SPECIAL NOTE: NO OBAMA/BIDEN T-SHIRTS @ THE POLLS ON ELECTION DAY NOV. 4TH, 2008 - YOU WILL BE TURNED AWAY IF YOU DO!

Yes, I heard about the emails from everyone. Thank you all!

There's been some degree of confusion about the OBAMA/BIDEN TEE SHIRT ISSUE.

"Can we wear them? Can we bring signs, etc"?

The official word I am hearing from Election Officials on the inside is that:

NO ONE CAN WEAR ANY OBAMA/BIDEN TEE SHIRTS OF ANY KIND TO THE POLLS ON ELECTION DAY.

DON'T BRING ANY OBAMA/BIDEN PARAPHERNALIA AT ALL TO BE SAFE.

AS A MATTER OF FACT, DON'T WEAR OR BRING ANY CAMPAIGN ITEMS, SHIRTS, CLOTHES, ETC., THAT ARE PRO OR CON OBAMA/BIDEN OR PRO OR CON MCCAIN/PALIN!

DRESS NORMALLY AS YOU WOULD ON ANY GIVEN DAY!

LEAVE THE CAMPAIGN SHIRTS & ELECTION PARAPHERNALIA AT HOME.

LEAVE IT IN THE CAR OR BETTER YET DON'T BRING IT AT ALL TO THE POLLS ON ELECTION DAY.

YOU WILL BE TURNED AWAY.

DON'T TAKE IT PERSONAL.

THAT IS THE RULE.

Fam, I love all the creative and colorful Obama/Biden Tee Shirts we all see poppin' up all over the place as much as anybody (I saw two new fresh creative ones last night that were off the hook that I wanted to get!) but we don't want any reason for any Obama/Biden voters to be turned away on that day. This is too important!

Wear your Obama/Biden Gear any other time of the day, BEFORE you go to the Polls. You can put it back on after you Voted and Leave The Polls, but do not come to the Polls Wearing it. Once again, you will be turned away and we don't want that! Do not give them a reason to turn you away on Election Day!
Peace!
~LT

VoteForChange.com: Your Voice is Our Future

Jennifer Hudson and Alicia Keys want you to be heard. Even if you think you're registered, visit http://www.VoteForChange.com to check.

Jennifer Hudson's New Album

Jennifer Hudson, an "American Idol" reject, has famously risen to stardom by winning an Oscar for "Dreamgirls." Now she's released her debut album, Jennifer Hudson.

New Music Tuesday: Jennifer Hudson, Jazmine Sullivan, Robin Thicke

Jennifer Hudson News & Blog: The Official Jennifer Hudson Site: www.jenniferhudsononline.com


The Official Jazmine Sullivan Site: www.jazminesullivanmusic.com


Robin Thicke Official Site: www.robinthicke.com


My reviews to follow soon!
~LT

Economic Bailout & Politics

Experts believe Sens. John McCain & Barack Obama each had something to lose when Congress failed to pass an economic rescue bill, reports Jeff Glor.

Good Information: League of Women Voters Voter Registration Guide

League of Women Voters Voter Registration Guide: www.lwv.org

Important and Timely information. Great Tips To Know Concerning The 2008 Presidential Election. What We Will Find On Our Ballots In Each Of Our States And More.
~LT

AP Raw Video: House Defeats Financial Bailout

The United States House of Representatives voted against the $700 billion emergency rescue package for beleaguered financial companies. (Sept. 29)

Radio One, Inc. & Hip Hop Caucus - Respect My Vote Campaign's "One Vote" National Registration Drive Tuesday, September 30th, 2008

News Release

Radio One DC Stations Aiming to Register 50K Voters During Nationwide "One Vote" Registration Drive Tuesday, September 30, 2008 6:00am-9:00pm

WASHINGTON, Sep 25, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Radio One, Inc. along with the Respect my Vote Campaign is planning to register more than 50,000 eligible persons in one day during the "One Vote" National Registration Drive.

Radio One, Inc. is interested in helping the community at large participate in a civic duty that all Americans should participate in. Regardless of party affiliation, Radio One, Inc. wants to reach out to the communities it serves and this initiative will make sure that happens.

Voting is the most fundamental of all our rights. It empowers each citizen with the ability to change their government. Radio One, Inc. is encouraging all Americans to vote and to fully realize the American Dream by playing an active role in our political process.

Who: Radio One-DC Stations

What: One Vote Day -- Voter Registration Drive

Where: Baltimore, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Richmond, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Raleigh/Durham, Houston, Dallas, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Columbus, Detroit, Cleveland and Charlotte

When: September 30th, 2008, 6AM -- 9PM

Why: To help the community realize the American Dream

Radio One, Inc. (www.radio-one.com) is one of the nation's largest radio broadcasting companies and the largest radio broadcasting company that primarily targets African-American and urban listeners. Radio One owns and/or operates 53 radio stations located in 16 urban markets in the United States. Additionally, Radio One owns Magazine One, Inc. (d/b/a Giant Magazine) (www.giantmag.com), interests in TV One, LLC (www.tvoneonline.com), a cable/satellite network programming primarily to African-Americans and Reach Media, Inc. (www.blackamericaweb.com), owner of the Tom Joyner Morning Show and other businesses associated with Tom Joyner.

SOURCE: Radio One, Inc.

Radio One, Inc.
Barry Macon
Corporate Director of Marketing
301-429-3277
Facsimile: 301-429-3502
BMacon@Radio-One.com

Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 Available On-Line

The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 Is Now Available On-Line. Go to the House Committee On Financial Services website @: financial.house.gov
~LT

Text of Economic Rescue Bill Official Summary
By MarketWatch
Last update: 5:57 p.m. EDT
Sept. 28, 2008

I. Stabilizing the Economy

The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA) provides up to $700 billion to the Secretary of the Treasury to buy mortgages and other assets that are clogging the balance sheets of financial institutions and making it difficult for working families, small businesses, and other companies to access credit, which is vital to a strong and stable economy. EESA also establishes a program that would allow companies to insure their troubled assets.

II. Homeownership Preservation

EESA requires the Treasury to modify troubled loans - many the result of predatory lending practices - wherever possible to help American families keep their homes. It also directs other federal agencies to modify loans that they own or control. Finally, it improves the HOPE for Homeowners program by expanding eligibility and increasing the tools available to the Department of Housing and Urban Development to help more families keep their homes.

III. Taxpayer Protection

Taxpayers should not be expected to pay for Wall Street's mistakes. The legislation requires companies that sell some of their bad assets to the government to provide warrants so that taxpayers will benefit from any future growth these companies may experience as a result of participation in this program. The legislation also requires the President to submit legislation that would cover any losses to taxpayers resulting from this program by charging a small, broad-based fee on all financial institutions.

