Sunday, August 31, 2008

Obama Biden On 60 Minutes

Barack Obama's Labor Day Message


Barack expresses his support for America's labor movement.

AP Video: Gulf Coast Prepares As Gustav Slams Cuba


New Orleans residents have been ordered to evacuate Sunday as the threat from Hurricane Gustav continues to grow. The Category 4 hurricane slammed into Cuba Saturday before entering the Gulf of Mexico. (August 30)

AP Video: Gustav Scrubs Bush Appearance At GOP Convention


Hurricane Gustav has scrambled GOP convention plans, causing President Bush to drop a planned opening-night appearance. (Aug. 31)

AP Video: Obama on Gustav Preparedness


Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama urged Gulf Coast residents to take the evacuation ahead of Gustav 'seriously.' (Aug. 31)

A 60 Minutes Exclusive - Obama On Biden, Palin - Sunday, Aug. 31, at 7 p.m. ET/PT on CBS


Sen. Barack Obama tells Steve Kroft why he chose his running mate, and comments on Sen. McCain's vice presidential pick. A 60 Minutes exclusive, Sunday, Aug. 31, at 7 p.m. ET/PT.

TAVIS SMILEY | The Mo'Kelly Report | PBS


Blogger Mo'Kelly, founder of The Mo'Kelly Report, explains why he's not looking forward to blogging from the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis.

TAVIS SMILEY | Black Women in Europe | PBS


Stockholm-based blogger Adrianne George shares her experiences of bringing the Democratic Party nomination of Sen. Barack Obama to Blacks in Europe.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

TAVIS SMILEY | Jack & Jill Politics | PBS


Cheryl Contee (aka Jill Tubman) of Jack & Jill Politics explains how bloggers must get stories that go beyond mainstream TV coverage.

Esperanza Spalding Graces September 2008 Covers of Jazziz Magazine and Jazz Times Magazine




Good interviews and articles! Beautiful pictures too! ;) The Jazziz Magazine comes with a little CD that features new music from Ms. Spalding. I do believe we are going to be talking about Esperanza Spalding for years to come in the Jazz World. ;) Looking forward to seeing her live in concert soon!
~LT

Jazziz: www.jazziz.com
JazzTimes: jazztimes.com
Esperanza Spalding Official Site: esperanzaspalding.com

AP Video: Obama, Clinton Remember Rep. Tubbs Jones


Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton were among the speakers at a memorial service Saturday for the late Ohio Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones of the Cleveland area. (Aug. 30)

Memorial Service for Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D-OH) - C-SPAN Broadcast 11:00am ET


The Memorial Service for Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D-OH) will broadcast today live on C-SPAN from 11:00AM to 1:00PM ET.
~LT

CLEVELAND, Aug. 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Memorial Service Arrangements for Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones

Friday, August 29, 2008
Viewing
9:00AM - 8:00PM
Bethany Baptist Church
1211 East 105th Street
Cleveland, Ohio 44108

Saturday, August 30, 2008
Viewing
8:00AM - 10:30AM

Memorial Service
11:00AM - 1:00PM
Cleveland Public Auditorium
Cleveland Convention Center
Cleveland, OH 44114

**No Interment**
Note: Information regarding Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Omega Omega Services forthcoming.

The Family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to:

The Stephanie Tubbs Jones Scholarship Fund
c/o The Cleveland Foundation
1422 Euclid Avenue, Suite 1300
Cleveland, OH 44115
**Please make checks payable to: The Cleveland Foundation with a notation for the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Scholarship Fund

SOURCE The Office of Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones

Related links: Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones: tubbsjones.house.gov

Friday, August 29, 2008

GMA Exclusive: Michael Jackson Celebrates His 50th Birthday

Tavis Smiley's Video Blog - 8/29/08 | PBS


Tavis wraps up the Democratic National Convention and gets ready for Republican National Convention.

Obama Soundtrack


CNN
Obama soundtrack 2:10
The Obama playlist: CNN's Jeanne Moos on the soundtrack of a political event.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden Add Their Names to the Ballots

Barack Obama at the 2008 DNC


Barack Obama spoke to an audience of 84,000 at Mile High Stadium, on August 28, 2008 in Denver, CO.

Michelle Obama's Last Day of the DNC


Michelle Obama's update from last day of the 2008 DNC.

MSNBC Video: Gore Advocates For Change

MSNBC Video: Richardson: 'Obama Offers Protection For America'

MSNBC Video: Jackson: 'This Is A Celebration'

MSNBC Video: Kaine: 'We Are Making History'

TV One's show One on One: Hillary Clinton Pt 2


TV One's show One on One

TV One's show One on One: Hillary Clinton


TV One's show One on One

In Conversation: Michelle's Platform


TV One show In Conversation

In Conversation: Don't Run Barack


In Conversation with Michelle Obama

Thursday, August 28, 2008

MSNBC Video: King: 'One of Our Nation's Defining Moments'

MSNBC Video: Lewis: 'We Must March To The Ballot Box'

MSNBC Video: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Honored at the DNC

MSNBC Video: Dean: 'Power Grows From The Grass Roots Up'

MSNBC Video: Obama's Candidacy, 45 Years After 'The Dream'

MSNBC Video: Obama Fulfills King's Dream?

MSNBC Video: Barack Obama's Unlikely Journey

MCBC Video: John Legend: 'Inspired by Obama's Message'

Martin Luther King III: 'Roll Up Our Sleeves'


It has been 45 years since Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his 'I have a dream' speech. King's son reflects on the anniversary, which coincides with Barack Obama's acceptance of his party's nomination for president. (Aug. 28)

Crowds Arrive at Invesco for Obama Speech


Crowds are filing into Denver's Invesco Field where Barack Obama will officially accept the Democratic presidential nomination. More than 75,000 people are expected to fill the stadium. (Aug. 28)

Mile High Stadium: Getting Started


A behind-the-scenes look as things get underway for Barack's acceptance speech tonight.

