WELCOME to "The Life of Riley" which will include periodic chronicles of pop culture and possibilities that flow out of Patrick L. Riley's day. That's me!!! Through blogging (and soon some other technological features on which I'll keep you posted as they launch), I will pull experiences from my busy life to entertain and inspire all of you. Through this site, I will share my observations and insights. Some features to look forward to:
1.) "PATRICK'S POP UP(DATES)" will feature stories from pop culture, music, theater, fashion, and the entertainment industry at large.
2.) "The Life of Riley" will also introduce a "take-a-look-at-your-life" section (READ: sort of an advice column), where I will help readers come up with their own questions and answers around what "ways of being" are working (or not working) to have them acheive their respective goals and live their best lives. This section is called "WHO YOU BE?".
3.) Additonally, there will be a free-flowing, organic section called "TESTIFY" from which I will pull from my own life's journey to share and hopefully inspire. Some of the fare may be new musings and experiences. Other times, I may pull from my journals and past sharings to shed light on some uncomfortable truths that I've experienced and that may perhaps play a role in healing someone else's wounds as the real-life experience did for me. From my experience of covering 9/11 as a freelance journalist to courageously coming out (as gay) to my family, "TESTIFY" promises to move those who choose to read it.
4.) And a section titled "PR" (like my initials, but also like "public relations") will include press clips from any coverage I get.
Entries in BET (22)
STAYING TOGETHER
THE GAME IS ON (AGAIN)
My first assignment for 2012 required I hit the ground running in L.A. for recurring client BET!
In addition to producing TONY ROCK on the red carpet at the new-season premiere party of "The Game" & "Let's Stay Together" (http://www.bet.com/video/thegame/season5/exclusives/red-carpet-premiere-the-game5-redcarpet-s1.html), I too interviewed the cast members and their Hollywood friends at the casino-style after party - excerpts from which will run on BET through the night the show premieres.
Both casts were so gracious. 
And I really enjoyed meeting some of the "Let's Stay Together" 'folks.
Don't forget to watch both hit shows Tuesday, January 10th at 10pm/eastern...and every Tuesday after that!
MEANWHILE, while in L.A., I got the chance to see one of LA's installments of FELA! (attended also by my industry buddy Tichina Arnold who discovered I was there during intermission...and what a FUN reunion that was as we normally see each other in NYC! ALWAYS GOOD TO SEE HER!).
Outside my temp digs for the week, The Hotel Roosevelt, I went on an errand down the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
While snapping my favorites, I stumbled into NABJ/AABJ (black journalist) mentor Vic Carter - in town on business.
Small world, huh? And though work kept me most occupied through most of my time in L.A., I did manage to see some friends - albeit too briefly:
Itika T. Oldwine; 
Derek Lafayette;
V Scott Hamilton; Stacey Antonio; Will Miller;
Jocelyn R Coleman;
Melora Rivera (who brought me my biggest surprise. I produced her mom, FOX 5 Atlanta anchor Amanda Davis in the mid-'90s on "Good Day Atlanta". 
After our newscast, I'd take Melora -- in 4th grade or less at the time - to school while her mom did teases for the NOON newscast which she also anchored. I'd take Melora to Chick-fil-a for a breakfast sandwich and drop her off to her school before I'd head back to either help write the NOON news or before I'd head home. Melora is now a WOMAN and working in Hollywood for my friend Salim Akil. CONGRATS, MELORA...and I'll be looking for your cameo in "Sparkle". MUCH LOVE TO YOU --- and your mom. HAPPY TO BE BACK IN TOUCH!); Zabrina Horton;
Loren Lillian;
TheQuan Lateef;
and a host of others that remind me I have some awesome friends who I consider family in L.A. not to mention my BFF (from high school) Maurice Marable who brought me on to do this gig for BET.
Was great to hang out with Mo and Mrs. Karen Good Marable, who - of course - is quite a joy.
Oh! One person I actually met for the first time and have adored from RuPaul's Drag Race (a recurring diva): Shangela Laquifa Wadley.
He will be featured on "Toddlers & Tiaras" - dropping the science of being fierce on the little ones. LOL! GO! THANKS L.A. & BET!
And special shout out to my friends Mara Brock-Akil and Salim Akil for creating "The Game" and continuing to take their Hollywood game to the next level: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/1/10/hope-theres-someone.html. Look for their "SPARKLE" remake in August of this year!
FRANK ISHMAN
I had to get back from L.A. on a red-eye that got me back to NYC Sunday morning because industry buddy Myrdith Leon-McCormack invited me to be shot by photographer extraordinaire Frank Ishman (www.frankishman.com).
Frank also happens to be my Morehouse brother. 
The shoot is a part of a collective campaign that features portraits and brief write-ups on each participant’s legacy. 
Today, Artist/Philanthropist Danny Simmons; WNBC’s Kym Hampton; 
film director Dominga Martin; and FFAWN philanthropist Latonya Blige were shot. 
Also in the house: Justiin Davis (HBO Boardwalk Empire): http://harlemworldblog.wordpress.com/2011/12/18/board-walk-empires-justiin-davis-volunteers-at-mission-society-in-harlem-video/. 
And a special shout out to THE GLAM SQUAD: Makeup-- Francesca B;
Hair---Moet Stewart;
Stylist--Janine Linton! 
GREAT JOB, LADIES! 
And GREAT WORK, FRANK ISHMAN! XO
HAPPY NEW YEAR'
On the eve of New Year’s Eve, some friends did inspire me to come out and play (amidst a week of partial-work & partial-relaxation). NYC friend Sharon Nelson and her family hosted a holiday gathering which allowed me to toast some near and dear for the season: Carl Nelson;
ABC 7 Anchor/Reporter Sandra Bookman (industry buddy from our Atlanta days); Gilda Squire; Marie Raxy; etc. 
Then, a pop down to Snack Dragon to hang with BFFs Jamar Dunn; Ryan T Hall; and Ryan’s cool-EST mom Donna. 
She proved herself a stellar vocalist as we found a little karaoke to get into, after enjoying delicious tacos and sangria.
Our hosts Cindy and John threw an awesome HAPPY NEW YEAR set! We had a BLAST! HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYBODY!
SAVANNAH, I LOVE YOU!
Christmas in my hometown of Savannah with family and friends!
GREAT TIMES! 
And a dose of Atlanta makes it all right for the holidays! XO Here are more pix: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150458807703737.367054.662073736&type=1&l=e0b1623d36 
P.S. R-I-P
You may recall that while I was in L.A. - post-producing "Monica", I got to see the L.A. premiere of the documentary Kodjoe was working on before he died. I found out while I was in L.A. -- as I was going to see FELA in L.A. at the Ahmanson Theater - right next door to where Claudia's film screened that September in 2009: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/8/31/i-can-do-good-all-by-myself-and-with-someone.html & http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/9/21/ive-waited-so-long-to-hear-you-say-that-to-me-say-it-again-s.html - we found out that Claudia passed away.
Her awarding-winning work as a producer with ABC, NBC and PBS has made her a recipient of numerous awards including 11 Emmys, a duPont and a Peabody. 
Here is a beautiful tribute written by David Guilbault, a former ABC executive producer, who worked with her on her important HIV/AIDS documentary "Why Us? Dying and Left Behind" (after Kodjoe passed away in March 2005: http://davidguilbault.typepad.com/such_is_life_by_david_gui/2012/01/a-loving-spirit.html). Claudia will be missed but her legacy lives on. 
THE LIFE OF RILEY
in BET, BRANDY, FELA, L.A., LET'S STAY TOGETHER, MONICA, PATRICK'S POP(UP)DATES/TESTIFY/PR, TICHINA ARNOLD, The Game
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GET INTO IT
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME
MY HEART IS SO FULL for having lived these 41 years. But to have an awesome man and the best friends and family ever show their LOVE in so many ways makes me feel TRULY LOVED! 
On the eve of my BDAY, with my college BFF Audrey in tow, I danced into my BDAY at the beautiful New Ro home of Angelique and James Francis.
And they were gracious to have some BDAY CAKE for my Scorpio mates and me.
On the BDAY itself, my girlfriend Sidra hosted a few friends and me at her Harlem pad for barbecue, drinks, and more BDAY CAKE.
For sure, we had a BLAST! 
On Sunday, I had to work (wrapping production on a sizzle reel for a client), and I stumbled into a SURPRISE BDAY PARTY that Ant had organized with 100 or so of my friends and family (at Bob Bar – WWW.BOBBARNYC.COM).
I was popping in for a quick drink and to connect with two of our friends, I was met with a BIG SURPRISE! I heard Miss Ross’ “I’m Coming Out” and planned to run into what I thought was a near-empty lounge. As I prepared to enter – singing “I’m Coming Out” (as if Miss Ross’ famous concert starter), the last laugh was on me as the room erupted in “SURPRISE!!!!”
MY AUDREY
My bonus BDAY gift was having my college BFF Audrey in town for business - all week long. And VOILA! We picked up where we left off. 
Our HISTORY and LOVE run deep (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/2/18/my-funny-and-diverse-valentine.html). 
