A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

VALENTINE’S DAY BRUNCH

RESERVE YOUR SPACE HERE:  https://valentines-brunch-and-karaoke.eventbrite.com/ 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CLICK HERE: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2016/1/24/all-star-karaoke-special-on-valentines-day-sunday-21416.html

SUSAN TAYLOR

THIS IS Edward Lewis - The Man from Essence! Edward Lewis is a Co-Founder of the iconic magazine that found a MUSE in Susan Taylor! Want to also speak the names of friends Michaela angela Davis and Gordon Chambers who each shared their history with Susan Taylor with me. Each of them – and so many in the room – were ESSENCE alums who worked under Susan Taylor. In fact, a host of legends and industry insiders gathered at swanky event space 583 PARK AVENUE as we toasted the 70th birthday of the icon Susan Taylor. Millions were also raised as awareness was shed on the organization she Founded to mentor the children of the world: the National CARES Mentoring Movement - National Office. The star-studded For the Love of Our Children gala kicked off a major fundraising campaign to support the national roll-out of transformative mentoring initiatives aimed at providing the nation’s most vulnerable youth with crucial support. Eddie and C. Sylvia Brown were honored for their extensive philanthropic support of education indicatives through the Brown Family Foundation. I even have an anecdote or two on my resume with Susan Taylor: LIFE OF RILEY has been invited and covered Miss Taylor's events in years gone by - one she did featuring one of my main and most lucrative clients as a freelance field producer: Oprah Winfrey - in 2008: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/12/21/what-a-day-for-a-daydream.html. Also worth noting: I got to field produce Susan Taylor for a couple of REMEMBERING YOUR SPIRIT installments that ran on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" in 1998. GREAT TIMES! As an independent producer/personality/writer, I still credit OWN a client as I am a freelance field producer for "Oprah, Where Are They Now?" - including one of my latest on DL HUGHLEY: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8JV9iIMbao. I have a half dozen or so pieces coming up in the current season of the show, including updates on Iman, The Chew’s Carla Hall, and Carol Daughter’s Lisa Price. SHOUT OUT TO MY Sidra Smith and her team for producing with Susan Taylor an awesome and elegant night - including a palpable script written by my personal icon in the business Stanley Bennett Clay! susantaylor #essence #nationalCARES #mentoring #fortheloveofourchildren

STARS ALIGN FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Yoko Ono, Danny Glover, Dionne Warwick, Malcolm Jamal Warner, Reverend Jesse Jackson, and Esperanza Spalding are among a diverse group of stars, civil rights icons, and religious leaders challenging all Americans to ring a historic church bell in Colonial Williamsburg during Black History Month as a call for racial healing, hope, and justice nationwide.

The "Let Freedom Ring Challenge" launches February 1st with a star-studded ceremony and concert in Williamsburg, Virginia on February 1st to celebrate the 240th anniversary of the First Baptist Church of Williamsburg, one of the country’s oldest African-American houses of worship. Founded in 1776 by enslaved men and women, the church's bell has been silent since the days of segregation, but has been newly restored by historians from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation in honor of this historic occasion.

The event will honor America’s civil rights heroes and activists, including Dr. Bernard Lafayette, the leader of the Selma Voting Rights Movement and launch a challenge to the nation to play a part in history by ringing the restored bell throughout the day — every day — during Black History Month. A national broadcast and social media #LetFreedomRing campaign, featuring videos from Yoko Ono, Malcolm Jamal Warner, and other artists, dignitaries, and social activists, will also be undertaken throughout the month.

MISS JESSIE'S

 SHOUT OUT to MISS JESSIE'S CEO and CO-FOUNDER MIKO BRANCH. I'm doing Brand Ambassador work with Miss Jessie's who sponsors my Billie's Black presents All Star Karaoke with Patrick L. Riley, a popular open mic night I host in Harlem. Her book is 2015 best seller Miss Jessie's: Creating a Successful Business from Scratch-Naturally (Amistad; Hardcover; $24.99) which we promote at ALL STAR KARAOKE: https://youtu.be/RL-EqYvCAeI.  

