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(February 17, 2005)
J-LO'S TAKEN ILL: Singer cancels
European tour; Gere offered shoulder
during Bennifer breakup.
European tour; Gere offered shoulder
during Bennifer breakup.
*First Michael, now J-Lo. Not
even 24 hours after the King of Pop
was knocked into a Santa Maria
hospital by "flu-like symptoms,"
Jennifer Lopez announced the
cancellation of Wednesday's London
premiere of "Shall We Dance" as well
as her forthcoming European concert
tour due to an unspecified "illness."
"I very much wanted to be in
London today but unfortunately I'm
not well," she said in a statement
released by Buena Vista International,
the movie's distributor. "At the
advice of my doctors I'm unable to
travel. Being sick has also caused me
to cancel my European album tour.
Please accept my sincerest apologies
as I have to remain in Los Angeles."
Lopez, who would not detail the
nature of her illness, performed a
duet with husband Marc Anthony Sunday
at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles,
and previewed her new clothing line
Sweetface at New York on Friday.
even 24 hours after the King of Pop
was knocked into a Santa Maria
hospital by "flu-like symptoms,"
Jennifer Lopez announced the
cancellation of Wednesday's London
premiere of "Shall We Dance" as well
as her forthcoming European concert
tour due to an unspecified "illness."
"I very much wanted to be in
London today but unfortunately I'm
not well," she said in a statement
released by Buena Vista International,
the movie's distributor. "At the
advice of my doctors I'm unable to
travel. Being sick has also caused me
to cancel my European album tour.
Please accept my sincerest apologies
as I have to remain in Los Angeles."
Lopez, who would not detail the
nature of her illness, performed a
duet with husband Marc Anthony Sunday
at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles,
and previewed her new clothing line
Sweetface at New York on Friday.
As previously reported, her new
album "Rebirth" is due March 1.
Meanwhile, Gere went on to
Meanwhile, Gere went on to
attend the "Shall We Dance?" premiere
without his ailing co-star, but her
presence was still felt in the questions
without his ailing co-star, but her
presence was still felt in the questions
thrown his way by the press. When
asked how she fared during her
highly-publicized breakup with Ben
Affleck - which happened during the
filming of "Shall We Dance?" - he
said she maintained her cool on set.
"She was very professional.
highly-publicized breakup with Ben
Affleck - which happened during the
filming of "Shall We Dance?" - he
said she maintained her cool on set.
"She was very professional.
I mean, you could see clearly that
this young woman was going through
a lot of stuff, but she never brought her
private problems into the workplace,"
he told reporters. "I remember there
were days when I would just go to
private problems into the workplace,"
he told reporters. "I remember there
were days when I would just go to
her and give her a hug, and you
could feel the tension start
to let go."
"Shall We Dance?" opens
"Shall We Dance?" opens
in the UK tomorrow.
OMAROSA SAYS REALITY SHOWS
STEREOTYPE BLACKS: 'Apprentice'
star sees pattern with portrayals.
*"Once you start looking at how
all the black men are lazy and laid-back
all the black men are lazy and laid-back
and nonassertive and nonaggressive
and all the black women are quite the
opposite, I think there is a pattern,"
Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth, the
dubious diva of the first season of
"The Apprentice" said Wednesday.
Conducting a telephone press
conference to promote her appearance
on a Feb. 28 episode of "Fear Factor,"
Omarosa instead fielded questions
about her controversial run on the
first season's of Donald Trump's
glorified job interview. Citing a
current black female contestant
and all the black women are quite the
opposite, I think there is a pattern,"
Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth, the
dubious diva of the first season of
"The Apprentice" said Wednesday.
Conducting a telephone press
conference to promote her appearance
on a Feb. 28 episode of "Fear Factor,"
Omarosa instead fielded questions
about her controversial run on the
first season's of Donald Trump's
glorified job interview. Citing a
current black female contestant
as an example, Omarosa said black
contestants seemed to be ignored
contestants seemed to be ignored
by the cameras if they don't fall into
a certain stereotype. Based on
subsequent comments, it appeared
obvious that she was referring to Tara,
a New York City government employee.
"She was kind of crying, saying,
'They're not showing me at all and
subsequent comments, it appeared
obvious that she was referring to Tara,
a New York City government employee.
"She was kind of crying, saying,
'They're not showing me at all and
I did all the right things,'" Manigault-
Stallworth said. "She's well-behaved,
well-spoken, she doesn't argue with
anybody," Omarosa continues, and she
is getting "absolutely no air time."
The depiction of current
contestant Verna, who quit during the
show's second episode citing stress
and exhaustion, made Omarosa cringe
"in the biggest way." She said the
depiction of Verna as a quitter
supported her theory of black folks
being purposely portrayed in
Stallworth said. "She's well-behaved,
well-spoken, she doesn't argue with
anybody," Omarosa continues, and she
is getting "absolutely no air time."
