Happy New Year y'all. This is your favorite blogger, Ma'atology and I am back.
Did ya'll miss me? I surely have missed ya'll. Two weeks may seem
not that long, but in journalism time, it is definitely murder
suicide, but just like flowers to water, one needs to stop and grow
you know.
The past year has been a valley and mountain for me (and I'm sure for
us all). From traveling to Cali and Chi-town to being nan homoree in
this year's National Black Who's Who book to hearing shocking health
news about a dear friend to me (which I will talk about later in my
post).
Nevertheless, such is life.
Now as far as a resolution, I want to do more productions for stage
and focus more on the entrepreneur side of myself, work even more
on my weight training, be more diligent in returning people's calls
and try and seek a better relationships with Artego (who I call God),
family, friends, my love life and myself.
But I digress.
Let me tell yawl what's been going on news-wise and my travels
during my two week hiatus.
I'm sure we all are still in mourning over the passing of legendary soul artist James Brown (PICTURED ABOVE) who died on early X-mas morning at the age of 73 at Emery Hospital in the ATL (reports are saying he was older and died alone with only his agent at his bedside) M )from congestive heart failure due to a bout of pneumonia. I heard the sad news when I woke up to open up gifts as my family gathered around the tree as my mother, who was stalking to her brother from Chi-town on the phone, said that he had passed.
The other two shockers were the passing of Pres. Gerald Ford (PICTURED ABOVE) who
died the following day on Dec. 26 (You know death come in threes)at the age of 93. Well, that news eclipsed the death of James Brown as the nation returned to the White House for his funeral (and a tacked on day of reckoning on Jan. 2 as the US Postal Service and other governmental building had a holiday)
Then former Iraqi pres Suddam Hussein (PICTURED ABOVE) was executed on New Years Eve for his role in the killings of hundreds of his own people during his presidency. Well, this was (and still is) THE news story as showings of Hussein’s neck in a noose filtrated the Internet with a
Fervor. But my thing is, those who killed him was taunting him who were Shittes (Saddam was a Suni Muslim) and how some people are saying he had an unfair justice because of it (Can you imagine that?) .
In other newer national news, Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams was killed early Monday when his white stretch Hummer was sprayed by bullets after a nightclub dispute following a New Year's Eve party.
Police have no motive and no indication the 24-year-old player was targeted in the drive-by shooting of the limousine. The burst of violence occurred hours after the Broncos were eliminated from playoff contention. This is a very sad case here. A young brother snubbed from his life. From what was reported, it looked a sthough someone was upset and maybe had a bet on the Broncos being the playoffs? Who knows. What I was tripping off of was when I saw Geraldo Rivera’s show, “Geraldo At Large” and on this segment, some of the journalist were saying all this stemmed from the OJ Simpson trial of all this violence. What the hell does OJ has to do with a drive-by shooting?
The 110th Congress convened Thursday with Democrats in control of both the House and Senate for the first time in a dozen years. "Today we make history. Today we change the direction of our country," exulted Rep. Nancy Pelosi, poised to become the first woman speaker in history. Newly elected Senator Clair McCaskill from the STL was sworn in this week as well. Some of the 100 hour bills that the Dems will tackle will include the minimum wage increase, stem cell, and tax breaks on students with loans. Now how about dem’ reparations for us cullud folk?
It looks like the ’08 Presidential campaign is about to get started. The front running Dems include Sen. Hilary Clinton, Sen. Barak Obama,Sen. John Edwards and Al Gore. On the Republican side it is Sen. John Mccain and former NYC Mayor Rudy Gulliani. All I can sya is, get ready for the closets to be open on The candidates (We already found out that Baraka smoked pot and sniffed coke back in his youth and CNN is trying to find him in the caves. LOL.)
The minimium wage went up. The new year means a higher minimum wage. In Illinois, Under the terms of the legislation, the state’s minimum wage will rise by $1 to $7.50 per hour beginning July 1, 2007. Beyond that date, the legislation includes annual increases for three years: to $7.75 in July 2008, $8.00 in July 2009, and $8.25 in 2010. The legislation goes into effect July 1, 2007.. In contrast, the national minimum right now is $5.15 an hour, with a current push in Congress to raise it to $7.25. Missouri currently adheres to the national minimum, but voters approved a new $6.50 minimum that will take effect in Missouri next month. Now all of this sounds good, but we all know that the hike will be lost in a sea of inflation and the IRS.
Oprah broke ground this week for a school in South Africa during which she opened a school for girls which she has paid for. The iconic presenter spent £20m on developing the school, which is aimed at helping to give a chance to girls living in poverty. Of course critics are saying that she could have did something similar here in the U.S. but my thing is, if ya got the money to do it, then do it. If not, shaaaaat up.
ON A LOCAL TIP:
Locally, things were slow as far as major news stories over the hiatus. Thee only new story was the near melee at the ST. Clair 10 Cinema in Fairview Heights on X-ms day when several teens
got into a fight after the selling out of one of the movie sup therre (News reports never did say which movie, but I'm assuming it starting with D and ended in S.) Supposedly, the teens were in the lobby and couldnt get into the sold out show and they had no way of getting home cause apparently many of the teens were dropped off at the theater.
The other newer local storied were continuations of what was going on in 06 such as Sgt. John Brough, returning to the hospital after having X-mas with his family. He was the Belleville police officer who got shot in the face in November after the Belleville standoff with John Sicka who killed his in-laws and shot Brough in the face after shooting and killing himself. Brough lost his sight, sense of smell and needed many reconstructive surgeries on his face.
The other major story was the Board of ST. Louis Public Schools voting on whether to fire newly appointed superintendent Diana Bourisaw (PICTURED ABOVE) rather than have the State take over the financially strapped district. There was reportedly a tug of words going on with Prez. Veronica Obrien (who thought the Super should have “urban sensitivties” ) and board member Ron Jackson regarding bullying Bourisaw about her tenure at the Board but she won by a hair (4-3) for her job to be in tact, but the Board will find out whether they will be replaced with a State Board sometime next week with would wipe out the current board and replace it with a new board. My thing is, didn’t Obrien support Bourisaw to become Super when the Board ousted Creg Williams? Now Obrien wanted Bourisaw out? What is really going on with this cut and run antics?