Arise 360

HI FOLKS! Swan song show for my week of guest co-hosting on ARISE 360 with Lola Ogunnaike (filling in for Shannon Lanier): http://www.arise.tv/entertainment/arise-360-05-12-9618. It included "Annie" Executive Producer Devon Franklin, whose book "Produced by Faith" is one of my favorites. Also, Chef Gabe Thompson presented "Downtown Italian". Yum! And did I mention that DJ D NICE popped by? Such an awesome hip hop legend, DJ supreme, and renowned photographer. SHOUT OUT TO Arise Entertainment 360 - primarily Lola Ogunnaike with whom I got to be a guest co-host – filling in for my friend Shannon Lanier who is away on special assignment. Earlier in the week, we interviewed BRAVO’s Fashion Queens– including my friend Bevy Smith and Miss Lawrence and Derek J: http://youtu.be/hb6gUFK3vsc. LOVE Bevy Smith!!! Also, culled from my childhood, “THE DUKES OF HAZZARD” themselves: John Schneider (now on Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots) and Tom Wopat (who I mostrecently saw in “The Trip to Bountiful” on Broadway): http://youtu.be/22GqEbrF1OU. They’ve recorded a HOLIDAY ALBUM! And mega-producer Sean Garrett brought Avery Wilson (former The Voice contestant) to hip us to his upcoming album and to sing Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas”: http://youtu.be/TUfq35qKJV4. Plus, we had an Ashley Stewart fashion show! WHEW (because you know we had more than our share of hot topics): http://youtu.be/OsB8Kf2p7ow! FROM EARLIER THIS WEEK: SHOW #2 is here: http://www.arise.tv/entertainment/arise-360-03-12-9579 - including interviews with actors Tony Denison (http://youtu.be/iIkAm7XmEgc). Also, Christian Kale (http://youtu.be/NFY4gpMivxw). Plus, my highlight: Alan Light whose “Let’s Go Crazy: Prince and the Making of Purple Rain” made for blissful chat (http://youtu.be/TKDXudN2yC0). SHOW #1 from my guest co-host stint on ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360 is here – featuring interviews with Ben Vereen! Yes, THE Ben Vereen! (http://youtu.be/a12El8-zU_k)! ALSO: Faith Evans (http://youtu.be/LfpHpiQd2pg):http://www.arise.tv/entertainment/arise-360-02-12-9562. AND MORE! HOLIDAY DECORATING TIPS: http://youtu.be/zDI7_qZqOTU; and MORE HOLIDAY FASHON: http://youtu.be/YrlE0C4nPQg. FULL EPISODE of Show #3 is here: http://www.arise.tv/entertainment/arise-360-04-12-9595. As always, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Watch Daily On Time Warner, Verizon Fios, Centric and On Demand... www.YouTube.com/AriseENT360 + you can watch it streaming live on www.arise.tv at 3p/eastern everyday – whether I’m there or not.  #ARISE360 #hiphopchangedus #devotion #endlesslove #popcultureandpossibilities #billiesblack #allstarkaraoke #CentricTV

Thinspired

I’ve already congratulated my internet wife, Mara Schiavocampo on her upcoming book “THINspired”, due December 30^th… but you can pre-order on Amazon NOW: http://www.amazon.com/Thinspired-Pounds-Lasting-Weight-Self-Acceptance/dp/1476784051/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417643482&sr=8-1&keywords=thinspired. She came by “Billie’s Black Presents ALL STAR KARAOKE with Patrick L. Riley” once to talk about it (and sing a little): http://youtu.be/JTZt5efrf4c. On this upcoming Tuesday, ALL STAR KARAOKE toasts Mara on this awesome milestone in her life and career. We’ll give some books away to those who participate in our round-robin of fun singing… and she’ll have some copies of the latest edition of ESSENCE inside of which there’s an EXCLUSIVE excerpt from her book. Also, you'll find some FABULOUS PICTURES of Mara through the years - http://bit.ly/ask_mara #THINspired

All Star Karaoke COUNTDOWN

TWO TUESDAYS TO GO on our Fall 2014 Series of Billie’s Black Presents All Star Karaoke with Patrick L. Riley (though my ALL STAR KARAOKE producer Bernice will be holding down 12/23 and 12/30 for those still in town and in the mood for some Holiday CAROL-ing on Tuesday night!!!!). Come January, ALL STAR KARAOKE with Patrick L. Riley goes on hiatus (looking to APRIL to re-launch). But my girlfriend MIKA deHarlem will be hosting a fun karaoke experience on Tuesday’s – starting in mid-January. Look out for that… and CONGRATS, MIKA! WE LOVE YOU… and will come out and sing with you too! BUT my FINAL BLOW-OUT will be Tuesday, December 16th (and – yes – we’ll be in the house December 9th as well with Mara Schiavocampo from Good Morning America). MEANWHILE, to recap LAST TUESDAY: I was barely over the high of interviewing Broadway royalty: the TONY-AWARD-WINNING actor Ben Vereen on guest-co-host duty at recurring client ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360 - http://www.arise.tv/entertainment/arise-360-02-12-9562. AND THEN another LEGENDARY TONY AWARD WINNER decided to grace us: MR. GEORGE FAISON who won the Tony for choreographing the THE WIZ on Broadway... and over my years in New York, he has become a friend. TOTAL HONOR! George let everybody know about the classic "Ain't Misbehavin'" (The Fats Waller Musical Show) that is running at his wonderful Faison Firehouse throughout December (For tickets and information, call Smart Tix at 212.868.4444 or log on to www.SmartTix.com). The shows run on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The house was filled with a round robin of our ALL STAR KARAOKE FAITHFULS and goodies from our sponsors Riley Land Gourmet Pantry - on board with us since the beginning; and our Fall 2014 Series title sponsor at Billie's Black Gourmet Soul: Miss Jessie's which always brings such enthusiasm from our ALL STAR KARAOKE audience. THANK YOU, MIKO and MISS JESSIE'S! WE LOVE YOU!
 SPECIAL SHOUT OUT to: NEW ALL STAR Phillip Evelyn II who stars in a film that Ant and I stumbled into on Net Flix: “Leave it on the Floor” and my Morehouse (little) brother Tony Moultry who hipped us all to his Chicer Collegiate clothing line: http://www.chicerc.com/.  We’ll be back next Tuesday at 7p for "Billie's Black Presents All Star Karaoke with Patrick L. Riley". WITH TWO MORE TO GO, we want to have the chance to SEE and HEAR you all before the year is up! As always, THANKS TO MY TEAM: Derrick Hemphill and Bernice Wooden as well as my partner Anthony Harper, who came up with the concept for ALL STAR KARAOKE and is always in the cut to support our little night that DOES (AND THEN SOME! LOL!). AND THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT. #ARISE360 #hiphopchangedus #devotion #endlesslove #popcultureandpossibilities #billiesblack #allstarkaraoke #CentricTV #‎THINspired ‪#‎Dec30