Final Preparations Underway for Obama Speech


Final preparations are underway at Invesco Field, where Barack Obama will accept the Democratic presidential nomination in front of 75,000 people. (Aug. 28)

CBS Early Show: 'Barack: From Iowa To Denver'


From Iowa to Denver, Harry Smith takes a look at his interviews with Barack Obama along the 2008 presidential campaign trail.

Tavis Smiley | Biden's Speech Reaction | PBS


In a web exclusive video Tavis Smiley Young Voices blogger Tamika Thompson gets people's reactions to Biden's speech and Obama's suprise appearance at the DNC.

Al Roker Discovers His Roots

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

MSNBC: Obama Surprises Biden After Speech

MSNBC: Biden: "Together, We Get Back Up"

MSNBC: A Look at Joe Biden

MSNBC: Kerry: "The Stakes Could Not Be Higher"

MSNBC: Clinton: "I Want You To Support Barack Obama"

MSNBC: Carter: "Momentous Event For The Entire World"

MSNBC: Delegate: "I Feel Like It's Christmas!"

MSNBC: Hillary Clinton Announces Obama's Nomination at DNC

Dems Choose Obama in Thunderous Acclamation


Barack Obama, claiming a prize never held by a black American, swept the Democratic presidential nomination as former rival Hillary Clinton asked the convention delegates to make it unanimous "in the spirit of unity, with the goal of victory." (Aug. 27)

Clinton Releases Delegates


Hours before the DNC nominated Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton began an emotional gathering with her delegates Wednesday by telling them she was releasing them as delegates to vote for Obama. The AP's John Mone reports. (Aug. 27)

Joe Biden at the DNC


Joe Biden prepares to enters the national and world stage at the DNC in Denver.

Michelle Obama's Update from the DNC


Michelle Obama woke up early today for the Democratic National Convention's Delegate Service Day at Curtis Park in Denver.

NBC: Michelle Obama on the Bidens: "Our Families Clicked"

The New Obama Tee Shirt Spike Lee Was Wearing At The DNC Convention Seen on MSNBC Last Night - A Slam Dunk!




Here is the Tee Shirt that Spike Lee was wearing in that interview with MSNBC. He said he bought this in Denver and had to walk 5 miles to get it once he saw it. Now that Spike Lee has worn it and it has been seen on national TV, I think he is correct, they will be sporting this shirt not only in Brooklyn but all over America! Obama slam dunking on McCain! LOL!

Here are the facts behind the Tee Shirt from hypebeast.com:

"UNDRCRWN are the latest to pay homage as the basketball inspired label takes an unforgettable moment in basketball history and makes it distinctly Obama. Teaming up with Karmaloop and Denver retailer The 400, this t-shirt will be presented at this year’s Democratic National Convention in Denver. The inspiration if not immediately evident is based on Vince Carter’s spectacular Dunk over 7 foot something Frenchman Weiss back in 2000. The t-shirt’s sale will benefit local charities looking to improve inner city youth participation in sports."

AP Raw Video: Sen. Biden Prepares for DNC Speech


Less than 24 hours before he gives his acceptance speech, Senator Joe Biden took a tour of the Pepsi Center in Denver. Biden will headline the speeches on Wednesday. (August 27)

Clinton Rallies For Obama (Full Speech)


Sen. Hillary Clinton made it clear that her full support was behind Barack Obama's nomination and they should follow her lead.

Today Show: Riding the Rails with Biden

Barack Obama Nomination -- Can You Feel It?


TV One captures how Barack Obama's Democratic nomination for President is changing how America sees race. Can you feel it?

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

MSNBC: Brokaw: "She Had A Complex Assignment"

MSNBC Video: Olbermann: "Grand Slam"

MSNBC Video: Maddow: "She Nailed It"

MSNBC Video: Hillary Clinton: "No Way. No How. No McCain"

MSNBC Video: Tribute Video To Hillary Clinton

MSNBC Video: Governor Richardson on Clinton's Obama Support

MSNBC Video: Spike Lee: "I'm Here To Witness History"

Obama Inspires Black Youth


African-American children across the country are paying more attention to presidential politics. For the first time, they see a reflection of themselves in a candidate. Byron Pitts reports.

Raw Video: Clintons Tour Denver Stage


Sen. Hillary Clinton, accompanied by her daughter Chelsea, did a mid-day check Tuesday of the convention-hall podium. Clinton is expected to urge her disappointed supporters to line up in unity behind Barack Obama in a prime-time speech. (Aug. 26)

AP Video: Emotional Biden Addresses Home-State Delegates


Vice presidential candidate Joe Biden thanked Delaware delegates Tuesday for standing by their home-state senator and served up a mea culpa for his foibles and imperfections. (Aug. 26)

MSNBC Video: Wyclef Jean: "This Is A Moment of History"

"If You're Out There" - John Legend Rehearsal Footage


John Legend rehearses before his performance at the 2008 Democratic National Convention and discusses the inspiration for this new song.

Here is video of John Legend's rehearsal of the song he performed last night before Kennedy and Michelle spoke.
~LT

Barack Obama watches Michelle in Denver from Kansas City, MO


Barack Obama watches his wife Michelle give a speech at the Democratic National Convention.

Michelle Obama Montage Video Shown At The DNC


A short biography of Michelle Obama that introduces the Obama family to families across America. It played Monday night at the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

The Michelle Obama montage video that preceded Michelle Obama's introduction by her brother.
~LT

Michelle Obama at 2008 Democratic National Convention (Full Speech)


Michelle Obama spoke at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, CO, on August 25th, 2008. (Full speech)

Led Zeppelin Vinyl 'Making-of' mini documentary


Led Zeppelin official mini documentary on the making of the new 180 Gram vinyl boxsets for Mothership and The Song Remains the Same. LedZeppelin.com

Monday, August 25, 2008

MSNBC Michelle Obama Video: Olbermann: "Case I Think Closed"

MSNBC Michelle Obama Video: "Obama, Isn't That The Greatest American Story?"

