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03-31-06 EUR ALL ON ONE PAGE
(March 31, 2006)
TELLIN' IT LIKE IT T.I. IS: 'ATL'
star Tip Harris hopes his self-proclaimed
royalty in the Dirty South will one day
royalty in the Dirty South will one day
rule Hollywood.
*Today's opening of "ATL" holds
*Today's opening of "ATL" holds
double meaning for star Tip T.I.
Harris. It marks the end of his pursuit
Harris. It marks the end of his pursuit
to find a movie role that would
prove his talent to non-believers, and
prove his talent to non-believers, and
the beginning of what he hopes will
be a long career both in front of and
be a long career both in front of and
behind the film camera.
"I just always planned to expand
"I just always planned to expand
into other entities of entertainment,
fashion, movies, I just always had
a love for it," beams T.I., who says
a lot of opportunities have come
his way since news of his
casting in the urban drama. "I'm
casting in the urban drama. "I'm
developing a film production company,
Grand Hustle Films, and I'm working
on scripts. I don't wanna just read
scripts no more, I wanna green
light movies."
It may seem like a cart-before-the-
It may seem like a cart-before-the-
horse move by someone whose only
previous acting experience was starring
previous acting experience was starring
as himself on "The O.C.," but the
Atlanta native has always thought
Atlanta native has always thought
two or three chess moves ahead.
The proactive hustle was present as he
took the bold move of crowning himself
"King of the South" as a rapper.
T.I., born Clifford Joseph
"King of the South" as a rapper.
T.I., born Clifford Joseph
Harris, Jr., says his drive in the film
business is not a byproduct of his
business is not a byproduct of his
ambitious maneuvers in the rap game,
but rather a mirror of the same hustle
that put money in his pocket as
a rapper.
"I don't think [success in acting]
"I don't think [success in acting]
is nothing that you just automatically
get as a rapper, or as a performer,
it's just something in certain people,"
he explains. "Certain people just
have a desire to win at whatever
they do. Acting is just another
way for me to express my will
to win. I wanna be the best
at everything."
His best was good enough
His best was good enough
this time around for "ATL" producer
Dallas Austin, who auditioned the
rapper several times before casting
him as 17-year-old Rashad, the caretaker
of his younger brother Ant (Evan Ross)
following the death of their mother and
following the death of their mother and
father. Rashad struggles to keep his
little brother on the right path despite
little brother on the right path despite
outside influences in their South
Atlanta neighborhood - particularly
Atlanta neighborhood - particularly
a local drug dealer named Marcus
(Antwan "Big Boi" Patton) who
promises Ant the quick money
and street cred he so
desperately wants.
After first reading the script, T.I.
desperately wants.
After first reading the script, T.I.
says the role of Rashad was the
only character he wanted to play
only character he wanted to play
if cast in the flick.
"I felt that the only thing that
"I felt that the only thing that
would show growth was Rashad,"
he says. "This is the only thing I felt
would give me what I wanted to portray
to other people, you know, showing
to other people, you know, showing
talent as an actor. I could've went and
played Marcus real easy, but that's
played Marcus real easy, but that's
expected. I could've played Ant real
easy, but that's expected."
What wasn't expected was the
easy, but that's expected."
What wasn't expected was the
role of Rashad being handed to T.I.
as a homeboy hookup from Austin.
When the actor tried out unsuccessfully
for Austin's 2002 film "Drumline," the
budding rapper left the filmmaker with
some parting words.
"I told him next time he did
some parting words.
"I told him next time he did
a movie, I better be in it," laughs
T.I.. "He did another movie, but it
T.I.. "He did another movie, but it
wasn't just given to me. He just gave
me the opportunity. 'Okay, I'm doing
another movie, you want it? Okay,
here. Go get it.'"
On the day he actually got it,
On the day he actually got it,
T.I. said the phone call offering him
the part came literally days before
the part came literally days before
shooting was to begin in his hometown.
"I had just found out my album
"I had just found out my album
went platinum and then they called me
and said, 'We need you to stop doing
and said, 'We need you to stop doing
everything you're doing now and focus
on this.' Alright cool," says T.I. "That's
on this.' Alright cool," says T.I. "That's
basically how I found out. I was
excited, but I was overwhelmed with
excited, but I was overwhelmed with
responsibility like, damn, how I'ma do
all this? Because I had the 'Hustle
all this? Because I had the 'Hustle
& Flow' soundtrack I was doing at
thetime, and we just had all kinds
of things I had going."
Get the rest of this story
at EURweb.com:
MORE WHITNEY DRAMA: Singer
was hanging with 80s singer Cherelle.
Both reportedly owe $17,000 in back rent.
Was Bobby behind Tina’s tabloid tell
all? Where is Bobbi Kristina?
*Where or where to begin in
all? Where is Bobbi Kristina?
*Where or where to begin in
the “snow”balling story surrounding
Whitney Houston’s sad state of
Whitney Houston’s sad state of
affairs?
Days after Bobby Brown’s sister
Days after Bobby Brown’s sister
Tina gave pictures and personal
accounts of Whitney’s crack addiction
accounts of Whitney’s crack addiction
to the National Enquirer and The Sun
tabloids, Fox411 entertainment columnist
tabloids, Fox411 entertainment columnist
Roger Friedman has written of new
details surrounding Whitney’s downward
details surrounding Whitney’s downward
spiral, including the singer’s dire financial
state and the whereabouts and
welfare of her daughter, Bobbi
Kristina.
Also, Cherelle of “I Didn’t Mean
Kristina.
Also, Cherelle of “I Didn’t Mean
to Turn You On” and “Saturday Love”
fame is suddenly in the picture, having
fame is suddenly in the picture, having
taken Whitney in for a period of time
at her townhouse, Friedman reports.
According to Friedman, who has
at her townhouse, Friedman reports.
According to Friedman, who has
known Whitney since her “You Give
Good Love” days, the entertainer is
Good Love” days, the entertainer is
not only on crack, but dead broke “with
no current income and huge expenses.”
Friedman says Whitney’s generosity
no current income and huge expenses.”
Friedman says Whitney’s generosity
was ultimately her financial undoing, as
she has spent most of her earnings
taking care of her own family and
her husband’s. She her assets
include a five-acre estate in posh
Mendham, N.J., assessed in 2005
Mendham, N.J., assessed in 2005
at $5.6 million; her current Alpharetta
home, purchased in 2003 for $1.8
home, purchased in 2003 for $1.8
million, almost all of which was
borrowed, writes Friedman.
“The Mendham property has
“The Mendham property has
become to Houston what Neverland is to
Michael Jackson: a bank account against
Michael Jackson: a bank account against
which she can draw loans,” Freidman
writes. “Unlike Jackson, however,
writes. “Unlike Jackson, however,
Houston does not have investments like the
Beatles catalog to fall back on now that
Beatles catalog to fall back on now that
she’s in trouble. Public records show
Whitney has borrowed millions of dollars
and taken out many staggering
mortgages in her time — enough to
mortgages in her time — enough to
give Michael Jackson a run for
his money.”
