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06-26-08 EUR ALL ON ONE PAGE
TUESDAY'S OBAMANIA - FROM BET TO DOROTHY CHANDLER: Sen. gets LA love at Hollywood fundraiser and Barack-friendly BET Awards.
*While Hollywood elite were busy supporting Barack Obama at a fundraiser held in downtown Los Angeles, another very different show of support for the presidential candidate was taking place a few blocks up Figueroa Ave. at the Shrine Auditorium.
"If we all register and vote, we will have the first black president in the history of America," Sean "Diddy" Combs told the Shrine crowd Tuesday at the 2008 BET Awards.
His sentiment was echoed by artists who championed the senator in t-shirts bearing his name (Kim Whitley), acceptance speeches (Alicia Keys) and even during performances (a video screen behind gospel Marvin Sapp flashed Obama and his wife, Michelle, sparking increased applause.)
As she picked up her award for best female R&B artist, Keys told the crowd that it's time for black people to erase the word "can't" from their vocabulary. "Together we can do anything," she said, playing on the Democrat's "Yes We Can" mantra before shouting: "Obama y'all!"
Diddy took his moment at the podium to chant "Obama or Die" — a play on his neutral "Vote or Die" motto from the 2004 presidential election.
There was also support for Obama's campaign backstage. Rapper David Banner told reporters: "For the first time in history, we have the opportunity for somebody who's not in the good ol' boy network to get into office. People talk about his lack of experience, but there's people with much more experience who haven't done such a good job."
Backstage, Humanitarian Award winner Quincy Jones said he wanted Obama to create a Secretary of Culture position if his White House run is successful. Actress Nia Long, meanwhile, gave props to would-be first lady Michelle Obama.
"Michelle is graceful, beautiful and not afraid to be exactly who she is," Long said backstage. "It's wonderful to see their love in the midst of all the political madness. They have something we should all be proud of. She's smart. She's educated. And she's fearless. I'd love to have tea with her one day."
BET's annual event started off with host D.L. Hughley poking fun at the Illinois senator, stating "He's like a tall Urkel dude."
"He does look like the dude from 'Mad' magazine. But for the first black president, I'll take him," said Hughley. "Like, how bad a president is George Bush, when the country goes, 'You know, we'll try the black guy?'"
Stephen Hill, executive vice president of entertainment and music programming at BET, said there was talk of having Obama attend the BET Awards but it didn't work out. "We would've loved it if he would've stopped by," said Hill.
Meanwhile, Obama did appear several miles up the road at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles for a fundraiser that featured supermodels Heidi Klum and Cindy Crawford, boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard and movie stars Samuel L. Jackson, Kerry Washington and John Malkovich.
Don Cheadle and Dennis Quaid addressed the crowd, and Klum's husband Seal performed while accompanied on piano by producer David Foster. Others in the star-studded audience included Leonard Nimoy, will.i.am, Lisa Ling, Zooey Deschanel, indie rock band Death Cab for Cutie, producer Lawrence Bender, studio honcho Sherry Lansing and what one rally-goer described to E! Online as "the entire Kennedy clan."
View Obama's address to the Dorothy Chandler crowd here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=SMtIAsMq0ec
INDIA.ARIE PREPARES FOR BROADWAY DEBUT: Singer cast as lead of Whoopi-produced 'For Colored Girls.'
*India.Arie will make her Broadway debut this August in the upcoming revival of Ntozake Shange's "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf," produced by Whoopi Goldberg.
According to Playbill.com, this new Broadway production from director Shirley Jo Finney features choreography by Tony winner Hinton Battle and includes updated writing to make it more relevant to women today; expect a reference to the Iraq war instead of Vietnam, and there will be a new story about a woman faced with HIV infection.
"For Colored Girls...," a prose-poem portrait of black women in America, originally featured Shange and Trazana Beverley, who won a Tony for her performance.
Whoopi Goldberg and DreamTeam Entertainment Group (Victor Walker, Harold Wheeler and Ned Goldstein) serve as executive producers for the revival. Complete casting will be announced shortly.
Previews will begin at the Circle in the Square Theatre beginning Aug. 19. The official opening will begin Sept. 8. Tickets go on exclusive sale to American Express Card members July 9. Tickets for the general public will be available beginning July 19.
NAOMI CAMPBELL TOSSED FROM MANDELA EVENT?: Former South African leader reportedly disappointed by her recent behavior.
*A British newspaper reported Wednesday that Nelson Mandela wants no part of Naomi Campbell at his 90th birthday concert, to be held tomorrow at London's Hyde Park as a fundraiser for his 46664 charity.
According to the Daily Mail, the former South African leader told organizers to remove her from the line-up after expressing disappointment with her recent arrest at Heathrow Airport – particularly because she was wearing a 46664 baseball hat when authorities escorted her off the plane for assaulting two cops.
A source told the newspaper: "Naomi was slated to introduce some of the acts on stage as she has done with 46664 concerts in the past, but she has been informed that this time she can only sit in the grandstand."
The number 46664, Mandela's prison number for 27 years, now represents his AIDS awareness campaign.
