Anita Baker Almost Went to Jail?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins 

Singing great Anita Baker barely missed going to jail Friday in a dispute with her ex-husband over music royalties. The 52-year old Baker found herself in a heated battle with Walter Bridgforth, her ex-husband, over the details of their divorce settlement.
"I'm so happy. ... I have never been in such a position before," Baker said in the hallway outside court. "And we don't intend to ever be in such a position ever again. I just wanna go home,and I'm happy to go home. ... As horrific as it could have been, it was lovely to feel supported, though, on the other end."
Baker was faced with a deadline Wednesday to sign documents that empower court-appointed music contract expert Howard Hertz to obtain information from record labels regarding how much Baker owed her ex-husband. The deadline passed and Baker still had not signed. This led to the Wayne County Chief Family Court Judge Lita Masini Popke ordering Baker to either show up in court on Friday or go to jail.

Click to read.

Ends Today! Save 20% at Gap!

Enter BBKG3ZLJ47HG at checkout.
To redeem in stores, present this email to the
cashier. Cashiers, please use reason code 885.
Offer ends today, February 27.

African American News from AOL – 2/25/10

SplitScreen - Tracy Morgan's 'IMPREGN8ED' feat. Jimmy Kimmel

• "30 Rock" and "Cop Out" star Tracy Morgan has turned his "somebody gon' pregnant" catchphrase ... Read More
• By BVX Staff on Feb 25th 2010 5:07PM | Comments (0)

Does She Talk Too Much?

• My wife talks too much. She goes non-stop. I don't even know what she's saying half the time ... Read More
• By Mason Jamal on Feb 25th 2010 5:02PM | Comments (1)

Maxine Waters' Concern for Homeowners is Not Dumb

• Okay, Rep Maxine Waters made an error. She mistook the fed's discount rate-- the rate at which the ... Read More
• By Jeff Mays on Feb 25th 2010 4:32PM | Comments (0)

Boston Celtic Marquis Daniels Wastes Money on Diamond Head?

• There has to be a line drawn somewhere when it comes to jewelry, doesn't there? In another story of ... Read More
• By Quibian Salazar-Moreno on Feb 25th 2010 3:43PM | Comments (0)

EA Sports Stands By Tiger, Gillette Unsure About Future

• Tiger Woods' apology last week may have helped to smooth over some aspects of his infidelity, ... Read More
• By Quibian Salazar-Moreno on Feb 25th 2010 3:39PM | Comments (0)

PETA Uses Tiger's Sex Scandal for Promotion

• While there is some debate about whether Tiger Woods' recent public apology was sufficiently ... Read More
• By Ericka Blount Danois on Feb 25th 2010 2:32PM | Comments (0)

Obama Health Care Summit Will Yield Little

• It wasn't exactly the political dog and pony show some critics predicted, but don't look ... Read More
• By Paul Shepard on Feb 25th 2010 2:22PM | Comments (2)

Secretary Arne Duncan Talks HBCU Funding, Early Childhood Ed and Loan Repayment Programs

• Last May, President Barack Obama's education budget reduced funding given to HBCUs by $85 ... Read More
• By Ericka Blount Danois on Feb 25th 2010 12:11PM | Comments (2)

Melanie Fiona's 'It Kills Me': The Desperate, Pathetic Woman's Anthem

• I know sometimes we are all a sucker for a good beat, a nice melody and a sweet voice. A ... Read More
• By Jam Donaldson on Feb 25th 2010 11:31AM | Comments (56)

Vogue Italia launches Black and Plus-Size Sites

• Vogue Italia proves its at the head of a progressive movement, recently launching websites ... Read More
• By Claire Sulmers on Feb 25th 2010 11:29AM | Comments (0)

Board Members With Display Name Issues

• Have you visited the new message boards but experienced issues with your display name upon log in? ... Read More
• By TiffaniLW on Feb 25th 2010 11:13AM | Comments (0)

Guilty Plea in Katrina Police Shootings

• At first, the story of police shooting unarmed people looking for food in the wake of the ... Read More
• By Paul Shepard on Feb 25th 2010 10:46AM | Comments (1)

Al Sharpton Versus Tavis Smiley on Black Agenda

• Kevin Eason is a freelance editorial cartoonist and Illustrator from New Jersey. His brand of ... Read More
• By Kevin Eason on Feb 25th 2010 10:30AM | Comments (1)

Man Who Allegedly Threw Baby From Bridge Charged With Murder

• Shamsid-Din Abdur-Raheem of New Jersey was charged Wednesday with murder for allegedly throwing ... Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Feb 25th 2010 9:38AM | Comments (2)

News Blast: Health Care Summit to Take Place Today, Alleged War Crimes Leader Facing Deportation

• Health Care Summit to Take Place Today Today President Barack Obama will hold his televised ... Read More
• By Abena Agyeman-Fisher on Feb 25th 2010 9:17AM | Comments (0)

Don't Bring Home a White Boy

A recent book has reignited discussions about interracial dating.

