A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

Ant and I have just returned from Detroit where we had the privilege of being guests of Ms. Aretha Franklin at her birthday party. The journey to get there wasn’t a logical one but a fun one. You see ‘what had happened was’: my friend Greg Dunmore about whom I write all the time is my friend and Co-Chair for the National Association of Black Journalists’ Arts & Entertainment Task Force (www.nabj.org). We’ve been friends for well over a decade now. And Greg knows everybody – including Ms. Franklin and many in her camp. Apparently, “The Queen of Soul” enjoyed seeing a novelty YOU TUBE act "Secret Trois" (www.myspace.com/secrettrois)/(www.youtube.com/user/SecretTrois)

on TYRA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S26JGkjAUMQ) and wanted them booked for her show. Her folks got in touch with me to see if I could find them. I let my fingers do the talking via My Space and You Tube, and the next thing you know is I’m being asked to represent these three, beautiful, full-figured women as they work through contracts, set lists, travel, and other logistics to be able to give a command performance for ‘The Queen’. Shelia, the mother of one of the members Shenelle, was my partner for each step of this process. She helped us assess many things while the ladies practiced and practiced and practiced. They rehearsed really hard and thoroughly to ensure things would pop off something fabulous for Re (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uuxQFEOzcc). A month would pass by quickly and it was time to head on to Motown, also the home of another undeniable diva, my Diana Ross, who too has a birthday in the neighborhood of Ms. Franklin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uuLpQgv7fU). But my sources tell me Miss Ross went the route of Blockbuster (by way of L.A.) to celebrate her special 65th birthday: http://www.thelifefiles.com/diana-ross-goes-to-blockbuster-video-on-her-birthday/.

On a snowy Friday morning, Ant accompanied me as I needed him to chronicle the weekend as he often does for the blog. Also, he worked closely with the audio guy on cues, fade outs, and reprises while I dealt with “Secret Trois” directly. Our limo driver Vincent picked us up and offered us his own ‘reflections’ of Detroit as he was born and bred. He says he went to school with The Enchantments (www.soulwalking.co.uk/Enchantment.html). His classmates were also the members of Dawn, Joyce Vincent Wilson and Telma Hopkins (as in Addy from “Gimme A Break” and Mona’s mother Phyllis from “Half & Half”) – both of whom sang behind Tony Orlando. Vincent says his Motown favorites are Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and Smokey Robinson (who – with Berry Gordy – is coaching the “American Idol” (www.americanidol.com) cast. It's a “Motown 50” theme night (www.motown50.com/)). We absolutely LOVED our hotel, The Mariott Reinaissance (www.marriott.com) which soars 73 floors high, offering a view of the Detroit River which separates Detroit from Windsor, Canada.

We got the chance to meet “Secret Trois” and Shelia for the first time on this night, though we all felt like long-lost cousins since we’d been in touch non-stop via phone, texting, email, and all other modes of cyber-communication over the last month. From the Marriott’s lounge we got everything prepped for the big show the next day. The ladies – Shenelle, Brittany, and Ashley – were a total joy with which to work. They were sweet and humble; smart and insightful; fun and loving. And Shenelle’s mother Shelia was ‘the bomb’! We LOVED them. After we took some time to get to know them, I made sure the girls were going to get a good night’s rest while Greg alerted us we had one more stop to make before he, Ant, and I could call it a night.

One of Greg’s clients and friends, noted performance artist Ziam, wanted to show us all a good time. He's quite the social and artistic muse of Detroit's social scene. And one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. I blogged about him before and we’ve spoken on the phone via Greg many times as Ziam is my spiritual Diana Ross soul mate. He performs all over Detroit in high-concept shows that explore sexuality and glamour – always an electric mix of fashion, song and movement (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/11/12/manifest-destiny-destination-manila.html). The spot is a loft space near which neo-soulster Dwele lives. Everyone was so nice and we enjoyed lovely buffet of food; flowing cocktails; and the best music. DJ Darryl proved himself a ‘house music’ genius as he rocked the best remixes of Miss Ross and her song architects Ashford & Simpson – including my favorite “The Boss” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2D2L0SspO7s). And you must know that had Ziam, the many attendees, and me working that dance floor overtime!!! Say what you will about Detroit, but we were having a GREAT TIME so far!

Earlier, Greg had taken us to Royal Oak, Michigan to enjoy a Belgian-inspired bite at Bastone Brewery (www.bastone.net). And though Greg would offer up a well-lit tour of Detroit’s finest landmarks before our weekend wrapped, we did a bulletproof, drive-by version through Diana’s childhood home The Brewster Projects; Hitsville; Garden Court (which is supposed to be Martin’s apartment on the hit sitcom); WGPR (home of Shaun Robinson’s start in the TV business – www.shaunrobinson.com); and on and on and on. I LOVE DETROIT – and so does Ziam, though he joked when I told him we went through the Brewster Projects “Did you get cut while you were riding through the Brewster Projects?” he asked with a cheshire laugh.  Then, he finished his line: “Well, I hope you told them ‘If you must cut me, make it in a “D” – for “Diana”!!!!!’. Isn’t he a hoot? (Of course, I’d have been honored to be cut in an “A” for “Aretha” or “Q” for the “Queen” if cutting is at all necessary and inside of my reverence for that awesome diva!).

For rehearsal, the next day, the ladies were on time and ready to go through the paces to ensure their royal performance reigned supreme: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ2385evPmY. We worked out their entrances and the pacing of their set (which was comprised of routines that they’d performed before and a new song that they put a routine together for Ms. Franklin). We figured out where we’d put their mic and the costumes that they’d be adding to the number they enter in. And the folks at Seldom Blues (www.seldomblues.com) – an elegantly appointed supper club in the Renaissance Center – were awesome and accommodating. Owner Frank Taylor was not only responsible for the delicious spread of steak, lobster, spinach, etc. on which we nibbled at Ms. Franklin’s party, but he also was responsible for some brunch that Greg, Ant, and I had at “Detroit’s Breakfast House & Grill” (www.detroitbreakfasthouse.net). Because of Greg, “Secret Trois” even got some press that I can’t wait to share with you at a later date. Greg and Joel produced a piece on them – giving the ladies their first experience with interviewing and talking points. Though they were on their own for the interview (notwithstanding a few coaching points I offered them), I did produce and script their set which included:

1. Dramatic entrance from stage left (They weren’t seen at all before they hit the stage)

2. “SECRET TROIS" is doing 1^st routine to an excerpted "Miss Independent” by Neyo (special request for Ms. Franklin)

3. ASHLEY banter (paraphrased): "Thank you so much! We are "SECRET TROIS". [She introduces the other ladies and herself by name]. Ms. Franklin, we are so happy that you saw us on THE TYRA BANKS SHOW. And we are even happier that you liked what you saw. Nothing against TYRA - nor MTV where we also did a little bit - but being here to perform for you, THE QUEEN OF SOUL, is - by far - SECRET TROIS' HIGHLIGHT – the icing on the cake!!!! (To The Audience) NOW, ARE THERE ANY SINGLE LADIES OUT THERE? WELL, PUT YOUR HANDS UP!!!!!!!!!!!!" (their cue for their now-famous “Single Ladies” routine)

4. "Single Ladies” - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uuxQFEOzcc

5. "SECRET TROIS" receive their applause; quickly get their tutus and wrap them around their waists. ASHLEY picks up her banter: "Ms. Franklin! We're sure you can appreciate that we women here in SECRET TROIS are what some might call MODERN! We have our blackberries, our YOU TUBE channel, a MYSPACE page-per-lady (and one for the group). And don't forget FACEBOOK! But we appreciate something about you that we researched ---- through GOOGLE! It's that you have an appreciation for the classic artforms like OPERA and BALLET. Now, we won't sing an ARIA for you right now (We'll leave that to you!). But for our next and final routine, we will showcase our TUTUs as a shout out to you - OUR FAVORITE DIVA!!!!"

6. "SECRET TROIS" performs its final routine:"DIVA" BY BEYONCE - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niEfEdvLWI0

7. Then, “Single Ladies” reprises as they leave the stage

We opted out of having them perform these numbers:

"CIRCUS" BY BRITNEY SPEARS - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2WEQe2IqYwg

"SHAKE TO THE GROUND" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47SGfpTXf1Y

Ms. Franklin had a smile on her face all up and through their performance. She was truly pleased... and though the girls were being critical of this flub and that trip (none of which I noticed), they were happy that it went over well... and even more happy that it was over. So, they went up to their respective rooms and got changed – so they could enjoy the party and receive their growing following. And Ant and I did the same. Greg and dear friend Earline who too was a key part of the planning escorted us through the room to meet Detroit's finest. Earline also kept me sane through this process (as I’ve never managed anybody nor myself – for that matter – before). I couldn't have done this without Earline's priceless advisement and expertise. It was nice to take in the room. Though we’d already had a nice time with Ms. Franklin, we took a moment to pose with her cake. Aretha commissioned not only a spotlight cake to be designed like the church hat she wore for Obama (a la Mr. Song Millnery - www.mrsongmillinery.com). But she also had mini-versions done as a guest-gift take-away. Too, there was a parade of cakes all decorated in a tribute to her family - including her son Kelf and grandson Jordan - both rappers. Lots of her local celebs were there to toast her - from Judge Mathis to Keith Washington... to MOTOWN legend Martha Reeves (who chirped an impromptu, a cappella Happy Birthday to Ms. Franklin a la her days at the helm of the legendary Vandellas). It was also great to see Greg's mom and star client Ms. Jo Thompson who is heading to New York City to perform her brilliant evening of song and piano. Fantasia was to actually sing it but her flight was delayed.  Kenny Lattimore and Raheim Devaughn serenaded The Queen in their respectively unique and soulful sounds. And another YOU TUBE sensation Iman who did his Obama impression (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y1OOh6Ezjs) – twice. Luther Vandross' best friend Fonzi Thornton was in the room (wish he would have sung as well). Also there: songwriter/producer Michael Powell (known for work with Anita Baker and others); boxing champ Tommy Hearns (among many of his other colleagues from the ring); and comedian/actor Mike Epps who took some time to pose with the girls. The space featured a bright array of oversized floral centerpieces and a regal ice sculptor in front of which Ant and I did a photo-op. Also, Re commissioned a man-made beach with a crew of NYC models in swimwear - just sitting and standing pretty. "The Queen of Soul" was a gorgeous vision in a white, spaghetti strapped number that was fitted and cinched from bust to waist w/long train of white ostrich feathers. She actually looked nice and elegant. Speaking of elegance, Miss Maxine Powell attended. You'll recall, she headed up Motown's Artist Development - preparing the Motown roster to thrive on-and-offstage. She trained them all to know that they would turn the heads of kings and queens one day.  And of course, Greg wouldn’t let us just call it a night. Actually, Ant and I needed a snack for as plentiful as the buffet was, we weren’t able to hone in on a full meal for all of the work we were doing to ensure Secret Trois’ performance went off without a hitch. So, Como’s Pizzeria (www.buddyspizza.com) was our spot and – boy – was it packed! It set the night off just right!