For some reason, Whitney
For some reason, Whitney
left the Alpharetta crib last fall and
moved in with Cherelle, but the two
moved in with Cherelle, but the two
were recently evicted from Cherelle’s
townhouse, reportedly for making
townhouse, reportedly for making
too much noise, keeping the place
dirty and failure to pay rent.
Friedman writes: “A local Atlanta
Friedman writes: “A local Atlanta
lawyer told me that he recently had
housemates Whitney and ‘80s pop
housemates Whitney and ‘80s pop
star Cherelle (real name Cheryl Week
Norton) evicted from the luxury
townhouse he’d rented to the latter
last fall. Houston’s name was not on
the lease, but the landlord says she
was living there and has witnesses
to back him up.”
According to Freedman, the
According to Freedman, the
landlord claims the two ladies owe him
about $17,000 in back rent and about
about $17,000 in back rent and about
$8,000 in damages for leaving the place
a complete mess. “That includes
a complete mess. “That includes
carpets and furniture ruined by burn
marks and broken windows,”
Friedman writes.
“When the landlord went to speak
“When the landlord went to speak
to Houston about the noise and
filth emanating from the townhouse,
filth emanating from the townhouse,
he told me the singer appeared
‘disheveled’ and her voice was gravelly.
‘disheveled’ and her voice was gravelly.
On the plus side: ‘She was very
pleasant,’” writes Friedman.
According to sources Whitney and
pleasant,’” writes Friedman.
According to sources Whitney and
Cherelle abandoned the townhouse and
moved into the Buckhead section of
moved into the Buckhead section of
Atlanta, but Houston has since returned
to her Alpharetta mansion, as has
to her Alpharetta mansion, as has
Bobby, after his own partying stint
in Los Angeles, Friedman writes.
“There, Brown told friends alternately
that Houston was pregnant and that
they were divorcing.”
Friedman, who calls Whitney’s
Friedman, who calls Whitney’s
disastrous fall from grace “the worst
kind of show business tragedy,” says
kind of show business tragedy,” says
that Bobby Brown may have been behind
Tina Brown’s decision to sell the story
Tina Brown’s decision to sell the story
to the tabloids so that he could get
a cut of her fee – which could be as
a cut of her fee – which could be as
high as $200,000, Freidman writes.
Ironically, sources say Whitney
Ironically, sources say Whitney
took care of Tina Brown’s children –
all six of them – when Brown went into
all six of them – when Brown went into
rehab herself. Houston’s friends tell
Friedman that she always tried to keep
Friedman that she always tried to keep
Bobby’s relatives happy, even when
she was at her worst.
“There are 30 members of the
she was at her worst.
“There are 30 members of the
Brown family,” says an insider, “and
they’ve all sponged off of Whitney.”
While her generosity and real
they’ve all sponged off of Whitney.”
While her generosity and real
estate expenses have contributed
to her alleged financial ruin, Friedman
says a huge factor also comes from
receiving poor money advice throughout
receiving poor money advice throughout
the years. Because Houston doesn’t
write her own songs, she does not
write her own songs, she does not
profit from the royalties provided by
owning one’s own publishing, as do
owning one’s own publishing, as do
singer/songwriters Celine Dion, Mariah
Carey and Madonna. This is why
Carey and Madonna. This is why
Houston is reportedly broke despite
all of her platinum-selling hit records.
“It’s kind of surprising that
“It’s kind of surprising that
Houston fell into this trap,” writes
Friedman. “She’s watched both her
Friedman. “She’s watched both her
mother, Cissy Houston, and cousin, Dionne
Warwick, neither of whom wrote their
Warwick, neither of whom wrote their
own hits, tour endlessly every year and
work to keep up with their expenses.
work to keep up with their expenses.
You’d think she would have learned
something from their experiences. …
something from their experiences. …
Depending on just record sales to get her
through bad times was a mistake. While
through bad times was a mistake. While
Houston had many bestsellers, they
are well in the past. Simply singing
are well in the past. Simply singing
a hit record is not enough if you’re
not going to save your money.”
As for Bobbi Kristina, she is
not going to save your money.”
As for Bobbi Kristina, she is
reportedly staying with her Uncle Gary
and Aunt Pat (Whitney’s brother and
and Aunt Pat (Whitney’s brother and
sister-in-law) close to Houston’s home
in Atlanta. But Friedman believes that
in Atlanta. But Friedman believes that
the Enquirer story will inevitably
lead to an investigation by Child
lead to an investigation by Child
Protective Services in Alpharetta.
“If 50 percent of the [Enquirer/
“If 50 percent of the [Enquirer/
Sun] report is deemed true, Houston
and Brown could easily lose their
and Brown could easily lose their
daughter for good,” Friedman writes.
“One wonders if that will be enough of
a wake-up call for the singer who once
represented the best of America’s youth.”
represented the best of America’s youth.”
RUSSELL AND KIMORA HEADED
FOR SPLITSVILLE?: Rumor has
it that an announcement
is coming soon.
*During a promotional tour last
*During a promotional tour last
month for her new book “Fabulosity:
What It Is and How To Get It,” Kimora
What It Is and How To Get It,” Kimora
Lee Simmons was bombarded with
questions about the stability of her
questions about the stability of her
seven-year marriage to Def Jam
co-founder Russell Simmons, as
co-founder Russell Simmons, as
rumors of distance between them
were at an all time high.
Although the Baby Phat creator
Although the Baby Phat creator
denied such reports at every turn, Us
Weekly is reporting that the couple
Weekly is reporting that the couple
had indeed drifted apart and will soon
formally announce that they have
formally announce that they have
decided to go their separate ways.
Us Weekly quotes a source that
Us Weekly quotes a source that
claims the couple has been separated
for the last nine months, and Russell
for the last nine months, and Russell
is rumored to be dating model Denise
Vasi. But as Alicia Keys points out
Vasi. But as Alicia Keys points out
in “Unbreakable,” the couple is still
about “making paper” and said they
about “making paper” and said they
will continue to work together on
future business projects.
Russell and Kimora Lee have
Russell and Kimora Lee have
two children, Ming, 6, and Aoki, 3.
"First on their minds are their
"First on their minds are their
children, but they need to be happy,
too," the source explained to Us Weekly.
too," the source explained to Us Weekly.
NAOMI CAMPBELL ARRESTED
FOR ASSAULT IN NYC: Supermodel
can’t seem to keep her hands off the help.
*Naomi Campbell, 35, was arrested
*Naomi Campbell, 35, was arrested
in her Park Ave. home and charged
with second-degree assault Thursday
with second-degree assault Thursday
after her housekeeper claimed the
supermodel beat her in the head
supermodel beat her in the head
with a phone during an altercation.
