A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

Hi folks,

The American Heart Association is presenting “YOU ARE THE POWER” BENEFIT CONCERT – featuring Chrisette Michele – on Friday, May 6 at 8:00 p.m. The Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY is the venue.

I have been hired to be the roving reporter on the star-studded red carpet on that evening. 

Also performing on the bill: Brian Courtney Wilson; and Trin-i-tee 5:7.  Plus, special appearances by Mathew Knowles; Tamron Hall; Malinda Williams; Ruben Santiago Hudson; Tamara Tunie; Jacque Reid; and FELA!s Kevin Mambo. The honorary chair for the event is Cissy Houston.

The concert celebrates the American Heart Association’s “Power to End Stroke” campaign and its many worthy ambassadors. For information about the “Power to End Stroke” campaign, visit www.powertoendstroke.org.

Additionally, my blog “A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities” has been commissioned to send out FOUR dedicated E-BLASTs this month in preparation and promotion of the big benefit concert. And in this inaugural entry, I will share my own special testimonial around STROKE awareness. Please read on.

As always, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Best,

Patrick L. Riley

“A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities”

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/

I watched "strokes" do a 1-2-3 punch on three near-and-dear pillars in my family.  At 65 years of age, my grandmother Saphronia Haynes Bellinger had a stroke in 1974. 72 hours later, she was dead. In 1978, stroke threw a near-fatal blow to her husband Leroy. He survived the stroke for four years --- suffering through an uphill battle of rehabilitation therapy that would eventually have him speaking again (but slowly) and walking again (with assistance). But a second stroke in 1982 would take my middle-namesake down for good. And in the early ‘90s, “Papa” – my Dad’s dad – suffered a stroke and soon thereafter, he passed away.

As evidenced by my own family history, stroke hits close to home – especially in the African American community. Studies show that African Americans are at a greater risk for cardiovascular disease, including stroke, than any other ethnic group. And that’s why the American Heart Association created the “Power to End Stroke” Awards. These folks are leading a new charge to get the word out to the community about stroke awareness, stroke survival, and stroke prevention. And they are encouraging ALL OF US to learn what we can do to stop the cycle.

I checked in with my Auntee Mary Lee (the older sister and only sibling of my mom Queen Elizabeth Riley, who passed away in 1994 to congestive heart failure). At 74, Mary Lee is still alive, alert, and kicking. But she points out to me that she is not here to tell the story without the aid of high-blood pressure medicine and a strict diet regimen. Mary Lee’s two kids – my first cousins; and my two siblings – are in their mid-40s-to-early-50s. Though vibrant and generally healthy, they too are inside pre-emptive efforts to avoid our genetic leaning for stroke by maintaining good blood pressure levels via certain prescriptions; diet awareness; and an exercise plan. Many of the Rileys – including my father – are managing another predictor of stroke crisis: diabetes. 

As for me, I maintain a 29-inch waist that I’ve had since high school and a very active lifestyle. One might think I have little about which to be concerned. That said, I’m not fooling myself into thinking that – at 40 years of age and with the medical family history that I have – that I don’t have to begin my own mission for optimum health – including working out and eating healthier. In fact, on this morning, as tempting and easy as it would be for me to snag a high-calorie breakfast that echoes that best of what Gran Gran used to make, I will substitute turkey bacon for fat back; and wheat toast w/veggie spread in lieu of hot, uber-buttered biscuits.

And the morale of the story for me that I share with my extended family – my clan with whom I share a blood line… and the many sisters and brothers from other mothers – is we all have the POWER to make choices that can support us all to reverse the effects of - and the crisis that is - STROKE.  As we stand on the strong shoulders of our forefathers and foremothers who perhaps didn’t know better, the American Heart Association’s “Power to End Stroke” campaign armors us all to know better and, subsequently, to do better. And be better.

SEE BELOW… FOR MORE TICKET INFORMATION on “YOU ARE THE POWER” BENEFIT CONCERT (featuring Chrisette Michele – on Friday, May 6 at 8:00 p.m.  - at The Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY):

1. By phone call Ticketmaster 1-800-745-3000

2. Online at www.Ticketmaster.com

3. Ticketmaster Outlet (search for Chrisette Michele)

www.ticketmaster.com/event/00004651D154A2C1

4. http://powertoendstroke.org/power-awards-2011.html

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!