We enjoyed a catch-up meal at SUSHI DAMO before sharing the microphone (when I chose to share it. LOL!) at Japas 55 karaoke. AUDREY & PATRICK back together. Can only mean trouble? Fun and benign though… LMAO!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUT to NYC buddy Andy Diaz who we got to toast recently at TRAFFIC. It is always good to see Diaz and our many mutual friends. 
And HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our friend, Elijah. We got to do a MONDAY NIGHT toast and taste with him in Mount Vernon. Also in the house: Cynthia Burgos; Nelson and Michelle Sanchez Boyce(and Mr. Ferro); Nichole Andrews Shellman; Angelique Francis; Chenoa Maxwell;Keith Kennerly; and many more! FUN NIGHT! HAPPY BDAY TO ALL OF THE SAGITARIUS & CAPRICORN BABIES OUT THERE!
BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE
Shout out to the journalism students at Bloomfield College in New Jersey. They ROCK! So does their professor Karyn Collins, my NABJ sister who invited me to speak to them about my career and tips for their step into our industry.
I trust that many from this impressive crop promise to be among our most esteemed media professionals. Another of their professors (and – like Karyn – a fellow freelance AND independent hustler in this industry) Nicole Franklin popped by on the end of my speech (She teaches these students as well).
It may be cliché, but I do “...believe the children are the future...” and what a bright and blinding one ahead for my new Bloomfield College friends.
KIM COLES
Nothing could stop me from spending some time with my girlfriend Kim Coles when she called to say she was in town and had a window in which she hoped I could join her for a little chat & chew.
She also asked me to bring Ant and our BFF Theo Perry along. We chose Vnyl on 9th Avenue between 51st and 52nd (Chicken Nachos and Margaritas, anyone?). From there: Sushi Damo. Then, a quick visit to the Shea Moisture pop-up store in Bryant Park (http://sheamoisture.com/).
THE LINKS, INCORPORATED
Went to DC recently for the 65th Anniversary GALA – celebrating The Links, Incorporated.
It was EXCITING to see the labor of my LOVE for the last few weeks on the big presentation screens at the event (Marriott Wardman Park).
I had a great time!
The well-appointed evening put me face-to-face with Sherri Blount Gray and the many Links with whom I had the chance to work via BET, media partner for the evening.
I produced the video/graphic elements for its evening - featuring friend Lynn Whitfield (and her beautiful voice on each piece I produced);
Will Downing (performing);
and hosts Tim Reid & his wife Daphne Reid! 
EBONY was honored and Linda Johnson-Rice was there to accept (along with John son Publishing CEO Desiree Rogers). CONGRATULATIONS ON 65 YEARS! XO
DC
Though time didn’t allow me to check out the MLK National Monument, I did get long-overdue catch-up with my chosen family/dearest friends Latecia Engram (BFFs since 7th grade);
my little brother (“nephew”, I call him) Brian Henderson;
and Lisa Goodnight, hubby Lex, and their little man Alejandro (HAPPY 1-YEAR BIRTHDAY, YOUNG MAN!).
I LOVE Y'ALL!
CUP
Shout out to James & Angelique Francis for inviting me to accompany my BFF/Amazing Grace Nichole Shellman to an event that was put on by the Council of Urban Professionals.
It was the 3rd Annual MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT FORUM.
The dinner program brought me face-to-face with a most impressive group of pros who – through CUP – connect, empower, and mobilize the next generation of diverse business and civic leaders. 
After a well-appointed meet-and-greet n the SoHi Room at the SOHO Trump Hotel, we gathered for dinner as we learned from and enjoyed industry leaders Keith Clinkscales;
Christina Norman;
Sivonne Davis; and Steve Stoute wax philosophical about the changing landscape of the entertainment business and what that means to the consumer. GREAT NETWORKING NIGHT!
OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN
Sans a few of my favorites - like "Heart Attack"; "Twist of Fate"; "Livin' In Desperate Times"; and "Take A Chance", MISS OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN turned out all of her greatest hits for us recently at Westbury Music Fair. 
In the legendary round, she brought great voice; 
her PHYSICAL beauty which has held up; and a historic repertoire that includes the UK-imported Country & Western the Aussie initially came to the States singing; 
her big soundtrack hits (from Xanadu to Grease);
her '80s blockbusters; and some of her more recent covers and new age tracks. She chatted the audience up between songs as if she was talking to her old friends. And her old friends - Ernest Maynor, Danielle Andrea Simone Knight, and I - were in the cut - hopelessly devoted to OUR OLIVIA! Ant enjoyed too.
HANNA LEE & CAMPARI
Tribeca’s Silver Lining, was the backdrop for a party that my friend Hanna Lee hosted recently.
She invited Ant and me to come by as it was our - GASP! - 6th Anniversary of being together.
In the house: Darryl "Mixologist" Robinson; my girlfriend and colleague Janet Lee whose book "Living in a Nutshell: Posh and Portable Decorating Ideas for Small Spaces" will be out in the Spring of 2012 (http://harpercollins.ca/books/Living-Nutshell-Janet-Lee/?isbn=9780062060693).
Janet is the best and throws an AWESOME cocktail set (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/15/butterflies-begin-from-having-been-another.html). 
One of those sets had me modeling in OUT magazine with one of her guests, Food Network host and Semi-homemade diva Miss Sandra Lee whose PR team includes my friend Audra Boltion (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/7/28/im-so-glad-we-had-this-time-together.html). 
NYABJ'S NEW DAY
After the Campari set, we stopped by the New York Association of Black Journalists' Pre-Election Mixer at The Park Restaurant.
My friend and fellow NABJ baby Mike Feeney was running for President (http://feeneyfornyabjpres.tumblr.com/) and we wanted to make sure he knows he has our support. GO MIKE or shall I say: MR. PRESIDENT! HE WON!
"STICK FLY"
My ATL friend Kenny Leon (who actually directed me at a CAU Coronation while I was at Morehouse) tapped me on my shoulder as I was walking into The Cort Theatre to see his latest Broadway impression "Stick Fly" - starring Tony-award-winning Ruben Santiago Hudson; Mekhi Phifer; Dule Hill; daughter of Phylicia Rashad, Condola; Tracie Thomas; and more. Alicia Keys is one of the producers. And I enjoyed it. Special nods to Ruben and Condola! POWERFUL PERFORMANCES! Please be sure to check it out!
WILSON CRUZ
At the end of a recent long edit (for The Wendy Williams Show) – a piece that will be seen in mid-December, I grabbed a quick bite at VNYL (chicken nachos). Sitting at the table next to me was a piece of pop culture “dessert”: Wilson Cruz, who I knew from his role on “Noah’s Arc”. He’s also played Angel in “Rent” on Broadway (1998) and earlier this year, we saw him in “Single Ladies” on VH1. And what a nice guy he was/is…
DANISH KRINGLE
After a long day of edit for client The Wendy Williams Show, I popped by Bamboo 52; Club Therapy; Industry; then Japas 55 Karaoke, where my nephew Herman Lee Riley III and his friend Phil popped by for some karaoke. 
The following morning, I awoke to a sweet Danish Kringle (www.ohdanishbakery.com/Kringles) that came via Fed Ex from my friend Marcie Eanes. 
She's my NABJ sister and a writer/poet ("Sensual Sounds" - http://www.amazon.com/Sensual-Sounds-collection-Marcie-Eanes/dp/1440192855) from Racine, Wisconsin where this delicious treat is among President Obama's favorite things. I know why. It's DELICIOUS! THANKS MARCIE!
THOROUGHLY MODERN PEOPLE
And our NYC BFF Sidra Smith is always hosting something FABULOUS in Harlem (and all around the world, for that matter). Nectar Wine Bar on 120th and Frederick Douglas Blvd was the back-drop for a recent book-signing she put together. The book? Chima Njoku-Latty's "Thoroughly Modern People: The Long Way Home" (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Thoroughly-Modern-People-Long-Home/dp/0956600107).
RED ROOSTER & ROSS
On this same night, we all gathered at "Red Rooster" for food & more toasts. 
In the house: Gordon Chambers (whose new album "SINCERE" is out and - like all of his material - FABULOUS (http://gordonchambers.com/). 
His gig last week had him on the same bill as Miss Ross at Reginald Van Lee's wedding last week in DC (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2a-vgZePSww&feature=related). COOL, right?
You'll recall my ROSS encounter a few weeks back in NYC: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/10/5/miss-ross-called-me.html. http://www.weddingwire.com/wedding-forums/wedding-of-the-year/2d426db42cd8d6d3.html CONGRATS to Mr. Reginald Van Lee and his now-husband Corey L. McCathern.
VH1 DIVAS
http://www.vh1.com/music/tuner/2011-12-19/vh1-divas-celebrates-soul-keep-me-hanging-on/?xrs=synd_google 
Did you see VH1 DIVAS 2011? A pair of tickets evaded me.
But I’ve touched shoulder pads with most of the line-up anyway: Mary J. Blige. Jennifer Hudson (who sang – among many tunes – “Night of Your Life”, the David Guetta on which she’s featured and on which my Morehouse brother and friend Anthony Welborn Preston co-wrote).
