out town: April 2008

HELLO ALL!

MA'ATOLOGY HERE GIVIN YAWL THE NEWZ FOR THIS WEEK

I KNOW YAWL WERE WAITING FOR IT LIKE THEM STIMULUS PACKAGES. LOL

HERRE"S WHASSUP.
It was announced at St. Louis City Hall Tuesday that this summer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is expected to bring 40,000 delegates and church members from around the world to St. Louis, making it the city's largest convention this year.Mayor Francis Slay announced the gathering at a news conference in his office with about a dozen leaders of the predominantly African-American denomination.The city estimates the AME convention July 4-11 at America's Center will bring in $30 million. Bishop John Bryant, leader of the AME Church's district that includes St. Louis, said the decision to hold the church's largest convention in the city was made in 2000 and ratified in 2004. Bryant said there are about 40 AME churches in the area. The church, with about 2 million members worldwide, meets every four years to enact laws, assign bishops and review its policies.The convention comes at a time of heightened tension between Slay and African-American leaders over last year's ouster of Fire Chief Sherman George, the first African-American to lead the department. The mayor's critics have called for an economic boycott, and the National Society of Black Engineers had said it would reconsider holding its 2011 convention in St. Louis.Bryant said the AME Church had already signed contracts that would have resulted in "a loss of millions" if it moved the convention to another city.

"This is great news for St. Louis: 40,000 people will stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, shop in our stores, and visit our attractions," St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay wrote on his blog posted Tuesday. "But, it is important for another reason, too. The AME church -- nationally and locally -- has a reputation for addressing important social issues. This will be an opportunity for us to have some important and powerful conversations together."

Naysayers ain’t feelin that.

Hmm, we guess Anthony Shaheed wasnt invited to the press conference. We are sure, as the days grow shorter when the conference come around that protestors will be picketing in front of the America's center and wont be surprised to see brothas wearinf KKK uniforms leading it!.....................................There was gas main break also on Tuesday during rush hour on Clayton Road shutting down traffic as a precaution and detouring it to adjacent streets. But today, Wednesday, Clayton Road is back open after a gas main break shut it down this afternoon. I-64 construction crews dug too deep and ruptured a gas main.................In other road news, transportation officials are urging drivers to avoid Hanley Road at Interstate 64 this week. The Hanley overpass will be down to one lane in each direction today and possibly Thursday. A Gateway Constructors spokesman said workers will replace the bridge next year as part of the freeway overhaul, but the road needs to be kept safe for drivers until then. Drivers should use Brentwood Blvd. or Big Bend Rd. during the resurfacing project.......................The STL are mourning the death of and he speedy recovery for two kids on who were on a bike in the Ville area in North St. Louis. The two kids were struck in the street twice at the intersection of Kennerly and Sarah Monday; first by an SUV, then a Metro bus. A five year old girl was pronounced dead at St. Louis Children's Hospital shortly after the accident. Her 14 year old brother, a freshman at Soldan High School , remained hospitalized there in critical condition late Monday night. A friend said the boy was pedaling as his little sister stood on the "pegs" of the back wheel. The driver of the SUV told police he never saw the kids until it was too late. Witnesses on the street and on the bus gave similar accounts.

The Meachum Community in Kirkwood had their pow wow over the Cookie Thornton vs. Kirkwood City Hall killing rampage two months ago. On Monday, a representative from The U.S. Department of Justice sent a representative to Kirkwood t, to try to get to the root of the city's race problems. The meeting was in Meacham Park, where residents said they're fed up with racism. They talked a lot, and the mediator listened. February 7, 2008 was the night Charles "Cookie" Thornton killed five people at Kirkwood City Hall.
"Was Cookie discriminated against? Was Cookie mistreated? Was there an injustice shown to a man who was a citizen of Kirkwood, a citizen of the U.S.? I would unequivocally say yes," Pastor Miguel Brinkley told the crowd. "In my opinion what he did at city hall was wrong."
"But if he hadn't done it, would we be having this dialogue?" he asked. The crowd applauded and loudly said, "No."
Thornton's family was in the front row, his neighbors were in the crowd, and his actions were on their minds. But those actions were not the only things people came to discuss.
The Department of Justice sent a mediator to Meacham Park to hear any complaint, and complaints were plenty.
Residents of the mostly African-American neighborhood complained about being held to different standards as white Kirkwood residents when it comes to obtaining business permits. They say they are over-scrutinized by city police, under-represented at city hall, and discriminated against.
Mediator Bill Whitcomb from U.S. Department of Justice's Community Relations Service told the crowd no one called him to come to town, that he saw Kirkwood as a hotspot and sought out city leaders. He said the justice department is not a judge. But he encouraged anyone and everyone to speak up. He said he will take the information to Kirkwood's new mayor and the police chief. He plans to meet with residents again in about two months, and six months, to help the community decide where to go from here. We guess this is a start, but our question is, Will the city of Kirkwood really get down to the nitty gritty to investigate the shootings that occurred in Feburary or will this just be window dressing the issue and business as usual with the new mayor?

