A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

December 21, 2012

Georgia is more than on my mind this week. It's the blast-from-my-past backdrop of my Christmas holiday season. Between the beautiful NEW homes of our once-New-Jersey-based girlfriend Tina and once-Dallas-based girlfriend Patrice (and hubby Keron), the Atlanta leg proved quite the BLUES-BUSTER (Sometimes these holidays can find me quite SAD in reflection of what will never be again. But one friend... reminded me: CHERISH YESTERDAY! DREAM TOMORROW! LIVE TODAY! And alongside childhood BFF Ernest, I - on day one - had old-time fav J.R. CRICKETS in Mapleton (where I stumbled into Savannah homeboy and Morehouse brother Brian who I'd not seen since 1991); did a little shopping at Cumberland Mall; got to sit on photo shoot with Ern's niece Sydney who is one-to-watch and too cute (while watching Miss Ross' "Christmas in Washington"); and reconnected with one of my NYC-BFFs Trevor.

December 22, 2012

Day 2 back in GA on the ATL leg brought southern comforts (Picadilly Cafeteria with dear girlfriend Carla; home-made cookies at my sister and her husband's Lithonia home; margaritas at ATL-BFF Elise's place; Metro Cafe (old Mick's) provided one of my northern comforts: karaoke which Carla, Ern, and I enjoyed! I did Earth, Wind, & Fire's "Reasons"; Natalie Cole's "Our Love"; Whitney's "How Will I Know"; and Mariah's "Make It Happen"! FUN!); and the chance to be the first overnight guests with our fam/friends Patrice; Keron; and their boys Zach and Hunter (and a special visit from one of my dearest friends Chandra Jones and her awesome little boy Gavin!).

December 23, 2012

After last night's festivities, including a night cap at Bulldog's with friend Carla and her friends Deb and Kim, Patrice; Keron; Zach; and Hunter were Ern's and my hosts overnight into today: a delicious meal of fried pork chop; green beans; corn; mashed potatoes; and BET's "ROOTS" marathon for back-drop! Thanks y'all! Then, a pop by BFF Camille - in town from her current abode Malaysia! Always good to catch up with her PLUS she sold us some great, international goods (for gifting)! Then, en route to Savannah, we stopped by the home of my "Original Amazing Grace" (and member of Ern's and my friend circle in high school) Natalie to exchange gifts; eat some apple cake; catch up with Nat, her husband Dwayne, and the girls Lydia and Hannah. RE-NOURISHING TIME!

December 24, 2012

CHRISTMAS EVE: A little shopping at childhood hang: OGLETHORPE MALL (where I bumped into my favorite childhood cousin Eric and his lovely wife Felicia); CAREY HILLIARDS (for fried shrimp; deviled crab; white buttered toast; hush puppies; and potato salad); 1ST ROUND of our FAMILY REUNION at cousins Dee Dee and her husband Chris' place (featuring a house full of my LOVED ONES). SO BLESSED & GRATEFUL to have such a GREAT FAMILY! MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!

December 25, 2012

December 26, 2012

December 28, 2012 – January 1, 2013

AND ALL MY DAYS IN SAVANNAH! Great food! Great family! BIG fun! But all good things must come to an end! Time at home wrapped! And the wind blew us back HOME to NJ and NYC to bring in the New Year - including a lovely open house at the home of my birthday-mate Robin Stone and her son Zach. Oh! And one more karaoke with Moochie before the year wrapped.

AND HERE WE ARE!

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYBODY!

To see more of the pix from my TRIP TO GEORGIA, click here:

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. Though Miss Ross was missing, her legacy was not. Kelly Clarkson, Mary J., and J-Hud did “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” off the top… and there were other references throughout. And Miss Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah were in the house along with quite an impressive roster of performers – old and new. I - of course - will NEVER forget VH1 DIVAS 2000: A TRIBUTE TO DIANA ROSS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aVOI3SFpH4 And now the GRAMMYS have gotten it right as it has just been announced that MISS ROSS will receive her long-overdue LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT GRAMMY in February (www.grammy.com). CONGRATS, MISS ROSS!!!!

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...>

DECADE ENDER

Prior to attending the Erykah Badu listening party a couple of weeks ago, NBC Digital Correspondent and friend Mara Schiavocampo invited me to 30 Rockefeller Center to offer on-camera pop culture analysis to a piece she was working on for NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams (on-line) and MSNBC. (You’ll recall, Mara had me weigh in on Democratic Presidential Candidate Barack Obama when – in Iowa – he and the now-First-Lady Michelle Obama expressed their bond via THE POUND: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXc6x5JlJuw. That piece was the most-watched video on MSN for the lion’s share of 2008. I take credit for it. But perhaps my buddy Obama had something to do with it as well.). Since then, I’ve been invited back a couple of times – including this currrent decade ender piece that will be running on MSNBC this week: all day New Year's Eve (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pYKZBjEx40). I am blessed to more-and-more be able to bring my on-camera/personality center stage – including the recent Disney event I hosted which introduced “The Princess & The Frog” to the National Association of Black Journalists for the first time: http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/NABJDisneyMagic.wmvhttp://216.117.188.141/PRiley/NABJDisneyMagic.wmv.