IV. No Windfalls for Executives

Executives who made bad decisions should not be allowed to dump their bad assets on the government, and then walk away with millions of dollars in bonuses. In order to participate in this program, companies will lose certain tax benefits and, in some cases, must limit executive pay. In addition, the bill limits "golden parachutes" and requires that unearned bonuses be returned.

V. Strong Oversight

Rather than giving the Treasury all the funds at once, the legislation gives the Treasury $250 billion immediately, then requires the President to certify that additional funds are needed ($100 billion, then $350 billion subject to Congressional disapproval). The Treasury must report on the use of the funds and the progress in addressing the crisis. EESA also establishes an Oversight Board so that the Treasury cannot act in an arbitrary manner. It also establishes a special inspector general to protect against waste, fraud and abuse.

Paul Newman's Life & Legacy (January 26, 1925 – September 26, 2008)

NBC Today Show's Al Roker reports.
~LT

Redskins Hand Cowboys Their First Loss: 26-24

From: AssociatedPress
Added: September 29, 2008
The Redskins knocked the Cowboys from the ranks of the unbeaten, with a 26-24 victory at Texas Stadium. (Sept. 29)

President Clinton On Meet The Press: On The Financial Crisis & His Support For Senator Obama

"Will The Financial Crisis Change The U.S.?"


Bill Clinton: "I will do my very best for Obama."

Bob Schieffer On Returning To Ole Miss

From: CBS
Added: September 28, 2008
In 1962, riots erupted on the campus of Ole Miss in protest of the university's first black student. In 2008, the school welcomed a historic debate with a black candidate. Bob Schieffer comments.

Senator Barack Obama's Stance On The Economic Bailout

From: CBS
Added: September 28, 2008
Barack Obama talks with Bob Schieffer about his role in the bailout negotiations, stressing the importance of added reforms and protecting American taxpayers.

Senator Barack Obama On The First 2008 Presidential Debate

From: CBS
Added: September 28, 2008
Barack Obama talks about his debate against John McCain and calls one of McCain's assertions a "debating trick." Bob Schieffer questions Obama on the heated topic of diplomacy without preconditions.

Spike Lee on Our World with Black Enterprise DC50, Home of the CW, Starting Sunday, September 28th at 9am ET

From: BEMultiMedia
Added: September 25, 2008
Spike Lee discusses Barack Obama's race to the White House. Catch the rest, including more on his new movie, Miracle at St. Anna, at http://ourworld.blackenterprise.com.

From DC50: www.dc50tv.com

"Our World with Black Enterprise" on
DC50, Home of the CW
Beginning Sunday, September 28th at 9am

DC50, Home of the CW in association with Black Enterprise magazine will broadcast "Our World with Black Enterprise" a news and interview program that addresses international and domestic issues from the African-American perspective. Emmy award winning journalist, Ed Gordon, will host the half-hour weekly program. "Our World with Black Enterprise" premiering on DC50, Home of the CW Sunday, September 28th at 9am.

New Janelle Monáe - 'Many Moons'

Video For Janelle Monáe Third Single "Many Moons" Off Her Recently Re-Released Album As A Special Edition "Metropolis Suite I of IV: The Chase" In Stores Now.
Official J Monáe: www.jmonae.com

Does Janelle Monáe have Andre 3000's dance steps down, or what? She has her Michael Jackson down too I see. This video reminds me a bit of Grace Jones. Very creative.
~LT

Saturday Night At The Movies: 'The Education of Sonny Carson' 1974

Earlier this week on WOL 1450 AM, I was listening to Brother Bernie McCain's show and he was interviewing Inyanla Vanzant. They were discussing a variety of issues when the subject turned to New York in the 1970s. During the conversation, the name Sonny Carson came up. Sonny Carson. Why did that name sound familiar? Where had I heard that name before?

I was intrigued so I popped his name in Google and this came up: The Education of Sonny Carson.


I then looked it up in Google and found this:

"The Education of Sonny Carson is a 1974 film based on the best-selling autobiography of Sonny Carson who joined a gang and committed petty crime before being sent to prison. After his release from prison he changes his life.

"Background

"The film had many original directional styles, of the hand in prison moment from the prisoner and civilian. The dark interrogation moment, where two of the police officers come from the dark interrogating a young black male. In order to portray Sonny Carson's violent gang initiation, the film camera was placed in a metal cage. The scene was filmed from two points of view: one of Sonny running through a row of gang-members beating him with chains and clubs, the other from Sonny's own perspective as he was being humiliated and injured in order to join the gang.

"The film had a $1 million budget[citation needed]. Michael Campus has stressed over this low budget and says he didn't know how he did it. The cast members were people from the neighborhood. The film explores social issues facing the African American population such as poverty, drug abuse, violence and police discrimination.

"Influence

The Wu-Tang Clan and Lauryn Hill have used dialog from the film in their works."

After this I had to pop The Education of Sonny Carson into You Tube and found not only the original trailer to the movie but several clips from the movie. After watching Part I, I had to watch Part 2. Before I knew it I was compelled to watch all of the clips to see it all.

I did a little more research and found out that Sonny Carson was the father of Professor X of the rap group The X-Clan.

This movie really puts you back in that time of the 1970s in New York and what was going on in the Gang Cultures of that time. It also made me think of several scenes I saw play out in the some of the schools and streets of DC and Philly in the 1970s and that this movie may have inspired films like Johnny Tough!, The Warriors, Cooley High and even on up to The Wire today. Also what was an interesting discovery was finding the related videos posted onto YouTube of the real gangs in New York of the 60s and 70s from documentaries to interviews.
~LT

USA Today Article: 'Prince Shows Off A Different Side For '21 Nights' - Daily Mail UK Article: 'Backstage with Prince'

'21 Nights' (Atria Books, $50), a coffee-table tome of Prince's lyrics and poetry and 124 previously unreleased photographs by Randee St. Nicholas comes out next week (Tuesday, September 30th, 2008).
~LT

Prince 21 Nights Official Site: link.brightcove.com

USA TODAY
Weekend Cover Story
Friday, September 26, 2008

'Behind the stylish clothes and sensual image is a spiritual, celibate Prince'
By Edna Gundersen
USA TODAY

Full article link: www.usatoday.com

'Backstage with Prince'
By ALEX BILMES, Daily Mail UK
September 20th, 2008
'Prince is a genius... He's not like you and me.' What happened on the tenth night of the legendary singer's 21-day residency at the O2 arena'
Full article link: www.dailymail.co.uk

History of Debates

CBS: For better or for worse, debates can greatly influence the outcome of presidential elections. Jeff Greenfield has more.