What a busy week! I’m on deadline with one client BET as I work with its creative team on content for its UP FRONT presentations in April. Been balancing work with other clients – spot shoots here and consulting gigs there. I even got an invitation to sing “Through the Fire” to Chaka Khan for her 60^th birthday, but the plans around those arrangements changed along with my serenade. A friend tells me “mercury is in retrograde”. Maybe… LOL!

girlfriendz

Shout out to Mara Brock Akil who received such an awesome honor Oscar week from Essence at its annual women's luncheon (presented to her by the original cast of "Girlfriends" I.E. Tracee Ellis Ross, Golden Brooks, Persia White, and - wait for it - Jill Marie Jones AKA Toni Chiles whose character abruptly moved to NYC from LA and before the show went away, we never heard from her again). But I missed that event as I didn't get to LA until Friday for my Oscar-related business:  the Oscar Viewing Party - hosted by the African American Film Critics Association and the Robey Theatre Company. I enrolled fine liquor comany Remy Martin to partner with the groups' fundraiser to ensure all suitably quenched while the live telecast ran [Go J Hud!!!]). The one thing missing from the L.A. Center Studios set was Mara Brock Akil who I invited to the Oscar Viewing Party. But as I was hopping into Hollywood, she was heading to Atlanta to continue her work on her upcoming BET creation: "Being Mary Jane" starring Gabrielle Union (Stay tuned). But in addition to texting me her regrets, she made good on it: inviting me to sit at she and her fab director husband Salim Akil's table that they bought for the New York City-based Dance Theater of Harlem's Vision Gala (They were Gala Co-Chairs). Though in their absence, my "Amazing Grace" Nichole Andrews invited me to escort her...and BABY! WE HAD A BLAST! - an evening produced - in large order - by my friend Vernon! In addition to reconnecting to dear friends Terri Prettyman Bowles and her husband Alvin Bowles as well as many other friends Olivia Scott-Perkins(Omerge Alliance); publicist Gilda Squire; TV exec Sharon Nelson; colleague(at BET) Jeanine Liburd; EXTRA correspondent AJ; host of "Closet Talk" Chenoa Maxwell; Corcoran Group's Spencer Means (NYC real estate agent); journalist Lola Ogunnaike (and her brother who works at Amex where my nephew works); Salim's Uncle Rick; former N Boutique co-owner Larry; and a beautiful room of folks:

* to honor Vision Award Honoree Vanessa L. Williams (TOTAL FAV!!!!! And an even more profound treat seeing her daughter Jillian Hervey AKA Lion Babe - an aspiring singer/actress and current fashionista a la her mom's 'Right Stuff' era - present to her mom while Vanessa's mom looked on with pride. Jillian's latest video is all the rage with the young'ns: "Treat Me Like Fire":  www.youtube,com/watch?v=gNd2XAP_Pfo 

* to enjoy Eyewitness 7's Sade Baderinwa;

* to be in the presence of Opera diva Jessye Norman;

 * to be impressed byHonorary Chair Chelsea Clinton;

AND

* to be inspired by all the wonderful, young dancers! Indeed I was exhausted from our L.A. whirlwind followed by a quite full and demanding day with my client. But clearly, I found my second wind: The Colors of the Wind to be exact.

everybody loves sidra

Harlem BFF Sidra Smith attracted a ROOM FULL OF LOVE! Backdrop? Cedric’s for her birthday – including many of her NYC FAMILY MEMBERS i.e. Ant, Carl, Mara Schiavocampo, Tommie Porter, MISS NINA, Nathan Hale Williams (who brought actress Jennifer Lewis by to greet Sidra), Brian Palmer Washington, Micheala angela Davis, DJ Stormin’ Norman, Gordon Chambers (who has a show TONIGHT with Avery Sunshine at the Highline Ballroom: http://highlineballroom.com/show/2013/03/07/avery-sunshine-with-gordon-chambers/); As he serenaded Sid HAPPY BIRTHDAY, I joined in... and then we all cut up! LOL!), Eric Deon, Phedra Gremillon, Elisabeth Blix Lie, Ramon Hervey, Ary, Tracey Smith, and a host more. After brunch wrapped, we popped over to Billie’s Black and ran into even more well-wishers – including Kimberly Nichole and my nephew Herman L. Riley III. He was having a brunch with a few colleagues. Sid was thrilled to see him. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SIDRA! WE LOVE YOU!