The catwalk star, who has a
The catwalk star, who has a
history of assault claims from former
personal assistants, was taken into
personal assistants, was taken into
custody shortly after cops responded
to a call from Lenox Hill Hospital to
investigate a reported attack. The
41-year-old woman, who received
41-year-old woman, who received
four stitches in her head, told police
that the incident happened around
8 a.m. yesterday.
Campbell was fingerprinted and
photographed at a Manhattan police
station. Sporting a white jacket and
Campbell was fingerprinted and
photographed at a Manhattan police
station. Sporting a white jacket and
a black baseball cap, she left the
precinct later in the day surrounded
precinct later in the day surrounded
by dozens of photographers, reporters
and film crews. She threw them a
and film crews. She threw them a
quick smile before ducking into an
unmarked car and being whisked
away to Criminal Court for processing.
The victim had reportedly been
The victim had reportedly been
fired by Campbell before the
altercation took place. Campbell's
altercation took place. Campbell's
agent, Amanda Silverman, said in a
statement: "We believe this is a case
statement: "We believe this is a case
of retaliation, because Naomi had
fired her housekeeper earlier this
fired her housekeeper earlier this
morning. We are confident the courts will
see it the same way.”
The London born runway queen
see it the same way.”
The London born runway queen
has admitted to past drug use and earned
the “diva” tag based on her angry
the “diva” tag based on her angry
outbursts and abusive behavior.
In 2003, Campbell was sued
In 2003, Campbell was sued
by a former administrative assistant who
alleged that she had thrown a phone
alleged that she had thrown a phone
at her during a tantrum two years
earlier in a Beverly Hills hotel.
The assistant said Campbell had
earlier in a Beverly Hills hotel.
The assistant said Campbell had
also grabbed her by the arms and
thrown her down on a couch. In
thrown her down on a couch. In
February 2000, Campbell pleaded
guilty in Toronto to an assault charge
for beating another assistant while
making a film in Canada in 1998.
SNOOP SHOW CANCELLED IN
RAP-WEARY VEGAS: Pressure
came from local authorities afraid
of booking “gangster rappers’
in the city.
*A private Las Vegas party that
*A private Las Vegas party that
was to feature headline act Snoop
Dogg was cancelled this week due
Dogg was cancelled this week due
to growing anti-rap sentiment among
Nevada authorities.
According to the Wall Street
According to the Wall Street
Journal, Snoop was booked to host
an event held by Molson Coors Brewing
at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas. But the
hotel’s parent company, Harrah’s
hotel’s parent company, Harrah’s
Entertainment, requested that Coors
cancel the show amidst pressure
from local authorities and Nevada’s
Gaming Control Board, sources
tell the paper.
The heat came from both
The heat came from both
Sheriff Bill Young of the Las Vegas
Metropolitan Police Department,
Metropolitan Police Department,
who recently sent a letter to state
gambling regulators asking that they
discourage casinos from booking rap
acts; and Nevada's State Gaming
Control Board, which is leery of
"gangster rap" following the deaths
of four local rappers last June and
the recent murder of a police
officer by an aspiring
Las Vegas rapper.
The Wall Street Journal quotes
The Wall Street Journal quotes
sources who say Snoop would have
pocketed about $150,000 for the gig.
pocketed about $150,000 for the gig.
RAPE CHARGES DROPPED AGAINST
TRILLVILLE’S DON P: Lack of evidence
leads to dismissal.
*Trillville rapper Don P has had
*Trillville rapper Don P has had
rape charges against him in Atlanta
dismissed by the Dekalb County
dismissed by the Dekalb County
District Attorney's office due to
lack of evidence.
According to Allhiphop.com, the
According to Allhiphop.com, the
rapper (born Donnell Prince), and
another man were accused of raping
another man were accused of raping
a 16-year-old girl on Dec. 16. P’s one
rape charge and two counts of
rape charge and two counts of
aggravated sodomy were dropped
on Feb. 24, the rapper says, after the
District Attorney's office acknowledged
they were unable to show probable
cause that the incident had occurred.
"I just want to let everyone know
"I just want to let everyone know
that the case was dismissed because
the DA had lack of evidence and they
the DA had lack of evidence and they
didn't there was no probable cause,"
Don P told AllHipHop.com. "It was
Don P told AllHipHop.com. "It was
too many people on the street saying
thatthe girl wanted money. I guess
she told people she wanted to
get money from me."
"Once they started investigating,
"Once they started investigating,
witnesses from the party came
forward to give their story of what
forward to give their story of what
happened," Don P continued. "The
guy who brought her to the party said
that on the way over the girl was like
'I love Don P, he's my favorite one out
the group…I wanna have sex with him.'"
P said he let more than a month
P said he let more than a month
go by before telling fans the
outcome of the case because
he was busy.
"Sorry for not letting everybody
"Sorry for not letting everybody
know right when it happened, but
I've been working the whole time
I've been working the whole time
that the case was going on and not really
thinking about it," he said. "In the end,
thinking about it," he said. "In the end,
everything worked out like it was
supposed too."
The group’s new album, “Trillville
supposed too."
The group’s new album, “Trillville
Reloaded,” is due this spring.
NEW YORK’S WBLS TO HONOR
MARVIN GAYE: Special programming
this weekend to mark singer’s birth
and death.
*It’s all Marvin Gaye, all day for
*It’s all Marvin Gaye, all day for
two days straight at New York’s
WBLS this weekend in honor of the
WBLS this weekend in honor of the
soul legend’s birthday on April 2, 1939,
and his death on April 1, 1984.
“Marvin Gaye is a core artist and
and his death on April 1, 1984.
“Marvin Gaye is a core artist and
a staple of what we do,” explains
WBLS program director Vinny Brown.
WBLS program director Vinny Brown.
“Someone who has made such a contribution
needs to be recognized appropriately. I
needs to be recognized appropriately. I
looked at the calendar and saw that
this is a weekend which will mark not
this is a weekend which will mark not
only the birth, but the death of such
a legend, as it falls on Saturday and
a legend, as it falls on Saturday and
Sunday. And we thought that we’d
dedicate the entire weekend to salute
dedicate the entire weekend to salute
the man and his music and his legacy.”
>On Saturday (April 1), WBLS
>On Saturday (April 1), WBLS
will play at least two songs an hour from
artists covering Marvin Gaye songs or
artists covering Marvin Gaye songs or
paying tribute to the Motown standout.
On Sunday morning, the station will
On Sunday morning, the station will
air the Lee Bailey-produced tribute
“Marvin, We Miss You.”
“We’ve run it before, we’ve had
“Marvin, We Miss You.”
“We’ve run it before, we’ve had
it on, it’s gotten such tremendous
response,” Brown said of the special.
response,” Brown said of the special.
“It has such an impact and makes such
an impact on the radio that it’s back
an impact on the radio that it’s back
by popular demand.”