First Person: Debating the First Debate

From: AssociatedPress
Added: September 27, 2008
People in Chicago become debate analysts, giving their own take on the first presidential face-off between John McCain and Barack Obama. (Sept. 27)

Barack Obama on the Debate in Greensboro, NC

Obama spoke to a crowd of 20,000 about John's McCain's debate performance and failure to mention the middle class in last night's debate.

AP Video: McCain, Obama Face Off in First Debate

Senators John McCain and Barack Obama hammered away at each other for 90 minutes in their first face-to-face debate of the campaign. (Sept. 27)

McCain, Obama Face Off on Iraq War

As the presidential debate turned to foreign policy, John McCain and Barack Obama faced off over their differences concerning the war in Iraq. (Sept. 26)

AP Video: McCain, Obama Address Economic Crisis in Debate

The first presidential debate between John McCain and Barack Obama opened with discussion about the economic crisis and the proposed bailout plan. (Sept. 26)

C-SPAN Video: First 2008 Presidential Debate (Full Video)

From: CSPAN
Added: September 27, 2008
Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) and Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) participate in the first 2008 Presidential debate.

Rolling Out Video: "Spike Lee Talks About Miracle At St. Anna"

Also, Spike Lee's appearance on Oprah broadcasts today. Check your local listings.
~LT

President Sidney A. Ribeau to Deliver 141st Opening Convocation Address

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kerry-Ann Hamilton
Media Relations Manager
k_hamilton@howard.edu
202-238-2332

President Sidney A. Ribeau to Deliver 141st Opening Convocation Address
University to Honor Alumnus and Olympic Medalist David Oliver

Washington D.C. - (Sept.22, 2008) Howard University President Sidney A. Ribeau will deliver the keynote address at the 141st opening convocation at Howard University on Friday, Sept. 26, at 11 a.m. in Cramton Auditorium.

During the ceremony, Howard alumnus and Olympic medalist David Oliver (B.A. ’04) will receive a Special Citation of Achievement for his stunning performance during the summer Olympic games in Beijing. Oliver clinched the bronze medal in the Olympic 110-meter hurdles. While at Howard, the 6-foot-2 standout athlete won four MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) championships in the 110-meter hurdles. He graduated in 2004 with a marketing degree from the School of Business.



Convocation is the official beginning of the academic year and serves as a welcoming ceremony for first-year students and an opportunity to honor Howard’s recent accomplishments. President Ribeau will preside over his first convocation since taking the helm on August 1.

Opening Convocation proceedings will be broadcast live on Howard University Radio (WHUR-96.3 FM) and Howard University Television (WHUT-TV), the first African-American-owned public television station in the nation.

WHO: President Sidney A. Ribeau
WHAT: Opening Convocation Address
WHEN: Friday, Sept. 26, 2008
WHERE: Howard University Cramton Auditorium
2455 Sixth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059

© Howard University, all rights reserved.
2400 Sixth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059
Phone: 202-806-6100 - Webmaster / Contacts - WWW Disclaimer

FightTheSmears.com: Fight Back with the Truth!

Visit www.fightthesmears.com to get the facts on lies and smear rumors about Barack Obama.

A Message from Maya About Her Brother Barack Obama's Candidacy for President

Maya Soetoro-Ng shares a message with the Tagalog community about her excitement for her brother, Barack Obama's, candidacy for President. The AAPI community has a critical role to play in this election and by getting involved in this election we can bring about real change in our country.

Joe Biden discusses the McCain/Palin Healthcare Tax

Joe Biden spoke about how the McCain/Palin ticket plans to tax health care benefits as income in Greensburg, PA on September 25th, 2008.

"A Stronger Economy"

In 'A Stronger Economy' Senator Obama tells the American people what he will do as President to put the middle class first and get our economy back on track. On the air...

VoteForChange.com: Alicia Keys

Singer, songwriter, actor Alicia Keys asks you to register to vote on November 4. Visit www.VoteForChange.com to check your registration or request an absentee ballot.

Were Yesterday's Events with Obama vs. McCain Election 2008's "October Surprise" Or Is There More To Come?

From a Political History Point of View, was what happened yesterday, this Election 2008's "October Surprise" or is there more to come? Could something of this magnitude in it's dynamic makeup happen again between now and November 4th? What do you think?

Here is a snippet of Wikipedia's definiton of "October Surprise".
~LT

"Wikipedia - 'October Surprise':

"An October surprise is American political jargon describing a news event with the potential to influence the outcome of an election, particularly one for the presidency. It is so called because the presidential elections are held in early November, and therefore events that take place in October have greater potential to swing votes. "Historically, news outlets avoid investigative pieces critical of candidates within days of an election to avoid appearing partisan." [1] Particularly since the 1980 election, the term has been pre-emptively used to discredit late-campaign news by one side or the other.

"The term usually applies to the acts of a sitting president, especially in military or foreign policy matters. But it can also apply to news stories unfavorable to the incumbent administration."

Some of the examples they give are:
1968 Humphrey vs. Nixon
1972 Nixon vs. McGovern
1980 Carter vs. Reagan
1992 Bush vs. Clinton
2000 Gore vs. Bush
2003 California recall election
2004 Bush vs. Kerry
2006 midterm elections
Saddam Hussein verdict

Full definition at: wikipedia.org/OctoberSurprise

Miles Davis - Kind of Blue 50th Anniversary

The 50th Anniversary of Miles Davis' Kind of Blue is a very historic event. Legacy Recordings is releasing a Collector's Edition Box set on September 30 to celebrate this very important release. Take a look at this piece and see why this is such an important release, if you don't already know.

ALC 08 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. 38th Annual Legislative Conference - Sept. 24th - Sept. 27th, 2008 - Washington, D.C.