At issue: Karyn Langhorne Folan's "Don't Bring Home a White Boy: And Other Notions That Keep Black Women From Dating Out." Folan urges black women to date outside their race.

Here's an excerpt from a recent Washington Post article about the book:

"Black women are in market failure," says writer Karyn Langhorne Folan. "The solution is to find a new market for your commodity. And in this case, we are the commodity and the new market is men of other races."

Naturally, "Don't Bring Home a White Boy" has attracted its share of criticism.

Some people argue that even though the book purports to promote interracial relationships, its existence alone is a step in the wrong direction. Here's a line from Gawker:

Should black ladies date people who are not black? The year now is 1955. Oh, it's not?

Weigh in: Does interracial dating still carry a stigma? And if so, is that stigma any worse in Columbus?

Seasonal nightlife

Need proof the planetary alignment is shifting? Sky Nightclub in Columbus is hosting its first bikini contest.

No, I won't be participating. I haven't shaved my legs in three months.

But the contest's existence alone reminds us that summer nightlife is (kind of) on the horizon.

I, for one, am psyched.

I know, I know. Temperature-wise, things could be worse. Still, even moderately cold temperatures have tremendous potential to hamper nightlife plans.

My least favorite obstacle: deciding whether you should wear your coat and have it bask in cigarette smoke at the bar, or leave it in the car and endure a freezing bare-shouldered walk to your hot spot of choice.

Then again, summer partying carries its own set of concerns, like your best friend's unfortunate affinity for the bare midriff look. Oh yeah, you also have to pull that dusty shaving razor out of hibernation.

Weigh in: Are you ready for summer nightlife, or could you deal with a few more months of argyle?

Joe Simpson & John Mayer

The celebrity rumor mill says Jessica Simpson's dad, Joe, called John Mayer for a "man to man" chat after Mayer's infamous Playboy interview.

Strange? Yes. Sweet? A little, actually.

Everyone knows the image of a dad guarding his teenage daughter's dating life with the family shotgun. But that kind of parental concern often lasts well beyond high school.

After one of my especially bad breakups, my mom got all excited about sending an anonymous online instant message to my former fling.

I didn't take her up on the offer, but I appreciated her concern. Years had passed since I first navigated the world of boy/girl dances. But it was nice to know Mom was still my ally on the romantic battlefield.

And yes, even as I approach 30, I still have many friends whose dads greet their dates with the family shotgun.

Weigh in: Are you ever too old for your parents to jump to your dating defense?

The Cute Couple

They wear color-coordinated getups. Have a seemingly endless supply of inside jokes. Resolve fights via poetry.

They are The Cute Couple. And you hate them.

After reading this Glamour blog post about couples envy, and watching a recent "How I Met Your Mother" episode devoted to a similar idea, I started thinking about the couples who aspire to attain a position previously reserved for Donna and David from "Beverly Hills, 90210."

They shell out relationship advice as if they've already spent 50 years together.

Outsiders, meanwhile, don't know what to say.

On one hand, The Cute Couple restores your faith in love -- illustrating how ideals can, in fact, become a daily reality.

On the other hand, The Cute Couple makes you want to give up on relationships. They've already hogged all the romantic perfection our universe offers, you reason.

So you budget your time with The Cute Couple carefully, bidding them farewell the instant their shared glances transform from gaga to gross.

Weigh in: Have you ever secretly tried to gain Cute Couple status?

ROBERT PATTINSON IS CALLING BLACK PEOPLE NEGROS, SNOOP IS IN THE DOGG HOUSE WITH IRS, AND MORE

Interviewer: Rob, did you know that every time you say actor or acting you lower your voice to a whisper?
Rob: ((He’s genuinely startled.)) “I do?”

Interviewer: Yes, so quietly it’s like you’re saying Negro.