Jill Scott.
Chaka Khan.
Erykah Badu.
Ledisi. 
Estelle.
Marsha Ambrosius.
Martha Reeves. 
BVI
Last month, I got the chance to field produce Wendy Williams in the British Virgin Islands. Part 1: http://www.wendyshow.com/2011/10/24/british-virgin-islands/ 
Part 2: http://www.wendyshow.com/2011/10/26/british-virgin-islands-food/ 
Keeping the BDAY spirit going, I accepted an invitation from my friends at the BVI TOURIST BOARD to attend a NYC-based set at Tian at The Riverbank State Park here in NYC.
Sidra Smith accompanied me.
Ran into girlfriend Africa while there. And my BVI BFFs Lynette Harrigan and Kevis Hughes were in the house. Meanwhile, I have another piece I've produced for 'Wendy' - an integration marketing segment with "Family Dollar": http://www.wendyshow.com/2011/12/16/family-dollar-holiday-dash/. 
CASSIE FREEMAN
So many friends doing wonderful things! And I'm trying to patronize all of it - because I LOVE them AND I am 'pop culture & possibilities'. Cassie Freeman? 2011 Sundance Film Festival audience award-winning KINYARWANDA came to town. 
Cassie invited us out to see it. To watch the trailer go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=PeqaDYK8NbY I'll send folks to click this link - so they can view her CNN Interview http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/world/2011/11/26/new-rwandan-movie-out.cnn AND to FB to Like the film on www.Facebook.com/kinywarwandamovie AND to stay updated www.kinyarwandamovie.com & www.affrm.com AND to Follow it on twitter: kinyarwandamov.
NATIVE
Hi folks! You know I LOVE Nathan Hale Williams; Brian Washington-Palmer; and our once-home for ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT, NATIVE RESTAURANT (www.HarlemNativeNYC.com at 118th & Lenox.
Well, these FAB fellows have kicked off A NATIVE HOLIDAY CONCERT SERIES with a series of awesome performances – from the acoustic soul of the very talented RUSSELL TAYLOR; Canadian-bred vocals of Belinda Munro; and Charlie Vox. It's an intimate night of exceptional music, food and fun! $10. For Table Reservations, 212-665-2525.
BROOKLYN
The next day, we went to Skylight Gallery in Brooklyn (right across from one of my family church’s Brooklyn locations, The United House of Prayer for All People).
SUNDAY BRUNCH was inspired by our friend Theo Perry who coordinated an afternoon of great food at OLEA; then afternoon cocktails and wings at MO’s; 
then our friend Danny Simmons starred in a reading (with other presenters) from his new book of poetry “deep in your best reflection”.
The program took place inside the exhibition “HER WORD AS WITNESS: portraits of women writers of the African Diaspora” (Photography by Laylah Amatullah Barrayn who assembled a diverse group of women writers – many of whom I call my friends – including:
Tomika Anderson; Karen Good Marable; Dominga Martin; Kierna Mayo; Nekesa Moody;
Susan L. Taylor; Terrie Williams;Danyel Smith; and many more! Please be sure to check it out (www.restorationplaza.org).
NAPIERA GROVES
I first became acquainted with Napiera Groves via "As The World Turns" (She played daughter to my now-friend Tamara Tunie's character Jessica Griffin & nemesis to her TV mom's boo (for a minute as played by Lamman Rucker, Marshall Travers). 
Then, we met socially and hit it off. Then, she came and sang at my ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT late last year. Now, she has a new single on I-TUNES (and her music video has dropped: http://youtu.be/D9Dcbi-IIKo). Please check it out (and listen to those lyrics). Napiera Groves is a FORCE: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/force/id487948881?i=487948885. CONGRATS!!!
KENNY CARR
I want to make sure I tell you about something that one of my friends Kenneth Carr has done...in case you're a music lover and/or shopping around for stocking stuffers. He wrote, produced, and is featured on "The Seal Breakers" (which recorded in NJ at the studio home of THE LEGENDARY Tony Bennett). 
This anointed project is available on I-Tunes; CD Baby; and AMAZON. Kenny is my dear girlfriend Shareen King's boo (She is my co-hort on all things "Monica: Still Standing" & "Frankie & Neffe"). Kenny and I have grown close since that time...and I'm SO PROUD OF HIM! He's such a talent and - take my word - this project is one you will enjoy from start to finish! CONTINUED BLESSINGS, MY FRIEND! And I'll be sure to keep "...the life of Riley..." readers abreast of your GREAT WORK! PLEASE KEEP ME POSTED!
STANLEY BENNETT CLAY
Shout out to my friend Stanley Bennett Clay! We got the chance to see his play (which he wrote and in which he stars) "ARMSTRONG'S KID"! The premise? THE GAY SCHOOL TEACHER! THE FALSE ACCUSATION! THE FINAL SHOWDOWN!
According to award-winning actress Loretta Devine, "THIS SHOULD BE ON BROADWAY!" I AGREE! If you are in NYC, please don't miss it...and if you are not in NYC, look for it in a city near you (before it heads back to Broadway)! http://www.smarttix.com/show.aspx?showcode=ARM2
ED ROEBUCK
My dear friend Edward Roebuck produced a special concert this past Friday in NYC! “My Mother and Me,” starring mother-and-daughter team Melba Joyce and Carmen Bradford.
They wperformed for the first time in New York in Aaron Davis Hall on the campus of The City College of New York. http://www.prlog.org/11742633-mother-daughter-jazz-singers-melba-joyce-and-carmen-bradford-perform-in-ny-for-1st-time-together.html BRAVO, ED and ladies! XO
DAWN BAKER
GREAT GIFT IDEA for a young lady finding her way: "Dawn's Daughter", according to my Savannah homegirl Dawn Baker! http://www.dawnbakeronline.com/ HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
JC AUTOMOTIVE SPECIALIST
TO MY ATL PEEPS (et al), my Savannah homeboy Rick Barnes (pictured center) is doing his thing with this booming business that promises to service many of your automotive needs! GOOD DEALS & GREAT WORK!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/JC-Automotive-Specialist/227552287282288 And he's building new enterprises everyday - including a barber shop in the A-T-L, and I'm going to have to stop by and get my dome buzzed during the holidays.
WELCOME TO SWEETIE PIE
I'm glad "Welcome to Sweetie Pie" is a BIG HIT! We felt it would be when we had the chance to break bread with Tim Norman and his AWESOME mom MISS Robbie Montgomery in NYC before their season started. http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/11/10/put-me-to-the-test.html 
CONGRATS! <Now, I'm craving that peach cobbler! LOL!> NEW EPISODES are baking and will be WELL DONE by MARCH 2012! Our TIVO's Season Pass is SET! And CONGRATS to recurring client OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network!
THANKSGIVING
Speaking of tasty food and quality TV, we spent Thanksgiving at our girlfriend Mara Schiavocampo's Harlem home. 
She shares the beautiful space with her husband Tommie; and Sasha and Kirby - their two fur children. 
They are our favorite couple and we get to enjoy a lovely meal with their parents and a few other orphans who didn't go to the homes of their blood families. 
My nephew and his Morehouse buddy Phil joined us as well. WE ARE FAMILY!
We did an encore meal with Mara and Tommie (sans the parents this time) that Thanksgiving weekend - enjoying my favorite Houston's/Hillstone's.
Also on Thanksgiving, we did an after-set at the home of hostess-with-the-most Cy Lauz!!
Counting down to the annual holiday commute home.
(In my case, to Georgia: Atlanta and Savannah).
I hadn’t gotten my Christmas spirit on yet, but trust it to come. 
The other night, my girlfriend Tata’s tree-trimming started to thaw me out when I was surprised with my other BFF Chandra Jones and my little buddy Gavin, her son.
Also in the house: A host of our friends and family in common. 
GREAT WAY TO TOAST THE HOLIDAY!
JOB WELL DONE, REGIS!
http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/7/9/aint-no-mountain-high-enough.html 28 MINUTES WITH Regis Philbin IN 2008 viaMillion Dollar Password: WORTH $25K.
28 YEARS OF REGIS ON THE AIR (and ever the role model for me as a personality a la Live With Regis and Kelly ): PRICELESS! Watching his FAREWELL show! See one of our 2 moments together at 6:42 on this link: http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/PatrickGeneralReel.wmv. GREAT JOB, REGIS! And a PERSONAL THANKS from ME! <kleenex, please...>
THE LIFE OF RILEY
in BET, CHRISTMAS, DIANA ROSS, KIM COLES, OWN, PATRICK'S POP(UP)DATES/TESTIFY/PR, TV One, WELCOME TO SWEETIE PIE'S, undefined
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PUT ME TO THE TEST
It’s been busy y’all… but I’m blessed for it. Gonna crank out a quick entry for you as “…the life of Riley…” is moving at warp speed! LOL! Let’s go!
THE LINKS, INCORPORATED
CONGRATS to THE LINKS, INCORPORATED! I got the chance produce (via BET) all of the video and design elements that will be presented at the 65th Anniversary GALA of The Links. Ant and I are going. It’s this weekend.
