A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

I’m looking forward to a return home tomorrow to celebrate Ant’s birthday which is coming up on April 22^nd. I’ve been on the road – so we’ve got lots of celebrating and catching up to do. On one hand, it would be great to breathe a little bit, but – prior to my two week stint in Chicago on an assignment – we anticipated a friend or two of Ant’s would be coming to town. His frat brother Chris is popping up from North Carolina. You’ll recall, he hung out with us last year soon after Ant arrived (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/3/11/success-is-nothing-without-someone-you-love-to-share-it-with.html). He’s a sweet guy. So, it will be good to hang out with him again. But I must get re-energized for the festivities as I want Ant to have a great time for his birthday (plus, you’ll recall how kind he was on my last birthday i.e. Manila, Beyonce, karaoke, OH MY!!!!!). Still, my last couple of weeks in Chicago won’t be easy to shake off.

It started a couple of weeks ago when I got into Chicago. As is always my tradition of late, Chicago Carl aims to manage my social calendar outside of my work day. This ensures I don’t fall into my doldrums as I can when I’m away from home for long stretches of time. On one of the first nights, we went to Dixie Kitchen (www.dixiekitchenchicago.com/). We attempted Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles on the south side, but they were closed (www.roscoes.tribe.net/). Then, we wanted to do “Park 52" (http://www.park52chicago.com) – the latest in elegant dining for Hyde Park, but it too was closed. Regardless, Dixie Kitchen served us just fine with its soul food fare. My best friend from Morehouse Eddie joined Carl and me and we had a nice time, though Eddie was still disappointed that I would not be in New York for his approaching long weekend – including “Cat On A Hot Tin Roof” (www.cat2008onbroadway.com/), which I’ve still yet to see. (Fortunately, Ant, Ern, and Michael held down the fort and took care of him on a few of the nights. On one evening, they went to Element nightclub in Manhattan [http://www.elementny.com/] and Ant’s “Amazing Grace” Manivone even joined in on the fun!). Meanwhile, Carl showed me a little of the nightlife in Chicago. We went to “Circuit” in Boys town a couple of times (http://www.circuitclub.com). They do drag shows and – on our most recent night, which was a birthday celebration for the promoter Otis – we saw a go-go boy or two. It was entertaining (enough). Remember Jermaine Sellers (http://www.myspace.com/jermainesellers) from BET’s Sunday’s Best (www.bet.com/OnTV/BETShows/sundaybest/). See this clip and more on YOU TUBE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivtrB6jIkjo). He was in the house to sing happy birthday to Otis. And he graciously posed with me – announcing also that he’s going to be co-hosting BET’s Sunday’s Best with Kirk Franklin next season and hosting “106^th and Gospel” all by himself. CONGRATS JERMAINE! Keep doing your thing!

Speaking of IDOL competitions, I didn’t get a chance to see Mariah last night (though I anticipate getting it in upon my return home via DVD), but I had to be on top of viewing it last Tuesday night as I had to fly back to New York City for the day to do my Z-100 Idol Diva Chat with mid-day radio personality Shelley Wade (http://z100.com/cc-common/common-nyc/podcast/single_page.html?podcast=americanidol6chats). Here you can hear the most recent (with Shelley’s producer Jessica Pierro) and previous podcasts that Shelley has done (with and without me). Though I thought Michael Johns’ butt would keep him in the race, his butt was sent home last week (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtybxu9Tpr0). And thanks to Shelley for the recurring invites to weigh-in as I do on all things Idol and pop culture, but also, thanks for the invite to see Rihanna (www.rihannanow.com/) at The Highline Ballroom (www.highlineballroom.com/). And we must get that Waverly Inn in sometime soon.

After I high-tailed it back to Chicago to continue my assignment from my Z-100 appearance, I got to smother some of my sadness for only seeing Anthony for two hours with airport McDonald’s comfort food (www.mcdonalds.com/). This, in the wake of a deep cleansing facial and chemical peel from my favorite New York City dermatologist Dr. Lisa Airan (www.lisaairan.com/). But my fast food moment with the golden arches carried much more significance than an artery-clogging Big Mac. I tried the new “Southern Style Chicken Sandwich” and “Freshly Brewed Sweet Tea”. Don’t let the sophistication fool you, I love a good chicken sandwich (I’m from Savannah) and I’m happy to say that it pleasantly surprised me – even giving my other favorite Chick-fil-a a run for its money on flavor and juiciness (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/11/12/chick-fil-a.html). I don’t normally trust the chicken dishes from McDonald’s (not that I frequent the fast food chain, but I know what I like there. And I went so far as to get a bonus Big Mac in case I didn’t like the new chicken sandwich). I didn’t need the Big Mac. The chicken sandwich was so good! (WHAT????!!!!!!! MCDONALD’s is pop culture! SMILE!)

I got back to Chicago in time to do to Iggy's (http://www.iggys.com/) where Chicago Carl and I met Joqquin (who wanted advisement on bump fighter stuff as he was admiring my shiny and smooth – at the time – bald head. I squeezed in a haircut while in New York as well). To Joqquin and all who care, I recommend the following:

WAVE BY DESIGN ANTI BUMPING SERUM/After Shave Razor Bump Treatment - http://www.designessentials.com/de/search.jsp?sr=wave%20by%20design

And Chicago Carl says my good friend Lloyd Boston has some great recommendations for smooth shaving on his site: www.lloydboston.com/. While dining, we listened to the smooth, acoustic sounds of Vessy Mink (www.myspace.com/vessyminkmusic) a young lady who did a stunning version of Cyndi Lauper's "All Through The Night". Chicago Carl and I also got to get our J. Alexander’s in (my “Houston’s” knock-off) - www.jalexanders.com/. His “Amazing Grace” (one of many) Bionce Foxx (www.wgci.com/pages/f_bionce.html) joined us and it’s always great to see her.

Chicago proved a backdrop for other friends I haven’t seen in a minute. My friend Gil Robertson (www.robertsontreatment.com/) was in town with a client Kimberly Holland who founded and owns Icon Management Inc. (www.jurgita.com/agencies-id98766.html). Based in Atlanta, her sports agency is a home for athletes who need representation and a nurturing vision behind them. She and Gil were in Chicago for the United States Olympic Committee’s media conference (www.usoc.org/). Kimberly has a repository of talented sprinters who have won Olympic gold before and are en route to Beijing – Olympics 2008 to win some more. We chatted about their clients and more over drinks at Le Sardine (www.lasardine.com/) followed by another round at the elegantly appointed Palmer House (www.hilton.com) where I ran into the always-colorful-and- heartfelt Q – hairstylist for all the divas – like Iman and Naomi Campbell. He was in town working with VIBE Magazine (www.vibe.com/) on a shoot they were doing with the USOC. I too ran into Ebony Magazine (www.ebony.com) Senior Writer Adrienne P. Samuels, my NABJ sister. And Q (with whom I segued from Gil and Kimberly who turned in – at a point) introduced me to the Toronto-based photography team with whom he was working: Mark Zibert (www.markzibert.com/) and Andy Ferreira (www.andyferreira.com) – great guys with whom we broke bread at Miller’s Pub (www.millerspub.com). In search of something new, Andy mentioned he may be moving to Hamburg, I told him he should come to New York City before he goes to Europe and see “Passing Strange”, Ant’s and my new favorite Broadway musical (www.passingstrangeonbroadway.com).

Of course, I can’t be in Chicago for any stretch of time without my Ti-Ti getting in on some of the action. You know that she is a staple in “… the life of Riley…” She and I had some wonderful evenings out in Chicago – almost to the point where we felt like we were dating. At least, Lebron James thought so (www.nba.com/playerfile/lebron_james/). The Vogue (www.vogue.com/) cover model (first African American man to grace it) and NBA superstar was at Lumens (www.lumen-chicago.com) – a hot nightspot to which Ti-Ti took me for a little set. As he clearly looked as if he was interested in Ti-Ti (who brokered getting me – and only me – a picture with him that night for the blog), it seemed he got it twisted as he communicated to her that he was reticent to talk to her further as he thought she was with me. Well, it’s neither here nor there. But we sure got a giggle out of it. And lots more giggles as she, her friend Kendra G (www.kendrag.com/), girlfriend Kim, and I had a great time. I got the chance to hang a bit with another of Ti-Ti’s girlfriends Tiffany Nicole ( www.thegarmentroom.com/ ) about whom I wrote when she did a big Vintage show in New York City’s SOHO last summer (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/6/4/brothers-and-sisters-play-and-real.html). She is coming back to New York City this month (so check out her website for more information). But on this night in Chicago, she, Chicago Carl, Ti-Ti, and I joined Brian Boswell O’Neil (to whom Ti-Ti has been trying to introduce me for over a year now) for an evening at Bliss Spa (http://www.blissworld.com/category/spa.do) and W Hotel (www.starwoodhotels.com). Brian is the manager. The occasion was a Tom Ford eyewear trunk show (www.tomford.com/). What a lovely spa! And such nice people in the mix. Afterwards, Ti-Ti, Chicago Carl, and I did Mexican and wine at Ti-Ti’s place – one of two trips I would make to see Ti-Ti’s new living space in Buena Park.