ALC 2008: www.alc2008.org

WEDNESDAY, September 24th, 2008 - 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Registration/ Ticketing
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Opening Press Conference
11:00 AM - 5:30 PM CPAR Future Focus Series
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Welcome Ceremony
8:00 PM - 10:30 PM CBC Spouses Celebration of Leadership of the Visual and Performing Arts*

THURSDAY, September 25th, 2008 - 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Registration / Ticketing
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM CBC Spouses Community Breakfast
9:00 AM - 11:45 AM National Town Hall Meeting
10:00 AM -12:00 PM Emerging Leaders Town Hall Meeting
"Hosted by Rep. Bennie G. Thompson"
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM Exhibit Showcase Grand Opening
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM Emerging Leaders Instant Apprentice Luncheon*
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM Networking Luncheon (invitation only)
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM CBC Spouses Essay Contest & Issue Forum
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Issue Forums & Braintrusts / Emerging Leaders Series
6:00 PM -7:00 PM Election 2008: Closing the Gap in Health Disparities (presented by the National Association Health Services Executives at the Marriott Renaissance Hotel) **
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Jazz Forum & Concert
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM CBC Chair's Reception (invitation only)
8:00 PM - 10:30 PM Gospel Extravaganza
9:00 PM - 1:00 AM The Black Party*

FRIDAY, September 26th, 2008 - 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Registration / Ticketing
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM Economic Empowerment Breakfast (invitation only)
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Exhibit Showcase

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Issue Forums & Braintrusts
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM CBCF Chair's Reception
8:00 PM - 11:00 PM Presidential Debate Watch NEW!
(invitation only-all paid registrants receive an invitation)
7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Young Leaders’ Reception & Presidential Debate Watch NEW!
(invitation only)

SATURDAY, September 27th, 2008 - 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM Registration / Ticketing
7:30 AM - 10:00 AM Prayer Breakfast*
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Exhibit Showcase
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Black Health Empowerment Project Session
Hall A, Health Pavilion
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Issue Forums / Emerging Leaders Series
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM VIP Reception
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Annual Awards Dinner*
10:00 PM - 1:30 AM After Dinner Gala NEW!

*Ticketed Event
** Ancillary and Special Events. Synopsis: Educate and advocate for reform in healthcare.
… Networking Luncheon invitation only. Due to space limitations

The Newshour with Jim Lehrer | Close Up: Barack Obama and Leadership | PBS

THE NEWSHOUR WITH JIM LEHRER | Close Up: Barack Obama and Leadership Pt.1 | PBS

From: PBS
Added: September 25, 2008
In the second installment of the NewsHours Close Up series look at the presidential candidates, Margaret Warner, examines Barack Obama and his style of decision making.

THE NEWSHOUR WITH JIM LEHRER | Close Up: Barack Obama and Leadership Pt.2 | PBS

Obama Plans to Debate on Friday

From: AssociatedPress
Added: September 25, 2008
Barack Obama said Thursday he plans to go to Oxford, Mississippi following a trip to Washington, and will proceed with the first presidential debate Friday. (Sept. 25)

AP Article: 'Obama, McCain To Attend Economic Bailout Talks' By Liz Sidoti

Some clarity on what really happened yesterday and why.
~LT

Obama, McCain to attend economic bailout talks

Obama, McCain make political moves on crisis even while saying politics should play no part

LIZ SIDOTI
AP News

Sep 25, 2008 03:33 EST

John McCain and Barack Obama say presidential politics should have no role in the government's efforts to save the crippled financial system. Yet, each is playing his own politics toward the same goals — showing leadership during crisis, getting credit for any solutions, and, ultimately, winning the presidency.

The latest example: a debate over whether the candidates should debate Friday.

McCain called for his Democratic rival to agree to a postponement until Congress agrees on a $700 billion government plan to rescue banks from enormous debt, saying, "We are running out of time."

Obama rebuffed his GOP rival, saying the next president needs to "deal with more than one thing at once."

Both were heading back to Washington on Thursday, summoned by President Bush to attend a White House meeting with congressional leaders in hopes of securing the legislation to rescue the fragile economy.

The stakes were huge for both presidential contenders: The financial upheaval has become an audition of sorts as each man tries to prove to voters that he would exhibit the best judgment and leadership during a national crisis.

Portraying himself as a bipartisan leader in a time of turmoil, each is carefully navigating the potentially perilous political terrain. Both candidates are trying hard not to appear to be using the situation for political gain — even though politics certainly weighs heavily in every move each makes.

Voters — including the 18 percent an AP-Yahoo News poll found are undecided or still could change their minds — certainly are paying close attention with the election little more than five weeks away. And the candidates' postures may tell them a lot about how each would act as president.

Polls show the race competitive, with Obama having a slight advantage in a political landscape that dramatically favors Democrats and appears to be further trending toward them in part because of the intense focus on the economy. Obama leads McCain on that issue.

Neither candidate can afford to simply support fast-tracked legislation; they could be seen as insensitive to taxpayers' concerns about the massive bailout and sweeping government intervention. But they also can't be seen as doing nothing by opposing the measure outright; many economists warn that failing to address the crisis in a meaningful way could plunge the economy into further chaos.

McCain also would certainly leave himself open to criticism that he was again siding with Bush if he supported the administration-backed legislation. However, he also could try to put his own stamp on a Republican Party going through somewhat of an identity crisis; congressional Republicans have suggested they are waiting for a signal from McCain on how to vote.

Both tried to strike a balance Wednesday.

In a brief moment of comity, the two issued a joint statement recognizing that the country was facing "a moment of economic crisis" in which "the jobs, savings and prosperity of the American people are at stake." They called the legislation flawed but also said it must not fail.

"Now is a time to come together — Democrats and Republicans — in a spirit of cooperation for the sake of the American people," they said. "This is a time to rise above politics for the good of the country."

But political maneuvering was exactly what went on during most of the day.

First, the two senators spoke privately about the possibility of issuing a joint statement.

Minutes later and before the two campaigns had hammered out their agreed-upon comment, McCain beat Obama to the punch as he sought to gain ground on the economy, stunt Obama's momentum and put himself in a position where he can claim he put his words into action — and the country ahead of his campaign.

The Republican went before TV cameras in New York to say that he had spoken to Bush and asked him to convene a leadership meeting in Washington that would include him and Obama. He said he would halt campaign events, advertising and fundraising to return to Capitol Hill to work on the crisis until an agreement on legislation was reached.

What's more, McCain called for Friday's debate to be postponed — and for Obama to curtail campaign activities as well.

Shortly thereafter, Obama held his own news conference to reject McCain's challenge.

The Democrat said he would continue with his debate preparations while consulting with bailout negotiators and Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson.

In a political calculation of his own, Obama repeatedly stressed that he called McCain first with the proposal for a joint statement in support of an economic fix. He said McCain called back several hours later and agreed to the idea of a statement but also said he wanted to postpone the debate and hold joint meetings in Washington. Obama said he suggested they first issue the statement.

Obama vs. McCain on Timeline of Events 9.24.08 - To The Media: 'Who's Zoomin' Who?'