Ameren UE is considering lighting up their prices ten percent for Missouri customers. Residents are getting the chance to sound off on the matter with the first of four public hearings. The first was held Tuesday morning at the Thornhill Branch of the St. Louis Count Library in Maryland Heights. The hearings allow customers to comment on the proposed rate hike. This is a no brainer on this one. The public is gonna raise hell on this one.
And Now on to my travels.
Before the holidays hit, I went to a couple of functions. I went to Stress Free Fridays on Dec. 15 that was held at Posh (formerly Churchills) in the Central West End. It was a nice turnout and ran into several people who I knew including socialite-cum-actor Therron Joseph (who told me about his upcoming b-day party in July), Serena Robinson, and Guy Dunn (who is cribbing in Chi-town and the Lou). They had some free eats (chicken and croudetay)and found out that fashion
designer Nicci Bionds bartend there as well. I was also shocked to see dee-jay Nappy Needles in the cut and not spinning on the wheels of steels. It wa sod seeing him partying with us regular folk. LOL .
Later on that I checked out Laughs on the Landing that had regional
comedians who were in the finals to be chosen to perform on next year's Def Comedy Jam on HBO. Def Jam recruiter Bob Sumner(PICTURED ABOVE ON STAGE) was there and it was hosted by McGriff. Greenlight Entertainment sponsored the two shows and some of the comedians on board were Arvin Mitchell, Maurice G, Ms. Arkansas who was like Lil Kim with a mike, Eric Rivers and Mutwase (who was givin you Richard Pryor with his eyes closed--literally).
But the highlight was transvestite comedian Flame (yes, the one who got into it with comedienne Sheryl Underwood on "Comic View") who ambushed the crowd with his Carmen Jones meets Carmen Electra attire on and "reading" the crowd from fat women to how to detect a down low brother. I think we were all in shock cause to see "shim" live in and in color is hard to comprehend in one sight…………
On Sat. Dec. 16 I checked out event planners SYGU's networking event at restaurant Kitchen K on 10th and Washington. It was packed up in therre. It was five bone sto get up in therre. I got therre about 11ish and I was walking three steps at a time to walk through therre. I had a couple of CAMOs before I got therre, so I was a bit buzzed on what was going on. But I managed to see who was therre including Steve Lacy, No. 1 socialite Mocha Latte (no shocker therre), St. Louis American's Melvin Moore, Tiffany Graham (Sorry I took you off my list), videographer Dana Christian, and even some of the comedians from Laughs were there (and were staying upstairs). I believe DJ Enoch were on the 1s and 2s cause I saw him outside after one of the guys from SYGU was shouting from the top of his lungs that it was time to get up out of therre. I also scouted two guys to audition for my upcoming male fashion show project."………….
On Wed, Dec. 20, I finally checked out Mocha Latte's (PICTURED ABOVE) very popular weekly Lyrics At The Lou show at the Filter Bar (former Nik’s Wine Bar) in the Central West End wherr people can sing or do poetry on the mike. It was a decent turnout (about 80 or so). I got therre before the admission kicked in (5 bones) and had a brief conversation with Filter owner Troy, who I knew from the early part of this decade when he used to own Troy’s on the Park in Lafayette Square. He remembered me right away (“I don’t forget a face” he said) as I gave him my current info and asked for a Cappacino to drink.
Meanwhile, that week's show was a special show for it being close to X-mas and all and its host Mocha Latte having audience members participate in a Rob Your Neighbor Gift Game. She also had a Who's Sexy contest for the guys for some of the candies she had. Four guys came up to be judges (one guy shouldn’t have gotten up).What was funny was signer Coco Soul had walked near me and said that i should go up therre to be judges. But I was feelin all of that plus it wasnt that serious.
As far as the poets and singers, the ones I remembered were female poet team Thunder and Lightning , socialite Jamie Spencer who sang ac capella John Legend's "I Used to Love You" and singer Coco Soul who turned it out (in Eskimo shoes and all. LOL) on Chaka's "Through the Fire." The poetry was well...aural stimulation. The poets mostly talked about freaky sex but therre was one guy who read an interesting double entendre poem about his loving his wife but loving another, who was a brother and being very explicit with the lovemaking, but come to find out the other brother was himself. Well, he definitely had the crowd
on an emotional rollercoaster with that one…………………
On Thursday, Dec. 21, I went to a small get together at X-Jam's crib in the South Side,. It was about eight or so therre. I brought some blue rum. It was OK. I mostly went to be nosy and see his new house that X-Jam purchased. We mostly sat around and watched the movie Miami Vice on a plasma TV…………….
On Fri. Dec. 22 I went to Hipster Magazine's free pre-X-mas celebration at Posh. It was packed like pecan ice cream in a carton up in therre (and with Posh being as small as a thimble, it wasn’t hard to do). But err body showed up who was somebody including Hot Morning Show's Wendy Brown, St. Louis American's Bill Beene, St. Louis Post's Kevin Johnson, socialites Big Tah and Mocha Latte, SYGU, fashion designer Wynette B, First Friday bouncer Al Wade, and club security officer Brian Stemmons. there were also a lot of out of towners therre that I recognized who I attended SIU-Edwardsville with as well.
I was supposed to have went to Rams' Travis Fisher's party at Dolce but it seemed as though err body was at Posh, so I stayed therre until it was time for me to me to go in to work. After I left and drove on Maryland to get to Kingshighway, I saw that there was a party going on at Mandarin and saw Rams player Steven Jackson outside talking to some groupies……………..
On Sunday, Dec 24 I attended Steve Lacy's (LIGHT SKINN'D GUY PICTURED ABOVE) X-mas eve bash at his crib on the South Side. Befere I got therre, I picked up a buddy of mine, CJ who stayed near the South Side. I got to the party about 10ish (I got caught up in the Christmas Story movie marathon on TBS. LOL) and the party folks were alive and kickin up in therre.