Rob: ((He laughs, lightens up.)) “What if we were ‘acting’ like ‘Negroes’? Then we’d be f**ked—we couldn’t hear anything. . . .”

 

Technorati Tags: Robert pattinson,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

 

Harvard University Names Wyclef Jean “Artist Of The Year”

His humanitarian efforts must have helped Wyclef Jean gain Artist of the Year honors from Harvard University, because his bleating like a goat on “We Are The World 25 For Haiti,” sure didn’t do much for us.

Technorati Tags: wyclef Jean,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

read more click here

 

Jay-Z & NY Governor Paterson Are Under Federal Investigation

Governor Paterson and Jay-Z have become quite close and are starting to mix business with pleasure. Even though Governor Paterson is quick to tell you that his boy Jay-Z “Got His Back”, the federal government isn’t trying to hear that.

Jay-Z and Governor Paterson are under federal investigation for the multibillion-dollar racino venture at Aqueduct Ractrack and AEG’s

read more click here

Technorati Tags: jay-z. black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

SUGE KNIGHT SOLD ALL HIS VALUABLES

 

Suge Knight' problems with money and bills are continuing to add up.

As previously reported, Suge was set to be taken to court by one of the mothers of his children who allege that he owed her for back child support payments.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: suge knight,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

SNOOP OWES 600K TO THE IRS

It seems that in the process of delivering so much Malice last year, rapper Snoop Dogg may have forgot to take care of some of his financial priorities as the IRS is coming after the Doggfather.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Snoop Dogg,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

LIL WAYNE JOINED TWITTER RIGHT BEFORE THE LOCK DOWN

Lil' Wayne has decided to officially join the Twitter club.

Just 7 days before checking in to serve his one year prison stint at New York's Rikers Island, Lil Wayne joined the uber popular social media website under the tweet name @LilTuneChi.

The Young Money CEO had been able to fight the urge to follow after countless celebs who feel the need to tweet their every move until Sunday (February 21) when the prison bound MC tweeted:

“im super new to this twitter shit but wudup tho !..........follow me biot¢h..........wudup mak......happy bday LO......8 days of freedom..ym”

read more click here

Technorati Tags: lil wayne,blalck celebrity gossip,black gossip

30 Chick Flicks in 30 Days

When it comes to pop culture, is what you watch reflective of who you are?

Let's hope the answer is no, especially since I had a serious case of Kardashian addiction last weekend.

Anyway, the question hit me after I stumbled upon a blog that chronicles one guy's efforts to watch 30 chick flicks in 30 days.

It's an attempt to understand the opposite sex.

I can see underlying relationship lessons in "(500) Days of Summer," or even "Sex and the City," but Lindsay Lohan's "Labor Pains"? Really?!?

Sadly, that is a real entry in the list.

I appreciate the blogger's openness to genres other than the traditional action-adventure material.

At the same time, I think it's fair to say that not only chick flicks highlight truths about the opposite sex.

In fact, sometimes we learn the greatest relationship lessons from movies that aren't overtly romantic. (And yes, I am trying to justify my "Kung Fu Panda" obsession.)

Weigh in: Have chick flicks taught you anything about love?

(via Broadsheet)

Old Man Gone Wild: White Old man beats down black man on bus

Click to Play

Old Man Gone Wild:

Dating: A family affair?

You and your sister have shared secrets, purses and sweaters. So it's only natural to have nearly identical dating histories.

Creepy? Kind of.

Here, TresSugar asks an interesting question: Have you ever dated the same person as your sibling?

Fortunately, I've never had to deal with the issue, since my sister and I are eight years apart.

But I've seen many cases where a guy jumps between sisters, or a girl jumps between brothers. And strangely enough, some of those relationships actually worked.

I guess the concept sorta makes sense. You know your ex well. You know your sibling well. So you fix them up. What could possibly go wrong?

Um, nothing...unless you count insecurities and deep-seated childhood jealousy issues.

Plus, I've always put guys who jump between sisters on the same level as guys who always get their girlfriends from the same group of friends. (I'm talking to you, Slade Smiley.)

Fortunately, as opposed to some circles of friends, it often seems as if siblings have completely opposite romantic tastes -- or at least pretend that's the case.

Weigh in: When it comes to dating, is your sibling's ex off limits?