EBONY FASHION FAIR

Was asked my thoughts on the cancellation of Ebony Fashion Fair's 4th quarter tour by my NABJ mentor Jackie Jones. Was quoted on Black America Web re: Ebony Fashion Fair cancellation: http://www.blackamericaweb.com/?q=articles/news/moving_america_news/12499 Thanks for calling for my weigh-in, Jackie!:

Patrick Riley, a New York-based independent television producer, pop culture analyst and blogger, said he, too, was mesmerized by the Fashion Fair since childhood.

"Like Ebony and Jet overall, the images of the models in the Ebony Fashion Fair made this little boy from Savannah, Georgia tingle on the inside, much like my icon Diana Ross and her movie 'Mahogany' made me feel," Riley told BlackAmericaWeb.com. "The images were haute couture, European, chic, yet no less African and what we all know our people can be about - from the high-end to the low-end: Dressing sharp and to the nines.”

Riley also said, however, that in addition to the changes in the economy, the audience for the Fashion Fair may be drifting away as well.

“This economy is screwing with more than my bottom line; now it is messing with my Ebony Fashion Fair. And though some may consider the concept 'a dinosaur' in the grand scheme of how people of color are slowly but surely folding into the mainstream, just look to Tyra's 'America's Next Top Model' as modern-day proof of a door that opened on the shoulder-pads of Ebony Fashion Fair," said Riley. "The Ebony Fashion Fair experience is an annual tradition that many of our people look forward to attending. Moreover, it raised lots of money for key charities that impact communities of color."

 “WHY US? LEFT BEHIND & DYING”

For those who remember the late, great Kodjoe, the documentary he was working on, "Why Us? Left Behind & Dying", premiered in L.A. and NYC. Saw it and found it to be a palatable look at AIDS through the eyes & ears of inner-city youth. My college mate Danni went with me. And I got to see Kodjoe’s dear friend and the director of this project, Claudia Pryor (www.diversityfilms.com).IMDB FILM CLIP LINK:

 http://www.imdb.com/rg/VIDEO_PLAY/LINK//video/wab/vi2765881881/

YOU TUBE TRAILER LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9a7_iO48OTY

KARAOKE

Afterwards, Danni and I went to watch a karaoke final at Oil Can Harry's in Studio City. My L.A. buddy (by way of South Carolina), Tony (who hosts the hip hop dance contest I’ve attended at Micky’s in West Hollywood) invited me to support a couple of his friends. I might have to get in the next contest as it’s for $1,000 but over 5 weeks of elimination rounds. The runner up sang my staple “This Woman’s Work”. Perhaps with me singing it, I’d win and take that much needed grand. Stay tuned.

SIDRA

My girl Sidra is heading back to NYC, which is a good thing for when I return. But not so good for the balance of my time here in L.A. because we have been hanging something tight this go around – especially as my weekly wages continue to fast deplete to the budget of a Der Wienerschnitzel patron (of which I’ve become a lifetime member. CHILI DOGS, anyone? LOL!). This, after many-a-long overdue bill gets paid. So, with the pennies that are left, Sid invites me over to her fly Downtown L.A. pad for many-a-wholesome meal (usually of pasta and great seasoning… and – of course - wine).And we watch whatever the appointment television of the evening is: WHITNEY, anyone? MARIAH in Central Park – an audience that I – in part – helped fill as word came down the pike that my friends and I should be in that audience to see MC sing her new single “I Want To Know What Love Is” (Remember my Diana did it at “Motown Returns to the Apollo”? Patti LaBelle - Motown Returns to the Apollo - 1985). There were must-see Michael Jackson reflections like Miss Jackson on the MTV VMA Awards. And on that same show, a self-indulgent moment of brilliance from Madonna (coupled with Kanye’s antics...  and do-no-wrong Beyonce’s graciousness).