Before I got therre, I heard most of Steve's family was therre and I was told to get therre about 9 when his fam would be leavin the party.
The first person I recognized up in therre was former Majic 104.9 personality Denine Busby who I shared niceties with and complimented me on my out-fit (blue dress shirt, blue striped vest, blue tie with whit epolka dits , blue kangol, blue faded jeans and blue converse). Then, I saw two of my college buddies therre, Michael Ford (who put on this event) and Vincent Jenkins.
Ford was as shocked as a wet finger to a light socket when he saw me. He wasn’t expecting me therre and it was a sight to see (I would have had pics but I decided to put the cammunition down for this hiatus)
Ford, Jenkins and I talked about the old days and what was in store in our lives. Meanwhile the crowd was gettin their buzz on with a canteen thatwas filled with martini (and that changed colors from yellow, to red to blue).
Lacy had given guests Gucci ice cubes for their drinks, but that was probably all that he remembered doin cause my boy enjoyed himself a bit much at the soiree when he fell in a drunken stupor, not once, not twice but tres--as in three times. That was just too much playin.
I know I was half passed buzzed, but I wasnt going to get myself that pissy drunk. But as the party went on, people were gettin their dance on in the living room and I was feelin good. I think I had about four martinis that were strong as a musty armpit. One more and I would have been humpin the banister like one of the female guests were doin as the night went on. LOL…….
On X-mas day, I woke up with the shocking news that signer James Brown had died earlier that day. , it's hard to digest at first, then I turned on the radio for X-mas soundz and ran into the Hot Morning Show with Craig Blac and he announced it as well. Man, so it was true.
I dont know about yall but it was hard to really focus on X-mas after you hear that one of the world's gods have left this physical Earth. But my family and I pressed on during the day as we opened gifts, ate, drank and be merry. Later on that day I went in to work a double shift at the Water Geyser………………….
On Tuesday, Dec. 26, I decided to use the Wal-mart gift cards that I got for X-mas to purchase some fresh batteries for my digital tape recorder for the supposed phone interview I was scheduled to do with singer Jon B who was coming to the STL to perform at the Loft that Thursday. No call from Jon B so I didnt trip off of it.
But what was heavy on my mind was when I checked my email and opened up the mail from local actress Shawn Guy who told me that my former theater production partner and friend Sheryl Johnson was very sick and was battling cancer. I read it and read it again and I was in shock. Her email read that she would love to hear from me. I havent seen or heard from her in three years. She was in transition with her gallery Hatshepsut Studio closing in 2002 and I was dealing with getting my departure at the St. Louis American in late 2003.
I promised to talk with her since, but with life and travels and everyday things, calling her fell under the radar and vice versa. Hearing news of her illness brought me back to what I need
to do and that is call her to see how she is doing (This is developing)….
Also on Tuesday, I decided to check out the movie Dreamgirls. I must say, that this is a beautifully made movie. The costumes are breathtaking and the acting form its principal actors (what was up with Different World star Dawn Lewis not having a speaking line?) are on point (especially Jennifer Hudson as Effie, Eddie Murphy as thunder early and surprisingly Keith Robinson as C. C.)
Beyonce was OK, but she came alive near the end of the film after she found her ERA rights strumph. It will be interesting how the Oscars will nominate this film (and I'm sure it will be), but more interesting is to see who will win. This 75 million budgeted film, has made 40 million so far (and debuted at No. 3 on the box Office charts)…….
On Thursday, Dec. 28, I attended the Jon B concert (PICTURED ABOVE) at the Jazz Loft that was put on in part by Inkosi Entertainment (aka Kevin Bryant's money. LOL) and Vanita Applebum. I got therre about 8ish and as I was walking to the club, I saw poet Fo Feet walking the opposite direction away from the club. She was on her celly and I stopped and talked with her briefly and she said that she couldn’t wait around any longer for the show to begin and that she had to leave. That wasnt a good sign, but I knew it wasnt going to start on time cause it is a live show and live shows don’t have set scripts.
When I got therre, I walked inside and saw two familiar faces Freeman Bosley Junior Show's Nicci Roach who was "wo-manning" the media/VIp list and Applebum. I was about to flip my media pass, but when I saw them, I knew it was cool to go on through. Nicci scratched off my name and gave me a VIP bracelet but then therre was a sister sitting next to Nicci who asked, "Who is he?" I just looked, played it off and told Nicci, playfully,"Next time, put a star next to my name."
After I got searched, and hugged Applebum (who told me about the new VIP room they had) I proceeded to walk up front wherr the stage was. It was hundreds of people up in that spot. The scene reminded me when Mississippi Nights had packed houses for concerts. When I got up near the front, I felt someone tag me on the arm and it was house dee-jay Soundz who asked was I working tonight. I turned around and gave him some dap. Then host, Majic personlaity Isis Jones greeted err one (what wassup with your cape coat sista girl. Werre you that cold? LOL).
She held down the stage as always but she was doing her share of stalling even for one of thr two opening acts, MoTRe. She told the crowd to be patient as she went to see what was the hold up. Meanwhile, Soundz was on the 1s and 2s as people waited for the show to start.
As we were still waiting, Isis decided to kill time by singing a song from her upcoming CD, Woman child ac capella style. She did a decent job and the audience was receptive but people were waiting anxiously for Mr Jon B. And just as I was taking pics of Isis, my camera batteries were low and they shut off and I couldnt take anymore pics. Something was telling me that I was to take a break from snapping during my hiatus.
It was around 9ish when the first act R&B trio, Motre (whose CD I spotlighted last month) performed with some dancers from one of the local dance companies (the name slips me now). They did about four let-me-love-you-songs and got the female crowd ready for
Jon B.
The second opening act was Ms. NV, who acted in the Woody Award winning Black Rep's hit "Dreamgirls." I didn’t think people knew what to expect with her but just as Isis predicted, the crowd would definitely know who she was after she sang. She sang two songs, the Dreamgirls, showtopper, "I'm telling You I’m Not Going" (which got the crowd amped and hyped) and Fantasia's "Free Yourself." After her two songs, I'm sure there was many up in therre who wanted to hear her sing more. Before she left the stage she said, "I said I would only do two songs, so I can see Jon B."