Black News: Marley Family Livid Over New Book Release

Bob Marley is embroiled in a fiery debate with a Las Vegas-based publisher over alleged unauthorized changes to the cover and title of his recently released memoir which threatens to taint the near-perfect image of reggae music royalty, the Marleys.
Ky-Mani Marley, a Grammy Award-nominated reggae and hip-hop artist, penned "Dear Dad: Where's the family in our family, today?'' which was released this month by Farrah Gray Publishing in celebration of Marley's 65th birthday.
The issue between author and publisher lies mainly in the extra coverline: "The Story The Marley Family Apparently Doesn't Want You To Know.''
In an online statement, Ky-Mani says the caption is unauthorized: "I did NOT authorize him to make any changes to the cover of my book, nor do I condone any of the captions he has written!''
Further, Ky-Mani told The Gleaner, a Jamaican newspaper, that he was considering legal action against the Gray, saying he simply wanted to tell his story without causing any conflict. He told the newspaper the title was changed from "Dear Dad: The Marley Son Who Persevered From The Streets To Prominence."
But Dr. Farrah Gray, the publisher, stands by the book, saying he worked with Marley every step of the way. He said that Marley wrote the book using a ghostwriter and the interviews were recorded.
"I didn't write his book,'' Gray told BV on Books. "I published it. He did the final edit. Now he's issuing a statement that he didn't approve it...for those of us who believe in one love, Ky-Mani Marley's story deserves light. He's throwing me under the bus and going on a smear campaign, but I have the tapes. The tapes are worse and he doesn't want those publicized.''

 

Click to read.

What's going on this weekend?

Hey everybody! Here's your roundup of nightlife events:

Quick Friday highlight: The Charles S. Harrison American Legion Post 35, 3361 North Lumpkin Road, will host a Mardi Gras Party. Dinner will be served 6-8 p.m. Home-cooked German food and pot roast will be on the menu. Karaoke will begin at 8 p.m. Door Prizes. 706-687-0788.

FRIDAY

SoHo Bar & Grill: Eleven Standing Still, Sum Ever After, 10 p.m. free. 706-568-3316.

The Vault: Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. $5.

Daileys: Ophir Drive, 8 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Flip Flops: Pistoltown, 9 p.m.

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

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.

SATURDAY

SoHo Bar & Grill: Neal Lucas Band, 10 p.m. free. 706-568-3316.

The Vault: Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. $5.

Daileys: Ophir Drive, 8 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

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

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

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

Gifts and shared finances

Do shared finances have any effect on gift-giving between you and your partner?

Being unmarried, I never thought about the question until my co-worker Dawn wrote a recent column about the way shared finances impact her perception of Valentine's Day.

Then, on a kinda-related note, one of my favorite bloggers just wrote a post about how she's financially contributing to her own engagement ring.

She and her boyfriend already live together and share a variety of expenses, so why shouldn't they share the cost of an engagement ring?

With engagement rings, even if you're not directly sharing in the cost, you often end up indirectly sharing the cost when you merge your finances. You know, if you think about it practically.

But then again, I think there's something to be said for occasionally NOT thinking about things practically when it comes to shared finances.

Otherwise, you risk losing the "you bought that for ME?" awe that makes relationships so magical sometimes.

Thoughts?

TODAY: TIGER WOODS APOLOGIZES

When Woods finished, he hugged his mother and she whispered in his ear.

"I said 'I'm so proud of you. Never think you stand alone. Mom will always be there for you and I love you,'" Kultida Woods said.

Admitting he felt he "deserved to enjoy the temptations" that came with his fabulous success, Woods said he is solely responsible for his actions. "I am deeply sorry for my irresponsible and selfish behavior," Woods said.

Woods said he was in treatment for 45 days and will return for more therapy, adding he has more work to do to resolve his personal problems.

read more click here

watch video click here

Technorati Tags: Tiger Woods,Conference,black celebrity gossip,black gossip,Sex attic,sex therapy,Golf,Tiger woods

WANDA SYKES GET AN AWARD, DRAKE GETS TURNED DOWN BY SADE, AND VANITY FAIR AINT FAIR

GLAAD announced Thursday that Sykes will receive the Stephen F. Kolzak Award which is presented to an openly LGBT media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equal rights.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Wanda Sykes,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

VANITY FAIR DID OUR GIRL PRECIOUS WRONG

The foldout photo features nine young starlets to keep an eye on, but excludes Sidibe, whose youth and Oscar nomination should have made her a no-brainer to be included. Adding to the controversy is the fact that all of the chosen actresses are white and thin.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: precious,gabourey sidibe,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

ANGELA DIDNT MAKE THE CUT FOR IDOL, AND LIFE HAS BEEN HARD

A third time was not the charm for “American Idol” contestant Angela Martin.