The source added: 'Naomi and Mandela share a bond, but her recent arrest really disappointed him. The organizers felt that this type of negative publicity goes against everything Mandela stands for and didn't want her arrest to be associated with the charity concert. Everyone hopes this may teach her a lesson as the concert means so much to her."
Meanwhile, Campbell's rep downplayed her involvement in Friday's event, stating Tuesday: "Naomi had never planned to go to the concert but she has been invited as a guest to his dinner tonight."
Friday's show, hosted by Will Smith, will feature performances by Amy Winehouse, Queen with Paul Rodgers, Annie Lennox, Leona Lewis, Sugababes, Razorlight and Simple Minds. Special guests set to appear include Gordon Brown, Lewis Hamilton, Prince William and Prince Harry, and Bill and Hillary Clinton.
Campbell, 38, was fined and sentenced to 200 hours' community service last week for assaulting two police officers on a British Airways flight at Heathrow in April.
KANYE BLOGS ABOUT BONNAROO BOO-BOO: Rapper doesn't appreciate backlash over his late performance.
*Kanye West put up a blog posting Tuesday that said the recent flak over his delayed performance at Bonnaroo has left him "the most offended I've ever been."
The rapper's gig on June 15 was supposed to start at 2:45 a.m., but West didn't hit the stage until 4:25 a.m., angering much of the crowd who had stayed up late to see the rapper perform.
The delay was blamed on problems with West's elaborate stage set, which included an interplanetary landscape of a wavy black platform and a large video monitor. The crowd grew antsy and began pelting the stage with glow sticks and beer while waiting for Kanye to perform. Soon, folks were chanting, "Kanye sucks."
Writing Tuesday on his blog, West said he takes offense at the thought of people thinking he doesn't care about his fans.
"This Bonnaroo thing is the worst insult I've ever had in my life," West wrote. "This is the most offended I've ever been ... this is the maddest I ever will be."
He also criticized the festival for not defending him in a statement. The event's spokesman, Ken Weinstein, told The Associated Press that West's delay was caused by the unloading of Pearl Jam's stage, referring to the rock band that performed before Kanye and who was also running late.
West blogged that he and the festival organizers discussed his complicated stage setup for about a month before the concert. He said it was clear he was "dealing with ... idiots who didn't really have the capacity to really put on this show properly."
The artist also blamed thrown bottles for malfunctions with his "Jane screen." (In the concept concert, Jane is the HAL-like disembodied female robotic voice of his spaceship.)
"It broke my heart that I couldn't give these fans 'Stronger' in its greatest form," said West, referring to his hit song. "I'm sorry to everyone that I didn't have the ability 2 give the performance I wanted to. I'm sorry."
View Kanye's entire posting here: http://www.kanyeuniversecity.com/blog/?em3106=196808_-1__0_~0_-1_6_2008_0_0&
em3161=&em3281=
DEATH ROW UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP: Suge loses appeal; label auctioned to Global Music Group for $24 million.
*Global Music Group is the new owners of famed West coast-based rap label Death Row Records after former owner Marion "Suge" Knight lost his appeal Tuesday against a ruling that forced him to sell off the label's assets.
In May, a bankruptcy judge in California ordered the rap mogul to liquidate the label at an auction. The sale was supposed to take place on Tuesday. Instead, Suge was in court trying to stop it from happening.
His motion was denied and the auction was immediately back on. The highest offer, $24 million, came from Global Music Group's owner Susan Berg.
Included with the sale of the label are 20 unreleased tracks from late rapper Tupac Shakur.
RUBEN STUDDARD GIVES UP WEDDING DETAILS: "Idol" champ to get married this weekend with 20 groomsmen on hand – at least.
*With a fresh marriage license in their pockets, "American Idol" champ Ruben Studdard and his fiancée Surata Zuri McCants are planning a huge wedding in his Birmingham hometown this weekend.
The singer, 29, tells People that he'll have at least 20 groomsmen at his side during the ceremony at Canterbury United Methodist Church in the Mountainbrook neighborhood of Birmingham.
The fellas, including Studdard, will wear black Joseph Abboud tuxedos from local outfitter Mr. Burch Formal Wear, according to a source. The groomsmen will wear black shirts with black vests while Studdard will wear a white vest and a white hand-tied bow tie, according to People.
As previously reported, Studdard and McCants, 30, obtained a marriage license Monday at the Shelby County Probate Office in Columbiana, Ala.
PACMAN IS PRAYING FOR DON IMUS: Adam Jones says he's 'truly upset' over radio jock's comments.
*Suspended Dallas Cowboys player Adam "Pacman" Jones has weighed in on the latest Don Imus controversy after the radio host seemed to suggest that his numerous arrests and legal problems are par for the course because he's black.
"I'm truly upset about the comments. Obviously, Mr. Imus has problems with African Americans," Jones told the Dallas Morning News. "I'm upset, and I hope the station he works for handles it accordingly. I will pray for him."
Imus, who was fired from his previous radio gig last year for making racist remarks about the Rutgers women's basketball team, was discussing Jones' rap sheet Monday when he asked his co-host "What color is he?" Told that the cornerback is African American, Imus said: "Well, there you go. Now we know."