On the next day, we got some quiet time with friend Earline at her beautiful home and a hometown breakfast at Clique (www.reviews.metroguide.com). (By the way, Earline’s daughter (Aretha’s niece) Crystal is getting ready to launch her own handbag line and a number of other creative wares. Please follow her at www.cfranks.com)). Greg also took Ant and me on our daylight tour of Motown. And I was like a kid in a candy store. We went to the Roostertail (www.roostertail.com/). It is a high-end supper club where Diana and the girls used to perform. Berry Gordy readied them for The Copa at spots like this (en route to New York City). Then, one of the first grand entrances Miss Ross has ever made was here at Cass Tech High School. Miss Ross was Best Dressed and a costume illustration major. Ross’ first press came from The Michigan Chronicle per Rita Griffin, legendary journalist that Greg and I had the privilege to honor as one of our NABJ A&E Task Force “Legacy Award” recipients. Also, for Ant, Greg took us to hang out with artist Tyree Guyton (www.tyreeguyton.com/) and (www.heidelberg.org/). His art is headquartered on a two-block lot. He has artfully turned abandoned houses and vacant lots into polka-dot landscapes, gaily painted faces on car hoods salvaged from scrap yards, brightly-colored, laced shoes suspending from tree branches, etc. It’s raw. It’s animated. It’s rough. It’s childlike. It’s beautiful. And we were thrilled to chat with him. Ant and he got to wax philosophical for a moment about art. Tyree said “Art is like having sex!!!” Well, he sure had my attention at that point. And at closer inspection to his metaphor, it landed. And Greg wouldn’t be Greg without a history lesson – so Hitsville wouldn’t do because I know everything there is to know about that spot. But I didn’t know that The Fisher Theater (www.nederlanderdetroit.com/) is the home of the world premiere of Broadway giants “The Wiz” (choreographed to Tony-winning heights by my friend George Faison)... and “Hello Dolly”. Still, MOTOWN – the building – was my full circle moment. Ant loved it being there as well. From the Berry Gordy street sign... to the stoop out front... to the window showcasing all of my favorite stars (except Ms. Aretha, who many don’t realize was not a MOTOWN Records act)... and the threshold to STUDIO A. It all punctuated the weekend something lovely!!!!

The LORD is surely steering me in a bunch of directions to make ends meet, y'all hear????? And this trip put a little something in my pocket and a provided me a lot of something for my sometimes increasingly  depleting morale. As I count my blessings, I'm reminded that - as many things challenge me - many things are working and I'm just allowing it all to work through me to whatever the next frequency will be. THANK YOU “SECRET TROIS”! THANK YOU MOTOWN! THANK YOU, ARETHA FRANKLIN!!!! YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

“FATHER, HELP YOUR CHILDREN AND DON'T LET THEM FALL BY THE SIDE OF THE ROAD...”

I wrote about the song “Jesus is Love” a couple of years ago (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/7/20/roots-the-next-generations-and-the-melody-lingers-on.html) and its presence in my life on the day my mother died. Now, it’s been remade by Heather Headley and Smokie Norful (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6SGBqMmyHM). I like the remake. As it was piping from a car radio recently, I was riding in the backseat of a car – cruising along 125^th Street. When I became aware and awakened to this now-positively post-traumatic moment, I looked up to find that we were getting ready to pass a building that inhabits my family’s denomination The United House of Prayer for All People. Something in that moment made me do something I hadn’t done with that song the times I’ve heard it since July 20, 1994: I smiled. Still, a tear dropped.

"... AND TEACH THEM TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER..."

I do feel as if I continue to be “helped” by forces bigger than me and far off into the distance yet right next to me:

• Ant and I are preparing to go to Detroit this weekend for Ms. Aretha Franklin’s birthday party. There’s much more to the story that I will have to share later. But TRUST! It’s a BLESSING... and a TOTAL HONOR! Plus, we’ll get the chance to see our Greg Dunmore who just recently did a feature on jazz great Harvey Thompson (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNHUZ5k05WM) via his Jazz Jewels TV, which proves jazz is truly an international language. Harvey salutes one of Japan's hottest jazz clubs, the Sone Jazz Club located in Kobe.
• As certain clients have been able to outsource my services more of late, I’m happy to say I’ve attracted a special project my way that – for 10 weeks – will have me in Atlanta and Los Angeles. Though not optimum to be away from Ant and our home for that window of time, the wages are welcome and much needed for us to catch up with our arrears. And when I can tell you more, I will. But, TRUST that it is a GOOD, CREATIVE FIT that you will all be able to see sometime later this year! STAY TUNED!
• In the words of Rupaul: “BB, life isn’t always fair... I have two words :Extravaganza! Eleganza!” Not sure what that meant. But let me tell you - it made me laugh each and every time I played TIVO back to repeat it: www.logoonline.com/shows/dyn/rupauls_drag_race/videos.jhtml This, before each of the bottom two lipsync'd for their life via Mary Mary's "Shackles". 

"... HEAVEN  MIGHT FIND A PLACE IN THEIR HEART..."

Meanwhile, BLESSINGS ABOUND all around for many! Let me catch you up!

Firstly:

• A shout out to our South African girlfriend Melony who invited “my Amazing Grace” Nichole, Ant, and me to her NYC home for a lovely meal. Got to see Johnna and several others from her circles. Always a good time!
• Though we didn’t get to see our Jason, we got some great hang time with Marqice in he and Jason’s Queens’ home.
• We got quality time with Charlie T; Danielle; Karu; and Kevin-Anthony at THE GOOD NEGRO at the Public Theater (www.publictheater.org). Kevin-Anthony will be celebrating his birthday with a performance on Monday, April 6th, 2009 @ The Triad in NYC (www.triadnyc.com). He will be recording a live CD that evening. So bring your energy and love in the house that evening as this is Kevin-Anthony’s 1st CD. For tickets:http://www.smarttix.com/show.aspx?showCode=KEV5 or call 212.868.4444 and check out his new blog site:http://b2productions.wordpress.com/2009/02/22/kevin-anthony-birthday-show/

"...WE'VE GOT TO WALK ON, WALK ON THROUGH TEMPTATION..."

Kevin-Anthony was also featured on “HARLEM HEIGHTS” this week on BET (www.bet.com/OnTV/BETShows/harlemheights). His recent BLACK 2: Broadway event last November was featured on the show. Without blinking, you can see Ant, Ern, Kimberly Jajuan, and me in the background at the VIP reception that preceded the awesome showcase on the Schomberg stage. Keep tuning into “Harlem Heights” as you’re bound to see us again (We’ve been hanging with this crew a bit – socially). But also, my good girlfriend/acting coach Tracey Moore-Marable will be sharing her “The Spirited Actor” philosophy on the show (www.thespiritedactor.com/).

"... HIS LOVE AND WISDOM WILL BE OUR HELPING HAND..."

It’s still not too late to join Ant and me at “Inked Baby”. It’s Sunday, March 29^th and IF YOU'RE STILL GAME, DON'T FORGET TO SEND YOUR CHECKS TO THE ADDRESS BELOW ASAP - TO ENSURE THE GROUP RATE OF $30 **** (SEE DETAILS BELOW. That's a $20 discount... and LACHANZE says she will join us for an after-show cocktail!!! By the way, check out the link to her new CD, an EP of awesome songs from her repertoire. Entitled "Love LaChanze," the CD can be purchased by visiting iTunes (www.iTunes.com) or Amazon (www.Amazon.com).

Here’s how it works:

1. Commit to attend the Sunday, March 29th /7:30 pm “INKED BABY” starring Tony-award-winning LACHANZE at Playwrights Horizons (416 West 42nd Street close to 9th Avenue)

2. By Tuesday, March 24th: Send a $30 check (per person) payable to:

WALK TALL GIRL PRODUCTIONS

1375 BROADWAY

3RD FLOOR

NEW YORK, NY 10018

Phone: 646-467-7393 or 917-334-6492

MEMO: 3/29 INKED BABY w/PAT & ANT

*** THAT'S A $20 DISCOUNT VIA THIS GROUP RATE!!!!! ***

3. After you do that, PLEASE let me know that you will be joining us via patarack_riley@yahoo.com

4. On Sunday, March 29th, let’s meet at 6:30 pm – so I can personally ensure your tickets get to you. Showtime is 7:30 pm. It’s about 90 minutes – so will wrap about 9:00 pm.

And my friend LACHANZE has agreed to join us across the street for a quick cocktail at:

THE WEST BANK CAFÉ

407 W. 42nd Street

New York, NY 10036

Phone: 212-695-6909

"... LIFT UP OUR HEARTS TO BE THANKFUL AND GLAD..."

Since I wrote about Ms. Melinda Doolittle last month (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/2/2/we-will-find-a-way.html), her fans have become readers of my blog. One fan, Louise, asks me to hip you folks to one of Melinda’s fansites: www.melindasbackups.com

"...I WANNA FOLLOW YOUR STAR WHEREVER IT LEADS..."

My friend Shaun Robinson may want to reach out to Melinda as an example of a great role model. This could be for the follow up to her debut tome for young girls, “Exactly As I Am” (www.randomhouse.com). Celebrated women share candid advice with today's girls on what it takes to believe in yourself. I’ve worked alongside Shaun via our National Association of Black Journalists’ annual convention programming (www.nabj.org) and I couldn’t be more proud of her. She’s heading to NYC soon and I’ll get to buy the book and congratulate her in person.

My dear industry friends Kirsten Poe Hill & Renée E. Warren (pictured on right) are now published authors. We all have CNBC in our roots. They left just before I started there in the mid-90s to start their business. When I left CNBC a few years later, their media consulting firm became a safe place for me as a freelancer (who wrote, pitched, and promoted on their company Noelle-Elaine’s behalf – www.noelle-elaine.com) but I also had the chance to hire them for their services via volunteer work I did with one of their major clients The New York Association of Black Journalists (www.nyabj.org). Fast forward 15 years and you’ve got “You Buy the Peanut Butter, I’ll Get the Bread: The Absolutely True Adventures of Best Friends in Business”. It hits book shelves on March 31^st.

To purchase the book, visit one of the book stores below:

http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=0452290147

http://www.amazon.com/You-Buy-Peanut-Butter-Bread/dp/0452290147/

http://www.powells.com/cgi-bin/biblio?isbn=9780452290143

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbninquiry.asp?ean=9780452290143

http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9780452290143?id=4205521630491

http://www.www.indiebound.org http://www.www.indiebound.org/

Catch them at one of the following book signings:

Baltimore, MD March 31, 2009

Chevy Chase, MD April 1, 2009

Washington, DC April 3, 2009

Harlem, NY April 15, 2009

New York City, NY April 16, 2009

More locations to come ...

For more information, visit: www.peanutbutterbreadbook.com

"...I WANNA WALK WITH YOU AND TALK WITH YOU AND DO ALL THE THINGS YOU WANT ME TO DO..."