The depiction of current
contestant Verna, who quit during the
show's second episode citing stress
and exhaustion, made Omarosa cringe
"in the biggest way." She said the
depiction of Verna as a quitter
supported her theory of black folks
being purposely portrayed in
a negative fashion on reality
television.
"I think this is more of an
extension of what's happening overall
in Hollywood," Manigault-Stallworth
said. "There's not a whole lot of roads
for black women on television, and the
roads that are presented don't always
seem to be positive."
"I think this is more of an
extension of what's happening overall
in Hollywood," Manigault-Stallworth
said. "There's not a whole lot of roads
for black women on television, and the
roads that are presented don't always
seem to be positive."
ENGINEER SUES OVER DENIED 'GENIUS'
CREDIT: Man says slight kept him from
Grammy glory.
CREDIT: Man says slight kept him from
Grammy glory.
*In the end, it all comes down to
"recorded by" vs. "additional engineer."
Mark Fleming, a studio engineer
who worked on Ray Charles' last studio
album "Genius Loves Company," says
Concord Music Group and Ray Charles
Enterprises promised him full credit in
the form of "recorded by" for any songs
he worked on. But when the CD was
released, Concord allegedly told him
that the final cut did not contain any
of his work, so Fleming agreed to
lower the price for his services.
Cut to last Sunday night, when
"Genius Loves Company" picks up
"recorded by" vs. "additional engineer."
Mark Fleming, a studio engineer
who worked on Ray Charles' last studio
album "Genius Loves Company," says
Concord Music Group and Ray Charles
Enterprises promised him full credit in
the form of "recorded by" for any songs
he worked on. But when the CD was
released, Concord allegedly told him
that the final cut did not contain any
of his work, so Fleming agreed to
lower the price for his services.
Cut to last Sunday night, when
"Genius Loves Company" picks up
eight out of 10 Grammy nominations
- including production awards for
arrangement, surround sound and
engineering.
Fleming's "additional engineering"
credit kept him from taking home a
statue, and for that, he filed a lawsuit
against Concord Music Group and Ray
Charles Enterprises (which administers
the late singer's business interests)
alleging breach of oral contract and
negligent misrepresentation.
In the suit, Fleming said the
album did in fact contain his work on
songs like "Here We Go Again" and "Sweet
Potato Pie," for which he was given only
the "additional engineer" credit.
A Concord spokesperson said the label
did everything possible to make sure all
those who contributed to the creation of
"Genius Loves Company" received the
appropriate credit. "To that end, the
plaintiff's credits were verified to be
accurate prior to the release of the
arrangement, surround sound and
engineering.
Fleming's "additional engineering"
credit kept him from taking home a
statue, and for that, he filed a lawsuit
against Concord Music Group and Ray
Charles Enterprises (which administers
the late singer's business interests)
alleging breach of oral contract and
negligent misrepresentation.
In the suit, Fleming said the
album did in fact contain his work on
songs like "Here We Go Again" and "Sweet
Potato Pie," for which he was given only
the "additional engineer" credit.
A Concord spokesperson said the label
did everything possible to make sure all
those who contributed to the creation of
"Genius Loves Company" received the
appropriate credit. "To that end, the
plaintiff's credits were verified to be
accurate prior to the release of the
CD more than six months ago,"
the spokesperson said.
SNOOP, MARY J. ON NEW WILL SMITH LP
'Hitch' star details 'Lost and Found' project.
'Hitch' star details 'Lost and Found' project.
*Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige and
Timbaland turn up in the "Lost and Found,"
the name of Will Smith's first rap album
in three years and first for Interscope
since leaving his longtime home,
Timbaland turn up in the "Lost and Found,"
the name of Will Smith's first rap album
in three years and first for Interscope
since leaving his longtime home,
Columbia.
Due March 29, the set features
first single "Switch," produced by Kwame
(Amel Larrieux, Bootsy Collins). Elephant
Man appears on one remix, while Robin
Thicke jumps on a separate R&B reworking.
Snoop joins Big Willie on "Pump Ya Breaks,"
while Blige assists the Fresh Prince on
an as-yet-unnamed song, reports
"Billboard."
His old partner DJ Jazzy Jeff and
Timbaland are among the producers who
worked on the project, which he tells
"Billboard," "features the most in-depth,
revealing writing that I've done in my
career." Smith said he wrote over 50
tracks for the album that reportedly
attempts to de-emphasize his
Due March 29, the set features
first single "Switch," produced by Kwame
(Amel Larrieux, Bootsy Collins). Elephant
Man appears on one remix, while Robin
Thicke jumps on a separate R&B reworking.
Snoop joins Big Willie on "Pump Ya Breaks,"
while Blige assists the Fresh Prince on
an as-yet-unnamed song, reports
"Billboard."
His old partner DJ Jazzy Jeff and
Timbaland are among the producers who
worked on the project, which he tells
"Billboard," "features the most in-depth,
revealing writing that I've done in my
career." Smith said he wrote over 50
tracks for the album that reportedly
attempts to de-emphasize his
squeaky-clean image.