And if not being entertained by the folks on the small screen, we have had a cast of characters around who have provided just as much of a show, but in reality. Sidra & I did stumble into an Aussie couple at the Abbey who showed up as quite the sponsors and lovely people. One evening, she had a crew over to watch HBO’s “True Blood” season finale. My buddy Javier popped by on one of the nights as Sid hosted Chrystale (known as “Ronnie” in ‘Players’ Club’). She is currently working on several projects in several media. Stay tuned as I plan to shout her out more. She’s a lovely lady. And on another night, stumbled into Vaughn (KMart's Joe Boxer and now-owner of www.the360mag.com). We were born on the same day (Different years, I suspect. LOL!). ALSO, Jae Joseph was there and he is working with L.A.s Fashion Week. Always a new cast of characters at Sid's spot. Good networking! Good times!

DIANA ROSS HANGOVER

Last Saturday, I headed to North Hollywood for Diana Ross leftovers at friend Curtis' place. You recall, when Ant was here, Curtis (and his lovely brother Walter) threw a DIANA-themed party. Well, we couldn’t look at everything that night as he has quite the collection. So, Curtis provided a stellar DIANA 'hangover' set that was just for us (and a couple of folks who weren’t able to make it the week prior – including Wallace Butts who works side-by-side with Miss Jody Watley, one of my favorites. Wallace and I hit it off… and – of course – I look forward to my one-on-one time with Jody! SMILE!

DINNER & RAIN CHECKS

Had to cancel dinner plans with L.A. bud Nate Parker the other night as the midnight oil burned in the edit bay. But came out of the session with a THUMBS UP from the big bosses. So, good that my reason for being here is landing for now. But I was able to make good on a dinner invite from new L.A. friend Nick (who works for THE GRAMMYs). We met at Aretha Franklin’s post-Hollywood-Bowl-concert party at The Peninsula in Beverly Hills back in June. We hit it off on so many fronts as it relates to our DIVAS out there. So, over turkey burgers at HOME in Los Feliz, we talked all things divas - from our favorite track from Dionne Warwick's "Friends" album, 'Extravagant Gestures' to - this is exciting!: the coming-together of Tamia, Kelly Price, and Deborah Cox as a supergroup the likes of LSG (Levert/Sweat/Gill).

BOWLING WITH THE STARS

Then, since I was near best buds Tony and Scott, they graciously invited me to join them for KiKi Shepard's Bowling fundraiser. It was chockfull of Hollywood's finest - from Dawnn Lewis to Olivia Brown to DJ MC Lyte. Then, one of my "Half & Half" favorites, Chico Benymon (Spencer). Also, Grey's Anatomy star James Pickens, Jackee and her ex-husband Elgin Charles, Kristoff St. John, etc. And a friend Nik (someone to whom my buddy Pete introduced the amazing work of  Momentum Education – www.momentumeducation.com - which Pete and I did together). Nick brought his students from Farmingdale State College (back in NYC) to L.A. to attend his friend Kiki’s event – so as to expose the students to their infinite possibilities. This event benefitted and raises awareness around Sickle Cell. And after that, Scott and Tony took me to Boy Trade at Dragonfly on Santa Monica Blvd – a hot, new spot (for Friday) where many of the ‘brothers’ hang out. THANKS GUYS for allowing me to third leg for the night. We also got some good time in at the Abbey on a Sunday I was called in unexpectedly to manage a quick edit. As my planned day to join Sid and Chrystale at Tischina Arnold's house had been distracted, the call from Scott and Tony to meet them (along with our Ed) at The Abbey was just the book end I needed to say I had a weekend. Again, THANKS GUYS! Hanging close to folks who are like family is key these days.