love hangover

Y'all SAVE THE DATE(S) for my girl LaChanze who is presenting a LOVE HANGOVER to all of NYC! See this clip: https://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?v=10200753000931783 “Stop! In The Name of Love”? or “You Keep Me Hangin’ On”?, La Chanze asks on this viral as she prepares to perform Love Hangover: Celebrating the Music of Diana Ross over THREE... NIGHTS in April at 54 Below (www.54below.com) ...: April 17, 18, & 22nd! I mentioned in a prior “…Life of Riley…” that my girlfriend LACHANZE is doing this special tribute (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2013/1/24/first-look-and-listen.html). When she originally told me, she said “knowing she’s your girl, I just had to share this with you. I'm so inspired and pumped up about it I don't know what to do…!!” Moreover, you know I bombarded her with recommendations of what she should sing. She says she’s doing sections for her set list: MISS ROSS’ #1s; MOVIES; JAZZ; SUPREMES (“Baby Love”; “Where Did Our Love Go?”; “I Hear a Symphony”; and only one more song can fit in the section: “Stop! In The Name of Love”? or “You Keep Me Hangin’ On”? WHAT SAY YOU? LACHANZE went on to say “… I LOVE HER! And while so many other legends have been celebrated, I can't think of one honoring her…” I LOVE IT!

black on black

Shout out to a dear friend Berlinda Garnett with whom I used to work at CNBC in the mid-‘90s. We were BFFs then and have stayed in touch through the years, even though I hadn’t seen her in a decade-plus. She popped into NYC from Philadelphia recently and what a reunion we had. She met me at my client BET’s Times Square office. This, while she is an UBER-PRODUCER of SPECIALS and great programming like “Good Day Philadelphia” (www.myfoxphilly.com). She’s produced and promoted a series of specials titled “Black on Black” which have been highly-praised and nominated for awards (I SMELL EMMY!).  YOU GO, BERLINDA! I’m so proud of you ALWAYS! Here are some links to her work: http://www.myfoxphilly.com/video?clipId=6980827&autostart=true And from “Black on Black… the Conversation Continues” - http://www.myfoxphilly.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=7981645&clienttype=generic&mobilecgbypass.

vy higginsen

My dear friend Vy Higginsen is celebrating the 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF "MAMA, I WANT TO SING" - the longest-running off-Broadway Black musical in theater history!  EVENT CHAIRS Lesley Stahl; Aretha Franklin; Chaka Khan; Cissy Houston; Shirley Caesar; Valerie Simpson; and show creator Vy Higginsen are doing a big RED CARPET on Saturday, March 23rd at The Dempsey Theater - 127 West 127th Street - Harlem. (The Gospel for Teens program will benefit; It was created to transform young lives through music and to pass on gospel as an art form so that the music never dies). For more information, click on www.mamafoundation.org.

merrell hollis

Shout out to my friend and Wendy Williams glam-squad best Merrell Hollis for his recent  2013 Bronner Bros. ICON Award presented By Clairol last month in Atlanta. Merrell is blowing up – working on many great projects – including his flawless foundation pro class that he teaches in Harlem. LOVE YOU, MERRELL! KEEP GOING! #flawlessfoundation

ken reynolds

I got to see friend and legendary entertainment publicist Ken Reynolds when I was out in Los Angeles. He was in New York City with two clients JU-TAUN (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Exist/110507328978273?ref=ts&fref=ts&rf=106390986063307#!/jutaun?fref=ts) and DC FAM (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Exist/110507328978273?ref=ts&fref=ts&rf=106390986063307#!/DCFAMBoston?fref=ts)! You’ll want to check them out – so don’t sleep!

will downing

Grammy Nominated Singer Will Downing is celebrating 25 Years of Recording Excellence with the Release of "Silver"! It’s out now! And what a wonderful reflection: http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Will-Downing/dp/B00B1E6FLM.

the tony rich project

Shout out to my friend Thornell Jones for reminding me about his client The Tony Rich Project’s "Speak Me", a new album coming May 2013. Pre-view new music at www.hiddenbeach.com/thetonyrichproject Pre-Order Now at http://www.hiddenbeach.com/speakme .

kenneth carr

Hey y'all! Check out my friend Kenneth Carr's video about the history and the evolution of his music! Share with your family and friends... and don't forget to LIKE it... Thxs! Stay tuned for the first release coming in a couple weeks.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HXv6nmqmG8

YOUNG SAVANNAH VOICES

Shout out to on-line health journalism camp “Young Savannah Voices” – directed by my fellow journalist and friend Tina A. Brown who I just ran into a couple of weeks ago at client, The Links, Incorporated’s National Assembly in Orlando. Soon after our reunion, Tina invited me to be a one-time Professional Skype Coach. I presented a workshop about “The Art of a Story” (As a Largo Tibet Elementary School; Derenne Middle School; and Windsor Forest High School alum, I get excited when I speak to folks from home!). Among other sharing, I got to speak on a health-related project on which I’ve worked in the last year with the AMERICAN STROKE ASSOCIATION. In addition to being hired as VO talent for the sponsorship video (http://www.powertoendstroke.org/about-sponsorship-reel.html), I was hired to do the red carpet reporting for the association’s Spring APOLLO benefit 2011. It ran on GMC last summer as well: http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/PatrickDemoSept2011.mov. From the 'on-line health journalism' angle, it showed the students the many CELEBS who spoke on the red carpet about STROKE AWARENESS. ADDITIONALLY, the AMERICAN STROKE ASSOCIATION/AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION hired me to blog and testify about STROKE in my life and family: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/4/3/american-heart-association-presents-you-are-the-power-benefi.html -AND- . In addition to being a member of The Links, Tina is an author/lecturer. “Crooked Road Straight: The Awakening of AIDS Activist Linda Jordan” is her first book: http://www.crookedroadstraight.com/. I LOVE YOU, SAVANNAH! THANKS TINA! And to my new friends, THE YOUNG SAVANNAH VOICES: THANK YOU for your enthusiasm, great questions, and spot-on intellect!!!!

