Big Girls Do Cry

One of the best parts of being a feature writer is perusing the piles of romance novels we receive for review purposes.

Unfortunately, the majority of those novels are never mentioned in the paper -- it's hard to write about them without the tie-in of a local author appearance.

"Big Girls Do Cry" was the exception to the rule. Its author, Carl Weber, signs books at 4 p.m. Saturday at Barnes & Noble in Columbus Park Crossing.

So I had pleasure of reading the book -- all in the name of journalism, of course. What did I learn? Never discount a romance novel's worth.

Call them cheesy, but the books have an escapist appeal that's hard to find elsewhere. No matter how broke or stressed you are, you can't help feeling a little better after reading lines like these:

I'm sure I have only one purple thong, Leon. So I want to know, how did this get in the living room if I'm wearing my only pair?

What kind of woman leaves her panties behind anyway? She had to know they were missing with an ass that size.

Mister, the last time someone told me we had a friend in common, she ended up telling me it was my husband and she was sleeping with him.

What he didn't understand, and quite frankly what most men don't understand, is that when women get mad, all their parts get mad. In other words, Big Sexy's Sex Shop was closed!

(All excerpts are from "Big Girls Do Cry" by Carl Weber. Order the book here.)

What's going on this weekend?

Hey party people! Friday, Jamey Johnson and Josh Thompson perform at the Columbus Civic Center. Tickets are $22.50-$32.50 and the show starts at 8 p.m. Details here.

There's also a sci-fi convention, Gallacon, at Gallery 13 (1540 Veterans Parkway). Action starts at 5 p.m. Friday and $5 gets you all-weekend access. Read more here.

Here's the rest of your weekend lineup:

FRIDAY

The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and the Bizness, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

Belloo’s: The Relics, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

The Vault: Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. $5. 706-507-1440.

Daileys: Ophir Drive, 10 p.m. 706-320-3353.

SoHo Bar & Grill: PsykNyne, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

SATURDAY

The Loft: The Good Doctor, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Daileys: Ophir Drive, 10 p.m. 706-320-3353.

Belloo’s: The Relics, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

The Vault: Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. $5. 706-507-1440.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Burn, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

We're pregnant!

Don't worry, Mom: I'm not making a life-changing announcement.

Instead, I'm discussing couples obsessed with using "we."

It seems like some daters enter relationships simply to incessantly use the term.

On some occasions, "we" is warranted. Exhibit A: "We will be there at 9."

But unfortunately, "we" has become more associated with unnecessary usage -- times when it seems to drain your significant other's autonomy. For example, "We totally hate that movie."

Then there are the occasions when "we" simply doesn't make sense -- like my biggest pet peeve, "We're pregnant."

Unless your significant other will be craving pickles and wearing elastic-waist jeans, settle for "I," honey.

As much as I hate the word, I understand the motivation for using "we." It reinforces a belief that strong relationships involve shared emotions.

Maybe that's why this study recently indicated couples who refer to themselves as "we" have stronger marriages.

It's enough to make me -- er, we -- reconsider my choice of language.

(via Jezebel)

Beyonce Signs on for Big Super Bowl Ads

 

It looks like Beyonce is going to have 3 Super Bowl spots with the company VIZIO, a manufacturer of HD TVs.   Super Bowl 44 is charging $3 - $6 Million dollars per ad.

RIP, telephone

In the relationship world, have telephone conversations become just as obsolete as phrases like "going steady"?

Here, a Glamour blogger writes a humorous obituary for our good old friend Phone Call. An excerpt:

The Phone Call died a slow death. Its health began to decline in 2002 when unlimited text messaging plans allowed texting to become widespread. It is survived by millions of women who remember the way it provided a means for long-form verbal communication and an opportunity to show genuine effort on the caller’s part.

Sob, sob.

When it comes to romance, Telephone and I have had a rocky relationship. From high school until college, I was absolutely terrified to ask guys out via phone. I'd sit by the phone prepping myself for at least an hour before the call. No joke.

Once I attempted to do The Ask via AOL Instant Messenger. My date wouldn't accept the cop-out, and said I had to call him if I wanted a "yes." I obliged...reluctantly.

Still, I can't ignore the phone's more positive memories.

You know, the butterflies you get in your stomach upon seeing your crush's name first appear on your cell phone. Or the comfort of knowing that amid life's uncertainties, reassurance is just a ring away.

Weigh in: When you're dating someone, do you prefer to communicate by phone call or text message?

Why are you still single?

Don't worry: You don't have to answer that...even though I blame your unattached status on those unsightly nose hairs. (Kidding!)

This post's title was inspired by a NY Times feature profiling John Bowe, a freelance journalist and bachelor. Bowe produced “Us: Americans Talk About Love,” a collection of oral histories about relationships.

The point of the article isn't so much Bowe's project, but rather the 40-something's singledom.

He wears nice clothes. Cooks. Brews mint tea.

On the surface, the qualities seem to constitute what many women would consider a "catch."

So why is Bowe still single? He attributes it largely to a decision to choose a career over relationships, noting, "I think it’s a very arrogant gamble I made in a way. I’ll have time to set up a career that fulfills my spiritual goals and then have time for a relationship afterwards."

Does Bowe really deserve his own feature story? His predicament really isn't all that different from thoughts any single 20-, 30- or 40-something encounters.

You hit a point in your life when you become cognizant of the way seemingly minor decisions have affected your relationship status.

Wider social circles -- thanks, Facebook! -- make us more aware of the high school party comrade who now has four kids...or the college roommate who turned down her dream job to marry the perfect man.

It's easy to look at those examples and wonder, "What if I hadn't moved away?" Or, "What if I had given him another chance?"