DIVAS

VH1s DIVAS ran this week with Paula Abdul as host and featuring young’ns like Jennifer Hudson; India.Arie; Kelly Clarkson; Jordin Sparks; Stevie Wonder; etc. A long way from the cache the franchise originally attracted - including DIVAS 2000: A TRIBUTE TO DIANA ROSS. But then again, these ladies are ALL in training - so perhaps this VH1s DIVAS was more like an AFFIRMATION or ASPIRATION. The first DIVAS (as branding goes) – however – is Sheryl Lee Ralph’s DIVAS: SIMPLY SINGING (www.divassimplysinging.com) which takes place Saturday, October 10^th. And Ant is coming back to L.A. to attend this AIDS benefit with me (in its 19^th year of raising awareness and funds for AIDS research and treatment). Yolanda Adams, Frenchie, and Brenda Russell are booked along with a host of usual suspects – like Loretta Devine and Jennifer Lewis. I asked Wallace on my Scott (and Sheryl Lee Ralph’s) behalf if Jody Watley is available. She participated before in 2005 but would be GREAT to see her again in the wake of seeing her in New York City in July. JUST LOVE HER! And a birdie tells me FAITH EVANS is coming aboard. LOVE HER too!

REDIC UNVEILED

My Morehouse brother Redic about whom I’ve blogged many times is here in L.A. And we’ve rekindled our friendship and brother bond since I’ve been here as well. I’ve mentioned to you how proud I am of his art (all of his art). But most importantly, I’m impressed with his kindness, joyfulness, and humility, which he sprinkles throughout everything he does and to everyone with whom he comes into contact. Well, he’s asked me to host the  Grass Roots Grand Opening of Redic

Eclectic Order gallery at 1514 Manchester Avenue. It’s Thursday, September 24^th at 7:00 pm and will feature night one of a two-night event promising high energy inside a cultural extravaganza. On Thursday, there will be visual art, Spoken Word, Jazz & Neo-Soul. Proceeds go towards the Eclectic Order foundation, Morehouse College Fund & Save Africa Children.  Check out HIS promotional video for this event below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpd6PZx1RRY

GIVING BACK

Well, I must say I am impressed with a young Cal State Fullerton student named Mario Davis. He attended the freelance panel on which I sat at NABJ in Tampa. As I coached many on how to network to your optimum, Mario used some of my advice on me. He has proven himself enterprising in remembering that I am temporarily in L.A. So, he’s invited me to be a guest on his radio show that beams out to his campus. Mario says they are the largest enrolled university in California (even more than UCLA). Mario thinks that students can gain valuable knowledge from me alongside being entertained by my unstoppable (often inappropriate) silliness. LOL! Samples of HIS show can be heard on HIS website: www.calldrmario.com

Just click show clips and there you will find a few small clips of the show. Also, check out: www.titanradio.org. The interview is scheduled for the top of October and – according to Mario – will revolve around my accomplishments, advice for upcoming students, and some fun stuff as well. GREAT JOB, MARIO! I look forward to coming to the show!

MICHAEL JACKSON: LEGACY LIVES VIA MKW

In the weeks after Michael Jackson died, my Morehouse brother (and dearest of dear friends) Michael K. Watts received an opportunity to pay tribute to the King of Pop in a way he never dreamed.  The producers of Tavis Smiley's America I AM: The African American Imprint touring exhibition asked him to loan items from his personal music and memorabilia collection for a memorial display.  The exhibition recently installed items from his collection in an elaborate display at the exhibition's current home, the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, helping re-launch the exhibit for the remainder of its run through September 27. Now, to know Michael K. Watts is to know that he has been collecting music and memorabilia of Michael Jackson and countless other recording artists since he was a child.  He always dreamed he would build a big gallery (read: shrine) to exhibit these items in his home for friends and family.  But he never dreamed this level of display and honor to a public audience. He is (and we all are) ecstatic for him. America I AM: The African American Imprint is presented by Tavis Smiley and celebrates nearly 500 years of African American contributions to America.  It is a nearly 15,000 square-foot presentation of pivotal moments in courage, conviction and creativity that celebrate the undeniable imprint of African Americans across the nation and around the world.  Featuring more than 200 extraordinary artifacts, documents, photographs and multimedia, America I AM: The African American Imprint highlights how African Americans have shaped American culture from the nation's beginnings through the present. 