FIVE SPOT

It's been a busy week - producing a special project for recurring client BET Creative Services. Glad my 'Amazing Grace' (I call her), Nichole Andrews Shellman, invited me out for a catch-up drink (She and I will soon be featured in a piece I wrote on 'gay men and their best girlfriends' that's due to drop on CNN.com very soon). Ant and his BFF Manivone joined us at Therapy - also for light bites. From there, Manivone and her man, Taha, convinced me to pop down to Clinton Hill, Brooklyn (to the 5 Spot - www.fivespotmenu.com/) to join the Open Mic Wednesday Night. I sang Maxwell's "This Woman's Work" and the FAB band didn't miss a beat. Taha’s brother Adam and Denver buddy Chris were in the mix too. Great Wednesday which had me missing my ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT (but it was REALLY NICE with a HOT BAND! THANKS Y’ALL!). For those new to ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT: We are currently looking to host another karaoke night in Harlem. As you know, we gave birth to ALL-STAR KARAOKE in August 2010 when NATIVE Restaurant asked me to HOST a karaoke night. Hence, ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT was born! And we had a blast until our wrap back in June 2011 (last year). We are exploring new locales now. Our guest singers - on any given night - included: songstress Tichina Arnold; R&B divas Alyson Williams & Monifah (SOON to be seen on TV ONE’s “R&B Divas” - http://tvone.tv/shows/r-and-b-divas); actress Napiera Groves; the artist formerly known as TONEX, B. Slade; Mariah Carey's long-standing background singer Melony Daniels - an artist her own right; Broadway baby Brenda Braxton; singer/author David Nathan; FELA!s Kevin Mambo; Paul Wharton ("Real Housewives of DC"); etc. WOULD LOVE TO CONTINUE that level of evening in addition to our regular karaoke lovers! Of course, the blog “A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities” has chronicled much of the ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/karaoke.

CANDY SEZ

“A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities” welcomes Candice Harper to the blogosphere! She introduced Candy SEZ - Self-Esteem Zen for the Single City Girl last night (www.candysez.com). She is now LIVE with 'Nistas, Alkaline Recipes, Ex-Con ex Boyfriends, and all kinds of Single City Girl STUFF! Candice’s favorite writing spot Astor Row Café hosted the well-appointed affair at which she read an article live, and auctioned off mini blow-ups of 'Nistas. She also led a fundraiser for Girls Inc. – raising a few hundred dollars for that awesome cause. AND she presented the RED VELVET CANDIECAKES TOWER – comprised of delicious mini-cupcakes that we all enjoyed – including Sidra Smith, my Morehouse brother George Alexander, Ant, and a host of others. CONGRATS MISS CANDICE HARPER! WE LOVE YOU!See More

POOL PARTY

Shout out to my friend Ed Roebuck for inviting us out to his Long Branch, NJ family home for pool-side pleasantries. Ern, Ant, and I went together and joined many friends – including Lemuel Adams; Lamoh Hicks; Dwight Ross; Monroe Shannon; David P. Martin; and several other great folks! Ed’s producing and organizing expertise is often called on by only the greats – including Miss Nancy Wilson and Miss Diana Ross…and many around the pool can drop a name or few from their respective client lists as well.

NINO & NINA

“New Jack City” was recently the selection for movie night at Mara and Tommie’s Harlem pad. Next select: “Boomerang”! On another day at Mara, Tommie, and their newborn Nina’s place, we were supposed to be celebrating Nina's mom Mara Schiavocampo's latest nod as 35 UNDER 35: YOUNG, BLACK, AMAZING in Essence.com: http://photos.essence.com/galleries/35_under_35_young__black___amazing/entry_image/1382653-mara_schiavocampo_32#!1384763. But once propped up by dad Tommie, Nina requested her own celebration in SONG c/o MOI! LOL! To the inspired melody of Lionel Richie’s “Truly”, I served accordingly: https://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?v=4360775780176.