Big THANKS to my BET fam and to Miss Lynn Whitfield who graciously allowed me to book her as the narrator of all the videos. SHE'S GREAT!
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
From recurring client in Chi-town to 'Anderson Cooper' to THE VIEW: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYcbwpTXbWU, the talk world (and often integrated marketing content) has - among other clientele - kept this freelancer afloat in 2011.
With that, shout out to “The Wendy Williams Show”.
The execs there brought me on board to field produce Wendy in the British Virgin Islands.
We had a BLAST! 
And there’s a big trip giveaway. 
You better go check it out right now: www.wendyshow.com.
Part 1: http://www.wendyshow.com/2011/10/24/british-virgin-islands/
Part 2: http://www.wendyshow.com/2011/10/26/british-virgin-islands-food/
SWEETIE PIE
As my old Chicago client uses me anew for some of her new fare, I also got an invitation to celebrate “Welcome to Sweetie Pies” which is my favorite new OWN show. 
In fact, I accepted my Spelman sister Tosha Whitten-Griggs' invite to STK Downtown in NYC’s Meatpacking district to meet Miss Robbie Montgomery and her son Tim Norman. 
Before Robbie opened their popular St. Louis soul food dynasty, she was once an Ikette (as in Tina Turner with whom she chanted. Remember Vanessa Bell Calloway in the bio-pic?). 
Among others, Mary Wilson & Cindy Birdsong lip sync’d sometimes to Robbie’s actual recording vocals. She sang behind Miss Ross’ lead vocal on “Someday We’ll Be Together”, their last #1 as Diana Ross & The Supremes. AWESOME MOTHER & SON!
DOUBLE 7
Afterwards, we ran into publicist friend Michelle Huff and her friends Kiki; Neil; and Chris.
They convinced us to join them at The Double 7 for some fun cocktails and rosemary fries. They served me a strawberry pepper fix with Bianco tequila, lemon, strawberries, black pepper...and a little chocolate. COOL SPOT! Michelle is the publicist for one of my favorite singers Tamia!
THURGOOD MARSHALL FOUNDATION
Shout out to Hallema Sharif and Sidra Smith for inviting me to The Thurgood Marshall College Fund's 24th Anniversary Dinner (www.tmcfund.org) at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers.
Many friends were in the house - including Nathan Hale Williams. Also: Melyssa Ford; 
Jamie Foster Brown; Rebecca Crews;
Blair Underwood; Russell Simmons; Cuba Gooding Jr.; my Morehouse brother Rockmond Dunbar; and Lamman Rucker (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/lamman-rucker). 
Ant and I got to see his Off-Broadway play "Black Angels over Tuskegee". GREAT SHOW that you should - for sure - check out. It's Broadway bound, too! 
This, as the New York Association of Black Journalists hosted a big Schomburg event in Harlem where companion to the upcoming “Red Tails” film, “Double Victory” was screened. And a few Tuskegee Airmen were in the house – interviewed by Ed Gordon. We first introduced this project to the National Association of Black Journalists in Philadelphia at our annual convention.
REED BETWEEN THE LINES
Speaking of NABJ: CONGRATS to Tracee Ellis Ross; Malcolm-Jamal Warner; & BET Networks on a strong debut with "REED BETWEEN THE LINES"! http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/bet-hip-hop-awards-ratings-247427 We had the chance to introduce the cast at NABJ in Philly back in August as well.
DANNY SIMMONS
I went to Rush Arts Gallery recently to toast artist/philanthropist Danny Simmons. 
Co-founder of Def Poetry Jam (along with brothers Russell and Joey [Rev. Run]), his book “Deep in Your Best Reflection: Poems” brought many out to celebrate. My girl Loren Lillian (now L.A. actress) performed. It’s a book of erotic poetry.
NECTAR
I was so excited to support my friends Ivonne & Matt’s special event at Nectar Wine Bar.
Nectar turned over the kitchen to Chef Joseph “JJ” Johnson. 
We experienced why he won Rocco’s Dinner Party with his flair at turning the ordinary into extraordinary.
We were delighted with four pairs of food & wine from Napa’s handcrafted Joseph Carr Winery. Chef Joseph “JJ” Johnson & Joseph Carr engaged guests with their insights on the autumnal menu of culinary delights. DJ Amanda Diva rocked the after party.
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE GLEE CLUB
Thanks to my CAU sister Audrey Irvine for assigning me my debut piece for CNN.com on Morehouse College Glee Club & King's LEGACY!
It published the weekend of the Martin Luther King monument unveiling. If you missed it, please check it out here: http://edition.cnn.com/2011/10/14/us/mlk-memorial-morehouse-glee-club/index.html.
THE CONTRACT
My friend Carl Nelson invited us to the reading for a play he’s poised to produce for Broadway or somewhere near. The National Black Theater tonight.
The amazing play is called "The Contract". It was written by James Webb (pictured here with Carl). His play won the 2010 Lorraine Hansberry Playwriting Award. LOOK OUT FOR IT! IT’S GOOD!
WEBSTAR PRESENTS
My Morehouse brother Kenyatta Lyles hipped me to a project on which he’s working. WebStar Presents provides a central location for talent, becoming the premier venue for talent scouts to find the stars of tomorrow. 
These global citizens will become the WebStar Presents family by creating memberships on our website. Members will be allowed to win cash prizes each week by uploading their videos for FREE! PLEASE CHECK IT OUT: www.webstarpresents.com. It’s the WHAT’S NEXT & WHAT’S NOW!
FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD
Shout out to my Morehouse brother Kobie Brown who is making things happen via his ground-breaking documentary "From Fatherless to Fatherhood": http://www.fromfatherlesstofatherhood.com/ecards/fundraiser/ 
It explores the importance of Fatherhood and will begin to screen in NYC and nationwide soon. For more information: http://youtu.be/5AUuE25hpyM
PROJECT SET
“…the life of Riley…” is always singing the praises of my Savannah homeboy Maurice Marable – literally and in the blogosphere (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/3/4/-weve-come-a-long-way-baby.html).
Non-profit media arts organization “Project SET” honored Mo.
Also honored: several other friends – including Erika Munro Kennerly (TRUTV).
And Rashad Robinson (COLOROFCHANGE.ORG).
And MTV icon Sway also got a nod. 
Each provided words of acceptance that moved not only the young people, but all of us.
TESTIMONY is POWER! 
The well-appointed evening (c/o Hershelle Burton’s Velvet Rope Ink event management) featured the fabulous DJ Illah (my BET buddy Keyon Williams). 
And Plum Photography’s Kelli Malcolm (project manager on my current BET project for The Links, Incorporated’s 65th Anniversary). And MANY of my favorites were in the house – from filmmaker Andre Wilkins to Mo’s wife Karen Good Marable to my favorite lady Bevy Smith to diva songstress KJ Rose and so many more – including my BET fam. As a mentor of many via the National Association of Black Journalists and Live Out Loud (LGBT-youth mentoring organization), I LOVE that Project SET is doing what it does (and EXCITED to have gotten an invitation to speak to the kids someday soon). CONGRATS TO ALL! www.projectset.org
ELEW
Go ELEW, GO! Shout out to my friend and his team (Nancy Hirsch) on his world take-over! The ROCKJAZZ pianist is conquering stage, screen, & stadium this month - including a tour he's been on with Josh Groban that wraps at the Garden here in NYC November 14th: Tickets available at: http://bit.ly/qSjqEb. FOLLOW ELEW ON TWITTER: @ELEWROCKJAZZ.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL ELEW HOMEPAGE AT www.ELEWROCKJAZZ.com. See his 'America's Got Talent' audition as reminder of his GENIUS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwnVgOJE3dk. He had to drop once Josh's invite to join him on tour came to be.
AMERICA’S GOT TALENT
I shared with you how a scout from NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” came up to me after I sang at a karaoke bar in NYC and scheduled an appointment for me to audition for the show (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2010/12/1/i-recall-the-scenes-that-never-die.html). 
Though the audition went well, I didn’t hear from them for what would have been last season. Well, read on. I didn't get the following email (from a senior casting director at "America's Got Talent") until I got back from the BVI... and it was too late (for now... at least). I was away when the call-back of sorts came: "Hi Patrick, You auditioned with us in New York last season with an amazing singing talent. We are holding auditions for season 7 in New York this weekend. I'd like you to meet us again. Can you audition today? I can set you up for an appointment so you don't have to wait in line. If so, let me know what time you can come in." Next time...
ALL STAR KARAOKE
As I continue to miss ALL-STAR KARAOKE (and am looking at ways to bring it back to you), shout out to my friend Brandon Bain who hosts LIVE BAND KARAOKE at Rock 'n Rose (formerly Top Tunes). 
After a long day of edit, I got the chance recently to pop by and do a few songs with the band. We ROCKED on Pat Benatar's "Love Is A Battlefield"!!!! GOOD TIMES! 
I'm missing karaoke. Have yet to firm up the return of ALL-STAR KARAOKE, but it's still on my list of TO-DOs!