One track, "Mr. Nice Guy," is said
to discuss "how people mistake being
One track, "Mr. Nice Guy," is said
to discuss "how people mistake being
nice for being soft."
A DAY FIT FOR A KING: State of
Mississippi gives B.B. his own day.
*There's another King Day on the
calendar in Mississippi. The state House
and Senate gathered at the Capitol building
calendar in Mississippi. The state House
and Senate gathered at the Capitol building
Tuesday to declare February 15 B.B. King Day.
"I never learned to talk very well
without Lucille," said a tearful King of
his trusty guitar. "But today, I'm trying
to say only God knows how I feel.
"I never learned to talk very well
without Lucille," said a tearful King of
his trusty guitar. "But today, I'm trying
to say only God knows how I feel.
I am so happy."
King said he hadn't shed tears
since the funeral of Ray Charles.
"That was tears of sorrow," King
said. "Today, it was tears of joy."
The 79-year-old Delta native was
also honored by lawmakers and Gov. Haley
Barbour during a ceremony Tuesday in the
Senate chamber.
King said he hadn't shed tears
since the funeral of Ray Charles.
"That was tears of sorrow," King
said. "Today, it was tears of joy."
The 79-year-old Delta native was
also honored by lawmakers and Gov. Haley
Barbour during a ceremony Tuesday in the
Senate chamber.
RETIREMENT OVER FOR JAY-Z?
Def Jam pres plans to record again.
*"When I come back like Jordan,
wearin' the 4-5, it ain't to play games
with you."
This line from "Encore" should've
been our first clue that Jay-Z had no
plans to stay "retired" from making rap
records. The new Island Def Jam President
told the "New York Post's" Page Six that
he'll be back on the mike soon enough.
"I won't tour, and I am taking a
break, but I'll be back," he told the
newspaper. "I am planning on
wearin' the 4-5, it ain't to play games
with you."
This line from "Encore" should've
been our first clue that Jay-Z had no
plans to stay "retired" from making rap
records. The new Island Def Jam President
told the "New York Post's" Page Six that
he'll be back on the mike soon enough.
"I won't tour, and I am taking a
break, but I'll be back," he told the
newspaper. "I am planning on
recording again."
Word has it that we'll see a new
studio album from Jigga by the end of
this year, which would follow up a
smattering of freestyle rhymes released
on the Internet since his post "Black
Album" retirement in 2003.
Word has it that we'll see a new
studio album from Jigga by the end of
this year, which would follow up a
smattering of freestyle rhymes released
on the Internet since his post "Black
Album" retirement in 2003.
MIJAC SPRUNG FROM THE HOSPITAL
Singer released after two-day stay; court
resumes Feb. 22.
resumes Feb. 22.
*Early Wednesday, Michael Jackson
stuck his hand through a sliver of curtain
stuck his hand through a sliver of curtain
in his Santa Maria hospital room to give
his adoring fans below a peace sign.
Several hours later, the King of
Pop was released from the hospital,
where he was being treated for flu-like
symptoms.
"Mr. Jackson continues to be in
stable condition and remains under
observation at this time. He continues
to need care for some persistent viral
symptoms, but otherwise he's in good
spirits," the doctor said.
Jackson managed to slip past
reporters and photographers and into
one of two black SUVs that pulled up
to a hospital loading dock out of
sight of the news media.
Jackson was rushed to the
hospital early Monday while en route
to his trial on child molestation
charges. His illness caused jury
selection in his child molestation
trial to be delayed for a week, until
Feb. 22.
Pop was released from the hospital,
where he was being treated for flu-like
symptoms.
"Mr. Jackson continues to be in
stable condition and remains under
observation at this time. He continues
to need care for some persistent viral
symptoms, but otherwise he's in good
spirits," the doctor said.
Jackson managed to slip past
reporters and photographers and into
one of two black SUVs that pulled up
to a hospital loading dock out of
sight of the news media.
Jackson was rushed to the
hospital early Monday while en route
to his trial on child molestation
charges. His illness caused jury
selection in his child molestation
trial to be delayed for a week, until
Feb. 22.
ITTY BITTY BITS: House boosts
indecency fine; Mos Def trailer;
indecency fine; Mos Def trailer;
new 'Black Beat'; Chappelle's
return; black Neilsen numbers.
*With Janet Jackson's Super Bowl
highbeam lighting the way, the House
overwhelmingly passed a bill Wednesday
authorizing humongous fines for indecency.
highbeam lighting the way, the House
overwhelmingly passed a bill Wednesday
authorizing humongous fines for indecency.
The measure, which passed 389-38 with
bipartisan support, boosts the maximum
fine from $32,500 to $500,000 for
a company and from $11,000
a company and from $11,000
to $500,000 for an individual
entertainer.