The radio vet said on the air Tuesday that his comment was misunderstood, and he was only trying to make a point about the unfair treatment of blacks by the legal system.
COREY GUNZ ON CONTEXT OF SHAQ'S FREESTYLE: Rapper says baller jumped on stage during his b'day gig. Plus, Laker fan Snoop weighs in.
*Cory Gunz, the son of rapper Peter Gunz, was the person seen next to Shaquille O'Neal in an Internet clip of the Phoenix Suns star dissing his former Los Angeles Lakers teammate Kobe Bryant in a freestyle.
"That was on my birthday on Sunday," Cory told MTV News on Tuesday. "It's all in fun. People thought he was doing it just to take shots at Kobe. He's not even thinking about [Kobe] like that. As a matter of fact, it's no bitterness towards Kobe at all. It was all done in fun to get the crowd hype. That's what real MCs d get the crowd involved."
Shaq's anti-Kobe rap ridiculed his team's loss to the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals, and blamed him for the end of his marriage to Shaunie.
Corey's father Peter, best known for his 1998 hit "Déjà Vu (Uptown Baby)" with Lord Tariq, was one of several people other than Shaq who jumped on the mic that night at the Village Underground club in lower Manhattan.
"It was a few performers there," Gunz said. "My dad performed. He got on the set, gave me a birthday shout-out. I went up there and performed a couple of verses. After me, Shaquille came up on surprise mode. He was playing around, freestyling, joking around. All that stuff was off the top of his head. On his leisure time he does that. It's all done in fun. He sits around the house and freestyles. He snaps on me. That's what he does. That's Shaquille."
Meanwhile, die-hard Lakers fan Snoop Dogg gave his two cents about the freestyle during a call-in segment Tuesday on Phoenix's Nutz in the Morning radio show.
"I love it, because it only makes for a great game on the court," Snoop told the hosts. "Both of them is rappers; they tried rapping before. They know ain't no rules when it comes to rapping. Shaq has all access and the right to do and say what he wants to say in fun, in the spirit of rap."
GUMBEL, HBO HIT WITH $5 MILLION DEFAMATION SUIT: Sports memorabilia authenticator upset with 'Real Sports' segment.
*Bryant Gumbel is being sued for defamation – along with his employer HBO and a reporter from his show "Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel – by a sports memorabilia authenticator accused of being the go-to guy for a forgery ring.
The "Real Sports" segment, entitled "Forger's Paradise" was about fake signed sports memorabilia sold to the public over the Internet and the FBI investigation called "Operation Bullpen" that in 2000 broke up a forgery ring and seized an alleged $10 million in counterfeit memorabilia.
The piece named Frangipani as the forgery ring's authenticator of choice and alleged that Frangipani had knowingly provided fake Certificates of Authenticity for thousands of forged items.
According to the Associated Press, the $5 million lawsuit claims HBO deliberately defamed Frangipani even though he was never indicted or charged with involvement in the forgery ring. The suit also claims the HBO segment relied on accusations by Sheldon Jaffe, who had pleaded guilty to taking part in the forgery ring and who it says "is very hostile" to Frangipani.
In addition to HBO and Gumbel, the suit filed in U.S. District Court in Manhattan also names as defendants on-air reporter Armen Keteylan and several of the show's producers.
CANDACE PARKER GETS HER CONSECUTIVE DUNKS ON: Plus, Sparks rookie named nation's top female college athlete.
*Hours after becoming the second player to dunk in a WNBA game, Los Angeles Sparks rookie Candace Parker received the Honda-Broderick Cup on Monday as the nation's top female college athlete, reports the Associated Press.
In Sunday's 77-63 win over the Indiana Fever, Parker dunked on a breakaway, scoring two of her 10 points in the game. That night, she boarded a red-eye to New York and landed at 8:30 a.m. – three hours before the Honda-Broderick Cup ceremony at Columbia University. The award presentation came on the 36th anniversary of the enactment of Title IX, which bans discrimination in education and sports.
"I still consider this generation to be pioneers of women's sports, because my mom didn't have the same opportunities I have, and my daughter sure will have way more opportunities than I had," Parker said. "That's what I'm playing for."
With trophy in hand, the former University of Tennessee star got back on a flight Monday night and got home in time for the Sparks' game Tuesday against Seattle – where she dunked again en route to a 22 point performance and the team's 76-62 win.
Parker led Tennessee to its second consecutive NCAA title in April, after which the Sparks made her the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft. Past Honda-Broderick Cup winners include Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Mia Hamm.
KIM COLES TO HOST NEW VERSION OF 'DATING GAME': GSN hires actress as part of show's revival.
*Kim Coles has been tapped by the Game Show Network (GSN) to host one of its new shows – a revival of 1970s and 80s staple "The Dating Game."
The former star of "Living Single" is part of the show's overall update, which will include the addition of modern elements such as online dating sites.
Coles is the latest in a long line of "Dating Game" hosts, beginning with Jim Lange and includeing Elaine Joyce, Jeff MacGregor, Brad Sherwood and, perhaps most famously, Chuck Woolery.
Additionally, the cable channel hired stand-up comic Judy Gold to host a revival of "The Newlywed Game," which also originated in the 1970s.