But obviously, you can't go back in time...and those thoughts are bound to leave you envisioning dream-like scenarios that are both impractical and unhealthy.

Video: American Idol Dallas recap

Here's my "American Idol" video recap of Dallas auditions. You'll learn about the former "Barney & Friends" star who's now a dominatrix.

Get more information on my "Idol" blog here.

(Camera work by Alan Riquelmy.)

Faking it

You stock up on cough syrup, cook some soup and sport your best Florence Nightingale smile...only to find your allegedly sick boyfriend doing jumping jacks in the living room.

Busted.

We've hit a time of year when it's common to complain about flu-like symptoms. And for every genuine ailment, there's about 50 people hoping they've finally mastered the art of faking an illness.

Here, YourTango discusses the tendency to extend -- or even fake -- illness to get extra attention or sympathy from your significant other.

Sure, it's not the best relationship practice. But sometimes you just don't want to let go of the warm fuzzy feelings that come with having somebody deliver you a bread bowl on a nightly basis.

Intent on faking illness? Check out Gawker's rules for calling in sick. Hint: Don't say you have food poisoning.

Video: American Idol Los Angeles recap

Here's my newest "American Idol" video recap about Tuesday's Los Angeles auditions. Get of a full summary of the show here.

Tonight, "American Idol" features Dallas auditions with guest judges Neil Patrick Harris and Joe Jonas. The one-hour show airs 8 p.m. on Fox.

Advances in Internet dating

Say goodbye to your favorite romantic cliche: "I love long walks on the beach."

That phrase could become obsolete if ProfileWiz catches on. The service writes an online dating profile for you, based on your answers to a variety of photo-based questions. The cost: $4.75.

It's not a bad deal, but it also makes it a lot more difficult to weed out weird people when perusing online dating sites.

The profile has long been regarded as an almost fail-safe screening device -- not to mention a way to determine if your date knows the difference between "whose" and "who's."

Weigh in: If you met someone online, and then realized he/she didn't write an original profile, would you break up?

Brangelina

They're the perfect couple, and they look totally cute together.

So why do you want them to break up?

Here, amid recent rumors of a Brangelina split, College Candy admits something that might as well be a form of blasphemy: Some of us want Brangelina to fail.

An excerpt:

Maybe it’s because we are all jealous she can wear a $20 thrifted dress on the red carpet and looking absolutely stunning. Or how flawless her acting career is. Or how she is saving the world, one person at a time. Or how she goes to bed with Brad Pitt every night. She is Angelina Jolie. She is perfect. And now it’s our chance to strike back a little bit; to savor the moment as Angelina’s perfect facade cracks a little and her world comes crumbling down.

Ouch. But strangely, I understand.

I've never prayed for a couple's demise. However, when you look at couples whose interactions seem flawless, it's only natural to secretly hope that behind closed doors, they're experiencing the challenges that characterize "normal" relationships.

Confession time: Have you ever wanted a seemingly perfect couple to fail?

Wedding trailers

Tired of receiving "save the date" cards via mail? You ain't seen nothing yet.

Here, Salon discusses the growing popularity of wedding trailers. That's right: Your friends are making videos promoting their weddings.

Don't equate "popularity" with "coolness." As the blog post notes, wedding trailers can be incredibly annoying, with possible exception of the clip I've posted above (also via Salon).

What annoys me most about wedding trailers?

The videos reinforce a growing belief that in relationships, every gesture must be YouTube-worthy. That belief can detract from the romance that often accompanies sheer simplicity.

But if there's a defense for wedding trailers, it's that -- when executed properly -- the clips give couples a rare opportunity to showcase their genuine selves.

And sometimes, amid weddings dominated by appeasing relatives and adhering to outside expectations, that's a rare gift.

(Getting married? Check out reporter Katie Holland's wedding blog here.)

Evander Holyfield Going Broke?

Former boxing heavyweight Evander Holyfield is attempting to change up his child support payments -- claiming he's just not pulling in the cash he was 10 years ago.
According to documents filed last month in Cobb County Superior Court in Georgia, Holyfield wants his agreement with ex-wife Janice Itson from 2000 modified because his "income has decreased."

The shame game

How far would you go to shame an ex who hurt you?

I thought about the question after reading this article about a woman who bought billboards after the married man she'd been dating for almost 9 years decided to work things out with his wife.

The billboards featured the mistress posing with the married guy -- right beside quotations like, "You are my soulmate forever!"

I had a friend who learned her boyfriend was cheating -- and then promptly sent a letter to his family detailing his relationship failings.

Shame has never been a big post-breakup priority for me.

Being bad at relationships doesn't necessarily make someone a bad person, and it's a little unfair to make a public issue of what's supposed to be a bedroom matter.

Then again, don't ask me how many billboard slogans I've devised -- in case of emergency, of course.

P.DIDDY SON TURNS 16

*Sean “Diddy” Combs is throwing his eldest son Justin an extravagant “Prince of New York” 16th birthday party that will be featured on MTV’s reality series “My Super Sweet 16.”

A source told the New York Daily News: “The club will be decorated with images from the New York skyline.”

read more click here

Technorati Tags: sean diddy,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

MAN PLEADS WITH STEVE HARVEY

*Steve Harvey is enjoying tremendous success with his book “Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man.” In it and in TV and personal appearances, he advises black women on how black men think.

Mr. Harvey is also known for his constant castigating of black men below his generation of not knowing how to treat women.

read more click here/watch video

Technorati Tags: steve harvey,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

NELLY DOING INTERVIEWS FOR ESPN

*Rapper Nelly has been recruited by ESPN the Magazine to interview jocks at the sixth annual NEXT event next month in Miami.

