On my website, don’t bug me unless…$$$! Catch my drift?

Reason 2: Where is the Originality?

There’s a lack of originality. When I started blogging twelve years ago, I had it. Now, blogging is a new trend, like rapping, videography, photography, and other arts. I’m returning to the drawing board because everyone has a website, and we all do the same thing. But my website remains deeply personal because I want to do it MY WAY. Who else will write an article like this? Who else is going to dive into topics and discover the talents of other people like I do?!  Returning from this hiatus, please expect more unique content. You, the viewers, will see my originality. It’s time to get a little delusional for my viewers and let you into how I see life in my safe place in my Castle.

Reason 3: Lack of Resources and Consistent Help

I’m frustrated by the lack of resources. I hate depending on others and waiting for their help. I dislike working in groups (I learned that in school and networking with other creatives). It seems like a neverending story waiting for others to do their part often leads to disappointment.

A lack of resources forces me to teach myself things I’d rather not do. I just want to write, man. Why must I teach myself graphic or web design, video editing, or photography so my website looks how I want it? A whole publication? It’s fine once I learn it, but it distracts me from writing.

“Invest in your craft,” people say. But who has the money to get off the ground? Not me! So, years were put into learning how to produce a real publication. I deserve flowers for the years I put into what I’m passionate about. I’m coming for my crown.

Reason 4: Am I An Impostor?!

Many creatives can relate to the struggle of getting out of our heads and bringing our visions into the world. We’re constantly searching for ways to make what feels natural to us resonate as “normal” for everyone else. This is my way of life—not the way of life, if you know what I mean—so when life throws challenges my way, finding inspiration to climb out of a rut can feel impossible. There’s no clear guide or set of examples to follow when navigating mistakes for the creative I want to be. It’s taking me a long time to discover my creative “normal.”

As I break free from impostor syndrome and step boldly into reality, I declare to the world: This is who I am. There’s no rule book for becoming the person I aspire to be. I’m ready to be unapologetically myself, to stop hiding the parts of me that I’ve spent years questioning whether they were “cool enough.” With over 4.5K supporters behind me, I realize that maybe I am a little cool. So, here’s to step out further, for myself and for anyone who’s rooting for me. I’m learning to embrace just how cool I truly am.

As you can see, my frustrations have piled up, and the negativity has made me reconsider my approach. A huge question is pressing on my mind, and I haven’t figured out the answer yet due to this built-up frustration with running my castle. But I press forward anyway, with ideas ready to spill out for everyone to see. As always, we’ll see where my creative journey takes me.

Watch me be:

Taylor, Doc, Alissa Fere ❤

The Power of Art: How We Saved the Creative Collective Art Gallery

I initially came as a vendor for Doc’s Castle Media to participate in a pop-up shop. Little did I know that my adventure would transform into an act of activism to save a beloved community space for Myrrh Made Queen and numerous artists in Baltimore.

The Creative Collective Art Gallery was on the brink of closing when I saw a Facebook post by Myrrh. She was offering a pop-up show space to any artist willing to participate in a protest to save the gallery. For the past year, the gallery had been a vibrant hub for artisans in the city, showcasing their creative talents and handmade crafts.

Creative Collective

The Creative Collective Art Gallery is the home and artistic haven of the Creative Collective Commyrrhnity, founded by Myrrh Made Queen in 2024 as an artist collective in Baltimore specializing in crafts such as body art, face painting, and canvas and mural artistry. The gallery provides a vibrant platform for artisans from all over the city to collaborate and showcase their talents alongside Myrrh Made Queen’s brand. 

The Creative Collective has become home to a plethora of canvas art events in the emergence of Sips and Paints, sparking excitement within the creative community. Events such as Sip and Paints, lively Karaoke and Paints, and even the energetic Twerk and Paint sessions are a testament to the lively and inclusive atmosphere the space fosters, which has kept the gallery full of life.

Myrrh Made Queen

MyrrhMade, pronounced like mermaid, is a freelance artist and owner of MyrrhMadeArt LLC. 

She specializes in a diverse range of painting techniques, from body and face paint to canvas art and murals. MyrrhMade isn’t just an artist—she’s an inspiration. Hosting a series of art events that champion self-love and liberation, her creations are designed to heal and uplift.