There was a about a half hour break before Jon B was to perform, so I decided to check out the newly built VIP room next door to the club. Up in therre werr the movers and shakers of the Lou including Clear Channel's Arrika Parr, Selena J and Angie Brown, Better Family Life's James Clark, author Tracy Foster (thank you for being my number one fan), Freeman Bosley Junior Show's Darrion Phelps (Lets do lunch! LOL), Cafe Soul's Nichol Stevenson, Model Renata Walsh (who was working the cornroll puffs) who was doing TV correspondence for City 10,
Monica Tyson, The Posts's Kevin Johnson, and hair designer Miss Erika.
In VIP, I had a funny moment with Ms. NV, told me that she didnt want me to talk about her badly on the Internet. I told her that she didnt have to worry about that cause in my opinion, Jon B had a run for his money after her rousing performance. Then, I told her I saw the Dreamgirls movie (NV is touring with the play as we speak) and she asked me did Jennifer Hudson do a better job as Effie than she did when she performed at the Black Rep. I think I said something like, "You could have done her role."
There were also free food and drink up in VIP that was an added bonus (I missed the ‘Getti and salad, but oh well). I ran into Kevin Bryant who was trying his best to look cool as a cucumber in his brown suit and shades in regards to Jon B arriving to perform (He’s short!) , but he showed up and was on stage at about 10:30 or so. And his fans rushed to the front stage when he crooned and played the keys for them. Although he performed a 40 minute set,and his hits (accompanied by DJ Soundz' track system), the crowd was just glad to hear the blue eyed soul singer sing.
He performed his hits inclduing, "Don't Talk," "I Do," "They Don't Know" and an a ccapella version of his first hit, "Someone to Love." Throughout his set he gave tribute to James Brown and Gerald Levert and told the crowd that his wife will be expecting his first child.(Oh, I saw you Derrick Wright up in therre!).
After his set, he chilled out in VIP, as the local media interviewed him in another smaller V-VIP room. I stayed around and saw the movers and shakers schmooze. I left around midnite………………….
On Friday, Dec. 29, I went to Stress Free Fridays at 609 and chilled out with my "brother" Kamren, who does message therapy for the patrons for the weekly event. I got therre around 8ish. I was leaving the gym and called Kam and told him I was on my way.
The spot was also where Stress Free co-creator Mario Wayne (who was celebrating his b-day) and socialites Keith Harris and Robert Kirk came later for their "Relax and Breathe" set after the Stress Free event.
I got therre and talked with Kam about the upcoming year and what we were planning to do for the year to make some ends. We also talked about the crazy girl that I met at Stress Free a few weeks back when Stress Free was at the Loft (the sista who was checking my finger for a ring or a tan line from a ring).
Around 10ish, the Stress Free event ended and the Relax and Breath set was about to pop off. Meanwhile, Kam's lady Dawna came though and Guy Dunn(who was trying to take my hat off for some odd reason) as well who told me about a house party that the Missouri Mound City Bar Lawyers were throwing that was going on in the Central West End. Also coming through was Top 10 socialite hollbackboi and his crew.
I also introduced him to a sista who he wanted to holla at (she gave him her email address. Woops) After a drink and walking through the bar side (DJ Enoch was on the 1s and 2s), Ive seen enough (especially with Relax and Breathe's version of VIP with those who paid more to get in could get a VIP bracelet and sit on the restaurant side of the venue. I thought I was gonna get sick when I saw this happening. Here we go with this separatism for no reason.
Around 11, I said my goodbyes and went to the house party. I called Guy to find where exactly was the party but as soon as I turned on McPherson from Kingshighway and saw people outside the house, I knew I was in the right area. So, I parked near the house I walked toward the party. I saw Freeman Bosley Junior on the celly talking to somebody (oops) as he was preparing to leave. Mr. Dunn was all over this sista who was looking very panicked
and she saw me seeing her panic.
I walked in the this roomy house and people were all over. I saw some familiar faces including my high school and college friend Michele Foster (who was with her husband),Mavis Thomspon,and a few guys from the gym at Bally including sports lawyer Michael Bennett.
Hollabackboi and his crew came though about a half hour after I did and the crowd was good and liquored around this time. I met a few sistas who were there including a sista who worked for thr Roberts Brothers Companies (who had on a low cleaved black short sleeved tank that had the letters S H I T in red glitter) and this sista named Loretta (who I’ve met before) who was 45 years old but looked like she was no older than 30 who was messing with me and the crew I was hangin with trying to freak us...with her eyes (You had to be there).
But the highlight was this young white guy in the sitting room who was gettin his strip on during the James Brown tribute. Thankfully, he kept his clothes on, but he was gyrating on the floor and sitting on the ladies laps in that room. I was waiting for the dollaz to start flying around (Where did he think he was at, Boxers and Briefs in Cahokia?)
It was around 1 or so in the AM and I called the Water Fountain to tell the officer that was therre that I was going to be running late and for the officer to go ahead and lock up. I hate to leave, but as supervisor, I had to be responsible and take care of my duty (even missing the freekum after party that I have yet to hear about). As I was walking out through the corridor, one of the guys who go to my gym said to an older white lady about me, "You better get his autograph, cause that brother right there is about to blow up." Well, she grabbed my arm and slurred something in my ear, but I didnt hear what she said. I was already late for my shift but I smiled and just waved as I walked out the door……..
On Sat. Dec. 30, I got a text from DIVA Panning (the ladies who put on the Marshall Faulk Fashion SHow) talking about their party they were having at the Dime Slot off West Florissant. I talked to DIVA co-creator Gina (Gina-Gina-Gina!)Covington (who said she saw me out on X-mas eve) who told me to roll through their set. So, I told her I would. It was around 10 or so when I drove 40 minutes to get to the spot.
It started to rain pretty heavily and as I parked and walked up to the venue, I looked in and saw one of the DIVA members Traci sitting at a table with some guests. Just as I was about to go in, I changed my mind. I decided not to go in and stood outside with some of the other guests who were leaving.