The affair is held to promote the publication’s annual NEXT issue, featuring interviews and listings of the next big stories in sports.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: nelly,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

PANTS ON THE GROUND MAN GETTIN MONEY

General Larry Platt, the 61-year-old “American Idol” hopeful whose original audition song “Pants on the Ground” has become a nationwide phenomenon, has reportedly hired a lawyer in hopes of cashing in on the tune’s popularity.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Larry Platt,black celebrity gossip,black gossip,Pants On the Ground

FLAVA FLAV IN A CAR ACCIDENT IN VEGAS

TMZ.com is reporting that Flavor Flav was involved in a two-car crash in Las Vegas Wednesday night.

The rapper-turned-reality TV star reportedly suffered no major injuries. Information on the condition of the other driver was not available at press time.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: flava fav,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

SPIKE LEE “WHEN LEVEES BROKE” SEQUEL

Spike Lee begins production today on an update to his Emmy-winning HBO documentary “When the Levees Broke,” about the rebuilding efforts in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.

read more click here

 

Technorati Tags: spike lee,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

What's going on this weekend?

Hey everybody! SoHo Bar & Grill hosts a birthday party for Vickie Carson, talent buyer for the bar, on Saturday night. Expect a free champagne toast, giveaways and a performance by Atlanta's Holdcell. Action starts at 10 p.m. and cover is $5.

Here's your full lineup:

FRIDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

The Vault: Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. $5. 706-507-1440.

Daileys: Lazy Swamis, 8 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends with Lou Vandora, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and the Bizness, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Losing Adelaide, Ghost of Gloria, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

SATURDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

The Vault: Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. $5. 706-507-1440.

Daileys: Lazy Swamis, 8 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends with Lou Vandora, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

The Loft: The Kicks, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Holdcell, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

Black Money: Beyonce and Her Hubby are Rollin in Dough

What makes more than an uber-celebrity who earns millions per movie, album, or TV season? Two uber-celebrities who just happen to be married. Forbes is always giving us a behind-the-scenes peek at famous finances—don't tell us you weren't surprised by the top-earning dead celebrities—and their latest list shows the famous couples who made the most from June 2008 to June 2009. Topping the list—actually, clobbering the list (they made almost twice what the #2 couple grossed)—are Jay-Z andBeyonce. Together, they banked $122 million smackeroos. Interestingly, Beyonce is the one who brought home the most bacon—she earned $87 million to his $35 million. Also notable: While this is a massive amount of money, it's actually much less than these two made last year, when they pulled in $162 million cumulatively.

Click to read.

Love and video games

Lots of women say their relationship is characterized by one word: WoW.

Unfortunately, that's not a good thing.

That's because it refers to "World of Warcraft," a video game that often hooks players to the point of obsession.

Needless to say, date night isn't best spent staring at a somebody play on a computer. Even if your boyfriend does have really hot knuckles.

The Frisky cites a recent study that revealed 20 percent of women have dumped a guy over video games.

I'm not surprised.

Yes, video games can ignite a child-like sense of wonder in your guy. That's a little endearing.

But the games are also very time-consuming. Not to mention kind of violent. You know things are bad when you don't even blink after hearing, "Saturday was great. I killed two people."

Weigh in: Have you ever had a romantic dispute centered on video games?

Everybody Hates Kanye

It looks like the actions of Kanye West in the past and his constant issue with checking his ego at the door hasn't paid off for the rapper even now.

In an attempt to bring as many supporters as possible to aid in the relief of Haiti, there have been countless telethons being conducted to raise awareness and donations for the country after the devastation that it's suffered.

Actor George Clooney is doing his part with his own telethon, but reports are saying that he won't allow West to participate in the fundraiser which will be broadcasted tomorrow.

Sources have added that they are going out of their way to ensure that West doesn't make an unwanted appearance, courtesy gawker.com.

“After what he said on the Katrina telethon and the way he behaved at the MTV Video Music Awards, everyone agrees it's just best that he does not participate,” said a producer.

 

Click to read.

What's going on tonight?

Hey party people! Here are some Thursday night party options:

Fountain City Coffee: Open mike, 8 p.m., no cover. 706-494-6659.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Almost Kings, Soul Stash, 10 p.m., no cover. 706-568-3316.

Belloo's: Martini tasting and Ladies Night menu with $5 martinis, no cover. 706-494-1584.

Shanty Shack: Poker at 7 p.m., "Gone Country" night, DJ Tiny Tim, no cover, 706-507-3418.

Video: American Idol Orlando recap

Here's my newest "American Idol" video recap. You'll learn all about the Orlando auditions, which were entertaining, but not as good as "Pants on the Ground."

Learn more on my "Idol" blog here.

Brothers Speak: Charlamagne Tha God on Dr. King’s Dream

 

Expand Your Reality - Expand your reality to the point where you pursue what you love doing and excel at it. Involve yourself in high-energy levels of trust, optimism, appreciation, reverence, joy, and love when you engage in every activity in your life.

-Dr. Wayne W. Dyer The Power of Intention

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a DREAM that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed that all men are created equal. A DREAM that his four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. He had a DREAM that one day the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at a table of brotherhood. He hoped for a freedom that would allow blacks and whites to work together as well as pray together. He had a dream that one day we all would be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual: "Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

Click to read.

No, Wyclef Was Not Stealing Your Money

As musician Wyclef Jean tearfully denied recent allegations that he misappropriated funds from his Yele Haiti charity, experts on non-profits said they couldn't find serious wrongdoing, except for a lapse of discipline in filing his taxes.