*You have until Friday to catch
a glimpse of Mos Def in the trailer
for his next flick ""The Hitchhiker's
Guide to the Galaxy," running
exclusively on Amazon.com through
Friday. The film, about an Earthman
(Martin Freeman) who discovers the
meaning of life in outer space, hits
theatres April 29.
*"Black Beat" magazine will hit
newsstands next month with a new
entertainer.
*You have until Friday to catch
a glimpse of Mos Def in the trailer
for his next flick ""The Hitchhiker's
Guide to the Galaxy," running
exclusively on Amazon.com through
Friday. The film, about an Earthman
(Martin Freeman) who discovers the
meaning of life in outer space, hits
theatres April 29.
*"Black Beat" magazine will hit
newsstands next month with a new
look, thanks to the recent appointment
of editor Danica Daniel. Beginning with
its June issue, scheduled for release
on March 15, the 33-year-old urban
entertainment magazine has been
redesigned "to appeal to the tech-savvy,
sophisticated and fashion-forward
urbanista," said a statement. "Now,
'Black Beat' adds a sense of community
to its pages, inviting readers to
contribute their own stories of triumph
and struggle to its editorial coverage,"
notes Daniel.
*Comedy Central is denying
rumors that writer's block is keeping
Dave Chappelle from premiering the
its June issue, scheduled for release
on March 15, the 33-year-old urban
entertainment magazine has been
redesigned "to appeal to the tech-savvy,
sophisticated and fashion-forward
urbanista," said a statement. "Now,
'Black Beat' adds a sense of community
to its pages, inviting readers to
contribute their own stories of triumph
and struggle to its editorial coverage,"
notes Daniel.
*Comedy Central is denying
rumors that writer's block is keeping
Dave Chappelle from premiering the
next season of the "Chappelle Show."
In response to talk that the comedian
was struggling to top the tremendous
success of his first two seasons,
Comedy Central spokesman Tony
success of his first two seasons,
Comedy Central spokesman Tony
Fox put the speculation to rest, telling
the "New York Post" that Chappelle and
writing partner Neil Brennan are hard
at work this week in anticipation of
the premiere on May 31.
*What are black folks watching
on TV? According to Neilsen, it's the
same show all of America is watching
writing partner Neil Brennan are hard
at work this week in anticipation of
the premiere on May 31.
*What are black folks watching
on TV? According to Neilsen, it's the
same show all of America is watching
- "American Idol." The talent show
was the highest-rated program in black
households, and ranked No. 1 in the
overall Neilson ratings during the second
households, and ranked No. 1 in the
overall Neilson ratings during the second
week of February. The Tuesday and
Wednesday editions of "Idol" (at first
and third place respectively) together
drew 6.2 million viewers, while
Tuesday's edition beat the
Grammy Awards at second
place.
Here are the top ten shows
among black households for the
Here are the top ten shows
among black households for the
second week of Feb:
1. American Idol-Tuesday FOX (3.2
million viewers)
2. Grammy Awards CBS (2.7)
3. American Idol-Wednesday FOX (2.7)
4. Girlfriends UPN (2.2)
5. Half and Half UPN (2.0)
6. One on One UPN (2.0)
7. House FOX (1.8)
8. One on One (1.7)
9. CSI CBS (1.7)
10. Without A Trace (1.7)
1. American Idol-Tuesday FOX (3.2
million viewers)
2. Grammy Awards CBS (2.7)
3. American Idol-Wednesday FOX (2.7)
4. Girlfriends UPN (2.2)
5. Half and Half UPN (2.0)
6. One on One UPN (2.0)
7. House FOX (1.8)
8. One on One (1.7)
9. CSI CBS (1.7)
10. Without A Trace (1.7)
SPORTS BEAT: Venus's Antwerp
advance; 'S.I.' layout; Mitchell to retire
a Redskin; Williams must pay; Rolle
arrested; Shaq searching.
*Venus Williams had no problem
knocking off France's Virginie Razzano
at the Diamond Games in Antwerp,
Belgium Wednesday, winning 6-3, 6-0
arrested; Shaq searching.
*Venus Williams had no problem
knocking off France's Virginie Razzano
at the Diamond Games in Antwerp,
Belgium Wednesday, winning 6-3, 6-0
to advance to the quarterfinals, and one
step closer to the $1.3 million gold-
and-diamond trophy. Williams will next
face Belgian Kim Clijsters.
Meanwhile, Venus appears in a
three-page layout in the latest "Sports
Illustrated" swimsuit issue, on
newsstands now. The tennis diva appears
with Australian basketball hero Lauren
Jackson.
NBA star Richard Jefferson and
the NFL's Keyshawn Johnson were pictured
with their favorite females elsewhere
step closer to the $1.3 million gold-
and-diamond trophy. Williams will next
face Belgian Kim Clijsters.
Meanwhile, Venus appears in a
three-page layout in the latest "Sports
Illustrated" swimsuit issue, on
newsstands now. The tennis diva appears
with Australian basketball hero Lauren
Jackson.
NBA star Richard Jefferson and
the NFL's Keyshawn Johnson were pictured
with their favorite females elsewhere
in the magazine.