MSNBC Kennedy Video: "This Is A Season For Hope"

MSNBC Video: A Tribute to Ted Kennedy

MSNBC Video: Carter On Clinton Supporters

Raw Video: Dean Opens Democratic Convention


Party chief Howard Dean gaveled into session the 2008 Democratic Convention that will nominate Barack Obama as the Democratic presidential candidate and Sen. Joe Biden as his running mate. (Aug. 25)

Program Reminder: Tonight & All This Week - 'TV ONE Live: The DNC After Party' - 11 PM ET on TV ONE


TV One DNC site: www.tvoneonline.com/dnc

This Week's Program Schedule for Coverage of the Democratic National Convention on BET and BET J


From BET:

The schedule for coverage of the Democratic National Convention on BET and BET J is as follows:

Monday, August 25
• 10 p.m. BET and BET J will air Michelle Obama's speech live. Following the speech, there will be a half-hour of analysis with BET News correspondents, political analysts and special guests from the Pepsi Center.

Tuesday, August 26
• 9 p.m. "WHAT'S AT STAKE: The Top 10 Issues Affecting Black America": Entertainers and political experts weighing in on these topics include Rev. Al Sharpton, Nas, Chuck D, David Banner, Crystal McCrary Anthony, John McWhorter, Boyce Watkins, Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, Keli Goff, Clay Cane, Rob Stapleton, Donnell Rawlings, Ardie Fuqua, Godfrey, Jina Johnson, Samson, Sharon Carpenter, Staceyann Chin and Keith Boykin.
• 10 p.m. BET will air Sen. Hillary Clinton's speech live. Following the speech, there will be a half-hour of analysis with BET News correspondents, political analysts and special guests from the Pepsi Center.

Wednesday, August 27
• 10 p.m. BET will air Vice Presidential candidate Sen. Joe Biden's speech live. Following the speech, there will be a half-hour of analysis with BET News correspondents, political analysts and special guests from the Pepsi Center.

Thursday, August 28
• 8:30 p.m. "THE DREAM: 45 YEARS LATER": This special will take an inside look at Martin Luther King Jr.'s historic speech of August 28, 1963 and "his" dream exactly 45 years later as it relates to the 2008's presidential race and this defining moment in history as Barack Obama accepts the Democratic Nomination for President of the United States of America.
• 9 p.m. "OBAMA'S JOURNEY TO THE WHITE HOUSE": This special, which first premiered after Obama became the presumptive nominee in June, counts down the top 10 moments of Obama's rise to the Democratic nomination for president.
• 9:30 p.m. "THE TRUTH WITH JEFF JOHNSON": BET's new weekly talk show will provide special coverage before and after Obama's speech. Johnson and a team of political strategists, special guests and BET News correspondents will provide context and analysis and the latest developments of the Democratic Convention.
• 10 p.m. DNC Nomination Speech: BET and BET J will air Barack Obama's nomination speech live from Invesco Field in its entirety.

Friday, August 29
• 11:00 p.m. "THE TRUTH WITH JEFF JOHNSON"
• 11:30 p.m. "LOCKED OUT: EX-CONS AND THE VOTE": This BET News special takes an in-depth look at voter disenfranchisement.

For more on BET Networks' presidential election coverage, please visit BET's Decision '08 site: www.bet.com/news/decision08.

MSNBC Video: Michelle Obama Prepares For Her Big Night

Michelle Obama Prepares For Her Convention Speech


Watch Michelle Obama discuss her speech at the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

AURN White House Correspondent & Washington Bureau Chief April Ryan "Live Blogging" From DNC All Week


AURN White House Correspondent & Washington Bureau Chief April Ryan is "live blogging" all week from The Democratic National Convention in Denver.

See April Ryan's video interviews, read her daily blog and check out her expert analysis at her official blog Fabric of America and share your comments, insights, opinions, thoughts, and questions!

Live Blogging, up-close, on the floor, and inside the halls of the Democratic National Convention in The Pepsi Center live, as events happen and unfold! That's what I'm talkin' bout! ;)
~LT

In Conversation with Michelle Obama

In Conversation with Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama says she knows Black women are watching her closely.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Olympic Minute: 2008 Beijing Closing Ceremonies

Michelle Obama & Family Arrive in Denver

24 Hours After Senator Obama Chooses Senator Biden As His Running Mate, Biden's Memoir Becomes Online Bestseller



Promises to Keep: On Life and Politics: www.randomhouse.com

Joe Biden Introduction


Joe Biden's message to the millions of supporters in the movement for change.

Esperanza Spalding Grooves


At just 23 years old, Portland, Ore. native Esperanza Spalding is a jazz bassist and vocalist who is getting set to release her second album. The soulful singer stops by "The Second Cup Café....

Very nice!
~LT

The Black List Volume One - HBO Documentary Films - Monday, August 25th, 2008 @ 9PM HBO

A Documentary Film By Timothy Greenfield-Sanders & Elvis Mitchell
The Black List Volume One


Monday, August 25th, 2008 @ 9PM HBO
The HBO Documentary Films Series Finale
Who's On Your Black List: www.whosonyourblacklist.com
Timothy Greenfield-Sanders: www.greenfield-sanders.com

Cable TV Vibes: 'Playing to Win: Inside the Videogame Industry' 9PM ET/CNBC



CNBC: www.cnbc.com

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Obama Biden First Edition 5" Car Magnets


donate.barackobama.com

Joe Biden in Springfield, IL (Full Speech)


Joe Biden's first appearance as Barack Obama's running mate in Springfield, Illinois

Supporters React to Obama and Biden in Springfield


In Springfield, Illinois, supporters share their thoughts on Obama and Biden's first joint appearance.