This is exhibit is not to be missed!  The Michael Jackson display is located in the lobby-waiting area just outside the exhibit entrance.  The items on display include: a career-spanning wall of vinyl albums, including a limited edition E.T. Storybook Album; a collector's edition first prining pop-up display of the Dangerous CD; classic magazine covers including EBONY and People; collectible buttons and stickers; tour programs and concert ticket stubs from the three live performances Michael K. Watts himself attended; and many other collectibles. 

Anyone in the Atlanta area or who will be passing through Atlanta in the next few weeks to go see this exhibit.  It runs through Sunday, September 27 at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, 395 Piedmont Avenue, N.E. in Midtown Atlanta.  For ticket information, directions, or parking information, visit www.americaiam.org. 

Exhibition Hours:

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday - 12 noon to 5 p.m.

If you're not in the Atlanta area, the exhibit is traveling the country for the next four years.  But the Michael Jackson display, for now, is only a part of the Atlanta run. GO MICHAEL!!!!!

 MO’NIQUE

As I’ve mentioned here, I Chair the National Association of Black Journalists Arts & Entertainment Task Force. My dear friend Zabrina (PR at BET) called me to see if our NABJ folks could support a couple of events coming up around actress and comedienne Mo’Nique’s new, late night BET show. Though I’m not in NYC or Atlanta (where she’ll be taping), I put a great group together for events in both cities. My Ant attended the New York City “Meet & Greet” at Ashford & Simpson’s Sugar Bar... and he took some of his "Wendy Williams Show" folks as well as our girlfriend Charlie T who took all of the pix you see in this "Mo'Nique" section. THANK YOU, CHARLIE T (Remember? She did these pix of Ant and me: "I HAVE A DREAM TODAY..." ) Too, Ant got to attend our friend Dwight Eubanks’ fashion show. We look forward to seeing Mo’Nique’s show and further exploring ways that we can continue to support her – especially as she is being ‘buzzed’ about for her performance in “Precious” which the NABJ A&E Task Force will also be co-presenting in Chicago, Atlanta, and Baltimore next month. We’ll be hearing a lot about Mo’Nique in the months to come and through 2010. And a CONGRATS to MO'NIQUE (and my girlfriend Denise who is producing on that show now)! 

DREAMGIRLS AT THE APOLLO

Everyone knows I’m a “fool” for DREAMGIRLS! Remember when I saw it 5 times before it came out and 16 times before January wrapped when it first came out? And how excited was I to interview Jennifer Hudson before any of the buzz started when she came to NABJ in Indianapolis with DREAMGIRLS clips, a few songs, and her fun personality in tow. Well, Ant has begun to organize my WELCOME HOME/BIRTHDAY EXTRAVAGANZA which he says MUST include us seeing the limited engagement of DREAMGIRLS that is running at the APOLLO – beginning November 7^th. My birthday is November 19^th. Not sure when I get back home (if November and not December). But regardless, I look forward to seeing the show and sharing it with all my loved ones back home. Dreamgirls will introduce Moya Angela as Effie White and feature, as The Dreams, Syesha Mercado (“American Idol”) as Deena Jones; and Adrienne Warren as Lorrell Robinson. Please visit the Dreamgirls website at www.dreamgirlsonstage.com for more information as I hear they are incorporating the new movie music into this staged version. www.ticketmaster.com/venue/6 Truly something to look forward to as I put one foot in front of the other to wrap up this project and plant my feet on the ground of my home and my arms around my Ant and my family and friends back East. 

Oh, by the way: Could I have a nephew who is 21 years old today???? A Senior at my alma mater Morehouse who is about to embark on a promising career and life of abundance, creativity, and sophistication????? Is it possible????? Time to shave the salt-and-peppers away from my chin... and moisturize my smooth and youthful skin... just so no one gets it twisted! LOL! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NOOT! I LOVE YOU!

As you know, I've been on the road for work. NYC/NJ is my home and that’s where my man Ant is. He came from our home in NYC/NJ to see me (bearing gifts: new disposable camera. See pix! SMILE!). I couldn't stop posing!