*As of press time, Cleveland
Cavaliers forward LeBron James still
hadn't decided whether he would
participate in the NBA's All-Star dunk
contest this weekend in Denver. "It is
a 'yes or no' answer," said James, who
has been asked about the contest every
day for the past few weeks. "I just
haven't decided if I'll do it or not.
You know me, I'm a last-minute person."
*The NFL's leading career return
man Brian Mitchell, who earned his
stripes as a Washington Redskin before
his bitter exit in 2000, signed a one-
day contract with his former team so
that he could retire as a Redskin. "The
love I received from fans in this area
let me know that I couldn't do it any
other way," the 14-year veteran said
Wednesday. Mitchell, who played for the
Philadelphia Eagles from 2000-02, and
the New York Giants in 2003, holds 13
NFL records, including kickoff returns
(607) and yards (14,014) and punt
returns (463) and yards (4,999).
Mitchell will stay involved in football,
working as an assistant general manager
for the D.C. Divas of the National
Women's Football Association.
*A federal judge on Tuesday
upheld an arbitration ruling that
ordered Ricky Williams to repay the
Miami Dolphins $8.6 million in bonus
money he pocketed without stepping foot
on the field this season. U.S. District
Judge James Cohn ruled arbitrator
Richard Bloch was "well within the
scope of his authority" when he ruled
in September that Williams breached his
contract by abruptly retiring. Attorney
Jeffrey Kessler, representing the NFL
Players' Association, said a decision
would be made in the next several days
regarding whether to appeal Cohn's
ruling.
*Tennessee Titans cornerback
Samari Rolle was arrested Tuesday on
assault charges after a Valentine's Day
fight with his wife, authorities said.
Police said Danisha Rolle, 27, was
treated for a cut over her left eye and
released from Baptist Hospital in
Nashville Monday night. Hospital
personnel contacted Brentwood Police,
who obtained a warrant after a
preliminary investigation. Rolle turned
himself in on a single misdemeanor
charge of simple assault. The 27-year-
old posted $1,000 bond and was released.
If convicted, he faces probation up to
11 months and 29 days in jail.
*Shaquille O'Neal and Nestle
Crunch are looking for the hottest teen
ballers during Saturday's NBA All-Star
2005 Jam Session. Male and female
hoopsters ages 12-19 who want to show
off their skills will have the
opportunity to be taped and entered into
the 2005 Nestle Crunch Hot Shots contest
throughout 2005 NBA All-Star Weekend at
the Sport Court area on Saturday, Feb.
19, from 3-4 pm and Sunday, Feb. 20,
from 1-2 pm. Ten contestants will win
the opportunity to attend the Nestle
Crunch Hot Shots Camp in Miami, an Xbox,
a Nestle Crunch Hot Shots Camp jersey, a
Shaq-autographed basketball and a photo
taken with Big Aristotle himself.
*As of press time, Cleveland
Cavaliers forward LeBron James still
hadn't decided whether he would
participate in the NBA's All-Star dunk
contest this weekend in Denver. "It is
a 'yes or no' answer," said James, who
has been asked about the contest every
day for the past few weeks. "I just
haven't decided if I'll do it or not.
You know me, I'm a last-minute person."
*The NFL's leading career return
man Brian Mitchell, who earned his
stripes as a Washington Redskin before
his bitter exit in 2000, signed a one-
day contract with his former team so
that he could retire as a Redskin. "The
love I received from fans in this area
let me know that I couldn't do it any
other way," the 14-year veteran said
Wednesday. Mitchell, who played for the
Philadelphia Eagles from 2000-02, and
the New York Giants in 2003, holds 13
NFL records, including kickoff returns
(607) and yards (14,014) and punt
returns (463) and yards (4,999).
Mitchell will stay involved in football,
working as an assistant general manager
for the D.C. Divas of the National
Women's Football Association.
*A federal judge on Tuesday
upheld an arbitration ruling that
ordered Ricky Williams to repay the
Miami Dolphins $8.6 million in bonus
money he pocketed without stepping foot
on the field this season. U.S. District
Judge James Cohn ruled arbitrator
Richard Bloch was "well within the
scope of his authority" when he ruled
in September that Williams breached his
contract by abruptly retiring. Attorney
Jeffrey Kessler, representing the NFL
Players' Association, said a decision
would be made in the next several days
regarding whether to appeal Cohn's
ruling.
*Tennessee Titans cornerback
Samari Rolle was arrested Tuesday on
assault charges after a Valentine's Day
fight with his wife, authorities said.
Police said Danisha Rolle, 27, was
treated for a cut over her left eye and
released from Baptist Hospital in
Nashville Monday night. Hospital
personnel contacted Brentwood Police,
who obtained a warrant after a
preliminary investigation. Rolle turned
himself in on a single misdemeanor
charge of simple assault. The 27-year-
old posted $1,000 bond and was released.