JAMES BALDWIN

James Baldwin’s LEGACY continues beyond the wonderful experience I had to participate --- as narrator --- with the cast of Baldwin’s AMEN CORNER for PROJECT 1 VOICE (www.project1voice.org). My Morehouse brother CHARLES REESE is still out on the road with his unique literary performance book salon experience in honor of James Baldwin’s birthday celebration. Presented by the National James Baldwin Literary Society on this FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012 (STATION NORTH ARTS CAFE & GALLERY. 1816 North Charles Street. Baltimore, Maryland – from 6:30pm – 8:30pm. 410 625 6440. www.jamesbaldwin.org), expect a great time. “JAMES BALDWIN A SOUL ON FIRE,” a book version of the critically-acclaimed Off Broadway short play by the late playwright and Emmy Award Nominee, Howard B. Simon (1962-2000) is now available at Amazon.com. Edited and guided by the original Off-Broadway actor and DC native, Charles Reese with a special foreword by David Leeming (Baldwin’s Biographer and former secretary); and coupled with an afterword by original actor and Tony Award Nominee, Forrest McClendon (Scottsboro Boys). The book was published by Azaan Kamau/Glover Lane Press, an independent publisher. The experience – including a copy of the book – is $20. There will be a lively conversation with some rare archival footage of the Off Broadway play and music. Reception immediately follows the book signing. Charles is also currently a series regular on the hit micro web comedy, "WHO" available only at www.ajakwetv.com. For more information on Charles Reese and Book Salon, please email: soulonfire63@yahoo.com or visit: www.sag.com/iactor.com and www.jamesbaldwinasoulonfire.com.

DR. ANN KIMBROUGH

During my days at Morehouse, I spent lots of time at Clark Atlanta University’s Mass Media Arts Department under the supervision of advisor/mentor/friend Ann Kimbrough. Over the years, we’ve stayed in close touch and – at a point – she became my ‘mother of the industry’ (and holding). She just recently snagged her Ph.D and has been named the Dean of the School of Journalism at FAMU. Though I’m sure we’ll celebrate, Dr. Kimbrough’s message to fellow classmates and AUC alums alike: “…YOU will be coming to Tallahassee to help the students!” And so it is… and will be! LOL!

NABJ IN PHILLY: A JOURNAL

The NABJ Convention is my 'annual therapy'. Philly's gathering was no exception. Of course, there are always awesome workshops. And as I stepped down from being Chair of the NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force, I was happy to have good programming for our members. The reunion started at the Convention Center; We experienced some beautiful art at a gallery; We checked in at friend Caleb Wilkerson's place; Had a reunion with our Aci Nae girlfriends. They hosted our pilot project last year: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2010/6/19/postcards-from-the-edge.html;  and dinner at Del Frisco's (PRIME RIB! YUM!); and PURE EXCITEMENT to see my NABJ FAMILY! Much of it can be seen in these pix:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150265238803737.331588.662073736&type=1

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150268048688737.332501.662073736&type=1

I'll share the rest here:

KEVIN ANDRE DICKENS

While here in Philly, I primarily wore the bespoke designs & tailoring of my friend Kevin Andre Dickens. He does AWESOME work out of his Manhattan-based KD Studio. Holla if you want to reach him! THANK YOU, KEVIN!

‘REED BETWEEN THE LINES’

NABJ Thursday was a good one! Lunch at El Vez for delicious, nouveau Mexican cuisine with Ant & Caleb Wilkerson; sometimes client BET brought in my fav Tracee Ellis Ross; Malcolm Jamal Warner; Anna Marie Horsford (a "..life of Riley..." fan! WHO KNEW? LOL!); & Melissa DeSousa - co-stars of BET's new scripted sitcom "Reed Between The Lines" (Premiering in October 2011).

ESSENCE & TRACEE ELLIS ROSS

http://www.essence.com/2011/08/03/tracee-ellis-ross-graces-the-september-issue-of-essence/  So speaking of Tracee Ellis Ross and NABJ, I must shout out some of my sisters I know through NABJ and associated circles of Black journalists: Kierna Mayo (pictured left) penned the Tracee Ellis Ross cover story in the current issue of ESSENCE. This month’s issues has even more for me to LOVE inside: Karen Good Marable – wife of one of my BFFs Maurice (the wedding Ant & I attended in Jamaica earlier this summer); Bevy Smith; Tai Beauchamp; & Robin D. Stone (who writes of a mutual girlfriend Celeste Victoria who was plucked from our lives 10 yrs ago on 9/11 & the miracle legacy she left behind who we all have known and loved as she is Celeste’s daughter Jasmine – now a full-fledged woman who continues to be BE A DIFFERENCE in our world, despite the huge loss of her doting mother. (Here’s my reflection of 9/11:  http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/a-letter-from-ground-zero-91101.html). WORK, SISTAHS... and keep booking them, my friend CONSTANCE WHITE - Editor-in-Chief!

TARGET, STEVE STOUTE, & SOLANGE

TARGET also pulled out the stops with its "A Conversation with Steve Stoute" (profiling his book project "The Tanning of America"). The session was moderated by Soledad O'Brien. I had a hand in producing her at Ogilvy a couple of weeks ago. DJ Solange Knowles was in the re-mix on this spectacular...and even helped me find my lost Blackberry!

