A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

For my blog readers, you know that Chicago has been a recurring backdrop in “… the life of Riley…” since the beginning of my writing in this forum… and well before. But here’s the proof:

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/11/12/a-taste-of-chicago.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/12/17/dreams-see-us-through-to-forever-part-1.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/1/4/its-a-new-year-and-im-still-dreaming.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/1/15/-but-i-need-a-friend.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/1/27/im-a-winner-baby.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/1/27/i-am-love.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/1/28/sisters-are-doing-it-for-themselves-in-chi-town-to-a-hip-hop-beat.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/4/24/on-the-road-again-and-again-and-again.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/5/12/-are-you-forgetting-that-im-from-here-too.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/one-summer-night-in-chitown.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/chicago-without-ti-ti-can-it-be.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/6/28/something-old-something-new-something-borrowed-something-fun.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/10/22/easy-like-sunday-morning.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/12/16/extreme-makeover.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/2/12/tasty-freeze-of-chicago.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/7/29/like-i-never-left.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/11/12/one-moment-in-time-when-im-racing-with-destiny.html

Well, fate has led me back to The Windy City which has nourished me professionally and personally. There are folks here – like my Morehouse best friend Eddie – who I’ve known since college. On this trip, I stumbled into someone my whole family has known since the mid-70s. And there is a long list of associates who I respect and hold dear alongside a short list of close friends who feel like family. It’s been over a year since I’ve been available to accept a Chicago-based assignment as I spent the lion’s share of my 2009 in Atlanta and L.A. And the top of this year blessed me with home-based work in New York City. But just as those local projects wrapped up (giving me room to re-fuel and re-connect with Ant who held down the home front with his work on ‘The Wendy Williams Show’), a call for a month-and-change of work came my way a la Chicago. So, here I am. And I must say it’s been just long enough that I had no problem being displaced yet again from home. This is what the freelance world requires. From whom much is given (in the way of the freedoms that independent client-work can bring), much is required (meaning you must sometimes chase those checks wherever they are being written).  And as I always approach the challenges of being on the road with a focus on quality of life, I’m so blessed to have folks in my life who are excited to be on that ride with me.  Each and every day of my time here in Chicago was chockfull of work – from conducting interviews; field producing shoots; scripting; screening tons of tape; supervising edits; designing graphics and other concepts; etc… and I have loved every single minute of it. But after the long-in-the-tooth days are done, I commit to reconnect socially and spiritually with the aforementioned friends and family. And what a time we are having.

My Morehouse BFF Eddie & I had a great catch-up at Cheesecake Factory on Michigan Ave (www.thecheesecakefactory.com).

Speaking of Morehouse, who is the proudest uncle ever? While here in Chicago, my Savannah home girl and Spelman sister was the first to send me the news that an Atlanta Journal Constitution article in which my nephew was quoted had hit the newsstands. My nephew Herman Riley is a graduating senior from my alma mater Morehouse (Ant and I will be there to celebrate him in mid-May):  http://www.ajc.com/business/colleges-students-use-new-448364.html. The story celebrates the necessary enterprise required for this crop of students to attract work their way inside this national recession. My nephew has landed a gig as a marketing analyst in my current home of New York City where he will be working for a Fortune 500 company. I AM SO PROUD!!!

My work friends Ki-Ki, Ti-Ti, and Lesia have grown – in my heart – to sister status! So, I – of course – spent lots of time with them. It turns out that Ki-Ki and I have friends in common around whom we’ve never spent time together. Her Howard U classmate Shaniqua is a TV anchor and reporter in Seattle. I know her from the National Association of Black Journalists through former-fellow-Board member Jala with whom I’ve bonded over the years via many a career and personal high & low. And we both are STILL STANDING! We were supposed to go to Zapatista (www.zapatistacantina.com) but the line was too long. Instead, we settled on an underwhelming alternative: Utopia International Caribbean Cuisine Restaurant. And though work friend Scott (who used to work with Shaniqua) and I made the best of our catfish dish, it was the fellowship and laughter that reigned supreme at this meal. Jakki gave me my first glimpse of her son Nicholas (She’s gotten married and had a baby since I’ve last been in Chicago. WOW!). Jala showcased her newborn Phoenix Rose, a debut that I knew nothing about until this little beauty did a catwalk (via her carriage) into the restaurant. And Eddie even popped by with our Listening Experience girlfriend Althea before they went to a jazz show. After this dinner and after their show, they invited me to join them at Marche for more chatting and chewing (www.marche-chicago.com). And Miss Ti-Ti and Lesia who had just seen Tyler Perry's latest play “Madea’s One Big Happy Family” (www.tylerperry.com) – a first for Lesia – stopped by and joined us as well (You’ll recall, I saw the piece when it came to NYC a few months ago).

The next night, my Ti-Ti took me to Flatwater Restaurant (www.flatwater.us)  - smack dab on the river - which morphs into a Saturday night set with cool people, bottle service, and an awesome mix of music for the steppers out there. We enjoyed that night which segued the following day (Sunday) into a rooftop cookout at one of Downtown Chicago's fab rooftops – both inside a birthday extravaganza for one of girlfriend’s boyfriends. Her buddies became my buddies - from Brian to Alpha, and I also got reacquainted with one of Neyo's producers Askia Fountain who I met at Neyo's compound last summer in ATL while I was field and story producing "Monica: Still Standing". Afterwards, some of us went to Mercadito (www.mercaditorestaurants.com) for supper. FUN TIMES in Chi!

My 'brother friend' Chicago Carl & I finally got to hang out after I'd been here working for a week. Not sure why it took so long for us to hang out. But we made up for it. On our first hang, we went to REPUBLIC for a showcase of male and female entertainers - including one who performed - of course - Monica's current #1: "Everything to Me" (with a preamble of the JD/B. Cox power ballad "Love All Over Me"):  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqe93Bct7UU 

But of course, there's nothing like the real thing. Did you see Monica on "The Wendy Williams Show"? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeAYqxcxquQ WOW!

Ant got to say HI to she and her cousin/manager Melinda during that informative visit - including some tea on her participation as a bridesmaid in Tiny and T.I.s upcoming nuptials (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_p4xZuqaQo).

Back to Chicago: Carl – a hairstylist of note here in Chi-town – also takes care of me in the way of ensuring I’m comfortable and accommodated inside my grooming needs. Too, he want to make sure I am not left to my homesick blues (being away from Ant and all. I mean, there’s only so much Diana on YOU TUBE I can click on to cheer me up or sulk in my sadness, though it often helps:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkFj-1OR1rQ ).

Carl also makes sure I get my hair cut and manicures & pedicures (as the budget allows).  I know I'm bald, but getting my haircut when I'm on long stretches in Chicago is key a la this past blog entry from a couple of years ago: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/1/15/-but-i-need-a-friend.html And Chicago Carl always comes through - this time taking me to Derrick Sibley at TIMEOUT AT SHANNON'S (www.timeoutatshannons.com). I love the shop and the energy inside of it. The folks have lots to say about pop culture & politics. And since I’m not shy, I chimed right on in – defending Ant’s and my latest favorite Tyler Perry’s “Why Did I Get Married Too?” (www.whydidigetmarriedtoomovie.com) from the second I got in the chair… during the haircut… and after! It wasn’t everybody’s cup of tea, I understand.