Will there be a national Gas Strike on May 2?

Missouri Senate—health care package After weeks of hand-wringing over the future of health care, the Senate approved legislation Monday that includes a new version of Gov. Matt Blunt’s plan to help the uninsured. The 30-4 vote and brief debate gave little indication of the controversy that will follow the bill as it moves to the House.
Democrats’ main criticism is that it fails to provide coverage for all of the 90,604 low-income residents kicked off Missouri’s Medicaid program three years ago. Sen. Joan Bray, a St. Louis County Democrat, reiterated those concerns Monday. Many Republicans are upset with a plan that would potentially subsidize medical insurance for people well into the middle class The 88-page bill includes a wide range of programs intended to make consumers more aware of the true cost of health care and to make informed choices.The centerpiece of the bill is a retooled version of the governor’s Insure Missouri plan. If funded by the legislature, the plan would provide medical coverage for people age 19 to 64 with income of up to 225 percent of the poverty level – or $46,467 a year for a family of four.

Sistas in Law(suits)

State Rep. Connie Johnson (UPPER LEFT) is facing a lawsuit targeting her place on the ballot. She held a defiant news conference this week morning, putting her opponents on notice that she intends to be around for the August primary. One of Johnson’s two rivals from within the party - State Rep. Robin Wright-Jones(BELOW LEFT) - filed a lawsuit challenging her residency status. As reported, court documents and other records suggest that Johnson has been staying with her ailing mother at a home in the city’s West End - which is both outside the House District she represents, and the State Senate she is seeking to represent. Johnson provided a copy of her answer to the lawsuit, which seems to allow room for ambiguity. The motion states that Johnson has “maintained a physical presence” at her district address on Tara Lane in the city’s North Point neighborhood, “although, like most other state representatives of this state, she maintains more than one residence…” But that address, Johnson added, was not always where she rested her head. Further blurring the picture is that Johnson rented out her district home to a pair of tenants, whom she later sued for failing to pay rent. This is about to go into catfight mode!

President George W. Bush’s press secretary, Dana Perino, told reporters at the White House this afternoon that “the President will travel to St. Louis, Missouri this Friday; the topic will be on the economy…” He will be speaking at World Tech Warehouse in Maryland Heights and the speech will not open to the public.

The STL area are mourning the deaths of two young ladies whose plans to make a differnce in their lives were cut short.

Terry "Jody" Rader Learn, an exotic dancer at Roxy;s, who dies of a drug overdose this week. Alton Police Lt. David Hayes, the deputy commander of the Major Case Squad activated to investigate Learn's death, confirmed Monday afternoon that preliminary autopsy results determined the exotic dancer died from illicit drug use. Learn, whose maiden name was Rader, decided to quit her job at the Brooklyn topless club Roxy's, move to St. Louis, try to find a job and stop using drugs. She began using drugs more than 10 years ago. She tried rehabilitation many times, but it never clicked.

AND

Erika M. St. Arbor, of Millstadt, a senior studying childhood development, died after a car accident Saturday in Collinsville. The wreck happened. at the intersection of Illinois State Route 159 and St. Charles. According to a press release from the Maryville Police Department, St. Arbor was attempting to make a left turn in her 2003 Chevy Cavalier onto Route 159, when she was hit by a 2001 Ford F-150.St. Arbor was pronounced dead at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, and a passenger in her vehicle was transported to the same hospital. St. Arbor was preparing to graduate in two weeks at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and was also engaged to be married.

R.I.P. to both young women.