If convicted, he faces probation up to
11 months and 29 days in jail.
*Shaquille O'Neal and Nestle
Crunch are looking for the hottest teen
ballers during Saturday's NBA All-Star
2005 Jam Session. Male and female
hoopsters ages 12-19 who want to show
off their skills will have the
opportunity to be taped and entered into
the 2005 Nestle Crunch Hot Shots contest
throughout 2005 NBA All-Star Weekend at
the Sport Court area on Saturday, Feb.
19, from 3-4 pm and Sunday, Feb. 20,
from 1-2 pm. Ten contestants will win
the opportunity to attend the Nestle
Crunch Hot Shots Camp in Miami, an Xbox,
a Nestle Crunch Hot Shots Camp jersey, a
Shaq-autographed basketball and a photo
taken with Big Aristotle himself.
FOUL PLAY OVER FOWLER'S BIO: New
Vikings owner fudged some things on his
resume.
*A public relations firm representing
new Minnesota Vikings owner Reggie
Fowler issued a revised "fact sheet"
on Fowler Wednesday after a few
discrepancies plagued his official
biography.
While his original bio claimed he
played in the NFL and CFL and in the
Little League World Series as an
discrepancies plagued his official
biography.
While his original bio claimed he
played in the NFL and CFL and in the
Little League World Series as an
11-year-old, and implied that he earned
a business administration and finance
degree from the University of Wyoming,
the "Minneapolis Star Tribune" reported
Wednesday that the claims were incorrect
or overstated.
Fowler, a former University of
Wyoming linebacker, never completed an
NFL training camp and doesn't appear in
player databases for either league.
Little League officials said they had no
record of Fowler on any roster of teams
that played in the Series, and University
of Wyoming records show Fowler's degree
actually is in social work, the "Star
Tribune" reported.
Leslie Kupchella, a spokeswoman for
Fowler's company Sprial Inc, told the Star
Tribune that a new "Reggie Fowler Fact
Sheet" was issued with some changes that
resulted from "conversations" with Fowler.
The new sheet drops the Little
League mention altogether, and clarifies
his degree was in social work, though it
also lists "emphasis of study in business
and finance" and "enrolled in MBA program."
It clarifies that Fowler attended training
camp with the Cincinnati Bengals, but still
includes playing in 1983 for the CFL's
Calgary Stampeders.
As previously reported, Fowler, 46,
was introduced Monday at a news conference
to announce a tentative $625 million deal
for him to acquire the Vikings. The bio
sheet was given to reporters and attributed
to Spiral Inc. The Chandler, Arizona-based
business has divisions that include real
estate, aviation, manufacturing, agricultural
degree from the University of Wyoming,
the "Minneapolis Star Tribune" reported
Wednesday that the claims were incorrect
or overstated.
Fowler, a former University of
Wyoming linebacker, never completed an
NFL training camp and doesn't appear in
player databases for either league.
Little League officials said they had no
record of Fowler on any roster of teams
that played in the Series, and University
of Wyoming records show Fowler's degree
actually is in social work, the "Star
Tribune" reported.
Leslie Kupchella, a spokeswoman for
Fowler's company Sprial Inc, told the Star
Tribune that a new "Reggie Fowler Fact
Sheet" was issued with some changes that
resulted from "conversations" with Fowler.
The new sheet drops the Little
League mention altogether, and clarifies
his degree was in social work, though it
also lists "emphasis of study in business
and finance" and "enrolled in MBA program."
It clarifies that Fowler attended training
camp with the Cincinnati Bengals, but still
includes playing in 1983 for the CFL's
Calgary Stampeders.
As previously reported, Fowler, 46,
was introduced Monday at a news conference
to announce a tentative $625 million deal
for him to acquire the Vikings. The bio
sheet was given to reporters and attributed
to Spiral Inc. The Chandler, Arizona-based
business has divisions that include real
estate, aviation, manufacturing, agricultural
and entertainment industries.
BET READY FOR CHURCH: 'Gospel '05'
to feature Kirk Franklin, Clark Sisters reunion.
*BET'S Celebration of Gospel '05,
premiering Feb. 24 at 9 p.m., features
emotional reunions and memorable
premiering Feb. 24 at 9 p.m., features
emotional reunions and memorable
moments that pay tribute to the legacy
of gospel music. Fantasia, Ruben Studdard,
Kirk Franklin, Yolanda Adams, Pastor Donnie
McClurkin, Smokie Norful, Fred Hammond,
Angie Stone, Deitrick Haddon, BeBe Winans,
Mary Mary, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Dr. Bobby
Jones and Tye Tribbett are among the
performers.
The legendary Clark Sisters reunite
in a special family-affair tribute to
matriarch Mattie Moss Clark for her
innovative contributions to the gospel
music genre, rounded out by granddaughter
Kierra "Kiki" Sheard and nephew J. Moss.