JUSTIN GATLIN BLOCKED FROM OLYMPIC TRIALS: Banned sprinter denied by a judge, despite being wronged by USOC.
*A federal judge on Tuesday snuffed out the 2008 Olympic dreams of track star Justin Gatlin.
His bid to compete in the trials this weekend in Eugene, Ore. was blocked by Judge Lacey Collier, who ruled that determining the United States' participation in the Olympic Games was the "exclusive jurisdiction" of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC).
He said Gatlin, who suffers from Attention Deficit Disorder, had been wronged in the process that resulted in his suspension, however, the court had no power to right the wrong.
Gatlin was suspended for four years after a 2006 positive test for the male sex hormone testosterone. The violation was ruled his second doping offense because the sprinter had also tested positive in 2001 for amphetamines that were part of a medication to treat Attention Deficit Disorder.
JAZZ GREAT ERNESTINE ANDERSON LOSING HOME: Friends and family are trying to raise money for her mortgage debt.
*Jazz vocalist Ernestine Anderson, who once worked with Quincy Jones and Ray Charles, is facing foreclosure on her home in Seattle after falling behind more than $30,000 in payments and penalties, public records show.
Family and friends of the singer are pleading for $45,000 in donations to save her Central District home, reports the Associated Press.
James Kelly, president of the Urban League of Seattle, said counselors will try to find out how Anderson got a loan that now asks for a monthly payment of $5,000. Gayton said Anderson's monthly income is $1,000 from Social Security, and at her age of 79, her performances are limited.
"She never should have gotten that loan," Gayton told the AP. "It's a difficult issue for her. The house is her mom's and father's home, since 1946."
More than 200 houses face foreclosure in Anderson's zip code, an area of Seattle that has been traditionally African American.
STEVIE WONDER TALKS ABOUT UPCOMING ALBUMS: Motown legend still working on gospel CD; adds new disc about experience with blindness.
*Stevie Wonder, currently on tour throughout the U.S., says he will follow up his 2005 CD, "A Time 2 Love," with two new albums currently in the works.
The first is "The Gospel Inspired by Lula," which he began recording after the death of hiss mother, Lula Mae Hardaway, in May 2006.
"Some of it is going to be traditional gospel but some of it is going to be ... I'm trying to do some (different) stuff," Wonder said during a recent conference call. "I might do something in Arabic. I might do something in Hebrew. My whole thing of the title is just saying 'Spreading the good word, the message.
The second project is titled "Through the Eyes of Wonder," which he described as a performance piece that will reflect his experience as a blind man. "What I want to do with our live performances is to create visuals that [give] my take on how I see the world and how most various things affected me," he said.
In addition, Wonder said he'll be involved in some special media pieces honoring Motown's 50th anniversary this year. Also, there were rumors that the singer would hook up with Tony Bennett for another duet album – this time singing a set of Marvin Gaye covers produced by Quincy Jones.
Wonder did not confirm the project but said that, "I'm the last one to hear about it and the first one to agree. Definitely Tony and I talked about doing some stuff together. And Quincy and I have always wanted to work together on a project.
Tonight, Wonder is scheduled to perform in Milwaukee at the Marcus Amphitheater.
TIGER HAS 'SUCCESSFUL' KNEE SURGERY: Doctors repaired torn ligament during operation Tuesday.
*Tiger Woods underwent surgery Tuesday to address his lingering knee problems, which hampered him during the recent U.S. Open but did not prevent him from winning the tournament in a 19-hole playoff against Rocco Mediate.
The reconstructive surgery, which repaired a torn ligament in his left knee, was described as a success by his doctors.
"We were confident going into this surgery and I am pleased with the results," Dr. Thomas D. Rosenberg said in a statement issued by Woods's management team. "There were no surprises during the procedure, and as we have said, with the proper rehabilitation and training, it is highly unlikely that Mr. Woods will have any long-term effects as it relates to his career."
Tiger, 32, announced last week that he would suspend play for 2008 to allow his knee to heal following its fourth operation.
"It was important to me to have the surgery as soon as possible so that I could begin the rehabilitation process," Woods said in a statement on Tuesday. "I am very appreciative of Dr. Rosenberg and Dr. Cooley and his staff's guidance and look forward to working with them through the necessary rehabilitation and training.
"I also wanted to thank everyone for their well wishes over the past week," added Woods, who initially had surgery on his left knee in 1994, to remove a benign tumor, followed by arthroscopic surgery in 2002. "I look forward to working hard at my rehabilitation over the coming months and returning to the PGA Tour healthy next year."
WHAT'S ON BARACK OBAMA'S IPOD?: Everything from Bob Dylan, to Yo-Yo Ma, to Jay-Z.
*The new issue of Rolling Stone, featuring Democratic presidential contender Barack Obama on the cover, features an interview with the senator that reveals the diversity of his musical tastes.
His playlist includes music from his formative years in the 1970s – most notably Earth, Wind & Fire, Elton John and Stevie Wonder, whom he described as his musical hero from the era. Also in the mix is his favorite song from the Rolling Stones "Gimme Shelter."
Obama has about 30 tunes from Bob Dylan, including the entire "Blood on the Tracks" album.