Check out these timelines:

From The Obama Campaign:

At 8:30 this morning, Senator Obama called Senator McCain to ask him if he would join in issuing a joint statement outlining their shared principles and conditions for the Treasury proposal and urging Congress and the White House to act in a bipartisan manner to pass such a proposal. At 2:30 this afternoon, Senator McCain returned Senator Obama’s call and agreed to join him in issuing such a statement. The two campaigns are currently working together on the details.

From the McCain Campaign:

Senator Obama phoned Senator McCain at 8:30 am this morning but did not reach him. The topic of Senator Obama’s call to Senator McCain was never discussed. Senator McCain was meeting with economic advisers and talking to leaders in Congress throughout the day prior to calling Senator Obama. At 2:30 pm, Senator McCain phoned Senator Obama and expressed deep concern that the plan on the table would not pass as it currently stands. He asked Senator Obama to join him in returning to Washington to lead a bipartisan effort to solve this problem.

-– Now I saw this play out as it happened on TV yesterday. Was it just me or did not this news break until the 4 pm hour? Before the sun even even went down yesterday certain media outlets were rearranging the timeline of how this happened to make it look like it was all McCain’s idea to meet in the first place despite what Obama’s camp said. Am I right or am I wrong? Did anyone else notice that?
~LT

Bush On Economic Crisis - 9.24.08 - 9:00 PM ET

VideoFrom: CBS
Added: September 24, 2008
As President Bush faces tough opposition, he implored the need for a huge bailout as the economy crumbles and top financial institutions collapse

Bush's Primetime Plea

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson faced more hostility from both parties on whether the bailout is good deal for taxpayers and homeowners. Bob Orr reports.

McCain Bails on Letterman

McCain stands up Letterman...

From: CBS
Added: September 24, 2008
John McCain cancelled his appearance on "The Late Show with David Letterman" to focus on the economic bailout of Wall Street and the talk show host was none too pleased.

Obama Rejects McCain Call for Debate Delay

Barack Obama says that amid financial crisis, it's more important than ever to have debate. This comes as Republican John McCain said he was suspending his campaign and would return to Washington to focus on the financial crisis. (Sept. 24)

McCain Statement

"CBS News RAW": Obama's Bipartisan Plea

"CBS News RAW": Sen. Barack Obama says that the U.S. is facing a financial crisis as serious as the Great Depression. He has called for immediate, bipartisan action.

EBONY Cool. Seriously COOL.

EBONY + Barack. Now, that's cool. Seriously COOL. See more at ebonyjey.com/shopjpc. A cool way for EBONY to follow up their now classic Barack Coolest Brothers of All Time cover.
~LT

EBONY Black Cool Cover Poster

EBONY Barack Obama 'Cool' Red T-Shirt

EBONY Barack Obama 'Cool' Black T-Shirt

EBONY Barack Obama 'Cool' Green T-Shirt

EBONY Barack Obama 'Cool' White T-Shirt

VoteForChange.com: Your Voice

Queen Latifah doesn't want you to be one of the 50 million unregistered voters. Go to www.voteforchange.com to get registered.

?uestLove (QuestLove) Wants College Students to Get Registered

?uestLove, (QuestLove), drummer for the Roots, talks about why he supports Barack and why it's important for Pennsylvanian college students to register and vote.

Getting Ready for First Presidential Sparring

AP: The University of Mississippi is preparing to host one of the most eagerly-anticipated events of the presidential campaign, the first debate between John McCain and Barack Obama on Friday. (Sept. 23)

Michelle on Debate Watch Parties

Michelle Obama asks supporters to attend or host Debate Watch Parties for the first presidential debate on Friday, Sept. 26th at 9pm EST. Visit my.barackobama.com/debate and sign up to attend or host a party in your community.

VoteForChange.com: Ballot Box

Queen Latifah, Sophie Okonedo, Alicia Keys, and Jennifer Hudson want you to visit www.voteforchange.com to register to vote, request an absentee ballot, and find your polling location on November 5, 2008.

The Shot By Gary Varvel

Funny! A sad yet true reality well captured here. On time and on point too! Another great toon by Gary Varvel.
Link: varvelblog
~LT

Obama: Americans Need Assurances About Bailout

Barack Obama said Americans need assurances about the future of the economy if they are expected to help fund the $700 billion bailout of the nation's financial markets. (Sept. 23)

New York Times Article: 'The Wall Street Bailout Plan, Explained'

An informative concise Q & A on the $700 billion Wall Street Bailout Plan.
~LT

The Wall Street Bailout Plan, Explained
By DAVID STOUT
Published: September 20, 2008

Q. The bailout program being negotiated by the Bush administration and Congressional leaders calls for the government to spend up to $700 billion to buy distressed mortgages. How did the politicians come up with that number, and could it go higher?

Q. Who, really, is going to come up with the $700 billion?

Q. So is it fair to say that Americans who are neither rich nor reckless are being asked to rescue people who are? What is in this package for responsible homeowners of modest means who might be forced out of their homes, perhaps for reasons beyond their control?

Q. How is it that the administration and Congress, which have not tried to find huge amounts of money to, say, improve the nation’s health insurance system or repair bridges and tunnels, can now be ready to come up with $700 billion to rescue the financial system? And is it realistic to think that the parties can reach agreement and get legislation passed in a hurry?

Full Q & A: www.nytimes.com

Obama Does Brando

"CBS News Exclusive:" Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama can perform an uncanny impersonation of legendary 'Godfather' actor Marlon Brando.

Tavis Smiley's Video Blog - 9/23/08 | PBS - "You Can't Lead People If You Don't Love People, You Can't Save People If You Don't Serve People"

Tavis talks about his appreciation for Dr. Cornel West.

Spike Lee Attends Premiere of His New Movie 'Miracle at St. Anna.'

Director Spike Lee hit the red carpet in New York City Monday for the premiere of his new movie 'Miracle at St. Anna.' (Sept. 23)

The Miracle At St. Anna: Derek Luke, Michael Ealy, Laz Alonso, Omar Benson Miller Interview

In this edition of Monday Night Conversation, BlackTree TVs own Jamaal Finkley sits down for a 1-on-4 conversation with Derek Luke, Laz Alonso, Omar Benson Miller and Michael Ealy, the cast of The Miracle at St. Anna.

MIRACLE AT ST. ANNA
A SPIKE LEE JOINT
Directed by Spike Lee
Written by James McBride

Miracle at St. Anna chronicles the story of four African-American soldiers who are members of the US Army as part of the all-black 92nd "Buffalo Soldier" Division that fought against the Fascists and Nazis in Italy during World War II.

They experience the tragedy and triumph of World War II as they find themselves trapped behind Nazi lines and separated from their Squad after one of them risks his life to save an orphan Italian boy.