Steve Harvey hosts the event for the
fifth consecutive year, at which celebrity
attendees Nicole Parker, Boris Kodjoe,
Kimberly Elise, Monica Calhoun, Judge
Mablean Ephraim, Mari Morrow, Michael
Colyar and child actor Khamani Griffin
McClurkin, Smokie Norful, Fred Hammond,
Angie Stone, Deitrick Haddon, BeBe Winans,
Mary Mary, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Dr. Bobby
Jones and Tye Tribbett are among the
performers.
The legendary Clark Sisters reunite
in a special family-affair tribute to
matriarch Mattie Moss Clark for her
innovative contributions to the gospel
music genre, rounded out by granddaughter
Kierra "Kiki" Sheard and nephew J. Moss.
Steve Harvey hosts the event for the
fifth consecutive year, at which celebrity
attendees Nicole Parker, Boris Kodjoe,
Kimberly Elise, Monica Calhoun, Judge
Mablean Ephraim, Mari Morrow, Michael
Colyar and child actor Khamani Griffin
are spotted in the "congregation."
BLACK ENTERPRISE NAMES SPORTS 'MOST
POWERFUL': Jordan, Serena, Tiger make the cut.
POWERFUL': Jordan, Serena, Tiger make the cut.
*"Black Enterprise" (BE) has announced
its list of the 50 Most Powerful Blacks in
Sports, as featured in the March 2005
Sports, as featured in the March 2005
cover story. While there remains a gross
disparity between blacks and non-blacks
at the pinnacle of the sports industry, the
editors at BE selected and recognized those
who have broken through to the highest ranks
to achieve true clout within the sports industry.
"Although many superstar black
athletes dominate their chosen playing
fields, the true power in sports lies with
the executives who work behind the scenes,"
says Features Editor Alan Hughes. "We
approached this list from a business
perspective, citing those who control
revenues, sign athletes, and have the
authority to hire or fire coaches."
The list is divided into eight
categories: agents/promoters (6); athletes
(3); collegiate decision makers (8); corporate
"Although many superstar black
athletes dominate their chosen playing
fields, the true power in sports lies with
the executives who work behind the scenes,"
says Features Editor Alan Hughes. "We
approached this list from a business
perspective, citing those who control
revenues, sign athletes, and have the
authority to hire or fire coaches."
The list is divided into eight
categories: agents/promoters (6); athletes
(3); collegiate decision makers (8); corporate
executives (6); front-office leagues executives
(8); front- office team executives (14); industry
association heads (4); and owners (1).
Here is a portion of the BE's list:
Athletes:
Michael Jordan NBA Legend
Serena Williams Professional
Tennis Player
Tiger Woods Professional
Golfer
Michael Jordan NBA Legend
Serena Williams Professional
Tennis Player
Tiger Woods Professional
Golfer
Front-Office League Executives:
Shawn Lawson Cummings VP
nternational Corporate Sponsorship &
Licensing,MLB Properties
Harold R. Henderson Executive VP
for Labor Relations/Chairman of Management
Council Executive Committee, NFL
Stu Jackson Senior VP
Basketball Operations, NBA
Jonathan Mariner Executive VP
and Chief Financial Officer, MLB
Art Shell Senior VP of
Football Operations and Development, NFL
Front-Office Team Executives:
Elgin Baylor VP of
Basketball Operations, Los Angeles Clippers
Wayne Cooper VP of
Basketball Operations, Sacramento Kings
Joe Dumars President
of Basketball Operations, Detroit Pistons
Rod Graves VP of Football
Operations, Arizona Cardinals
James Harris VP of Player
Personnel, Jacksonville Jaguars
Industry Associations:
Billy Hunter Executive
Director, National Basketball Players
Association
Floyd Keith Executive
Director, Black Coaches Association
Gene Upshaw Executive
Director, National Football League Players
Association
Pamela M. Wheeler Director of
Operations, Women's National Basketball
Players Association
Shawn Lawson Cummings VP
nternational Corporate Sponsorship &
Licensing,MLB Properties
Harold R. Henderson Executive VP
for Labor Relations/Chairman of Management
Council Executive Committee, NFL
Stu Jackson Senior VP
Basketball Operations, NBA
Jonathan Mariner Executive VP
and Chief Financial Officer, MLB
Art Shell Senior VP of
Football Operations and Development, NFL
Front-Office Team Executives:
Elgin Baylor VP of
Basketball Operations, Los Angeles Clippers
Wayne Cooper VP of
Basketball Operations, Sacramento Kings
Joe Dumars President
of Basketball Operations, Detroit Pistons
Rod Graves VP of Football
Operations, Arizona Cardinals
James Harris VP of Player
Personnel, Jacksonville Jaguars
Industry Associations:
Billy Hunter Executive
Director, National Basketball Players
Association
Floyd Keith Executive
Director, Black Coaches Association
Gene Upshaw Executive
Director, National Football League Players
Association
Pamela M. Wheeler Director of
Operations, Women's National Basketball
Players Association
Owners:
Robert L. Johnson CEO RLJ
Development L.L.C./Owner, Charlotte Bobcats/Charlotte Sting
Robert L. Johnson CEO RLJ
Development L.L.C./Owner, Charlotte Bobcats/Charlotte Sting
================
EUR FEEDBACK (MYfeedback@eurweb.com)
*Cheryl Green, Atlanta, GA:
EUR, Do you know if America's Top Model winner (Eva Pigford) and actor Terrence Dashon Howard are related? They look exactly alike (not just the eyes) and have similar mannerisms."
