SGL Weekly Contents 3 Chris Tucker Hits The Stage- Is He Preparing For His Tour? 3 Halle, Oprah, Beyonce, Mariah & More Rumored To Be In New Tyler Perry Film 3 Dwayne 'The Rock" Johnson & Samuel L Jackson in New Comedy Film 4 Partnership Announced Between The New York Comedy Festival & The People's Choice Awards 13 MICHELLE O. HEADED BACK TO 'SESAME STREET' 13 LUENELL READY FOR 'MORE HUSTLIN' 13 Real Or Rumor: Maurice Murrell and Bry’Nt 14 OMAR MILLER JOINS 'CSI: MIAMI' 14 MICHAEL JACKSON BOOTS HELP FUND AIDS RESEARCH 14 KHLAMAR NOT LEGALLY MARRIED? 15 LISARAYE'S REP DENIES SHARPTON HOOKUP 16 SWIZZ BEATZ'S WIFE CALLS OUT ALICIA KEYS 17 ESSENCE ATKINS MARRIES HER INTERNET BEAU 18 CABLE NETWORK CENTRIC MAKES ITS DEBUT 6 Ask Nathan 7 Rodney Lofton Makes it Through the Rain 20 DVD’S
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What’s The T? The Entertainment Report Edited By: Cleavester
Chris Tucker Hits The Stage- Is He Preparing For His Tour?
Well during that time we discovered that "For Colored Girls" will begin shooting in Atlanta in November, with Lionsgate planning a release next year. In case you hadn't heard the play is a series of 20 poems telling stories of love, abandonment, domestic abuse and other issues faced by black women.
Since the news broke about For Colored Girls, If you remember a couple of weeks ago we an- we have heard a rumor about the casting of the nounced to you that comedian and actor Chris film, and rumor has it that Halle Berry, Oprah Winfrey, Cicely Tyson, Kimberly Elise, Ruby Tucker, probably most famous for his Rush Hour film franchise and the film Friday had re- Dee, Maya Angelou, Angela Bassett, Thandie cently agreed to put on a comedy tour with AEG Newton, Mariah Carey, Alicia Keys, Beyonce and Alfre Woodard have all joined the new film. Live. Word has it that the deals are being put into Well to add a little further proof to our claim, place and an announcement should be made soon. We will have more on this as it develops. last night at The Laugh Factory during the Chocolate Sundaes Comedy Show we got a chance to see Tucker hit the stage and work out "For Colored Girls," written by Ntozake Shange, was first performed in 1975; it was some of his new material. made into a 1982 telepic with Shange, Laurie Now, as we reported there is no word yet on set Carlos, Trazana Beverly, Alfre Woodard and tour date or who will open up for him, but we Lynn Whitfield for PBS' "American Playhouse" did discover the tour is set up for about 20-30 banner. A Broadway revival, produced by Whoopi Goldberg and starring India.Arie, was cities and is set to begin this fall. announced for the 2008-09 season but got yanked last summer when funding fell through. Halle, Oprah, Beyonce, Mariah &
More Rumored To Be In New Tyler Perry Film
Dwayne 'The Rock" Johnson & Samuel L Jackson in New Comedy Film
A couple of weeks ago it was reported that Lionsgate Films had tapped Tyler Perry to write, direct and produce an adaptation of the 1975 play "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf." The film is slated to be the first project for Perry's 34th Street Films production company, housed at Lionsgate. 3
It looks like the cast is growing of the Damon Wayans Jr. film we told you about last week. News has just dropped that the film titled The Other Guys, has
The New
now secured Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and
York Comedy Festival (NYCF) announced last
Samuel L. Jackson in the cast, along with Eva
week that a new partnership with the People's
Mendes Michael Keaton, Will Ferrell, Mark
Choice Awards that will provide two unique oppor-
Wahlberg and Steve J. Coogan.