"Did I ever use Yele money for personal benefits? Absolutely not," Jean said Monday at a press conference in Manhattan. "Yele's books are open and transparent, and we have a clean bill of health by an external auditor every year since we started."

The tears began as Jean addressed his fellow Haitians in his native Creole. "I do not cry for myself; I cry for them," he explained, translating for the English-speaking members of the audience. "I tell them, just permit us a little time."

The charges of misappropriated funds emerged over the last several days, as Jean was in Port-au-Prince assisting with relief efforts following last week's earthquake. Donations have poured in during that time, totaling "several million dollars," Hugh Locke, president of Yele Haiti, said at the press conference.

Click to read.

When nature calls

Don't drink three cups of coffee before entering a movie theater.

Few things beat the discomfort of knowing there's a really good love scene coming up...but wondering if you can hold out on your bathroom trip until that moment.

Fortunately, there's a Web site to ease your pain.

Visit RunPee.com for a list of appropriate bathroom breaks in a variety of popular movies.

The site compiles a list of moments where there's a lapse in action, and tells you exactly how long your bathroom stop must be.

(via College Candy)

The proposal that wasn't

It happens to almost every girl in a long-term relationship, even if you vow you're not "the marrying type."

Your boyfriend takes you on romantic trip, dresses up, buys a fancy dinner. After dessert, he hands you some roses before getting down on one knee. Your heart races.

Until you realize he's just tying his shoe.

The proposal that wasn't.

It strikes even the most careful victims, especially the ones who vow they're not ready for anything serious. Before long, you're rehearsing professions of love and planning your wedding party.

Then, you feel like a total goober when what seemed like a sure thing turns into just a false alarm.

Here, Glamour offers a hilarious story where one excited woman watched her boyfriend romantically reach inside his backpack...and pull out a bag of Doritos.

Ah, disappointment. But it makes for a good story, right?

(Not all marriage proposals are foiled by Cool Ranch Doritos. Ledger-Enquirer reporter Katie Holland is chronicling her wedding planning online. Follow her here.)

CIARA GETS A NEW DEAL

Ciara and her goodies just landed an official Adidas deal. Ciara will join other international notables including soccer superstar David Beckham for the 2010 Adidas Originals Global campaign. Ciara will serve as one of the campaign spokespersons in worldwide commercials and model print ads for the women’s line.

Ciara already has a large portfolio of sponsors/endorsements including Verizon, DoSomething.org, Express (skinny) Jeans and fashion designers Givenchy and Pucci.

Technorati Tags: Ciara,Adidas,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

MAXWELL PERFORMS ON OPRAH TOMORROW FOR HAITI SPECIAL

Maxwell be appearing on Oprah’s “Fistful of Tears” special for Haiti tomorrow.  Maxwell (and his mother) was born in Haiti and he maintains close ties and family with the now devastated country.  Rihanna is also scheduled to perform on the how.

Technorati Tags: Maxwell,Haiti,Oprah,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

MICHELLE OBAMA BECOME A WAX FIGURE

First Lady Michelle Obama has been commemorated in wax at London’s Madame Tussaud’s museum. They put her right next to her hubby’s wax statue in the makeshift Oval Office.

Technorati Tags: Michelle Obama,Madame Tussaud's,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

BEYONCE STILL NOT SURE ABOUT HAVING A CHILD

In the new February issue of Allure, Beyonce talks about still not knowing nothing about birthing no babies…..yet.  Despite rumors spreading that she and Jay are planning a baby for the end of this year. She says:

“I definitely want to have a child, but I know from my nephew it’s a lot. I hope that those things will just happen naturally. I still haven’t had time to relax.”

On her workout and diet regimen:

“I always say, ‘I don’t want to lose my curves.’ I like firm curves,” Knowles, 28, says. “You can never do enough squats, you can never do enough sit-ups. I like for women to look feminine.”

Technorati Tags: Beyonce,Allure,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

JAY-Z WANTS TO RAISE A FAMILY IN FLORIDA

According to Jay-Z, he is ready to start a family and thinks Orlando would be a great place to do so.  Pop the top for the details.

In a recent interview Jay said this:

“New York is gritty and real and helped shape both my music and my life, but Orlando—Orlando has it all,” said the 40-year-old recording artist. “Plenty of shops, amazing restaurants, and you’re only minutes away from Universal Studios. Plus, Orlando is just a really great place to raise a family.” Jay-Z went on to declare that if you could make it in Kissimmee–St. Cloud, you could probably make it anywhere.

Technorati Tags: JayZ,black gossip,your black celebrity gossip

Video: American Idol Chicago recap

Here's my recap of Tuesday's episode of "American Idol," which featured auditions in Chicago. The talent was a little underwhelming.

Get a full summary by visiting my "Idol" blog here.

Wednesday's one-hour show focuses on Orlando auditions. It airs 8 p.m. on Fox.

Green wars

Are fights about saving the planet sending couples to therapy?

Here, the NY Times has an article where some therapists report an increase in 'green disputes' -- fights that happen when a person thinks his/her significant other isn't being environmentally friendly enough.

Honestly, the whole thing seems a little silly...almost like a spoof piece you'd read in The Onion.

But it raises an interesting question about which divisive issues remain mere disagreements and which ones put couples in therapy.

In relationships, I think it's important to disagree on some policy issues.

For example, Alan and I have entirely opposing views on the medical world. He puts a lot of faith in it, and I'm usually the first one to criticize a medical opinion.

This issue comes up a lot in casual discussions. While we never agree, I've evolved to the point where I don't take his opinions as a criticism of our relationship.