EUR: Cheryl, as far as we know they are not related. But of course, if we hear otherwise, we'll let you know"
*Charles Williams (no city given):
"It amazes me how some people like to use a broad brush to paint a delicate picture. Case in point, Mr. Cosby. Of course Bill is a public figure, that goes without saying. He's a public figure because he garners a great deal of respect and admiration from fans the world over. I give Bill props because as an African American male, I've seen plenty of images on television of dysfunctional black families, with the mother screaming and cursing the kids, the son selling and/or using drugs, the daughter pregnant at 13 or a hoochie-in-training, and the father MIA. Cosby was the first respected actor/comedian to promote a positive image to the world of African American life and culture. Of course it was made-for-TV, but so was all the negative images associated with 'black' behavior. I remember the original Cosby Show idea, with the father out of work, the mother in a housecoat, slippers and doo-rag, looking like the Syrup lady, and the kids were scheduled to have 'regular' problems, i.e.: drugs, crime, etc ... Bill said no. He was tired of Hollywood making stereotypical roles for black 'family' life and stood up for how he believed a black family should be presented to America. Luckily for us Mr Cosby won that battle and gave us a positive image to admire and aspire to attain.
A black doctor-dad and lawyer-mom led family was laughable in the eyes of Hollywood producers and even some African Americans themselves considered the idea 'cheesy.'
He had a positive vision and saw it through to rave reviews and acclaim.
Now that he has come out and commented on the very real problem of us hurting us. Of brothers being violent just for the sake of promoting a pseudo-thug image that is glamorized in our community by our so-called role-models. We listen to, and memorize lyrics promoting self-hate, promiscuous sex, and actually promoting an overall attitude of being a 'bitch' if you're female, and a murderous thug if you're a 'real' n*gga. Needless to say this has turned our streets into battlegrounds. True thugs see this mentality as a reaffirmation that it's OK to be violently aggressive because it's a dog-eat-dog world out here and if you don't handle yourself like the Tupacs, Nino Browns, and Bishop Don (the Pimp) Juan's of the world handle themselves, then you're a sucker.
Bill is in no way perfect. None of us are. If he did anything resembling the charges levied against him, he should be held responsible. But that has absolutely nothing to do with his message, or the ugly truth of life in the hood, which we can change if we can reach those people making those sorts of damaging choices. If you have a problem with Bill, then you're probably part of the problem that's affecting most of the predominantly black neighborhoods across America. Don't act like you don't see the destruction currently going on. The shootings, the robberies, all because of some over-hyped ghetto image of success. Most
Now that he has come out and commented on the very real problem of us hurting us. Of brothers being violent just for the sake of promoting a pseudo-thug image that is glamorized in our community by our so-called role-models. We listen to, and memorize lyrics promoting self-hate, promiscuous sex, and actually promoting an overall attitude of being a 'bitch' if you're female, and a murderous thug if you're a 'real' n*gga. Needless to say this has turned our streets into battlegrounds. True thugs see this mentality as a reaffirmation that it's OK to be violently aggressive because it's a dog-eat-dog world out here and if you don't handle yourself like the Tupacs, Nino Browns, and Bishop Don (the Pimp) Juan's of the world handle themselves, then you're a sucker.
Bill is in no way perfect. None of us are. If he did anything resembling the charges levied against him, he should be held responsible. But that has absolutely nothing to do with his message, or the ugly truth of life in the hood, which we can change if we can reach those people making those sorts of damaging choices. If you have a problem with Bill, then you're probably part of the problem that's affecting most of the predominantly black neighborhoods across America. Don't act like you don't see the destruction currently going on. The shootings, the robberies, all because of some over-hyped ghetto image of success. Most
of us have had situations that Mr. Cosby has found himself in. We're human, and last
I checked, so was Bill. He will fail. So will you. So will I. It's how we live our lives and affect people that matters most. If we wait until we have the moral high ground before we comment on the state of our community, we would persist to be in this situation. I applaud him for saying what I'm sure most decent African Americans feel about what's going on in the hood. We shouldn't wait to see if he walks on water before we listen and heed good advice.
So before you criticize Bill Cosby for asking us to be better 'brothers and sisters' to each other and stop the destruction, look in the mirror and ask yourself this: Am I part of the problem, or part of the solution? Peace."
So before you criticize Bill Cosby for asking us to be better 'brothers and sisters' to each other and stop the destruction, look in the mirror and ask yourself this: Am I part of the problem, or part of the solution? Peace."
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