tunities for both comedians and fans to participate in
this year's festival. For the first time ever, festivalThe Rock and Jackson play an elite cop team whose goers will have the chance to vote on and present an exploits are the envy of the department and the sec- official People's Choice Award during the "New ond-tier fellow cops played by Ferrell and Wahl-
York's Funniest Stand-Up" competition, an event
berg. Actor Steve J. Coogan will play the villain in that showcases the most talented newcomers and the film. established comedians in New York. The winner of the competition will receive the prestigious crystal Be on the look out for more news, as we hear Other People's Choice Award and will be recognized durGuys is set to bow Aug. 6, 2010. ing the 2010 People's Choice Award live broadcast
Partnership Announced Between The on CBS. New York Comedy Festival & The People's Choice Awards Additionally, the People’s Choice partnership offers aspiring comedians across the nation the opportunity to perform live as an opening act for one of the following NYCF’s headlining comedians: Tracy Morgan, Artie Lange, Mike Epps, Bill Burr, Patton
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Oswalt or Mike Birbiglia. Performers can submit a three-minute comedy routine from Sept 21 through Oct 7 on www.peopleschoice.com. A NYCF panel will post the top three performers back on the site on Oct 9 for fans to vote for their favorite and ultimately decide which comedian to send to New York to perform during the New York Comedy Festival. The winner will be announced Oct 23. In addition to performing in New York during the Festival, the winner is invited to attend the 2010 People’s Choice Awards in Los Angeles. The 2009 NYCF is presented in association with Comedy Central. The festival is produced by Carolines on Broadway and United Entertainment Group. Media sponsors include Time Warner Cable Media Sales- NYC, Time Out New York, the New York Post, The Wall Street Journal, Myspace.com, and People’s Choice Awards. Jameson is the official Irish whiskey, Travelocity is the official travel sponsor, and The Shoreham Hotel is the official hotel of the 2009 New York Comedy Festival. (More What’s the T?Cont’d on Page 13)
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Ask Nathan
Dear Nathan, I fell in love with a woman a couple of months ago. She totally turned my world upside down. The Problem is we don't live in the same state. And when I'm away for a while she always strays and it ends up being nothing and she returns to me. I don't know what to do. Should I plan on moving to the same state as her or should I let her go. Sarah Dear Sarah: Long distance relationships require a different level of commitment than most relationships. Communication is a major component as with all relationships. I challenge you to examine the pros and cons of the space apart. Both of you can live in the same city, but you have to make the declaration to be together. Create a "Sevenly" Day! _____________________________________________ Nathan "Seven" Scott Professional & Personal Life Coach Visit me online: www.nathansevenscott.com Tweet me: www.twitter.com/nathansevenscot
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Rodney Lofton Makes It Through The Rain A Cleavester Brooks Interview
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What is your latest book No More Tomorrows: Two Lives, Two Stories, One Love about? A: No More Tomorrows is a love story about living and loving in the age of HIV/AIDS. Mark who is HIV positive, awakes from a dream and realizes it is his last day on this physical earth. The story is told in dual voices from his perspective as an HIV positive man, and his partner's perspective Kevin, who is HIV negative. The story traces their relationship from their initial meeting, first date, the first time they make love and the last time they would say goodbye. Who is Rodney Lofton? A: Rodney Lofton is simple, yet complex black gay male living with HIV. He is humbled by the response he has received from both of his books. He is a kind hearted person, a loving son and a great friend. What was life like growing up in Seaboard,NC? A: I was born in Seaboard, NC while my parents were visiting my grandparents. I never actually lived there. I was born on my grandmother's bed with the assistance of a mid-wife. Cleavester: What was life like in Virginia? A: Richmond, VA is a wonderful place to live if you are ready to retire. It is a beautiful city steeped in Confederate culture, due in part to being the Capital of the Confederacy. The gay community is large for a city of its population, but unfortunately it is still closeted to some extent. There is an invisible line of racism that truly separates blacks and whites, and considering it is 2009, it is very unfortunate.
Cleavester: What did you want to be when you grow up? A: I wanted to be an Accountant. My goal was to become a CPA and drive a black Volvo with tan interior. As you can see, that didn't happen. Cleavester: When did you know you were gay? A: I realized I was gay at the age of 15. I knew I was attracted to guys, but I never acted on the feeling. Of course there were neighborhood guys I played bump and giggle with, but that was as far as it went. After my last sexual encounter with a female at the age of 15, I had my first "official" encounter with a 25 year old Theology Major. Cleavester: How did you know you were gay?