Now, there's buzz of her portraying Miss Ross in the not-yet-official-but-perhaps-closing-in bio-pic, "Blondie" about original Supreme Florence Ballard. http://www.mlive.com/movies/index.ssf/2011/08/rumors_of_florence_ballard_bio.html

ERIC BENET & GMC

ERIC BENÉT brought NABJ a screening of TRINITY GOODHEART - his TV movie on GMC on which I had a chance to get some shine from my red carpet reporter duties at the Power to End Stroke Concert at The Apollo a few months ago. In fact, the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association has hired me again to do some voice-over work for their sales & marketing materials. After the screening, Eric was joined by my friend (and NABJ baby) Rhonda Baraka and GMC’s Paul Butler for a Q&A with CNN’s T.J. Holmes.

NABJ BABIES

My mentor and mother of all things NABJ-TV (the student project - circa 1991 for me): Sheila Brooks hosted a REUNION of the NABJ BABIES in the lobby of our host hotel! ALWAYS GREAT TO RECONNECT with EVERYBODY! And CONGRATULATIONS to Sheila for receiving a special honor in the name of our beloved Pat Tobin whose daughter Lauren – a friend – presented it.

PHILLY AT NIGHT

FUN times with the fellows in Downtown Philly! Woody's ended up being a night-cap spot on one night along with a number of other fun spots.

DISNEY DREAMER’S ACADEMY

I jumped on the NABJ stage one night to HOST the big DISNEY event. And one of my all-time favorites performed, vocal greats Yolanda Adams; a taped appearance from Steve Harvey who updated us on his Disney Dreamer's Academy. This is the 4th year I've hosted the like for recurring client DISNEY… and during the show, DISNEY surprised me with a DISNEY trip and a special salute for being HOST of their event since the beginning.We introduced Disney Dreamer’s Academy back in Vegas a few years back. THANK YOU, DISNEY!

“THE HELP”

Based on one of the most talked about books in years and a #1 New York Times best-selling phenomenon, “The Help” came to NABJ. And Academy Award®–nominated Viola Davis (“Doubt”) and Octavia Spencer in tow. The author Kathryn Stockett and director/screenwriter Tate Taylor were also in attendance. MSNBC’s Tamron Hall moderated – my second time working with her at NABJ. Michael K. Watts and I produced a Hall of Fame Luncheon she hosted a few years back in Tampa.

“RED TAILS”

Lucasfilm Ltd. brought a special sneak peek of RED TAILS – a high-flying WWII epic inspired by the heroism of the first all African-American aerial combat unit. Showcasing the inspiring story of the Tuskegee Airmen to the screen, the film celebrates the intrepid young airmen who took to the skies to fight for their country – and the fate of the free world. In attendance: Charles Floyd Johnson, Producer; Terrence Howard; and Cuba Gooding Jr. who also joined NABJ for the “Salute to Excellence” Awards where my dear friend and NABJ sister Mara Schiavocampo brought home two awards for her work at NBC News. Also in the mix for NABJ, my ITIKA - or Ti-Ti - as I call her. As you know, she's one of my Chicago BFFs. Radio personality Kendra Gee also hung out with us. Always a good time with ITIKA!

POST-NABJ, BET, MLK

NABJ in Philly brought MY ANNUAL THERAPY & a GREAT TIME! Though it was EXHAUSTING (with all of my commitments), it was - as always - WORTH THE TRIP! After NABJ, I jumped right into working with an awesome team on producing a special project at BET in NYC (for related MLK Monument Dedication festivities). Total honor to be a stand for King’s legacy in this way.

MOREHOUSE COLLEGE GLEE CLUB CELEBRATES ‘100’

The Maroon & White Fund will host a national tribute to the Morehouse College Glee Club's "100 Years in Song" during a special weekend from September 30th to October 2nd, 2011 here in New York City – including a Lincoln Center appearance. For the entirety of the Morehouse College Glee Club's 100 years in existence, it has represented the best of Morehouse College and America. During my four years at Morehouse, I got to travel all over with the glee club and in 1991, I got to speak on the stage of the Kennedy Center in front of the glee club as we honored recipient Robert Shaw, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Conductor and Composer during Kennedy Center Honors (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZF2iK2VOY8). For more information, see the flier below:

BEYONCE “4” NEW YORK CITY

I've still been able to squeeze in some friend time: my NABJ brother Bruce Reynolds joined me for a quick drink at Hudson Eatery; we got in nephew Herman time (with his mom Fe in town) at Melba's; and also in Harlem, Orange 67 was the backdrop for a nightcap with friends Jamar; Garrett; and company. But most excitedly, my nephew invited me to accompany he and his friends to see Beyonce perform. It was a fun group of Morehouse brothers; Spelman sisters; and a Howard alum in the mix for the HBCU love of it all. She was doing one of her “4” NYC shows. And word has it, the first of those shows sold out 22 seconds after going on sale. She did "4" shows of her "4" material over "4" days at Roseland Ballroom. And she - of course - gave us a sampling of her greatest hits. The crowd - including us - were singing along to every word. And we were dancing to every groove. For our show, Jay Z, Diddy, Mary Mary, Neyo, The Dream, and Adrienne (of 3LW/"Cheetah Girls" fame) were in t he house. As always, GO BEY! And of course, I ran into many friends - including my karaoke pusher men Dante and Marcus; and fashion editor extraordinaire Walter Greene.