Best friend since 7^th grade, Ern, came too. We had a great weekend all around - from the moment they landed. This weekend gave me the chance to reconnect with Ern’s cousin Adolpha, who is in the business as well (working for Fantasia’s reality show now in addition to her work as a screenwriter and stand-up comic). She took Ern and me to O Bar in West Hollywood the night prior to Ant’s arrival (after Ern and I did lunch at “Roscoe’s Chicken ‘n Waffles”). Adolpha and her husband Nyk took Ern and me to Casablanca, a restaurant with 300-types of tequilas. And they invited us to Adolpha’s friend Jackie’s home in The Valley for a super fun pool party! We ate! We danced! And really enjoyed the energy of some good people! On the night Ant arrived, we met up with Ern and Adolpha at a spot in Santa Monica called Air Conditioned.

We went to my girlfriend Sidra's Downtown L.A. pad for rooftop swimming and brunch. Tony and Scott joined us there along with Ern.

My friend Curtis threw a Diana-Ross-themed house party with every Ross-rarity you could ask for. “Eyebrow King” Damone Roberts and his partner Ramon were in the house as well as our Tony & Scott. Curtis (and his brother Walter) were truly the hosts with the most – weaving all things Ross (from the 60s through to the new millennium). And we're talking rare videos, CDs, and glorious artwork well-appointed throughout their lovely home. There will be many-a-follow-up in the coming weeks. Thanks Curtis! Friend to Friend.

On Sunday of the weekend, Ant – an artist – and I got to meet up with my Morehouse brother Redic at his art gallery Eclectic Order which will be holding its Grassroots Grand Opening in a few weeks (inclusive of fine art, great new music from Redic – also a singer/songwriter, and T-shirts that come from Redic’s clothing line). He’s such the talented “Renaissance Man”! I’m so proud to have discovered his talent freshman week at Morehouse (I was a Senior – assigned to cast the Freshman Week talent show. I booked Redic along with four other voices to make a group ‘Just Us” (they called themselves). This way, more of them could make the cut and have their talents be heard. And beyond that first week of school, I managed to book them a handful more times before the year was done. And look at him now!!!! WOW! This is the same talent show in which I cast Rockmond Dunbar, freshman as well, to do a monologue for the masses. He went on to do his thing. Okay????? And he's stayed in touch over the years. I'm PROUD of my guys!!!

Then, Ant and I went to meet up with Scott, Tony, Ed, Delandis, and others at The Abbey. AWESOME WEEKEND!

Ant and I are looking at October for a return visit. Last year, we supported Sheryl Lee Ralph in booking Ledisi on her “Divas: Simply Singing” fundraiser that she does every October (For more information visit www.DivasSimplySinging.com). Well, since I’m here, we’re thinking this is a good time for us to get our visit in alongside an event.

For me to be adjusting to the West Coast (albeit temporary), I'm thrilled to have folks with Southern Hospitality showing me love: Delandis (SC) introduced me to Tony (SC) who invited me to Mickys in WeHo for the dance contest he hosts on Tuesday. Ran into another "Wicked" dancer Evereth (FL) who I met the other night. And before I knew it: We all had a lovely night! Thanks guys!

Did y'all see Whitney on GMA? (I got an 11th hour call to support her other upcoming interview but am in L.A. on assignment. Another close call to again be in Whitney’s presence but so far away...). New voice. Old voice. I'm sure rooting for Whitney and LOVE a comeback!

And since I don't have BET in my temp digs, what did y'all think of "Frankie & Neffe" - Episode 2? HOLLA! They are still kicking butt in the ratings as they did my own butt during the time I spent field producing them over five weeks in Atlanta. MAN DOWN!!!! CODE 10!!!!!