Would those policy disagreements ever land us in therapy? I hope not.

Especially since, you know, I'm a little leery of modern medicine.

LISA RAY TAKES IT OFF FOR GIANT MAGAZINE

 

 

We gotta give Lisa Raye props for her middle-aged banger status, but after checking out her latest photoshoot with Giant Magazine we were surprised that she still can’t resist falling back on old “Players Club” tricks.

Technorati Tags: Lisa Ray,Giant Magazine,Black gossip,black celebrity gossip

KERRY WASHINGTON GETS A LESBIAN LOVER IN UPCOMING MOVIE ROLE

Kerry Washington stay getting some swirl/lesbian roles:

Having been set to play a lesbian lover for Kristin Chenoweth in a planned Dusty Springfield biopic, Kerry Washington reveals she can’t wait since she’s ‘been waiting to make out with her forever.’ Actress Kerry Washington is all set to pucker up for a same-sex smooch with Kristin Chenoweth after learning the Broadway star wants her to play her lesbian lover in a planned Dusty Springfield biopic. Last year 2009, Chenoweth revealed she wanted Washington to play her love interest if her dreams of playing the late singer onscreen ever came to fruition. And Washington is game.

She tells E!Online.com she recently met Chenoweth at a restaurant and said, “I would love to be your lesbian lover!” The actress adds, “It’s very exciting. I’m feeling like I’ve been waiting to make out with her (Chenoweth) forever.”

Technorati Tags: Kerry Washington,Kristin Chenoweth,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

LA TOYA JACKSON WANTS TO TAKE SIMON COWELLS SEAT

La Toya Jackson is next in line to fill Simon Cowell's shoes on "American Idol" -- that's if La Toya Jackson has anything to do with it.

We're told MJ's sister and former "Idol" producer Nigel Lythgoe cozied up at a housewarming party for Kathy Hilton in Bel Air recently -- before Simon broke his big news -- and the topic came up of La Toya possibly guest-judging on the show.

But now that Simon's out of the picture, La Toya wants more.
We spoke to her and she tells TMZ: "I would LOVE to be a judge on 'American Idol.' I would love to have a chance for the public get to know the real me. I would be thrilled."
In other news: there's a "real" La Toya Jackson.

Technorati Tags: La Toya Jackson,Simon Cowell,American Idol Seat,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

'A little bit married'

They sleep in the same bed every night. Share responsibilities for household chores. Own a pet together.

But they're not married.

Sound familiar?

This Daily Beast article points to a relationship trend among my generation: the long-term unmarried relationship. The piece is written by Hannah Seligson, author of a book that appropriately defines the trend: "A Little Bit Married."

The article describes some factors driving the mentality: postponed adulthood, career challenges, heightened access to birth control.

It's all pretty accurate. But even though more of us are becoming "a little bit married," I can't imagine the lifestyle has gotten to the point where it's something people actually enjoy.

Yes, there's some freedom in not having to put a label on your relationship.

However, I think many people enter into a "little bit married" situation with at least a remote hope it will eventually progress into real marriage.

Despite its convenience, relationship limbo can be incredibly grating. And sadly, extended stay in "a little bit married" territory often lands you in the land of "a lot disappointed."

(Not everyone's living in romantic limbo. Ledger-Enquirer reporter Katie Holland recently got engaged, and now she's chronicling her wedding-planning adventures online. Follow her here.)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR.KING

 

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. would have turned 81 on January 15, 2010. Our nation honors our most prominent civil rights leaders every year on his birthday (observing the following Monday), making sure his “Dream” of service and equality for all races and creeds lives on.

What are you doing today to keep the dream alive?

 

Technorati Tags: Dr.King,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

 

DENZEL PLAYS ELI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This weekend, actor Denzel Washington will hit screens everywhere on a journey across a post-apocalyptic United States, protecting the last copy of a very important book – a very good book, if you will.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: denzel Washington,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

Golden Globes: Thanking your spouse

Sunday's Golden Globes didn't contain any acceptance speech shockers. Few honorees used the opportunity to bolster their shock value, or make a controversial political statement.

And nobody forgot to thank their significant other.

I think it's a little odd how much we expect celebrities to acknowledge that being married is a central part of winning best actress or best director.

Sean Penn didn't thank his wife while accepting a 2009 Oscar for his role in "Milk." He reportedly said they discussed the issue beforehand and decided it'd be better for him to use the air time to speak in favor of same-sex marriages. Robin Wright Penn filed for divorce a couple months later.

Also, we all remember how much criticism Hilary Swank got for forgetting to thank her husband after winning her first Oscar. They're divorced now.

On the surface, having a spouse doesn't directly bear on your ability to be a good actor, actress, journalist or whatever. If I won a big journalism award, I'd like to think it was a result of my own dedication and diligence -- not some guy holding my hand and patting my back along the way.

But at the same time, especially in artistic professions like acting, your personal happiness can directly affect your professional performance.

What's more, spouses who deal with those professions deserve at least a slight "thanks" for putting up with their significant other's erratic hours and lapses in inspiration.

Weigh in: Is thanking your spouse an acceptance speech "must"?

(For more Golden Globes info, check out my co-worker Dawn's excellent coverage here.)

What's going on this weekend?

Hey everybody! Here's your weekend lineup:

FRIDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

The Vault: Dueling Pianos, 10 p.m. $5. 706-507-1440.

Belloo’s: Big Woody And The Splinters, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

SoHo Bar & Grill: The Killing Ground, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and the Bizness, 9:30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Daileys: Zero 2 Sixty, 8 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

SATURDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

Daileys: Zero 2 Sixty, 8 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Belloo’s: Big Woody And The Splinters, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Buck-O-Five, Delilah Why, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

The Vault: Dueling Pianos, 10 p.m. $5. 706-507-1440.