Ti-Ti’s and my other domestic night was followed by a casual meal at Bar on Buena (www.baronbuena.com/). Great burgers and chili! Then, our below-the-radar start was followed by one of my true highlights of the evening (and in a long time) at Park West. To give you a sense of what the moment I’m about to chronicle meant, we must go back. Let’s take a couple of my fellow Windsor Forest High School classmate Jenifer Johnson’s pictures from her profile on my Class of 88s website (www.windsorforest88.com). They are shots of me in the ‘80s – sporting a high-fade box a la Fresh Prince, short shorts that accent my bony legs, and Dwayne-Wayne glasses (WHAT A SIGHT! LOL!). Though this is more our Senior year, the look of that time says it all. During that time (and even further back to elementary school and middle school), I LOVED Debarge! Like so many of the members of this legendary family, I’ve been blessed with a falsetto that I sometimes use as their records have played – dating back to “Switch” (the group which older brothers Tommy and Bobby Debarge formed on Motown - www.soulwalking.co.uk/Switch.html).  And then came “Debarge” (starring El, Bunny, Mark, James, and Randy). From “I Like It” to “All This Love” to “Share My World” to “Time Will Reveal” to “Love Me (In A Special Way)” to “A Dream” and on and on, I could go. I remember the first time – after “Time Will Reveal” (the single) was released – that I heard the first piano chords of "Love Me (In A Special Way)", the title track and follow-up single to ‘Time’ on the radio (E-93 - www.e93fm.com/ - which played all things hits and – Ern and I would find out years later, songs that weren’t hits… but they were to us, but I digress…). It was 1983 and my mom was getting ready to drop me off to the Coastal Empire Fair to meet my friends. I had to have that album at first listen and did get it soon thereafter for my birthday. And it still stands the test of time as one of my favorite albums. "Time Will Reveal"; “Stay With Me” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CinavBPMy-I); and "A Dream" are three of my other favorites on that project. (We got to see "Debarge" in Savannah as they promoted that album. They opened for Luther.). And then, came the younger brother Chico (http://www.myspace.com/chicodebarge1) who – in his own right – worked the charts in 1988 (more around the time of the pix you see of me above) and again in the mid-‘90s and he continued to carry the torch of excellence in song that his big brothers and sister shared with the world in the ‘80s. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nm_2Gd5denQ)

Now, fast forward to a few years ago when I meet a beautiful, sweet, and funny lady named Sherry. I think we were in Santa Barbara when we met, but we see each other often in Chicago. I find out – somewhere during this time – that she is the first cousin to the Debarge clan. Her mother is the sister of Mama Debarge. Moreover, I find out that Sherry and her twin sister Shelly sometimes sing background for Chico when he does shows around town and there so happened to be one that they were doing during my time in Chicago and they invited Ti-Ti and me. It was an annual gathering sponsored and organized by Chicago’s Urban League (www.cul-chicago.org/). Before KRS-1 (www.krs-one.com/) rocked the mic, the packed audience was serenaded by an in-good-shape-and-form Chico Debarge. We were provided VIP seating right up front and we were really excited to see "our" Sherry and her twin sister Shelly working the background vocals. (Sherry - a little under the weather - said she wanted to call me up to flesh out the high parts as I have been rocking my "Debarge"-esque/wannabe falsetto around Sherry since I found out The Debarges are her cousins! I was ready too!). In addition to Chico's respectable but modest catalog of hits (he has a new album out June 24th with Kedar management - http://www.myspace.com/chicodebarge1) and he – with class and candor - paid homage to his family's legacy in the music business. He did "I Like It" (from their "All This Love" album). He did oft-sampled "Stay With Me" (in its original entirety) from "In A Special Way". He spoke openly about his own drug problems and stint in jail. He thanked the fans for sticking with him (and his siblings who too have experienced some struggles over the years). Too, he shouted out his mother Mama Debarge's MY SPACE page (http://www.myspace.com/mamadebarge) and how she prays for folks via that hip, young social network. Moreover, he spoke openly about AIDS and the need for African Americans to be safe with sex as the horrible disease claimed the life of his brother Bobby who formed SWITCH. With that, he did a touching, haunting, nostalgic rendition of "I CALL YOUR NAME" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmNztRHEnzc) in memory of his brother. A touching moment! Overall, it was an awesome show and the ladies (SHERRY and SHELLY) truly held their own. Afterwards, we went backstage and held court with Chico. We were offered the sponsor’s drink Bombay Sapphire Gin (www.bombaysapphire.com/). Chico posed for pictures and made me feel like I was a DEBARGE (a dream from childhood). When I walked in, he said "These girls (his cousins and background singers Sherry and Shelly) LOVE you so much. They worship the ground you walk on. So, it's so nice to finally meet you. You are family. So, give me a hug!". I was so honored (and - y'all know me - slightly aroused, but no funny business here. He was ever the gentleman and - through the night - like an old friend or slightly older brother with whom I could just kick it. He was very present. Wanted to make sure everybody was comfortable and having a good time. And he's just an all-around great guy! When post-show/dressing-room action was wrapping up, he asked if we wanted to join him for the after-party at "Flat Water" Restaurant which transforms its basement (right on the Illinois River) into a late-night lounge/club (www.flatwater.us/). There was a VIP area for Chico and his entourage - now including Ti-Ti, Sherry, her husband Derrick, Shelly, a host of other friends, and me. I sat next to Chico and we chatted through much of the night – laughing and people watching. But, at his nudging, I also got up and danced with the girls and - as we did "Da Butt" and ‘dropped it like it’s hot’ - as if we were 21, a little crook in some of our 37-year-old knees reminded us all that our "black doesn't crack" but that our knees sometimes do. Regardless, it was an energetic, awesome night that reconnected me (and - for the first time - connected me) to a chunk of musical history that I cherish and still hold dear to this day. It was like A DREAM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uknY5SFn96c). MAKE SURE TO GET CHICO'S ALBUM WHEN IT COMES OUT THIS SUMMER. K? THANKS SHERRY... for the invite... and making - in no small way - one of my DREAMs come true!

On another night, my other Chicago BFF Ki-Ki and I got some one-on-one time plus two of her girlfriends she’s been wanting me to meet. An awesome makeup artist named Val and the lovely and funny Kim Coles (LOVE HER!!!!). We were to meet at “Bandera” – owned by same restaurant as Houston’s (www.hillstone.com/) but the wait was too long for the ladies. So, “Big Bowl” it was (www.bigbowl.com). But the scene and the cuisine mattered not because there was inevitably going to be ‘food for the soul’ on this night. Ki-Ki and I already have a spiritual bond. Come to find out that she and Val have a connect in their own way. Kim, who has been in Chicago hosting the now-canceled “I-Village” (www. intheloop.ivillage.com/ ), considered Ki-Ki to be an angel as she knew no one here in Chicago when she moved here (though she’s now heading back West). And now, Kim, Val, and I have a bond. Kim is such an energy - bright, present, connected, open, loving, spiritual, and just precious. She's a "melange" of all the qualities I love in a friend (See, Kim? I used it!). And in asking me about my birthday, she pointed out that I share a birthday with her “Living Single” co-stars Erika Alexander and TC Carson. We shared so much as this day proved a long and exhausting day for some of us at the table (arguably even morale depleting), but by dinner's end (great asian, soothing tea, and decadent desserts to boot), we were uplifted - less from the food (though it helped) and more from each other's company and sharing. I spoke of the life work I've done with Momentum Education (www.momentumeducation.com) - imparting (in brief) some nuggets that have supported me, including "The Empowered Relationship with the breakdown" and "Breaks in Belonging". I also shared with them a book a friend recently shared with me “The Greatest Secret in the World” by OG Mandino (www.amazon.com/Greatest-Secret-World-Og-Mandino/dp/0553280384). We talked about my Diana and her recent appearance on “Inside The Actor’s Studio”:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNZ7EQme-Sw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDKYRR3mBlY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wS2Ja2JNTvY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqvdRLJKrTU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTl4fICfPtw
We talked about Diana’s legendary TV appearance on her “Central Park Concert”. It was 1983 and we all remembered where we were on both days - the day it rained and the make-good concert the following day: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cK--Ha9fSI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6U-_1aKpOI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRs0VcrzVac
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dI03UJEbwqg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjVSdA_DdvY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7nGUy-OkPo

What a treat!

I will hopefully get to see Miss Diana Ross again on May 4^th as she is headlining “Divas With Heart” (http://radiocity.com/events/divas-with-heart-0508.html?s7455c19474178o47862t7472n35043e). It’s a benefit for the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory that also features Patti LaBelle and Chaka Khan. It features the American Theater Orchestra under the musical direction of Paul Gemignani.

In closing, I want to mention that w orld-renowned musician Wynton Marsalis has penned the first ever mass for The Abyssinian Baptist Church 200^th Bicentennial Celebration. It’s scheduled for this Saturday (www.abyssinian.org/). The Abyssinian Baptist Church is the oldest African-American Baptist church in New York and it is considered the first mega church in the United States of America. Celebrating their 200^th bicentennial, the Abyssinian Baptist Church has not only witnessed, but also participated in shaping the African -American experience. Wynton Marsalis feels a profound connection to the Black church as he feels Jazz is a direct derivative of the hymns created in church.

Some shout outs to my New York City peeps:

1. CONGRATS to my Frankie Edozien ( www.edozien.net ) and/or (www.africanmag.com). The NYU Journalism Department is pleased to announce that he will be joining its full-time faculty. “Professor” Edozien is an award-winning city reporter and co-founder of The African magazine. He will direct the summer Journalism in Ghana: Reporting Africa program and then teach full-time beginning this fall. So PROUD of him! ( http://journalism.nyu.edu/ )

2. Meanwhile, one of my other National Association of Black Journalists favorites Mara Schiavocampo, Digital Correspondent for NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams (www.msnbc.com) is featured in the new edition of Emmy Magazine (www.emmys.tv/). So PROUD of her!

3. And I too am PROUD of my good friend and fellow journalist Terrance Dean who will have heads turning and lips dropping as he has written and is set to begin the blitz around his riveting memoir Hiding In Hip Hop. It uncovers a hidden and well-known unspoken secret. Deep within the confines of Hip-Hop is a prominent gay sub-culture. A world that industry insiders are keenly aware of, but choose to ignore. From the testosterone of men striving to be on top and in control, to the “by any means necessary” bravado in an industry that thrives on power, homosexuality is a reality at nearly every level of Hip-Hop. Hiding In Hip Hop is a heartfelt sojourn of a young man searching for self, love, and sexual identity in the most homophobic places – the black family, community, church, and Hip Hop. Dean takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster ride as he becomes romantically involved with some of Hollywood’s and Hip Hop’s elite, and into an underground world of down low brothers, sex parties, and love starved celebrities. Struggling to find a place for himself in a homophobic culture Dean’s compelling story is one of hope, love, and in spite of everything, coming to terms with one’s self and being a catalyst for change and empowerment in the game of Hip-Hop. Order your copy today: http://www.amazon.com/Hiding-Hip-Hop-Entertainment-Industry

CONGRATS to you, TERRANCE!