>From noon to 4 p.m. Sunday,
>From noon to 4 p.m. Sunday,
WBLS’ Hal Jackson will take over with his
own thoughts and memories for the
own thoughts and memories for the
program “Marvin, Then and Now,” which
chronicles Gaye’s earlier years with
chronicles Gaye’s earlier years with
Tammi Terrell and moves through his
material up to the early 80s.
>From 7-9 p.m., Nick Ashford
material up to the early 80s.
>From 7-9 p.m., Nick Ashford
and Valerie Simpson will host a special
edition of the Quiet Storm, featuring
edition of the Quiet Storm, featuring
their own personal memories of working
with Gaye as Motown staff writers.
with Gaye as Motown staff writers.
The songwriting duo will offer exclusive
details about writing one of Gaye’s
details about writing one of Gaye’s
biggest singles, “Your Precious Love.”
“At 9 p.m., we open up the
“At 9 p.m., we open up the
phones for the listeners, with more of
their favorite Marvin Gaye songs in
their favorite Marvin Gaye songs in
between,” adds Brown. “So it’s a full
weekend.”
weekend.”
ELABORATE NFL TOUCHDOWN
CELEBRATIONS BANNED: Bengals
receiver Chad Johnson already plotting
ways to circumvent rules.
*It’s time to bid a fond farewell
*It’s time to bid a fond farewell
(or for some, a good riddance) to
Sharpies, cell phones, “rock the
Sharpies, cell phones, “rock the
baby” routines and other choreographed
end zone celebrations following NFL
touchdowns, as such antics were
officiallybanned by the league at
the NFL owners meetings
Wednesday in Orlando.
The new rule, passed 29-3 by
The new rule, passed 29-3 by
the competition committee, forbids
most of the elaborate post-touchdown
behavior popularized in recent years by
such receivers as Chad Johnson, Steve
Smith and Terrell Owens. As previously
reported, the excessive celebration rule
reported, the excessive celebration rule
was on the table during the owners
meetings this week, and on Wednesday,
meetings this week, and on Wednesday,
became one of 15 proposals to be
approved by the competition committee.
"I think it's needed," San Diego
approved by the competition committee.
"I think it's needed," San Diego
coach Marty Schottenheimer told The
Associated Press. "The game is about
Associated Press. "The game is about
the team, not the individual."
Players next season will
Players next season will
be limited to the following celebrations:
spikes, dunks, Lambeau Leaps, spins,
spikes, dunks, Lambeau Leaps, spins,
dances and minor celebrations.
Fifteen-yard penalties on the ensuing
Fifteen-yard penalties on the ensuing
kickoff will be given for any thing
more excessive than that.
"I'm looking forward to seeing
more excessive than that.
"I'm looking forward to seeing
what Chad [Johnson] will come to
celebrate with now," Indianapolis
celebrate with now," Indianapolis
coach Tony Dungy told the AP
after the vote.
Johnson, a wide receiver for
Johnson, a wide receiver for
the Cincinnati Bengals – whose
celebrations have included giving
celebrations have included giving
CPR to the football, proposing marriage
to a cheerleader and using an end zone
pylon as a golf club – told a Cincinnati
reporter that he will organize his own
reporter that he will organize his own
competition committee meeting with
receivers Keyshawn Johnson and
receivers Keyshawn Johnson and
Owens to come up with ways to
celebrate touchdowns without
breaking the rules – like moving
the spectacle to the sidelines.
Other memorable touchdown
Other memorable touchdown
routines include the Snow Angel, the
rowboat and the “wipe the baby
rowboat and the “wipe the baby
bottom” - all from Steve Smith of the
Carolina Panthers.
Carolina Panthers.
EXTREME MAKEOVER: PEA
EDITION: Black Eyed Peas tapped to
design rock star suite for Hard Rock
Hotel San Diego.
*Hard Rock Hotel San Diego,
*Hard Rock Hotel San Diego,
the city's first branded condo-hotel,
will partner with the Black Eyed Peas
will partner with the Black Eyed Peas
to design one of itsRock Star Suites,
and to raise awareness and funds for
and to raise awareness and funds for
The Black Eyed Peas' charity, The
Peapod Foundation, a global
Peapod Foundation, a global
organization dedicated to providing
opportunities and support for children
opportunities and support for children
Fergie, apl.de.ap and Taboo -- will
collaborate on the design for the suite,
collaborate on the design for the suite,
which will reflect each member's
individual style and unique personality.
individual style and unique personality.
They’ll select everything from the
furniture to the bed linens. It will also
furniture to the bed linens. It will also
include personal touches, such as
a video message from will.i.am for
a video message from will.i.am for
guests staying in the suites, where he
suggests everything from his favorite
suggests everything from his favorite
spots in the historic Gaslamp Quarter
to songs in his personal music collection.
"Hard Rock is a brand that has
to songs in his personal music collection.
"Hard Rock is a brand that has
always been true to its core and I
really dig the direction these guys
really dig the direction these guys
are headed in San Diego," said
will.i.am. "When I heard about this
will.i.am. "When I heard about this
project, I knew I had to be a part of it
and what we're going to do will be
and what we're going to do will be
outrageous and, at the same time,
benefit the Peapod Foundation and
children all over the world. All the
band -- Fergie, apl.de.ap, Taboo
and I -- will have input so it's
going to be a great time
for us all."
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
will have a total of 17 custom-designed
Rock Star Suites: one planned for the
Rock Star Suites: one planned for the
top floor of the hotel will feature a
fire pit and deck seating for 20, while
fire pit and deck seating for 20, while
another features 270-degree views
of the San Diego Bay and an
outdoor hot tub.
The suite to be designed by the
The suite to be designed by the
Black Eyed Peas will be donated to
The Peapod Foundation by the project
The Peapod Foundation by the project
developer, 5th Rock, LLC. The
Foundation will then have the option
Foundation will then have the option
of selling the custom-designed suite,
with proceeds benefiting the charity.
with proceeds benefiting the charity.
To find out more about the condo-hotel
suites for sale, visit
suites for sale, visit
BLACK LEADERS MEET WITH NEW
ORLEANS OFFICIAL: Jesse, NAACP’s
Gordon have face-to-face with LA
secretary of state over elections.
*One day after a federal judge
*One day after a federal judge
ruled against postponing the April 22
elections in New Orleans, African
elections in New Orleans, African
American leaders are refusing to
go homequietly and have taken
their fight directly to Louisiana's
secretary of state.
Rev. Jesse Jackson, NAACP
Rev. Jesse Jackson, NAACP
President Bruce Gordon and state political
leaders met with Secretary or State Al
leaders met with Secretary or State Al
Ater for more than an hour Tuesday to
discuss three particular issues about
discuss three particular issues about
the upcoming election: providing
access and distribution of voter lists to
access and distribution of voter lists to
all candidates, moving the
election date to ensure candidates and
election date to ensure candidates and
displaced voters have an opportunity
to be better informed, and satellite
to be better informed, and satellite
voting sites outside of the state.