Directed by Spike Lee from a screenplay written by James McBride, the author of the acclaimed novel of the same name, the film explores a deeply inspiring, powerful story drawn from history, that transcends national boundaries, language, race and class to touch the goodness within us all, the Human Race.

CAST
DEREK LUKE - (Aubrey Stamps)
MICHAEL EALY - (Bishop Cummings)
LAZ ALONSO (Hector Negron)
OMAR BENSON MILLER - (Sam Train)
PIERFRANCESCO FAVINO - (Peppi 'The Great Butterfly')
VALENTINA CERVI - (Renata)
JOHN TURTURRO - (Detective Antonio 'Tony' Ricci)
JOSEPH GORDON-LEVITT - (Tim Boyle)
ALEXANDRA MARIA LARA -- (Axis Sally)
LUIGI LO CASCIO -- (Old Angelo)

Director: Spike Lee
Screenplay: James McBride (based on novel of the same name)
Producers: Spike Lee, Robert Cicutto, Luigi Musini
Executive Producers: Jon Kilik, Marco Valerio Pugini

Touchstone Pictures presents in association with
ON MY OWN PRODUZIONI CINEMATOGRAFICHE and RAI CINEMA
a 40 ACRES AND A MULE FILMWORKS production

http://www.blacktree.tv

Men's Vogue October 2008 Issue - 'Barack's Thrill Ride: Stowing Away on 0-Force One'

On The Cover: Barack Obama perfects his stump speech on a flight from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C., before the Pennsylvania primary.

Photographer: Annie Leibovitz

Men's Vogue full article link: www.mensvogue.com

See behind the scenes photos of Obama on the campaign trail at mensvogue.com/go/obama

'Yes We Can: Voices of a Grassroots Movement Limited Edition' CD Available Exclusively At The Obama Campaign Website!

Very nice! A great idea! With all proceeds benefiting the campaign’s fundraising efforts ($24.99 for digital download; $30.00 for physical CD). I will be reviewing this CD!
Peace!
~LT

Press Release:
For Immediate Release
Monday, September 22, 2008

HIDDEN BEACH TO RELEASE HISTORIC COMPILATION INSPIRED BY BARACK OBAMA’S GROUNDBREAKING PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN

18-SONG DISC CONTAINS MATERIAL FROM A DIVERSE RANGE OF ARTISTS INCLUDING STEVIE WONDER, SHERYL CROW, JOHN MAYER, KANYE WEST, JILL SCOTT, JACKSON BROWNE, BEBE WINANS, LIONEL RICHIE, OZOMATLI, DAVE STEWART, KEB’ MO’, ADAM LEVINE, BUDDY MILLER, LOS LONELY BOYS AND JOHN LEGEND

MUSIC COMPILATION AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 19th EXCLUSIVELY VIA THE OBAMA CAMPAIGN WEBSITE; AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE FOLLOWING NOVEMBER 4 th ELECTION

Full Press Release at www.hiddenbeach.com/yeswecan

Tracklisting:
1. Eternity - Lionel Richie
2. Signed Sealed Delivered - Stevie Wonder
3. Waiting On The World To Change - John Mayer
4. American Prayer - Dave Stewart
5. Battle Cry - Shontelle
6. Make It Better - Los Lonely Boys
7. Pride In The Name Of Love - John Legend
8. I Have A Dream - BeBe Winans
9. Am I All Alone - Suai
10. One Is The Magic # - Jill Scott
11. Love & Hope - Ozomatli
12. Looking East - Jackson Browne
13. Out of Our heads - Sheryl Crow
14. Promised Land - Malik Yusef with Kanye West and Adam Levine of Maroon 5
15. Hold On - Yolanda Adams
16. America The Beautiful - Keb' Mo'
17. America - Ken Stacey
18. Wide River - Buddy Miller

Through their musical contributions, the artists seek to mobilize voters in the final stretch before the November election. Many of the artists involved will also be volunteering their time to promote voter registration. For more information on registering to vote or requesting an absentee ballot, go to: www.VoteforChange.com

Bill Clinton on The View - 9.22.08

Bill Clinton on The View 9-22-2008 part 1 of 3


Bill Clinton on The View 9-22-2008 part 2 of 3


Bill Clinton on The View 9-22-2008 part 3 of 3

'Reservations: The Ultimate African American Travel Guide' Volume 1/Issue 2 Available Now!

Issue number two of 'Reservations, The Ultimate African American Travel Guide' is now available!

Inside this issue you will find my 'Music Notes' series which contains my reviews of great vacation music to accompany you during your vacation or journey. You can also find great travel destination ideas, stories, and suggestions from Founder & Editor-In-Chief Kirstin Fuller, and helpful travel tips from a variety of Reservations Agents Contributors including recent LT's Jazzy Radio Loft & Lounge Guest LaTonya Parker and her articles on all the latest vacation entertainment happenings. You can check out LaTonya Parker's regular Charm City feature on her Baltimore Examiner Entertainment Blog at www.BaltimoreExaminer.com.

Reservations was created by native Washingtonian, Kirstin Fuller, Founder & Editor In Chief. Kirstin Fuller was my second guest interview here in my ongoing "Following Your Heart, Living Your Dreams" series.

Reservations One Year Subscriptions are $10 (6 issues) and Two Year Subscriptions are $18 (12 issues).

Subscriptions are available at www.reservationsmagazine.com and myspace.com/reservationsmag.

And as always, feel free to continue drop by my blog anytime as I will continue to do reviews here too!
~LT

Mos Def @ The Kennedy Center Sunday

Mos Def
The Kennedy Center
Sunday, September 21st, 2008 at 7 p.m.
Concert Hall

"The consummate artist--musician, emcee, vocalist, producer, and actor of stage and screen--Mos Def premiered his acoustic project in 2003, and the Mos Def Big Band in January 2007, drawing from original compositions and material by Miles Davis, Beyoncé, James Brown, and Gil Scott-Heron, among others. Always bending genres to create his own sound, Mos lithely flows among hip hop, jazz, and soul while fronting his orchestra of savvy musicians. His face is as familiar as his sound; his acting credits include Be Kind Rewind, 16 Blocks, Something the Lord Made, Lackawanna Blues, and Top Dog/Underdog. Part of Prelude 2008: Arts Across America."

More at: www.kennedy-center.org

Blueprint For Change: Economy

Barack Obama outlines the major points of his economic plan. Visit www.barackobama.com/issues for the full plan.

'Resurrection' at Arena Stage through October 5th, 2008

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

Riot Act Entertainment presents....Paul Mooney, Dick Gregory and Franklyn Ajaye all together, All On One Stage All On One Night!