Speaking of hip hop (but not the down low – the tutu notwithstanding), see my brother-in-law Vincent and Outkast’s own (and our other Savannah homeboy) Antwan "Big Boi" Patton, at his Atlanta Ballet premiere of “big” (www.atlantaballet.com/). It is a hip-hop inspired ballet which is receiving rave reviews and is expected to tour Europe. Patton performs live on stage alongside a series of new ballet set-pieces by the company's choreographer, Lauri Stallings. The music includes Patton's unreleased single “Sir Lucious Leftfoot Saves the Day” and a fusion of Guiseppe Verdi's “La Traviata” with the OutKast track “Morris Brown”. Look what Savannah can produce, huh?

Speaking of church (and as all roads lead back to Savannah), my Savannah homeboy and Morehouse brother Raphael Warnock is now the senior pastor at Atlanta's Ebenezer Baptist Church. From here, Martin Luther King led a movement. CBS News recently did a feature on him and how he’s continuing the Dream in Dr. King’s house:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/04/12/eveningnews/main4011327.shtml?source=search_story
It reminds me of a wonderful performance of “We Shall Overcome” that Miss Ross did a few years back: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFgiku_E1jA

Many blasts from my past are tugging at my emotions in a multitude of ways. My 20-year reunion from high school, for example, is approaching (I know! My black doesn’t crack and I still have my 29 waist from high school), but as I hear from my fellow Windsor Forest High School classmates – most of whom I have not seen since we crossed the stage for our diplomas at the Savannah Civic Center (I was graduation speaker), I am reminded that we all have a lot of mileage on our respective lives – from careers to spouses to children, “OH MY!”. And though we’ve lost some a long the way, I’m also excited to hear that everyone is doing so well and living their best lives. As some classmates reach out, I too am reminded of some wonderful friends I’ve had along the way. Hence high school, friend circles – for me – did tend to get a bit segregated, though my school was very integrated and chockfull of diversity. That said, I haven’t seen many – if not most – of my dear ‘white’ friends from that era at all. And as we are now reconnected via email and our reunion website, I’m overwhelmed with happy emotions for these abandoned yet cherished (for their season) relationships. Such a fond spot sparkles right in the center of my heart for old friends like Shawna, Beckie, Erin, Susan, Adam, Lisa, and then some. We’re still aiming to reach out to more classmates – so the reunion will be a success. If any of you are out there, click on www.windsorforest88.com and enjoy a walk down memory lane!!! Moreover, my Savannah homegirl and fellow Knight Tandi Reddick (also a Spelmanite)has launched something for Windsor Forest alums at large: www.windsorforest.ning.com and that has got even more folks from my four years in high school popping up to say HI! And if that wasn’t enough: There’s a site for the Morehouse/Spelman alumni community: Visit SpelHouse.net at: http://www.spelhouse.net. Not so much from the site (as I have stayed in better touch with my college mates), but I’m in the zone of reflecting on those college years as well. My best friend from Morehouse Eddie (based in Chicago where I’m working on an assignment now) is coming to New York later this week (I’ll be here. Fortunately, I see him often when I’m in Chicago). Also, another Morehouse College Glee Club brother Robert Petagrew reached out the other day. Always good to hear from my folks from back in the day as you know how much I enjoyed my Morehouse years (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/5/22/walking-in-strange-and-new-places.html) and how excited I am to have a legacy piece, my only nephew Herman Lee Riley III, matriculating through Morehouse, as I write this. He too is a Windsor Forest alumnus. See my pride as we witness his high school graduation. As our website reads like a MYSPACE for the Windsor Forest High School Class of ’88, my partner Ant updated my MY SPACE page. Please check it out as I try to keep up with the times and my younger, hipper significant other. Thanks Ant! http://www.myspace.com/thelifeofriley2k

During my college years, one mentor stands alone. It’s Ann Kimbrough, who was my advisor and professor at Clark Atlanta University through which I funneled my Morehouse College degree in Mass Media Arts (Broadcast Journalism). Ann and I have stayed in touch over the years. She holds a distinction as one of the only people I would allow to say she’s my “mom” as I have never been into the “play mom” business (as some), but most in particular after my mom’s passing in 1994, that distinction froze in time and I have held onto feeling like a “motherless child” because no substitute will do. That includes Ann Kimbrough. And yet, when she says she’s my “mom”, I know it’s coming from a deserving place as she stepped in maternal on the “college” and “professional” career tip in a way that has shaped me today. She coached me and worked me to ensure that I got all internships and scholarships that were going to help me forward my career. When I was ready for change, she supported every move – offering sage advice on how those transitions could benefit me most. And even when there would be moments we’d not talk for a year (or even five), I am always on her radar and she mine, which is why I’m excited to share this tid-bit from www.ocgnews.com: Kimbrough explores running for DeKalb CEO seat Voters may have another name to choose from on the ballot for DeKalb County’s next Chief Executive Office. Ann Kimbrough has launched an exploratory committee to weigh her chances for vying for the position. If elected, Kimbrough would be the first African-American woman to hold the post.
Among those in the race so far are Joe Bembry, DeKalb County Commissioner Burrell Ellis, Tracey McMeen, Angela Miller, Calvin Sims, and State Rep. Stan Watson.
Kimbrough, a long-time DeKalb resident, currently serves as the Chief of Staff to Vernon Jones. As Chief of Staff, the Clark-Atlanta graduate oversees the day-to-day operations of the executive office’s initiatives, serves as senior policy director for the government’s executive branch and interfaces dail y with residents, business owners and department heads to advance the mission of the Jones’ Administration.
With eight years of experience under Jones’ leadership, Kimbrough says that she will be able to build upon the accomplishments of Jones and continue to move the county forward in public safety, infrastructure and economic development.
Kimbrough, who was most recently recognized at the Atlanta Business League’s 2008 “Atlanta’s Top 100 Black Women of Influence,” earned a Master of Science in Journalism from Northwestern University and is a 2010 candidate for a Doctorate in Business Administration at Argosy University.
Kimbrough is a single mother of three. She has previously held leadership positions with Fulton County Government and the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games. She formerly worked for WSB-TV and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

One of Ann Kimbrough’s best pieces of advice was that I join the National Association of Black Journalists and all of its student and local affiliates (www.nabj.org). As you often hear me mention, NABJ is still a huge part of my life. I Chair the Arts & Entertainment Task Force. I often co-produce (with Morehouse brother and best bud Michael K. Watts) many of its big events – including the NABJ Hall of Fame Banquet which we are doing for the big convention in Chicago scheduled in July (www.2008unity.org).

And I’ve sat on the Board nationally and locally in Atlanta and New York City. Recently, I was asked to be a part of an esteemed team of jurors to judge entries presented by students from seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities (like Morehouse). The program is a part of NABJ's strategic effort to partner with CNN and it's upcoming “Black in America” series (www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2008/black.in.america/) – led by many investigations from Soledad O’Brien (who incidentally is excited about the “Big Sister, Little Sister” documentary on which I’m associate producing. She’s agreed to be one of our high-profile women of color to be interviewed for the special independent project that chronicles three New York City girls from their prom to graduation to college: www.bslsthedoc.com - in progress; www.myspace.com/bslsthedoc) . I recently blogged about it: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/3/15/twas-passing-strange.html.). Anyway! CNN has charged students from seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities and asked students to generate there own stories (iReports) on Being Black in America. Participating Schools include: Florida A&M University; North Carolina Central; North Carolina A&T State University; Hampton University; Howard University; Morehouse College, Clark Atlanta and Spelman. Seeing each students’ entry reminded me of the work we used to do at CAU-TV and WCLK. Like Mrs. Kimbrough said to me (and I continue to pay it forward), “I know each of you will go on to shine brightly into your destiny!!!!”

NOW, HOW DO I REFLECT ON THE LAST COUPLE OF WEEKS??? Well, let me just do it. This last two weeks have kept me on the road for work – a good thing! It too gave me some special New York City moments which are par for my course of pop culture and possibilities.

• Ant and I stumbled onto a cute sake/sushi spot in The Village on 6^th Avenue. It’s called Aja Asian Bistro and Lounge (http://www.ajaasianbistro.com/). It was the perfect place for us to workout our appetites and our pain bodies, which freed us to lift up our dear friend/plastic surgeon with the most Dr. Shirley Madhere (www.thenewaesthete.com) or (www.drshirleymadhere.com). It was her birthday. Location? Grammercy Park Hotel (www. GramercyParkHotel.com ) – just off Grammercy Park which always puts me in the mind of Savannah (any square will do - www.officialsavannahguide.com/article_8.shtml). (Did I tell you that I wrote a book with my 6^th grade class from Savannah (Largo Tibet Elementary) – with some of the aforementioned reunion folks – on… The Savannah Squares??? The book is titled: “A Child’s View of Savannah Squares” and it was hardback and informative with lots of pictures and good info. See how all the roads are leading back to Savannah? Or my early years??? WOW!). Well, back to Dr. Shirley’s party. It was on the rooftop/penthouse and we were introduced to some wonderful people who know how to socialize on the cocktail tip, including model and artist Aissata Pinto da Costa. Check out her work via: www.aissata.com or www.myspace.com/aisscool or www.redbubble.com/people/aissata HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DR. SHIRLEY! WE LOVE YOU… and look forward to picking up our dinner series with Mr. Ted Gibson and beau Jason (www.tedgibsonsalon.com/) who were missing in action. Ted? Jason? SOS!!!!!