CONGRATS to Sheila E who took home the “Gone Country” prize this season (www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/gone-country/series.jhtml) with grace, a competitive edge, loads of talent, and spirituality.  And already the rollercoaster of “American Idol” (www.americanidol.com/) is throwing viewers – like me – for a loop with its new judge, new rules, new surprises. After seeing the Top 13’s take on a “Jackson 5” medley, Ant reminded me that A.I. was showing up where “Kids Incorporated” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3i00ieI3UI) meets “Star Search” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZyjSuOrRBw). And like “Gone Country” (under the category of WHO KNEW I’D BE TUNING INTO CMT?), I hear there’s another show that I haven’t seen that I should be watching: “Kitchen Nightmares” with Gordon Ramsay (www.fox.com/kitchennightmares/). Anybody seen it? Worth my time or squeezing the already-exhausted memory of my antiquated TIVO?

"... WHO CAN BRING YOU LOVE?..."

My good girlfriend Juanita Stephens (who you recall had a lovely dinner recently where she brought journalists together with another of her clients Kindred) is working with her sister publicist Karen Lee on Charlie Wilson’s new project ‘Uncle Charlie’ (Jive Records) which debuted at #2 on Billboard’s Hot 200 a few weeks back. It’s been a long time since ‘The Gap Band’ but Charlie is still kicking. He was also recently diagnosed with PROSTATE CANCER last July... and is living not only to see himself back at the top of the charts but to also testify about his journey from that grim diagnosis through a journey of medical options to where he stands now as a healthy advocate to shed light and awareness on this disease which impacts 1 in 3 African American men. He is now

informing as well as performing" by becoming a spokesperson for the Prostate Cancer Foundation (www.prostatecancerfoundation.org) to help raise awareness and funds for future research. On June 12th, Charlie will be a part of a panel, where he will share his knowledge and information about this disease, at the National Conference for 100 Black Men in New York City.

"... WHO CAN BRING YOU JOY? ... "

These are the kind of updates we rely on JET and EBONY to give us. Many are buzzing about the layoffs at many media shops but the ones at JET and EBONY could impact those fellow journalists I know who’ve been working for Johnson Publishing a long time, but I am also wondering where we’ll get “our” info without these magazines running at full capacity. For a walk down memory lane (to know what we could lose): http://books.google.com/books?id=Db4DAAAAMBAJ&hl=En&source=gbs_all_issue

"...WHO CAN TURN YOUR LIFE AROUND? ..."

Some friends and friends of friends who are doing great things – proof in the links or websites below:

* My Morehouse brother Chris McDonald’s cousin owns this little boutique that WILL:

www.GEORGIANY.COM

* My alma mater Morehouse College’s Glee Club of which I was a member during my four years there (much chronicled here) just performed at Abyssinian Baptist Chuch this past weekend. I couldn’t make it but wanted to shout them out as they continue their Spring Tour (www.mcgclub.com/).

* One of my college mates and true leader to many of us in the glee club and the arts overall Maurice Mcrae just launched his new website. He's an actor, director, and overall creative spirit who I've admired mostly for his kindness. Check him out: www.mauricemcrae.com

* My “Original Amazing Grace” Natalie’s brother-in-law Tavares just launched his new website. He is a poet/actor/teacher/motivational speaker... and all-around Renaissance Man: www.tavaresstephens.com

* Ant’s friend and supervisor on “The Wendy Williams Show” Lorraine Haughton has been working on other projects as they wait to go back in for the re-launch this summer. She has been working on "Bought & Sold" which airs on HGTV. It's a reality show about real estate agents in New Jersey (www.hgtv.com/bought-sold/show/index.html).

* My girl, CHEMENE PELZER, is a producer at “NBC Today”. Check out her recently posted blog and video related to a recent trip she took to West Africa:

http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2009/03/10/1829119.aspx

* My dear friend Camille introduced me to a lovely lady out of ATL named Ivy Simmons. She is on the steering committee for Earth Hour 09 (www.earthhour.org/). Earth Hour began in Sydney in 07 with 2.2 million participants and thousands of buildings all turning their lights out for one hour to show they care about global warming. Last year such iconic buildings went dark for the hour as the Coliseum in Rome, Golden Gate Bridge, Coca Cola's Times Square billboard, the Bank of America Building in Atlanta and more. This year, they are looking for the Vegas strip to go dark. Earth Hour takes place March 28 from 8:30-9:30pm this year.

* Chef Love Jones who recently catered a fashion week event I attended last month has finally launched his website. It will keep you updated with his day-to-day happenings. www.iambilljones.com

* My friend Reginald Barnes is an actor/publicist/promoter/talent extraordinaire and never ceases to amaze (www.myspace.com/reggieonthemove). His next round of projects will include a turn in popular ‘Down Low’ author JL King’s new off-Broadway play titled “RAW”. It opens May 1^st and features six men (and... full frontal nudity). It’s a controversial adult show running at 10pm on weekends in May. Stay tuned for more as I get it. Congrats Reginald!

"... WHO CAN HELP YOU HOLD OUT A LITTLE WHILE LONGER?..."

Y’all remember a Black version of “Cinderella” from the ‘70s before Brandy went there? IMDB tells me I’m not crazy for this childhood memory. This version of the Cinderella tale with an all-black cast has Cinderella, who wants to marry a dashing army officer, finding out out that her father, who she thought had an important job at a big hotel, is actually the men's room attendant. Her wicked stepmother finds out, too, and complications ensue. Charlayne Woodard starred as “Cindy” and Cleavant Derricks, Clifton Davis, and Nell Carter also starred.

My line is always: “I sleep in Jersey. I live in the city.” And often, Harlem is the destination within the city. The last few weeks have had me eating, breathing, living, and loving Harlem. It’s such the buyer’s market. Ant and I would love to click our respective heels three times and make the plunge to the place Diana’s Dorothy (from “The Wiz”) calls home. That said, based on our current fiscal snapshot, it’s going to take Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, and a couple of good witches for that to happen this moment... but one sweet day!!!

HARLEM HEIGHTS

I’ve already shared with you the excitement and filming-in-progress of BET’s new reality show “Harlem Heights” (www.bet.com/harlemheights) - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/2/2/we-will-find-a-way.html. Well, it has hit the airwaves and Ant and I were invited to the “legendary” Apollo to celebrate this beautiful cast of 20-somethings who remind me a lot of my 20-something-self from the angle of ambition, optimism, over-compensation, oh my!!!! But during this era of reality TV, their every move is being chronicled and placed under a microscope. Like my contemporaries and me, they aren’t doing anything to embarrass themselves. But they are real, imperfect people except for – my opinion – my Spelman sister Bridget Bland who narrates the lion’s share of the first two installments. She explains the inner-workings of the cast which includes my Morehouse brothers Landon Dais and – in a supporting role – Aden Seraile, both of whom I’ve had a chance to meet at some of the prior shoots.

(By the way: A la FACEBOOK and my Spelman sister Robbin, see some of my Morehouse/Spelman best friends from our 10-year reunion at Morehouse/Spelman. Another shot that hit my FACEBOOK shows me with the Morehouse College Glee Club [circa 1990-something]).

I loved the show - the imagery; the message-ing; etc. Most times, I need to get a few episodes of anything new under my belt before I can form a solid opinion. With the first show chronicling something so historic and household (as President Obama’s election), I was concerned that the whole series was all going to read heavy-handedly like 'black college chapel/assembly' – not a negative thing but I was wondering how enrolling such would continue to be for a viewer. (Remember, fellow MOREHOUSE MEN?). But then, the 2nd episode assured that there would be doses of drama and pop culture/social scenes in those hip (arguably less high-brow) ways that we sometimes enjoy (as viewers). Coupled with the intellect and philosophy, VOILA!: It's the perfect mix!!!! Of course, knowing that in reality, things can be so pre-set... I'm anxious to see the cameras disappear and to feel like this cool cast isn't just playing to the cameras. One of the characters Jason and his 8-year-old daughter?SUCH CHEMISTRY! Landon and his civil leader dad? AWESOME MALE BONDING!

My good girlfriend Nina Flowers who heads up communications at The Apollo Theater (www.apollotheater.com/) always makes sure we’re in the house for the right things (By the way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY NINA!!!). And the event was no exception for capturing the hotness that Harlem can be. We saw our good friend Vy Higginsen (www.mamafoundation.org) and her singing daughter Noel (a Harlemite poised for such exposure as “Harlem Heights”). Vy – of “Mama, I Want To Sing” fame (and so much more) - is staging her new Off-Broadway treasure (that’s already received SOLD-OUT success in Japan) “Sing Harlem Sing!” It will run at the Dempsey Theater in Harlem, USA! And it opens Friday, March 27^th. For tickets, contact www.smarttix.com. We also ran into Flo Anthony who is always working on something cool in the pop culture/entertainment world (www.floanthonysblacknoir.com) and (www.celebritytoyboxmagazine.com).

You folks have been reading my blog. What about bringing “A DAY IN THE LIFE OF RILEY” to life? I know my demographics are far and wide. You’d watch, right? It could be where reality meets TV talk and the magazine format at the pass.

HBO’s “THE BLACKLIST: VOL. 2”

The Apollo was also the backdrop for “The Blacklist: Volume 2” (www.hbo.com/docs/programs/blacklistv2/synopsis.html). And compliments of my Man of Morehouse nephew Herman Riley’s boss at HBO, Ant and I got a pair of tickets to its premiere. You’ll also recall I had the opportunity to host the premiere of “The Blacklist: Volume 1” in Atlanta at its iconic High Museum back in August (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/26/its-good-to-be-black.html).

This all-new special presents more dramatic portraits of some of today’s most fascinating and influential African Americans who share their stories and insights into the struggles, triumphs, and joys of black life in the U.S. Tyler Perry; Maya Rudolph; Charley Pride; Suzanne de Passe; Angela Davis; etc. are featured in this installment. Faye Wattleton (from Volume 1) moderated a Q&A with photographer/filmmaker Timothy Greenfield-Sanders and award-winning journalist Elvis Mitchell.

In the house: So many but we snatched a moment with Tamara Tunie who we love so much. She’s been ‘producing’ many things – from Broadway hits to TV shows and some animated fare. Stay tuned for all that she touches as most of it turns to gold.

My buddy Gil Robertson IV(www.robertsontreatment.com), who I talk about all the time here in the blog – either for his writings or his clients, has edited another great book titled “FAMILY AFFAIR: What It Means to Be African American Today”. It features essays by actors Isaiah Washington, Ruby Dee, Victoria Rowell, Beverly Johnson, Isaac Hayes, and a wonderful telling (that I helped broker) by my friend Candi Carter who is an award-winning television producer as well as the owner of “It’s Hip Hop Baby” (http://www.itshiphopbaby.com/). It is a children’s educational DVD series that is flying off the shelves for parents who need a little beat and heart to teach their kids the basics.