I dont know why I didnt go in, but I decided to drive back to the East Side, go to the Casino Queen, get some of their nachos (which are pretty good BTW), wait inside my car, listen to some music and drove around the back streets to relieve the security officer that was preparing to leave before the late shift………………….
On Sun Dec. 31, I chilled out, watched TV (The movie , "The Prodcuers” is actually pretty good BTW), and celebrated the New Years with my fam (which is a first in a long time). We celebrated with grape cider and watching Dick Clark's Rockin Eve" (Dick Clark needs to hang it up. It was hard to look at him struggling to talk) I got a couple of texts from some friends who wished me Happy New Year (Tianisha Loyd, Kevin Johnson and Randall Beans) soon after the clock struck, watched more TV and fell asleep.......................................................
STL-TIDBITZ. I heard that Rapper Nelly proposed to girlfriend pop diva Ahsanti over the X-mas holidays over Ashnati’s mother’s house. It has been stated that Nelly popped the question Christmas Eve according to a close friend of the family. The hip-hop rapper was stated to have gotten on one knee after everyone had exchanged gifts and proceeded with his proposal to Ashanti. To confirm the allegation, Ashanti's business management company was contacted but was not available at the time. The couple has been stated to have been dating since 2003…..Congrats to Alton-Ill. Bred director Brian Jung for his Alton-based filmed movie, “Steel City” receiving an Independent Spirit Award nomination for actor Raymond Barry in the Best Supporting Actor category ….Club Toxic is now Society. Lets see hwo long this one will last. LOL....Congrats to the local film "Apocalypse and the Beauty Queen" for its DVD distribituion. On January 23, 2007, ABQ will be released for rental from Blockbuster and Netflix, in addition to retail sale through outlets including the Movie Gallery and Amazon.com. For more ABQ information and movie trailer, visit: "http://www2.blogger.com/'http://www.abeautyqueen.com heard that Runway fashions owner Samson is soon to open up a club near Page and Skinker…..I hear that St. Lousi bred comic/actor Cedric the Entertainer's new movie, "Codename: Cleaner" is not getting good reviews. The Indianapolis Star called it " lame and inane". Ouch. Well I guess we'll be the just of that when it comes out tomorrow, Jan. 5....Where is Fox 2 funny guy Tim Ezell?
MA’AT-IDBITZ. I had another fashion show audition last month on Dec. 9 and 10 at the Emerson Library and the Missouri History Museum and at a potential model’s home (PICTURES OF THE MODELS ARE ON OUT 134) . My photo shoot with Paris before the holidays turned out great. We did the photo shoot at the Missouri History Museum in one of its classrooms. I also was conducting fashion show auditions at the same time….My article on the art exhibit, “Interplay” at the Regional Arts Commission can be seen on the West End Word Newspaper’s website http://www.westendword.com/.
MA’AT-IDBITZ. I had another fashion show audition last month on Dec. 9 and 10 at the Emerson Library and the Missouri History Museum and at a potential model’s home (PICTURES OF THE MODELS ARE ON OUT 134) . My photo shoot with Paris before the holidays turned out great. We did the photo shoot at the Missouri History Museum in one of its classrooms. I also was conducting fashion show auditions at the same time….My article on the art exhibit, “Interplay” at the Regional Arts Commission can be seen on the West End Word Newspaper’s website http://www.westendword.com/.
As a matter of fact, I got an email from WEW interim editor in chief Kara Krekeler over my hiatus about the curator of Interplay, Robert Longyear commenting about my article. He wrote:
“Just a short note to express my gratitude for the running of the
Interplay feature. I had a wonderful time speaking with Marcus
about the project, and he wrote it up quite nicely. Best Regards,
Robert Longyear
I guess Ise still got it. LOL.
“Just a short note to express my gratitude for the running of the
Interplay feature. I had a wonderful time speaking with Marcus
about the project, and he wrote it up quite nicely. Best Regards,
Robert Longyear
I guess Ise still got it. LOL.
Here’s the numbers from my out town blog as of last week
Site Summary
VISITS outtown.blogspot.com
Total 299
Average Per Day 4
Average Visit Length 1:33
Last Hour 0
Today 2
This Week 28
PAGE VIEWS
Total 708
Average Per Day 11
Average Per Visit 2.6
Last Hour 0
Today 4
This Week 74
Site Summary
VISITS outtown.blogspot.com
Total 299
Average Per Day 4
Average Visit Length 1:33
Last Hour 0
Today 2
This Week 28
PAGE VIEWS
Total 708
Average Per Day 11
Average Per Visit 2.6
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EVEN-TIDBITZ The Black Rep will open their 30th mainstage season with the Tony Award-winning musical revue AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’, January 3 – February 4, 2007 at the Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square. The Black Rep’s 30th Season is presented by Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
Season subscriptions for all five shows range from $100 to $180 and are on sale now. Single tickets range $27.50 – $40.00 and will go on sale Tuesday, December 5, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. To reserve your seat please call (314) 534-3810 or visit www.theblackrep.org
The Black Rep’s production will feature several perennial favorites including J. Samuel Davis, Drummond Crenshaw, Anita Jackson, Theresa Williams, and Julia Nixon. The production’s creative team is led by Ron Himes as director.
Performance Schedule:Wednesday and Thursday Previews at 7:00 p.m.Thursday performances at 7:00 p.m.Friday and Saturday performances at 8:00 p.m.Saturday and Sunday matinee performances at 3:00 p.m.SUBWAY Noonday Series: Join the director and designers for a lively discussion on Thursday, January 4 at 12:00 p.m., lunch provided by Subway Delmar LoopCast Connection Night post-show discussions, Thursday, January 11 and 25Student Matinee performances January 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2007 at 10:00 a.m..........................
STRESS FREE FRIDAYS will take place Friday, January 5 at 5pm at Urban (www.urbanongrand.com) located at 3216 S. Grand Blvd ( 314-772-3308) **EARLY ARRIVAL IS HIGHLY SUGGESTED! If you have not registered to receive the weekly email updates, please visit www.stressfreefridays.com.............