MY AMAZING GRACE NICHOLE

Happy Birthday, my Amazing Grace Nichole's BDAY set at Chez Lucienne in Harlem was a BLAST! In attendance: Nichole's New Ro crew Michelle who came with her client, singer Po Johnson (& Diche) in tow - both of whom are on "LaLa's Full Court" (Michelle too!); Tanya (attorney - now at ESPN); Angelique Frances (producer who hired me to do red carpet at her daughter's Sweet 16); Nic's cuz Jeffrey Williams ("Fashion Show" winner); our Dawn; Will (on his way to Haiti for an international assignment); and others (I missed Sid & Danielle...but HEY Y'all!). Then, after set at Red Rooster.... Oh! And most excitedly, my friend Janet (Hill)Talbert (www.onthisrocknyc.com) was in the house. She's a former book editor turned FAB jewelry designer whose line is Christian-and-Inspiration-themed! And one of our ALL-STAR KARAOKE REGULARS Belinda Munro just won THE APOLLO the other night! She is advancing to the next round on Aug 24: http://www.apollotheater.org/recap-winners-and-losers/494-amateur-night-81011.

Congrats BELINDA!

CATFISH & CALEB

One week after Caleb showed us such a good time in Philly, I got to hang out at the nearby-Hudson Hotel to join he, Monica, Ern, and Ant. Afterwards, we popped by Moca Lounge in Harlem for catfish fingers and fries.

AKHENATEN & BASQUIAT

See how AWESOME Ant’s art show was: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150273229038737.334123.662073736 He and our girlfriend Cynthia are a part of a collective of artists who did pieces inspired by Basquiat. The community exhibit is up until January 2012. Ant’s artist name is Akhenaten. He’s showing two of his pieces, “Sun Pharaoh” & “Queen Mother in the Sky”. His has previously shown his conceptual body of work “Manufacturism” in his hometown of Denver, CO at the 910 Arts Gallery. His background also includes studies in Journalism, Native American Art and Art History at the University of Colorado-Boulder. Afterwards, our girlfriend Mara Schiavocampo and her husband Tommie opened up their Harlem home to all of our friends and family for an after-set that toasted and celebrated Ant and Cynthia, the amazing artists that they are.

MORE ART IN NYC

Shout out to Ant's BFF Manivone Nonthaveth who presented her 1st solo art exhibition "PAPER STATUS: Paper Sculptures" at VELVET in Williamsburgh (Brooklyn, NY). This is the spot where Ant used to bartend and host theme Sunday nights. FAB NIGHT - even after a double shift of editing on this special project at BET! GO MAX! And I went to opening of PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT as well with my inner circle artist soul-mates Anthony Harper & Manivone Nonthaveth. We got to see the works of Lawrence Joyner; Tyson Hall; & Dean Richards. Also ran into my friend Jennifer Ouellette – AWESOME maker of hats and other designer accents: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/12/20/pat-in-a-hat.html.

PAUL WHARTON

My friend Paul Wharton (from "The Real Housewives of DC") first came to my ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT in Harlem a few months ago (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/4/18/baby-its-you-me.html). Now, he's a FABULOUS recording artist - including collaborations with Ginuwine & Sole. GO PAUL!

CARL NELSON

Shout out to my friend Carl Nelson who took a play “Incognito” to the National Black Theater Festival in Winston Salem,NC. Several of my friends were there as well - including Lamman Rucker - one of the event's hosts. Also, LaChanze Fordjour and so many others were there!

TYREE GUYTON

Shout out to Detroit's Tyree Guyton whose Heidelberg Project Ant and I got to experience while in Detroit a couple of years ago. He's released a new children’s book, Magic Trash, the story of a young Tyree and his beloved grandfather Sam Mackey. The official release date is September 2011, copies are for sale at $16. Go on line http://www.heidelberg.org/index.php?option=com_rokquickcart&view=rokquickcart&Itemid=155 

JENNIFER HOLLIDAY

Did you see my favorite DREAMGIRL Jennifer Holliday on the season finale of Fran Drescher's TV Land series "Happilly Ever After"? Tichina Arnold got to show her chops in this episode as well: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/7/31/crazy-stupid-love.html.

MAMA JUGGS

The New York Mama Juggs Show Tour is up and running at the 15th Annual Fringe NYC! It is billed as “… a trip to Grandma's House You'll never forget!” Check out FringeNYC - The New York International Fringe Festival: http://mamajuggs.com/?tag=the-new-york-international-fringe-festival

WILL HILL

A sad circumstance brought many of my favorite BET people – past and present – back together again - including Quan Lateef; Loren Lillian; Kelli Malcolm; Hershelle Burton; and a host of others. Special shout out to Will Hill who too has brought his talents to ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT in Harlem. Now, he's got new music that is available on Amazon, Rhapsody, and I-Tunes. Check it out! http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/future-fresh-single/id448858048

R.I.P.

Sending love home to Savannah and my cousin Rosa M Brown! I LOVE YOU! And we'll all miss STEVE (R.I.P.)! So many GOOD MEMORIES!

TYLER

My cousin his here! His name is Tyler Maxwell Middleton. WELCOME TYLER & CONGRATS Roc Middleton & Cousin Kea! I LOVE Y'ALL... and can't wait to meet Tyler! XO