• A shoot in Raleigh, NC had me at the Siena Hotel (www.summithotels.com) which provided southern hospitality that I always welcome when I travel below the Mason-Dixon line. I also met Carol B. Stack, author of “Call To Home: African Americans Reclaim Rural South” (Basic Books). This book relates the story of urban Black Americans choosing to return "home" to the rural South – something that could be my own reality one day. The book is based on research in rural areas in North and South Carolina, considered the top nonmetropolitan areas for Black Americans moving south. Unfortunately, my trip to Raleigh left a bad taste in my mouth because of Northwest Airlines (www.nwa.com). They bumped me from an oversold flight on which I was scheduled to board to get to Detroit for another assignment. (Now, don’t go imagining Diana Ross in Heathrow when the security person “touched” her in a too-close-and-personal-for-Miss-Ross kinda’ way or – more recently – Naomi Campbell’s arrest from a British Airways flight, but I was that angry…). I was confirmed to fly first class from Raleigh to Detroit on NW flight. One hour before, I got to kiosk to check in (didn't need to check bags). Machine rerouted me to ticket counter. NW representative (and subsequent supervisor) alerted me the flight was oversold and there was no other way to get me to Detroit before I needed to be there for business (the following morning at 9:00 am). A $300 voucher was being forced down my throat when all I wanted was to get to Detroit to do my work. This, as the entourage with which I was traveling, did make the flight (and would tell me later that there were seats available behind them - so that further disturbed me when I saw them the next day as the option NW gave me was to go back to Newark (my home) and - after my insisting they come up with an option to get me to Detroit by the next morning for my work - a 6am flight from Newark to Detroit (not optimum, but it got me to work). My experience of the workers was not cooperative, it was dismissive, and not urgent (as I asked them to ensure that the flight I wanted was full vs. these many options i.e. vouchers, flights the next day after the time I needed to get my work done, etc.).If not for my bottom line (which was to stay with the rest of the crew with whom I was working as we are traveling together for work - a point I clarified off the top), I could understand the lackadaisical way they treated me. But I was clear (and asked that they be clear before they push me away from my goal – to get on THAT FLIGHT!). So, to find that there was a seat(s) available and I wasn't in it, disturbs me and makes me not trust the way in which NW handles its customer service. Ultimately, at a point where a less-optimum solution came into play (going to Newark and getting up really early the next morning to go to Detroit), the supervisor at Raleigh's ticket counter did add a $100 credit voucher to the $300, but it couldn't - in that moment - salve the blow of unprofessionalism, inconvenience, and frustration. And a week and change later, I’m still awaiting a suitable reply from Northwest Airlines. THIS JUST IN: They sent a reply but need another pair of supervisor's eyes to review the case before they decide how much more generous they want to be in the way of retribution. We'll see...

• Well, if it’s any consolation, I did get to have dinner with my Ant and Ern. We went to Crab House (www.crabhouseseafood.com/) in Edgewater, NJ. Then, we joined Ern’s friends Miriam and Danielle, who remind me of our aforementioned Windsor girls, at Lua in Hoboken (www.luarestaurant.com/). Pardon the camera phone shot. I left my digital at home:

• Upon my return from traveling, Ant and I had to pull out our WELCOME MAT for his “Amazing Grace” Manivone who moved here (to Brooklyn) last week. Her roommate – also from Denver (and a friend of Ant) – is Alea. During their time here, we’ve been showing them around town – Manhattan and their borough of Brooklyn. The first night, we went to the Fat Black Pussy Cat (www.thefatblackpussycat.com/) to toast in their arrival. From there, we had a nice round of comfort food at The Waverly diner (on Waverly and 6^th Avenue). Another night, Ant and I had to indoctrinate Alea into our karaoke jones at the spot: One 17 (http://www.karaoke17.com/). Afterwards, we gave them a glimpse of some of our favorite go-go boys at Club Splash (www.splashbar.com). Then, we enjoyed a late night bite at one of our favorite overnight haunts “Cafeteria” (www. cafeteria247.com ). Another night, we joined Alea’s friends for a cool night of networking/partying at Upstairs in SOHO – above Café Bari (www.cafebari.com) on Broadway and Broome. We did a take two on Waverly that night (these girls like to eat), but only after we went to “Happy Endings” Lounge (www.happyendinglounge.com) which allowed us to take some cool pictures under red light as we sat in what once was an old steam room (perhaps more than steam was once going on at this place that is now simply a lounge). We had a great time! Lovely folks! Great energy! The shots remind me of my childhood/teenage/adult icon Diana Ross’ 1983 album “Ross”. That was the album with "Pieces of Ice". Remember? Whatever! One day, Ant and I ventured to their neck of the woods – Brooklyn – to show them around as both Ant and I consider Brooklyn a home away from home. We went to enjoy “Red Velvet Cake” in Fort Greene from “The Cake Man” (www.cakemanraven.com) and Brooklyn's BBQ (www.bbqnyc.com). Then, my friend and designer Moshood hosted us for a moment (www.afrikanspirit.com/). As I’ve written about before - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/7/7/summer-repeats-and-repasts.html, there was a time there (between 1995 & 2002), all you'd see me wearing was Moshood (with African mask on pants leg or shirt hem, etc.). And it fit many occasions - including formals, vacation, White House interview with President Bill Clinton, etc. And Angela Bassett, Chaka Khan, Isaac Hayes, Erykah Badu, and many more are often sporting his wears.
  Ant and I were pleasantly surprised on Saturday when we saw a new addition to his series of popular T-shirts (which are often adorned with positive, affirming messages like: 'IF YOU TAKE MY JOY AWAY FROM ME YOU DESTROY THE BEAUTY OF YOURSELF'). It reads: 'IF YOU'RE NOT FOR BARACK OBAMA, GET OFF MY BACK!'. Well, maybe not the most clever or punchy slogan, but the display case was filled with white Ts - different shapes and sizes, but one message of HOPE around Moshood's candidate Barack Obama. I thought “How cool!” And secured a bunch for friends who would enjoy an Obama-inspired Moshood T-Shirt. While in Brooklyn, we stumbled into one of my best friends in the business Frankie Edozien ( www.edozien.net) who is City Hall Reporter at New York Post, but also Founder of the “African” Magazine

(www.africanmag.com). Being out with me means I run into folks and they lead us to our next stop. In this case, Frankie told us we just had to come to the Brooklyn Museum for its First Saturdays mixer – dancing, cocktails, and mingling ( www.brooklynmuseum.org/ ). We did, but got there a bit late. Still, we posed for pix.

• I’ve been seeing commercials for “Red Robin” ( www.redrobin.com/ ). Had never been to one. Ant knew of them from Denver. Well, we found one just 10 minutes away in Clifton, NJ. Ern, Ant, and I went the other night and enjoyed delicious gourmet burgers with baskets and baskets of what they call “bottomless fries”. Not a meal for everyday, but it was so good… in that moment. I’m sure we’ll find excuses to revisit that spot. As comfort food goes, we enjoyed – not for the first time – some “Cowgirl” in the West Village before I had to hop a plane for Chicago yesterday. ( www.cowgirlnyc.com ). Its corn dogs, catfish fingers, chili, and margaritas made this too a spot we shouldn’t do too often, but we must repeat soonest. Love that comfort food!!!!!! (And yes! I still have my 29 waist from high school! SMILE!).

RANDOM SHOUT OUTS AND POP MUSINGS:

• How many of you have seen these commercials from TRIGON Insurance ( www.trigoninsurance.com/ )! The cutest!!!!!:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJBngYsATbk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5DwIcnpBCA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a189xAYBRv8&NR=1

• The one-man show Thurgood, starring Laurence Fishburne as the late Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, will begin previews on Broadway April 12 at the Booth Theater, with an opening set for April 30. My friend Natalie Clarke who is Senior Director of Marketing and Client Services for Walker International Communications Group, Inc (www.walkercommunicationsgroup.com) sent me a deal to share with you. THREE EASY WAYS TO ORDER:

1. ONLINE. Click here, or visit www.broadwayoffers.com and enter code THWCEB8.

2. BY PHONE. Call 212-947-8844 and mention code THWCEB8.

3. IN PERSON. Beginning March 24, bring a print out of this offer to the Booth Theatre Box Office, 222 West 45th Street.

Performance schedule: Tues.-Sat. at 8; Wed. & Sat. at 2, Sun. at 3

• My good friend Caroline Brewer (www.carolinebrewer.net) – writer and renaissance woman her own – sent me some info on a friend of hers. I’ll share it with you here. The company is Tribal Ties, an ethnic brand of Italian-made silk ties, with designs inspired by cultural motifs found in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe. They also make scarves for women. The owner, Laurence Ligon, founded the company and has run it sucessfully for 14 years, while maintaining a full-time job. In fact, he says the company pretty much runs itself. However, he's ready to move on to another venture and wants to spread the word about his desire to sell TribalTies. He's based in California. And you can check out his collection on his site, www.tribalties.com . Any takers?

• NYC based Fashion Stylist Andre Austin and photographer Eric Hason & are pleased to have their work included in the current exhibition at London's Museum of Fashion and Textile: "Peacocks and Pinstripes - A Snapshot of Masculine Style". The exhibit is showing through May 31, 2008. For more information, please contact my friend Wilson Mathews, who too works with Whitney from “America’s Next Top Model” at mediamecca@hotmail.com or to view the exhibit please visit http://www.ftmlondon.org/exhibitions/detail/?ID=44.

• My friend Michael K. Watts sent me two things he wanted me to mention. His first recommendation went something like this: “If you have not tried these cookies, you MUST. They will make you slap yo’ sista and yo’ daddy! I say they're PERFECT for the blog!!!” Well, I don’t know if I need to go that far, Michael, but I trust you. It’s Insomnia Cookies (www.insomniacookies.com) which now has a retail location on 6^th Avenue and MacDouglal that compliments their ‘til-3am delivery. Cookies, brownies, and combo packs of the two are served up piping hot.

• Michael’s other suggestion: A mentee of his named Barion Grant who worked at MTV during the same time he was there is the producer of a powerful documentary coming on MSNBC this Friday “… MEETING DAVID WILSON”. “TODAY” correspondent Tiki Barber hosts the documentary which is the remarkable and inspiring story of a young man’s reconciliation with his ancestors’ history as slaves. A 90-minute LIVE Conversation about Race moderated by NBC News’ Brian Williams follows. The entire event streams live on MSNBC.COM. For more information, go to www.msnbc.com.