HOLIDAY PARTY TRAIN

But I have more current things to reflect on than the whole decade. My long-time friend Carl convinced me to come out and play as we haven’t hung out in a minute. It was the holiday party for my favorite boutique N, which is now in a new location on Lenox Avenue (between 118^th and 119^th Streets). Since Ant had left for Denver to be with his family and had already packed, I figured one more social round in NYC before I leave to be with my fam in Savannah for Christmas couldn’t hurt. With toy in hand (as it was a benefit), I pulled myself together and am glad I did. It was for charity), I went into the city to see some folks I hadn't seen since returning from L.A. (including Carl). Not only was it good to see Carl but it was GREAT to meet his sister Sharon’s baby boy Nelson who we’ve nicknamed “The Miracle Baby”. Also, my L.A. earth angel (now-back-in-Harlem) Sidra was in the house along with Murphy. And it wouldn’t be the “N” party without the faces behind the brand: Lenn, Larry, Nikoa, and my buddy Jamar. Also in the house: my Morehouse brother Michael James who owns the grooming line Frederick Benjamin: http://www.frederickbenjamin.com; Devon Christopher, Harlem entrepreneur: Publisher of BLEU Magazine and co-owner of Atomic Wings - also in Harlem. I just celebrated its 1st Anniversary (with Ant, Brian, and Kelli): http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/12/21/and-this-christmas-will-be-a-very-special-christmas.html; we also stopped by the home of Carl's old neighbor Mike Bianco for espresso (imported from Italy). And The N holiday party after party was also in Harlem at 67 Orange Street bar/lounge. This is Kevin Reed, a fan of my blog before we actually met a few months back. Awesome guy! Patti LaBelle's renowned music director/pianist John Stanley was also in attendance... and it was great to meet him after admiring his work for many years. Nice fellow.

CHRISTMAS EVE

And even when the night glitters, the toilet can get stopped up and, hey, it doesn’t smell like roses. But my super Danny came to the rescue on Christmas Eve in the wake of my much-later-night-than-I-intended at the holiday parties. This, as I'm pulling it together to get to the airport in just over one hour. YIKES! Though Ant packed for me, I was reminded of things I didn't want to forget i.e. my IPOD, chargers, toiletries, etc. Plus, I wanted to pare down some of his selects with the luggage specs in mind – from check-in fees to weight. Based on what was in my pocket, I wanted to ensure I could carry on. Once all that was done, my driver/Godchild's father Owen was awaiting to take me to the airport. Plus, I wanted to give him my gifts for Godchild Owen Angelo. But I got the Christmas gift: Owen Angelo (and his mom Sandy) came along for the ride. Owen Angelo was so happy to receive his gifts and gave me lots of love and hugs for his Disney goodies.

HOME SWEET HOME! SAVANNAH

Once home in Savannah (after a layover in Charlotte: CHEAPEST FLIGHT), my nephew picked me up and took me to his parents' place. Though now a FORTUNE 500 exec (soon to call NYC home after he graduates my alma mater Morehouse in May), my nephew is still my go-for and chauffer. He provided me his laptop to go over some notes in my inbox. Plus, he warmed his father (my brother) and me up some of their leftovers (including RED kool aid). From there, I did get home to my Dad and his wife Diana’s home (which too is my childhood home). And it’s always nice to be home in the bed and basking in all things nostalgic.

CHRISTMAS WEEKEND

The pictures are gonna have to speak the 1,000 words as Savannah was humping and pumping for my three days there:http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=134128&id=662073736&l=97f21ad04a.

Diana prepared an awesome Southern breakfast on Christmas morning.

Then, we opened gifts once my sister arrived.

Though knocking on 40, I’m still “the baby” and love to open gifts and get something. This year, ‘cash’ was ‘king’… and much needed. But it was also great to see the joy on Dad & Diana's faces as they opened their gifts.

 My late mother Queen Elizabeth Bellinger Riley’s side of the family always gathers at her only sibling/sister Mary Lee’s house or – in recent years – the home of Mary Lee’s daughter/my cousin Felecia’s house.

As tradition goes, we interview new boyfriends/girlfriends… and in this case… fiances – including Felecia’s baby girl/Navy woman Kea’s new man Roc who passed my interview with flying colors.

They are getting married New Year’s Day (right after the strike of midnight). CONGRATS!