On one night (after a long day of work in edit), Carl took me to PLUSH (www.plushtuscon.com). It was quite the scene as Carl’s and my mutual friend Vince (whose partner Earl is one of Tyra’s glam squad folks) surprised me per Carl’s orchestration.  But there’s one surprise that Carl didn’t even know he was choreographing. As we were enjoying our comfort food and a cocktail or two – talking to our neighboring diners General and David (fast friends), one of Carl’s clients Tameka came in along with a group of ladies and her husband. None of us counted on her husband Daniel knowing me, but he did and guess from where and when? His family The Weathersbys and my family – The Rileys – were stationed together in San Bernadino, CA at Norton Air Force Base in the mid-to-late ‘70s. And though we’ve not seen each other since 1978 when my father got re-assigned to Warner Robbins Air Force Base near he and my mom’s childhood home in Savannah, Georgia. Family-to-family (mostly parents-to-parents), we’ve all stayed in touch (a la annual Christmas cards), but the kids really haven’t until FACEBOOK brought many of us back together over the last year. So much so, we’ve seen our ‘adult’ selves in many a FACEBOOK picture. And that is how he recognized me… and WHAT A GREAT REUNION IT WAS! SMALL WORLD, shrinking everyday! (Ironically, I lost my camera again – a sickness I have:  http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/26/its-good-to-be-black.html and http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/26/one-lost-camera-dont-stop-no-blog-entry.html - inclusive of the pix I took of Daniel, Tameka, and me; fortunately, it was in the lost-and-found at PLUSH when I went back the following day).

On another evening, Itika took me to a screening of Russell Crowe’s latest film “Robin Hood” (www.robinhoodthemovie.com). Not really my genre of film, but a date with Itika wins every time – especially when we went to join her friends Su, Reza, and others for cocktails at The Trump International Hotel & Tower's Rebar (www.trumpchicagohotel.com). This crew and I got along splendidly and I hope to see them soon as they promised to take me to dinner – limo service to boot. Stay tuned.

Houston’s Restaurant is Ant’s and my favorite. After it left Downtown Chicago, I took on J. Alexander as a close 2^nd. So, Chicago Carl chauffeured me to my staple: prime rib, baked potato, those tasty croissants, and a kir royale the other night! Perfect Friday meal before I got a good night of shut eye after a long day and week.

Though I had to work a little the next day (Saturday), I segued to my Ki-Ki's Chicago home to wrap my brain around the reality that she is somebody's mother and wife. Her kid Nicholas is 1 year old. And I got the luxury of celebrating his 1st birthday with the little man... and his parents - MRS. Jakki and hubby Duane. WHAT A BLESSING! Here Nicholas Ali poses with his mother (right) and her work friend (and mine) Sharvo. Of course, the lovely Miss Ti-Ti had to get in the picture (to the left... to the left...). And at a point, he gave his Uncle Rollo and Auntee Peaches some shine ( That’s Itika and me. Inside joke! LOL!). This, before opening his gifts. He got lots and lots of clothes a la Polo, Puma, etc. as he comes from the stock of label-aficionados (for sure, his mother. SMILE!). But I got him a big ol’ dog from the Disney store. He also is getting ready to get his literacy on with some of the classics – including Dr. Seuss’ “Cat in the Hat” and “Green Eggs and Ham”. GREAT TIMES as the adults enjoyed Ki-Ki’s pasta with fresh pesto along with a well-appointed spread of elegant-yet-hearty appetizers! I joked (kinda) that I wanted some fried chicken wings and potato salad as I am a simple boy with a simple palate from Savannah, Georgia. Her husband Duane echoed my sentiment – proving ourselves kindred as we were meeting for the first time. As a make good, he promises me some fried catfish on a return visit. HEY! LOL!

After a Sunday of screening tape, Chi Carl got me out to play. We did a drive by This Is It hair salon on the West Side to see Pierre & Jeffrey - friends of Carl who I've had the chance to hang out with before in Chicago; then, soul food at MacArthur's; then, cocktails at Kit Kat; followed by Brando's with the boyz - including Vince, Mike, and John. Then, a P.S. at Tantrum to say HI to Miss Jesse and her gal pal D.

Morehouse BFF Eddie & I got some more time in and had late supper at Houston's cousin Bandera (www.hillstone.com). While there, industry buddy and favorite photo-op partner Jensen Atwood popped over to my table to say HI (www.jensenatwood.com/)! He’s always such a pleasure. You know, I had a chance to interview him several years back at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention (www.nabj.org) as he and Patrik-Ian Polk promoted the LOGO show (and big screen sequel)  “Noah’s Arc”. He plays Wade, the love interest of the series’ namesake (www.logotv.com/shows/dyn/noahs_arc/series.jhtml). Since our interview, which he says was one of the best he’s done, he always enthusiastically receives me. In this case, when he saw me, he rushed over to Eddie’s and my table. I found out that he was in town – making an appearance at Club Circuit (www.circuitclub.com) a couple of nights prior. In fact, Itika (Ti-Ti) and Chicago Carl were supposed to take me to that spot on Saturday without my knowing it was linked to Jensen. Ultimately, we did not make it. But at least I got to see him at dinner. He updated me on all that’s going on in his impressive career (http://www.youtube.com/user/TheJensenAtwood) – including an upcoming Coors Light commercial and he’s featured in Toni Braxton’s “Hands Tied” video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6HVKXK8G70. GO JENSEN, GO! Afterwards, Eddie tossed me over to Chi Carl. They coincidentally went to high school together (Whitney Young). Chi Carl asked me to join him at REPUBLIC again for an encore presentation of dragiliciousness. More 'draggy' than 'licious' but what fun Chi Carl and I ALWAYS have. No shortage of laughter and ki-ki-ing when we're together! LOL! And they opened with Diana's "I'm Coming Out"! Always a BLAST!

AMIDST my time in CHICAGO, I had a quick assignment in L.A. Now, you know I made the best of my time there last year; even though, I really wasn’t the happiest while there:

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/11/17/la-proved-too-much-for-the-man.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/10/12/divas-simply-singing-more.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/10/5/you-keep-praying-saying-there-must-be-a-better-way.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/9/29/colored-people-on.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

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/9/8/all-about-love-in-la.html

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/2009/8/24/do-you-get-what-youre-hoping-for.html

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/6/23/hes-hoppin-it-to-hollywood.html

But my stay at the Huntley Santa Monica (www.thehuntleyhotel.com) provided a better look than my last temp digs at an Extended Stay in Gardena, CA – sharp contrast to The Crescent Beverly Hills where I was first put up (www.crescentbh.com). This, though I did have some check-in snafus at The Huntley. And that produced a lovely, complimentary lunch of crispy-skin salmon and sauteed spinach at The Penthouse Restaurant overlooking the beach and the mountains. Quite beautiful! If I’d landed earlier, I might have snagged a cool social experience as Lisa Raye's TV-ONE reality show (www.tvoneonline.com) launch party was popping off at The Standard (www.standardhotels.com).  Shout out to my Spelman sister Tosha who helped put it on! I did get to hang with a few of my L.A. peeps for an after after set before turning in and conducting my interview in Santa Monica – all before hopping on a flight back to to Chicago.