As I reflect on my life (20 years since high school, etc.) - chronicling and revealing itself alongside the world’s recognition of the 40 years that have passed since Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s April 4^th assassination, I’m reminded that time passes quickly here, doesn’t it? You heard that younger brother of late, great Gerald Levert, Sean, died recently. He too was in the group Levert (of “Casanova” fame) - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sean_Levert. Not that we were thinking about him or checking for him, but – for sure – not expecting him to die. Then, as celebrations go, my cousin Floyd just celebrated another birthday. Hopefully he is honing in on how quickly time does pass and how little time there is philosophically for all of us to waste. We should all stand in our purpose and possibilities sooner than later... if we can. Tomorrow is not promised. This sentiment as another huge loss weighs heavily on my family. In the paper it reads like this: Bishop S.C. "Daddy" Madison, who for 17 years guided the United House of Prayer for All People, an affluent African American denomination based in the District, died Saturday night at his home in Northwest Washington . He was 86. I’ve often shared that this is my family’s church and for my years in Savannah, Atlanta, and New York, my church: (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/8/30/time-passes-quickly-here.html) and (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/2/12/tasty-freeze-of-chicago.html). See this article from The Washington Post for a more comprehensive view of his life. ( http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/06/AR2008040602312.html?referrer=emailarticle ). I’m reminded that when I was a junior at Morehouse in 1991, my parents surprised me on the road in Norfolk, Virginia as the Morehouse College Glee Club was preparing to close out our two-week tour. The previous Bishop McCollough – only the 2^nd in a series of 3 leaders within the church – passed away that same week, but my mom and dad still stuck to their plan to come and surprise me. As the glee club – on a tour bus – pulled into our hotel parking lot, I was told that someone needed to see me up front. When I walked off the bus, it was my parents. I was so emotional and happy to see them. Knowing the news of the Bishop’s passing (They’d called that news into me while on the road – earlier on the tour), I was further shocked to see them as I figured mom (and maybe even dad) would be preoccupied with arrangements around services, etc. But she held her commitment to spend time with me and knew she’d get back home in time to honor McCollough with whom she traveled from church to church and under whom her father was a preacher (He also served under Bishop Grace, the founder). During one moment where I was given clearance to hang out with my parents for a couple of hours before rehearsal, we got to talking about “Dad” (as the Bishops are endearingly called). Mom began to speak in tongues while we shared. Of course, I’ve witnessed this in the church and many places, but in my “academic” circles, I found myself looking around to see if anyone witnessed this highly-spirited moment for her. Once she came down off her moment, I said to my mother “Look, sistah! Reel it in! I won’t hear the end of this if you break out and start shouting here in the hotel lobby!”. We all laughed and went about our visit. I choke up and smile as I tell this story. Clearly, I miss my mom. But also, I love and respect The United House of Prayer for All People – my church. And I’ve had moments – over the years – to be an audience with Daddy Madison and I love, admire, and am in awe of the many amazing things he’s done to keep the legacy of our church and its founders (many of whom include my extended family from both sides) alive. I’m also reminded of a song my mom used to sing (as originally recorded by The Mighty Clouds of Joy). The song is titled “Everybody Ought to Praise His Name”.

The lyrics read:
Verse 1:
Oh I woke up early this morning
my heart was beating right on time
I said Lord I truly thank you
For openin’ up these eyes of mine
Then I went over to my window
And while looking through the shade
Once again I had to tell him
Thank -You -Lord
For lettin’ me see another day
Verse 2:
Now the sun was brightly shining
The wind was blowin’ not too strong
In a treehouse just a few feet away
Little Robin sang his song
I don’t know what he was singing
Pretty soon he was on his way
Who can say he wasn’t being
Gra-ate ful
And saying thank you for another day
Chorus:
(Everybody ought to) Praise His name
(Be thankful and) Praise His name
(Everybody ought to) Praise His name
(Cause if the robin can say Thank You)
You can do it too

Now, the context in which I write this from my heart and for my blog is not a religious one per se. So, whomever you choose to praise, more power to you. But the line “… if a robin can say Thank You, you can do it too…” haunts me. It haunts me because I am looking back on a good life and breathing right now to more blessings than a million and am looking forward to abundance and a light so bright it blinds the eyes. What gratitude I am feeling inside of this emotional rollercoaster. What else is left to say but: THANK YOU!

I’ve got to take a minute to document my last week and change because it’s been non-stop and there’s more to come. Last Tuesday, my Ant graciously drove me 2 ½ hours from our home to Wallingford, CT for a shoot. In the wake of our long day and late wrap, we chose to quickly pop by Tuesday night’s SPLASH (www.splashbar.com) to have a nightcap and say Hi to our friends Dominic San Juan (SOON TO COME: www.DominicSanJuanonline.com or VOTE FOR HIM: http://lincoln.unbound.com or his MYSPACE: http://www.myspace.com/dominicsanjuan ) and ABC News employee/socialite/blogger extraordinaire Terry Wynn (http://texastigerofnewyork.blogspot.com) were in the house. Always a pleasure to see them.

The following morning, I had to be on the first flight to Chicago for an assignment that would hold me in the Windy City (Still Windy, too, though the first days of Spring). I got the chance to reconnect to many of my peeps. My Ki-Ki, some of her colleagues, and I made our own stir fry at Flat Top Grill (www.flattopgrill.com/) – my first time going. I had a great rice and vegetable dish with Korean BBQ sauce and wonderful flat top bread. Ki-Ki, by the way (Christened Jakki), wanted me to share with my blog readers that she has a FAB 2 BED/ 2 BATH! HARLEM APT that’s ready to rent for $2100-a-month. This 2 bed/2 bath unit is 1300 sq feet! Its located on the second floor of a beautiful brownstone on tree-lined street [West 154th Street (btwn St. Nicholas and Amsterdam) one block from the A C line!!!] This units features high ceilings, hard wood floors, a full size washer and dryer in the unit and tons of closet and storage place. The open kitchen is bar stool ready and features full sized appliances including a dishwasher. The living/dining room area has a large fireplace and 3 large windows that face the beautiful brownstones across the street. Both bedrooms are very spacious and will easily accommodate a queen size bed, large dresser and end tables. The master bedroom has a modern, full size bath and an L shaped wrap around balcony. Did I mention the full size WASHER DRYER in the unit? This apartment will not be around for long. Other Features: Floors - hardwood, LOTS of sunlight - excellent, nice kitchen, bathroom, storage space, GREAT closet space, Washer/dryer, AND Dishwasher. NO broker fee! Will do credit check and collect a security deposit to move in. Ready for IMMEDIATE move in! Call Greg Little at 212-722-9226 or 347-552-6395 (cell) to schedule a time to see the apartment.

Chicago Carl was back on the beat for this leg of my trip. And he and I jumped right in. He took me to see Poonie who cuts my hair from Westside Chicacgo’s Half Time Barber when I am there. It was great to see him again. Carl also stopped me by his former boss and current friend AJ to see his first class salon AJES: The Salon Inc. (www.ajessalon.com). As AJ just celebrated his birthday (the night – on my last trip – that I sat with Chicago Carl as he was recuperating from a horrible flu), I got to extend my B-DAY greetings to him. He’s such a great energy! On that night, Carl and I got the chance to see my best friend from Morehouse Eddie and one of my favorite starlets Ti-Ti at J. Alexander’s restaurant (www.jalexanders.com/). In lieu of my Houston’s, J. Alexander has become my place for consistent dining and comfort food. The next night, Ki-Ki had arranged an evening of dining for Carl and our other girlfriend Lesia. Ki-Ki canceled in the 11^th hour (due to a belly ache) and Chicago Carl was working overtime. With that, Lesia and I got our one-on-one time at Rockit Bar & Grill (www.rockitbarandgrill.com), which offered us some tasty popcorn shrimp and glazed BBQ salmon. The ambience left a bit to be desired (too loud, too crowded, too much). A hair late to join us for our meal, Chicago Carl came and picked me up and took me by Miss Jesse Dean’s hair salon where he currently works to see owner Jesse and my girl Arlene. Jesse decided she would join us later for some social time. Chicago Carl and I then went on to the Northside to enjoy some margaritas and cute waiters (for me) and food (for him as he hadn’t eaten yet) at Cesars (www.killermargaritas.com). Before we could enjoy our night at The Kit Kat Lounge - www.kitkatchicago.com (where Jesse and her girlfriend Veronica had committed to meet us), we had to pop through Starbucks (www.starbucks.com/) for some caffeine. Two Dallas-based students (a guy and a girl) – in town for a Spring Break Christian missionary trip – stopped by our table to say HI. I wondered – and asked them – if they were in “Boy’s Town” to deliver us from “evil”, they – non-judgmentally – said “No!” They say they were drawn to our warm energy and just wanted to chat. We talked to them about their studies and their work in Chicago – including serving the homeless at soup kitchens. Additionally, they asked us for life and career advice. I gifted them with a copy of a new-age tome (my favorite genre of literature) that Ant and I are reading right now (as well as the rest of the world) – ensuring that the words would not compromise their walk with Christ. In fact, I assured they would help to strengthen that bond and have it show up that much more brilliantly in their life and the world. With anticipated snowfall (and our delay due to our modern-day tent revival with the Dallas students), we got to Kit Kat Lounge too late to enjoy the show, which normally showcases a fierce female impersonator – tonight’s bill was headlined by Traci Ross who does an array of divas including Janet Jackson’s “Feedback”, but we missed it all. Still, “she” sat down and talked to all of us through the night and posed for pix. She was so pleasant and is very talented. Check out The Kit Kat Lounge website to learn more: www.kitkatchicago.com about when she’s on. On the heels of my work day Friday, it appeared that I might be stuck in Chi-town (due to snow) vs. being able to get to Vegas for another assignment. If I had been, I would have gotten to join Chicago Carl, Ki-Ki, Vince, and Ki-Ki’s good girlfriend Kim Coles (one of my favorite comic actresses who had just said goodbye to Chicago and the nation’s airwaves via I-Village, the recently canceled show she hosted for NBC via Chi-town - www.ivillage.com/) for the opening night of “Tyler Perry’s Meet The Browns” (www.meetthebrownsfilm.com/). I’m sure they had a blast, though a text from my nephew that it wasn’t his favorite of the Tyler Perry films gave me a gauge that it’s no “Why Did I Get Married?”, but when I do see it, I’m sure I’ll stumble into a giggle here and there (and perhaps a tear when the choir comes out at the end. I’m a sucker for a crescendo-ing, Gospel-tinged finale – not matter how cliché!!! SMILE!).