"We generally believe in order
"We generally believe in order
to maximize voter participation in the
state of Louisiana satellite voting needs
state of Louisiana satellite voting needs
to be set up not only within the
state, but outside of the state in
state, but outside of the state in
whatever metropolitan areas, whatever
locales across this country where
locales across this country where
there are concentrations of displaced
New Orleans' voters," Gordon said.
State Sen. Cedric Richmond,
State Sen. Cedric Richmond,
chairman of the Black Caucus, said
a bill which would allow satellite voting
outside of the state was to be heard in
a legislative committee Wednesday.
TUSKEGEE AIRMEN TO GET
CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL:
Congress approves bill honoring
group’s trailblazing efforts.
*The Tuskegee Airmen, one
*The Tuskegee Airmen, one
of the most highly respected fighter
groups of World War II, will collectively
groups of World War II, will collectively
receive the Congressional Gold
Medal after final approval was
Medal after final approval was
given this week by Congress.
The Tuskegee Airmen were
The Tuskegee Airmen were
credited with 261 aircraft destroyed,
148 aircraft damaged, 15,553 combat
sorties and 1,578 missions. In addition,
as an escort fighter wing they never lost
a bomber to enemy fighters.
Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich, one
Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich, one
of the bipartisan bill’s 78 sponsors,
said: “The Tuskegee Airmen were a
said: “The Tuskegee Airmen were a
heroic and trailblazing force in the
struggle for civil rights and are richly
struggle for civil rights and are richly
deserving of the highest honor that
Congress can bestow upon them I am
Congress can bestow upon them I am
proud to play a part in ensuring that
their legacy is enshrined in American
their legacy is enshrined in American
history.”
The Tuskegee Airmen included
The Tuskegee Airmen included
pilots, navigators, bombardiers,
maintenance and support staff,
maintenance and support staff,
instructors, and all the personnel who
kept the planes in the air.
“This heroic group of African-
“This heroic group of African-
American flyers fought in two types of
battles—the battle of World War II
battles—the battle of World War II
and the battle against racism at home,”
said . Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich,
said . Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich,
another co-sponsor of the bill. “These
soldiers are a vital part of both
soldiers are a vital part of both
America’s and Michigan’s history,
and I am thrilled they will finally receive
the recognition they deserve.”
The House of Representatives
The House of Representatives
approved the bill earlier – which was
sponsored by Rep. Charlie Rangel,
sponsored by Rep. Charlie Rangel,
D-N.Y. – and it will now go to the
President for his signature.
President for his signature.
MUSIC BITS: Gangsta Mijac; Carey’s
musical; ‘Ghetto’ gold; Texas Boyz; Dr.
Pepper ad scrapped; 8Ball & MJG in studio.
*If Michael Jackson emerges from
Pepper ad scrapped; 8Ball & MJG in studio.
*If Michael Jackson emerges from
Bahrain looking like a white-skinned
Treach, we have DJ Whoo Kid to thank.
Treach, we have DJ Whoo Kid to thank.
The G-Unit member told MTV.com that
he gave the reclusive singer advice on the
best way to launch a successful
comeback. "I told him he needs
comeback. "I told him he needs
to cut his hair, get some million-dollar
earrings, get a million-dollar watch
earrings, get a million-dollar watch
and take all them spaceship clothes
off,” said Whoo Kid. "[Michael]
off,” said Whoo Kid. "[Michael]
said, 'I have to change my whole
outlook.' He said he was trying
to work out."
*Mariah Carey says her Broadway
*Mariah Carey says her Broadway
dreams are a step closer to coming
true. As previously reported, the singer
true. As previously reported, the singer
is hoping to create a musical that
would mix songs from her 1994 album
would mix songs from her 1994 album
Merry Christmas and new material written
especially for the project. "I don't want
especially for the project. "I don't want
to mention anything definitive until
things are signed, but there's a very
big company that just signed on
to develop the project with me," she
to develop the project with me," she
tells MTV. "It's probably going to be
a movie first. I don't want to say a
television movie, because it's not like
a cheesy network movie, but then it's
going to be made for the Broadway
production.
*Jaheim’s new album, "Ghetto
production.
*Jaheim’s new album, "Ghetto
Classics," was certified gold last week
by the RIAA. The set was released
by the RIAA. The set was released
five weeks ago on February 14th by Divine
Mill/Warner Bros. Records. Anchored
Mill/Warner Bros. Records. Anchored
by the album's first single "Everytime
I Think About Her" featuring Jadakiss,
"Ghetto Classics" debuted at No. 1 on
Billboard's Top 200 chart, selling
Billboard's Top 200 chart, selling
152,900 copies its first week out.
*Houston rappers Chamillionaire
*Houston rappers Chamillionaire
and Lil' Flip launched their 30-city
Texas Boyz Tour last night in San
Texas Boyz Tour last night in San
Diego, with dates in Washington D.C.,
Tulsa and Detroit among stops on the
Tulsa and Detroit among stops on the
schedule. Cham is supporting his gold
album “The Sound of Revenge,” and Lil’
album “The Sound of Revenge,” and Lil’
Flip is plugging his latest CD, “I
Need Mine.” Here are the "Texas Boyz"
Need Mine.” Here are the "Texas Boyz"
tour dates: March 30: San Diego (House
Of Blues); March 31: Las Vegas (House
Of Blues); April 1: Los Angeles (House
Of Blues); April 3: Anaheim, CA (House
Of Blues); April 4: Tempe, AZ (Marquee
Theatre); April 5: Tucson, AZ (Rialto
Theatre); April 8: Tulsa, OK (Club
Theatre); April 8: Tulsa, OK (Club
Energy); April 13: Detroit (Zoo Bar);
April 14: Cincinnati (The Ritz); April 15:
April 14: Cincinnati (The Ritz); April 15:
Cleveland (Metropolis); April 16:
New York (BB Kings); April 19:
New York (BB Kings); April 19:
Worcester, MA (Palladium); April 21:
Washington, D.C. (Fur Nightclub); April
Washington, D.C. (Fur Nightclub); April
23: Orlando (House Of Blues); April
28: Fayetteville, NC (Crown Center
28: Fayetteville, NC (Crown Center
Theatre); April 29: Myrtle Beach, SC
(House Of Blues); April 30: Greenville,
(House Of Blues); April 30: Greenville,
SC (Club Caliente)
*A $5 million ad campaign for
*A $5 million ad campaign for
Dr. Pepper featuring a “mash up” of
music from Will Smith, Big Gipp, Cyndi
music from Will Smith, Big Gipp, Cyndi
Lauper, Kiss and EMP may never see
the light of day. The soft drink’s owners,
the light of day. The soft drink’s owners,
Cadbury Schweppes, pulled the spots
after deciding to change marketing
strategies. Smith’s hit single
“Miami” was used in one of the
“Miami” was used in one of the
commercials. The company has
already featured Run-DMC and
Jam Master Jay, the Black Eyed
Peas and other rap groups
in past advertisements.