"Actually, one of my favorites during the political season is 'Maggie's Farm,'" Obama said of one of Dylan's tracks in which he sings about the importance of staying true to himself, "but everybody wants you to be just like them." Obama said: "It speaks to me as I listen to some of the political rhetoric."
As for jazz selections, Obama has songs from Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Charlie Parker.
Some of the artists on Obama's iPod are publically backing him for president, including Bruce Springsteen. Earlier this month, Dylan told a British newspaper that he believes Obama is redefining politics in the United States and could deliver change to a nation in upheaval.
"I've got to say, having both Dylan and Bruce Springsteen say kind words about you is pretty remarkable," Obama said. "Those guys are icons."
Obama said he hasn't met Springsteen, but the two have talked over the phone. "Not only do I love Bruce's music, but I just love him as a person," Obama said. "He is a guy who has never lost track of his roots, who knows who he is, who has never put on a front."
Asked what he thought of hip hop, Obama said the genre has broken down barriers within the music world, though he's concerned about its effect on his daughters — Malia, 9, and Sasha, 7.
"I am troubled sometimes by the misogyny and materialism of a lot of rap lyrics," he said, "but I think the genius of the art form has shifted the culture and helped to desegregate music."
He noted hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons and rappers Jay-Z and Ludacris as "great talents and great businessmen."
"It would be nice if I could have my daughters listen to their music without me worrying that they were getting bad images of themselves," he added.
'HANCOCK' WANTS TO PAY OFF YOUR MORTGAGE: Plus, star Will Smith kisses Dave Letterman during visit to promote film.
*As part of its promotion for the Will Smith movie "Hancock," Columbia Pictures is offering to pay off the house note of one lucky family through its "Hancock's Helping Hand Mortgage" contest.
Entrants must write a 200 word essay explaining why they are deserving of the grand prize, which is worth up to $360,000. The winning applicant will have their mortgage debt paid off by the studio.
To enter and find the official contest rules, log on to http://www.Hancockmovie.com. The program begins immediately and runs through July 6.
"Hancock" stars Smith as a misunderstood superhero who is encouraged to improve his public image when he meets a good-hearted public relations executive. The film opens nationwide on July 2, with special advance screenings beginning at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1.
Smith, meanwhile, went the extra mile during an appearance on "David Letterman" this week to promote the film. At one point during the interview, the actor gave the host a kiss on both sides of his face.
It started with Letterman complimenting the one-time rap star, stating: "Every time I see you, you just look better and better, and I’m wondering, because when you get to be my age you start thinking about…"
Smith interrupted by puckering his lips and leaning in toward Letterman. The host replied: "Oh stop it." Then Letterman leans in twice and lets Smith kiss him on each cheek.
"Once you go black, you never go back Dave," said Smith.
"This has taken an unforeseen direction," Letterman said. Band leader Paul Schaeffer chimed in: "Black is one thing, but this is ridiculous."
ITTY BITTY BITS: Janet's lingerie line; DMX sued; Darkchild Jr.; 'Baisden' addresses weight; Harlow saves mama; Female Success Factor in ATL.
*One day after Michael Jackson said he was developing a new clothing line with Ed Hardy designer Christian Audigier, news broke that his little sister Janet is also about to hit the fashion world with her own line of lingerie. Janet was in Italy for Milan fashion week when she broke the news Saturday at the Versace menswear show. She kept tight-lipped about specific details, but she told reporters backstage "I'm working on it," and that her new line will be in stores later this year.
*Just days after his arrest in Miami for driving with a suspended license, TMZ.com is reporting that DMX is being forced to auction off his Fifth Ave. townhouse in NYC in order to pay off a doggie clothing company after he backed out of a commitment. The rapper reportedly owes $281,000 to the business after refusing to participate in its 2004 promotional campaign per a contract.
*Producer Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins and his wife, singer Joy Enriquez, became the parents of Rodney David Jerkins Jr. on May 28 at 2:44 p.m. in Los Angeles. The couple's first child weighed in at 8 lbs., 9 oz. and was 20-1/2" long at birth. He'll make his photo debut in JET Magazine's July 7th issue, on newsstands June 30. Meanwhile, Rodney Sr. is in the studio working on new music for Brandy, Beyonce, Fantasia, Mario, New Kids On The Block (reunion album), the Black Eyed Peas and others. His latest hit is the track for the Pussycat Dolls' new song, "When I Grow Up," which he produced and co-wrote with the group's lead singer Nicole Scherzinger.
*TV One's “Baisden After Dark” will focus on weight issues this Saturday with a panel that includes AJ Johnson (House Party, Baby Boy), actress and comedienne Kim Coles (Living Single, In the Loop with I-Village), and author and emotional wellness trainer, Dr. Lawana S. Gladney. The episode, titled “Obesity in America – Why Are We So Fat and What Are We Doing About It?” premieres at 11 p.m. on June 28. Special guests are the original members of The Time, who will perform their iconic hit, “Jungle Love,” as well as the comedian, Damn Fool.