The metalsmiths who were chosen and paired up for Interplay are Michael T. Gleason and Jessica Erickson; Margaret M. Fetter and Lisa Colby; Jeri Changar and Judith McLaughlin; and Michael Parrett and Peggy Eng. They will talk about their work during a special event at the Regional Arts Commision, located at 6128 Delmar Blvd, on Jan. 10 t 7 -p.m...............
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx will perform live at the Fox Theatre on Wednesday, January 10 at 8pm. Ticket prices are $69.75 & $59.75 and on sale now. His performance will be a combination of song, from his hit album Unpredictable, and comedy, with Foxx returning to his roots. Presented by Fox Concerts, Bay Area Productions and Another Planet Entertainment.
Jamie Foxx is nominated for three 2007 Grammy Awards including Best R&B Album for Unpredictable, Best Rap Duo/Group for “Georgia” with Ludacris and Best R&B Performance by a Duo/Group for “Love Changes” with Mary J. Blige from Unpredictable. Unpredictable topped the charts in late December 2005 and early 2006. It held the #1 spot for five weeks and sold more than one million units in 20 days.
In 2005, Foxx earned two Grammy Award nominations, one for his single, "Creepin'," on the album So Amazing: An All-Star Tribute to Luther Vandross, and another for his work with Kanye West on the single "Gold Digger." Besides his thriving music career, his work in front of the camera earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor in 2005 for his portrayal of the legendary Ray Charles in the Taylor Hackford-directed biopic "Ray."
In addition to winning the Oscar, Foxx swept the Golden Glove, Screen Actors Guild (SAG), BAFTA, and NAACP Image Awards, as well as numerous critics’ awards for his performance in "Ray." Also in 2005, Foxx garnered Oscar, Golden Globe, SAG Award, BAFTA Award, and Image Award nominations in the category of Best Supporting Actor for his work in Michael Mann's dramatic thriller "Collateral," in which he starred with Tom Cruise.
Foxx is also the first African-American actor to be nominated for two Oscars in the same year, and is only the second man in history to receive two acting Oscar nominations in the same year for two different movies. This month, Foxx stars with Beyonce Knowles in the film "Dreamgirls," the movie version of the stage play that is loosely based upon the lives and careers of Motown act, The Supremes.
Foxx first came to fame as a comedian. After spending time on the comedy circuit, he joined the landmark Fox sketch comedy series "In Living Color." In 1996, he launched his own series, "The Jamie Foxx Show."
Tickets for Jamie Foxx The Unpredictable Tour are on sale now at the Fox Theatre Box Office and all MetroTix locations. To Charge by phone call 314/534-1111 or online at http://www.metrotix.com/. For more information visit: http://www.jamiefoxx.com/.
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1st Mixtape CD and Release Party. Bishop V-Luv will host .For More Information Contact Bishop V-Luv @ 314-574-9601Email: bishopvluv@yahoo.com
UNWRAPPED2, SATURDAY, JANUARY 13th 6pm to 8pm ART+MUSIC A GALLERY BLENDING ART+MUSIC Come join us to preview the works by Kevin McCoy featuring free Red Bull & Vodka, light refreshments, and soulful music provided by DJ Needles! LOCATION at VAUGHN CULTURAL CENTER (located inside Urban League) 3701 Grandel Square COST$FREE.
UNWRAPPED2, SATURDAY, JANUARY 13th 6pm to 8pm ART+MUSIC A GALLERY BLENDING ART+MUSIC Come join us to preview the works by Kevin McCoy featuring free Red Bull & Vodka, light refreshments, and soulful music provided by DJ Needles! LOCATION at VAUGHN CULTURAL CENTER (located inside Urban League) 3701 Grandel Square COST$FREE.
DIRECTIONS Take Grand to Delmar and turn West. Go half a block and the gallery is located on the left. CONTACT INFO:guerilla_mrktng@hotmail.com
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From Sharee Galvin’s CORNER:
From Sharee Galvin’s CORNER:
MONDAYS: LOOKING OF THE AFTERWORK EARLY RUSH- MARTINI MONDAY'S @ THE LOFT FREE HAPPY HOUR 5-7PM 3$ MARTINI SPECIALSHOSTED BY GARTH ADAMS & CRAIG BLAC W/ DJ CHARLIE CHAN FREE BEFORE 7PM, 5$ BEFORE 8PMBIG TAH'S MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL @ THE MAIN INGREDIENTFREE FOOD AND DRINK SPECIALS (BEER & MARTINI 'S)COME HANGOUT, WATCH THE GAME & SHOOT SOME POOL 5$ COVER ALL NIGHT LONG
TUESDAYS: The ULTIMATE 2$ TUESDAY AT DREAMS-HOSTED BY STACISTATIC FREE TIL MIDNIGHT ANDTWITZID TUESDAY'S AT THE SOFT TOUCH HOSTED BY BIG JAY
WEDNESDAYS: "HUMP DAY-GOT LYRICS?" COME HANG OUT WITH ME@ THE FILTER BAR FREE B4- 8 ONLY 5$ AFTER 8- POETS 3$DRINK SPECIALS..FRIDAYS—STRESS FREE
FRIDAYS—THE LOFT AND CHECK OUT 5$ FRIDAYS HOSTED BY POTZEE AND THE UC MEFAMILY@ DREAMS...WHERE THE STARS PLAY DRINK SPECIALS ALLNIGHT LONG...SPONSORED BY 'JC' COGNAC…
SATURDAYS--Sweet Saturdays at the Filter Bar, msuic and complimentary sweets 8p-9p, Cover charge $5 9 p.m.-1 amMiss Galvin is also looking for classmates who went to Sumner Class of 1997.
Big Jay Presents Dreams Do Come True by teresa, 2007 V-Day Extravaganza, networking/social party, hosted by BET comeic Lil Rock, Sat. Feb. 10 at Ceadrs, 939 Lebanon, 7 p.m., $50, $100 VIP, $150 Couples.