While dealing with the emotions surrounding her mother, who has been missing since the day after Christmas, the Chicago singer was given the news that she would not be among the top 24 despite her third time auditioning. [Watch footage above]

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Angela Martin,American Idol,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

Eubanks still May be around the Jay Leno Show

After reports surfaced earlier this week that Kevin Eubanks would be leaving his gig as Jay Leno’s bandleader when the “Tonight Show” returns in March, the musician took to his Twitter page to clarify.

“I’ll still be around on the show, but less as of now. I’ll tweet when a definite plan is set,” he posted Thursday.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Jay Leno Show,Kevin Eubanks,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

SADE AINT TRYING TO WORK WITH DRAKE

Well all that sounds good Mr. Drake, but unfortunately, as Grandma used to say, Sade ain’t studying you. Actually it’s nothing personal, she just doesn’t do collabos.

“I don’t think they have contacted me,” Sade, 51, told Canada’s National Post. “I’ve never collaborated because I’ve always avoided working outside my safety zone – I can be exactly who I am and can fail or succeed within the moment. I feel safe working like I do. I wouldn’t want to work in a situation where I am expected to deliver, because I think I wouldn’t deliver.”

read more click here

Technorati Tags: drake,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

RAVEN SYMONE TRIPPING WITH WENDY WILLAIMS

Raven’s got a message for all those bloggers and writers who love to talk smack, and she shared it on the Wendy Williams Show.

Check out the clip to watch the fabulous duo chat about Raven’s role as an icon with the multi-cultural women’s empowerment movement, Pepsi We Inspire.

Technorati Tags: wendy williams,black celebrity gossip,black gossip,Raven Symone

The Oasis, RIP?

I was sad to recently see a "For Rent" sign at The Oasis on Broadway.

The downtown Columbus hot spot at 1107 Broadway has seen three incarnations since I moved here just over three years ago.

First, it was martini bar Savana's. Then, 20-something dance spot Rumors. Finally, its most recent form: The Oasis, which boasted a sports bar atmosphere and served food.

And now, it's vacant again.

I started fearing for The Oasis in early January, when the bar posted a MySpace update that included a word that's often the beginning of the end in the nightclub world: "renovations." What started off as "temporarily closed" seems to have evolved into "out of business."

Honestly, I'll miss The Oasis. My work crew and I often went there for lunch -- no alcohol, of course -- and the experience was always unique. Few things rival the culinary experience of savoring french fries enhanced by island dust and eau de cigarettes.

The food was really good, actually. And the nighttime vibe wasn't bad, either. Sure, maybe The Oasis' lack of flair did it in. But I'd rather have a low-key hangout than another empty Broadway storefront.

To memorialize the venue, I've included a photo of The Oasis' signature fishbowl of alcohol. Yes, I did try it with a partner. One of us had dinner before the experience, one of us didn't. Who do you think came out on top?

Weigh in: What kind of hot spot should replace The Oasis?

Engagements & intimidation

You're convinced your guy is ready to propose. He just needs a little, um, "push."

So you make up a secret admirer. Threaten to leave the relationship. Maybe fake a pregnancy.

No big deal, right? Hmm.

Six in 10 brides have used "dirty tricks" to get an engagement ring, according to survey results published here. Those tricks include all the methods I just mentioned. (via Jezebel)

Honestly, I'm a little embarrassed for my entire gender after reading the article. Although I do admit occasionally embellishing stories to increase their potential for jealousy.

The bottom line: If a guy's only popping the question because of a dirty trick, your relationship will likely suffer later.

Weigh in, married readers: Did you pull any dirty tricks en route to your engagement?

(Ledger-Enquirer reporter Katie Holland got engaged without pulling any dirty tricks...unless you count the vampire games she learned from her "Twilight" obsession. Read her wedding blog here.)