“INSIDE: BLACK CULTURE” featuring THE STUDIO MUSEUM IN HARLEM

“INSIDE: BLACK CULTURE” (www.bet.com/OnTV/BETJShows/betjaboutinsideblackculture.htm) is the wonderful brainchild of my friend Nathan Hale Williams and his co-executive producer Crystal McCrary Anthony. Ant and I have been spending lots of time with our good girlfriend Charlie T (www.myspace.com/justasweareproject) and (www.charlietphotography.net). She is an extraordinary photographer (responsible for all of the pictures in this section). So many from Harlem and beyond came out to celebrate the show; Studio Museum’s Director and Curator Thelma Golden; and the museum itself – a bird’s eye view of the people we will want in the house when Ant debuts some of his fine art later this year or early next year. Stay tuned. It’s coming along brilliantly. I was elated to see good industry girlfriends Adrienne Lopez (author/producer) and Bevy Smith (fashionista/hostess) as well as mentors Sheila (“SRB Productions” - www.srbproductions.com/) and Rodney Brooks (“USA Today” – www.usatoday.com). Bevy introduced me to the fabulous tyrusrocell townsend (head art lover/blogger) – www.iheartartblog.blogspot.com. Charlie T’s partner Danielle was also in the house (By the way, Charlie and Danielle threw a fab Oscar party with Ant and me in mind. However, I was called away on some business in – gasp! – Rochester, NY and had to experience my Oscars from an airport Holiday Inn during a blizzard. As this pic shows, Ant and the girls had the better time. SMILE! Ant predicted the most wins and walked away with a statue of his own.). Too, I got to see my dear friend and mentor/ ABC 7 weekend anchor Sandra Bookman and reporter Kimberly Richardson – both of whom do stellar work (www.abclocal.go.com/wabc/index). And author and political analyst Keli Goff (www.keligoff.com) with whom I’ve had the chance to wax political on BET’s “The Truth With Jeff Johnson” looked better than ever (http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/TheTruth.wmv).

A highlight was running into Miss Veronica Webb (www.veronicawebbisode.com/) who I had the chance to book on “Good Day Atlanta” (www.myfoxatlanta.com/subindex/entertainment/good_day) when she went on a media tour to announce her historic contract with REVLON (www.revlon.com). She was the first African American model to get such. She’s gone on to do so many things on and off the runway – with her looks and her brain – at work. I continue to admire her.

And as all roads lead to Morehouse, I got reacquainted with a Morehouse brother with whom I actually attended college. Michael James and his lovely wife Keisha Sutton-James were in the house. Since we hadn’t seen each other – face-to-face – since the 90s, there were many things to catch up on. His big update is he’s launched a men’s grooming line Frederick Benjamin grooming (www.frederickbenjamin.com/). CONGRATS MICHAEL!

“FREDERICK BENJAMIN” “N”

So, it makes total sense that my favorite boutique “N” (www.nharlemnewyork.com) would host my Morehouse brother Michael’s launch party and special products of shampoo, moisturizer, and hydrator. In addition to seeing my favorite Harlemites – owners Lenn and Nikoa; my main stylist friend Jamar; and Michael, I have the chance to show you all of what went down via the pictures of my Spelman sister Kendal Whitlock (www.imagesandtales.com). Thank you, Kendal!!! We got complimentary line-ups – another treat that I’ve eliminated from the budget of late. And mojito’s were the drink of the day. My "N"... a spa day with some fab product... and my Harlem! What day! What a day!

“INKED BABY” – COME SEE IT WITH ANT & ME ON SUNDAY, MARCH 29^TH OR WHENEVER YOU CAN!!!!

I mentioned my good girlfriend LaChanze is starring in a new play at Playwrights Horizons (www.playwrightshorizons.org). My sweet Marcia Pendelton invited us all out for an “INKED BABY” Open House in which the cast read from excerpt for the awesome play written by Christina Anderson. This piece also features a stellar cast. The drama in excerpt had us all wanting more and on the edge of our seats – so I can’t wait to see this complete production in its full splendor. Like “LOVE PROJECT”, Ant and I want to take as many people with us as possible. For $50 tickets on any night, go to www.playwrightshorizons.org or call Ticket Central at 212/279-4200 (noon – 8pm DAILY). But if you’d like to join Ant and me, we are looking to get a BIG GROUP together to attend on Sunday, March 29, 2009 --- for just $30-a-head. Here’s how it works:

1. Commit to attend the Sunday, March 29^th /7:30 pm “INKED BABY” starring Tony-award-winning LACHANZE at Playwrights Horizons (416 West 42^nd Street close to 9^th Avenue)

2. By Tuesday, March 24^th: Make $30 check (per person) payable to:

WALK TALL GIRL PRODUCTIONS

1375 BROADWAY

3^RD FLOOR

NEW YORK, NY 10018

Phone: 646-467-7393 or 917-334-6492

MEMO: 3/29 INKED BABY w/PAT & ANT

3. After you do that, PLEASE let me know that you will be joining us via patarack_riley@yahoo.com

4. On Sunday, March 29^th, let’s meet at 6:30 pm – so I can personally ensure your tickets get to you. Showtime is 7:30 pm. It’s about 90 minutes – so will wrap about 9:00 pm. And I’m going to check with my friend LACHANZE to see if she is available to join us across the street for a quick cocktail at: THE WEST BANK CAFÉ

407 W. 42^nd Street

New York, NY 10036

Phone: 212-695-6909

CHESTER GREGORY

My buddy Ra-Fael Blanco (www.2RSENTANDMEDIA.COM) represents so many great clients that I love to blog about all the time – from BLEU Magazine to its publisher/Harlem’s own Devon Christopher (who too co-owns Harlem’s new “Atomic Wings”); and Dawn from Danity Kane... it’s no wonder singer Chester Gregory (www.chestergregory.com) has signed on with this man to help publicize his debut album "IN SEARCH OF HIGH LOVE", available on March 31st. I’ve enjoyed his work on and off Broadway for years and am happy to see his talents contained inside of a CD lasering – so you can all experience him. Here’s a sneak-peek: The lead singe is the classic remake of "I Only Have Eyes 4 U", by Harry Warren and Al Dubin.

***Download "I ONLY HAVE EYES 4U"- http://www.zshare.net/audio/557184312fa21965/

***Download "SEARCH IN"

http://www.zshare.net/audio/55718637b190188f/

2R's Artist Page - http://www.2rsentandmedia.com/artists/chester2/chester.html

Meanwhile, check out the new BLUE Magazine (www.bleumag.com). It features my buddy Jensen Atwood of “Noah’s Arc” fame on the cover. Another friend Demarco Majors who has recently asked me if we might not consider working on a project as we all aim to maximize our talents and reach. Demarco, who I have been bumping into socially for a couple of years now, is always so gracious and always working on his next level. He can currently be seen on LOGO (www.logoonline.com/shows/dyn/shirts_and_skins/series.jhtml) via his series “Shirts and Skins” – a reality show that looks at gay basketball team the “Rock Dogs”. CONGRATS!

Speaking of DOGS (the real kind):

My friend Pierre hipped me to his friend Amber who has an intriguing line of luxury pet-wares that you can check out and buy via www.kaneandcouture.com

By the way, another friend Dewayne Snype just hipped me to the sounds of Karen Bernod (www.karenbernod.com). She’s been around for a minute. But check her out as she’s quite a talent. He sent me two of her CDs “life @ 360 degrees” (www.lifeat360degrees.com) and “Some othaness for you” (www.Nativelycreative.com). DON’T SLEEP!

MY MOMENTUM COMMUNITY AT WORK – IN THE WORLD!

• Like the aforementioned Marcia Pendelton, my good friend Renee and I had the privilege of doing Momentum Education (www.momentumeducation.com). Renee hipped me to an awesome tome that held my hand and heart while on a uber-turbulent prop plane that was flying me way off my path (so I could earn a little penny). It’s titled “Thank God I...: Stories of Inspiration for Every Situation”. It was created by John Castagnini (www.johncastagnini.com/). As self-help and spirituality are among my favorite genres of books to read, imagine my excitement to pick up this one. It challenges us to transform our human experience by being grateful for the bad things that happen to us towards breaking through into our power and resilience. Visit the online community at www.ThankGodI.com
• Another two Momentum buddies are doing great things... and another is simply BEING THE DIFFERENCE. My friend Nikki Johnson is an Executive Assistant, Company Manager, Touring, Travel & Logistics Manager, Stage & Production Management, Festival & Special Event Management (http://www.myspace.com/miapicha). She’s pursuing her passion and dream of being a personal/executive assistant to a high profile individual (talent, celebrity, musician, actor, executive, agent, etc.). I want to hire her now but it’s not in the budget. Still, I want to share her with anyone out there who has this need. Having a great assistant is key when you’re managing many things. Nikki’s motto is "to clear the path for the artist to do their work." She is clear this is her calling and has been preparing for this moment. So, see her myspace website above and/or find her on FACEBOOK... and tell Nikki “Patrick sent you!”. HERE’S TO INFINITE POSSIBILITIES!
• One of my coaches when I started the MOMENTUM work was HAZELLE GOODMAN – comic actress and first African American woman to be cast in a Woody Allen flick. She’s currently off-Broadway in a critically-acclaimed piece “Spalding Gray: Stories Left to Tell” (www.broadway.com/Spalding-Gray-Stories-Left-to-Tell-Off-Broadway/broadway_show/543520). Also, Hazelle is starring in her one woman show "It's a New Day: Hazelle's Back!" at Joe's Pub on Friday, March 13th at 8:00 pm (www.joespub.com). She’s always a treat to see – so check her out!

• My good girlfriend Camille Morrison (who I write about all the time. She’s in Beijing, China now) hipped me to her good girlfriend Julie Rainbow who has been documenting stories of African American elders. She points out that rarely do we see tenderness and/or affection shared in the media about our African American elders and she seeks to share these unheralded stories. Take a look at an excerpt from her work: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYAOG4Z29NI Thanks for sharing, Julie! CONGRATULATIONS!
• It’s no secret that these times have been challenging financially for me. As a result, my spirits are down too. I CHOOSE to get up everyday and see what difference I can be to turn it around... and I am BLESSED to be seeing the benefits of getting up and CREATING MY NEW DAY! That said, sometimes I just need a little help – a little budge, someone or something to scoot me along into my day’s purpose or into the fire (depending on the day). My other coach from Momentum was a lovely man named Curtis. And even in these many months since taking the various courses, I still stay in touch with Curtis. We don’t talk a lot but through the airwaves of LOVE, he continues to get me. One day, after agreeing to do a gig I couldn’t quite afford to take (as funds were that low), I checked the mail. In it was a check from Curtis with whom I’ve never spoken so specifically about my money woes. But he read between the lines (and sometimes on the lines via the blog) and responded – quite simply because he could. To him, it may not have seemed like a lot. But it allowed me to step forward into the day’s purpose (which was some work on which I could now do my best job without the worry of transportation, food, room, and board). Without questioning WHY or going to the place that has been difficult because I’m not used to being in actual NEED, I simply accepted it and continue to be SO GRATEFUL for it! CURTIS, you are SIMPLY THE BEST! And same for my MARIO, AUDREY, and all the others whose PRAYERS and kind gestures continue to SHOW UP and OUT!