Also, Felecia’s oldest child Demaris (Dee Dee, we call her) and her husband Chris now have a little girl Meagan.

And she just loved her cousin Patrick’s “The Princess & The Frog” gift.

 I also gave an incarnation of the royal gift package to cousin Bozo (Kejuanna’s daughter Leilani).

And Auntee Mary Lee was waxing and relaxing in her new recliner which her kids Lecia & Tabby bought her.

We all gathered at her home the next day to clear the way for the chair.

It was so exciting to go through the old pictures and documents and uncover awesome things about our family history.

After that wonderful stop, we went to my Auntee Goldie’s house. She is my Dad’s sister and holds the fort for the Riley family. She made sure I got my “chitterlings” on… and they were delicious as always. (DON’T JUDGE ME! LOL!).

Given my Dad’s brother Uncle Bobby just passed away and many of us gathered for his homegoing a couple of months ago, it was great to be together again. We got to fill in the rest of the family who couldn’t attend the funeral on how special the ceremony was (and Uncle Bobby’s life and influence in Pontiac, MI). After all, that milestone reminded all of us why we should be proud to call ourselves R-I-L-E-Y. And while Daddy and Diana went to his high school reunion gala (Woodville Tompkins), I got to hang out with my other family, THE MAYNORS (the clan from which my New Jersey neighbor and best friend since 7^th grade Ern hails). Ern and his siblings invited me out to hang with them. I’ve always been the 6^th – slightly darker (before color correction) – sibling in the MAYNOR mix.

… and now I’m home. Still need to land some steady work but am trusting the top of the year to introduce some opportunities. Plus, for inspiration (as my multi-hyphenated talents go), I have:

* My girlfriend JACQUE REID who is one of the co-stars on VH1's reality show

 "Lets Talk About Pep" [The 'urban Sex and the City']. SEE THE TRAILER HERE:  http://www.vh1.com/video/play.jhtml?id=1628583&vid=466420

Most importantly, tune in to the premiere on January 11th at 10:30pm on VH1! 

* My girlfriend RICHELLE TAYLOR who has written her book “DISCOVERING WHO YOU REALLY ARE” – a book for African American women with universal appeal for all as the search for self-discovery goes. www.communitylinksmagazine.com

* My diva SHERYL LEE RALPH who brings us "singin' and swingin' into the 2010" at Upright Cabaret! The Film, Television and Broadway star SHERYL LEE RALPH (Sister Act 2, The Flintstones, OBC of Dreamgirls) brings three rare solo cabaret performances (including one on her birthday). She takes you on a musical journey of songs you will love from Broadway show-stoppers to R&B including songs from Dreamgirls! Ms. Ralph has captivated audiences for many years and has used her talent to raise money and awareness for HIV/AIDS related charities. "Simply Sheryl Lee" is your chance to get up close and personal with this smart, sexy and brilliantly talented songstress as she continues to raise money for the Diva (AIDS) Foundation.
Click for Tickets - New Year's Eve with Sheryl Lee Ralph...

 
HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

The good news is Ant & I figured out a way to spend Christmas with our respective families in Denver and Savannah. Unfortunately we will do it separately. I took him to airport this morning. I'm leaving Thursday for GA. Ant would like me to come ring in New Year's with he and his peeps in Denver but we'll accept a windfall/hookup if that is to be. Otherwise, Ant and I will reconnect when he returns from Denver at the top of the year. And we’ll make the best of the distance during a holiday to which we are used to spending together. FOR NEXT YEAR: We DECLARE WIN-WIN all around: stops by each of our homes… and something TROPICAL or EUROPEAN to boot. MARK MY WORDS!

Meanwhile, as we look ahead to greener pastures (the fiscal kind), we’re doing the best we can to manage life – calling joy forth as much as we can.

Well, now that THE PRINCESS & THE FROG is doing so well at the box office, I'm reminded that back in August of this year, I got the chance to introduce Disney's first African American princess to the National Association of Black Journalists. I hosted an event that featured the voice of Princess Tiana, Anika Noni-Rose; additionally, we presented the first Princess Tiana (who will meet & greet at Disney's amusement parks). And we previewed the first 30 minutes of the animated wonder. See an excerpt of that night on this link: http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/NABJDisneyMagic.wmv.

 TIDINGS OF COMFORT AND JOY

My Amazing Grace Nichole brought TIDINGS OF COMFORT AND JOY to all of her friends this weekend. She threw a HOLIDAY PARTY at her New Rochelle home. Her many friends from the neighborhood (and beyond) came. Also, her sister Tori came up from DC to showcase and sell her beautiful art (from paintings to greeting cards). AWESOME NIGHT ALL AROUND!