Looking for Promotion Models OF ALL> ETHNICITIES...who will promote for companies such as> Seagram's, Malibu, Martell, Stoli Vodka.> > I wanted to inform you that on January 4, 2007 at> 6:00 pm> > "West One Promotions" will be interviewing for New> Promotion Models. > > If you are interested please come out with a current> resume, TWO photo's* > (1) head shot > (1) full body shot (a comp card if you have it)> and a valid ID saying you are 21 years of age> > The interviews will take place at Dreams Night Club> formerly known as the Kastle. > > The address is 3207 Washington Ave (3 blocks up from> the Fox Theater). > > If you have any questions please contact:> Lisa West at 314-348-3907 or via email at> Lisa@westonepromotions.com
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GNHPAC presents Je’Caryous Johnson’s MEN, MONEY & GOLD DIGGERS An I’m Ready Productions Presentation January 25-28 for 6 performances Fox Theatre ▪ ON SALE NOW!! $29.50 - $45.50 (depending on performance date and time) Starring Robin Givens (Boomerang & Head of State) Miguel A. Nunez, Jr. (Juwanna Mann & Life) Carl Payne (Martin & Rock Me Baby) Chico Benymon (Half and Half) Essence Atkins (Half and Half) Patrice Lovely (UniverSoul Circus)
Tickets ON SALE NOW at the Fox Box Office and Metrotix Charge by phone at 314/534-1111 or online at www.metrotix.com Group seating available by calling 314/535-2900...............
Tickets ON SALE NOW at the Fox Box Office and Metrotix Charge by phone at 314/534-1111 or online at www.metrotix.com Group seating available by calling 314/535-2900...............
FIRST FRIDAYS BOOK RELEASE PARTY *HOSTED BY THE ST. LOUIS CHAPTER NUMBER ONE STUNNAS, THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2007 6 - 9 PM ...at the St. Lunatics’ Mack’s Sports Bar & Grill 6827 Howdershell Road Hazelwood, MO 314.551.9977. Free appetizers and complimentary mixed drink of choice with purchase of book at Mack’s BOOK SIGNING SATURDAY, JANUARY 20, 2007 2 - 4PM Border’s Books & Cafe 1519 S. Brentwood Blvd. St. Louis, MO 314.918.8189 Read the first chapter, view the Reader’s Guide, and visit the author online at: www.cherlynmichaels.com..........................
If you're in Los Angeles next month, DON'T MISS THE PREMIERE OF "SWEET EVALINA" >> written & produced by: Kyona Levine. Directed by: Apaulo Malloy, February 2nd, 2007 – February 25th, 2007, at the Inglewood Playhouse, 714 Warren Lane, Inglewood CA . EVERY WEEKEND IN FEBRUARY 2007. Fridays 8:00 p.m. Saturdays 8:00 p.m. Sundays 3:00> > p.m.TICKETS ARE $15.00. RESERVE ONLINE: www.plays411.com/evalina For more information about the show and cast visit online: www.myspace.com/sweetevalina...................
AUDITION-BITZ. YOURS TRULY, am seeking male models of all
ethnicities MAATPRODUCTIONS is seeking male models or wanna
be models of all ethnicities who are at least 5' 10" tall, slim
to athletically toned build with striking features for an upcoming
out-of-the-box all male review fashion show In April 2007. Must be 18
Y.O or over, comfortable with your body. Please send 2 recent pics
(one headshot and one body shot that shows your toned build), modeling resume
(if any) and contact info to maatspear@yahoo.com.
The next auditions will be Saturday, JANUARY 13 at the Emerson Library at Webster U from noon-3p.m.
I will also have auditions for my upcoming stageplay, "Monalogues and Penisillin" at the same place (Emerson Library) , same time. I am looking for five principal African Anmerican actors in the roles of a hip-hop thug, a bougie corporate type, a drag queen, a street pimp, and a senile WWII veteran. I am also looking for an African American actress who can play different voice overs of a nurse, a beautician, and the adult daughter of the WWII veteran.
I will also have auditions for my upcoming stageplay, "Monalogues and Penisillin" at the same place (Emerson Library) , same time. I am looking for five principal African Anmerican actors in the roles of a hip-hop thug, a bougie corporate type, a drag queen, a street pimp, and a senile WWII veteran. I am also looking for an African American actress who can play different voice overs of a nurse, a beautician, and the adult daughter of the WWII veteran.
Please bring photo and resume at the audition. for more info call 618 719 3160.
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J.O.B.-ITZ. Loan Officers Needed No Experience Necessary! Will Train! Nations Funding Source, STL Recruitment and Business opportunity Where: Kingsbury Real Estate, 415 Debaliviere @ Waterman Suite 271 (Inside Pulaski Bank 2nd floor Time: 7:00pm every Tuesday Come fill out application ask for Kellie NFS agent or Juan Lewis, Broker/ Agent
J.O.B.-ITZ. Loan Officers Needed No Experience Necessary! Will Train! Nations Funding Source, STL Recruitment and Business opportunity Where: Kingsbury Real Estate, 415 Debaliviere @ Waterman Suite 271 (Inside Pulaski Bank 2nd floor Time: 7:00pm every Tuesday Come fill out application ask for Kellie NFS agent or Juan Lewis, Broker/ Agent
Small Creations Inc. is seeking individuals to teach stepping classes. Call them at 314.773.6150 or 618.960.7863............................
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SUBMISSION-BITZ. Promote your own music career world-wide. If its Indie, Gospel, Hip Hop, R&B, Pop, Rock, Latin, Jazz or what ever. The world is waiting to hear your talents. Other members can browse our artist profiles, buy or download free mp3's and business services. Create your personal or business profile today. Include your bio, stage name music, pics and more. Plus get your own shopping cart free. Chat with others in your genre, share music, blog, post pics and literature all for free. Tell your friends, family and business contacts where to find your info or tracks 24/7. Yes we do all the leg work for you we have leads to some of the industry's top promoters and labels. Our business management team, marketing team and IT department is working hard towards your success daily. ITs Free to sign up.
http://www.soonplatinum.com>Phone: 561.683.9868
ONGOING-BITZ.