Barack Obama in Springfield, IL (Full Speech)


Barack Obama announced his vice presidential running mate, Joe Biden, in Springfield, IL on August 23, 2008.

Raw Video: Obama and Biden Together


Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama introduced his vice presidential pick, Sen. Joe Biden, at a rally Saturday in Illinois. (Aug. 23)

Obama Taps Biden to Be Running Mate - AP Story


Associated Press: The Web site has been updated and the text messages have gone out. Delaware Senator Joe Biden is Barack Obama's choice as running mate.

New Movie Vibes: 'One Bad Cat: The Reverend Albert Wagner Story'



Official site: www.onebadcat.net

Usain Bolt Won't Let Success Change Him

How Would Usain Bolt Fare In The NFL?






New Movie Vibes: The Express The Ernie Davis Story



The Express Movie www.theexpressmovie.com
In theaters October 10th, 2008

Friday, August 22, 2008

Art Fennell Reports - Georgia vs Russia - An Update with AURN White House Correspondent April Ryan


Art Fennell Reports - Georgia vs Russia - An Update with AURN White House Correspondent & Washington Bureau Chief April Ryan

Tavis Smiley's Video Blog - 8/22/08 | PBS - "Thoughts on the upcoming Democratic National Convention"


Tavis discusses his plans to cover the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Denver.

A great entry from Tavis this week. A good and timely recap and update for where we are right now and all that is going on with the race. Also, an excellent and very on point question posed at the end. Think about it!
~LT

Obama's V.P. Selection - CBS Evening News

Convention Preparations - CBS Evening News


Maggie Rodriguez chats with Chief Washington correspondent Bob Schieffer about what to expect from the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colo.

Obama Seeks Strong V.P. - CBS Early Show


"Exclusive": Sen. Barack Obama responds to criticism and talks to Harry Smith about his choice for vice president.

Playwright Daniel Beaty's 'Resurrection' at Arena Stage, August 29th - October 5th, 2008


In today's Washington Post, Weekend Section, On Stage:
~LT

Resurrection
Arena Stage
Crystal City
1800 S. Bell St.,
Arlington
202-488-3300
www.arenastage.org
Aug. 29-Oct. 5

Struggle, Hope -- in Short, Reality
Playwright's 'Resurrection' Offers a Window Into the Lives of a Spectrum of Black Men
By Ellen McCarthy
Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, August 22, 2008; Page WE17

Thirteen months ago, Daniel Beaty was in Washington, performing his one-man play, "Emergency," when he picked up a book that set the course for his next theatrical adventure.

It was called "State of Black America 2007: Portrait of the Black Male," published by the National Urban League.

"I've always been interested in questions of fathers and sons, especially in America," Beaty says. "And I knew, because of the urgency of the situation, that that was what I wanted to write about next."

The 32-year-old's first draft came quickly and grew into "Resurrection," an ensemble production that will have its world premiere next week, opening the fall season at Arena Stage.

Full article: www.washingtonpost.com
Daniel Beaty: www.danielbeaty.com

Venus and Serena Win Gold - CBS Early Show


Tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams took home gold medals in women's double for the second time. They talk with Harry Smith about their extraordinary experience in Beijing.

Books Mentioned By Bernie McCain "The Godfather of Talk Radio" This Week on WOL 1450 AM "Where Information Is Power"


There were several books mentioned by Bernie McCain, "The Godfather of Talk Radio" this week that I must and will check out and read. I can hardly wait to pick these up and add them to my collection.

I read The Learning Tree by Gordon Parks many years ago and have seen the movie many times but I never heard of Gordon Park's book that Bernie mentioned below. Very interesting. Also, I was familiar with Julius Lester writing children's books but I had not heard of Revolutionary Notes since 2006 when his name came up in a conversation before. I was also not familiar with so many of his other books Uncle Bernie mentioned. I've got some catching up to do! I'm about 10 to 15 books behind where I should be right now in general. ;)

Some of these books are available at amazon and some may only be available at used bookstores and libraries now.

Bernie McCain's show "The Dean's Talkroom" can be heard Monday - Friday: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM and Monday - Friday:10:00 PM - 1:00 AM on www.wolam.com.
~LT

The books Uncle Bernie mentioned are:


Worse than Slavery: Parchman Farm and the Ordeal of Jim Crow Justice (Paperback)
www.amazon.com


Rising from the Rails: Pullman Porters and the Making of the Black Middle Class (Paperback)
www.amazon.com


All Things Censored By Mumia Abu-Jamal with Foreword by Alice Walker
www.amazon.com


A Choice of Weapons (Borealis Books) (Paperback)
by Gordon Parks (Author)
www.amazon.com



A Time of Terror: A Survivor's Story by James Cameron
www.amazon.com

Founder of The Black Holocaust Museum Dr. James Cameronwww.blackholocaustmuseum.org


Revolutionary Notes By Julius Lester
www.amazon.com
Julius Lester Official Site: juliuslester


When The Beginning Began By Julius Lester
www.amazon.com
Uncle Bernie mentioned this book is a must by if you have children.


Playing The Changes By Milt Hinton
www.amazon.com

The Million DJ March August 29-30, 2008 Washington DC



More info at: themilliondjmarch.blogspot.com
~LT

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Obama Fires On McCain Houses


John McCain stumbled over his answer on how many houses he owned. He reportedly owns seven and the Obama camp used his lack of response to say he's "out of touch." Dean Reynolds reports.

CBS Sports - Olympics Now 08-21-08

AURN White House Correspondent & Washington Bureau Chief April Ryan's Post on Hurricane Katrina - 2005 to 2008 - A View From The Bridge



A great post today on April Ryan's blog. Once again, April Ryan stays on point!