*8Ball & MJG are currently in
*8Ball & MJG are currently in
the studio completing work on their
next album, “Pure American Pimpin',”
next album, “Pure American Pimpin',”
due July 18 via Bad Boy. Their eighth
album overall features guests Big
album overall features guests Big
Boi, T.I., Juvenile, Jazze Pha, Lil Jon,
Avant and Floetry. To hear their
Avant and Floetry. To hear their
latest single, "For An Outfit", visit the
duo's official Web site at
duo's official Web site at
FILM/TV BITS: ‘Scrubs’ on iTunes;
‘Monkey’ on VH1; ‘Chief’ on Thursdays;
Richie’s new book; ‘Thief’s’ low ratings;
Richie’s new book; ‘Thief’s’ low ratings;
Tyson wants TV gig.
*NBC’s “Scrubs” has been
*NBC’s “Scrubs” has been
added to the list of television shows
available for download on Apple
available for download on Apple
Computer Inc.'s iTunes for $1.99. The
comedy, featuring Donald Faison and
comedy, featuring Donald Faison and
Judy Reyes opposite Zach Braff, is
produced by Disney-ABC Television
produced by Disney-ABC Television
Group's Touchstone Television. It’s
arrival at iTunes marks the first time
arrival at iTunes marks the first time
a network series produced by
a competing media company
have teamed up to make their
product available for download.
*CBS’ cancelled series “Love
*CBS’ cancelled series “Love
Monkey,” co-starring Larenz Tate,
will finish out the season on VH1, its
sister station under Viacom. The music
channel will air all eight hourlong episodes
channel will air all eight hourlong episodes
of the show beginning next
month, a network spokeswoman said
month, a network spokeswoman said
Wednesday. The dramatic comedy, which
looks at life and love through a jaded,
looks at life and love through a jaded,
single, 30-something music scout
played by Tom Cavanaugh, premiered
played by Tom Cavanaugh, premiered
on CBS in January, but was yanked after
just there episodes. VH1 will air the
just there episodes. VH1 will air the
three previously seen shows
back-to-back on April 11, starting at
back-to-back on April 11, starting at
7 p.m. The remaining five installments
will air weekly on Tuesdays at 9 p.m.
will air weekly on Tuesdays at 9 p.m.
beginning April 18.
*ABC’s “Commander In Chief,”
*ABC’s “Commander In Chief,”
co-starring Harry J. Lennix as Chief
of Staff to the first woman President
of the United States (Geena Davis),
will return to the network’s lineup on
Thursday April 13 at 10 p.m. The show
moves out of its previous Tuesday
moves out of its previous Tuesday
timeslot and out of the line-of-fire from
Fox’s “American Idol” and “House.”
Fox’s “American Idol” and “House.”
“Chief” will air at 10 p.m. Thursdays
for the rest of the season with Simon
Cowell’s successful “American
Inventor” as its lead-in.
*”The Simple Life” star Nicole
*”The Simple Life” star Nicole
Richie is writing a second book on
the subject of fashion and cosmetics.
"It's called ‘Nicole Richie Style.’ It's
going to be about her hair, make-up
going to be about her hair, make-up
and clothing," a source told Contact
Music. The project follows her 2005
Music. The project follows her 2005
book debut, “The Truth About Diamonds,”
also about fashion and beauty. A rep
also about fashion and beauty. A rep
for Richie confirms a book is in the
works, but says the title and content
works, but says the title and content
are yet to be decided.
*The premiere of “Thief,” starring
*The premiere of “Thief,” starring
Andre Braugher, gave FX its lowest
rating for a drama premiere in the
rating for a drama premiere in the
history of the network. It’s 2.5 million
viewers on Tuesday rated behind pilot
viewers on Tuesday rated behind pilot
premieres of "The Shield" (4.8
million), "Rescue Me" (4.1 million),
million), "Rescue Me" (4.1 million),
"Nip/Tuck" (4.1 million) and "Over
There" (3.7 million). Meanwhile, FX’s
There" (3.7 million). Meanwhile, FX’s
breakout hit "Black.White." has
settled to a respectable 1.6 million
settled to a respectable 1.6 million
viewers between 18-49 after a monster
debut three weeks ago.
*George Clooney’s Academy
debut three weeks ago.
*George Clooney’s Academy
Award gift bag fetched $45,100 at an
auction to raise money for the United
auction to raise money for the United
Way’s hurricane response and recovery
efforts. The high volume of bids in the
efforts. The high volume of bids in the
closing minutes on March 28
triggered a special feature called
triggered a special feature called
"bid extension" that allowed bidding
to continue in five minute increments
until no more bids were received,
resulting in the $45,100 winning
resulting in the $45,100 winning
amount. The gift bag included a Tara
cultured Tahitian pearl necklace,
cultured Tahitian pearl necklace,
a two-night culinary escape at the
Bernardus Lodge in Carmel, California,
Bernardus Lodge in Carmel, California,
a six-night stay in a suite at the JW
Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa, a Fairmont
Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa, a Fairmont
Hotels & Resorts vacation package
at one of three destinations, a $500
at one of three destinations, a $500
Gift Certificate for Kol Bath & Body
products, a $500 Gift Certificate from
products, a $500 Gift Certificate from
SignatureDays.com, a 60 GB Video
iPod, and much more.
*Mike Tyson is reportedly
iPod, and much more.
*Mike Tyson is reportedly
hanging out with strippers in the U.K.
these days and trying to get himself a
these days and trying to get himself a
job as a judge on an upcoming reality
TV show. According to the New York
TV show. According to the New York
Post, the former boxer was spotted two
nights in a row bringing “hookers and
nights in a row bringing “hookers and
strippers" up to his second-floor
suite at the Metropole hotel in Brighton.
suite at the Metropole hotel in Brighton.
He later told the Post’s Marianne
Garvey that he’s "gearing up for a big
Garvey that he’s "gearing up for a big
comeback" and trying to land a TV gig
as a judge on something called the
as a judge on something called the
"Celebrity X Games."
EVENT CALENDAR: Jagged, Paul
at ‘Style Stage NYC’; Urban League’s
‘Fantasy Cruise for Charity’; Ringling Bros.
‘Appreciation Reception’; HSAC in NYC.
*Jagged Edge, Sean Paul and
*Jagged Edge, Sean Paul and
Nick Lachey are on the performance bill
for "Style Stage NYC," a two day fashion,
for "Style Stage NYC," a two day fashion,
shopping and music event to take
place Friday, May 5 and Saturday,
place Friday, May 5 and Saturday,
May 6 at the Metropolitan Pavilion and
Altman Building, located at 125 and
Altman Building, located at 125 and
135 West 18th Street in New York
City. With over 60 designer sample
sales under one roof, shoppers can
also enjoy up to 60 percent off of the
hottest designer handbags, denim, shoes,
apparel, accessories and many more.
apparel, accessories and many more.