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A: I was drawn to guys. Their attractive features, in some cases, their swagger. I admired their bodies in gym class. As a late bloomer, I was envious of the body hair that adorned their legs and the traces of hair that covered the bodies and of course the treasure trail that lead to, well I will leave it at that. Cleavester: When did you move to NYC? Why did you want to move to NYC? A: I moved to NYC in 1992 to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. At the time, I became acquainted with E. Lynn Harris. We became friends after hosting a book signing for him in Richmond, VA. I mentioned to him my desire to move to NYC and the company that was handling his public relations at the time was looking for an Executive Assistant. With his suggestion, I interviewed and got the job. After serving as the Executive Assistant to the President of the company, he promoted me to Publicity. Cleavester: If you wanted to be an actor why not Los Angeles? A: At the time, it was too far for me to move away from my family. I am a momma's boy and that was too far of a place to be away from my mother. Cleavester: What is The Day I Stopped Being Pretty: A Memoir about? A: I wrote The Day I Stopped Being Pretty after a failed suicide attempt in 2005. I decided to revisit the paths that led me to wanting to kill myself; growing up black, loving as a gay male and living with HIV. Cleavester: Why are you the face of HIV/AIDS? A: I wouldn't say I corner the market on that phrase. I just happen to have had an opportunity to travel the country to speak and present openly and honestly what it is like to live with HIV. I have since taken a break in order to focus on me and living. Life is wonderful and my health is excellent. It was time to step away and allow me to focus on me.
Cleavester: When were you diagnosed with HIV? A: I was diagnosed in December 1993. Cleavester: So did you start taking care of yourself better and change your lifestyle? A: It took me a couple of years to wrap my thoughts and mind around living with HIV. I took some steps to take better care of myself and of course faltered. I am still a work in progress here. Cleavester: Had you been getting regular exams before you were diagnosed?
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A: Yes, I did the annual physical along with the annual antibody test. I allowed my heart to rule my head and didn't use a condom with my partner who failed to inform me of his status. A number of years after the fact, he finally called me one evening and apologized for infecting me. I accepted his apology, but I had to own up to my role in my infection as well. I knew better and knew the risks associated with unprotected sex, but like many others, I was in love. So I take responsibility for my actions. Cleavester: Why did you think you would die? A: Well I thought I would die, because I was told I was going to die. At the time of my diagnosis, there weren't too many drugs or treatment options available to persons living with HIV/AIDS. AZT was the only thing available for treatment at the time. So that coupled with an insincere voice from the CDC, I thought I would die by the time I was 30. I had just turned 25 at the time. Now, with God's blessing, I am 41. Cleavester: How do you live your life today? A: Well, I am contemplating getting back into the gym. I take one day at a time and thank God for allowing me another day in his creation. As much as I hate taking the medications, I know it, coupled with a positive outlook (no pun intended) keeps me here and loved by family and friends. Cleavester: Take us into the life of someone with the disease. Are some days harder than others? A: It's a bitch. I hate it. It's like there is a visitor in my body that refuses to leave. Although the visitor hasn't done anything to me as of yet, his presence is felt with the side effects of the medications, the quarterly doctors visits. I see him every quarter on a piece of paper after having lab work. That is the only time I see what he is doing. I hate this disease. I wouldn't wish it or the emotional or physical impact on my worse enemy. I have been blessed not to see it's impact at this point and I try in vain to fight it as much as I possibly can. Cleavester: What are you listening to now? A: Oh, there are so many. I have Whitney Houston's latest release in my car. I love Chrisette Michelle. I am also a big fan of the new Broadway recording of the musical revival of Hair (Sasha Allen is incredible). Ledisi gets me going. I also revisit the incredible Nancy Wilson and the late Dinah Washington. Lastly, I like some less than famous singers as Jaguar Wright, Nicole Henry (a jazz vocalist out of Florida), Adriana Evans and Lina. Cleavester: What is your guilty pleasure? A: My guilty pleasure is Butter Brickle ice cream and a beautiful kiss. Cleavester: Which actor would play you in a movie of your life? A: Wow, I never really thought about that. There are different stages of my life, where different actors would be appropriate. As a teenager/young man I would have to say Evan Ross. As an adult, maybe Terrance Howard. He has a very sensitive side that would convey the many sides of Rodney. Cleavester: Last book you read? A: The Genocide Files. Excellent book. I am currently reading Lamar Ariel's Ready to Male and The Fence by Dick Lehr. Cleavester: Celebrity you've been mistaken for? A: No one lol. Cleavester: Do you like them thick or thin? A: LOL, it honestly depends on the person and their heart.