But Vegas was destined to be. The flight did get out of Chicago’s Midway, albeit a hair delayed. As soon as I walked into baggage claim, I saw a small crowd of tourists – excited to see somebody. At closer inspection, it was Mike Tyson. I waited for the drama to subside and I segued in to get my photo op. I introduced myself to him, sat right down next to him as one of the enthusiastic fans took our pic. He smelled so good. I mean, I was sniffing and sniffing, he smelled so good. He was quite even and centered (or perhaps medicated). But hands down, he was pleasant and it was quite a WELCOME TO LAS VEGAS. I had to get myself together around preps for the shoot, but once I did that, I got to enjoy my hotel The Venetian (www.venetian.com) where I’ve stayed before. With that, came a gondola ride, a little shopping – including a roll by Michael Jackson’s spot (from the 20/20 special: “I want one of those. I want one of those. I want one of those…That’s nice!”) Regis Galerie (www.regisgalerie.com/), an antique store that I’m sure attracts a whole, new pop client since he stepped foot via the lens of that special those years ago. Also, I went to Jack Gallery where they have the best pop art (www.s2art.com). In that moment (among many), I wished Ant was there with me as pop art is one of our favorite things to experience together. (Remember? Our great time in Vegas last August for The National Association of Black Journalists’ convention? - (www.nabj.org -
http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/8/13/audacity-of-hope-and-dreams-in-vegas.html). From there, I segued to The Palazzo (www.palazzolasvegas.com/) – new addition to The Venetian property (Miss Ross headlined the opening of this new, luxurious hotel a couple of months ago in January). I dined at the Palazzo’s Grand Lux Café (www.grandluxcafe.com/) before going back to my suite to get ready for work the following morning. All went well in Vegas (would have loved to stay a little while longer as Fergie – www.fergie.blackeyedpeas.com - was performing at the Mandalay Bay that night. Ant loves her!).

Well, home on the red eye. It’s Easter Sunday, a morning that produced many check-ins from my ‘original Amazing Grace’ Natalie, my ‘daily Amazing Grace’ Nichole, and another BFF from Morehouse Mike. I just thought they were making sure I made it back and wishing me a Happy Holiday. But at closer reflection, I realized they were all making sure memories of Easter Sunday 2005 weren’t keeping me down. That’s the day that Kodjoe died (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/10/25/love-is-in-the-air.html). Because the news of his passing came before I had a chance to experience the day as Easter, the holiday doesn’t always trigger me sad and mournful (That may too be because the date hasn’t come yet. It was March 27). But my friends just wanted to be sure as – truth be told – you never know with me as I am quite emotional and sensitive (I did have a good ol’ cry on the plane as I listened to my Jennifer Holliday’s gospel album from 1994 (“On & On” - www.myspace.com/thejenniferholliday\).

With that, I had a beautiful day with Anthony. We slept in and caught up with each other as – remember? – I had just landed from Las Vegas. Then, we accepted Ern’s invite to join he and our good girlfriend Danielle for an Easter Sunday Dinner at “Delta’s” (www.deltarestaurant.com) – celebrating the spirit of the south with fine Southern cuisine. THEY AIN’T NEVER LIE!!! (Slang for: “THEY ARE TELLING THE TRUTH!”). Everything was so good – from the fish and grits to the catfish fingers to the short ribs to the cocktails. You should recall Danielle from when I recommended her to my “superstar” girlfriend Mara Schiavocampo ((now a digital correspondent for NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams (www.nightly.msnbc.com)). Mara was doing a piece on interracial dating. Danielle has been dating a white guy Bernard for the last five years. They are in love!

(http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-US&brand=msnbc&vid=b679062f-6e5f-4c96-beef-d618daca0591) and (http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-US&brand=msnbc&vid=86f005d2-227d-49cc-8933-816360249d3b). Also, it was Danielle’s first time meeting Anthony. They got along splendidly. I also didn’t realize to what degree Danielle is “Six Degrees from many things Pop Culture”. The random flow of classic and contemporary pop and R&B played lightly in the air – giving the ambiance of being in New York City during the ‘90s at “The Shark Bar” or “B. Smith” (though we were in New Brunswick, New Jersey). At one point, Beyonce’s “Kissing You” came on (One of Ant’s and my favorites by Des’Ree from “Romeo & Juliet” - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXtiqJCzgHs). We found out that Des’Ree is her godsister. (Maybe we can get Danielle to find her for us when we need to book a wedding singer. That would be cool, right?). Then, we found out she is cousins removed and departed from songwriter Barry Eastmond – known for his hits for Anita Baker, Patti LaBelle, etc. (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/1/9/pat-on-a-hot-tin-roof.html). Afterwards, Danielle’s Bernard made us some wonderful martinis with Frangelica in it. We laughed, compared notes on all things TIVO and TV. Then, we went home.

At blog entry time, our week ends where it began – with Dominic San Juan – celebrating his Big 3-0. We weren’t able to attend his big party on Saturday night as Ant was working on an assignment in Jersey and I was flying over from Vegas. Dominic had a casual dinner on this day (which was the actual birthday) and we joined a good dozen to celebrate him over sushi, sake, and other modern Japanese cuisine, “Blue Ginger”. It was good! He pulled together a wonderful array of good energy and we all basked in it.

Of course, for all that I did do this week, I missed many things I would have attended were it not for the travel. Let me shout some of them out here:

1. My platonic boo Carl Nelson and Kamala Cesar (www.lotusmusicanddance.org) invited us out to a press conference to announce plans around his upcoming event “Drums Along The Hudson 2008” (www.drumsalongthehudson.org). I’ve blogged about it before. Please come on out! The Sixth Annual Drums Along the Hudson: A Native American Festival and Shad Fest will take place on Saturday May 3rd, 2008 in Northern Manhattan's Inwood Hill Park at 218th Street, 4 blocks West of Broadway, from 11am to 6pm, rain or shine. This event is open to the public and is sponsored in part by Lotus Music & Dance, JPMorgan Chase, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, Hudson River Foundation and WABC-TV
2. I too missed an event put on last week by friend and publicist/social activist/author Terrie Williams (www.terriewilliams.com). Her new book is "Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We're Not Hurting” (Scribner), a wake-up call to Black folks on depression. And on March 18, she hosted a “Day of Healing” in Harlem. My friend Michael attended and said it was really nice. For more information, go to: www.thestaystrongfoundation.org.
3. My friend Marlynn has been working on a collection of erotic stories for Men of Color. He read one of those stories at the "Reading for Filth" series at Rapture
   Cafe & Bar in the East Village (Manh)! Ant went to support on behalf of our household and says he had a great time. CONGRATS MARLYNN!!!
4. We got an invite to the release party for Diddy’s group Danity Kane (www.danitykane.com/) It was at ‘tenjune’ (www.tenjunenyc.com/) in the meatpacking district. Congrats girls! Congrats DIDDY!
5. My Chandra’s old boss Juanita Stephens (from their days Warner Brothers Music) called me. She’s still doing publicity (but in Atlanta) and Chandra recommended she call me regarding placement for a couple of her clients at the NABJ Convention this year in Chicago (www.nabj.org or www.unityjournalists.org/):

· Lalah Hathaway is back with a new album titled, "Self Portrait," due in stores on June 3 via the newly-revived Stax Records label (www.lalahhathaway.com/). The release is Lalah’s fourth solo project and brings her together once again with producer Rex Rideout, who served as the producer of the 2004 Grammy-nominated Luther Vandross tribute album, “Forever, For Always, For Luther.” Hathaway's track on the project, "Forever, For Always, For Love,” was the first No. 1 single of her career. The first single, “Let Go,” is a mid-tempo track written by Hathaway and co-produced with Rideout.

· To celebrate the 50^th Anniversary of The Impressions, the documentary “Movin’ OnUp: The Music and Message of Curtis Mayfield & The Impressions” is being released on DVD soon. The two-hour film tells the incredible story of one of R&B’s most important and iconic groups. Also included in the documentary are 22 complete, vintage performances from The Impressions and Curtis Mayfield’s solo career filmed between 1965 and 1973.

COMING UP: My friend Ken Roberson (choreographer extraordinaire) sits on the Board of Trustees for “Our Time” Theatre Company Board of Trustees (www.ourtimetheatre.org). This non-profit organization provides an artistic home for young people who stutter. Its 6^th annual benefit gala “Lean On Me” is coming up and it honors musical legend Bill Withers, who I ran into several months back at an event for artist Ernie Barnes (www.billwithers.com/).

Well, it’s on the newsstands!!! April’s 2008 issue of “ESSENCE” Magazine (www.essence.com/). On page 142, you’ll see – count them – an 8 picture, one-page layout featuring my Anthony modeling next to Miss Erykah Badu. The pix look great! And I am so PROUD of him – showing up!!! Check out the full layout and story here: http://www.okayplayer.com/erykahbadu/Essence2008/.

Meanwhile, it’s been a great journey for me as I navigate through this industry – aiming to stay afloat inside my independence as a personality, producer, and writer.

As the blessings go, the clients to which I have grown accustomed are still calling quite often and I’ve been working on some cool things. Stay tuned.

That game show I mentioned before called and taped recently. I am gagged to say anything more, but look out for that in May or June. After it airs, I plan to tell much about that experience. And I will let you know when it airs (once I know).

And in addition to my freelance contributions to those shows and companies for which you are familiar, I have signed on with independent filmmaker Sue May (www.bslsthedoc.com - in progress; www.myspace.com/bslsthedoc) as 'associate producer' to help her book a handful of high-profile women to be interviewed briefly (30-minutes-or-less) for her independent documentary 'Big Sister, Little Sister' (BSLS).

To tell you more about the film (the lion's share of which has been shot), BSLS highlights, documents, and profoundly reveals the rewarding and bittersweet experiences of three New York City high school girls (now college girls) as they anticipate, prepare, experience, and advance through three customary rites of passage: prom, graduation, and college - all of which represent the collective transition from adolescence into adulthood.

The objective of the film is to investigate and reveal the struggles, accomplishments, disappointments, dreams, fears, relationships, and goals of three adolescent females of color, all in the top 5% of their high school's graduating class, from very different socioeconomic backgrounds and cultures, as we observe their strengths and weaknesses in balancing school, work, and peer/social issues. To learn more about BSLS Director Sue May, check out: www.triplegoddessgallery.com.