Riot Act - Mooney, Gregory, Ajaye - DAR

"Riot Act Entertainment presents....
Paul Mooney, Dick Gregory and Franklyn Ajaye all together, all on one stage all on one night.
DAR Constitution Hall, Friday September 19th at 8:30pm. Tickets on sale Now!

"Mr. Mooney's most recent appearances have been on BET's "Top 25 Most @#%!* Moments in Black History", TV Land and "The Dave Chappelle Show", where he is known as the infamous "Negrodamus."

"Mr. Mooney was responsible for many of the jokes that were made famous by the likes of Richard Pryor and Redd Foxx. In addition to being the head writer for "In Living Color", on which he created 'Homie the Clown', his other television writing credits include episodes of "Good Times", "Sanford and Son", "Saturday Night Live", "The Richard Pryor Show", and "Roseanne" among others.

"Never getting the proper acknowledgements for his writing and behind the scenes influence, Mr. Mooney is responsible for much of the writing on such films as "Richard Pryor Live on the Sunset Strip", "JoJo Dancer" and Ice Cube and Chris Tucker's "Friday". He has also made appearances in the films "Bustin' Loose", "Hollywood Shuffle" and "Bamboozled". while his other television appearances include "Soul Train," "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and "Politically Incorrect".

"Mr Mooney has also been nominated for an Emmy for his writing on "Pryor's Place" and a Grammy."

More info at www.riotactcomedy.com
LT

Former 'Idol' Singers Kimberley Locke & Ruben Studdard Give Back

The Official Fan Club of Kimberley Locke: www.kimberleylocke.org

Ruben Studdard Foundation: www.rubenstuddardfoundation.org

Wake Up Everybody - Harold Melvin's Blue Notes

A clip from the upcoming PBS Special, Love Train, coming December 2008. Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia Box Set hits stores October 21, 2008.

Nuttin But Stringz on America's Got Talent

Nice!
~LT

Nuttin But Stringz Official: www.nuttinbutstringz.com

Joe Biden visits The Football Hall of Fame

Joe Biden visits the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

Phil Perry @ Blues Alley Tonight through Sunday

Phil Perry Official: philperry.net

LaTonya Parker Is The Baltimore Entertainment Examiner for Examiner.com!

LaTonya Parker Is The Baltimore Entertainment Examiner for Examiner.com!

LaTonya Parker was my 1st guest interview here in LT's Jazzy Radio Loft & Lounge in my ongoing "Following Your Heart, Living Your Dreams" series which I started in 2006.

LaTonya Parker has worked in the television industry for over 13 years. LaTonya, a native Washingtonian and recent Baltimore implant, enjoys discovering and being a part of the Baltimore entertainment scene. She brings a fresh and unique perspective to what the city has to offer.

For all the latest entertainment happenings in Charm City, check out LaTonya Parker's Examiner.com blog at www.examiner.com

Congratulations, Tonya P.!
~LT

"Living Single Reunion" On TV One - Monday, Sept. 22 @ 7PM ET

TV One Press Release:

TV One Welcomes Living Single to the Primetime Lineup with a Week-Long, Week Night Marathon and a Cast Reunion Special That Premieres Monday, Sept. 22 From 7-8 PM ET

Silver Spring, MD (BlackNews.com) - TV One brings Living Single to its primetime schedule in style, with a week-long marathon and an all-original cast reunion special to kick off the first night on Monday, Sept. 22 from 7-8 PM ET. The premiere of Living Single: The Reunion Show brings together cast members for an all-new evening of laughs, memories, and backstage tales from the popular, award-winning 1990s sitcom about a group of six African American friends living in (or near) a Brooklyn brownstone.

TV One invites viewers to join Kim Coles (Synclaire), Erika Alexander (Max), Kim Fields (Regine), John Henton (Overton), and T.C. Carson (Kyle) as they take this trip down the Living Single memory lane. The special will repeat at 11 PM, and on Friday, Sept. 26 at midnight (all times ET).

In addition to the reunion show, TV One will air a week-long, weeknight marathon event Sept. 22-26, from 7 PM - midnight (except for the times when the reunion show is airing). On each night of the marathon, episodes will showcase different characters: Khadijah on Monday, Sept. 22; Synclaire on Tuesday, Sept. 23; Regine on Wednesday, Sept. 24; Max on Thursday, Sept. 25; and The Boys (Overton and Kyle) on Friday, Sept. 26.



Beginning Monday, Sept. 29, Living Single settles into its regular time slot weeknights at 8:30 and 9 PM ET.

Launched in January 2004, TV One (www.tvoneonline.com) serves more than 45.3 million households (Nielsen Sept. 2008 estimate), offering a broad range of lifestyle and entertainment-oriented original programming, classic series, movies, fashion and music designed to entertain, inform and inspire a diverse audience of adult African American viewers. TV One's investors include Radio One [NASDAQ: ROIA and ROIAK; www.radio-one.com], the largest radio company that primarily targets African American and urban listeners; Comcast Corporation [NASDAQ: CMCSA and CMCSK; www.comcast.com], the leading cable television company in the country; The DirecTV Group; Constellation Ventures; Syndicated Communications; and Opportunity Capital Partners.

Motown Songwriter, Producer Norman Whitfield Dies

Radio remembers Norman Whitfield
Thursday, September 18th 2008, 4:00 AM

Norman Whitfield, the Motown writer/producer who died Tuesday at age 65, was one of those guys who could just plain flat-out make a great radio record.

That was the whole mission of Motown in the 1960s, of course, and while Whitfield did it a little differently than Smokey Robinson or the Holland-Dozier-Holland team, he did it just as well.

New York Daily News: www.nydailynews.com


Los Angeles Times Obituary

Norman Whitfield dies at 67; Motown producer and songwriter won two Grammy Awards
Louis Lanzano / Associated Press

Norman Whitfield won two Grammy Awards as a songwriter and composer.

The producer for the Temptations and the writer of such hits as 'I Heard It Through the Grapevine' had long struggled with diabetes and other ailments.
By Randy Lewis, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
September 18, 2008
Norman Whitfield, the Grammy-winning songwriter and forward-thinking producer who helped shape the direction of R&B and soul music at Motown Records in the 1960s and '70s, died Tuesday. He was 67.

LA Times Obit link: www.latimes.com

Between 1966 and 1974, Whitfield produced nearly every song by The Temptations.