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Cleavester: Describe a date with you? A: I am a hopeless romantic and I know some brothers aren't into the romance thing. But if I am planning the date, it would start with a nice candlelight dinner and a great bottle of wine. Music would figure prominently throughout the evening. The restaurant would have a nice jazz trio playing. After dinner, tickets to a nice jazz concert for lovers. We would walk the city together, talking and sharing stories of life, agreeing to disagree, sharing and learning from each other. As the evening winds down, we would return to my place, light some candles throughout the house and enjoy a slow dance to Nancy Wilson's "You Better Go." A gentle kiss and if we are both consenting adults, well that is for another time. As you can see, I like romance. Cleavester: Tell us about your family: Are they supportive of the choices you have made in your life? A: My family is great. Of course they had some concerns when I came out of the closet at such an early age. Their concerns were for my safety and well-being. And of course my mother was hurt by my decision to embrace my sexual orientation. But they have been the foundation from which I have been able to grow, live and love. My father on the other hand had a very difficult time in dealing with his youngest son being gay and HIV positive. That story is told in my first book The Day I Stopped Being Pretty. Cleavester: If you could see one change happen in the LGBT community in your lifetime, it would be and why? A: I would love to see the LGBT community come together as one. We have some many issues of ageism, racism and class issues within the LGBT community that it lessens our unity for unconditional equality. WE are the first to call someone a "queen" or "fag" to take the focus off of us, versus fighting for all. WE must decide what is truly important to us as a community and come together to achieve those rights that our heterosexual counterparts have. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? A: Welcome home my child. I know the road was hard and very difficult at times, but I was with you each step of the way. When you were hurt, I hurt. When you cried, I cried. When you laughed, I was there laughing with you. During those most difficult times on your journey, I was their to embrace you and show you how special and loved you were. Cleavester: Do you have any special message for our readers? A: I am paraphrasing an old saying, but live life to the fullest. Live life without regret. Love with all of your heart and allow yourself to be loved. Like Madea says, when you want to feel pretty just look at yourself and say, "Ting:)" Visit Rodney at www.rodneylofton.com
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(What’s The T? Cont’d on 5)
MICHELLE O. HEADED BACK TO 'SESAME STREET': First Lady to again plug healthy eating and gardening.
Katt Williams, Red Grant and Melanie Camacho. Luenell, currently co-starring in the Sandra Bullock film "All About Steve," reteams with Grant and Camacho for "More Hustlin'," which launches on Friday Oct. 2 at the Murat Theatre in Indianapolis. Targeted cities include, Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, DC, Miami, Nashville, Rancho Cordova and Sacramento. "I am excited to be hitting the road again with my comedic family, Red and Melanie," Luenell said in a statement. "It will be our pleasure to dip in to the cities across the country, meeting fans and spreading laughter. Remember, we toured with the best in the biz. So hold on people 'cause we’re not playin' this time either!"
The First Lady will help kick off the 40th year of "Sesame Street" with an appearance on the Nov. 10 season premiere, PBS announced Tuesday. Michelle Obama will bring with her a message touting the importance of planting gardens and healthy eating. She'll teach children how to plant tomato, cucumber and lettuce seeds as part of the show's new two-year science initiative called "My World is Green & Growing." "All these seeds need to grow are sun, soil and water. If you eat these healthy foods, you're going to grow up to be big and strong, like me," Obama tells the residents of Sesame Street. "I know you're going to like these vegetables, because in addition to being healthy, they really taste great!" In March, Mrs. Obama took on the unofficial role of Gardener-In-Chief by breaking ground on the first fruit and vegetable garden at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. since World War II. The 1,100 sq ft patch of land will grow some 50 fruits and vegetables to be used in the White House kitchen. The November visit will be Mrs. Obama's second trip to The Street. In May, she teamed with Elmo for a public service announcement about eating right, exercising regularly and being a healthy Real Or Rumor: Maurice Murrell and and positive role model for children as part of Ses- Bry’Nt ame Workshops Healthy Habits For Life initiative. Recently, I received this little note in my email box At the time, she said the experience was "probably Maurice Murrell and Bry'Nt seeing each other in a Intimate way. Here's an image that was sent to me of the best thing I've done at the White House." the two together. From my understanding this is a LUENELL READY FOR 'MORE image from the new movie Finding Me: The Sequel. HUSTLIN': Comic reteams with Red Maurice’s Character Jay gets a boyfriend in the secGrant and Melanie Camacho for new ond installment. The new movie should be out next May tour. Comedienne Luenell will hit the road in a new com- OMAR MILLER JOINS 'CSI: MIedy tour dubbed "More Hustlin'," a follow up to her AMI': Actor follows guest starring role previous stint on the Pimp Chronicles Tour with
with permanent gig.