The two day event will be split into
three different sessions for admission.
three different sessions for admission.
Island will set sail to the cobalt blue
seas of Cozumel, Mexico for its second
seas of Cozumel, Mexico for its second
annual "Fantasy Cruise for Charity"
aboard the Carnival Inspiration June
aboard the Carnival Inspiration June
29 - July 3 from Tampa, Florida.
Performers Ray, Goodman & Brown,
Performers Ray, Goodman & Brown,
saxophonist Mike Phillips, Johnny 'The
Duke' Allen and DJ Lloyd Hicks will
Duke' Allen and DJ Lloyd Hicks will
also be on board. Guests will be able
to play golf at the Iberostar Playa Paraiso
Gold Club, or indulge in spa activities
and duty-free shopping. Reserve
cabins by contacting Ms. Walker
at 631-232-2482 ext. 19 or
at 631-232-2482 ext. 19 or
kjwalkerULLI@yahoo.com. Visit
www.urbanleaguelongsiland.org for
www.urbanleaguelongsiland.org for
information on Urban League of Long
Island programs and services.
*On Thursday, April 6, Ringling
*On Thursday, April 6, Ringling
Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus will
honor key community and business
honor key community and business
leaders in New York’s urban community
at the annual Community and Business
Leaders Appreciation Reception, to be
held at the 40/40 Club (6 W. 25th Street,
New York, NY) at 6 p.m. The event
gives recognition to the upstanding
gives recognition to the upstanding
members of the community for their
commitment to making positive changes
commitment to making positive changes
within the urban community. This
year’s theme is “Caring Enough to
year’s theme is “Caring Enough to
Make a Difference.” Twenty recipients will
receive a special award at the reception,
receive a special award at the reception,
as well as recognition on the floor of
Madison Square Garden at the circus
performance on Saturday, April
8 at 7:30 p.m.
* In honor of Hip Hop Summit
8 at 7:30 p.m.
* In honor of Hip Hop Summit
Action Network’s (HSAN's) 5th
anniversary, the next Hip-Hop Summit
anniversary, the next Hip-Hop Summit
on Financial Empowerment will be held
April 22 in New York City, the first
April 22 in New York City, the first
Hip-Hop Summit there since the very
first one in June of 2001. This year's
first one in June of 2001. This year's
"Get Your Money Right" tour includes
stops that coincide with the college
stops that coincide with the college
school year schedule on May 20 in
Miami, September 16 in Atlanta,
Miami, September 16 in Atlanta,
September 30 in Los Angeles and
October 14 in Dallas. For additional
information on HSAN visit
CHICAGO NIKETOWN WORKERS
ALLEGE RACIAL DISCRIMINATION:
Lawsuit claims black employees
were paid less and black customers
were sweated more.
*Eighteen current and former
*Eighteen current and former
employees of Chicago’s Niketown were
granted class-action status in a
granted class-action status in a
lawsuit alleging racial discrimination
against the company’s store on
against the company’s store on
Michigan Ave.
The workers claim that Niketown’s
The workers claim that Niketown’s
Chicago location, one of 15 Niketown
stores owned by the Beaverton,
Ore.-based company, practiced
systematic discrimination in its hiring,
systematic discrimination in its hiring,
promotions, benefits and workplace
discipline, thus subjecting the plaintiffs
discipline, thus subjecting the plaintiffs
to a hostile environment. The
2003 suit also alleges that African
2003 suit also alleges that African
American customers, including
professional athletes Tyson Chandler
professional athletes Tyson Chandler
of the Chicago Bulls and three Green
Bay Packer football players, were
Bay Packer football players, were
subject to greater scrutiny and monitoring
at the Chicago store.
According to the Chicago Tribune,
at the Chicago store.
According to the Chicago Tribune,
a federal judge expanded the base
of plaintiffs in the case to include more
of plaintiffs in the case to include more
than 230 African Americans who
have worked at the store since Dec.
have worked at the store since Dec.
17, 1999, which is four years before the
case was originally filed.
Among the allegations named in
case was originally filed.
Among the allegations named in
the lawsuit are: segregating African
Americans into lower-paying
Americans into lower-paying
stockroom and cashier positions; denying
opportunities for promotions to sales
opportunities for promotions to sales
positions by failing to post job
openings; hiring African Americans
openings; hiring African Americans
into part-time rather than full-time
positions that received benefits, such
positions that received benefits, such
as health insurance and paid
vacation; and subjecting African
vacation; and subjecting African
American employees to searches
when leaving the store, while Caucasian
employees were free from such searches.
Work rules regarding attendance, sick
leave and employee discounts also were
unequally applied, the suit said.
According to the Tribune, marketing
unequally applied, the suit said.
According to the Tribune, marketing
experts believe the allegations
are unsettling to executives at Nike Inc.,
are unsettling to executives at Nike Inc.,
a company that relies on
high-profile black athletes, such as
high-profile black athletes, such as
Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods and Kobe
Bryant, in its marketing campaigns.
"Minority groups tend to pay
Bryant, in its marketing campaigns.
"Minority groups tend to pay
more attention to this type of issue
than others," said Christie Nordhielm,
than others," said Christie Nordhielm,
a clinical associate professor of
marketing at the University of Michigan
marketing at the University of Michigan
Ross School of Business. "The fact
that the Chicago Niketown is a flagship
that the Chicago Niketown is a flagship
store, it will cause a bigger fuss
than most."
Nike spokesman Vada Manager
than most."
Nike spokesman Vada Manager
said in a statement about the lawsuit:
"We want to communicate to our
"We want to communicate to our
customers that we don't believe the
allegations made in the case are
allegations made in the case are
consistent with our culture of inclusion
and respect. We don't believe this
and respect. We don't believe this
reflects our corporate philosophy.”
The plaintiffs claim that between
The plaintiffs claim that between
January 2001 and May 2003, fewer
than 25 percent of the commissioned
than 25 percent of the commissioned
sales specialists, the highest-paid
employees, were African American.
employees, were African American.
Nike counters that its employment data
from 1999 to 2004 show that more than
from 1999 to 2004 show that more than
63 percent of the sales positions were
filled by African Americans.
The plaintiffs are seeking an
filled by African Americans.
The plaintiffs are seeking an
unspecified amount of damages,
including lost wages and benefits.
including lost wages and benefits.
A status hearing in the case is planned
for next week.
for next week.
EUR MOTIVATIONAL NOTE
Motivation123 Newsletter
by Jason M. Gracia
www.Motivation123.com
::The Truth that Changed a Life Forever::
Ben Johnson sat up in bed in a cold
sweat, his heart pounding fast. Looking
to the clock sitting on his night stand he
to the clock sitting on his night stand he
saw the time - 3:14 AM. It was at
that moment that his life changed forever.
that moment that his life changed forever.
With his wife sleeping soundly
next to him and his children safely in their
next to him and his children safely in their
beds, Ben was given the gift.
And you can have it, too.