If you’d like more information on this special project of which I’m proud to be a part, please don’t hesitate to reach out as there are also tax-deductible, fundraising possibilities that I can tell you about as well. I am reachable at priley@bslsthedoc.com.

It seems that all of our work is tying in to our social time as well. Ant and I thought we would have seen “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” by now, for example (It opened last week). This, because I first wrote about this explosive new production of TENNESSE WILLIAMS' Pulitzer Prize-winning classic a few months ago - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/1/9/pat-on-a-hot-tin-roof.html. You’ll recall, it features a dynamite cast led by Academy Award nominee TERRENCE HOWARD, Tony Award winners PHYLICIA RASHAD and ANIKA NONI ROSE, and Academy Award nominee and two-time Tony winner JAMES EARL JONES. Renowned director and choreographer DEBBIE ALLEN directs. In addition to knowing one of the key group sales agents, MY Marcia Pendelton (www.blacktheateronline.com), I had the opportunity to introduce one of the opening night liquor sponsors/recent client Remy Martin (www.remy.com/) to the producers at “Cat”. (Remember the David LaChappelle project?). Well, it didn’t quite produce a red-carpet rollout for Ant and me. Still, we’ve not seen “Cat” but trust that we’ll have the opportunity to check this well-received production out before all is said and done.

Meanwhile, theater has not evaded us this past week. I got the chance to meet another of Ant’s high school BFFs “Brina” who now lives in Atlanta , but hails from Denver. Like Marcia, she has done audience development for “7 Stages” Theater in Atlanta (www.7stages.org), but is now moving into her own WHAT’S NEXT that was punctuated by her trip to New York City . Not only did she bring her sunny disposition (I JUST LOVE THIS WOMAN!!!), but she introduced to me and re-introduced to Ant some more Colorado folks – including Drea and Sahar. This, on the heels of Ant's two best girlfriends Sabrina and Manivone coming to town. We didn't get any new pix with Sabrina, but see her here on the night I first met Ant (and her) at "The Color Purple" after party. We got new shots with Manivone who joined us for eating and karaoke. See them duet on Madonna's "Borderline". Most excitedly, Brina invited us to see a show she was in town to support at Here Arts Center ’s (www.here.org) off-site venue 3LD Art & Technology Center (www.3ldnyc.org). “(RUS)H” is the name of the show, described as “…an intimate, psychosexual mystery of one man, his wife, and another – each yearning to feel something they can’t feel anymore – drawn together towards a final fall. Piece together a fragmented memory trail that reveals an underworld of extreme pleasure ,set to throbbing Latin beats…” It was a visual, electronic “orgasm”, said Brina as we watched text and video (designed by James Scruggs) play itself out on big screens and smalls screens – all as part of the process. It runs through March 22. Use code RUSHOUT and save $3 by calling 212/352-3101 or www.here.org.

The night before “(RUS)H”, the day Ant introduced me to Brina, we took her on our classic Harlem tour. From our favorite boutique “N” (www.nharlemnewyork.com/) to our neighborhood bistro “Native”, we – along with Brina’s friend Drea – enjoyed good shopping and food. From there, we all attended “ESPN” Magazine’s 10^th anniversary party ( www.ESPNMagazine.com ). As you know, I know many at the mag. My good girlfriend Crystal Howard who is the Director of Public Relations there hooked us up. “Terminal 5” was the locale with the most (www.terminal5nyc.com/). “Third Eye Blind” provided the LIVE entertainment (www.3eb.com/). And they were good. But we were more entertained by what was happening within the party. We ran into our “ America ’s Next Top Model” girls from Cycle 8 (www.cwtv.com/shows/americas-next-top-model). There was Whitney who I see from time to time on the social scene here in NYC. And another of my fellow social butterflies Jaslene, too, was in the mix. (We were last together at Kimora Lee Simmons’ post-fashion-show set - www.kimoraleesimmons.com/). And Brina - who noted that along with her mom "Boots" - LOVES "America's Next Top Model" and LIVES for Jaslene - was so glad to get her photo op with Jaslene. We were happy to oblige. I also got to see ESPN Magazine Publisher Keith Clinkscales who I've known over the years as far back as his days heading up VIBE Magazine and its many - at the time - properties.  And most excitedly, I got to check in with my fellow NABJ (www.nabj.org) buddy - who too is a member of our LGBT Task Force - LZ Granderson who writes for ESPN Magazine. Sadly, he was a target of homophobia - a harsh reality that hate and ignorance are alive and well. He blogged about it: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=granderson/080218. On this night, he seemed in great spirits and it was good to give him a hug of encouragement.  After that, we took the girls to our karaoke spot. And of course, we did what we do. What else is there to say? (www.karaoke17.com/). And may I say: "Brina can Blow!!!" Ant used to write songs for her in Denver back in the day. Perhaps they will find their way back to each other creatively. Such talent! After “(RUS)H”, we joined James Scruggs, the director Kristin Marting, Brina, her friends Sahar and Drea, and many others at Trinity Place Bar & Restaurant (www.trinityplacenyc.com). We partook of some really great bar bites i.e. mini-lobster BLT sandwiches, KOBE pigs-in-a-blanket, and mini-KOBE burgers. Afterwards, we did a midnight cap at BBQ (www.bbqnyc.com).

Now, if we’re highly-recommending “(RUS)H” and we are, please know that we need you to RUSH and see “Passing Strange” (www.passingstrangeonbroadway.com). Miss Ross actually went to see it a week or so ago with her oldest daughter Rhonda. I’d already heard about the critically-acclaimed musical, but knew I was on to something if Miss Ross was in the house. It’s been open just a couple of weeks and is now my mission to ensure that you all take trips to see this brilliant piece that Ant and I now consider our 'new favorite'. Eisa Davis, who plays the 'mother' in the piece, is daughter of revolutionary feminist Angela Davis. Her album "Something Else" is available online and in Japan (www.myspace.com/eisadavis). You know, given the Theater connoisseurs that we are, we have been looking for something that stimulates us as much as “The Color Purple” did (given it was the night we met) to “RENT” (Ant’s favorite) to “DREAMGIRLS” (my favorite). Well, we’ve got a new one that we are anxious to see again and again and again. And with this, our Marcia Pendelton is offering a 40%-OFF Regular Ticket Prices to FRIENDS OF PATRICK AND ANT. See the details with special CODE:

All performances except Fri & Sat eves & Wed Mat
Orch/$59.50; Mezz/$48; Balc/$21.50
Fri & Sat Eves
Orch/$68.50; Mezz/$58; Balc/$30
Wed Mat
Orch & Mezz/$48; Balc/$21.50

There Are Three Easy Ways To Purchase Tickets
Online: www.broadwayoffers.com and type in code PSWALK7

Phone: 212.947.8844 and mention code PSWALK7
In Person: Present this email at the Belasco Theater Box Office,
111 West 44th Street, NYC

Then, you – like us - can experience a score that has some of the most soulful rock songs, and witty, thought-provoking lyrics in recent memory. It is truly moving and hilarious – all at once. Again, it traces the journey of a young, black man in all of his bohemian splendor (by way of South-Central LA) and traces his exploration from his middle-class confines in Los Angeles to his church-reared youth in South-Central LA to a journey abroad that is all about his search for “the real”.

The autobiographical-meets-fantasy piece is led and narrated by Stew, singer/songwriter/founder/leaders of “The Negro Problem”, a pop-rock combo from Los Angeles (www.negroproblem.com/). He reflects on his life which comes alive via a brilliant cast of characters who are his friends and family from through the years. In his journey, he’s addressed racial issues, religious challenges, international travel, sudden death, depression, drugs, and a host of other relatable experiences that I related to – for my own reasons. While sitting hand-in-hand with Ant next to me, I knew he was touched by the piece for his own reasons. And to our right, our good friends Earl Nicholson and Valente Frazier – two of Tyra’s glam-squad guys www.tyrashow.warnerbros.com/), I knew they too were touched.  Earl, by the way, is Chicago Carl's good friend Vince's partner. I got to see Vince on my last trip to Chicago. Afterwards, Valente left before I thought to take a picture (but see him here next to me - Earl's in this pic too - at one of our recent outings in NYC. He's so cute.). But we stumbled back into Earl to be able to fold him into some of our post-show pix with each other and the cast. They were all so humble and gracious. Remember when I kept talking about “DREAMGIRLS” – THE MOVIE? I have an inkling I will continue to sing the praises of “PASSING STRANGE” as Ant and I began to immediately think with whom we want to share this amazing production.

Afterwards Ant and I enjoyed a post-show meal at The Brooklyn Diner (www.brooklyndiner.com) – one example of many of the nice moments we’ve been able to share together this past week.

The other night, we enjoyed premium sake from New York City ’s first sake shop (www.sakanyanyc.com) at Milk Gallery (www.milkstudios.com) which featured a wonderful exhibit with Buddhist icons. From the penthouse of the facility, we enjoyed sake and the beautiful view of New York City .

We did get some more Valenti time last night as he joined Ant and me at "Chapel of Sacred Mirrors" (www.cosm.org). You'll recall, Ant was there for the Erykah Badu listening party (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/2/22/cup-runneth-over.html). Well, last night, it was "Entheocentric Salon" including a discussion with owners Alex and Allyson Grey's "Chaos Order and Secret Writing", a live musical performance by Club D'elf, DJs, VJs, and live painting by Alex and Allyson Grey. Among other suite performers, Sitar player Dawoud also entertained the troops (www.renegadesufi.com or www.myspace.com/renegadesufi).

I also took a cool dinner meeting with my good girlfriend Najwa (celebrity/social/fashion blogger with the most). Find her here: www.myspace.com/styleaholics or here:

www.styleaholics.com/. She called the meeting and it was a funky good time of connecting and coming together. Our backdrop was Downtown’s The Cub Room (www.cubroom.com) – quaint and perfect for a lively, but contained-enough, meeting at which you can be spirited but hear. Always good to see you, Najwa!