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Actor Omar Miller is the newest cast member of Janet Jackson told celebrity diners, who paid anyCBS's drama "CSI: Miami," according to the Holly- where from $2,200 to $11,500 each for dinner tickets. "When this terrible pandemic began everyone ... wood Reporter. The 30-year-old will play Walter Simmons, a who was infected died of AIDS. Today with your Louisiana native and art theft specialist who trans- help millions of people are living with HIV." During the auction, Sudanese model Alex Wek fers over from the night helped stir interest in the Giuseppe Zanotti-designed shift to join Horatio’s boots that featured 3,000 multicolored Swarovski (David Caruso) team. His beads, which Jackson planned to wear on the openfirst episode will air on Oct. ing night of his comeback. 5. "Growing up in southern Sudan, I did not know Miller, most known for a lot of pop stars. But Michael did touch a lot of his roles in "Get Rich or Die people," she said in tribute to the singer, who died in Tryin'," "Miracle at St. June before his much-anticipated comeback could Anna" and the TV series begin. "Eleventh House," was A custom black leather jacket designed by the originally cast as a guest star on "CSI: Miami," with Canadian twin designers Dean and Dan Caten of the the network recently pick- DSquared2 label set off a bidding war between rapper West and Diesel designer Renzo Rosso. Rosso ing up his series regular prevailed with a bid of $52,740, the highest price option. paid for any of the auctioned items. Miller's film credits also include "Shall We Model Noemie Lenoir, who flew in from New Dance" and "8 Mile." York for the event, was supposed to auction off a chance to sail aboard the yacht "Born for Sports" as MICHAEL JACKSON BOOTS HELP it attempts to break the trans-Mediterranean record from Marseilles to Carthage in Tunisia. Instead, she FUND AIDS RESEARCH: Janet chairs celebrity amfAR auction as part improvised an auction of an evening out in her company. of Milan Fashion Week. "Come on, cheap people, more money," she A pair of bedazzled boots that Michael Jackson urged, as the bidding reached the winning level of planned to wear during his scheduled concerts in $16,115. London were auctioned off for $14,650 at a fundraiser for HIV/AIDS research chaired by his sister, KHLAMAR NOT LEGALLY MARRIED?: Union reportedly invalid until Janet Jackson. Organizers say the prenup is hashed out; Odom responds. event late Monday as part TMZ.com is reporting that the quickie marriage of of Milan Fashion Week Lamar Odom and Khloe Kardashian is not even raked in $1.1 million for valid, and won't be unless a prenuptial agreement is the American Foundation signed. for AIDS Research "We've learned two high-powered family law (amfAR), and drew such attorneys are already squaring off, trying to hash out star power as Donatella Versace, model Linda Evan- the prenup Odom wants as a condition to marriage," gelista and rapper Kanye West. TMZ reported Tuesday. According to the Associated Press, the event Neal Hersh is representing the Los Angeles Lakincluded a charity dinner in a central Milan palace ers star, while Lisa Meyer is repping Karand continued into the early hours of Tuesday with dashian. DJ Bob Sinclar serving his famous mixes on an up"We're told the negotiations -- which began last stairs dance floor. Friday -- are already contentious," stated TMZ. "Our "I'd just like to thank everyone here in the sources say the couple will tie the knot -- legally -global fashion community who've done so much to once the prenup is inked." help amfAR and to support HIV/AIDS research,"
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But Odom wants the world to know that his marriage to Khloe, who he had dated only a month before marrying her on Sunday, is "real" and "legal." He also addressed the situation with reporters at the Lakers pre-season training camp at their practice facility in El Segundo, CA. "It's crazy how perception works in America when you're looking at things from the outside. It might be off, it might be on. But anybody that was there will tell you that it was a beautiful event and it was real." And what about the rumors that he married the reality starlet in order to garner more publicity. "I don't need that. I get enough with the Lakers," he said. "I do well for myself." He also defended the couple's choice to marry so quickly. They may have only known each other for a month before they married, but he doesn't think that will Lamar & Khloe take thier first dance as husband and wife courtesy OK hurt them in the long run. Magazine. Issue with MORE photos on sale Thursday "There's people who've been married for 25 years LISARAYE'S REP DENIES SHARPand they get divorced," he TON HOOKUP: The two hung toexplained. "There's people who get married overnight gether over the weekend to promote a and the next thing you know they've been married new White House Education Tour. LisaRaye's publicist has denied rampant reports 25 years." across the black blogosphere that the actress is datYou can see the wedding on an episode of "Keeping Up With the Kardashians" on November 8 ing Rev. Al Sharpton. The rumors started flying after the two were photographed holding hands at varion E!. ous events over the past several days. Gossip site Media Take Out on Tuesday said they were spotted looking "cozy" at Roland Martin’s Congressional Black Caucus party in Washington D.C. They were also photographed walking through an airport and at Sharpton's Monday appearance on "WWE Raw." But the outings were strictly business, according to Jeter. The two are involved in the Obama administration's vision of educational innovation and are promoting a tour that will take them through various cites that serve as solid examples of school reform. "LisaRaye is involved in the White House Education Tour with Education Secretary Arne Duncan, former GOP House speaker Newt Gingrich and Rev. Al Sharpton because she has a foundation, Radiant Jewels, that gives scholarships to young girls," Jeter
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explained to EURweb exclusively. "So [the White House Education Tour] is a direct tie-in to what she's already been doing."