My project wraps near the top of May. But I head back to NYC this weekend. I’ll do some work from home on this project while celebrating Ant’s birthday. We've long-planned this exciting weekend. Lots in store – from karaoke to a sneak-peek of “Fences” on Broadway with Denzel Washington (www.walktallgirlproductions.com/). Then, there's the King Tut exhibit at Discovery Times Square Expo (www.discoverytsx.com/exhibitions/kingtut). Stay tuned for that report.

 SHOUT OUTS:

• My cousin Kea is officially IN THE NAVY… and now stationed with her husband in San Diego. SO PROUD OF HER and all she’s accomplishing on this AWESOME JOURNEY! GOD BLESS YOU and ROCK, CUZ!

• CHECK OUT THESE SITES FROM MY BOY TOYCE (left)

1. www.VIPlister.com  which features topical information such as Entertainment, Fashion, Grooming, Fitness, Travel, Dining and special features for the SGL audience.
2. www.ClubVIPlister.com  which feature National SGL Nightlife Listings, Social Networking and much more.

• My boy RON DONOVAN continues to do his thing in the shoe department. He was in ATL recently and continues to show his wares – from segments I’ve hosted to ESSENCE, THE VIEW, and TODAY (www.rondonfoot.com).
• My girl Renee E. Warren (of Noelle-Elaine fame – www.noelle-elaine.com - right in pic below) has taken on a new venture BlackTV247 News. It offers both a 10 minute newscast and a 3 minute news brief on a daily basis, Monday through Friday and reporting on the top stories and events, featuring segments covering national and international news, business, politics, technology, entertainment and sports, all specific to the black community. To maximize viewing convenience, viewers have constant access to the BlackTV247 News archives and the broad range of relevant news stories identified by the BlackTV247 News editorial team on a daily basis. WATCH NOW: WWW.BLACKTV247NEWS.COM

• So I hear that Delores (AKA Button) – the wife of  my dear friend and colleague Keith Walker (www.mediaprocess.com) – has been a "closet" artist for about nine years.  She paints on canvas by way of acrylic & mixed media. Her work has been on display at Gallery Guishard in two separate art shows with great success.
•  Delores is now one of Chicago's best up & coming artists. And she will be premiering her work at the Prairie Avenue Gallery May 8, 2010 (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Chicago-IL/Prairie-Avenue-Gallery/76629936938?v=wall). Photographer Preston Thomas will also be showing his provocative B&W photography. Fun, music, drinks and amazing art work awaits you!  
  For more information and to RSVP, go to http://nappycafe.com/getrandom/ . CONGRATS, BUTTON!!!!

• You folks know of all the work I do with LIVE OUT LOUD – the nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting LGBT youth to leaders in the LGBT community through events and programs at area schools and universities (www.liveoutloud.info). I have spoken in many NYC-area high schools over the years… and always participate and support (if not attend) the annual fundraiser. Well, I’m on the host committee (though from afar this year), which means I’ve made my financial commitment. And I want to invite you to join me in contributing to the annual Young Trail Blazers Gala which takes place Monday, April 26. It’s always lots of fun; there’s a great silent auction; and you can see the students who benefit from the fundraising accept their scholarship awards. You can order tickets here: http://www.liveoutloud.info/gala_2010.html.
• MESSAGE FROM MY FRIEND MICHAEL K. WATTS

Donation Link:  http://aidswalknewyork2010.kintera.org/michaelkwatts

Please sponsor me for AIDS Walk New York!

Dear Friend,

I have registered for AIDS Walk New York and am very excited about the event! I want to do as much as I can to make a difference in the lives of people living with HIV and AIDS. I have set an ambitious fundraising goal and I need your help in order to reach it!

Link to my personal donation page:  http://aidswalknewyork2010.kintera.org/michaelkwatts

AIDS Walk New York, the world’s largest AIDS fundraising event, benefits GMHC and over 30 other tri-state area AIDS service organizations. GMHC is the nation’s oldest and most comprehensive AIDS service organization, serving approximately 15,000 people living with HIV and AIDS and their families each year, and countless more through its prevention and advocacy work locally and nationally.

Even though there has been success with drug treatments that are prolonging some people's lives, they don't work for everyone. These treatments can also take their toll physically, and for many cause awful side-effects. I am also concerned that so many young people in New York City are getting infected. There is a dire need for comprehensive prevention programs and services that target youth in their language. And above all, there is still no cure in sight.

I would really appreciate your help. Please sponsor me for AIDS Walk New York. Just click on the link below to visit my personal fundraising Web page. It’s fast, easy, and safe to make a donation online with a credit card, debit card, or paypal! After making your donation, you may be able to double your donation with a matching gift! Please consult your human resources department, or use the matching gift search engine on the AIDS Walk New York website, to find out if your company has a matching gift program!

Thank you for supporting AIDS Walk New York and for helping to put an end to this epidemic.

Much Love,
Michael K. Watts

Follow This Link to visit my personal web page and help me in my efforts to support AIDS Walk New York

MAXWELL’S “THIS WOMAN’S WORK”

My karaoke spin on Maxwell’s “This Woman’s Work”: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/video/video.php?v=390384328736&ref=mf Standing on Maxwell’s shoulders alone is heavy, but as evidenced by TV ONE “UNSUNG”s take on Sylvester’s life (http://www.tvoneonline.com/), my falsetto is also standing on big shoulder (pads)! LOL! Shout out to the strong falsettos out there – including Earth, Wind, & Fire's Phillip Bailey and The Temptations’ Eddie Kendricks. I recently got to echo Kendricks' style when my Tony-award-winning friend LaChanze ambushed me with the mic on she and Greg Generet’s recent spin on “Just My Imagination” - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2010/3/15/easy-breezy-george-and-weezy.html).