HOLYFIELD VISITS DR.PHIL, RHIANNA HAS A NEW MOVIE ROLE, NAS GOES IN ON KELIS, AND MORE

Holyfield and his wife seeks marriage canceling from DR.PHIL.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: evander holyfield,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

RIHANNA PLAYS VANITY ROLE IN “LAST DRAGON” REMAKE

 

*Rihanna has reportedly been cast in the upcoming remake of “The Last Dragon,” Berry Gordy’s 1985 cult film about a teenaged martial arts student.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: rihanna,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

 

TIGER WOODS WILL HOST PRESS CONFERENCE ON FRIDAY

 

The Associated Press is reporting that Woods will speak to a small group of reporters at 11 a.m. Friday from the clubhouse of the TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., home of the PGA Tour.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: tiger woods,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

SADE GOES GOLD FIRST WEEK

 

It’s official – Sade’s new album “Soldier of Love” has debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart and has reached gold status in only its first week of sales.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: sade,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

Ashanti working on her own IDOL SHOW

Ashanti is reportedly set to produce and host her own version of “American Idol” that will likely seek talent for her new record label.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: ashanti,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

NAS GOES HARD ON KELLIS IN HIS NEW SONG

 

An upcoming song from Nas includes lyrics that accuse his ex-wife Kelis of infidelity.

 

read more click here

Technorati Tags: Nas,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

Dr. Boyce: Russell Simmons Rants on Banks

by Dr. Boyce Watkins 

Hip hop mogul Russell Simmons seems to feel that banks are not treating the poor in a proper fashion. This week, in a rant on his site, “The Global Grind,” Simmons had this to say:
“They trick customers into doing things that are not good for them through lack of transparency, and surprise them with new fees when they can least afford it. I’m learning an important lesson about ethics or lack of ethics in this industry. In fact, I’m fighting with a bank right now that doesn’t know what kind of ass whipping they are going to get when I expose them for the abusive practices and exuberant fees they are charging the poor. What they are doing is trying to double their already outrageously high fees in exchange for providing absolutely nothing to my customers.”
Simmons went on to try to create a “movement” by adding a call to action:

“Let’s start the biggest public discussion ever about how banks treat us and expose these banks for their unequal treatment and unconscionable conduct. The time is now.”

 

Click to read.

Spanx for Men

Hey guys: Want to lose that beer gut? Shell out $58.

That's the average price of the new male variety of Spanx, the figure-trimming shapewear that has traditionally been marketed toward women.

But now, men can share in the "appearances can be deceiving" fun, too.

The company is offering a line of undershirts that promise to flatten your stomach and firm your chest, among other things.

Here, Salon offers a handy set of tips for the male Spanx virgin.

The garment hardly rivals the dating discomfort that women encounter while wearing a traditional girdle...or even a Wonderbra.

Still, I find a little satisfaction in knowing that some guys will experience the "what happens when I talk this off?" awkwardness that's previously been reserved for female appearance-altering accessories.

In relationships, are asset-enhancers like Wonderbras and Spanx ever dealbreakers?

Brody Jenner & Avril Lavigne

"That is the most random relationship ever."

When you're on the receiving end of that line, how do you respond?

Maybe, "Thanks, I appreciate your vote of confidence."

Sure, your relationship could be called something worse than "random." But still, the label isn't exactly an endorsement for your romantic future.

I thought about it after reading recent online chatter about a rumored romantic relationship between singer Avril Lavigne and "Hills" star Brody Jenner.

Same goes for my reaction to gossip about a tryst between Jessica Simpson and Billy Corgan.

The "random" label isn't confined to celebrity ties. Many real-life relationships get the dubious distinction, a result of everything from an age gap to seemingly insurmountable lifestyle differences.

With bright eyes and a smile, you tell your best friend you've changed your romantic status. Her enthusiastic response: "That is so random."

It's not necessarily reassuring, but randomness doesn't doom a relationship.

Right?

Video recap: American Idol Top 24

Check out my newest "American Idol" video recap, where you'll learn which seven singers in the Top 24 were announced Tuesday night.

The remaining singers will be announced during Wednesday's episode, which airs 9-10 p.m. on Fox.

As usual, get more news and gossip on my "Idol" blog here.

Mardi Gras parties

Hey everybody! Here's the list of local Mardi Gras parties. I'll update if necessary.

Start your night with these dinner options:

*Meritage Cafe, 1350 13th Street, hosts “A Taste of New Orleans.” The dinner buffet features gumbo, red beans and rice, shrimp and grits and more. The $29.95 meal is available 5:30-8:30 p.m. Reservations required. 706-327-0707.

*Cafe Le Rue, 2523 Airport Thruway, will offer appetizers on the house in addition to its regular Cajun menu. Hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 706-507-5851.