According to the Web site Rap-Up.com, Mashonda has been trying to reach out to the Grammy winning singer/songwriter ever since, but never received a response. So, the open letter was the only way she could communicate with the singer. It was sparked by a Twitter message Keys posted on Friday. She wrote: "Having a heated debate n the studio. Question is ... N love is it better to go 4 the choice that is 'SMART' or the choice that has 'SPARK'??" Here's the letter in its entirety, according to RapUp.com:
After having a great evening with my son and enjoying some fun twit chat, I decided to sign off and get some work done. However, a few hours later I was Al Sharpton & LisaRaye advised that I should check @aliciakeys twit page. The Education Tour kicked off yesterday (Sept. I've never reached out to her on twitter before. I feel 29) in Philadelphia, with stops booked in New Or- our issues are a lot more serious than a website conleans on Nov. 3 and Baltimore on Nov. 13. versation. Not to mention that I've reached out to And just to be clear, Jeter says that her client her many times in the beginning of this whole thing, and Rev. Al are not an item, Sharpton never coun- as any wife would do. Unfortunately, I never sucseled LisaRaye through her divorce with Michael ceeded in getting a response. Misick as previously reported, and he has never served as her spiritual advisor. The 1st time I meet AK, my husband introduced us to "Every time you see LisaRaye with some per- each other at an event. ( I have no choice but to call son, don't assume that she's dating them," Jeter said. him my husband, until he is not anymore) In the "There's a bigger picture to what she's doing." messages that I sent to her (AK), I made it very clear SWIZZ BEATZ'S WIFE CALLS OUT that on the contrary of what she might be hearing, I am still married to my husband, living with him and ALICIA KEYS: just had a child. Its been two years and I still have 'You know what you not received a response.
did,' writes Mashonda in an open letter to the alleged other woman.
What I do receive, is constant displays of selfishness and disconcern to me and my son. was a fan of AK's last album, we were both signed to J Records and I always checked up on her projects. I sang her songs Singer Mashonda, who and admired her for creating Superwoman and says she is technically still Karma, I would never deny her, her talent. I bemarried to rap producer lieved in her until I found out she was possibly Swizz Beatz, has written an sleeping with my husband. The affair was denied by open letter to Alicia Keys both, until it was finally admitted months later. regarding the alleged relationship she is having with her husband. Already I can hear some of you saying "why are u Rumors of the Keys/Beatz hookup began to cir- blaming her, You cant make someone leave their culate in early 2008, after Beatz and Mashonda were wife, You cant break something thats broken." Well, separated. my marriage was not broken, as far as I knew we were celebrating our sons birth and getting ready to
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celebrate our 5 year wedding anniversary . Call it blind love, whatever. I call it being a devoted wife.
afraid because he knows we don't have a relationship. This is my main concern. My son NEEDS his dad and I NEED to be comfortable with you. For him!