August 29th, 2008 marks the 3rd Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the costliest and one of the five deadliest hurricanes in the history of the United States.

Today on her blog, 'Fabric of America,' American Urban Radio Network White House Correspondent & Washington Bureau Chief April Ryan posts on the upcoming 3 Year Anniversary, President Bush's recent trip this week to visit the Gulf Coast, and poses some very timely questions on what do we think of the progress (or lack thereof) of The Gulf Coast since the Hurricane Katrina disaster in 2005.

A very timely reminder of what has been done, what has not been done and why not, and where do we go from here. A view from the bridge 3 years later. As the old saying goes, "Hindsight is 20/20."

Also, Ms. Ryan has posted the original transcript of her Interview of First Lady Laura Bush Aboard Mrs. Bush’s Plane from September 8th, 2005.

Check it out on April Ryan's Fabric of America Blog aprilryan.com and share your comments, insights, opinions, thoughts, and questions.

~LT

New Book: 'Ben's Chili Bowl: 50 Years of a Washington, D.C. Landmark'



Nice! A must buy! Heard about this on WOL 1450 AM this morning during the special remote broadcast at Ben's. Great stories shared by The Ali Family, Walter Edward Fauntroy, Dick Gregory and many others.
~LT

Arcadia Publishing: www.arcadiapublishing.com
Amazon: www.amazon.com

More from Ben's website:
"‘Ben’s Chili Bowl: 50 Years of a Washington, D.C. Landmark’ is currently on pre-sale at Amazon.com, Barnesadnoble.com and Borders.com. The official release date is Aug. 18th at which time the book will be available where ever books are sold and of course here at Ben’s. Buy it at Ben’s or bring in your copy to have it signed by a member of the Ali family or your favorite Ben’s staffer."

LT's Jazzy Radio Loft & Lounge Wishing Ben's Chili Bowl A Happy 50th Anniversary!



Congratulations Ben's Chili Bowl On Your 50th Anniversary!

Here is a link to my original post on my memories of Ben's Chili Bowl while growing up in DC: Ben's Chili Bowl - A Washington, DC Landmark

Ben's Chili Bowl is a landmark restaurant in Washington, D.C., located at 1213 U Street, next to Lincoln Theatre, in the Shaw neighborhood of northwest D.C, along the U Street Corridor. Ben's opened on Aug. 22, 1958 at the height of "Black Broadway" on U Street.

There will be a gala tonight at the historic Lincoln Theatre followed by a series of weekend events. Here are the details:

The Gala
August 21, 2008, 8:00PM
Ben’s Chili Bowl Turns 50!
Ben's 50th Anniversary Gala Celebration
“Sharing Memories of the Past 50 Years”

Special Guest: Master of Ceremonies: Bill Cosby
Special Guests: Roberta Flack,Dick Gregory.
Block Party Friday, August, 22nd 2008!

"Join us for a night filled with live music and entertainment as we look back over the 50-year history of Ben’s Chili Bowl, U Street, the Ali family, and the patrons who have helped define Ben’s as a vibrant cultural landmark!"

The Press Conference & Street Festival
Friday, Aug. 22 - 10:30am to 2pm - U St. in front of Ben's
"Press conference at 10:30am followed by a "we love you back" street festival with games and activities for the kids, festival snacks, live radio and television broadcasts, and special guests!"

The Concert
Sunday, Aug. 24th from 2-10pm at the 9:30 Club
Featuring:
EU featuring Sugar Bear
Trouble Funk
Wes Felton and Friends
Mambo Sauce
Lady Pcoq & Poem-Cees
V. Rich
Pancake Mountain
(at 2pm)

Please visit www.benschilibowl.com & www.thelincolntheatre.org for more details.

Ben's Chili Bowl Celebrates 50th Anniversary - VOA Video


I took a picture of this framed picture of Bill Cosby at the new, second location of Ben's Chili Bowl in The Washington Nationals Park. It is truly the most popular restaurant in the stadium!


Former moderator of NBC's Meet The Press, Tim Russert surprises Bill Cosby with his favorite must have food whenever he visits D.C. - Ben's Chili Bowl Chili Halfsmokes! October 14th, 2007 pics.






From today's Washington Post:
~LT

Ben's Celebrates Chili Power
Big Stars and Just Plain Folks Mark Eatery's 50-Year Run on U Street
By Keith L. Alexander
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, August 21, 2008; Page B01

www.washingtonpost.com

Julius Carry, Sho'Nuff in The Last Dragon Dead at 56




My little brother informed me that actor Julius Carry who played Sho'Nuff in The Last Dragon passed away this week. Last Dragon was one of the best Kung Fu movies of all time in my opinion and especially of the 80s. Here is an article from a site called groundreport.com followed by some clips of Julius Carry as Sho'Nuff in The Last Dragon (1984).:

"Julius Carry, an actor best known for his role as the villain Sho'Nuff in Berry Gordy's black martial arts comedy The Last Dragon, passed away from unknown causes this week.

"Sho'Nuff, the Shogun of Harlem, provided the cult hit movie with its largest laughs and was played brilliantly by Julius Carry. Some of Carry's other acting credentials include appearances on the television programs Murphy Brown and Boy Meets World.

"In The Last Dragon, the main character is a young black man, known as "Bruce Leroy" searching for a karate master. To complete his training, he must pass by Julius Carry's evil Sho'Nuff character and rescue a beautiful singer from a controlling music producer."

Sending out condolences to the family and friends of Julius Carry. A very talented actor.
Peace and Blessings.
~LT







Gene Upshaw, Oakland Raiders Lineman #63, Pro Football Hall of Famer, Head of Players Union Dies of Cancer at 63



Gene Upshaw, Head of Football Players' Union, Dies (Update1)
By Laurence Arnold and Aaron Kuriloff

Aug. 21 (Bloomberg) -- Gene Upshaw, a one-time Oakland Raiders lineman who earned a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his playing career and in the sport's history as head of the players' union, died today. He was 63.