The Loft: Tim Brantley, 9:30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Ask me anything

One of my most endearing (read: annoying) traits is my obsession with hearing stories.

When I feel comfortable enough with somebody, I'll utter this line about 596 times a day:

"Can you please tell me a story?"

Weird, I know.

Blame it on my inner journalist. I'm fascinated by people's backgrounds. I love analyzing a person's perception of his/her past. And I really believe your supply of stories is limitless -- the question is really how much of those you're willing to share with the rest of the world.

Anyway, my story fascination sparked when TresSugar directed me to Formspring, a new social networking site that lets users send and receive anonymous questions. For instance, I signed up this afternoon and got questions like this in my inbox:

What's one thing you own that you should probably throw away, but never will?

While Formspring hasn't quite reached Twitter's status, it highlights some interesting ideas.

Yes, the site reflects my generation's willingness to over-share, but its existence also suggests our real-life conversations are a little too one-sided.

Math and mojo

Want to know your chances of finding a perfect romantic match?

Choose carefully. You might not like the answer.

Here, Salon links to an interesting essay where a PhD candidate in economics uses an equation to determine his likelihood of finding a girlfriend.

He plugs in factors like age, location and education level.

The result? A 0.0000034 shot at success.

Then comes the follow-up: Theoretically, love's a little more complicated than that. You don't always fall for people who are your perfect matches on paper.

If I wrote down all my ideal qualities in a mate -- and demanded all future relationships adhered to that definition -- I'd probably end up with pretty poor odds.

The essay prompted some pretty interesting discussions, with people wondering how much you have to compromise your list of desired qualities to find a stable long-term relationship.

Thoughts?

What not to say

I couldn't resist linking to this list of 10 things your boyfriend never wants to hear.

Unfortunately, I'm guilty of many of the lines, namely "never mind."

We're all for gender equality here at the Walk of Shame, so it seems only fair to fire back with the 10 things your girlfriend never wants to hear. You can thank me later, guys.

1. "Is it that time of the month?"

2. "She's just a friend."

3. "What anniversary?"

4. "Did you bring your wallet?"

5. "I'm not a big marriage person."

6. "Do I have to shower?"

7. "Maybe you should wear something else."

8. "My ex-girlfriend used to always..."

9. "No, you can't stay for breakfast."

10. "Sorry, your dog isn't that cute."

Black Celebrity News: 1/14/10

• 

  Legendary R&B singer Teddy Pendergrass dead at 59

  By theGrio

  7:55 AM on 01/14/2010

  NEW YORK (AP) - Pendergrass, who had been one of the most electric and successful figures in music until a car crash 28 years ago left him in a wheelchair, has died of colon cancer...

  > MORE

• 

  Eagles fan slaps a woman wearing Romo jersey

  By theGrio

  8:58 AM on 01/13/2010

  VIDEO - Jamie Wert allegedly received a slap to the face simply for walking down the street wearing her beloved Cowboys sweatshirt on the eve of the bitter rivals' Wild Card showdown...

  > MORE

• 

  Usher burned by thieves: $1M in jewels, clothes stolen from star's SUV

  By theGrio

  2:58 PM on 01/12/2010

  Atlanta police say a thief stole $1 million in jewelry, clothing and other belongings from R&B singer Usher's SUV while he shopped last month...

  > MORE

• 

  Dungy questions if the NFL is benching diversity

  By theGrio

  9:45 AM on 01/12/2010

  Recent minority interviews for NFL coaching jobs in Washington and Seattle under the Rooney Rule have raised questions whether the spirit of the rule has been violated...

  > MORE

• 

  The NBA's top 10 ugliest moments

  By Glenn Minnis

  8:10 AM on 01/12/2010

  SLIDESHOW - Ostracized as he may now be, Gilbert Arenas is not alone. All the harebrained moves perpetrated by the All-Star guard over the last several days that have left him squarely in the crosshairs of NBA execs...

  > MORE

• 

  Tiger Woods Gatorade bottles found "mislabeled"

  By theGrio

  12:11 PM on 01/11/2010

  VIDEO - Shoppers at some Denver-area stores are finding Tiger Woods showing up on fake drink labels...

  > MORE

• 

  Does 'Avatar' have racist undertones?

  By theGrio

  9:22 AM on 01/11/2010

  PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Near the end of the hit film "Avatar," the villain snarls at the hero, "How does it feel to betray your own race?" Both men are white...

  > MORE

• 

  Mississippi Blues Trail honors jazz vocalist

  By theGrio

  7:15 AM on 01/09/2010

  Jazz vocalist Cassandra Wilson can easily explain why the Mississippi Blues Trail would embrace jazz artists...

  > MORE

• 

  KFC feels global heat over Australian ad

  By Cheo Tyehimba

  11:28 AM on 01/08/2010

  OPINION - Some black folks are upset by a controversial KFC ad that has many claiming the company is perpetuating racist stereotypes...

  > MORE

• 

  'Diff'rent Strokes' star Gary Coleman hospitalized

  By theGrio

  8:51 AM on 01/07/2010

  LOS ANGELES (AP) -- "Diff'rent Strokes" actor Gary Coleman is in a Los Angeles hospital after suffering what he believes was a slight seizure..

  > MORE

Video: American Idol Atlanta recap

Here's my newest "American Idol" video recap. It focuses on Atlanta auditions, including the catchy hit "Pants on the Ground" and the back stories of some Hollywood-bound contestants.