CONSUMED
Always great to support friend (Ant’s BFF) Manivone Nonthaveth – THE ARTIST! Her exhibition CONSUMED is up and running at bOb bar (www.bobbarnyc.com).
All of Ant’s Denver peeps were in the house.
I got my BFF Carl Nelson and Luigi to pop by as well. We too celebrated my fellow Scorpio Manivone’s birthday. And she got the best BIRTHDAY gift of all: SHE SOLD OUT! CONGRATS, MANIVONE (www.elleFANTart.com)!
“SISTER ACT”
While our friend Ashley’s mom Rita and cousin Christine were in town, we got to take them to see Broadway’s “Sister Act”.
Whoopi has a hit on her hands (she's a producer). This spectacular co-stars our buddy Chester Gregory.
It was GREAT.
While out, we ran into La La (of “La La’s Full Court” fame).
She was with her son and our girlfriend Po Johnson who too is featured on the show.
PO
Just before Halloween, we went out for TRICK OR TREAT.
We got both! LOL! Actually, it was ALL TREAT: a LIVE musical performance by our friend PO JOHNSON who is a new, up-and-coming recording artist represented by our friend Michelle Sanchez-Boyce and Phillana Williams.
You can purchase her latest single "Super Kinda Psycho Sexy Love" on itunes at: http://itun.es/iBp3LG#iTunes. 
This was another James-Kinney-produced set (www.kinneygroupcreative.com), which also featured the song stylings of TESS (@TheNameIsTess).
The Stone Rose Lounge was the intimate backdrop – overlooking Central Park and Columbus Circle which sparkled as the residue of Saturday’s wintry mix met with the moonlight. 
Michelle, of course, brought many of our favorite New Ro’s & Mount Vernon’s into the mix – including my ‘Amazing Grace’ Nichole and artist Cynthia Burgos. And we invited our girlfriend Ashley to join in on the fun of seeing Po rock it out. Also in the house: singer extraordinaire KJ Rose; BRAVO's "Fashion Show" winner Jeffrey Williams; and Kevin "Moochie" Freeman ("Real Housewives of Atlanta"). 
Shout out to www.AE3Sixty.com
COLE
Speaking of FASHION check out my dear friend Cole McDonagh on the front page of www.barneys.com. 
As today's model's go, he is one to watch! CONGRATS, COLE!
SPARKLE
Nippy in "Sparkle" - collaborating with my friends Mara Brock Akil & Salim Akil!
GIVE US SOMETHING WE CAN FEEL, Y'ALL! XO I’m excited…and can’t wait to see WHITNEY HOUSTON return to the big screen in the remake of the 1976 film classic (www.whitneyhouston.com). 
The movie began principal photography a couple of weeks ago in Detroit, Michigan. It’s the story of the title character Sparkle (Jordin Sparks), the youngest of three sisters and a music prodigy who struggles to become a star.
WARRINGTON HUDLIN
I just ran into my buddy Warrington Hudlin recently. 
In addition to always shouting out and acknowledging how he reads my blog "A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities" (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/7/22/in-a-world-of-fading-treasures-love-is-the-greatest-pleasure.html), he invited me (and NOW YOU) to join him for the 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE NEW WAVE OF BLACK CINEMA! WOW! And we talked about more than his event on Saturday: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=172397769516886.
I told him I myself have been thinking of his AWESOME legacy in pop culture via my Spelman sister AJ Johnson’s “Life After” episode that ran on TV ONE this past week: http://tvoneonline.com/about-life-after/episodes/season-3/aj-johnson.
As a Morehouse Man, I knew her story…but what a LIFE CLASS she brought me. INSPIRING and TOUCHING testimonial of AMBITION, LOSS, & PURPOSE! Warrington and I then spoke of losing HEAVY D and how he and his brother Reginald produced/directed the first video for HEAVY D & THE BOYZ! ALL OF THIS IN MY LIFETIME…and the aforementioned: just today!
R.I.P.
HEAVY D - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMlULg8jKmc
RAY AGHAYAN - Oscar-nominated costume designer ("Lady Sings The Blues")/partner of Bob Mackie
SID MELTON - Miss Ross co-star in "Lady Sings The Blues"
ANDY ROONEY
JOE FRAZIER
STEVE JOBS
THE LIFE OF RILEY
in BET, British Virgin Islands, Heavy D, Lamman Rucker, PATRICK'S POP(UP)DATES/TESTIFY/PR, Reed Between The Lines, Steve Jobs, TRACEE ELLIS ROSS, WENDY WILLIAMS
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CRAZY STUPID LOVE
CRAZY, STUPID LOVE.
Shout out to Anna Fuson, Tagan Lee, and Raqiyah Mays for inviting us to pre-view screening (and "Fashion 40" pre-show mixer) of "Crazy Stupid Love" (starring Steve Carell ). It came out this past Friday and is poised to be a BIG HIT! While at the mixer, Flo Anthony introduced me to Victoria Giler - "the NEW Beyonce?" (Can't wait to hear!).
And friend Walter Greene is always doing something FAB in fashion. Great to see you, Walter, Diaz, Dominga, et al! www.facebook.com/crazystupidlove 
AS THE MOVIE... & ITS STELLAR CAST GOES: I fell in love w/the talent of Julianne Moore years ago on 'As The World Turns'; Marisa Tomei on 'Different World'; Emma Stone just weeks ago in 'The Help' (out soon). 
Well, they all had me HOWLING (& even crying a little) in the new romantic comedy "Crazy, Stupid LOVE." A MUST SEE...and according to "...the life of Riley...": HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
BASQUIAT
You all know that Ant is an artist.
And while on summer hiatus from producing “The Wendy Williams Show”, he is putting much muscle into his art alter-ego Akhenaten. And come Saturday, August 13th, you can join him, our girlfriend Cynthia Burgos, and a host of other artists in Harlem for their opening. Museum of African American Cinema MoAAC, School of Visual Arts Alumni Affairs and The New York State Office of General Services proudly presents “MANIFEST: A CONJURATION OF RADIANCE” (GREG MILLS – Art Gallery Curator). A HOST OF VISUAL ARTISTS pay TRIBUTE to Jean-Michel Basquiat – including: Akhenaten (AKA Anthony Harper) AND Cynthia Burgos. COME JOIN US on Saturday, August 13th from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm to: MEET THE ARTISTS at the exhibition (opening reception & film screening).
The Art Gallery – 2nd Floor – FREE ADMISSION
ADAM CLAYTON POWELL, JR. STATE OFFICE BUILDING
163 WEST 125TH STREET @ 7TH AVENUE
(You must have photo ID to enter building)
***
BASQUIAT TRIBUTE ART EXHIBITION SPECIAL EXTRA VIEWING DAYS TO PUBLIC ARE:
Saturday, August 13th – 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Sunday, August 14th – 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Monday, August 15th – 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Daily film screenings - 12:00 pm & 8:00 pm
NABJ IN PHILLY
Stumbled into a few days of freelance here in NYC at recurring client BET. WHEW! Among many things (as I gathered through certain elements in the archives – to produce an overview video of all the network has to offer), I got to see BET's upcoming, scripted sitcom "Reed Between The Lines" which co-stars Tracee Ellis Ross & Malcolm Jamal Warner. I love them both… and am EXCITED that they will be coming to Philadelphia for the National Association of Black Journalists’ Convention (I just heard that Tracee’s mom, my Miss Ross, visited the set of “Reed Between The Lines” – perhaps to ensure all is going well with her star daughter. NABJ is in a few days! www.nabj.org 
Other highlights:
NABJ AFTER DARK: MICHAEL BAISDEN – RELATIONSHIP FILM: DO WOMEN KNOW
WHAT THEY WANT?
Best selling author and nationally syndicated radio personality Michael Baisden has made a career of provoking conversation about everything from why men cheat to sexless marriages! Now, the outspoken relationship guru takes his raw style from the studio to the streets. No longer anonymous voices on the radio, would men be honest about their multiple relationships, interracial dating, and why they choose to date but not marry some women? 
And would women admit to having affairs with married men, take responsibility for their bad choices, and explain why they faked it? What started out as a cordial conversation with one simple question, “Do Women Know What They Want?,” exploded into a battle of the sexes that will have you laughing hysterically one minute and shouting at the screen the next!
LOOK WHO’S TALKING: INTERVIEWS GONE VIRAL
The key to getting eyeballs to follow that amazing interview you did with that A-list celebrity isn’t just about placement on a page, news program or on the Web; it’s about using your interviewing skills to get that amazing dish that will have tongues wagging. Top entertainment journalists talk about what it takes to really get that interview to be a newsmaker.
Nekesa Moody, Music Editor, Associated Press
Kelley L. Carter, Entertainment Journalist
Bob Meadows, Deputy Editor, Essence
Jermaine Hall, Editor in Chief, VIBE Magazine
Lola Ogunnaike, Cultural Correspondent
Alicia Quarles, Global Entertainment Editor, Associated Press
“TRINITY GOODHEART” SCREENING”
Based on an original screenplay written by Rhonda Baraka (Pastor Brown), Trinity Goodheart is the inspiring and heartwarming story of a smart, independent young girl (Erica Gluck) being raised by her single, free-spirited musician father (Eric Benét).