I love to dive into the lives of my fellow artists through social media, and Myrrh Made Queen stands out as one of the most genuine and raw talents you’ll encounter. If you’ve ever watched her Instagram stories, you’ll know she shares her authentic self daily, offering followers a glimpse into the life of an artist in Baltimore City. She doesn’t just create art—she lives it, embodying the essence of a true MyrrhMade.

What I admire about Myrrh is her uniqueness and resilience. She has built a dedicated following despite the challenges she’s faced. Her journey hasn’t always been smooth, but she exemplifies tenacity and the power of carving out your own path. As we watch her continue her journey, she inspires us all with her story of survival and success as a full-time freelance artist.

Saving The Creative Collective

When I walked into the Creative Collective, Myrrh shared her grievances about losing the gallery due to her business partner’s decision not to continue renting the space together. The landlord was unwilling to renew the lease without both partners’ signatures and planned an open house on President’s Day for potential tenants to tour the building.

In response, Myrrh transformed her impromptu pop-up shop into an act of activism to save her gallery. The creatives hoped that prospective tenants would be more interested in the art rather than renting the gallery. The idea was that if the landlord saw how the space brought life and vibrancy to the community, he might reconsider and lease the gallery solely to MyrrhMade.

When the prospective clients arrived that day, their curiosity turned towards the artists’ activities. They visited artist tables, inquired about creative works, and showed a genuine interest in the art rather than the lease. The open house ran for an hour before the landlord made an offer to Myrrh to lease the space for the rest of the month of February and March in the Charles Village community. The protest was a resounding success for MyrrhMade Queen.

Being part of the activism to save the gallery felt incredible. My son got to transform into his favorite Marvel character, Spider-man, and watch his mommy in action at work. Plus, I had the opportunity to sell some Doc’s Castle Art!

If you are an artist looking for a venue to host your event, the Creative Collective offers a welcoming space for the month of March. Just reach out to MyrrhMade Queen for inquiries.

Have you watched Last Call: Ex-Factor? Read Exploring Last Call: The Trivia Show That Unites Friends on Doc’s Castle Media.

*Article was reedited and republished March 4, 2025.

Just a Marvelous Time with Marvelous Oak (A Black Owned Wine Tasting Event)

During my visit to the Reisterstown Wine and Beer Tasting in 2023, I expressed the need for more wine festivals in Baltimore. It seems I’ve spoken a new wine tasting into existence by attending the annual Marvelous Oak Mo Wyne Cookout.

The Need for More Wine Festivals

Baltimore should have more wine and spirit tastings, particularly those featuring Black-owned businesses. I was fortunate to come across Marvin Parker in my ventures with alcohol last year. It led me to this wonderful event.

[Read We Need More Wine Festivals In Baltimore (A Doc’s Castle Recap) on Doc’s Castle Media]

Marvin Parker owns the Marvelous Oak Wine brand. I was thrilled to attend the Annual Marvelous Oak Cookout last summer. I loved seeing Black people enjoying themselves with cups of Marvelous Oak wine in hand.

The Marvelous Oak Experience

The star that sat gloriously in my cup was Marvelous Oak’s semi-sweet Malbec wine. At the picnic table, guests found a pitcher filled with sangria, using Marvelous Oak as its main ingredient. I enjoyed a cup while dining at the barbecue and watching the festivities. The atmosphere was lively, with guests grooving to line dances, playing UNO, and simply having a great time. The wine was smooth and stealthy, perfect for an enjoyable day.

Watch the 1st Annual Mo Wyne Cookout

About Marvelous Oak Wine Co.

Founded in 2022 by Marvin Parker, Marvelous Oak is a boutique wine brand dedicated to crafting exceptional, small-batch wines made entirely by hand. With a Level 2 WSET certification, Marvin brings expertise and passion to every bottle, ensuring a unique and memorable experience for wine lovers. Marvelous Oak also hosts exclusive wine-tasting events that highlight the artistry behind each vintage.

Posted on the Marvelous Oak Instagram page, there are details about an upcoming tasting event planned for March 29th! 

Have you been to any wine and spirit festivals in your town? Share your favorites in the comments below!

Exploring Last Call: The Trivia Show That Unites Friends

Well, well, well. We meet again, Mr. Karlito Freeze. This time, in a thrilling challenge thrown down by another Baltimore artist, Symone Hardy of Graphite Pulse.

In 2017, Doc’s Castle Media featured Karlito Freeze because we collaborated on a podcast when he was a former “intimate.” Whiskey Girl hosted the podcast back then, and things were a bit different with Mr. Freeze and me.