So, check out “Out” magazine (www.out.com) this month (http://www.out.com/detail.asp?id=25657
). I am featured in the lead story photo inside the current issue which profiles Food Network star Sandra Lee (page 51): http://www.zinio.com/reader.jsp?issn=1062-7928 (click on the page at the bottom of the screen). You may recall, I shot it last year. I met Sandra Lee one night at a NYC cocktail party hosted by a friend.On this night, Sandra asked me to come visit her photo shoot for OUT Magazine the following day as I knew her publicist Audra. Upon my arrival to the photo studio, she asked if I'd join the shoot as she had - since the night prior - been going goo-goo and ga-ga over my ---- get this ---- cheekbones. Suddenly, I was being whisked away from the kraft service table into wardrobe, hair, and makeup. QUITE THE RUSH! Well, here it is: http://www.zinio.com/reader.jsp?issn=1062-7928And this is how I blogged about it last year: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/15/butterflies-begin-from-having-been-another.html R.I.P. to E. LYNN HARRIS: Without him, I may not have ever gotten to the point where I would agree to do such a shoot. His works - from "Invisible Life" to the present - helped me EMBRACE MY TRUTH... and helped me be PROUD about who I am - for "the world to know"! I am HAPPY and HUMBLED to be a part of this layout as perhaps the extent of the diversity on the particular page.

Another highlight from the last couple of weeks was being able to do a few days of business back in New York City (as I’ve been holed up in Atlanta on a project featuring singer Monica).I can’t detail all the goings on but you’ll be able to see it yourself come October on BET. The best part is I got the chance to see Ant as we were put up at The Hudson Hotel (www.hudsonhotel.com) - a stone’s throw from his day work on “The Wendy Williams Show” (www.wendyshow.com).I got the chance to introduce Ant to Monica. And we got the chance to introduce to Monica my nephew Noot, who has been the Grammy-award-winning diva’s #1 fan for many years.In addition to a reality show, Monica has a new CD coming out… and I trust it to be a big hit for her. Though work, great to share it with my guys.In between our long-in-the-tooth shooting days, Ant and I got to hang out a little – including some time at my old stomping ground for ‘intimate evenings of song’ The Duplex (http://216.117.188.141/rileyshowforkodjoe.wmv). My “Broadway baby love” Ken Roberson performed The Wiz’s “If You Believe” and Pippin’s “Magic To Do” for the spirited crowd. We also got to hang out with our friends at spots like “Nowhere” and “Splash”.But we had a blast hanging in Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn (www.fortgreenepark.org) with Ant’s Denver buddies Manivone, Chris, Reggie, and many others.On this night, we enjoyed a taste of Greek cuisine at a neighborhood spot (juxtaposed to now-old-hat-soul-food–since–in-Atlanta from Amy Ruth --- www.amyruthsharlem.com) and we even got a little karaoke in at our favorite spot One 7 (www.karaoke17.com). While in NYC working, I got access to Whitney Houston’s listening party. However, scheduling didn’t allow me to attend.Still, New York City provided me lots of pleasure – including a quick visit with my Detroit buddy Greg Dunmore with whom I spent lots of quality time on my last leg of L.A. (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/6/23/hes-hoppin-it-to-hollywood.html). We dined at the Hudson Hotel’s “Kitchen”. Check out Greg’s HAT CONTEST PROMO for Aretha’s SOLD-OUT Detroit Fox date from a week or so ago: www.youtube.com/?v=m1pjxxPOVso.

I have been working alongside Monica for the last month and change (not to mention the chance to work with some of the best and most kind folks in the business).And on top of that, there have been some additional, personal highlights to my time here.I was excited to get the chance to warm up for an exclusive performance she recently did at my Morehouse brother Christian Ruffin’s place “The View” (www.TheViewatKingPlow.com).His One Stop Productions company (www.OneStopProduction.com) managed the sound, lighting, staging, etc. for the affair. Though in place as a stretching mechanism for Monica’s fab costume changes, it was good to be on the stage and to be given an opportunity to let my personality shine through.I sang too! Lots of fun.Plus, I got to invite some dear friends out – including my homegirl from Savannah (READ: elementary school) Tonja (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/26/its-good-to-be-black.html).She brought her husband Andrew who is managing a music group 430 that is creating quite the buzz on the charts and on the road as they prepare to tour stateside and internationally (www.myspace.com/4thirty). Tonja also proved herself quite the “A Day in the Life of Riley” correspondent as she also took this pic at our high school classmate Anthony David’s recent Atlanta set that I couldn’t attend due to scheduling (www.anthonydavidmusic.com/).Also, my girl Elise – Media Relations Manager at Morehouse (www.morehouse.edu) - came and enjoyed the show along with Morehouse brother Jabez Shakur (www.marooninstitute.com). And amidst our preps for this project, Monica’s makeup artistChristian – also a friend of my L.A. buddies Scott and Tony – and I got to enjoy some lovely meals at two ATL hot spots: “Geisha House” (www.dolcegroup.com) and “Two Urban Licks” (www.twourbanlicks.com).He's been an awesome host to me - and not always as over as the accompanying picture, but always cute, fly, and so cool!