Want a full recap of the show? Check out my "Idol" blog here.

"American Idol" returns to Fox Tuesday with an episode featuring Chicago auditions.

WYCLEF TELLS HOW TO HELP VICTIMS OF EARTHQUAKE IN HAITI (IMAGES INCLUDED)

 

 

As the death toll continues to rise in Haiti, Wyclef continued his humanitarian efforts by speaking out publicly in an effort to encourage people across the world to donate to aid efforts. Read his statement and how you can help below

“Haiti today faced a natural disaster of unprecedented proportion, an earthquake unlike anything the country has ever experienced. The magnitude 7.0 earthquake – and several very strong aftershocks – struck only 10 miles from Port-au-Prince. I cannot stress enough what a human disaster this is, and idle hands will only make this tragedy worse. The over 2 million people in Port-au-Prince tonight face catastrophe alone. We must act now. President Obama has already said that the U.S. stands ‘ready to assist’ the Haitian people. The U.S. Military is the only group trained and prepared to offer that assistance immediately. They must do so as soon as possible. The international community must also rise to the occasion and help the Haitian people in every way possible.”

TO READ MORE CLICK HERE!

Technorati Tags: Wyclef Jean,Haiti,Natural disaster,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

KATT WILLIAMS TO BE ARRESTED….AGAIN

Katt Williams is in trouble with the law once again.

Katt currently has arrest warrants pending for him in Fulton County Georgia after police say he got into an altercation with a man.

That man, Derrion Powers, claims Katt hit him during an incident at an Atlanta hotel over money.
Powers also claims to have cell phone audio of the incident.

 

TTO READ MORE CLICK HERE!

Technorati Tags: Katt Williams,Derrion Powers,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

GILBERT ARENAS NEGOTIATES A PLEA BARGAIN

 

Washington Wizards player Gilbert Arenas and the U.S. Attorney are negotiating a plea bargain ... law enforcement sources tell TMZ.

Our sources say Arenas' lawyer and prosecutors are discussing a plea in which Arenas would cop to misdemeanor gun charges. We're told a deal hasn't been struck yet, but it could come as early as today.

Sources say the filing of charges would coincide with the plea, so it would all go down quickly. We do not know what they are discussing with respect to a sentence ... the prosecutor would recommend a sentence but ultimately it's the judge's decision
Read more:

 

TO READ MORE CLICK HERE

Technorati Tags: Gilbert Arenas,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

BEYONCE & JAYZ THE ULTIMATE POWER COUPLE

 

 

So, which entertainment power couple is making the most moolah?

Beyonce and Jay-Z, of course!

Bey and Jay brought home an astounding $122 million between June 2008 and June 2009, placing them waaaaaay ahead of the industry's #2 couple, Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart!

 

TO READ MORE CLICK HERE!

Technorati Tags: Beyonce,JayZ,Power Couple,black gossip,black celebrity gossip

CARMELO & LALA SET A DATE

 

5 years later, Carmelo & LaLa look to tie the knot!

NBA player Carmelo Anthony and his fiance LaLa Vazquez will be married this summer according to LaLa who announced the news on The Wendy Williams Show.

The former MTV veejay also revealed that her celeb friends like Kim Kardashian and Solange Knowles will be involved in the wedding which is looking like it's going to be pretty big.

CONGRATS!

 TO READ MORE CLICK HERE!

Technorati Tags: Carmelo Anthony,Lala,Black Gossip,Black celebrity gossip

Heidi Montag plastic surgery

Everybody's talking about a recent People magazine article in which "Hills" star Heidi Montag says she had 10 cosmetic surgery procedures in one day.

The procedures range from popular (Botox) to peculiar ("ears pinned back").

Growing up in California, I had early exposure to the plastic surgery world. I'll never forget when a friend of mine got a nose job as a JUNIOR HIGH graduation present.

Fortunately, my skimpy journalism salary makes it impossible for me to get any cosmetic work done, even if I desired it.

But on lonely nights, I always think what I'd do if I ended up marrying one of those rich old guys willing to pay for boob jobs with an ease usually confined to the McDonald's $1 menu.

As much as I'm leery of doing anything artificial to your body, there are certain tiny fixes I wouldn't mind. Then, however, I worry about getting addicted to the process and turning out like a "Real Housewives" reject.

Weigh in, male readers: How do you feel about a girl with plastic surgery? Would you ever go as far as helping your girlfriend/wife pay for it?

And ladies: Would you seek financial assistance from your man if you wanted a boob job?

JAY-Z, BAD GIRLS CLUB, OMARION’S NEW BOO, TREY-SONGZ & MORE

When Jay-Z and Swizz Beatz premiered their video for “On To The Next One” on New Year’s Eve the world was abuzz with rumors that the Jigga man was confirming rumors that he was in ties with an underground secret society.

 read more click here

Technorati Tags: Jay-Z,Swizz Beats,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

SHE SNAPPED ABOUT HER BURGER

Remember the girl we told you about last week who went buckwild and berserk in McDonalds over a burger order gone bad? Well snitches helped police catch her and now she’s been charged for an estimated three stacks worth of property damage.

 read more click here

Technorati Tags: Mcdonalds,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

 

MICHELLE FIRES MR.KNOWLES AS HER MANAGER

Matthew Knowles seems like he’s losing it all these days. Michelle Williams has finally smartened up and fired Matthew Knowles as her manager.

Michelle Williams: “After much prayer and consideration I have decided to part ways from my management team, Mathew Knowles

 read more click here

Technorati Tags: michelle williams,Mr.Knowles,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

OMARION & ROSA ACOSTA BOO’D UP

Omarion’s album release party went down at Club Element in NYC last night and he celebrated coupled up with Rosa Acosta, family and friends.