BIRTHDAY GIRLS AND BOY

Consider it a birthday serenade, of sorts. Miss Ross recently celebrated another year of fierceness and fabulousness. But the big gift is ours as concert tickets have been cleared to see my favorite, 66-year-young diva Diana at Radio City Music Hall on May 19^th and – a week and change later – in Chicago, courtesy of my earth angel Sally Lou.  This “More Today Than Yesterday” tour promises lots of comfort and joy for me in May (http://www.facebook.com/#!/DianaRoss?ref=search&sid=662073736.1095004508..1). But there are also birthday shout outs due to our girlfriend Cy whose Big 3-0 fete Ant and I weren’t able to make. Still, we absolutely adore our diva girlfriend who is a Designer/Social Entrepreneur/Sustainable Lifestyle Branding Guru EXTRAORDINAIRE (http://www.vivedesignhaus.com/). We were, however, able to get out – in the 11^th hour for our other Aries birthday girl Dr. Shirley Madhere – plastic surgeon with the most (http://www.thenewaesthete.com/). She emailed us at 12 noon to show up at her last-minute brainchild of a celebration at the well-appointed, private club Norwood (www.norwoodclub.com/). And what a set it was as I uncovered that we have more mutuals in common than we knew about – including: “Why Did I Get Married Too?”s Malik Yoba; Yoki Brown (of Brandy's 'Full Moon' video notoriety - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxC1XZDghTc&feature=related); our girlfriend, good dentist Dr. Ericka; and my Lisa Goodnight's college mate Mica who inspired Ant and me to karaoke afterwards. She owns an anti-aging spa business which she is growing as it is still in the infant stages: www.myspatique.com, but look out: With Mica behind it, it promises to be a big success. While at our Dr. Shirley’s set, I got to reiterate to Malik - a regular reader of my blog 'A Day in the Life of Riley' - how great he is in "Why Did I Get Married Too?” Hopefully you have seen the film by now. Ant and I went a third time on our new favorite film’s opening night with Ern, Charlie T, and Danielle. AUDIENCES seem to be LOVING it… and are quite SHOCKED at several reversals Tyler Perry incorporated into the film to off-set critiques of being predictable and cliché. And as I shouted out Miss Aretha Franklin who too recently celebrated a birthday (Ant and I attended her BDAY set last year in Detroit: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/3/26/people-say-im-the-life-of-the-party.html), and I just uncovered that “Secret Trois”, the trio Ant and I secured for Ms. Franklin’s party last year, shouted us out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKWh3Mu3m34. This, for arranging their performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ2385evPmY.   And another shout out to Joe Ballon who too celebrated a birthday in March. He's Ant's colleague at 'The Wendy Williams Show' and is just an all-around, swell dude. And he and I have a love for all things 'Black sitcoms' in common. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOE! 

 BLEU BLOOM

Ant and I went to the BLOOM Spring Party on invite from my friend Clarence Haynes (I teased it in last week’s blog entry: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2010/3/24/nothing.html). It was quite festive – dancing, cocktails, African drums, World music remixes, etc! Then, Ant and I went to BLEU's Beautiful People night - Sunday - at 7 BELOW 0 in Harlem. Turns out Ant and I were named to the Winter 2010 issue of BLEU Magazine's BLEU LIST! Total honor! Shout out to BLEU Publisher De’Von Christopher for the LOVE (www.bleulife.com)!

TEZA

My girl Loren - who collabo'd with me on my recent BET projects - co-edited this critically-acclaimed film TEZA for which the Dwyer Cultural Center in Harlem hosted a launch. Danny Glover endorses TEZA and hosted the opening night alongside TEZA’s director Haile Gerima ("Sankofa"). It’s currently showing in NYC at Lincoln Plaza Cinemas and other select movie houses nationwide (www.TezaTheMovie.com). CONGRATS LOREN!

SHOUT OUTS

• ·        So my good girlfriend Jakki’s stepdaughter Kamari has just started a new blog site called "Save Safe Sex" (www.savesafesex.webs.com) and FACEBOOK: www.Facebook.com/kamaririchardson. And her blog: www.krichy15.blogspot.com. She has started a fan page on Facebook called “Let’s Talk Sex...Blog In!! Her mission is to teach everyone from the young ages of 11 to seniors at 85 about saving safe sex. She felt that if she just stuck to the basics and did a blog on Reality TV or Celebs, it wouldn't have made a mark of any importance in the lives of everyone. For Kamari, she feels that this is important because she trusts that her story and some of its challenges must parallel other girls around the world and she just wants to do her part in helping that not be the story of our future girls.
• ·        My Morehouse brother Maurice McRae is currently at Baltimore’s Centerstage, set to open in "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom", featuring a talented cast including diva E. Faye Butler. Maurice is playing the role of Levee originated by Charles Dutton. Then, they are in Philadelphia. For Baltimore:  www.centerstage.org/Default.aspx?alias=www.centerstage.org/marainey. For Philly: www.philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/2010/marainey.html And for more on Maurice: www.mauricemcrae.com.

HAPPY EASTER DAY!

On this day, Ant and I celebrated a holiday meal with Ern, Danielle, her husband Bernard, and our girlfriend Tina. A couple of years ago, Ant, Ern, Danielle, and I did the same location - Delta soul food restaurant in New Brunswick, NJ near Rutgers University. Now, I’m packing for a multi-week stint in Chicago (with a quick stop in L.A.). With Spring in BLOOM, I’m thrilled and blessed that some work has accompanied it. And though I am still a work-in-progress on a journey that is chockful of twists and turns, I am so GRATEFUL to have so much LOVE and LIGHT around me. Today, as we all broke bread, fellowshipped, and acknowledged the reason for the season, I was reminded how GOOD GOD IS. And it is HE who sustains me while on this ride called LIFE.  

EASY, BREEZY, GEORGE AND WEEZY!!!!”

I’m sad to see “Ugly Betty” go in five more episodes, but Willy aka Wilhelmina aka Wanda helped me put it in perspective as she aimed to display her street credibility to an old boyfriend (Brian Stokes Mitchell) who knew her when she was just a regular girl. She assured him she was ‘…easy, breezy, George and Weezy!!!!’ – one of the last gut-wrenching laughs Ant and I will have from one of our favorite little shows.

MORE TODAY THAN YESTERDAY

That said, Miss Ross is hitting the road again.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaZOKEDuNd8

And you know Ant & I will be there. She’ll return to her home away from home, the stage, this summer with a 17-city U-S tour titled “MORE TODAY THAN YESTERDAY”. When last she toured in 2007, Ant and I saw her several times between New York City and New Jersey. Then, in 2008, she headlined DIVAS WITH HEART. She closed out a charitable night featuring fellow DIVAS Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and Chaka Khan. As many of us fans are excited about a new album, clearly we’re not moping about in the meantime because MISS ROSS LIVE is magical. So, greatest hits will do… and we hear she will be pulling out all the stops with breathtaking costumes and stage designs, along with a live string and horn section. The must see show kicks off in Boston, MA on May 15th, the tour runs thru June 12th. I know I will see her at RADIO CITY on May 19^th… and I may pop back down to Red Bank, NJ or Atlantic City to check her out as well. As her bio reminds us, Diana Ross has had a profound influence on American popular culture and has become an icon in the entertainment industry. She is an Academy Award nominated actress for her unforgettable role as Billie Holiday in Lady Sings The Blues, a Tony and Golden Globe winner, a bestselling author, winner of 8 American Music Awards and a recipient of The Kennedy Center Honors. Her reputation as a woman of great style and beauty has put her on the covers of hundreds of magazines. Ms. Ross has sold over 100 million records and recorded 18 #1 hits. Her music became the sound of young America in the ‘60s soon after she signed with Motown Records in 1961 with The Supremes. She embarked on her extraordinary solo career in 1970, and has not stopped since. Diana Ross sings the soundtrack of our lives, a true music legend. To get breaking news, latest tour information and exclusive content, become a fan of Diana Ross’ official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/dianaross).