*Nicole Richie, a one-time fixture on the Los Angeles party scene, credits the birth of her daughter Harlow with saving her from a destructive path of drugs and alcohol. She tells British magazine New: "I never took life seriously before. I'm in a completely different place now. I owe my baby my life. I have a responsibility now. I have to really be someone I want my child to look up to. I'd really like to show how much I appreciate the fact that I'm still here, because I almost didn't get the chance."
*Please join rolling out urbanstyle weekly on June 28 in Atlanta for the Female Success Factor, an entrepreneur seminar designed for women. Under the theme "Creative Success," the event will feature TLC's Rozonda "Chilli"
Thomas, actress Caryn Ward of CW's "The Game"; blogger Necole Bitchie and CoverGirl Queen Collection finalist Janice Jackson. Aspiring entrepreneurs, women business owners and corporate professionals will take part in panels and networking opportunities. The first 50 ladies to arrive will receive free makeovers. Gift bags with CoverGirl Queen Collection products and computer give-a-ways will be available at the end of the event, which takes place from 1-4 p.m. at the Atlanta History Center, Woodruff Auditorium (130 W. Paces Ferry Rd.) Please RSVP at www.rollingout.com or www.femalesuccessfactor.com.
SPORTS BITS: Ray Lewis sued; Parker covers NBA Live 09; Jordan snubs kid.
*NFL star Ray Lewis is being sued by Arizona promotions company Profession Events, LLC, which claims he never sent paychecks to the hostesses they provided for his Super Bowl party in February. According to TMZ.com, the Baltimore Ravens player promised several times to pay them the $5,780 owed -- but he never did.
*San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker will be the cover athlete and spokesman for EA Sports' videogame NBA Live 09. The avid gamer won an NBA Live 08 tournament against fellow NBA stars at the EA Sports All-Star Challenge last February in New Orleans. “I have a long history with EA Sports. I’ve been on the cover in France for five years straight and I’ve been playing NBA Live for as long as I’ve played basketball,” said Parker. “It’s a real honor for me as a European player to now be represented on the worldwide cover.”
*The New York Post's Page Six says Michael Jordan snubbed a little kid who asked him for an autograph outside of a Miami hotspot. According to the column, His Airness was waiting for valet to bring his car around at the Kobe Club when a little boy approached. "The boy told Michael he was wearing Jordan sneakers and asked him if he could snap his photo," said the spy. "Michael kept walking and got in his car, leaving the kid behind in tears. He was so upset he threw the disposable camera on the ground and broke it."
EUR FILM REVIEW: Quid Pro Quo
Kinky Psychological Thriller Explores a Rare Erotic Compulsion
Film Review by Kam Williams
*On April 5, 1989, Isaac Knott (Nick Stahl) survived a horrible automobile accident in which of both of his parents (Michal Sinnott and Joshua Leonard) perished.
Not only did the grieving eight year-old have to handle the emotional burden of suddenly being orphaned, but he also had to adjust instantly to the prospect of spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair.
For the tragedy had left him a paraplegic, and he was now fated to grow up frequently feeling frustrated by the overwhelming urge to stand up and walk again.
Fortunately, Isaac never let the infirmity hold him back, and he went on to become a successful reporter for a public radio station in New York City.
In this capacity, he received an anonymous tip about a man who had offered a doctor a quarter million dollars to amputate one of his perfectly good legs. Curious about why anyone would want to be a cripple, the journalist in Isaac was compelled to determine whether there was any truth to the bizarre rumor.
His ensuing investigation leads to Fiona (Vera Farmiga), a curator of Chinese artifacts who confesses to having an erotic compulsion to become physically handicapped. As she explains it, she thinks of herself as a paralyzed person in a healthy body. What's more, she offers to introduce Isaac to other weirdoes who share her mental disorder. Soon, with her assistance he finds himself immersed in a kinky subculture he had no idea existed, a perverse universe with mind-boggling mysteries just begging to be unraveled.
This is the deceptive premise of Quid Pro Quo, a twisted psychological thriller marking the brilliant, if decidedly macabre, directorial debut of Carlos However, the film is far more than a well-crafted conundrum exploring the motivations of confused wannabe cripples, for en route to uncovering the answers sexual tension and other surprises arise between the protagonists, and the two take out time to pursue passion and the past.
An outsider adventure strictly for the very open-minded, presenting the numbness of paralysis, ironically, as a potential source of paroxysms of pleasure.
Very Good (3 stars)
Rated R for sexuality and profanity.
Running time: 82 minutes
Studi Magnolia Pictures
To see a trailer of the film, visit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4F_S6rA0ao
or: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EHeQm5oYkw
JOSEPH C. PHILLIPS: Pardon me if I don't throw rice
*This past Monday at 5:01 p.m., homosexual marriage became legal in California. Pardon me if I don’t throw rice.
Last month, the California Supreme Court rode rough shod over the will of California voters, the California legislature, which failed in its attempt to legalize homosexual marriage, the clear will of the rest of the country (45 states have outlawed gay marriage), as well as cultural and moral traditions dating back to the beginning of time. Of course, this remarkable display of arrogance did nothing to dampen the spirits of the dozens of gay couples that lined up to receive marriage licenses and the dozens more that traveled to California from out of state in order to be married.