WE ARE A FAMILY

• My cousin Floyd (in Atlanta) is poised to graduate college later this year and has taken on an internship with a local TV show “A Sound Voice Live” featuring "The Sweethearts of the Industry" James and Regina Howard. On his first day, they were interviewing “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Deshawn Snow (www.deshawnsnowfoundation.org/). As I always mentor Floyd and my nephew Noot on the importance of networking, imagine my pride as Floyd secured contacts from Mrs. Snow’s foundation (knowing that I’m a big fan of the show and disappointed that she won’t be back next season). Her folks even reached out to me amidst several rounds of telephone tag, but I’m hoping to hear from them soon – so I can share what she’s up to with her foundation, etc. Meanwhile, I hear that the new season of "Real Housewives of Atlanta" has begun filming. And I also hear that Dwight is coming back - in fierce effect. Can't wait to see. Meanwhile, Floyd also introduced me to his bosses who tell me they think Floyd has a great future ahead in this industry. Their radio show is airing on www.ensoundradio.com Mon-Fri from 5pm-7pm. And in Atlanta, you can tune in to BBG Network daily to "A Sound Voice". You can log onto www.bbgnetwork.com, click on listen live at the bottom of the page in the lower right corner OR Log onto www.loudcity.com, type in bbgnetwork in the find box, then click tune in OR Log onto www.now-streaming.com and click the gospel box and choose your media player for your computer OR log onto www.live365.com and type in "BBG Network" in the "Find stations that play box", click the yellow play box and you will hear the audio OR Log onto www.lifestream.tv, click on the green radio tab and then click on Bridgers Broadcasting Gospel Network OR log onto www.itunes.com, in order to hear the show here you have to have itunes media player. So, make sure you download itunes. Click on the radio tab, then religious, when the drop box comes down click on BBGNetwork OR log onto www.audiorealm.com, in the search box type bbg network and click on the speaker to listen OR log onto www.flytunes.com and search for gospel and bbg network. And for the television show "A Sound Voice Live!" airs as a special on People TV (Comcast Cable 24) or log on to www.peopletv.org. Meanwhile, go to www.youtube.com and www.godtube.com and see special segments from the show. It is GREAT TO HAVE OPTIONS! GOD BLESS YOU, JAMES AND REGINA! I’M PROUD OF YOU, FLOYD!

And of course, we didn't just hit Harlem this week. We went to Williamsburgh where Ant's best friend Manivone hosted us at The Velvet Lounge (www.velvetbrooklyn.com/). Ant's other high school buddies Paul and Dustin were there. Ern came. And we just enjoyed a lovely night of old friends connecting with old friends. Too, it was great to spend time with Ant and his peeps who are lots of fun and have so much love for him.    It was what we have to remind ourselves to have on the ordinary days - a simple CELEBRATION OF LIFE at the changing of the season and the promise of ABUNDANCE! "... when [IT'LL] change... nobody knows..." BUT WE MUST STAY ENCOURAGED and OPTIMISTIC! And we do!

A few weeks ago, Ant and I were watching a “Living Single” reunion on “TV One” (www.tvoneonline.com/) in which Kim Coles and the rest of the cast (sans Queen Latifah) reflected on their hit show from the ‘90s. As it was one of our favorite shows that – to our estimation – had an early sign-off from the airwaves, we were happy to see on display the reverence the show deserved coupled with the levity it executed successfully for so many years. You’ll recall, there’s been some “Living Single” synergy in the “... the life of Riley...” as I met Kim Coles last year in Chicago via my good girlfriend Jakki (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/4/16/as-the-sun-has-its-place-up-in-the-sky.html). We bonded instantly. Kim informed me that her former co-stars T.C. Carson (‘Kyle Barker’) and Erika Alexander (‘Max’) share my November 19^th birthday. Some months later, I approached T.C. at a New York City event at which he performed (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/11/12/the-great-black-way.html). He too was gracious and kind and loved the birthday synergy. And now, Ms. Kim Coles is back on the air with TBS’ “10 Items or Less” (www.tbs.com/shows/10itemsorless) as Mercy P. Jones. Imagine our excitement, when Kim called me to say she was coming to town for just a couple of days (to do press for her new show - http://weblogs.cw11.com/news/local/morningnews/blogs/), and though she wouldn’t be able to hang extensively (nor see everyone she knows in her native New York), she wanted to meet Ant and see me. She chose the flossy-yet-approachable “Four Seasons” in Manhattan as our social backdrop (www.fourseasons.com/newyorkfs/). She invited one more friend to join us for rounds of $22 cocktails and light appetites. It wasn’t iconic Tennis player Andre Agassi, though he was holding court next to us. Her friend from back in the day was brand media marketing consultant Michele Weston (WWW.MJWSTYLEMEDIA.COM) who was the Founding Fashion and Style Editor for full-figured MODE Magazine - on newsstands from 1996 to 2001... not to be confused with the fictional magazine title used in one of our favorite shows “Ugly Betty”

(www.abc.go.com/primetime/uglybetty/index). Kim was featured in one of its spreads at that time and Michele adorned her in only the best couture for the shoot. As always, Kim had me laughing from the moment we sat down (Kim’s reflections on Eartha Kitt’s guest starring role on the hit show truly brought a smile to Ant’s and my face... and begs Ant's own Kitt impersonation [singing the wry Etta James' "At Last"] the next time we all get together. It's a hoot. I know she'll LOVE it!). We unearthed how much we have in common including a mutual hankering to read magazines that were a hair ahead of our time - “Psychology Today” at 9 years old for me and “Glamour” at 14 for her. Kim loved Ant. And he loved her. We are all assured an encore gathering the next time we go West or the next time she comes back to New York City. She wants to join us for a round of karaoke as she’s never done it before. That will be a great time, won’t it?

HAVE YOU SEEN MY CHILDHOOD?

Speaking of childhood (and that era in which I was reading “Psychology Today” and “TIME” instead of “EBONY Jr.”), FACEBOOK continues to bring some blasts from the past back into my mix. My first best friend in Savannah, GA was Alan West. Via FACEBOOK, he found me as we've not spoken in any depth since elementary school as we went to different middle schools and high schools. Then, after I confirmed his FB FRIENDSHIP, he sent these pix from the 3^rd grade and 5^th grade. In 1978, after my family moved to Savannah, Georgia from San Bernadino, California as my dad was closing in on his 1980 retirement from the Air Force, I attended Largo Tibet Elementary School. In the 3rd grade picture (above), there’s a shot of another best friend Reggie Parker (front row - 4th from left holding sign. How cute, right?; I'm standing in the back. Far left. Ahhhhh...). I’d like to outreach a note of sympathy and love to Reggie as he just lost his loving mother. Reggie and I continued to be good friends through the years (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/11/3/options-image-of-the-future.html). We reconnected at our 20 year reunion back in June of last year (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/6/17/someday-well-be-together-we-still-together-kinda.html). Then, the 5th grade picture (back row - 3rd from the right) showcases my 'original amazing grace' Natalie's husband Dwayne (before they even met). And we're all dear friends until this day. SMALL WORLD - shrinking everyday... because of FACEBOOK! LOL!

VINTAGE FASHION AND FRIENDSHIPS

Another FACEBOOK buddy and dear friend Itika got a mention in my last entry but her trip to New York City allowed us some more time to hang. Her former Chicago buddy Tiffany Nicole is now a New York City girl and showcased her vintage wears from her company “The Garment Room” (www.thegarmentroom.com/) at Chelsea’s Metropolitan Pavilion for a vintage show (www.manhattanvintage.com). I’ve shouted her out before but here am officially welcoming her to New York. Stay tuned for more on Manhattan’s latest IT GIRL. Afterwards, Itika and I joined other friends Muffin, Kitania, and Tamika at Stone Creek Lounge for some cocktails and appetizers (www.stonecreeknyc.com). Then, some dancing at Chill (www.chillloungenyc.com). As we were on the eve of Fashion Week (www.mbfashionweek.com/newyork/), it’s no wonder I stumbled into the FABULOUS Bevy Smith – stylist/fashion personality with THE MOST – as we compared notes on the days of couture ahead.

LOVE PROJECT: AN ENCORE PRESENTATION

Before we segued to FASHION, there was still some THEATER to address and THE GRAMMYS to watch. Ant and I had such a good time at “The Love Project” the week prior (http://www.culturalodyssey.org/v2/season/loveproject/video.php), we invited a fun group to accompany us for its final show. Our buddy Ike and Kristina; Ant’s industry sister Candice; our Charlie T, her partner Danielle; and others came out and really enjoyed the organic show which combined the best that cabaret, talk shows, slide presentations, and cooking segments have to offer. It’s on its way to Tampa and – soon after – Atlanta. So, please check out “The Love Project” when it comes to town.

CALLING ALL GOOD NEGROES!!!

Another great show Ant and I got the chance to get excited about: “THE GOOD NEGRO”. We attended an open house event at The Public Theater (www.publictheater.org).

The excerpt from the play pleased the packed house. Playwright Tracey Scott Wilson and director Liesl Tommy followed that half-hour up with some illuminating discussion around the piece which looks at the Civil Rights Movement through a more complex and human filter. The play is selling well and is now extended through April 19 because of high ticket demand.

My girl, Marcia Pendelton, who makes sure all the tastemakers are in the house for such events, can be contacted for tickets via her site: http://www.walktallgirlproductions.com. Also, in the house, my friends – from Morehouse buddy Michael K. Watts ("LIVE! From Front Row by Michael K. Watts") to publicists Marlynn Snyder and Theo Perry; and a host of others I hadn’t seen in a minute and some I was excited to meet for the first time. Joyous and oh-so-kind Randall Isaac’s was also in the house.

He’s been promoting a Thursday night set “CONSTELLATION” for the last few months. I’ve yet to make it out but want to shout it out here as the weather will soon thaw out; the economy will turn around; and we’ll be excited to take in his special evening at Chelsea Hotel’s Star Lounge (www.starhotelny.com) that he co-presents with our other friend Nathan Hale Williams who is co-executive producing several installments of "Inside: BlackCulture" for BET-J (www.bet.com/OnTV/BETJShows/).

GOT GRAMMY????? MAYBE A COMEBACK??????

Meanwhile, the GRAMMYs (www.grammy.com) had everyone abuzz for a multitude of reasons – some of which were scandalous. But my muses came in the form of ‘possibilities’.

Though not televised, at Clive Davis’ pre-Grammy party, Miss Whitney Houston stood inside of a Dolce & Gabbana dress (www.dolcegabbana.com/) (that Miss Ross sported a couple of years ago for one of her pre-buzz comebacks). How appropriate because Miss Houston let the industry know she can carry a tune again (if not hit all of the high notes). Regardless, the audience was happy to have her back in seemingly good health and diva-tude. LISTEN FOR YOURSELF: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hah1PzH-tY0) and (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KC3i_78ywZ4). WE LOVE YOU, WHITNEY! On this night, Jennifer Hudson came back in the wake of her horrible family tragedy. And perhaps Whitney passed all the high notes to her as she provided the most stellar vocals at the party, then the GRAMMYs (where Whitney presented J-Hud with her 1^st Grammy). This moment happened before Jennifer sang an emotional “You Pulled Me Through” to a happy-to-have-her-back audience (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGZaSOV_zco). She also performed for Neil Diamond’s Grammy MUSICARES event and – days later – did a rousing rendition of “The Impossible Dream” for Muhammad Ali at the NAACP Image Awards (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AfH7NwVhns). Too, she’s released her new video for her “Spotlight” follow-up “If This Isn’t Love” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEfgW6i1a8A). And she’s announced her spring tour with Robin Thicke (www.jenniferhudsononline.com/). Ant and I had such a good time with girlfriends Charlie T and Danielle at the Superbowl the week prior, they invited us (Ern in tow) back for a Grammy party. As they did for Thanksgiving and then the big game, they laid it out again for our viewing set. THANKS CHARLIE T and DANIELLE! Oh! I was excited to see my Spelman sister Jocelyn Coleman in the audience. She and I were student journalists in the National Association of Black Journalists as well. She’s now a Hollywood publicist for the stars. Jocelyn was seated next to her client, an upcoming artist Qui who is football great Jerry Rice’s daughter who has a song out now with David Banner. It’s called “Rev It Up” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwJEMJNdnwc)

CONGRATS JOCELYN! (www.tridestined.com).