The cause was pancreatic cancer, according to the union, which said he only learned of the diagnosis on Sunday. He hadn't publicly revealed that he was ill.

``We are deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden and unexpected death of our leader,'' the union said in a statement.

Full Bloomeberg Article: www.bloomberg.com
Gene Upshaw Oakland Raiders: www.raidersonline.org

Sending out my condolences to the family and friends of Gene Upshaw.
Peace and Blessings.
~LT






Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones of Ohio Dies After Hemorrhage



Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones: tubbsjones.house.gov

I heard this sad news yesterday afternoon. Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones was the first African American woman to be elected to Congress from Ohio. Sending condolences, thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D-IL).
Peace and Blessings.
~LT

From AP:

US Rep. Tubbs Jones of Ohio dies after hemorrhage
By M.R. KROPKO – 7 hours ago

EAST CLEVELAND, Ohio (AP) — Democratic U.S. Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones, the first black woman to represent Ohio in Congress and a strong critic of the Iraq war, died Wednesday after a brain hemorrhage, a hospital spokeswoman said.

Tubbs Jones, 58, died Wednesday evening of a brain hemorrhage caused by an aneurysm that burst and left her with limited brain function, said Eileen Sheil, a spokeswoman for the Cleveland Clinic, which owns the Huron Hospital in East Cleveland where Tubbs Jones died.

"Throughout the course of the day and into this evening, Congresswoman Tubbs Jones' medical condition declined," Sheil said in a statement from the clinic and Tubbs Jones' family.

The liberal Democrat, first elected in 1998, suffered the hemorrhage while driving her car in Cleveland Heights Tuesday night, said Dr. Gus Kious, president of Huron Hospital. The car went out of control and crossed lanes of traffic before coming to a stop, police said. An officer found the ailing lawmaker.

A brain aneurysm is a bulge in an artery in the brain. It can leak or rupture, causing bleeding in the brain.

Several news organizations, including The Associated Press, had reported earlier in the day that Tubbs Jones had died. That report, citing a Democratic official, was corrected a few minutes later when a hospital official held a news conference to say she was in critical condition.

Tubbs Jones represented the heavily Democratic 11th District and chaired the ethics committee in the House. She was the first black woman to serve on the powerful Ways and Means Committee, where she opposed President Bush's tax cuts and his efforts to create personal accounts within Social Security.

"After making history as the first African-American woman elected to Congress from Ohio, the congresswoman worked to expand the rights of all Americans," President Bush said in tribute. "Our nation is grateful for her service."

Tubbs Jones was a firm supporter of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton during the primaries until throwing her support behind Sen. Barack Obama in June. She was to have been a superdelegate at next week's Democratic National Convention in Denver.

The Clinton family released a statement saying they shared a friendship with Tubbs Jones that "deepened through every trial and challenge."

"Over the course of many years, with many ups and many downs, Stephanie was right by our side — unwavering, indefatigable," the statement said. "It was that fighting spirit ... that allowed Stephanie to rise from modest beginnings, to succeed in public service, to become a one-woman force for progress in our country."

Obama called Tubbs Jones "an extraordinary American and an outstanding public servant."

"It wasn't enough for her just to break barriers in her own life. She was also determined to bring opportunity to all those who had been overlooked and left behind — and in Stephanie, they had a fearless friend and unyielding advocate," Obama said in a statement.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, who also represents Cleveland, was visibly upset Wednesday night when he left Huron Hospital. He held the hand of his wife, Elizabeth, as he recalled Tubbs Jones' energy and spirit.

"She poured her heart and soul into her job," Kucinich said. "She worked so hard and gave everything she could. I'm devastated. Wherever we'd go, we'd speak of each other as brother and sister. It's an incalculable loss."

Tubbs Jones was a passionate opponent of the Iraq war, voting in 2002 against authorizing the use of military force.

Just as the war was starting in March 2003, she was one of only 11 House members to oppose a resolution supporting U.S. troops in Iraq. She said she did so because the resolution connected Iraq to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and said Iraq poses a continued threat to the United States.

Neither of those claims had been proved, she said, adding that was why the United States couldn't persuade the United Nations to support an attack.

In 2005, Tubbs Jones opposed certifying President Bush's re-election because of questionable electoral results in her home state.

Tubbs Jones was known as an outspoken, gregarious lawmaker who wore bright colors and displayed her congressional pin on a gold necklace.

She was a fiery speaker who could inspire crowds at political rallies, as she did while introducing former President Clinton when he campaigned for his wife in January in suburban Cleveland.

Tubbs Jones had served as a Cuyahoga County Common Pleas judge and prosecutor before running for political office.

Addressing the Democratic National Convention in 2004, Tubbs Jones recalled her parents, who "punched a clock day in and day out — one as a skycap, the other as a factory worker," until the day they saw their daughter representing their hometown as a congresswoman.

Associated Press writer Andrew Taylor in Washington contributed to this report.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Radio Hosts Join CC's "Build The Dream" Radiothon


From Radio Online:
~LT

Radio Hosts Join CC's "Build The Dream" Radiothon

To help celebrate the 45th anniversary of the March on Washington, DC, and the "I Have a Dream" speech, Clear Channel Radio and the Washington DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation announced the additions of syndicated radio personalities Steve Harvey, Doug Banks, Tom Joyner and Michael Baisden to an all-star ensemble of celebrities for the Clear Channel "Build the Dream" Radiothon on Thursday, August 28.

The celebrity participants will be featured on select Clear Channel Radio outlets sharing their thoughts about the importance of Dr. King and the significance of building a national Memorial to honor his ideals of democracy, justice, hope and love.