ALMIGHTY RECORDS: WE LOVE DIANA ROSS

Though not a new album, it feels fresh. “WE LOVE DIANA ROSS” by Almighty Records is the new digital album featuring brand new remixes of ALL THINGS DANCEABLE… and DIANA! This project has been five years in the making. It was originally planned to be released by Universal. But now, it’s available on-line (http://www.almightyrecords.com/product/ALMYDD071/). This digital collection is overflowing with exclusives, such as the brand new mixes of ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’, 'Love Hangover' and ‘The Boss’, plus first time airings of ‘Remember Me’, ‘Reach Out And Touch’ and ‘I’m Still Waiting’, plus the sensational Almighty 'In The Mix' which includes classic titles: Love Hangover; Upside Down; I'm Coming Out; I'm Still Waiting; Ain't No Mountain High Enough; The Boss; Remember Me; I Thought It Took A Little Time; No-One Gets The Prize; Reach Out And Touch; Touch Me In The Morning; Lovin', Livin' And Givin.

DREAMGIRLS: SOMEDAY WE’LL BE TOGETHER

Meanwhile, YOU HEARD? The original Dreamgirls - Sheryl Lee Ralph, Loretta Devine, and Jennifer Holliday were in attendance at the L.A. premiere of the staged musical 'Dreamgirls' road tour that launched here in NYC at The Apollo. I hear they had their own special moment during the finale song. Jennifer Holliday reportedly reached out and grabbed the hands of Sheryl and Loretta... and it was one more moment for Deena, Lorrell, and Effie - 29 years later! DREAMGIRLS LIVES! I LIVE! WE ALL LIVE!

CAN WE TALK????????

I co-hosted a pilot "tvQ" a few years back. It was a 'queer eye' meets 'the view'. It had lots of promise and got lots of press, but after a year of being retained, we didn't get picked up. But it gave me the chance to meet Michael Musto who was one of the co-hosts along w/Simon Doonan and others (Go 9:00 in on this link for an excerpt: http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/PatrickGeneralReel.wmv and I wrote something about it in a blog entry a couple of years ago: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/8/5/a-black-person.html). Well, my favorite Joan Rivers hosted a FAB fete at the 230 Fifth Avenue penthouse to toast Michael's 25 years at 'The Village Voice".  Ant, Nichole, Aleeka, and I had a ball. We ran into RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Sahara (in blue); Robert Verdi; and a host of others. REALLY GOOD NIGHT!

“RESPECT THE JUX”

Marketing strategist & guru Jacquie Lee invited Ant and me to Phillipe Chow to meet her client, author Frank Matthews. His upcoming Simon & Schuster release is titled "Respect The Jux". This, after meeting a couple of new Aussie friends at Coppersmith's - Sue & Steve - for an aperitif.  Stay tuned for more on Frank as his book readies for the marketplace.

PRECIOUS: A DISCUSSION OF HOLLYWOOD’S IMAGE OF THE BLACK WOMAN

The Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists invited me to sit on its "Monitoring Hollywood II - Precious: A Discussion on Hollywood's Image of The Black Woman" panel. It included moderator Patty Jackson; filmmaker Rel Dowdell; radio diva Golden Girl; columnist Annette John-Hall; 'Minority Reporter' Khalid Patterson; and fashion/beauty journalist (and my friend) Cheryl Wadlington. I also got to see my L.A. buddy-by-way-of-Philly Anthony Henderson. Happy to call him new friend (Mr. Jason too!).  We had lots of great times during my L.A. stint. Also, it was great to see so many of my NABJ sisters - including Amy Simmons. At about 5:43, you can see an excerpt of my commentary on the panel: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/video/video.php?v=106339826059527&ref=nf I LOVE PHILLY!

SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK

Ant and I saw Sweet Honey In The Rock this evening at The Met. Awesome show. Afterwards, Ant and I ran into the great KiKi Shepard. You should remember her from “Showtime Returns To The Apollo”. It was good to see her again as I got to hang out with her at her Sickle Cell bowling benefit in L.A. where my friends Scott and Tony took me one night. She is a friend – dating back to  their Howard University time – of group member Carol Maillar. KiKi talked Marcia, Ant, and me into going to Carol’s birthday party at Harlem's MOJO (www.mojo-harlem.com). And what a hoot she was - putting Ant up for judging as if at The Apollo. I got the chance to interview Carol when I was producing the BET Black History Month campaign. She said some wonderful things during our sit-down chat. Its owner Mounir Jabrane proved ever the host. You may recognize him from an American Express commercial with Epatha Merkerson (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_b2_hNNVe88). And also in the house: Also in the house: My Marcia Pendelton. And my own Ki-Ki, Jackie Williams who is looking sexy and slinky these days. She's in production and featured as an actor in a commercial for a tooth pain product.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, OWEN ANGELO

My Godson Owen Angelo's birthday party was SO MUCH FUN! And he had a BLAST! Ant & I enjoyed spending time with him, his parents - our friends Owen & Sandy, and their friends & family! And I karaoke'd all night long! LOL! Happy Birthday, Owen Angelo!!!!

“… AND THE OSCAR GOES TO…”

Ant, Ern, & I attended a couple of Oscar viewing parties (Brooklyn & Harlem).    Word had it LA ROSS was gonna appear on the show, which would have been a welcome return given her many appearances on the Academy Awards. BEFORE B (or HALLE B), THERE WAS D... and after her nomination for Best Actress in "Lady Sings The Blues" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFstpIKW7A4), she became quite the Oscar darling - from her "Theme From Mahogany ('Do You Know...')" performance via satellite from Amsterdam a couple of years later. Then, co-hosting and presenting in '78 and '79 to performing several more times in the '80s and '90s (even co-hosting in '85, the year that she sang Stevie Wonder's "I Just Called To Say I Love You" from "The Woman In Red"). Some selects that are currently on YOU TUBE - including this one where Ross reflects on that heavy and exhilarating time (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YA22pXIf1I):

1980/MJ & DR -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORPmEg4MYeI

1982/DIANA ROSS & LIONEL RICHIE on their OSCAR NOM'd "ENDLESS LOVE" -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ewf0TnM4eKo

1985/SINGING STEVIE'S OSCAR NOM'd "I JUST CALLED TO SAY I LOVE YOU" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_aUPf-Rdk0

1992/SINGING "OVER THE RAINBOW" – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N69rO3fRitc

Well, it turns out Miss Ross wasn’t in the Oscar house after all. But that didn’t stop the party.  Ant, Ern, and I did two sets: Jacque Reid's intimate set at Rustik in Brooklyn featured karaoke during commercials (I serenaded the room with Maxwell's "This Woman's Work", dedicating it to Jacque and Mo'Nique who'd just ...snagged her prize in the previous segment). After my performance, the fellas and I high-tailed it to Harlem for an Oscar party hosted by our best girlfriend Mara Schiavocampo and our best girlfriend's hubby Tommie.