NABJ BABIES KEEP-A-COMIN' ON STRONG!!!!!

Speaking of the NAACP Image Awards, I wanted to congratulate TV One and Roland Martin for their second successive NAACP Image Awards (www.naacpimageawards.net/). They won again in the very tough category "Outstanding News/Information" (Series or Special) against a very accomplished field of entrants, including an opposing team of which I had the opportunity to be a small part. Last year, they won for an interview conducted with then Senator Barack Obama. Roland and I go back via the National Association of Black Journalists’ Student Representative when I was a student. Just a few months ago, NABJ commissioned me to script a message for Roland Martin that is now on its website (www.nabj.org). It promotes the association’s “On The Move” campaign as it prepares to move into a new headquarters. CONGRATS ROLAND! Also, quick shout out to Tracee Ellis Ross who won the prize as “Best Actress” in a sitcom for “Girlfriends”, which still holds up as one of my favorite shows of all time (despite its premature ending a la “Living Single”).

AMEN... TO THE FASHION GODS AND GODDESSES!!!!!

Kim Coles isn’t the only sitcom royalty I happened upon this week. Remember “Amen” with Sherman Hemsley? And “The Wayans Brothers”? Well, if you do... you remember the Pastor’s wife “Thelma” and security guard “Dee”. As the Fashion Week festivities unfolded, I had the chance to meet Ms. Anna Marie Horsford at The Plaza Hotel (www.fairmont.com/ThePlaza). Right at the elegant corner of Central Park South and 5^th Avenue, we got the chance to experience the debut of 2M damorJon Natural Nail Care System at swanky Caudalie Spa (www.caudalie.com) on the hotel’s 4^th floor (www.m2mdamorejon.com). My friends Seven (who is Grooming & Beauty Director at Blue Magazine – www.thebleumag.com) and fab designer Kevin Andre Dickens (with KD Studio) invited me to this event. They were so gracious to invite me and kept me entertained throughout the evening. I also ran into my buddy Walter Greene who is a Fashion Editor/Producer (You see his column in Sister 2 Sister Magazine - www.s2smagazine.com/). He introduced me to some lovely folks, including Sherice Major, a model from The Bahamas; Miss Antigua Athina James, who competed in Miss World and Miss Universe contests; and professional clothier Sebastian Marshall (Tom James of New York). The owners Monica and Myrdith were the ever-gracious hosts as they offered up free manicures. As a line-item I’ve eliminated from my shrinking-of-late budget, I was happy to get a free one care of aesthetician Ummil. There were special cocktails of cognac, chambord, and champagne (called a “Pour Moi” – www.mypourmoi.com) and we were able to enjoy the most delectable bites of Chef Love Jones (“Bill Jones Epicure”) – including Red Velvet cupcakes. And Miss Deborah Gregory (www.cheetahrama.com/) was in the house – making sure to show me her Black Russian Hello Kitty jewelry by Tarina Tarantino. ALWAYS PURR-FECT!

Afterwards Ant met me at The Regency Hotel (www.loewshotels.com) for the launch of our friend Miguel Antoinne’s men’s line (www.miguelantoinne.com).

I want every single piece that his models displayed. Against the backdrop of the SOHO Penthouse Suite, each ensemble (and the models inside) just popped.

 And the unique detailing of each item was just so inspired.

All of our buddies were in the house – from Ryan...

to Jamar and Natasha.

It was great to see Rick who I’ve not seen socially in a minute.

My buddy and Morehouse brother Lloyd Boston was in attendance with Jonathan Sandville.

Lloyd has a new show “Closet Cases with Lloyd Boston” on the Fine Living Network (www.fineliving.com/).

Ant and I were telling him how we could use his expertise for our “closets”. And Ant would love to pull some style expertise from Lloyd. Soon, a long-overdue dinner at “Houston’s” (www.hillstone.com) will allow us some catch-up time. LOVE YOU, LLOYD!

Another style businessman Kwame Jackson shared some more information about how his ties Krimson by Kwame are doing (www.krimsonbykwame.com) in stores like MACY's and my childhood department store BELK.

We too met some great new folks including Dr. Lewis Feder (Dermatologist and Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon – www.federmd.com);

Henry J. Amoroso;

Harry A. Kritzer with “Twin Blonde Media” (www.twinblonde.com);

stylist Eya with “Be Good To You” Consulting; and Jordan Potter at “Details” Magazine (www.DETAILS.com).

VALENTINE'S BIRTHDAYS

Before we could wrap FASHION WEEK up, Ant and I had to come up with a creative way to celebrate our Ern (best friend since 7^th grade) who was celebrating his “28^th” birthday on Valentine’s Day. The catch? We had little in the way of disposable funds. But we do have invitations to fun, A-list affairs. So, Ant backed out of being my standing date for all-things festive [as the party planners for this particular event didn’t allow me to bring them both (even though Ant normally shoots the pix for the blog)]. Once Ern and I got to this TARGET set, we didn’t see the concern. It was a festive time but surely there was room for Ant as well (Everyone asked where he was). Though she was not responsible for the upset, I ran into old friend Maggie Mahler who is now the Senior Manager of Events and Publicity at Target (I knew her from her days at Nike). Hopefully there won’t be this ilk of problem again because TARGET does throw a great set (Ant and I attended the last Fashion Week event they threw back in September – featuring Mr. and Mrs. Seinfeld!). Tonight was no exception in the way of name-dropping. Firstly, TARGET was debuting and selling its new Alexander McQueen looks-for-less (www.alexandermcqueen.com/). The haute couturier is the one who Andre Leon Tally introduced to Mariah Carey (during their style collabo days) and Melania Trump. Like Whitney, Ms. Canon sported a McQueen number that Miss Ross first sported (a la haute couture) some years prior. Most of the big names in the house would be more interesting to my 20-year-old nephew and his college-age peers – including Amanda Bynes (okay, I was excited to see her). Also in the house (which I reported to my nephew via text as he was attending my alma mater and his college Morehouse College’s Founders Day concert headlined by Fantasia [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9RW1RCY0Cs] – www.morehouse.edu): Whitney from “The City” (www.mtv.com); She's working for Diane Von Furstenburg (www.dvf.com) and Miss Ross just attended her Fashion Week show yesterday. Diana and Diane (who reportedly scored her finale with Diana's "Upside Down") are old friends. Also, “Gossip Girl" Amanda Setton ('Penelope') was there. Then, more from my category of people I am excited to see: MY FASHION INSPIRATIONS like: Miss J (from “America’s Next Top Model” - www.cwtv.com/shows/americas-next-top-model12); Emil Wilbekin from GIANT Magainze (www.GIANTmag.com); Phillip Bloch (www.phillipbloch.com); and Robert Verdi (www.robertverdi.com). Ern had a GREAT TIME. To take our appreciation for Ern a step further, Ant prepared a fabulous spaghetti dinner for him that we could all enjoy along with what was left of Ern’s shrinking open bar (Disposable funds have dried up, hear?). With TIVO on tap for entertainment, it made for a fun Valentine’s Day/Ern’s birthday. He seemed to have a good time. SMILE!

Some RE-CAPS and FOLLOW-Ups...and RANDOM NOTES:

• My platonic boo Carl Nelson is co-producing an awesome event in Bermuda (benefiting Project Change Bermuda) along with Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia – a personal friend of Carl’s. The fun-filled weekend will be April 16-19, 2009. SAVE THE DATE... and look forward to more info and particulars in upcoming blog entries.
• Remember I told you about BET’s “Harlem Heights”? Well, it’s poised to debut March 2^nd (www.bet.com/OnTV/BETShows/harlemheights/). You too recall when I attended the particular luxury bag debut (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/2/2/we-will-find-a-way.html)? I ran into several Atlanta University Center sisters – alums from Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University. CAU alum Shavonne Reel is the publicist for her Spelman sister Brandi Russell whose designs are included in the Bleu Magazine I mentioned in that same blog entry. Her line is “Sacred Heart”. Check her out (www.sacredheartcollections.com/site/index.html)
• My friend, Tony Award®-winner LaChanze is coming back to The Great White Way. The play is “Inked Baby” and it runs March 5 through April 5. To purchase on-line with a discount code (KBWT), you can go to www.ticketcentral.com or call 1-212-279-4200.
• Remember I hosted an event at THE HIGH in Atlanta back in August for the premiere of HBO’s “The Blacklist” (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/26/its-good-to-be-black.html). Well, HBO’s “The Blacklist 2” premieres February 26^th (www.hbo.com/docs/programs/blacklistv2/index.html).
• I had Melinda Doolittle first (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/2/2/we-will-find-a-way.html). Well, ELLEN (www.ellen.warnerbros.com/) had her this week... and she was GREAT – as singer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPYPm9UxgIk) and guest (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HFfEBw8feo). ELLEN wants her back!
• Remember my Hillary Clinton from my CN8 “Your Morning” First Lady Fashion Show? http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/11/26/accept-me-flaws-and-all-and-thats-why-i-love-all-of-you.html. Well, Valerie Gay is also a singer and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts is presenting her fine vocals on March 1 in Philadelphia (www.paga.org). CONGRATS VALERIE! SING PRETTY!!!!
• My girlfriend Nina Flowers heads up Publicity at the Legendary Apollo Theater (www.apollotheater.org) and is getting ready for a lot of activity around the theater’s 75h Anniversary – including a recent announcement where Miss Dionne Warwick came out to help announce all of the fun – including a revival of “Dreamgirls” and discounts on Amateur Night. Check out the site and don’t miss out!
• Speaking of Nina Flowers, one of Rupaul’s drag queens competing in “Rupaul’s Drag Race” is named “Nina Flowers”. Have you checked the show out yet? Not exactly “A Night of 1,000 Diana’s” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BSBe42Fb48). But it’s entertaining (www.logoonline.com/shows/dyn/rupauls_drag_race/videos.jhtml).
• Mocha Moms out there! Check out my girlfriend Kimberly Seals Allers’ website: http://mochamanual.com/mochamanual/. She has a new book and lots of great things happening inside of her brand that promotes moms who need some support to be able to do it all.
• While we await our next “American Idol” winner, did you folks see “X Factor” – out of London – and its new winner Alexandra Burke do a duet on “Listen” with Beyonce for her finale? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bV-ERgAHqXo Well, she’s poised to achieve the success that past “X Factor” winner Leona Lewis has received from America. Already, she's got a 5 CD deal from EPIC here in America. Look out LISTEN UP!
• My friend David Nathan (www.soulmusic.com and www.soulmusicstore.com) worked on a project he wants me to share with all of you. He is co-producer of this great album with some amazing artists: http://www.youtube.com/v/-nZUM6XdWWE&hl=en&fs=1 and http://www.gospelcity.com/news/headlines/1635 It’s the release of Songs 4 Worship-Soul CD!!! David is the Secretary for the R&B Foundation (www.rhythmblues.org) and continues to be U.S. Senior Contributing Writer for Blues & Soul (www.bluesandsoul.com)
• My friend Moon Stillwater announces the opening of ISES HAIRCARE PRODUCTS (www.acceptthehealing.com). They had such an overwhelming demand for their products over the last 6 years, they decided to offer these products on a broader scale.
• My friend Greg recommends I go see Broadway’s “Billy Elliot” (www.billyelliotbroadway.com) – Elton John’s latest production. Anybody else seen it?
• You watching “Gone Country” on CMT (www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/gone-country/series.jhtml)? Ant and I are. We’re rooting for Sheila E; Justin Guarini, and George Clinton. Nothing against Taylor Dane and the others.
• CONGRATS to Taraji P. Henson and Viola Davis for their Supporting Actress OSCAR nods!!!!! Ant and I just saw "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" this weekend and know why Taraji's up. Her participation in Fantasia's LIFETIME movie (as the IDOLs mother) nothwithstanding, I'm sure Viola did a great job too!
• Lena Horne’s granddaughter and daughter of “THE WIZ” director Sidney Lumet, Jenny Lumet, is the mastermind behind movie “Rachel Getting Married” (www.sonyclassics.com/rachelgettingmarried/) which has gotten many a nod and recognition in the industry. I had the chance to do a story on her a few years back just after Janet Jackson was pulled from portraying her grandmother in the ABC bio-pic that has yet to happen. She told me she didn’t quite understand what the hoopla inside that “wardrobe malfunction” was all about. Well, it’s good to see her doing so well as she takes her career to the next level. CONGRATS JENNY!
• TV-ONE featured Diana Ross’ Golden-Globe- nominated tour-de-force in “Out of Darkness” the other week. Always good to see Diana on the screen: EXCERPT FROM BEGINNING OF FILM: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBkDUln85-A) and EXCERPT FROM END OF FILM: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic3tdXynEf0) And just as "Madea Goes To Jail" prepares to hit the theater, Tyler Perry has gone on record saying he wants Diana Ross for one of his films. It would be great to see her back on the silver screen.
• An AALIYAH bio-pic is reportedly forthcoming starring Canadian pop star Keisha Chante (http://www.keshiachante.org/). I look forward to it! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFkAC3CAHqM
• I love YOU TUBE! And I miss PICKLES who puts the best Diana videos on there! SHOUT OUT TO PICKLES!
• SIGNOFF (FOR NOW)!

"WE WILL FIND A WAY"*

* Song titles from Melinda Doolittle's CD 

It’s becoming increasingly more difficult to take this time to underscore the ‘pop culture’ and ‘possibilities’ in my days, one of my joys. Not because my cup isn’t running over with things to ‘report’ and ‘optimism’ to boot. From Obama to The Super Bowl, there’s a lot of great stuff going on. But right now, it’s tough for me. Work is drying up. Bills are piling up. Depression has kicked in. And sometimes I feel there’s nowhere to turn because so many are experiencing the same despair. I suppose that should help (in a small way) that I am not alone in this recession that has taken hold of many in epidemic numbers. But it doesn’t. Not always at least.

But I TRUST IT TO PASS. So, I’ll aim to stay focused without the interruption of collectors calling incessantly on auto-dial (for me to say the same thing to them today that I said to them yesterday. NO MONEY RIGHT NOW but working on it!!!!). And I’ll attempt to catch you up – knowing that the many breakdowns that are popping off quite regularly these days will eventually lead to a BREAKTHROUGH. This marks as a TESTIMONY!!!! And a PRAYER!

"COMING BACK TO (MELINDA)"

Remember “American Idol” finalist Melinda Doolittle whose Season 6 run took her near the top slot of the popular TV show and allowed her to be coached by ‘my American Idol’ Diana Ross? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJ2uN5yBqes Well, I got the chance to sit down with her one-on-one at the posh London NYC Hotel (www.thelondonnyc.com/).

Of course, I had to ask her about Diana:

PATRICK: You gave [Diana Ross] “goose bumps”?

MELINDA: I was in a sheer panic because it’s hard when you’re sitting this close to someone [measuring our close distance sitting next to each other] and singing their song to them. And “The Wiz” is my favorite musical – hands down. So, for me, I was like – to do “Home” and do it in front of her. And she was just there with all of her hair. Beautiful! Motherly! Sweet! And she gave me a lot of great insight. But I was scared out of my mind.

PATRICK: You must have been scared as she sort of approached you on the night that she performed [“MORE TODAY THAN YESTERDAY” - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzX71lRZp9w]?

MELINDA: I was like “Thank God it was on the chorus because that’s all I could think of were the words for just that!” She’s walking over to me with her glorious dress. Just AWESOME!

Through the ‘boot camp’ of Simon, Randy, Paula, and Diana, Melinda – a well-known background singer for the likes of BeBe & CeCe Winans – is now ready to step into the spotlight with the release of her new solo CD “Coming Back to You” (www.myspace.com/melindadoolittle), out February 3. And it is her turn! Featuring Grammy-nominated producer Mike Mangini at the boards, she follows in the footsteps of Mike’s other clients Joss Stone, Run DMC, and The Jonas Brothers. But her style is all her own (if not that of every soul great that came before her). Recorded with a team of live musicians in Nashville and New York City, Melinda knocks out 13 songs that offer you a ride through blues clubs of Louisiana to the churches of Mississippi to the piano bars of New York City and beyond. CONGRATS, MELINDA! Thanks for giving Ant and me the chance to come by and hang with you for a little bit. I will continue to chronicle your rise to the top!

"WALKIN' BLUES"

My industry friend Aliza Rabinoff with Dan Klores Communications (www.dkcnews.com/) hooked me up with Melinda. Too, in the wake of our excitement around Obama’s being sworn in as our 44^th President of the United States, she invited Ern, Ant, Manivone, and me out to celebrate. The evening was scored by the sounds of Latin, Afro-Brazilian and funk grooves at Bembe (www.bembe.us) courtesy of Barcelona’s DJ Turmix!

(www.myspace.com/djturmix). Since my desire to be in DC didn’t pan out, Ern, Ant, and I still celebrated at home (and we did enjoy hearing Howard University’s band perform Diana Ross’ “The Boss” for Mr. President and The First Lady - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNA6mweMUFQ... but we just wanted to get out and dance... and fellowship with our fellow Americans. And that we did which required a quick schlep from Jersey to Williamsburgh, Brooklyn. But also we met some great folks – most notably Miss Deb Goldstein, T-shirt designer whose business Miss Wit Designs, LLC - Tees For Good Times and its inventory should also be celebrated (www.misswit.net) and (http://misswiticisms.blogspot.com/). Deb was so much fun... and quite generous in buying us a couple of rounds, which goes a long way during these lean times. THANKS DEB (not pictured in one of her T-shirts above, but next to me in the group pictures above)! I look forward to hanging out with you very soon! Ant, Ern, and I continued getting our dance on at a Harlem set to which we were invited by our friend George (and Jamar worked with this party as well). The party is called "BLOOM" and this was an inaugural dance party featuring many of Harlem's brightest. Its mission is to celebrate the art and self-expression of the new post-modern tribe of the African Diaspora, their friends, and lovers. The party is produced by Supa'wine Productions Olubode Shawn Brown. One of Ern's and my favorites is Mariah Carey (circa early-90s). So, imagine our pleasure to pose with her duet partner and career-long background singer Trey Lorenz who you must know from his own solo project from the '90s and his collaboration on the #1 remake "I'll Be There" with Mrs. Canon (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBCjx0pogY0).

"I WILL BE"

Look out “Real Housewives of Atlanta”!!! There’s a new reality show cast of 20-something Harlemites who are all on the road to actually creating their wealth and letting the world now how the FAB do it. I attended one of its tapings as this particular scene required a loft space full of grown and sexy tastemakers, celebrity notables, and fabulous fashionistas. It was my Spelman sister/'Harlem Heights' cast member Bridget Bland’s cousin Briana Bingham – also a cast member – debuting her luxury handbag line in Manhattan at Westside Loft (www.loft11.com/). Look out for her bags! Good look! Two of the cast members Landon C. Dais (www.UptownDems.org) and Aden Seraile are my young Morehouse brothers. And we met some other AUC alums while there – from the halls of Clark Atlanta University; Morehouse; and Spelman.  Ern, and our girlfriend Cy (http://www.vivedesignhaus.com/) joined Ant and me. We enjoyed seeing my good friends Karu Daniels, entertainment producer for AOL/Black Voices:

(OFFICIAL URL: http://blackvoices.aol.com/black_entertainment)

(OFFICIAL BLOG: http://www.blackvoicesblogs.com/category/entertainment-newswire).

Also, Kevin-Anthony of “Black 2 Broadway” fame was in the house (www.b2productions.xbuild.com) and (www.myspace.com/b2bookings). It was also good to see Ra-Fael Blanco (www.myspace.com/2rsentertainmentandmedia) and (www.2RSENTANDMEDIA.com). His clients include Devon Christopher and Devon's publication BLEU Magazine (www.thebleumag.com/) which features a Diana-inspired “Mahogany” layout in its most recent issue. Ra-Fael also represents Danity Kane’s Dawn Richards. She was such a treat. So sweet! Dawn recently launched the first edition of her own comic book line, DANITY KANE Comics, which can be found at http://www.danitykanecomics.com/. This is cool as Ant is incorporating cartoon animation into an art project on which he's currently working. Stay tuned. Editions 2 and 3 will be released in the coming months and will be accompanied by an Original Music Soundtrack. Dawn is also in middle of shooting Season 5 of MTV's Making The Band, which will begin airing February 12 (www.mtv.com). Also, I got to introduce Cy to my girl Marcia Cole who now heads up her own cyber-mag Amber Magazine (www.ambermag.com). For more on “Harlem Heights”, check out http://www.bet.com/onblast/default.html?chan=3&id=2630&i=0&sub=&itype=e . And also check out “Baldwin Hills” (www.bet.com/OnTV/BETShows/baldwinhills/default.htm). Miss Sheryl Lee Ralph and her son Etienne take their reality chemistry beyond last year’s MTV's "My Super Sweet Sixteen" and shine on BET's new season of “Baldwin Hills”. CONGRATS! One more thing – since Morehouse came up in this section. My friend and a Morehouse brother Ken’s mother Gwen sent me this link: http://delasso.googlepages.com/kennedycenterhonors-moorhousecollegeglee

WOW! Talk about a blast from the past. I have mentioned my appearance on Kennedy Center Honors with my fellow Morehouse brethren as we honored Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Conductor and Composer Robert Shaw but I only had it on VHS and hadn’t seen it in many, many years (It was taped in December 1991). Well, now there’s proof. It’s a holiday special I always looked forward to seeing (even as a child)... and clearly some years carry extra weight than others (i.e. Diana Ross being honored in 2007). But for me to be chosen by the producers my senior year to speak on behalf of my beloved Morehouse College Glee Club was truly a highlight... and still (after all these years). What a look BACK TO MY FUTURE!!!! Gwen asked “WERE YOU EVER THIS YOUNG?” I replied: “I am STILL 'THAT' YOUNG - boasting a 29" waist from high school... black not cracking... still have my hair (though a chosen bald do)... and I am ever-connected to my inner child.” LOL!