I also got some quality time with family and friends. My brother Herman, sister Janice, and I got the chance to spend some quality sibling time together. Of course, we did one of our favorite things to do: EAT. First, Houston’s (www.hillstone.com). Then, Busy Bee (for banana pudding): www.thebusybeecafe.com. Also, we got the chance to memorialize Michael Jackson (as a family) since he was such a part of our growing up.We met him on Norton Air Force Base in San Bernadino, CA at an airplane expo: The Thunderbirds. Also, we shared an audience with him at Magic Mountain for a Sylvers Concert.Then, there are the Jacksons/solo shows we've attended in addition to one moment in Atlanta when I got to meet him at The Omni for a charity benefit at which he made an appearance with TLC. Oh! And I attended that pre-9/11 30th Anniversary concert in September of 2001.We played Michael all day and night long which brought a bit of closure to The King of Pop’s passing (I wondered why I hadn’t quite gotten over it yet. I was waiting on this moment with my brother and sister.). Janice, cousin Floyd, and I got the chance to do a meal at “Six Feet Under” (www.sixfeetunderatlanta.com) followed by a screening of DVD “Madea Goes To Jail” (www.madeagoestojailmovie.com/).

And my friends popped by too – including my Morehouse brother Khalid with whom I enjoyed Ron Winans and Gladys Knight Chicken ‘n Waffles (www.gladysandron.net).Also, on the Morehouse tip, I stumbled into my Spelman sister Laura Morse while in the Atlanta airport. Always good to see my peeps.And Morehouse brother Michael K. Watts was in town for business but made it his business to see me (in a very small window of time).He’s been doing some awesome work with his writing (as his Maxwell interview is featured in this month’s UPSCALE Magazine – www.upscalemagazine.com).But Michael is also doing some awesome work inside his longstanding brand as a collector of pop culture memorabilia. Stay tuned for more details on this special way in which Michael Jackson’s #1 fan is being a stand for the great entertainer’s legacy.

And there was lots of fun to be had at Midown Tavern (www.midtowntavern.net) where our friend Anthony Hill, head writer for Tyler Perry’s “Meet The Browns” (www.tbs.com/shows/meetthebrowns) invited us to karaoke.I experimented on Diana’s “Waiting in the Wings” (www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAVA6kBZ73Q). Anthony and I did The Spinners “Games People Play” (www.youtube.com/watch?v=5znh58WITU8). I got a showstopper in: Mariah Carey’s “Can’t Let Go” (www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLkwbUPfk3g).And SWV’s LeLee (my colleague Shareen’s buddy) was in the house. Shareen introduced us on our last stint in Atlanta.

Meanwhile, You recall I told you about Laurent Korcia earlier this year (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/1/14/through-the-mirror-of-my-mindi-see-reflections-of-you-and-me.html). Well, here’s a link to a recent NPR story on him: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106479206 His CD is coming out next week.

And one of my favorite New York City editors Kerry Soloway has some great programming coming on Public TV soon (www.NightingaleEditorial.com). It’s a Great Performances “Harlem in Montmartre”. Check it out!And my girlfriend Paula Witt is a part of a speakers’ bureau and spreading positive messages all over the world via “Truth Be Told Speakers” (www.truthbetoldspeakers.com). CONGRATS!

… and as I come to the end of this leg of my Atlanta stint, I head home for a few days.I’ll take a little breather, though will still be prepping for NABJ in Tampa (www.nabj.org) and my two-month stint in L.A. for which I still am trying to identify a place to stay. And when I get a moment in, I am simply counting my blessings!