 “INDEPENDENT SOURCES”

For those of you who don't have CUNY-TV, here's a link of "Independent Sources" on which I am featured in a Johnson Publishing profile (EBONY/JET money woes). The piece starts at 2:33 and I am excerpted a couple of times between 4:08 & 5:28. This, before it was reported that Ebony Fashion Fair will continue its hiatus (citing the recent death of its founder Eunice Johnson Rice). http://www.cuny.tv/series/sources/listen.lasso?-database=CUNYPROG&-response=detail2.lasso&-table=webprogdetail2&-sortField=TapeDate&-sortOrder=descending&-op=eq&SeriesTitle=Independent%20Sources&-op=neq&Real_av=%3d%3d&-op=lte&TapeDate=12%2f31%2f2010&-op=gte&TapeDate=1%2f1%2f2010&-maxRecords=1&-skipRecords=1&-search

IT’S THE WEEKEND, BABY!!!!!

Ant and I just had a lovely weekend of connection and rejuvenation – in part because it was his pay day and furthermore because a long-standing check from services already rendered FINALLY came, all of this despite the rain. From a Friday night tasting hosted by Ant’s friend Nova ("Saucy Solutions by Nova") - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Saucy-Solutions/272235603144?v=info. And what a tasty inventory – from hot to mild to sweet AND savory, Nova offered up cheesy dips; succulent BBQ sauces; and other special recipes including Bad Girl Bolognese and Fabulous Formaggio. Check her out. Afterwards, Ant and I went to have a light meal at Heartland Brewery with Manivone. This, before going to Club 57 to see Kelis perform: http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=k-K_bKQtUsI&feature=player_ embedded#.  We also hung out in Brookllyn and did a round of lite bites from Red Hook/Brooklyn's Sugar Lounge along with more karaoke at One 7 in Chelsea.

“JUST MY IMAGINATION” – A REALITY WITH LACHANZE & GREG GENERET

Ant & I honored our girlfriend LaChanze and friend Gregory Generet's invite to see them perform at Joe's Pub  (SOLD OUT). It was a GREAT show that highlighted these two stellar vocalists’ chemistry when sharing a stage.

Dear friend LaChanze walked her six-inch Valentino pumps off the stage and up to me to sing.

Yes, she did hand me that microphone for the chorus of The Temptations' "Just My Imagination".

I got a roar of approval from the sold-out audience - including Greg's wife Tamara Tunie (HAPPY BDAY!);

Star Jones; Lynn Whitfield; 'The Wiz' Tony-award-winning legend George Faison; and a host of others.

 Several of the folks joined LaChanze's sister Michelle, Ant, and I at Indochine for an after set. And we always have such a good time. This time was no exception.

The set list was as follows:

“It Takes Two” – duet

“One Less Bell To Answer” – LaChanze

“Nature Boy” – Greg

“Once I Fall in Love” – Greg

“Route 66” – duet

“To Sir With Love” – LaChanze

“Happy birthday” – duet

“Imagination” – Greg

“Just My Imagination” – duet*

“All of Me” – duet

Encore: BLUES FINALE – duet

LaChanze excited me with the news she’d be returning to her role as Aunt Em and Glenda The Good Witch in the soon-Broadway-run of “The Wiz”. Since I was in L.A. and missed the short run of it last summer, I am EXCITED to see the show again. By the way, check out LaChanze’s new children’s book “Little Diva” which will soon have a companion video with the title song that LaChanze penned. Stay tuned…

… AND SPRING FORWARD!

I figured I better download you on my 2010 so far as it has been on and popping. THANKS MARCIA for my TIMELY 2010 AFFIRMATIONS (as author'd - I understand - by Florence Scovel-Schin's "The Game of Life"): "GOD IS MY UNFAILING SUPPLY. I RECEIVE LARGE SUMS OF MONEY QUICKLY AND IN PERFECT WAYS!"..."I HAVE A WONDERFUL SERVICE IN A WONDERFUL WAY. I GIVE A WONDERFUL SERVICE FOR A WONDERFUL PAY"..."THY WILL BE DONE. THIS IS A DAY OF COMPLETION. MIRACLE SHALL FOLLOW MIRACLE AND WONDERS WILL NEVER CEASE!" It's ON!

Came into the New Year without Ant as he was still in Denver while I was back home from Savannah in Jersey. But my ride-or-die Ern was free. We hung out at the home of Queenie - a friend of he and Kimberly. Also, Ern and I got another set in at his real estate compadre Cindy's lovely place. Food, fun, and fellowship! What better way to come into 2010!

The next day, Ern, Kim, and I trekked up to The Poconos. We spent quality New-Year's-Day time with our girlfriend Cristal and her mom Sheila. They were hosting a special outing of dinner and cards. Awesome time! I got some sad news that one of our classic, soul food restaurants The Pink Tea Cup (in the Village) was closing... and it is now gone. My cousin-by-marriage Vincent was the longstanding manager there. I will miss The Pink Tea Cup.

At the top of January, I got two, month-long assignments from BET to field produce/write/edit BET's Black History Month campaign and to produce tribute videos for The American Foundation for the University of the West Indies. Working under the Creative Direction of Michaela angela Davis and my Savannah homeboy Maurice Marable (Director), it was a great opportunity. I interviewed a number of celebs at BET Honors which taped in D.C. I chatted up Tischina Arnold, Trey Songz, Ryan Leslie, Jasmyne Sullivan, Gabrielle Union, and a host of others. Ran into my Morehouse brother Khari Simmons, long-standing bass player for India.Arie and son of BET Honors recipient Dr. Ruth Simmons (Brown University President). Ran into dear friends Terri and Alvin Bowles. Always good to see them! Here I pose with one of our First Lady Michelle Obama's hairstylists Johnny Wright.

Also in D.C., we shot with the Howard University band and many of its students and some Duke Ellington School of the Arts students. My Savannah homeboy James Davis (with whom I also went to high school) came by to say HI... and provide me more laughter than a little bit with our reflections of the way life used to be (Oh, life was so simple and funny then! LOL!). I LOVE JAY! He's a Howard grad and teacher in D.C. After the shoot, we tried to eat at The World Famous Florida Ave Grill (but it was closed). Instead, my Brian and Kelli came and took me to dinner before my train back to NJ. We ate at Union Station.

While in New York City, we shot some awesome folks - including Tony-award-winning George Faison, Vy Higginsen (of "Mama I Want to Sing" fame), and Spoonbread's Norma Jean Darden.Also, we captured the talents of "Precious" Gabby's mother Alice who sings gospel-tinged soul in the subways of NYC. Too, I've done some spot assignments from main clients and new clients (including a recent shoot in D.C.). And in the wake of the BET project, I'm going to Miami to interview folks on the red carpet at its telethon for Haiti this weekend.