Finding comfort in creating decorative paper angels that provide inspiration to her and the patrons of Mr. Kwon’s Deli and Bookstore where she and her father work, Trinity begins to make peace with the fact that her unconventional father and her friend and confidant Mr. Kwon (James Hong) may be the only family she ever knows. But when an angel visits and tasks her to find the missing half of a broken heart pendant that once belonged to her long-lost mother, Trinity embarks on a mission to find her mom and uncover the truth about her parents’ complicated past. Discovering both sides of her estranged family are alive and accomplished, but missing a deeper sense of connection and purpose, she attempts to use her charm to encourage them to set aside their differences and come together as a family to bring her mother home. TRINITY
GOODHEART can be seen exclusively on GMC TV Saturday, Aug. 20 at 9 p.m. EST.
Moderator: TJ Holmes, CNN
Panelists: Eric Benét, Actor/Singer-Songwriter
Rhonda Baraka, Screenwriter
Paul Butler, GMC Senior Vice President/General Counsel
MICHELLE OBAMA ON A MISSION: IMPACT AFRICA
BET News/Docs takes viewers inside the First Lady’s motorcade as she takes her family and her bold initiatives global, retracing the struggle against apartheid and renewing the American commitment to supporting a free, democratic and prosperous South Africa.
In this half-hour television special, Michelle Obama speaks personally and directly to the BET audience about the importance of connecting to the world beyond US borders and the special link between the struggle for freedom in the US and Africa. It’s an inspiring adventure in high level diplomacy and a rare glimpse into the world of First Family.
THE JOY ROAD PROJECT SCREENING
The film Joy Road is a mainstream movie telling the story of a fictional corporation for whom necessity dictates that legislators pass laws that will keep privately- owned prisons at a capacity that will ensure profitability. The Joy Road “App” offers information about a similar real-life entity and enables users to become active in fighting against and impacting the effectiveness of this organization.
Also, in addition to addressing the prison industrial complex, Joy Road examines other issues within the black community such as middle class identity, the role of black professionals as well as who is to blame for our issues. Come join us and share your views as we discuss these issues; how they relate to one another; and what the Joy Road Project is doing about it.
NABJ PRESENTS: DISNEY CELEBRATES “DREAMS COME TRUE” SHOW AND RECEPTION
Disney Parks invites you to a celebration of dreams come true!
“Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine” turns five and to mark this important milestone Grammy award winning singer Yolanda Adams and other special guests take center stage for an unforgettable heart warming program, followed by a news maker reception. Co-hosted by Patrick L. Riley (Chair, NABJ A&E Task Force)
NABJ FILM FESTIVAL: “THE HELP”
Based on one of the most talked about books in years and a #1 New York Times best-selling phenomenon, “The Help” stars Emma Stone (“Easy A”) as Skeeter, Academy Award®–nominated Viola Davis (“Doubt”) as Aibileen and Octavia Spencer as Minny — three very different, extraordinary women in Mississippi during the 1960s, who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project that breaks societal rules and puts them all at risk. 
From their improbable alliance a remarkable sisterhood emerges, instilling all of them with the courage to transcend the lines that define them, and the realization that sometimes those lines are made to be crossed — even if it means bringing everyone in town face-to-face with the changing times. Deeply moving, filled with poignancy, humor and hope, “The Help” is a timeless and universal story about the ability to create change. “The Help” opens in theaters everywhere on August 10.
Moderator: Tamron Hall, MSNBC
Panelists: Viola Davis, Academy-Award© Nominated Actress
NABJ FILM FESTIVAL: “RED TAILS”
Lucasfilm Ltd. is proud to preview a special sneak peek at RED TAILS – a high-flying WWII epic inspired by the heroism of the first all African-American aerial combat unit. Showcasing the inspiring story of the Tuskegee Airmen to the screen, the film celebrates the intrepid young airmen who took to the skies to fight for their country – and the fate of the free world. Selected members of the cast will make a guest appearance.
Charles Floyd Johnson, Producer
Terrence Howard, Actor
Octavia Spencer, Actress
Tate Taylor, Director/Screenwriter
Kathryn Stockett, Author
CARL NELSON
My BFF Carl Nelson attracted a round-robin of LOVE for his birthday recently.
Girlfriends Mairie Raxy; Ivonne Velasquez-Razzaq; and a host of others pulled out the stops for us to celebrate our Carl.
On the rooftop of MiMa, the party went on into the late hour...
LUV U, CARL! And Melky Jean was in the house! 
And our friend Luigi was there as well… from Italy.
SINGER’S LOUNGE
Don't miss THE SINGER'S LOUNGE SERIES. There’s another one coming up. It's FREE & so INSPIRING! FUN too! The first one I attended: Gordon Chambers & Melisa Morgan. And let me tell you: It takes a village to put it on – so SHOUT OUT to: Savoy Walker, Mark A Forrest; Ulysses Carter; Anwar Robinson; & my Morehouse brother Jonathan D. NiBlack (who reps Dawkins &Dawkins, who performed the week after Gordon and Melisa).
Also, BET SUNDAY'S BEST SEASON 2 FINALIST JESSICA REEDY performed. My buddy Anwar Robinson hosts and SINGS! It all takes place at the Samsung Experience (in Time Warner mall in Columbus Circle) – one level above BORDERS books (the iconic store chain that is poised to close down very soon in the wake of an unfortunate bankruptcy situation. I LOVE BOOKS… and BORDERS). 
Anwar is – of course – an American Idol alum. A couple of weeks ago, he sang a beautiful song, "Coming Home", for our soldiers (Video out soon!). Prior to his stellar performance, he testified of a near-fatal scenario he experienced with a friend while driving last week. A young man held a pistol up to Anwar & his passengers - even shot at them. He wasn't hit but says he's forever grateful to God to have gotten away from that situation and to be here – PERIOD! – to testify; sing; and to lift the GRACE of GOD up HIGH! AMEN! The stars of the evening were Gordon Chambers and Miss Melisa Morgan – both of whom shared generously during the Q&A and sang amazingly well during their brief performances.
Thanks to my friend Ulysses Carter (long-standing Whitney Houston PR rep) for inviting us. The guys at SAVVY MARKETING (Savoy Walker & Mark A. Forrest) put on a FIRST CLASS affair that was scored during breaks by DJ Suave Luciano. After a great Q&A with Anwar - chock full of great tid-bits about his career & collabos (Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, Queen Latifah, etc.), Gordon Chambers performed two great tunes - one from his first CD (dedicated to Luther) and another - a preview from his upcoming 3rd CD "Sincere" [A ditty called "I Can't Love You (If You Don't Love You)"].
GREAT SET, though I hoped he would sing my favorite tune that he penned, “If You Love Me” by Brownstone! Melisa Morgan also gave a great interview – including a tid-bit of how she sang background for greats like Chaka Khan and Whitney Houston before she got her deal. Then, she proceeded to SANGING "Fools Paradise"!!! and "Do Me Baby"! THREE standing ovations later, the energy in the room inspired an impromptu duet with Melisa and Gordon on Melisa (and Kashif’s) “Love Changes"!!!!!
BEAUTIFUL NIGHT! SHOUT OUT to Rowena Husbands for providing me pix on this AWESOME night: www.blinkofaneyephotographyonline.com
DWIGHT
Was great to pop by Schomburg Center in Harlem to see friend Dwight Eubanks.
He's doing more than "Real Housewives of Atlanta" these days.
He was commissioned to work his hosting magic at Clairol Professional's ART OF FABULOUS hair competition. 
Shout out to InternationalModel Jay DeAgo who joined us. 
He sports some of Dwight's men's underwear in his new international calendar for which Ant (the artist Akhenaten) directed and shot one of the dozen art images (http://www.jaydeago.com/).
TAHA
Brooklyn is getting lots of "... life of Riley..." LOVE of late (I do and have always loved me some BK!). Manivone’s boo and our friend Taha Clayton's SOLO ART SHOW opened (and is still running) at Habana Outpost. It was a BLAST!
A posse of us are just back from DENVER where we enjoyed the July 4th holiday: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/7/13/best-thing.html 
CONGRATS TAHA! See Taha's work here: www.artlordz.com. Was also a treat to hang out with two of my HERO WRITERS Michael A. Gonzales and Amy Linden!
SPIRITED ACTOR
Shout out to my friend Tracey Moore who has always been an international superstar of spiritual and powerful note to me. 
Well, now the proof is in the pudding. First destination: Ghana where Tracey is making spirited actors' dreams come true along with my friend and Morehouse brother/spirited actor EXTRAORDINAIRE Rockmond Dunbar! 
It’s “The Spirited Actor in Search of Africa's Next Hollywood Star”… and gonna be on in the Fall.
TICHINA ARNOLD
CONGRATS to Miss Tichina Arnold on "Happily Divorced" with Fran Drescher. 
Now the TV LAND writers must challenge themselves to use her many talents via better scripts! OKAY!!? Meanwhile, keep being AMAZING, TICHINA!
IMAN
GREAT JOB, Mike Ruiz! 