Production and Songwriting

1963: "Pride & Joy" - Marvin Gaye
1964: "Too Many Fish in the Sea" - The Marvelettes
1964: "Needle in a Haystack" - The Velvelettes
1964: "He Was Really Sayin' Somethin'" - The Velvelettes
1964: "Girl (Why You Wanna Make Me Blue)" - The Temptations
1966: "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" - The Temptations
1966: "Beauty Is Only Skin Deep" - The Temptations
1966: "(I Know) I'm Losing You" - The Temptations
1967: "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" - Gladys Knight & the Pips, also recorded by Marvin Gaye and Creedence Clearwater Revival
1967: "You're My Everything" - The Temptations
1967: "I Wish It Would Rain" - The Temptations
1968: "I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)" - The Temptations
1968: "The End of Our Road" - Gladys Knight & The Pips
1968: "Cloud Nine" - The Temptations
1968: "Ain't No Sun Since You've Been Gone" Diana Ross & The Supremes
1969: "Friendship Train" - Gladys Knight & the Pips
1969: "Runaway Child, Running Wild" - The Temptations
1969: "Too Busy Thinking About My Baby" - Marvin Gaye
1969: "I Can't Get Next to You" - The Temptations
1969: "Don't Let The Joneses Get You Down" - The Temptations
1970: "You Need Love Like I Do (Don't You)" - Gladys Knight & The Pips, also recorded by The Temptations
1970: "Psychedelic Shack" - The Temptations
1970: "Hum Along and Dance" - The Temptations (later covered by Rare Earth and The Jackson 5)
1970: "Ball of Confusion (That's What the World Is Today)" - The Temptations
1970: "War" - Edwin Starr
1971: "Smiling Faces Sometimes" - The Undisputed Truth, originally recorded by The Temptations
1971: "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)" - The Temptations
1972: "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" - The Temptations
1973: "Masterpiece" - The Temptations
1973: "Let Your Hair Down" - The Temptations
1976: "Car Wash" - Rose Royce
1976: "I'm Going Down" - Rose Royce
1976: "I Wanna Get Next to You" - Rose Royce
1977: "Ooh Boy" - Rose Royce
1977: "Wishing on a Star" - Rose Royce
1978: "Love Don't Live Here Anymore" - Rose Royce

Tavis Smiley's Video Blog - 9/17/08 | PBS

Tavis discusses celebrating his 1,000th episode on PBS.

Barack On McCain in Elko, NV - "The Old Boys Network...In The McCain Campaign That's Called A Staff Meeting"

Barack Obama made the choice in this election clear at a rally in Elko, NV on September 17th, 2008.

LOL! Good one, Barack! Good One!
~LT

Denzel Washington and Boys & Girls Club VIPs Kick-Off New Campaign on Capitol Hill

Boys & Girls Clubs of America Press Release:

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA TO LAUNCH “BE GREAT” ADVOCACY CAMPAIGN

Denzel Washington and Boys & Girls Club VIPs Kick-Off New Campaign on Capitol Hill;
Some 20 Prominent Alumni will Join the Effort

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 17, 2008) -- America’s youth need your help. From academic failure and gang violence to poverty, drugs and obesity, they face a daunting array of problems with serious consequences and fewer safety nets at home and in the community.

To address these issues and call America to action, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), the nation’s largest youth development network, is kicking off a new integrated advocacy campaign called BE GREAT, led by national spokesperson and Academy Award-winning actor Denzel Washington.

Other Club alumni joining Washington in the BE GREAT campaign include: Muhammad Ali, Swin Cash, Bill Clinton, Bill Cosby, Cuba Gooding Jr., Michael Jordan, Queen Latifah, Mario Lopez, John Mellencamp, Edward James Olmos, Smokey Robinson, John Singleton, Ruben Studdard, Usher, Courtney Vance, Mark Wahlberg and Kerry Washington.

“As someone whose life was changed dramatically by the Boys & Girls Club, I can think of no better organization to lead the country in addressing the pressing needs of today’s young people,” said Washington. “I also believe that as adults, we must assume responsibility for many of the conditions that are preventing our young people from achieving their full potential.”

The BE GREAT campaign will be unveiled today after a Congressional Breakfast on Capitol Hill. At the breakfast, BGCA will announce the organization’s 2008 – 2009 National Youth of the Year, who will share her/his story about how the Boys & Girls Club has affected her/his life. Following the event, the new National Youth of the Year will personally deliver a report of recommendations to the offices of Senators John McCain and Barack Obama to convey the issues of most concern to America’s teens.

The BE GREAT campaign was developed after BGCA conducted an online survey of more than 1,100 teens earlier this year in which 33 percent said that academic failure is the top issue facing America. In the survey, another 67 percent reported knowing someone who had dropped out of high school.

In March 2008, BGCA hosted a national Teen Town Hall meeting in Los Angeles, where young Americans (20 percent) expressed concern about the rising level of teen pregnancy and 22 percent reported knowing students who regularly carry weapons to school.

In response, BGCA’s advocacy campaign urges Americans to:
• Get involved in the life of a child by volunteering, serving on a local board or financially supporting local Boys & Girls Clubs.
• Ask elected officials to call attention to the issues affecting young people, and to direct more partnerships and resources toward solutions.
• Reconnect and re-engage as alumni with organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs that positively impacted their lives as youth.
• Host a youth forum in their community.

New Music Tuesday: Wayne Brady's New CD 'Long Time Coming'

Wayne Brady | A Long Time Coming featurette from Concord Music Group on Vimeo.

Wayne Brady Official: www.waynebrady.com

Barack Obama: Confronting an Economic Crisis

Barack gave a speech detailing his plans for repairing America's struggling economy in Golden, CO on September 16th, 2008.

Joe Biden on The Today Show, September 16 2008

Joe Biden discusses the economy and John McCain's campaign tactics.

CableFAX The Magazine "Diversity Issue" 2008 Most Influential Minorities in Cable

Also, What An Obama Victory Could Mean For Minorities In The Cable Industry.
~LT

Cable Fax The Magazine
The Magazine's Diversity Issue
2008 Most Influential Minorities in Cable
September 12, 2008

Whoever wins this year’s presidential election, 2008 will be seen as a watershed period for minorities in the U.S. Barack Obama currently holds the slimmest of margins and, should he lose to John McCain, you can bet he will be back in the next cycle, having proved that we have finally entered an era in which a person of color can lead and refocus one of the two major political parties. An Obama win, on the other hand, could have immediate influence on diversity efforts in all industries — they would likely have to undergo some refocusing of their own (see the round table on page 37 for a discussion of the future of cable’s diversity efforts). As our fifth annual Most Influential Minorities in Cable list on the succeeding pages indicates, diversity efforts have borne...(more)