"We are honored to have such a renowned group of personalities join forces in our campaign to honor Dr. King," said Senior VP/Urban Programming Doc Wynter. "The support of these additional celebrities in conjunction with 36 Clear Channel stations nationwide takes us one step closer to reaching the Memorial Foundation's fundraising goals."

Listeners will be directed to the Memorial Foundation at mlkradiothon.org and to an 800 number to make a donation and learn more. All funds raised from the campaign will go towards the Memorial, which will be erected on the National Mall in Washington, DC. (08-19-08)

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Good Morning America Story: Reggie Love Is Barack Obama's Gatekeeper, Friend


(EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)

Saw this on GMA this morning. Reggie Love is Barack Obama's Right Hand Man.
~LT

Reggie Love Is Barack Obama's Gatekeeper, Friend
Love Went From Duke Athletics to Obama's Personal Assistant
By NICK WATT and LEE FERRAN
Aug. 19, 2008

Every president, and every presidential candidate, has one -- a "body man," or personal assistant.

Presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., right, hands over a statue offered by a supporter to his assistant Reggie Love during a town hall meeting with veterans at the American GI Forum in San Antonio, Texas, on March 3, 2008.

And Barack Obama? Well, he has Reggie Love, a former Duke University varsity basketball and football player. Though the two have become very close since Love took on the role of body man in January, to Love, defining exactly what he does can be difficult.

"It definitely makes for interesting conversations when you meet someone and they're like, 'What do you do?' I'm like, 'Well, I travel around with this guy all day. He's running for president,'" Love told "Good Morning America."

It is perhaps easier to define Love's job by what he carries with him when he travels with the Democratic presidential hopeful. In his bag is an array of small, everyday items, such as a toothbrush, mouthwash, cough drops, aspirin and wet naps.

Full story at: abcnews.go.com/GMA

Hollywood Joins Memphis for a Farewell to Isaac Hayes


(Matthew Craig/Commercial Appeal, via Associated Press)
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis paid tribute to Isaac Hayes. A funeral was held on Monday in nearby Cordova.

By SHAILA DEWAN
Published: August 18, 2008

CORDOVA, Tenn. — It was easy to tell the Hollywood Scientologists from the Memphis music people as they passed the gantlet of television cameras and entered the suburban Memphis megachurch to pay tribute to Isaac Hayes. They were on the whole paler and skinnier and showed rather more cleavage than is considered properly funereal here in the South.

The Memphians, on the other hand, tended toward vintage dresses and dark three-piece suits with expertly origamied handkerchiefs and matching ties.

Then there was the soul royalty, like Bootsy Collins, who wore a get-up involving wide pinstripes, a kerchief, and rhinestone-coated sunglass lenses with peepholes in the shape of stars, and the actual royalty, like Princess Naa Asie Ocansey of Ghana, who wore gold and red African finery and managed to get surprisingly low to the ground when she danced.

But there were also thousands of regular people, wearing regular clothes, who poured into the sanctuary of the Hope Presbyterian Church.

Full article from The New York Times: www.nytimes.com

Monday, August 18, 2008

P. Miller Launches Better Black Television, Will Smith & Denzel Washington On Board


Interesting! Go head, Master P!
~LT

P. Miller Launches Better Black Television, Will Smith & Denzel Washington On Board
August 18, 2008

By Erin T. McMillon

NEW YORK (RUSHPRNEWS)AUGUST 18, 2008–P. Miller, formerly Master P, is setting out to change more than just his name these days. The self-made N.O. native has just announced his plans to launch a new TV channel called Better Black Television (BBTV).

P says he hopes to change the way messages are relayed to (and about) the black community by offering a variety of positive shows ranging from dramas, comedies, movies, animation, music, politics, and sports.

But P is not traveling this road by himself. Members of BBTV’s advisory board include Kool Herc, Will Smith, and Denzel Washington.

“I’ve done a lot to promote and change the way messages are relayed to our children and our families over the last few years,” P said in a statement. “Promoting positive content and positive messages is so important to educate and preserve the next generation.”

“Being exposed to positive content is what changed my life,” P continued. “I believe that there is a market in our community for a new diverse network that provides a new brand of superior programming that caters to all aspects of television from reality to original programming.”

According to reports, BBTV will be launched in 2009.

NEWS SOURCE: YO!RAPS MAGAZINE

Bernie Mac Funeral, Photos


(Celebrities stand in the aisles before the start of Bernie Mac's memorial service at House of Hope in Chicago on Saturday, August 16, 2008. (Tribune photo by Stacey Wescott / August 16, 2008)

From The Chicago Tribune.
~LT

Bernie Mac funeral, photos
By Kelley L. Carter | Tribune staff reporter
August 17, 2008

There they stood, three buddies at the center of the elevated pulpit, all wiping away tears and preparing to speak at the memorial service for their friend, their colleague and, in some cases, their mentor.

They appeared uncomfortable, and it took a few minutes before someone began. But as they cleared their throats, a round of applause arose from the church. It was obvious that the thousands in attendance were ready to laugh, and celebrate the life of Bernie Mac.

Cedric the Entertainer, the first to speak, surveyed the audience and delivered a line that seemed to best sum up the service.

Full article and photos: www.chicagotribune.com

Saddleback Civil Forum on the Presidency - Lake Forest, CA - Themes of Faith Discussed

Obama, McCain Woo Evangelicals - CBS News

Barack Obama and John McCain appeared together for the first time during this campaign at an evangelical mega-church. They were interviewed separately about hot button issues. Ben Tracy reports.