And I am still pushing the spot on-camera work. Most recently, my pop culture analysis was included in a piece that ran on MSNBC at the top of the year (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pYKZBjEx40). Also, I am featured in an Ebony Fashion Fair profile on CUNY-TVs "Independent Sources" in February. And recently got to host a "The Frog & The Princess" preview with Anika Noni-Rose in Tampa for NABJ (http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/NABJDisneyMagic.wmv). Also, I was asked to weigh in on the use of the term "Negro" in the census (www.thegrio.com). My full reply: Wilona from "Good Times" would check "negro" (circa 1978). LOL! Well, if the census form authors are going to go so far as to include an the archaic term "negro", why not put "colored" on there... just in case someone hadn't graduated from that word usage. I'm just saying... LOL! (I didn't know. Not sure I care. But thinking more thoughtfully about it, it seems that perhaps the census folks want to be as comprehensive and inclusive as possible, hence my joke above about the "coloreds"). The piece that ran: http://www.thegrio.com/2010/01/the-word-negro-in-2010-census-form-offends-some-blacks.php.

* And singing has always been a sidelight (http://216.117.188.141/rileyshowforkodjoe.wmv).
You'll recall, I recently got thrown into a stretch to sing Diana Ross' "The Boss" for its composers Ashford & Simpson at Gospel Uptown. Didn't quite land in the wake of the spontaneity but I still consider it an AWESOME highlight: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbI1qEM_k8k. Ashford & Simpson's enthusiasm (along with crowd) kept me going. SMILE! Stay tuned for more intimate evenings of song... from me. I'm booking some dates for the Spring now.

OUT AND ABOUT * Ant and I always enjoy our karaoke. On this night, we hung out with our friend Cathy on her birthday. She and her crew of 'real housewives of NJ' brought the FUN!

* Far left is Goodman from the legendary Ray, Goodman, and Brown. Next to him is legendary Vaughan Harper of 'Quiet Storm' fame. This too was at Harlem's Gospel Uptown on the day I interviewed several folks for the BET Black History Month campaign!

* Ant and I have spent some fun nights with his 'Wendy' co-workers - from Candice to Merrell to D'Angelo. Candice's birthday just passed and we toasted her accordingly. Merrell had us over to watch "RuPaul's Drag Race".

* Ant and I recently got to see my Spelman sister Bridget Bland ("Harlem Heights") at her cousin and castmate Brianna's purse party at the Maritime Hotel in NYC. This is the line's one year anniversary: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/2/2/we-will-find-a-way.html. Also in attendance: Ant's buddy Mike (Aaron Blaze) and Derrick Briggs along with another of Ant's 'Wendy' co-workers Talia. And a host of other beautiful people were in the house. Also there: my dear friend Kevin-Anthony who booked me to sing for Ashford & Simpson (We're supposed to do another for Haiti soon). After Brianna's purse party, we went to BBQ and I ran into my little Spelman sister (now Columbia U masters candidate) Janelle. So good to see her: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/8/12/this-dream-is-for-all-of-us-this-one-can-be-real.html.

* My friend and Morehouse brother Michael K. Watts surprised me with two of my fav Morehouse brothers Mario and Devon at Tyler Perry's "Madea's Big Happy Family". We had a blast! As I've written, Devon is an actor/singer in his own right. He and I (and Michael) did our own take of 'Gospel play' stage work in "Martin" - a show that used to run annually out of Morehouse's King Chapel. In the piece, I was Martin Luther King Jones and got to sing a wonderful song at the end of the play with music: "Walking In Strange And New Places". In recent years, Devon and I uncovered that we are kindred in the ways of music, divas, and the 70s. Miss Ross and DREAMGIRLS reign SUPREME as our collective muses go. Also, it was fun to see my Spelman sister Bridget Bland and one of Carl Nelson's Associates from his event planning firm Diante... and with Tyler Perry's success in TV and film, it's interesting to see the cross section of demographics in attendance at his staged plays - the first genre he tackled.

* Our theatre marketing diva Marcia Pendelton (Next up: FENCES w/Denzel) invited Ant and me out for an awesome dinner at Gospel Uptown in Harlem. First time eating at the restaurant in the wake of having performed and attended a show or two. Yum!

RANDOMS: I stumbled into some shows I hadn't seen in a minute. On-line, I found myself catching up on some shows I hadn't seen - including Oscar nominee Mo'Nique's show along with new web-i-sode "Buppies" by Tatyana Ali, who is also co-starring in a Martin Lawrence-produced sitcom on TV One's first orginal, scripted program: "Love That Girl".

Also, I stumbled into a marathon of "South Central" (remember that?) with Larenz Tate and Jennifer Lopez. Had never seen it in the '90s. I enjoyed it. Even saw some stars I got to know since - including Marva Hicks; Tasha Scott; and Shar Jackson (who would go on to do "Moesha").

REMAKES: So, an expanded re-release of Diana Ross' hit album "Touch Me In The Morning" is out along with a 25th anniversary edition of Whtiney Houston's debut album. Also, some new folks got together to re-record "We Are The World" (for Haiti). Moreover, there's a cool book I read over the holiday: "Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Story behind the Song - The Exclusive Personal Stories behind 101 of Your Favorite Songs".

COMING UP:

* My dear friend Robin Stone is steering the legacy of her late, great husband Gerald Boyd - also a friend. He passed away a couple of years ago after an amazing career in journalism (making it to the heights of being the highest-ranking African American man at The New York Times). Well, his remarkable American tale "MY TIMES in Black & Whote: Race and Power at The New York Times" is done. Other upcoming events:  http://www.booktour.com/author/robin_d_stone Become a Facebook fan: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=1435626294#/pages/GeraldMBoydMyTimes/146984572566?ref=ts and www.mytimesinblackandwhite.com

* My CAU sister Ytasha Womack has a new book "Post Black: How A New Generation is Redefining African American Identity" and Booklist has picked it as a To 10 Black History Reader for the Year! She's coming to town for a book party. Hope to see her.

SHOUT OUTS:

* My girl Danni Conner's new blog: www.graffititomboy.blogspot.com

* My girl Renea's new gig: www.mobilematters.org

* My girl Tomika who is publicizing DORIS products, which were developed as part of a small home-run business over 35 years ago, but went public last January. DORIS NEW YORK is a hair care company owned and operated by Doris and Marlene Duperley, who are women of color and a mother-and-daughter team based in Queens, New York. Doris, who's the mom, is a long-time hairstylist and salon owner as well as a first generation Jamaican American. Her products are her dream come true.

*WHO IS GARTH VOISIN? Well, my girl Audrey hipped me to who he is. He's an Atlanta-based personal trainer and fitness model. He was recently named the 2009 cover model winner for KRAVE Magazine in Dallas, Texas. The contest featured models from across the country who sought after votes to win the cover. He is a native of Trinidad and Tobago and has been a resident in Atlanta for the past two years. He says he has always had a passion for working out and exercising so he naturally fell into the role of fitness professional. Voisin hopes to continue on the path of modeling, training and teaching youth today that exercise and fitness can be fun. Voisin will be featured on the September edition of KRAVE Magazine. For more information on Garth Voisin, log on to his website at www.gavjourney.com or check out www.kravemagazine.net. You can also see him in Angie Stone's new video: "I Ain't Hearin' You" among others.