Listen to #LoveandHipHop Baltimore Featuring #StrongWayRadio and #DocsCastleMedia on Embrace the Crazy Podcast by Whiskey Girl (Gallery)

After years of silence over obvious things (our breakup), I reconnected with songwriter and aspiring multimedia mogul Karlito Freeze on a few art projects this year, with Last Call being one of our standout collaborations.

The chemistry between Freeze and me is unmatched and worthy of celebration. It’s why we return for Last Call Season 1 to showcase the same fire we exhibit on Ex Factor. It’s an exceptional example of building bonds beyond emotionally impactful differences we may have faced in the past. As a story may appear to end one way, it doesn’t mean it has to be the end all be all.

Sym’s, the host of Last Call, work is already so inspirational in Baltimore City. She captivates me because she’s a Baltimore Creative, just like me. You know, I love our people. I heard of Last Call from Freeze when he told me Sym was creating an experience bringing people together that I haven’t seen many people in Baltimore do before. I’m walking into the experience blind, not knowing what to expect, and only being told my opponent is my ex in a Trivia game. All that’s next came a gesture of the birdman hand rub and a declaration to Freeze that it was now, “Game on!”

Who knew I’d be such a trivia beast? Not me! It’s all thanks to the countless hours of Wheel of Fortune playing in the background at my grandparents’ house growing up. Trivia knowledge whispers to me even in my sleep. Freeze didn’t have a chance. The Graphite Pulse Last Call experience brings people together for a good time and plenty of laughter. I had a blast and would do it again if invited.

Who is Graphite Pulse?

Graphite Pulse is an art platform run by multimedia artist Sym, showcasing her art practices and the events she attends due to her incredible talents.

Follow Sym’s Instagram!

Last Call

Last Call is a lively trivia game show that brings people together for a night of fun, laughter, and mystery! With three exciting rounds, each featuring five random and entertaining trivia questions, players are tested on their knowledge across a wide variety of topics. But there’s a twist—the contestant with the lowest score at the end of each round must drink a mystery shot, adding an element of surprise and humor to the game. Perfect for families, friends, and communities, Last Call is all about creating connections, sparking friendly competition, and building camaraderie.

Watch Last Call: Ex Factor

How do you feel about couples collaborating on projects for their brands? Do you think it can be done? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

We Need More Wine Festivals in Baltimore (A Doc’s Castle Recap)

Doc’s back to drinking after her hiatus during pregnancy with taste-testing spirits at the 2nd Annual Reisterstown Beer and Wine Festival.

I enjoy trying new drinks at social events with my family and friends. As something slight for me to do the weekend after my birthday at the last minute, attending a wine festival fills the void I have to go outside with “my ass ratchet friends” when needed. I went to the 2nd Annual Reisterstown Beer and Wine Festival with my sister to fill that need to leave my house after being inside most of 2023 with an infant. The event’s crowd was good, and with a purchased unlimited taste testers ticket, I felt good amidst the crowd.

There were a total of 8 to 10 vendor booths for wine connoisseurs to venture into. I’m highlighting two that were my favorite to visit. But overall, it was a good amount of vendors to spend a good Saturday afternoon getting tipsy.

Tipsy Teacher

Tipsy Teacher is a group of teachers who love wine and created a brand to help provide resources for teachers in need. Proceeds from purchases of wines from anything in their collection went to buying supplies for classrooms.

Misfit Winery Coconut Wine

Misfit Winery is a company a person who frequently attends festivals in Maryland might see often as a vendor. They’re a famous winery that I found packs their event calendar on their site with dates of where their wine is featured. I enjoyed their Coconut Wine. I decided to purchase this one to take home.

Overall my experience could have been longer. We spent 2 and half hours at a wine festival, and I thought we’d be there a little longer. I just didn’t feel the need to continue visiting the same 10 booths after I did a round of seconds. Maybe there were so few selections of spirits because this was only their 2nd annual beer and wine festival. But the lack of variety caused us to make our exit early.

Don’t get me wrong. There are many Beer and Wine Festivals for people to attend throughout Maryland. Baltimore recently hosted its first Wine Village in the middle of the Inner Harbor. I also attended The Secret Garden Weekend Wine Fest in Westminster, MD. It’s just that my experience warranted me to say we need more because this one, in particular, wasn’t too great.

Watch We Need More Wine Festivals in Baltimore via Doc’s Castle Media YouTube Channel.