He joined with my buddies Sam Fine (makeup) and Oscar James (hair) on some recent shots of Iman (www.mikeruiz.com).
BEAUTIFUL... as always! 
I LOVE IMAN… and THANK all of you for supporting our IMAN Cosmetics/”In The Glow” campaign. I’m so happy many of you were able to get pampered.
LISA RAYE
CONGRATS to Lisa Raye and all of the "Single Ladies" (and gents)! 
The VH-1 show has been picked up for Season 2! http://www.s2smagazine.com/stories/2011/07/singles-ladies-renewed-season-2
KIM COLES
I always get excited when my girl Kim Coles pops into NYC.
Hadn't seen her in a few months. But she just emailed me that she is coming back in mid-August for a friend's animal charity event. 
Click here for more info & a peek at Kim's new look: http://youtu.be/qbiSUEhbWOs HOPEFULLY we'll connect over dinner or drinks. XO
KIMCHI CHRONICLES
Shout out to Nathan Hale Williams for hipping me to new show.
It's called Kimchi Chronicles (PBS) & its star Marja Vongerichten, who is the wife of celebrity chef Jean-George Vongerichten.
Kimchi Chronicles is more than a cooking show. It is an exploration into Korean culture and history as we watch Marja discover her roots (She's Korean & African American). www.kimchichronicles.tv 
FAISON HARLEM STREET FAIR
Shout out to friends George Faison; 
T; Rick Pelzer;
Earline Franklin;
John Stanley (who has been traveling all over as Music Director for Miss Patti LaBelle + performing and touring on behalf of his own music and non-Patti collaborations); Alyson Williams;
and so many others who made the 5th Annual Harlem International Street Fair a SUCCESS!
GOOD TIMES HAD BY ALL - including me! 
Afterwards, we enjoyed a lite bite with friend Castro at Harlem Tavern. 
Remember to check out Alyson for Stormy Mondays at Melba's EVERY Monday Night for Happy Hour 7pm - 10pm. Melba's 300 West 114th Street, Harlem, NY 10026 - Reservation 212-864-7777
THE VOICE
Just did 'The Voice'-Season 2 audition in NYC. I sang 'This Woman's Work' & 'Can't Let Go' (Mariah).
I was offered an appointment to go right into the call-back round of auditions. So there were no lines. Judges were nice and seemed to enjoy. They video-taped. I feel good. If I go to Hollywood, they will call after the US tryout tour of many other U-S cities!
Ant nudged...and I put myself in the hot seat (AGAIN! LOL!). We'll see! Meanwhile, we need to attract some RIGHT-NOW revenue! LOL!
KEEP ON DANCING
Like Sundae Sermon which I hosted last week Harlem, Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn brought friends - old & new, including long-lost buddies Eliseo Perpee Palomar Baloyo & James Dunn. 
Then, there was more Sundae Sermon: www.sundaesermon.com. And I LOVE that there is so many places to KEEP ON (DANCING).
SOLEDAD O'BRIEN
My girlfriend Sidra Smith recently hired me to be consulting producer/co-writer on a cross-cultural marketing project with advertising/marketing ICON Ogilvy. It gave me the chance to work again with Soledad O'Brien who was plucked as our stellar host for the roundtable.
Along with Rachael Ray, I had the chance to field produce a big segment on Soledad for my former Chicago client. Rachael taught Soledad how to prepare a picnic for a wonderful day in Central Park with her kids. Of course, Soledad is also my NABJ sister who I often see in that world. I'm looking forward to seeing her in Philadelphia for our Convention.
KEVIN ANDRE DICKENS
Speaking of NABJ: My friend Kevin Andre Dickens is an AWESOME designer. His FABULOUS collection of ready-to-wear/made-to-order suiting (and tailoring) services will silhouette me while in Philadelphia this week for the National Association of Black Journalists’ Convention (www.nabj.org). 
The website featuring Kevin’s extraordinary work for men & women will be re-launched soon. In the meantime, stop by and visit Kevin at his design studio (325 W 38th Street, Suite 1206).
"MORE THAN CONQUERORS"
Shout out to my girls Andrea and Shani who invited Ant and me out to Brooklyn to hang out on one of the borough's finest rooftops.
New friends Cuncho and Andre L. Wilkins were also in the house. Andre is a documentary film-maker whose "More Than Conquerors" explores African Americans and their struggles and triumphs with Cancer (forthe American Cancer Association).
The project was a finalist at the American Black Film Festival in Miami a few weeks back. CONGRATS ANDRE! For more information on his project, click on: www.kickthecanentertainment.com
VIVIAN SESSOMS
My girlfriend Katrina Boswell's client Vivian Sessoms is performing LIVE! this Sunday, August 7, 2011 at 7:30 pm at FEINSTEIN's at Loews Regency (540 Park Avenue): http://mim.io/42ea51.
This is what they are saying about her:
"Sessoms' clear, exquisite voice shimmers against a percolating R&B/jazz backdrop." -- Billboard Magazine
"Sessoms' voice is a malleable wonder that rhapsodically floats from ageless soul shouts to intuitive jazz phrasing to spontaneous pop pep." -- Urban Network magazine
"As Vivian sang the first few lyrics of the classic song "At Last", I thought the heavens had opened up and rained down some of the best singing and performance style I had ever heard."-- Patti Austin
It was July 20, 1994.A day I’ll ALWAYS remember.
That was the day my mother died. It’s been 17 years since she passed away… QUEEN ELIZABETH BELLINGER RILEY! I LOVE YOU… and miss you so! R.I.P.
THE LIFE OF RILEY
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BEST THING
BEYONCE
Got to experience BEYONCE’s GMA concert in Central Park with Ant and my nephew. 
A dear friend at ABC hooked us up with VIP passes. 
I wasn’t able to get an updated pic of BEY with me.
But our cameras captured some especially intimate shots. She performed a handful of new tunes from her “4” CD. 
Oh! Will Smith's boys were in the house.
When she was on her BDAY tour, you’ll recall Ant took me to Manila to see the diva. She serenaded me Happy Birthday as the 2007 trip was MY BDAY GIFT!
http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/11/12/manifest-destiny-destination-manila.html
DENVER
Beautiful Colorado was the back-drop for our 4th-of-July holiday.
In addition to meeting the parents, our host Jean opened up her well-appointed home to us.
We spent lots of time on the rooftop – watching fireworks; sipping wine; and even doing YOGA!
Master Yogi Tyrone Beverly made a house call and instructed Ant, and our friends Manivone and Taha, in a moving and motivating session. 
Additionally, buddy Brina took us out. 
We did karaoke – twice (at Pierre’s and Armida’s).
We got our tresses maintained at Center of Attention as she and expert stylist Tyrone worked their magic.
Turns out Brina knows another of my friends – from the National Association of Black Journalists, reporter Don Champion.
And can I shout out Manivone’s peeps (and the FOH!)! Also, The Gypsy House is the bomb! I had so much fun, I'm pondering a return in September to see my old & new friends. Oh! And if I time it out just right, I’ll see MISS ROSS too… on 9/20!
SUNDAE SERMON
SUNDAE SERMON was a BLAST...
and it was so GREAT to hang with so many of my friends.
We danced underneath a BEAUTIFUL NYC sky!
I hosted.
And DJ Stormin Norman and company had that music pumping
! 
And of course, my girl Michaela angela Davis was in
the mix. 
Please continue to support: www.sundaesermon.com AMEN!
PROJECT1VOICEAn awesome fundraising event to benefit 5 Theatres in NYC. In addition, Project 1 Voice had over 15 readings of Alice Childress’ “Trouble in Mind” on 6.20.11 including: Washington, DC, Los Angeles, Birmingham, Chicago, Houston, Milwaukee, and San Francisco.
The amazing NYC cast gave us an experience: Leslie Uggams, Malachy McCourt, Alano Miller, LaChanze, Andre DeShields, Justin Lupe-Schomp, Bill Irwin & Don Stephenson. Directed by Charles Randolph Wright. My friend Erich McCall and Gwen Gilliam and the entire Project 1 Voice team did their thing. And I saw so many of my friends – from my Morehouse brothers Maurice Mcrae and Charles Reese; Ken Roberson; Karen Chilton; Marcia Pendelton; Clay Cane; Dwayne Grayman;
and many more. To learn more visit. www.project1voice.org
LATOYA JACKSON
I stopped by 230 Fifth recently to toast Miss LaToya Jackson on her new book. 
Y'all know I LOVE me some LaToya! 
Her new book “Starting Over” chronicles her special relationship with her brother Michael.
She was a gem! Shout out to Chip Duckett for giving us access. 
We too got to CONGRATULATE Tony-award-winning Nikki James who won for the virtually-clean-sweeping “The Book of Mormon”… and we had many friends in the house – including Erica Watson (“Fat Bitch”); Flo Anthony; Cynthia Horner (“Right On!”); and a host of others.
ALERON
Shout out to my friend Harriette Cole whose Harriette Cole Media produced a book signing party last night in NYC to launch a series of vampire books called Aleron by a new author named Kane. 
It was a fun night with friends – old and new. 