*Enjoy Creole-style entrees at Broadway restaurant Downstairs At The Loft, 1032 Broadway. Action starts at 5 p.m. Party continues at nightclub upstairs. Expect beads, giveaways, entertainment. 706-596-8141.

Here are some bar scene highlights for the 21 and older crowd. All of these parties have no cover charge.

*SoHo Bar & Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, hosts a party with beads, karaoke and Cajun-style food beginning at 9 p.m.

*The Shanty Shack, 4475 Warm Springs Road, has entertainment from house band DixieMafiaa plus giveaways. Party starts at 7 p.m.

*Flip Flops, 1111 Broadway, has beads, DJ music and drink specials beginning at 7 p.m.

*The bar at La Margarita, 5300 Sidney Simons Blvd., has a costume party with beads and DJ music. Action starts at 8 p.m.

*Belloo’s, 900 Front Ave., offers beads and drink specials beginning at 5 p.m.

*New hot spot Spicoli’s Sports Bar & Grill, 5762 Milgen Road, hosts a party with dance music. Bar opens at 3 p.m.

The un-matchmaker

Picture a world where you'll never again have to say, "It's not you, it's me." Even better, your conversation repertoire will be entirely devoid of this line: "Can we still be friends?"

Intrigued? Hire a separation agent.

Here, The Independent describes a German service that lets you hire somebody to take care of a breakup's dirty work. Pay a fee and a messenger will knock on your lover's door and end the relationship.

It's not the first time I've heard of a middle man's involvement in a breakup.

I've read about Web sites and phone services that will contact your significant other and drop the breakup bomb.

Would I ever go that route? Probably not. It's impersonal and cowardly. Not to mention the fact that you can only avoid your former lover for so long. Unless you want a mediator to handle the stuff swap, too.

(via Jezebel)

Valentine's Day in the doghouse

So...I got dressed up, spent 45 minutes on my hair and squeezed into an extra-small dress for Valentine's Day dinner. Strangely, I came away from the night with absolutely no photos.

I did, however, take more than a dozen photos of my dog in the snow. Looks like we know who REALLY holds my heart. (Just kidding, honey!)

REMAKE: WE ARE THE WORLD

MAGIC BUYING EBONY MAGAZINE

According to published reports, Magic Johnson is in talks to purchase Johnson Publishing Co., owner of Ebony and Jet, magazines.

read more click here

Technorati Tags: magic johnson,black celebrity gossip,black gossip,EBONY,JET

What's going on this weekend? V-Day edition

Happy Valentine's Day weekend! I can't believe I'm typing this while snow falls in Georgia. Crazy.

Quick warning, guys: "It's snowing" is not an acceptable excuse for skipping out on V-Day gifts.

Now that we got that out of the way, here are some cool Valentine's options regardless of your relationship status.

FRIDAY

*There's a Valentine's Day date auction at Mario's, 1010 Broadway. Action starts at 10 p.m. Proceeds benefit Haiti earthquake relief.

*Friday, Fife and Drum at the National Infantry Museum hosts speed dating. Registration is $20 and starts at 4 p.m., action starts at 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY

*Spend a romantic night at downtown hot spot Belloo's, 900 Front Ave. The bar offers a $20 champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries special. Expect entertainment from Claiborne & Friends. Cover is $5.

*Flip Flops, 1111 Broadway, hosts a Cupid's Ball with music by J-Mack and Jasper 3. Action starts at 9 p.m.

*Journey tribute act Chain Reaction performs at The Roadhouse, 1047 Broadway. Cover is $5. Doors open at 9 p.m.

*Listen to some bluegrass tunes from the Packway Handle Band at The Loft, 1032 Broadway. Action starts at 9:30 p.m. and cover is $5.

SUNDAY

*Naturally, tons of restaurants are having Valentine's specials. Check out our roundup here.

*Looking for an alternative to the traditional Valentine's dinner? Try brunch. I recommend trekking to Auburn for brunch at Ariccia. Trust me, this place is phenomenal.

Sunday's brunch is noon-3 p.m. EST and costs $17.96 per person. Ariccia is at 241 South College St., Auburn. Reservations recommended. 334-844-5140.

Do Ya Think I'm Sexy?

Wait, don't answer that. This post's headline is only designed to inform you that Billboard has named its 50 Sexiest Songs, based on performance on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Topping the list: Olivia Newton-John's "Physical." Read the full list here.

After reading the entries, I felt like I needed a shower...or at least a time machine to take me back to my high school dances, where many of the songs were played.