REST IN PEACE:

Robin Diane Lynn

I am an AUTHENTIC, LOVING, and VULNERABLE MAN! Robin helped me access those ways of being which made way for BEING THE DIFFERENCE - even in the eye of the storm. R.I.P. Robin Lynn! http://216.117.188.141/rileyshowforkodjoe.wmv

Eunice Johnson

Roxanna Floyd

I've always been told that makeup artist for the stars - including Miss Ross at LEGENDS - Roxanna Floyd was my cousin some kind of way. She was always such a love and light when we'd run into each other at industry functions. R.I.P.

John Cater

 He used to log my field tapes in Chicago and went on to become an Emmy-award-winning reporter. Then, suddenly, he died at just-over 30. SUCH A GREAT GUY! GONE TOO SOON! But what a DIFFERENCE he was while he was here. RIP JOHN!

Gospel Uptown           

2110 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.

@125th Street

Dinner and Show and Group Packages Available!

BUY TICKETS CALL

212.280.2110 or visit

HTTP:/C/WWW.GOSPELUPTOWN.COM

ROY AYERS performed four BRILLIANT sets this weekend at GOSPEL UPTOWN. Ant and I got to check out the MASTER for one of the shows. The packed house was not only met with an awesome show (I was taking notes). But also, we got the lovely experience of a contemporary ‘supper club’ with great food and cocktails (as overseen by Executive Chef Kenneth Collins). ROY AYERS mentioned in his set that he loves “The Wendy Williams Show”. So, I made sure to tell him Ant works for the show, which made him giggle and say “How You Doin’?”.

On this Friday and Saturday, December 4^th and 5^th, jazz group PIECES OF A DREAM is performing. So, please go check them out!

Gospel Uptown           

2110 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.

@125th Street

Dinner and Show and Group Packages Available!

BUY TICKETS CALL

212.280.2110 or visit

HTTP:/C/WWW.GOSPELUPTOWN.COM

Meanwhile, I got my turn on the “Gospel Uptown” stage. I got the chance to sing TO Ashford & Simpson. I performed my favorite Diana Ross number "The Boss" which the dynamic duo wrote. And this legendary duo responded so graciously - standing on their feet with gratitude and enthusiasm. I'M SO BLESSED to have been able to share with them how much their talent and repertoire have meant to me. Big THANKS to producers and hosts Kevin-Anthony and Darius Booker for having me on the set. Also, a big shout out to Ashford & Simpson’s musicians and singers with whom I got the chance to bond in rehearsals earlier that week. One of the singers, Clayton, was my doppelganger for all of the high notes that “The Boss” requires. We blended brilliantly! I truly had a BALL on that stage. And I plan to do more performing come 2010.

But I wasn’t the only one letting Ashford & Simpson know how important they are to our lives. As singing is a sidelight for me, there were so many on that stage who do this for a living. And boy did they do it… for the living of Ashford & Simpson. My buddy Gordon Chambers wailed on an “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” with Amanda Brown. American Idol’s Anwar Robinson did “Reach Out & Touch (Somebody’s Hand)”. And Miss Melonie Daniels and Ryan Shaw turned out “You’re All I Need (To Get By)”. And on and on and on and on…

And they made sure that we got our THANKS from them - including an impromptu "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing".

And so many of my friends came out to support me (as well as to participate in this special honor for Ashford & Simpson). Two of my favorite people: Sidra Smith and Ken Roberson. Good to be back on the same coast with Sid. And Tony-calibre choreographer and performer Ken Roberson gave me a wonderful post-performance salute. Just what I needed to hear! And buddies Erich and Murphy were in the house along with my posse: Tata, Ern, and Ant.

Tata, who’d been out of town amidst my ‘birthday extravaganza’, just got back and made it her business to be in the house with me. We even joined Ant’s friend Manivone prior for BBQ and Dunkin Donuts. Afterwards, Ant, Ern, and I did some celebratory karaoke for what was a DREAM COME TRUE – to be singing for two of my favorites. And then if you add DIANA ROSS into the equation, I can’t process it all. Just too much! And such an ABUNDANT BLESSING!

This week offered lots for which to be grateful. It was THANKSGIVING after all. As Ant and I house-sat for our Mara and Tommie in their Harlem brownstone, we got to enjoy Thanksgiving brunch at IHOP in Harlem in the morning with our Momentum Education friend Ruben. Great to catch up with him!  Then, Ant and I were invited to dine on a delicious Thanksgiving meal at our girlfriends Charlie T and Danielle's place. They had a few other great friends in the house - including Maurice Runea and Sekiya. The food was great. Company even better. And we watched Beyonce's special as well. GO B!!!!

So I am STILL STANDING! Today, however, feet back on ground, I gotta land something quick and fast. Will temp for two days this week in anticipation of a 'green light' on a proposal I just submitted for a project that could keep revenue flowing through December. And of course, I'm taking all calls, meetings, auditions to land something that I'm hosting and running (including lots of brainstorming with Ant on proposals, treatments, and such around projects we will develop ourselves). Send a prayer up! 

And as GOD’S WONDERS ABOUND THROUGHOUT MY SOCIAL NETWORK, let me send A FEW SHOUT OUTS to friends who are leading EXTRAORDINARY LIVES in their respective, hustling lanes:

My friend Ceci (who I met through Kim Coles) was the wardrobe stylist on “Living Single”. She’s still styling and now organizing people’s lives. One of her latest style credits can be seen on YOU TUBE as she styled the Michelle Obama impersonator in this video: “Obama Does Thriller” - http://www.youtube.com/user/VernettaJenkins#p/a. CONGRATS CECI!

My girl Erica Watson is featured in “Precious”. Just one scene but a POWERFUL ONE with PUNCH. She’s been performing her one woman show “Fat Bitch” which will run in February 2010 at Time Square's Laurie Beechman Theater, presented by SpinCycle NYC (the production team that is currently producing "Joan Rivers Live"). And she will be featured in the January 2010 Essence Magazine, "Dating & Relationships" section, about how being plus-sized affects dating. She also just shot "Secret Celebrity Weddings," airing on the WE Channel next spring before the new season of "Bridezillas," commenting on the extreme things celebrities will do to try to keep their weddings top secret. For more on Erica Watson: www.ericawatson.com
www.erica-watson.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/EricaWatson.

So, how many times have you heard me talk about my good girlfriend/Amazing Grace Audrey Irvine? Lots, right? And many anecdotes that keep us laughing to this day. Moreover, she’s truly one of my dearest friends ever. Like, ride or die! Professionally, Audrey is a senior assignment manager for CNN. But her sparkle and gift of great storytelling has shown through to her employer which now has assigned her a weekly column on WWW.CNN.COM: "Relationship Rant" (http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/personal/11/18/rrants.dating.dealbreakers/index.html). Check back every week for her take on dating and relationships.

Have you seen Ya Ya – runner up on “America’s Next Top Model” (Eva’s Cycle) on “Ugly Betty”? She’s playing Nikko, the daughter of Vanessa Williams’ character Wilheimena Slater. GO YA YA!

VOTE FOR MY BUDDY DEMARCO: Please go onto OUTMUSIC.COM and click logo sponsored awards. DEMARCO is in the category: "Always Bringing Sexy Back". He’s in good company. But no one does sexy quite like him. CONGRATS DEMARCO!