As far as me blaming her and not blaming him, thats false. Me and my husband I know many will see my point and many will not be have worked out our differ- able to look into what's real because they only want ences. We are in a good to see Alicia Keys the celebrity, not the human. This place as people and as par- is not for the "people", this is for you. Like I said I ents. I accept his choices was left no choice but to reach out to you this way. and I am comfortable By now, Im sure you want to find a balance in this enough with myself to move as well. I read your tweets tonight and I felt they on. I am so very blessed in were very insensitive. You have no idea how much many ways. My concern pain I was caused because of this affair. Its baffling with AK is no longer the to me that you don't understand what I might have fact that she assisted in de- gone through with this situation. I dont consider mystroying a family but that self a victim anymore, Ive learned alot from this! I she has the audacity to make these selfish comments just ask you to try and be a bit more realistic and about love and wanting to be with someone, even delicate to the situation, at least until my divorce is after knowing their situation. How is this the same final. Superwoman that I sang out loud with in my truck? I ask myself sometimes. I felt me attending the party would have been a starting point for us, since you shook my hand after I If you are reading this Alicia, let me start by saying, offered it, but I suppose I was wrong. If its so, that you know what you did. You know the role you you and my husband are meant to be together, then played and you know how you contributed to the God bless you both and I hope you never have to ending of my marriage. You know that I asked you to deal with what I did. I would not wish it on my worst step back and let me handle my family issues. Issues enemy. If you two being together forever is the case, that you helped to create. Im not saying everything its more of a reason for us to get along, because I'm was perfect all the time but no relationship is per- not going anywhere. Theres a child to be raised. fect. We made a vow to God and I believe you should have respected that, as a woman. I know you To answer your tweet, choose smart over spark. owe me or my son nothing but I just wish you Sparks burn everyone, be smart! Its simple actually, would've handled things more carefully. just think of the shoe being on the other foot. Stay blessed and lets work this thing out with respect and I'm not judging you, I put you and the whole situa- dignity. tion in the hands of God, the Higher Power. Just know that as a woman, I expected so much more ESSENCE ATKINS MARRIES HER from you. I never had intentions on reaching out to INTERNET BEAU: Couple jumped you this way but after reading your twits tonight, and the constant disregard, you left me no choice. I the broom Saturday in Pasadena. G. feel that after 1 and a half years of you hiding this Garvin provided the food. affair and acting like it doesnt exist, that now is the Actress Essence Atkins, best known for her role on time to confront it, since you talk so openly about it the UPN sitcom "Half and Half," has married her now boyfriend Jaime Mendez after meeting him less than two years ago through an online dating site. This is not a publicity stunt, I dont have a record According to People.com, the wedding took coming out. I just need to close this chapter in my place Saturday at the Ambassador Mansion and Garlife and that means confronting our issues. There is dens in Pasadena, Calif, The couple met on Valena small child involved. His dad loves him to death tine’s Day of last year through Match.com. and he wants to spend more time with him but hes
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"I wrote him a quick little note that I had read his Turner, Beyonce, Erykah Badu, Diddy, Salt & Pepa, profile, and then I signed off, Happy SAD Day – The Roots, the Notorious B.I.G., and India Arie. that's Single Awareness Viewers can also tune in to the original series Day," says Essence, 37. A "Leading Men" and "Leading Women," which intiweek later the couple went mately chronicle the dynamic lives of celebrities like on their first date, and they Boris Kodjoe, Hill Harper, Brian McKnight, Dr. were engaged a year later. Maya Angelou, Iman, and Patti Labelle. The bride wore a Centric will bring viewers the return of "The Soul Stephen Yearick gown for Train Awards," a two-hour telecast scheduled for the ceremony and an Angel Sunday, Nov. 29 at 9 p.m. from the Georgia World Rivera dress for the recep- Congress Center in Atlanta. tion, according to People. "I The following is Centric's programming for the rest felt like a princess," she of the week: says. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Her former costar Val- 10:00 P.M.* and 10:30 P.M.* on CENTRIC erie Pettiford performed original music at the recep- LEADING WOMEN: A half-hour original series tion. Plus, the bride surprised her husband with a that intimately chronicles the dynamic lives of cesalsa band to celebrate his Puerto Rican heritage. lebrity divas like Patti LaBelle, Iman, Naomi Camp"We've been taking salsa lessons. It's part of what bell and Chaka Khan. we’ve been doing together as a couple," she says. 11:00 P.M.