If you wanna know whats happening in th3 STL concert style , email art.music.culture@gmail.com to get informed!
Check out blog http://www.sistersnineties.blogspot.com/
for local literary group Sister’s Nineties Afrocentric
literary activities for the family and youngsters
Check out Lachrisa Crenshaw’s spa products
at http://www.warmspirit.org/esuite/home/chriscspirit,
or call her at (314)401-0710 or go to
lachrisa_crenshaw@sbcglobal.net.
Check out Kameren Holbert who gives free profressional messages at
Stress Free Fridays at various venues in the ST. Louis area. For
an appt. or when he is scheduled to do messages at the next
Stress Free Fridays, call 314/477-3427 or email him at
mrholbert@yahoo.com
For body painting, makeup, face painting wigs and other special
effects, contact Jessica Dana at jessicadana.com or go to
www.myspace.com/jessicadada13
For your catering needs, check out Collective Catering
collectivecatering@yahoo.com located at
4958 Cote Brilliante, their digits are 314-575-3333)
KDHX Radio’s Chuck Lavazzi has a hot new podcast called
STAGE LEFT which he talks about CD reviews, news and interviews
from the world of stage, screen, cabaret and related places.
Go to it directly at http://tinyurl.com/zrqd7
Check out STLdee-jay Enoch online with his own radio playlist.
The Flow: Music Lounge. Peep it out at http://www.flowink.com/
player-popup.htmor go to his myspace page www.myspace/enochisreal.
Show Me Entertainment presents Industry Nights, a networking party
for artists, entertainers, models, actors,
painters, dancers, entertainment lawyers, managers, etc. every
Wednesday night at the Lindbergh Bistro located inside the Airport
Plaza inn at I-70 and Lindbergh. 18 Y.O. to enter. 21 Y.O. and up
to Drink. Admission FREE. For more info, contact Terrence Smith at
314/713-3793, or tsmith@showme1.com or http://www.showme1.com/
Local movie screener and TV programmer James Thomas has two hot
shows on the new CW Channel 11 with his shows “First Look” about
upcoming movies in theaters, Thursday morning at 2:30 am and Hot
Videos, Friday mornings at 3 a.m. For more info, email him at
tdjoo7@sbcglobal.net
Theatre advisor L.A. Barge has a new book on CD that he is selling
called, “Choosing the Right Mate Before the First Date.” For more
info call 314/5331639 or email him at dreamscope921@hotmail.com
STL videographer Dana Christian has a hot new website where people
can send their professional music videos films to get exposed. It
is http://www.spitflix.com/.
KYO (pronounced KEE-O) continues "Redefining the Art of Dining &
Nightlife" with a fresh weekly lineup that promises to quench your
thirst for drink and dance. So "Be Fashionably Elite" with a smile
and let KYO claim your evening from 5pm till 3am in the morning. For
more info go to http://www.kyostl.com/newsletter.htm
Well, that be it, folks (PSHEW THAT WAS A LOT!) . If ya got anything for me to pub, hit me up
e-mail style at maatspear@yahoo.com.
Until the next time, see ya outside in the 07!
Check out blog http://www.sistersnineties.blogspot.com/
for local literary group Sister’s Nineties Afrocentric
literary activities for the family and youngsters
Check out Lachrisa Crenshaw’s spa products
at http://www.warmspirit.org/esuite/home/chriscspirit,
or call her at (314)401-0710 or go to
lachrisa_crenshaw@sbcglobal.net.
Check out Kameren Holbert who gives free profressional messages at
Stress Free Fridays at various venues in the ST. Louis area. For
an appt. or when he is scheduled to do messages at the next
Stress Free Fridays, call 314/477-3427 or email him at
mrholbert@yahoo.com
For body painting, makeup, face painting wigs and other special
effects, contact Jessica Dana at jessicadana.com or go to
www.myspace.com/jessicadada13
For your catering needs, check out Collective Catering
collectivecatering@yahoo.com located at
4958 Cote Brilliante, their digits are 314-575-3333)
KDHX Radio’s Chuck Lavazzi has a hot new podcast called
STAGE LEFT which he talks about CD reviews, news and interviews
from the world of stage, screen, cabaret and related places.
Go to it directly at http://tinyurl.com/zrqd7
Check out STLdee-jay Enoch online with his own radio playlist.
The Flow: Music Lounge. Peep it out at http://www.flowink.com/
player-popup.htmor go to his myspace page www.myspace/enochisreal.
Show Me Entertainment presents Industry Nights, a networking party
for artists, entertainers, models, actors,
painters, dancers, entertainment lawyers, managers, etc. every
Wednesday night at the Lindbergh Bistro located inside the Airport
Plaza inn at I-70 and Lindbergh. 18 Y.O. to enter. 21 Y.O. and up
to Drink. Admission FREE. For more info, contact Terrence Smith at
314/713-3793, or tsmith@showme1.com or http://www.showme1.com/
Local movie screener and TV programmer James Thomas has two hot
shows on the new CW Channel 11 with his shows “First Look” about
upcoming movies in theaters, Thursday morning at 2:30 am and Hot
Videos, Friday mornings at 3 a.m. For more info, email him at
tdjoo7@sbcglobal.net
Theatre advisor L.A. Barge has a new book on CD that he is selling
called, “Choosing the Right Mate Before the First Date.” For more
info call 314/5331639 or email him at dreamscope921@hotmail.com
STL videographer Dana Christian has a hot new website where people
can send their professional music videos films to get exposed. It
is http://www.spitflix.com/.
KYO (pronounced KEE-O) continues "Redefining the Art of Dining &
Nightlife" with a fresh weekly lineup that promises to quench your
thirst for drink and dance. So "Be Fashionably Elite" with a smile
and let KYO claim your evening from 5pm till 3am in the morning. For
more info go to http://www.kyostl.com/newsletter.htm
Well, that be it, folks (PSHEW THAT WAS A LOT!) . If ya got anything for me to pub, hit me up
e-mail style at maatspear@yahoo.com.
Until the next time, see ya outside in the 07!
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