For these couples and those that will follow them, the decision of the California Supreme Court was a triumph for love. Of course, love was never the issue. There is not one argument offered by those of us that oppose homosexual marriage that puts the capacity of homosexuals to love or to be loved at issue. Indeed, to suggest that two human beings are incapable of caring for one another deeply and passionately because they are of the same sex is as repugnant and backward as the idea that to oppose gay marriage is to be a bigot or a homophobe. Nevertheless homosexual marriage advocates succeeded in making the discussion about human worth, when that was never in doubt. What was and continues to be in doubt is the state of marriage when it has been reduced to a purely romantic endeavor and/or a way to gain benefits from government.
The purpose of marriage is not the demonstration of love and faithfulness; it is not about coupling. Yes, those are important elements of a successful marriage, but the purpose of marriage is the bonding together of a man and a woman for the purposes of bearing and raising children to be active and contributing members of society. The state encourages marriage through the granting of benefits because societies have rightly judged that traditional child centered marriage is best for children, best for the state, and ultimately best for the culture. No traditional marriage is not and has never been perfection realized. It is instead the grander idea to which all societies have striven since time immemorial, which is to say until a couple of California judges decided they knew better.
The fact is that very few Americans are really concerned with who is living with whom and what they do in the privacy of their bedrooms. Honestly, we cringe when thinking about our parents dalliances; we are not spending time conjuring up visions of our neighbors. What people are concerned with is what behavior government sanctions in their name.
The opposition to homosexual marriage is not an opposition to the idea of the universality of love, but a rejection of the idea that the state, and by extension, society must validate every loving relationship as equal.
If marriage is simply about coupling – sex and love and nothing more – then upon what basis would California or any other state deny “marriage equality” to those that favor polygamous relationships? Understand that I am not of the opinion that homosexual marriage will lead us down the slippery slope to bestiality or child abuse. However, I do think it a fair question to ask those demanding “marriage equality” what their rationale is for refusing state sanction of those life-styles even they disagree with. Why do the same romantic arguments not apply to those wishing to marry multiple partners? Does anyone seriously contend that human beings are incapable of loving more than one person at a time? We have already decided that the actual make-up of the family unit is unimportant so why not have three parents? Certainly children will benefit from three times as much love and attention. Or do we reject such arguments because we recognize that ultimately the institution of marriage must be about more than love and more than equal access to government benefits. And then, can’t we finally agree that society has a right even a duty to recognize the differences in certain of our human relationships and refuse validation of those it finds counter to its grander ideals?
Joseph C. Phillips is the author of “He Talk Like A White Boy” available wherever books are sold.
VERONICA'S VIEW: A Victory for the Village
Veronica Hendrix
*The road has been long and arduous, laden with many twists and turns.
But he made it, by sheer tenacity, guts and a gentle nudge.
As he crossed the finished line, the prayers of his ancestors were realized on a picture-perfect Wednesday morning.
And if faith is defined as the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen, the confluence of my faith was evident in this long awaited moment.
My soul was overflowing.
This was the day that my eldest son graduated from college.
As he glided across the stage in his black graduation gown, his tasseled cap looked like a crown.
My mind raced backward, thinking about the bright-eyed young boy who loved to bounce his basketball in the house, and stuff his mouth full of chocolate chip cookies when he thought I wasn’t looking.
Back then, I would dream of this day, even during those trying teenage years when his grades would plummet and peak like a stock on the S&P 500.
Today, he stood as a proud man celebrating his accomplishment.
He beat the odds.
He defied the paradigm.
He did what he statistically wasn’t supposed to do as an African-American man – attend college and actually graduate.
There has been a steady decline in the number of African-American males attending college over the past twenty years. And today, the rate of African-Amerian men who enroll in college is the lowest among all ethnic groups in the nation.
However, the number of African-American females attending college has continued to increase. In fact nearly 70% of all African-American college students who graduate are women.
My son, along with each and every African-American male in his class, is a statistic anomaly -- particularly when nearly one million African-America men are more likely to be studying behind the walls of prison as an inmate, and not as a student in the halls of Howard, Hampton or Fisk.
I am deliriously proud of him. His hard work can now pay dividends beyond his wildest dreams and mine.
However, he didn’t travel this road alone. He’s aware that he owes a debt of gratitude to so many.
Just as it took a village to raise him, it took a village to get him across this first finish line.
There have been many family members and friends who have supported him with encouraging words and benevolent deeds. Some listened to his frustrations about the academic system and implored him to press on. Others counseled him when he started to stray.
Some cooked him dinner, bought him a meal or purchased him a gift card from Ralphs Supermarket so he could put groceries in his pantry.
Many sent up prayers and put in prayer requests.
And some wrote checks because money always helps a starving student.
And why did so many circle the wagons to support my son? I think it’s because they get the big picture and the higher purpose. They know that each African-America male that defies the odds and shatters the prison paradigm represents an opportunity for that young man to build, lead and provide for his imminent family. It’s a hope, a simple act of faith and an intrinsic belief that my son’s personal victory is an irrefutable victory for the village.