* on CENTRIC TV One personality, chef G. Garvin, blended MOVIE: PREACHING TO THE CHOIR - A Puerto Rican and traditional soul food dishes, which movie drama about two twins, who grow up in Harincluded mac and cheese, roasted pork, peach cob- lem, N.Y. and take different paths when they reach bler and plantains. adulthood. One becomes a minister - while the other As party favors, guests received match books and becomes a gangster rapper. Starring: Tichina Artravel-sized candles. But singles guests were given nold, Billoah Greene, Darien Sills-Evans, Novella six-month memberships to Match.com. Nelson, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Janine Green, Patti LaBelle, and Eartha Kitt. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 CABLE NETWORK CENTRIC 10:30 P.M.* on CENTRIC MAKES ITS DEBUT: First weeks LEADING MEN: A half-hour original series that filled with music-themed programintimately chronicles the dynamic lives of celebrity ming; new Soul Train Awards to air in trailblazers like Common, Hill Harper, Brian McKnight and Boris Kodjoe. Nov. 11:00 P.M.* on CENTRIC Centric, the new 24-hour entertainment cable channel replacing BET J, debuted Monday at 6 a.m. DOCUMENTARY: NOTORIOUS B.I.G.: BIGGER THAN LIFE - The greatest rapper to ever with aims of entertaining the influential 25 to 54pick up a mic - with his velvety flow and unparalyear-old African American viewer. As previously reported, the network features the leled rhyme style he captivated everyone from Jay Z artists, music, series, movies and reality program- to Tupac. Now Notorious B.I.G. is revealed. Hear ming that reflects the lifestyle and sophistication of the stories from his closest friends and some of the today's African-American and multi-cultural adult. biggest names in Hip-Hop. See raw footage of B.I.G. free-styling on the streets of New York, rare Centric kicked off the week with a series of home video footage, a never-before-seen interview shows that commemorate the legacy of Michael with Biggie shortly before his death and undisclosed Jackson. The network will also air music-themed program- video footage from the night of his murder. Starring: Biggie, Common, Diddy, E-40, Sticky Fingaz, Jayming throughout the week, including memorable concert performances, movies, and originals touting Z, Method Man, Raekwon, and Voletta Wallace. iconic star power from notable figures such as Tina THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 2:00 P.M.* and 11:00 P.M.* on CENTRIC MOVIE: Seat Filler - A law student, making ends
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meet by filling empty seats at award shows, occupies the seat of a high-powered entertainment attorney when he meets his dream girl, a gorgeous superstar who is performing at the event. Starring: Kelly Rowland, Duane Martin, Shemar Moore, Patrick Fischler, and Romy Rosemont. 6:00 P.M.* - 7:30 P.M.* on CENTRIC SOUL STAGE - Soul-stirring music performances by neo-soul artists Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and India.Arie.
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DVD’S
Valentino: The Last Emperor Shown around the world to wide acclaim, Valentino: The Last Emperor is a feature film that has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences. It is a behind-the-scenes look at the world of fashion, featuring unprecedented access to the high temples of Haute Couture. The legendary Valentino is the star of the film, along with his longtime business partner and lover, Giancarlo Giammetti. Valentino: The Last Emperor follows them for the final two years of their careers, and shows the struggles the two men face as they confront the final act of a nearly 50-year career at the top of the world's most glamorous and competitive game. The struggle of art against commerce is at the center of the film. In the end, however, the story proves to be not one about money or expensive clothes, but about love. VALENTINO THE LAST EMPEROR is a feature-length film on the legendary designer Valentino Garavani in the wake of his exit in 2008 from the company he founded in Rome more than 45 years ago. Produced and directed by Matt Tyrnauer, Special Correspondent for Vanity Fair magazine, the film is an intimate, engaging and very funny fly-on-the-wall exploration of the singular world of one of Italy's richest and most famous men. The film documents the colorful and dramatic closing act of Valentino's celebrated career, tells the story of his extraordinary life and work, and also explores the larger themes affecting the fashion business today. But at the heart of the film is the unique relationship between Valentino and his business partner and lover of 50 years, Giancarlo Giammetti.
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Away We Go John Krasinski (The Office) and Maya Rudolph (Saturday Night Live) star in the heartfelt film that explores the comedic twists and turns in one couple's journey across contemporary America. Anticipating the birth of their first child, longtime couple Burt (Krasinski) and Verona (Rudolph) embark on an ambitious itinerary to visit friends and family in order to find their perfect home. Featuring a remarkable soundtrack and an incredible ensemble cast – including Jeff Daniels, Allison Janney, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Catherine O'Hara and Jim Gaffigan. It's the hilarious, witty film that critics are hailing as "absolutely extraordinary!" (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone)
Goodbye Solo From Ramin Bahrani, one of the most distinctive voices working in American independent cinema today, comes this absorbing, touching drama of a Senegalese immigrant's relationship with a man determined to kill himself.
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