"FUNDAMENTAL THINGS"

Remember I mentioned how my girl Marcia Pendelton (www.walktallgirlproductions.com) was working on ticket sales for a great stage piece “The Love Project” with Rhodessa Jones and Idris Ackamoor. Well, Ant and I invited Tata, Jules (www.julespainting.com), my Itika (in town from Chicago), and her buddy Myiesha to join us. We had a GREAT TIME... and for all of those within the sight of these words: GO SEE THE SHOW THIS THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY, and/or SUNDAY! IT IS A TREAT (WE ARE LIKELY TO GO BACK! LET'S ALL HOOK UP AND GO TOGETHER!!!!! It’s an organic, interactive piece that is SO MUCH FUN. It is considered part house party, part TV talk show, and part cabaret that testifies to the network of human relations that define our time. Take a look: http://www.culturalodyssey.org/v2/season/loveproject/video.php. But more than that, know that you will have a GREAT TIME! As the interactive piece of it goes, I even got to participate in several parts of it. (It also reminded us a bit of our favorite Broadway musical from 2008 “Passing Strange” which Spike Lee adapted into a film which received critical raves at The Sundance Film Festival

(www.festival.sundance.org/2009/film_events/films/passing_strange). Ant, Noot (my nephew), others and I attended one of the filmings last July.

"IT'S YOUR LOVE"

Speaking of LOVE, remember the duo Karmina I told you about last April (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/2/just-like-little-children-know-how-they-have-fun.html)? Well, the sexy duo reached out to me with some news (www.karmina.com/). Kelly & Kamille have a new blog, "Forbidden Love Stories," that relates to their song that we talked about that night "The Kiss". "The Kiss" was influenced by both the painting "The Kiss" (Gustav Klimt) and Romeo and Juliet? In the song's bridge, the girls intertwine some of their lyrics with 'Will's' prose: "palm to palm let lips do what hands do, they pray. Is it a sin to do what we want to? Don't care where we've been, give me my sin again..." After they met Anthony and me, they wished they’d met us just a couple of weeks prior as they would have loved us to ‘kiss’ in their video. The music video includes footage of real-life couples who have had to overcome similar Forbidden Love situations, involving bigotry, the judgment of their friends and family and the pressures of society, just to be together and express their love for each other. The blog site features interviews with these couples, including two gay couples, as they relate their Forbidden Love Stories and the incredible challenges they have faced in order to be together. You can watch the video at this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sl4uhCR-GHc

As for the new blog, "Forbidden Love Stories": please do take a look: http://www.IWishtheWorldCouldHear.com This is a blog/forum where people can both read others' stories and share their own personal stories of Forbidden Love. For example, one person recently told her story on this blog and used it as a plea to her parents to accept her new wife into the family and understand and support their love, and her story. Kelly & Kamille wrote "The Kiss" and did the music video well before California's Prop 8 came along, but the message coincides perfectly with the fight against the bigotry of Prop 8 and other similar initiatives. The images of the various couples in their music video as they reach out to each other and kiss, poignantly speaks to these current issues and touches people's hearts. In fact, they’ve been asked to put together an event, along with the local L.A. City Council office and some other major Hollywood players, including Jack Black (OMG--did you see him on "The Office"--that relationship with Cloris Leachman would qualify as Forbidden Love!! - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNqSpFiBNEU). The purpose of the event is to continue to raise awareness in support of gay marriage, and they will feature some of their blog couples' Forbidden Love Stories. Their hope is for the blog to continue to grow as a very important and special forum for sharing, communicating, education and awareness on the challenges of Forbidden Love, resulting in more tolerance, love and support among all involved. (“NOAH’S ARC: JUMPING THE BROOM” is out on DVD this week. If you missed it in the theaters, it’s a good for the DVD player: www.logoonline.com/shows/dyn/noahs_arc_jumping_broom/series.jhtml).

"THE BEST OF EVERYTHING"

After the matinee of “The Love Project”, Ant, Tata, Jules, and I hung out in the East Village (near La Mama: Theatre of the World where the show took place – www.lamama.org). We enjoyed a quick snack at Pommes Frites authentic Belgian fries (www.pommesfrites.ws) before heading up to our good girlfriend Charlie T (www.myspace.com/justasweareproject) and (www.charlietphotography.net) and her partner Danielle’s place for a Super Bowl party!

Beyond Miss Ross’ half-time show in 1996 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0LTe3zEXiU) when she hailed a helicopter for her exit... and way back when she set the tone for diva national anthems in 1982, I usually have little interest in The Super Bowl.

But where there is a party, food, cool commercials, and – Kleenex in hand – Jennifer Hudson performing in public for the first time since her horrible family tragedy (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dc8W9jJSpIs), I can stay entertained.

And this year, I have to say ‘the game’ was a treat!

My “Steelers” won – an admiration I carry from their unstoppable reign in the ‘70s (I even had ‘Steelers’/NFL sheets on my twin bed as a child).

From James Harrison’s interception and history-making touchdown (after a record-breaking, 100-yard run to get there - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoxSFBHbA80) to 36-year-old Mike Tomlin becoming the youngest coach to win a Super Bowl title (and first African American coach for the Steelers).

We met some fab folks – including Peggy Dodson (www.urbanbroadcasting.com); Brenda; and Ellie Miss Thing.

After years of misery - trying to watch sports with my all-knowing father and brother, I never found it enjoyable as they were so advanced in their approach to the game, a simply query from me couldn't get answered nicely. So, I'd act like I knew what I was watching. 

Ant, Jules, and I were the only men in the room last night but "all the ladies" (mainly my Tata) knew more about the game and the teams than we did.

Fortunately, they were very good to answer my questions without judgement, even though I think they could give my dad and big bro a run for their money in the stats comprehension department. WHEW!!!! And in addition to eating hearty and sipping socially, we also judged commercials with our planners' very thoughtful score sheets. My favorite commercial: E-TRADE BABIES (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yhfl4mFH1No).

"WONDERFUL"

Remember I told you about being featured in a photo shoot for OUT Magazine with Sandra Lee (www.semihomemademag.com)? Well, the issue is not out yet (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/15/butterflies-begin-from-having-been-another.html). But Ms. Lee invited Ant, Cy, and me to the launch party for her first-ever magazine “Sandra lee Semi-Homemade” which will include recipes on desserts, cocktails, and crafts. The rooftop party took place at the Empire Hotel (www.empirehotelnyc.com/). We had a lovely time. CONGRATS MISS SANDRA LEE! I even ran into Vince Rubino, the Executive Producer of “Million Dollar Password” (www.cbs.com/primetime/million_dollar_password/) which you know I competed on last year. Ant, Cy, and I went to several things over these couple of days – including RUSH ARTS GALLERY’s Danny Simmons-hosted party which unveiled the NKIRU 44TH PRESIDENTIAL COLLECTION. It’s an exclusive collection of 44 custom luxury timepieces inspired by the historical election and campaign for change of President Barack Obama. Nkiru timepieces are crafted utilizing the highest standards in watch making and finest materials including meteorite, Damascus steel, 18K rose, red, yellow, white gold, platinum, and diamonds by request. A portion of proceeds of the sale of the Nkiru 44th Presidential Collection will be donated to Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation (www.rushphilanthropic.org/), a New York based foundation founded by Danny Simmons with brothers Russell and Joseph 'Rev. Run' Simmons (www.nkiruwatches.com/).    Ant's best friend and artistic soulmate from Denver, Manivone, joined us. And I ran into my Savannah homeboy and Morehouse brother Jeh.

"DECLARATION OF LOVE"

Scheduling and budget didn’t allow Ant and me yet to honor our Jason Johnson’s birthday during the window in which his partner had designed the festivities (and we look forward to celebrating both of our birthdays someday soon or when we all get together in April for Ant and Marqice’s respective birthdays). But there were many other birthday celebrations that we were able to make the fabulous set that Ted Gibson (www.tedgibsonsalon.com) threw for his partner at the National Arts Club (www.nationalartsclub.org/). This well-appointed, elegant set included a roast, floating appetizers, delicious cocktails, and an intimate room of Ted and Jason’s closest friends and family – including Jason’s mother who came in from Minnesota and Jason’s fellow-“Up With People” castmates from back in the day. The whole program had a "JASON! THIS IS YOUR LIFE"-appeal! Our good girlfriend Dr. Shirley Madhere was in the house and is always a blast to hang around (www.drshirleymadhere.com/). We also met some new people including Neil Cohen who serenaded Jason (www.myspace.com/neilcohensings). And Jose and Rick who are great hair stylists and business owners in the city. Jose provided the lion’s share of these pictures. Another birthday: My Savannah homeboy and one of my best friends Maurice Marable was the guest of honor at a Surprise 40^th birthday set at 60 Thom (www.60thompson.com/). Always good to see him, but even more exciting to see some of our New York City transplants by way of Savannah like Joicelyn and Rae. It had been many years since I’ve seen Rae. Though different high schools, we hung out in some of the same circles. Also, it had been a minute since I’d seen Butch Robinson, super-producer with Drop Squad Productions. We met many years ago when he and his colleagues came to Atlanta in 1993 to shoot “Drop Squad” with Spike Lee. That’s how Maurice met him and that meeting would lead Maurice to New York City. I would soon follow suit in 1995. Our girl Karen made all of this happen.  Then, our boy Jamar had a birthday celebration. It took place at one of our haunts “SECRET”. And it was great to celebrate him. But also it was Miss Natasha's bday. And so many other friends were in the room that I hadn’t seen socially in a minute: i.e. Christian; Kevin; Frankie; Shawn; Nectarios; Hal, etc.   (Folks aren’t hanging out as much with less disposable to boot). I was even able to enroll my ‘Amazing Grace’ Nichole into joining us. She brought two of her Dallas friends – including lifelong friend Nanette. And my Itika was in town and popped by with her girls. Always good to see her. And good for Ant and me to be out joyfully - outward focused to our inward problems (Did I tell you our hot water tank went on the blink and we had to replace it? Imagine the temps of late and no hot water - for just a day. Needless to say, it wasn't in the budget... but I digress... ) "Outward focus!" HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO EVERYBODY... and my "Original Amazing Grace" Natalie. STAY FOREVER YOUNG!