We guess that’s the only way to kick it when you get no industry love. More flicks of Omarion’s wack album release party under the hood.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: rosa acosta,omarion,album release party,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

THIS BAD GIRL IS NASTY FOR SPITTING ON HER ROOMMATE

The Bad Girlz Club is full of nothing but drama, drama and more drama. Remember Natalie Nunn, the girl who claim she slept with Chris Brown??? She was pissed because one of her roommates threw her stuff out the window. In retaliation, Natalie decides to spit in the girls face.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Natalie Nunn,black celebrity gossip,black gossip. The Bad Girlz Club

 

BRAYLON EDWARDS IS ON PROBATION

What more can go wrong for Braylon Edwards?? He’s a DEADBEAT dad, he rocks bedazzled shouldered and glittery a*s suits (see image above), AND he leads the NFL in dropped passes!!! Well, too bad for good ole Braylon, because now he’s on probation too:

 read more click here

Technorati Tags: Brylon Edwards,black celebrity gossip,black gossip,NFL

 

ZOE POSING FOR AVON

Zoe Saldana was photographed for Avon’s new fragrance “Eternal Magic” in NYC.

Flip the script if you’re interested seeing in more pics…

 Continue »

Technorati Tags: Zoe Saldana,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

 

NOW THEY SAY TREY IZ “GAY”

Bossip has learned that Trey Songz may be checking for more than ladies. Pop the top for the details.

 read more click here

Technorati Tags: Trey Songz,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

AIRPORT TERRORIST AGAIN

Despite evidence that ethnic profiling has yielded zero results in Europe, a recent poll showed Americans are in favor of more intensive security checks for people who fit a profile of terrorists based on age, ethnicity and gender. Keep reading to find out how popular opinion may soon shape your next visit to the airport.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Terrorist,black celebrity gossip,black gossip,POLITICS

 

Video: American Idol recap

FYI: "American Idol" premiered its ninth season Tuesday night, and my "Idol" blog is back in action. Access it here.

I'll also be posting video recaps of every episode on this blog. My first recap details the most memorable moments of Tuesday's Boston audition show.

Ideally, future installments will be posted directly after the show. I just encountered a few technical difficulties this week.

Enjoy, and stay tuned for another video recap tonight, when AI hits Atlanta!

Roxxxy robot girlfriend

I resisted this one for almost 24 hours, but the Internet buzz is now too big to ignore.

It's time to talk about Roxxxy the Sexbot.

She was recently unveiled at the AVN Adult Entertainment Expo in Las Vegas. She weighs 120 pounds and stands at 5 feet, 7 inches.

Is she worth her $7,000+ price tag?

Well, in addition to the obvious draw -- you know, the "sexbot" part -- she can also hold simple conversations and be programmed to hold a variety of different attributes and personality types.

Honestly, I'm a little intimidated.

Tell me, guys: What point of desperation -- if any -- would you have to hit to spend a night with Roxxxy?

SNL RACIST HUMOR…HAHA + DENZEL IS A YANKEE FAN

 

Charles Barkley enjoying playing the victim of racism on SNL.

Technorati Tags: Charles barkley,black celebrity gossip,black gossip,SNL

 

 

DENZEL A YANKEES FAN

 

 

Denzel simply on the Jay Leno Show supporting the Yankees, and has been all his life.

Technorati Tags: Denzel Washington,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

SADE IS BACK, RAY-J IS GAY & LLOYD BANKS GOT ARRESTED & MORE

Sade reunited in 2008 at Peter Gabriel’s Real World studio for the very first time after wrapping the Lover’s Rock tour in 2001. In a series of fortnightly recording sessions, they sketched out materials for a new album which, they all felt, was probably their most ambitious to date.

“I never want to repeat myself,” lead singer Helen Folasade Adu says. “And that becomes a more interesting challenge for us the longer we carry on together.”

Technorati Tags: sade,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

LlOYD BANKS ARRESTED

 

G Unit’s Lloyd Banks is now under police custody on assault and robbery charges after an incident that occurred Friday Night.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Lloyd banks,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

LLOYD BANKS BEAT THIS MAN UP

 

DANGER SAY “RAY-J IS GAY” SHE CALLS HIM “GAY-J”…LMAO

“Just tell everybody.  You like d*ck too.”

Apparently, Monica “Danger” Leon has become quite tiresome of everyone looking at her as the girl that smashed the homies.

After dealing with unnecessary promotion of her getting it in with Ray J's friends, with shirts to match, along with a publicized pregnancy that ended up not even being his child, Danger has chosen to speak out on her former lover and deliver another side to the singer that most were unaware of.

watch video click here

 

Technorati Tags: danger,ray-j,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

RIHANNA SAYS “I DONT HAVE HERPES..DAMN”

 

Rihanna says she’s pissed that people would even think to say such a thing and recently told a magazine that it’s not true. She says that the alleged cold sore isn’t even a sore it’s actually a scar.  She says :

It’s a f**king scar on my lip that’s been there every day of my life.

Technorati Tags: rihanna,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

CAPTION THIS: LEAVE A COMMENT

YES, President OBAMA GETS CAUGHT STARRING AT SOMETHING!

Technorati Tags: President Obama,Barack obama,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

FABULOUS & HIS BABY BOY

Fabulous and his son side by side, supposedly Fabulous is only interested in light skinned women, and he doesn’t like his ladies darker than a brown paper bag!!! JUST THROW YOUR BRAIN IN A BAG FAB!!!

Technorati Tags: Fabulous,black celebrity gossip,black gossip