Saddleback Civil Forum on the Presidency - Lake Forest, CA

Barack Obama met with Rick Warren at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA on Saturday August 16, 2008.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

A Spike Lee Joint: Miracle At St. Anna - In Theaters September 26th, 2008 - Official Poster & Trailer



>

Wash Post Article: 'Courage In Full Color: Black Soldiers Get an Overdue Starring Role in the Cinematic Story of World War II'


In today's Wash Post.
~LT

Courage in Full Color
Black Soldiers Get an Overdue Starring Role in the Cinematic Story of World War II

By Wil Haygood
Sunday, August 17, 2008; Page M01

Inside the brick home on the corner sits a brave man. He once stalked Nazis across Italian hillsides, crunching through foot-high snow.

After his wife died, Joseph Stephenson moved in with his daughter here in Cheverly. He's in the living room, his tall body covering the navy blue recliner. Sunlight bounces off the hardwood floors. Three of his grandchildren are in another room, and their voices swoop around and over him like birds.

"Say what?"

The grandchildren have just called out to him about bolting for the local swimming pool.

"Okay, be careful," he yells out.

The old soldier is talking about the Germans and the bullets that came ricocheting down from the hills during the savage winter of 1944.

"The Italians were glad to see us," he says. "They were glad to see anybody pushing at the Germans."

Stephenson, 89, was a member of the highly praised, all-black 92nd Infantry Division. He was wounded that winter by a trip mine, and the explosion ripped into his thigh. He managed to come home, though, on his own two feet and carrying a Bronze Star. "For valor," he explains.

There followed years of raising his two kids and teaching high school. The old soldier attended many 92nd reunions -- black men striding through airports with canes and 92nd insignia. Cats talking about basic training and listening to Duke Ellington and Hoagy Carmichael because Duke and Hoagy had been thumping during their war.

Full article link: www.washingtonpost.com

Official site:miracleatstanna.movies.go.com

Saturday, August 16, 2008

My Review of 'Star Wars: Clone Wars' - That Good Ole' Star Wars Feeling Has Returned! Thank God!



The Clone Wars: Anakin's Padawan Ahsoka Tano


Comic-Con Vibes: 'Star Wars: Clone Wars: Battle of Christophsis'


The Clone Wars: The Clones Are Coming


The official Warner Bros Synopsis for Star Wars: Clone Wars is the following:

"As the Clone Wars sweep through the galaxy, the heroic Jedi Knights struggle to maintain order and restore peace. More and more systems are falling prey to the forces of the dark side as the Galactic Republic slips further and further under the sway of the Separatists and their never-ending droid army. Anakin Skywalker and his Padawan learner Ahsoka Tano find themselves on a mission with far-reaching consequences, one that brings them face-to-face with crime lord Jabba the Hutt. But Count Dooku and his sinister agents, including the nefarious Asajj Ventress, will stop at nothing to ensure that Anakin and Ahsoka fail at their quest. Meanwhile, on the front lines of the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Master Yoda lead the massive clone army in a valiant effort to resist the forces of the dark side" ... Written by Warner Bros. Pictures

I saw Clone Wars this weekend. Overall, I found this movie to be very entertaining, fun, funny, warm and fuzzy. Warm and fuzzy in a Star Wars kind of way. Also, fascinating and awesome in it's scope, action and adventure in that unique Star Wars style so many of us love. They were successful in recapturing that good ole' Star Wars feeling. That original Star Wars feeling that made us all fall in love with the movies from 1977 to 1983.

The style and type of computer animation LucasFilm used for this movie was different then what I expected it to be (although they gave us a heads-up with the trailers and posters) but it was still well done for the most part I thought. I kind of looked at the animation style as in comparison to over the years, when George Lucas has commissioned different artists to draw the comics using their own unique talents and styles. The animation in this movie at times looked like computer wooden block puppetry but it was still very interesting to watch and see all the details.

The voice acting was very well done. The story was well written as well.

This movie is filled with very subtle Star Wars "Ah-Ha!" moments that will make Star Wars Fans over 35 think about all 6 movies and experience what I call "Star Wars Echo Reminders" that George Lucas has been a pure genius at showing in all the movies, but especially this one. I actually took great joy in seeing how they weaved this together with all 6 movies but you have to keep your eyes and ears open to see and hear them all in this one. This is one of the movie's strongest points in my opinion. It really made me think of all 6 movies in a different way and more of what's to come.

They also were successful in showing the relationships with the different characters especially Anakin and his new apprentice, Padawan Ahsoka Tano and also the chemistry between Anakin and Obi Wan. Obi Wan's character was done very well.

George Lucas seemed to keep the kids in mind throughout this movie while successfully keeping the old school die hard Star Wars fans in mind. It was a great balance.

I would say this movie had the fun heart and soul that the 3 prequels seemed to miss. (Although Episode 3 seemed to be an effort at regaining some of that original Star Wars chemistry we all love).

Keeping in mind that this was the film that was originally set to debut on TV to kick off the new animated show on TV, it was a treat to even see this on the big screen and I'm glad George Lucas decided to let it be released first on the silver screen.

I think it also restored Star Wars Fans hopes that yes, George Lucas heard our online messaging, conversations and posts that we would like our original Star Wars back in its feel. It's funny to me that it took a computer animation version of Star Wars to help accomplish this.

Oh, one more thing. This movie is being distributed by Warner Brothers so that original 20th Century FOX opening we have all grown so accustomed to is not there to kick it off. Just giving ole Star Wars die hards a heads-up! ;)

The Star Wars franchise continues to be golden in my view but I think George Lucas needed to do something to show all the die hard Star Wars fans from back in the day that he hasn't forgotten about us or what really is the heart and soul of Star Wars. This movie gives me hope that Star Wars has gotten back on track for the present and future. He heard the fans. I'm looking forward to Star Wars done in various other styles and forms of animation and I am looking forward to the new TV shows as well! I left the theatre feeling that that good ole Star Wars feeling is back and feeling hungry for more of it!

"May The Force Be With You All!"
Peace!
~LT