 IT’S CHRISTMAS TIME IN THE CITY

My friends Brian and Kelli came to NYC from L.A. (where they often hosted me while I was out there). From West Village's The Path Cafe to brunch at The Garage to karaoke at our spot... to Atomic Wings 1st anniversary (our boy Devon Christopher’s spot) to Harlem hanging, we had a GREAT TIME! And Brian and Kelli also took Ant and me out on the town again later in the week. CAFETERIA for dinner. BAR 89 in SOHO afterward. KARAOKE night cap. Always FUN! We got to meet Kelli’s law school friends John and Emily.

A VERY SPECIAL SEASON

Had a great night of spiritual renewal and love with Ant, Nichole, Monica, and my family at MOMENTUM (www.momentumeducation.com). It was good to reconnect to such a rich work – including being with my LEADERSHIP buddies David and Judy again. This adult education sequence continues to nurture our choices and ways of being in this life. Extra LOVE for MOMENTUM’s founder Robin Lynn.

(SHOPPING) BAG LADY

Popular blog YBF is abuzz about Erykah Badu's new music (http://theybf.com/index.php/2009/12/16/music-fab-sade-erykah-badu-kanye-west/). I blogged about attending her NYC listening set at the end of last week (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/12/11/every-man-has-his-own-special-dream.html). Now my nephew – a YBF aficionado – will know about it! LOL!

PARTIES FOR HOSTING

Ant's and my buddies Ra-Fael and rah-B threw a holiday set to thank their many industry friends for support with their publicity firm 2Rs Entertainment & Media, Inc. (www.2RSENTANDMEDIA.com). HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Our friend Ulysses Carter (who works Miss Whitney Houston's publicity) was there. MIGUEL PERDOMO - Male Supermodel - Recipient of 2009 Gillette Fusion Man of Style Award - is one of 2Rs star clients… and always a lot of fun to be around. L.A. actor Kairon John was also in the house as well as dear friend/BLEU Publisher Devon Christopher.

On another night, Ant & I got caught in the blizzard after hanging out with friend Will. He inspired an impromptu set at the Harlem brownstone of our beloved Tommie. This, along with his brilliant wife, our Emmy-award-winning friend, Mara Schiavocampo. This, after checking out our girlfriend Cy's holiday tree. It’s been most uplifting for Ant and me to be around loved ones. 

SILENT NIGHT

Before I could pull myself together from this Brittany Murphy news (Dead at 32), I uncover that sitcom icon RIP Alaina Reed Hall (Rose from 227 & Olivia from Sesame Street) passed away this weekend of breast cancer @ 65. RIP. Remember the 227 theme song? 227 Theme Song.Trying not to wait for the 3rd pop cultural shoe to drop, but in my personal life, I want to extend my condolences to my girlfriend Cristal whose father Dwight transitioned last week. Ern and I got to attend the funeral and extend our love to Cristal, her mother Sheila, and the rest of the family with whom we’ve spent lots of time (at their gorgeous getaway in the Poconos).

FA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA

The African-American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) has named “Precious” as the Best Picture of 2009.  Directed by Lee Daniels, the Lionsgate release captured a majority vote by the organization, which is comprised of African-American media professionals from across the nation. 

AAFCA 2009 Film Selections

The African-American Film Critics Association’s Top Ten Films of 2009 are as follows in order of distinction:

1.  Precious
2.  The Princess and The Frog
3.  Up In The Air
4.  The Hurt Locker
5.  This Is It
6.  American Violet
7.  Goodbye Solo
8.  Medicine for Melancholy
9.  Good Hair
10.  Up

Best Actor                               Morgan Freeman, “Invictus”

Best Actress                           Nicole Beharie, “American Violet”

Best Supporting Actress        Mo’Nique, “Precious”

Best Supporting Actor            Anthony Mackie. “The Hurt Locker”

Best Director                           Lee Daniels, “Precious”

Best Screenplay (tie) Geoffrey Fletcher, "Precious"

                                       R. Clements, R. Edwards, J. Musker, "The Princess & The Frog"

Special Achievement     Michael Jackson

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE5BD41820091215?type=filmNews

LA Times 1: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/awards/2009/12/precious-named-top-film-by-africanamerican-film-critics-association.html

LA Times 2: http://goldderby.latimes.com/awards_goldderby/2009/12/gold-derby-nuggets--1.html

Variety: http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118012755.html?categoryId=1985&cs=1

Wire Image: http://www.wireimage.com/ItemListings.aspx?igi=407786&nbc1=1

http://mije.org/richardprince/afro-picks-apology-not-unanimous

NPR Tony Cox Show: http://www.upfrontnews.org/?p=595

ALSO: My friend Cassandra Freeman just wrapped the film KINYARWANDA in Rwanda, yes Africa! Below is one of the trailers to the movie! CHECK IT OUT!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7b6nI9Xzfk 

THIS CHRISTMAS