Veronica Hendrix is a syndicated journalist and columnist whose work has covered the span of the human continuum - from clinical trials of male contraceptives, to the gang violence. She is the producer of the highly acclaimed half hour talk show called "LA Woman," which airs on L.A. City View Channel 35, and is a Los Angeles Emmy nominated producer. Veronica's career as a journalist has included being a reporter for USA Today and a producer for a radio talk show in Los Angeles, which focused on issues impacting the African American Family. Veronica is a proud native of Southern California where she lives with her two sons.
ASK ADVICE CHICK: Answers to YOUR Dating, Sex, Life, & Love Questions!
By - AdviceChick@ameritech.net
>>> Coming Soon … The ULTIMATE Ladies NITE Out CHICAGO!
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Dear Advice Chick,
*I met this really attractive guy. He is not what I would usually go for but I’ve been told to look outside the package. This man is so hood but so sexy & he has the meanest swagger and I love it. In addition, home boy is younger than me. He is extremely attractive so women throw themselves at him & he was under the impression I would as well. I didn’t! I guess he got tired of waiting on me to move so he did and we were mildly intimate but I wouldn’t let him “get it”. I could tell that burst his bubble & his ego, like no one tells Mr. I speak of myself in 3rd person no.
Not that I didn’t want to but I grew to like him and wanted to know him really well before we got all extra oh & plus he has a gal, so that would never go platinum with me. He’d been talking like they were about to end, so I see him lots and talk to him daily and I brought us up recently. I mean hell it’s been 7 more months, a year in total. He said he was still w/ ole gal and that I was so special to him he didn’t want to ruin us & that he didn’t want to treat me like one of these gals he just smashes. Huh? So he wanted to then I said no now he’s standing on this friendship mess. I feel like my ego was bruised. I don’t ask men stuff like that & to boot I NEVER have to. Damn I want him.
He gets jealous when I mention other dudes, heck even Tyrese and neither of us know him! Oh, Did I mention he mildly plays about being gay?! I’ll be looking like Suzan Sausage-Head & then he’ll say he’s playing. Now I know the down low brother is in full force but I’m starting to wonder.
I mean not to sound cocky but I’m cute, great job, kid free with a degree, really fit. I don’t get it. How can this super sexy, pistol packing d boy be a fun boy? His cousin will say stuff to me like “I got hope for yall”...now I think how can he when dude might be gay and has a gal that now he says he might be with.
FYI: We talk about everything but this gal. I don’t know her name and he seems to never be w/ her. I can’t see myself waiting but WOW! I’m too old (26) to just randomly be making friends and real talk he’s not much a friend and so secretive and it’s been a year. Like I had to figure out he was a d boy…he wouldn’t tell me and was acting like he owned stuff but was always home or in the streets. Damn while I’m writing this I feel stupid.
Is he getting back for me not jocking him, or is he having a battle w/ his sexuality or is he keeping me as his “special friend” until he’s done w/ ole girl so that I don’t go anywhere? Moreover, should I be his friend? I’ve tried to not talk to him and figured he would “get it”…but he’d send a text or leave a message then I feel guilty for not being there for him. I want him not the friendship that really isn’t one. He wants me to cook for him, chill at my place, want to go house looking w/ me and tell me how to dress but he has a girl. He needs me as an ear and a hook up to other hook ups. All that said I still want him.
Advice Chick replies,
I actually suffered through this entire mess of a message. This is one of those drama-filled scribes that make me wish I could come through the computer screen and lay the bytch-slap down. You claim to be cute, have a great job, kid free with a degree, and really fit. You forgot something, boo – dumb. It’s dumb as hell to want to be with somebody who has somebody AND who also might be gay. He has a girl, and possibly a guy – let it go! Is he this … Is he that … It’s not him, it’s you!
So sweetie, why don’t you pretend to have some sense, self respect, self pride, self worth, self esteem and stop playing games with your lack-of-love-life. There actually are guys out there that will treat you like a lady deserves to be treated. Remember, “cute with a swagger” is only impressive in music videos and movies.
ULTIMATE Ladies NITE Out CHICAGO will be held August 22, 2008! I’m seeking businesses and companies willing to provide items of value for my 100 goodie bag give-a-ways and my six raffles!
I’m also seeking sponsors. For more info, please express your interest in an email to advicechick@ameritech.net.
Send YOUR questions and comments to Advice Chick right NOW! Please put “Dear Advice Chick” in the subject line so your email isn’t deleted as spam. Thanks! Send your emails t advicechick @ ameritech.net
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Ask Advice Chick about ANYTHING and EVERYTHING related to dating, sex, love, and life! She is THE resident dating expert at EURweb.com, and calls on over 11 years of dating and relationship industry experience.
EUR MOTIVATIONAL NOTE
"The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles... but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly. " — Buddha
CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS
June 26: Singer Billy Davis Jr. of the Fifth Dimension is 68.
WEBSITE OF THE WEEK
This Virginia based site sells gourmet fruit baskets for all occasions It's has been well rated for its ease of use and wide collection of fruit baskets. www.freshfruitbaskets.com
Submit your favorite Web site to us along with a 15-20 word (or less) description to info@eurweb.com.
BLACK HISTORY
June 26, 1934: W.E.B. Du Bois resigned from his position at the NAACP in a disagreement over policy and racial strategy. (Source:
www.BlackFacts.com)
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