It was around this time last year that
And you can have it, too.
It was around this time last year that
Ben experienced this revelation that
completely transformed his life. He was
completely transformed his life. He was
by no means unhappy or unsuccessful,
but he wasn't where he knew he could
but he wasn't where he knew he could
be. He wanted more out of life - a job
he loved, more friends, more money,
he loved, more friends, more money,
and peace of mind.
Do you ever feel that a better life is
Do you ever feel that a better life is
out there waiting for you, but you
don't know exactly how to make it
don't know exactly how to make it
happen? This is exactly how Ben lived his
life up until nearly a year ago at exactly
life up until nearly a year ago at exactly
3:14 a.m.
Today, using the gift he was given that
Today, using the gift he was given that
memorable night, Ben is enjoying his
life like never before. For years he had a
life like never before. For years he had a
picture in his mind of what he
wanted his life to look like, but day after
wanted his life to look like, but day after
day things never changed. Each
morning looked and felt exactly as the
morning looked and felt exactly as the
one before. It was a vicious cycle
that seemed to have no end in sight.
_______________________________
What Does Your Picture Look Like?
________________________________
If you are like most people, you
that seemed to have no end in sight.
_______________________________
What Does Your Picture Look Like?
________________________________
If you are like most people, you
also have a picture of what your ideal life
would look like. When you close your
would look like. When you close your
eyes, you can see an exciting career,
or friends and family that care about
or friends and family that care about
you, or a bank account that takes care
of every need you have. Perhaps you
of every need you have. Perhaps you
don't know exactly what you want, but
only know that you want something better.
We all dream about a better life, but
only know that you want something better.
We all dream about a better life, but
very few recognize and make use of the
gift. Very few achieve their dreams and
gift. Very few achieve their dreams and
live life the way it was meant to be
lived.
That is all about to change for you.
lived.
That is all about to change for you.
Today is your day to receive and
utilize the very same gift Ben made
utilize the very same gift Ben made
part of his life.
New Year's Eve was right around
New Year's Eve was right around
the corner when Ben recognized the gift.
Earlier that night he had been dining
Earlier that night he had been dining
with his friends, talking about their
New Year's resolutions.
As his friends and wife had completed
New Year's resolutions.
As his friends and wife had completed
their turns, the attention turned to
Ben and his hopes for the coming year.
After listing several changes he wanted
Ben and his hopes for the coming year.
After listing several changes he wanted
to make, the conversation quickly
turned to the unusually warm weather.
Ben's gift, the revelation that awoke
turned to the unusually warm weather.
Ben's gift, the revelation that awoke
him and changed his life forever, was
the realization that his list of goals he
the realization that his list of goals he
mentioned at dinner was identical
to the list he had one year before.
He was wishing for the same things
to the list he had one year before.
He was wishing for the same things
year after year, but nothing ever
changed.
Right about now you might be
changed.
Right about now you might be
asking yourself, 'What if I don't even
know what I want?' If this is true for you,
keep reading. If not, you can move
ahead to the next section.
I can tell you from personal experience
ahead to the next section.
I can tell you from personal experience
that not knowing what you want can
be a confusing, frustrating and miserable
be a confusing, frustrating and miserable
time. But there is an answer.
There are very specific steps you can
There are very specific steps you can
take to discover what it is that you
want, what goals will make you happy.
If you would like to figure out what
want, what goals will make you happy.
If you would like to figure out what
you want in life, visit the address
below to learn eye-opening and insightful
below to learn eye-opening and insightful
CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS
March 31: Musician Herb Alpert is 71.
April 1: Singer Rudolph Isley (Isley
Brothers) is 67. Reggae singer
Jimmy Cliff is 58. Jazz keyboardist Gil
Jimmy Cliff is 58. Jazz keyboardist Gil
Scott-Heron is 57. Filmmakers Albert
and Allen Hughes are 34.
April 2: Singer Leon Russell is 64.
and Allen Hughes are 34.
April 2: Singer Leon Russell is 64.
WEBSITE OF THE WEEK
HipHopHarry.com utilizes
hip hop culture and style to educate,
inspire and entertain children from 3-8.
inspire and entertain children from 3-8.
BLACK HISTORY
Mar. 31, 1850: Massachusetts
Supreme Court rejected the argument of
Charles Sumner in the Boston school
Charles Sumner in the Boston school
integration suit and established the
"separate but equal" precedent.
Apr. 1, 1984: R&B Singer Marvin
"separate but equal" precedent.
Apr. 1, 1984: R&B Singer Marvin
Gaye is shot dead by his father
after an argument.
Apr. 2, 1984: Coach John Thompson
after an argument.
Apr. 2, 1984: Coach John Thompson
of Georgetown University becomes
the first Black coach to win the NCAA
the first Black coach to win the NCAA
basketball tournament.
(Source: www.BlackFacts.com)
(Source: www.BlackFacts.com)
================================
EUR FEEDBACK (MYfeedback@eurweb.com)
*Icie, Seattle, WA:
"All I can say to Whitney Houston is you
are in my prayers! I have been the biggest
Whitney fan since I was like 8 years old.
It pains me to read all this negative stuff
about her (03-30-06 EUR). But at some
point, she is going to have to stop and
take heed to what is going on around her.
I can totally see Bobby Brown's family
just doing her dirty and they have probably
been that way from day one. When people
are jealous, they can act real shady all the
while smiling in your face! Tina Brown is
FOUL ... real foul! If she was so concerned
about her, then why is she reporting this
crap to the news? It's because she is
as scandalous as her 'NOT THE
KING OF R&B' brother, Bobby?
I just hope Whitney gets through
this and makes a come back but I won't
hold my breath. I will always be a Whitney
fan, but I am very disappointed in her path.
It's not because I ever thought she was
perfect or anything like that; it is because
she is wasting a talent that millions
would love to have.
And just for the record. Bobby ...
Tina ... whoever in the Brown clan, Bobby
is not and never has been the king of R&B,
ever ... Unless, as Jaime Foxx said in his
stand up, it is rocks & blunts!! And Tina
... how come you did not send out
information to news when you were
all smoked up?? I bet you had nothing
bad to say about Whitney when she
was paying for you to get high,
were you?
On another note, I recently read
somewhere that Beyonce and a couple
of other celebrities were getting all this
hate mail because of fur that she uses
in her clothing line, or they wear or whatever.
My question is how come PETA or other
like groups don't be jumping up in rapper's
facees about their use of fur? I watched
'Cribs' and one of the Ying Yang twins
pulled out a big ol' fur coat and I thought,
how come I never hear about PETA or
anyone else picketing outside one
of their venues? Just a thought."
*CaliRedbone (no city given):
"Okay, just read the 'alleged' tell
all by Whitney Houston's Sister in law
(03-30-06 EUR). Come on now, I know
she doesn't think folks are naive enough
to think (used very loosely) that it's humanly
possible to smoke an 'eightball' the way
she described it. Get real!
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