Other tunes on the list include Boyz II Men's "I'll Make Love To You," R. Kelly's "Bump 'N Grind" and "Too Close" by Next.

Not impressed? You'll feel better after learning "Smack That," a tune by Akon featuring Eminem, made No. 25.

Weigh in: What's your pick for the sexiest song?

Valentines Day, No Shame style

Your boyfriend stands in front of a 200-person crowd, ready to recite a self-penned monologue that could result in public humiliation.

And strangely, you're kind of turned on.

Welcome to the No Shame date.

I recently chatted with Jens Rasmussen, director of the No Shame Theater program in Columbus. He reminded me that No Shame is a good date night activity for Valentine's Day weekend.

Quick primer: No Shame is held every Friday at 10:30 p.m. in the Springer Opera House (enter on First Avenue). It lets you showcase original works in a casual setting.

The first 15 acts to sign up get a five-minute slot. Pieces must be original, and entry is $5. Open to guests 18 and older.

Tired of traditional date activities? Give No Shame a shot, Rasmussen said.

"I think it's perfect," he said. "It's a looser, less formal environment than a restaurant or even a movie."

You'll see material -- everything from monologues to dance -- that will lessen your chances of awkward silences, Rasmussen promised.

"It gives people a place to start conversations that are really interesting and stimulating," he said.

Plus, I think there's something to be said for learning your otherwise bashful date is brave enough to participate in something like No Shame. Even if he is reciting a poem inspired by "Family Guy."

Check out No Shame's Facebook page here.

Video: American Idol Hollywood recap

Here's my newest "American Idol" video recap. You'll learn about the Hollywood group round, as well as the serious lack of creativity illustrated by groups' names. (Team Awesome? Really?!?)

Get more "Idol" news by following my blog here.

WEEZY NOT GOING IN UNTIL MARCH, BEYONCE IN BRAZIL, HAITI LAP DANCES AND MORE….

LAP DANCES FOR HAITI….WOW

Wow. Well at least they are assisting in the relief efforts for Haiti:

A strip club in Ohio has raised $1,000 for Haitian earthquake relief during what was billed as “Lap dances for Haiti.”

 Continue »

Technorati Tags: Haiti,earthquake,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

 

BOBBI KHRISTIANA KICKIN IT

You won’t believe where we found Bobbi Kristina last weekend.  Pop the top for details. Continue »

Technorati Tags: Bobbi Kristiana,Whitney Houston,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

 

BEYONCE AND ALICIA IN BRAZIL

Beyonce joined Alicia Keys on set in Brazil for the video for their duet “Put It In A Love Song”. Alicia’s shots were filmed near the historic Jesus Christ The Redeemer statue, but most of Bey’s shots were set on a bus. Pop the hood for more shots of BeyBey and A.Keys

 Continue »

Technorati Tags: Beyonce Knowles,alicia keys,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

LIL WAYNE FREE AS A BIRD TIL MARCH

It looks like Lil Wayne will have some more time to spend with the free world as his sentence has been postponed until March 2. For more details

Continue

Technorati Tags: Lil Wayne,black celebrity,black gossip

 

USHER AND POLOW DA DON KICKING IT FOR THE SUPER BOWL

Usher and Polow da Don were seen in Miami at Mansion during the Superbowl weekend.  But all we want to know is out of the two stallions…

Technorati Tags: Black celebrity gossip,black gossip,Usher,Polow da don

 

ALICIA KEYS ON SET

We spotted these pics of Alicia Keys shooting a video for “Put It In A Love Song” in Brazil. If we hadn’t seen pics of her in a bikini this morning we’d swear Swizzy dropped a lil Beatz in her belly. Pop the hood for more pics along with video of Alicia and duet partner Beyonce

Continue »

Technorati Tags: Alicia Keys,black celebrity gossip,black gossip

 

NICK AND MARIAH LOOKING TO ADOPT

According to sources, Mariah and Nick are looking to have a child in the next two months even if it means adopting.  Hell if Trina can adopt a Haitian child why wouldn’t they be qualified? Pop the top for the details.

Continue »

Technorati Tags: Black celebrity gossip,Mariah carey,Nick Cannon,black gossip

 

 

FAITH EVANS NEW REALITY SHOW

Faith is trying to make a comeback and has a new reality tv show and album on the way.  More details on the flipside.

Continue »

Technorati Tags: P.Diddy,Faith Evans,black celebrity gossip,black gossip