Shout out to: Sid, 
Jacque Lee, Mykel; Tanya Wright (from HBO’s “True Blood”); my former NBC 4 colleague Maurice Dubois;
iconic male model Rashid Silvera;
Chaz Parker (from HBO’s 'Oz' and 'The Wire');
Harlem publicist/event producer extraordinaire Yvette Hayward; Napiera Groves; my friend Margot Jordan 
(photographer with the most) and her daughter Markita Prescott – actress/singer/dancer on the rise here in the city. 
Also ran into two Morehouse brothers (from my same class): actor Nasser Metcalfe & Shawn Peters.
TRAE
Rapper Trae's listening party at the Worldwide Universal Headquarters to hear his new project "Street King" - featuring collabos with Rick Ross; Jadakiss; Lloyd; Game; Gorilla Zoe; Jadakiss; J-Dawg; Scarface; Wyclef Jean; Shawty Ko; Lupe Fiasco; Big Boi; etc.
Shout out to Jah Mikal who is guiding Trae’s segue from regional to international as he did for Akon; Yelawolf; and – soon – Nikkiya (who has been likened to Erykah Badu). A pop down to The Village by Café Wha? and The Monster signaled the coming of PRIDE this upcoming weekend.
Even ran into legendary make-up artist Byron Barnham – maker of Iman's cosmetics formula and he still beats her stunning canvas beautiful today. HAPPY PRIDE, Y’ALL!
BET
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yWhhc2G72E I had a hand in producing the video elements that complimented CEO of BET Debra Lee's speech at Consumer 360 yesterday in Orlando. Along with a "village" to pull-off the two-week project, I'm happy that the more than 1,000 attendees thought the presentation a resounding success (Standing Ovation to boot!). 
THANKS BET! Meanwhile, shout out to BET! Black History Month Campaign 2010 (which I had a freelance hand in helping produce) was nominated for a Promax Award (the Oscars of PROMOs).
Much love to Michaela angela Davis for sharing the news + all of our BFFs at BET!
RODNEY CHESTER
Big BRAVO to Rodney Chester whose one-man-show was AWESOME!
Friends and producers Nathan Hale Williams and Lloyd Boston (also host) did the THANG (at friend George Faison's Firehouse)...
and BRILLIANTLY so. Plus, it’s always EXCITING to see my friends Deborah Gregory, Maurice Jamal, DJ Baker, and new friend Christian Vincent who played Ricky on “Noah’s Arc”.
THE HELP & MOGUL (AGAIN)
Congrats to Terrance Dean whose listening party for his debut novel "Mogul" was held at Nectar. And we took Ern and Lamoh to see another preview screening of "The Help".
Between the four of us, there are 8 THUMBS UP! Please be sure to check it out when it opens in August! www.facebook.com/thehelpmovie
THE SKINNY
Congrats to buddy Patrik-Ian Polk as he shoots his current film project "THE SKINNY"! SUP to the beautiful cast as well! XO
PRIDE 2011
Happy PRIDE! 
Got to see many of my peeps!
Shout out to Devon, MKW, Mario, Jason, Marqice, Trevor, Jeff, Carl, and a host of others.
PROSECCO
Shout out to Hanna Lee (www.hannaleecommunications.com & www.unwindwithwine.com) for inviting us to Setai Fifth Avenue Hotel for her client Bortolomiol Prosecco’s tasting.
In fact, Elvira Bortolomiol was in attendance and is one of Italy's few female Prosecco producers. She showcased her family's Proseccos: Brut, Rose and Car
tizze. She also spoke about a new book honoring her father and his success at making Prosecco, a worldclass sparkler.
And she discussed Valdobbiadene as a travel destination. 
Then, we popped down to the hotel’s lobby bar where talent agent Jason Marks (WWW.JMTALENT.COM) was hosting a PRO-MAX party (www.promaxbda.org).
It made for a perfect segue.
I saw lots of friends - old and new. And it made for a nice toast, given the PRO-MAX nod.
RED ROOSTER
One recent night allowed me to connect with my Amazing Grace Nichole Andrews Shellman and our posse - including Troy Morrell; Shareen King; and Kenny. 
And what a good time we had in Harlem at Harlem's hot spot, Marcus Samuelson's Red Rooster. Shout out to Sidra Smith et al for making it a blast. And Derek? "The Boss" was the bomb! LOL!
REV. AL SHARPTON
Shout out to Elinor Tatum who recently booked me to be a guest on Al Sharpton's radio show. 
As pop culture analyst, I talked 'gay marriage': http://newsone.com/nation/news-one-staff/listen-live-at-1pm-newsone-on-keeping-it-real-with-al-sharpton/ Thanks to Elinor Tatum who invited me to join the chat.
TED GIBSON
My dear friend Ted Gibson and I have worked on some historic TV projects together (and some works-in-progress). He just sent a note, asking "Did you know hairdressers don’t get an OSCAR?" Ted and others say it's time for hairdressers to be recognized in Hollywood. 
Help him make this happen by LIKE-ing the following: http://www.facebook.com/WeNeedAnOscarForHair
TANIKA RAY
Y'all know I love me some Tanika Ray Hgtv - my Spelman sister! Well, please be sure to SET YOUR TIVOs or TUNE IN to her new show DESIGN STAR, which she is hosting on HGTV (www.hgtv.com).
TRAMAINE BAILEY
You all know that the United House of Prayer for All People is my family’s church. 
One of my fellow members from the Atlanta church, Tramaine L. Bailey has a new book of poetry worth checking out. Find Tramaine L. Bailey on FACEBOOK and/or www.tramainebailey.com 
CONGRATS, TRAMAINE!
SUPERSTAR K
I was robbed! And I was given a gift at the same time. So while my appearance on "Million Dollar Password" repeated all through this past weekend on the Game Show Network, ANT had a new possibility up his sleeve: "Superstar K" - The 3rd Season, one of Korea's answers to 'Idol'; "X Factor"; "The Voice"; etc. Like with 'Password', I was resistant.
I love to watch those shows but being under a pressure cooker or someone's wavering and/or cliche judgments is not my idea of a good time. Moreover, as a long-standing field producer myself, I am more interested in decoding the production and the behind-the-scenes manipulation than being in it. That said, I'm no stranger to being on-camera (as a spot personality) and - as Ant put it - I am always singing to somebody's praise at either karaoke, cabaret, or the Radio City Music Hall stage. Oh! And Ant added "The winner of Superstar K (which doesn't have an age cap like 'Idol') gets $500,000 and a car!" Since my 2008 'Password' win - $25,000 - I know better than NOT to follow Ant's vision, even when I may not want to be bothered or may find myself stretching in foreign territory.
In fact, just months ago, Ant Berry-Gordy'd me into "America's Got Talent"s NYC auditions as he'd gotten a leak that one the NBC show's scouts would be in the house at one of our karaoke spots. I sang "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" and - VOILA! - I got a scheduled appointment to audition; then call-back; and the hope of a call to go to Hollywood. But the call never came. 
Fast forward just two days from Ant sharing this Korean contest and I am in a line of mostly 600, singing ("And I..." again). The twist: there were 5 contestants singing simultaneously through their respective rounds on the same New York Times theater stage behind a curtain. Through all of that, I am the only act to get applause. So we were not surprised that I got a call-back late that Saturday night to show up (today) for "Superstar K"s 2nd-round of auditions (This time at Liberty Park in Jersey City). 
If I would have made it thru this round, Ant and I would have been going to tape the FINALs in Korea for three days at the end of August (towards that $1/2 million and that car). But after a full-day of shooting - including back-story on Ant and me; my rehearsing "And I..." which they asked me to sing again; and the subsequent audition (Another round of applause from crew; producers; and volunteers), the judges decided that as good as they think I am, turning around a Korean-language CD to the Asian marketplace right after the late-summer finals would be too tight to justify keeping me in the running. And though they experienced me a quick-study for today's taping (because of phonetics and my memory), a full album - to them - should go to someone who knows the language. But it was quite a few days "...in the Life of Riley..." and as always, I'll keep going for my dreams (even inside Korean packaging that may not be the most comfy fit).
And I even quoted my muse (Miss Ross) to the producers and camera folks who I just knew would be ambushing me for an "I'm-Going-to-Korea" moment when I exited the audition space to return to Ant. I said "I Ain't Been Licked!" (and might consider learning Korean for Season 4. For kicks...) So NO KOREA...for now. But the "Idol"-esque set-up piece should still be cute. LOL!
FRIEND TO FRIEND
A dear friend of mine passed away.
MARLON LAYNE? I love & miss you!
He was my fellow MISS ROSS SUPER-FAN!
And this song is dedicated to him: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMc_B7ey5l0 
Many of us indeed feel like '...he was our flower plucked away...!' And we will FOREVER love and REMEMBER Marlon Layne. I just found this entry from a Greenwich, CT concert that Miss Ross performed for her boys' teen center. Marlon and I attended together. & here are a couple of entries that 'recall the scenes that (will) never die:http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/5/12/where-god-left-his-shoes.html AND http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/1/12/stolen-moments-of-love.html 
THE LIFE OF RILEY
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