Two shout outs:

Please help me help my boy Dommie win this online video contest!
DOMINIC * SAN JUAN entered an online contest sponsored by Lincoln Automobiles. Grand Prize Winner gets to open for Common, as well as a shitload of exposure. I could REALLY use your help! Every single vote counts! It will only take no more than TWO minutes of your time and does NOT cost you anything.
I will make this as easy as possible for you...
CLICK ON THE BANNER AND SIGN UP. THEN GIVE DOM YOUR VOTE BY RATING HIS VIDEO 5 STARS (www.lincolnlounge.com).

My boy Quincy, whose gallery I’ve written about before (www.galleryqb.com/) is featured in this week’s edition of New York Magazine (www.nymag.com/) or (http://nymag.com/bestofny/services/2008/justopened/) for its highly coveted “Best of New York” issue. Selected by the magazine as New York 's best new mid-century furniture shop, he is so excited to receive such an honor (and we for him!!!). Additionally, “galleryqb” is also gracing the pages of Time Out New York (www.timeout.com/newyork/) or (http://www.timeout.com/newyork/articles/shopping/27018/rummaging-with) this week - highlighting some of New York 's hot shops. And finally, “galleryqb” will be featured in the upcoming issue of the Japanese men's magazine “Pen”. What makes all of this publicity great is that none if it was solicited. Instead, the shop is gaining attention through its customers' love of the shop. And let’s not forget that “A Day in the Life of Riley” was here with you since the beginning! SMILE!.

As this BLOG entry rolls out on the day of my namesake St. Patrick, I am excited to see winter move into Spring. Some might argue that I’m not a saint and – of course – I’ve sinned. But I feel something moving towards something new, adventurous, and joyful. That is my intention, at least.

Well, everyone is a buzz about Miss Janet Jackson (www.janetjackson.com/) whose new album “Discipline” hit the streets this past Tuesday. From MTV and her cute spoofs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukucdCl7vQM) to showing Larry King the “Feedback” dance on “Larry King LIVE!” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8Zgc-TFOT8), she’s been making waves. Ant and I even chose to be a part of the festivities. As I mentioned last week, we secured VIP tix to see her “Good Morning America” concert (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bnmc8tcJawA), etc. Ant and I still had to wait in line, but had fun with it as a street promotions team made sure we continued to be amused at the event (before we realized we were violating our rule of not waiting in lines. Then, of course, those “rules” are all EGO, but I won’t go there just yet as Ant and I are learning more and more about our selves through our latest literary inspiration). Once we got in, we were seated and got to truly enjoy Miss Jackson unveil her live performance tracks and choreography on “Feedback” and “Rock With U”… and the throwback “That’s The Way Love Goes” (one of our favorites). It was a great morning and worth the trip. Oh yeah! Ant and I got a kick out of some more Janet/Diana synergy as some respective fans feel Janet’s VIBE Magazine cover (www.vibe.com/) conjures images of Diana’s cover shot from her memoir “Secrets of a Sparrow”.

Afterwards, Ant and I had a plentiful breakfast at the new “Brooklyn Diner” (in Times Square) - www.brooklyndiner.com/contact.htm , we took in a couple of matinees “Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins” ( www.welcomehomeroscoejenkins.com/ ) and “Cloverfield” ( www.cloverfieldmovie.com/ ) – good afternoon nap fare. Then, we came home and enjoyed our new “Discipline” CD. Plus, I had some homework – to watch “American Idol” (The guys) as I needed to be prepared for my debut on friend Z100 Shelley Wade’s chat fest the following day. It was at Janet’s listening party a few weeks back when Shelley invited me to sit in on this weekly roundtable during which we talk all things "American Idol". (this season). Please take a listen:
http://z100.com/cc-common/common-nyc/podcast/single_page.html?podcast=americanidol6chats With her colleague Jonathan Gallagher in tow, we had a hoot of a good time. THANKS SHELLEY and JONATHAN! I look forward to sitting in again really soon! (And Janet also references Diana in her Shelley Wade interview, after Shelley asks Janet to weigh-in on “QUEEN”-gate from the Grammys with Beyonce, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin. You can check that out via the Z100 – www.z100.com - site as well).

On Thursday, Ant and I got to support our buddy Diaz, who did some publicity and provided some accessories for a non-profit event that benefits BUILD (Building Up Individual Lifelong Dreams) - www.build-nyc.com. “Community Hues” was organized in celebration of Black History Month. It featured an awards reception, dance performance, and a fashion show. The 2008 Honorees are Jeffrey Gurian (Entertainer and Comedy Writer), Mary Jaeger (Fashion Designer), Norman Messiah (Artist), Edward Morgan (The MorganScott Ballet) and featured collaborator Dorian Webb (Jewelry Designer); Danny Simmons (Artist and Philanthropist) and Way Zen (Fashion Designer). And our usual suspects – from Mario to Kareem and many others were in the house. Always nice to support our folks doing positive things. Thanks Diaz!

Did you see the Oscars ( www.oscars.org/ )? Not many did. Though there are so few African Americans (in the grand scheme) to remember, the producers managed to exclude four-time host Whoopi Goldberg from a retrospective reel (80 years) that

featured its many less-hued hosts many times. Seen in the segment that showed supporting actress winners, Whoopi carries a distinction as the first sole African American host of the much-celebrated, annual broadcast. My Diana – however (also a nominee for “Best Actress” for “Lady Sings The Blues” - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ls2g1ec_qyU - carries the distinction as the first African American host of the event (but in a multi-host format). She too has performed on the show many times (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMHel_AUbpE), but all of those impressions were also left out.

Poised for her own Oscar success (in the wake of her dual Grammy nods), our girlfriend Ledisi ( www.ledisi.com/ ) apparently brought down the house at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon in Los Angeles‏ with her stirring performance of the Beatles’ classic “Yesterday” (Gets me everytime!!!! - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxoZr_PuFps). Accompanied on piano by music producer/composer Rex Rideout, she received a standing ovation and was considered one of the many highlights as the Black Hollywood film community was out in force for one of Oscar week’s hottest invites in support of honorees actress/musician Jada Pinkett Smith (accompanied by her husband superstar Will Smith), legendary actress Ms. Ruby Dee, director/producer extraordinaire Suzanne DePasse, and rising young actress Jurnee Smollett. Also in attendance - Quincy Jones, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, Kerry Washington, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Paula Patton, Pauletta Washington, Holly Robinson Peete, Raven-Symone, Gabrielle Union, Lynn Whitfield, Nia Long, Tracey Edmonds, Taraji Henson, LisaRaye, Tracee Ellis Ross, Vivica A. Fox, Sharon Leal, Salli Richardson and so many more! Next up for Ms. Ledisi – her first film role where she portrays a jazz singer (of course!) in the upcoming George Clooney movie - LEATHERHEADS which also stars Renee Zellweger – in theaters on April 4^th.

A recent dispatch to the windy city of Chicago has me longing for something warm – like Los Angeles (when not longing to simply be back home (where it’s not much warmer)). Moreover, on this leg of my Chi-town visit, my social ambassador Chicago Carl is nursing a bad bout of the flu (so we didn’t hit the beat this go around). Still, I got to spend lots of quality time with him as he relaxed and got the care that he needs to get back into the mix. Still, I got some catch-up time with Eddie, my best friend from Morehouse, who I didn’t get to see on my last trip. He took me to see Chicago Carl. Then, we enjoyed wings and fries at “Hooters” (www.hooters.com). Prior to our visit, we went to “Plush” (www.plushinchicago.com) as Eddie wanted me to meet a new friend of his. There - as in places I don’t even live – I ran into some folks I know (which always amuses Eddie as this is his home turf). It was my good girlfriend Jala with whom I’ve served on the National Association of Black Journalists [www.nabj.org] Board (years ago). In this pic (on the right), she's seen with her pal Shaniqua, a DC-based anchor. But on this night in Chicago, she was hanging with another good girlfriend (who it turns out went to Whitney Young High School with Eddie, though I’m not sure they knew each other) Tonya Francisco, anchor at CLTV (www.cltv.com). We enjoyed a cocktail with the ladies and caught up. Get well soon, Chicago Carl… and Always good to see you (but mostly when it’s not so COLD), Chicago!!!

My other Carl (formerly known as ‘platonic boo’) Carl Nelson is working on a project I want to make sure I shout out now – in ADVANCE – and later when it happens. It’s Drums Along The Hudson ( www.drumsalongthehudson.org). I went last year (and have gone over the years) and it’s a wonderful outdoor festival that promotes culture, eco- friendliness, and fellowship. Check the site out… and make sure to put it on your calendar.

You’ll recall, I met a performer Malachi at the Janet Jackson party the other week (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/2/12/luv.html). Well, as promised, I have more information on his work. Known as “The Hip Hop Poet”, he has been chosen as one of the top 25 spoken word artists in the nation, according to FAMECAST. He has also been chosen to represent New York City in the competition. And you can vote for him in that regard by clicking on: WWW.FAMECAST.COM/MALACHIRIVERS
Additionally, “The Communication Specialist”, his hip hop album is coming soon! It’s produced by Daniel Jose Older and there’s a collabo with a Grammy-award-winning hip hop pioneer! For more information on that, check out Malachi Rivers on MYSPACE at http://www.myspace.com/MALACHIWORLD. And get ready for the evolution of Malachi as “The Hip Hop Page” too will make its premiere next month.

Once the “fledgling” literary agent (an inside joke between friends), my dear friend Wanda Akin, who truly is and has always been a seasoned player in legal and literary circles the world over, just represented a book that has been reviewed in “The Los Angeles Times” (http://www.latimes.com/features/books/la-bk-randall24feb24,0,4142690.story). It’s “Gentleman Jigger”, a belatedly published roman a clef about the Jazz Age and the Harlem Renaissance by Richard Bruce Nugent. You must pick it up and CELEBRATE one of the most stylized and substantive times in American history. CONGRATS WANDA! LOVE YOU!

In closing, CHECK THIS OUT! My good friend/artist & brand manager Jelani Bandele – says she was sorting through some photographs for a presentation and came across this gem. We have no idea where we were (surely somewhere in Manhattan or Brooklyn), but it shows we've know each other for a very long time (LOOK AT MY HAIR! But that black is not cracking... still!)......and yes that is Diddy in the background. “I’ve been so many places in my life and time…”