The report this week of an attempted abduction by two African American boys of a 13-year-old boy in the 3000 block of Old Freeburg Road in Belleville against was false. Police determined the report to be unfounded and that no abduction took place. No further information was released. Police received a call about 6 p.m. today. Belleville police and St. Clair County deputies responded to the scene. Earlier, police were looking for two black male suspects who fled in a black vehicle,. According to police broadcasts, the victim was seen jumping out of the moving vehicle, and the suspects fled south on Old Freeburg Road......................................Repairs to a section of Missouri 79 in Pike County may take longer than expected after part of the roadway slid down a hillside. this week. The Missouri Department of Transportation closed the section of road earlier this month when the pavement began to crack. But recently, the pavement separated completely and slid down a hill. Heavy rain - and not last Friday's earthquake - are being blamed for the damage. MoDOT says the soil had simply become saturated. Repair options are being considered, but MoDOT officials expect it will be at least 2-3 months before the section is reopened. For now, motorists are being detoured to other roads...................and speaking of earthquakes,
there was another one last Friday. With a 3.7 magnitude, the earthquake shook Southern Illinois , originating not far from the epicenter of last week's temblor .The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the quake struck at 12:31 p.m. Its epicenter was about five miles northeast of Bellmont, Ill., according to the federal earthquake center based in Colorado. There were no immediate reports of damage.Seismologists said Friday's earthquake originated along the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone, which produced last week's 5.2 magnitude earthquake. There have been more than 20 aftershocks following last week's 5.2 event, which rattled homes from Memphis to Cincinnati and places in between.

Washington Park police officer Juan McCoy was arrested last Thursday on a warrant for two counts of second-degree statutory sodomy issued after police investigated a complaint of sexual misconduct involving a 14-year-old boy in St. Louis. McCoy, 35, was arrested without incident at the Illinois State Police headquarters in Collinsville. A spokeswoman for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department said, "The Metropolitan Police Department was contacted by the Illinois State Police on April 16, regarding an incident involving a 14-year old male victim that occurred between June and August in the 3700 block of Winnebago." The felony charges against McCoy are unrelated to his position as a Washington Park officer, Morrisey said. McCoy is a former East St. Louis police officer. He also worked as the chief of security for the East St. Louis Housing Authority. McCoy was being held at the Madison County Jail pending extradition. He was being held in lieu of $250,000 cash only bail....................As of blog time, we were not able to get any info on teh alleged sexual child abuse case at John Burrows School.

Chip Rosenbloom and his sister Lucia Rodriguez made their first appearance as St. Louis Rams owners in St. Louis this week, holding an introductory press conference at Rams Park. They announced some of their plans to commemorate their late mother, Georgia Frontiere, in 2008.Among those plans was a patch that will be worn on the sleeves of Rams uniforms. At first, placing the letters GF — as in Georgia Frontiere — was contemplated for the patch. But almost everyone who knew Frontiere referred to her simply as Georgia, so that's what will be placed on the patch.As a special touch, the word "Georgia" will be a replication of Frontiere's handwriting. When Frontiere died Jan. 18 after a long battle with breast cancer, Rosenbloom and Rodriguez assumed majority ownership of the team. Rams vice chairman Stan Kroenke still holds his 40 percent share of the club. At the press conference, the siblings assured the press that the Rams would not be sold back to Los Angeles and no jobs will be lost. Well, conventional wisdom always say that when the head changes, so does the body. So we will see.

Lawyer/politican/talk show host Freeman Bosley Jr held at 15 year reunion of his being elected teh first balck mayor of St. Louis. On Monday, April 21, friends, supporters, and former members of that historic Bosley Administration, gathered at the Norman C. Probstein Clubhouse in Forest Park to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Freeman Bosley, Jr.’s inauguration as mayor. In office, his highlights were his overseeing the battle against the Flood of 1993, helping orchestrate the $70 million bailout of Trans World Airlines,
helping move the Rams football team to St. Louis from California and
expanding city services in north St. Louis neighborhoods that had long been underserved. Apparently Bosley musta was doing some serious partying into last weekend cuz he was MIA on his own show last Sunday. LOL.

A passenger jet bound from St. Louis to Milwaukee was forced to land at a St. Louis-area airport because of engine failure last Tuesday.No injuries were reported among the 32 passengers or three crew members, . Passengers were taken by bus from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport to Lambert St. Louis International Airport to catch another flight to Milwaukee.The plane was operated by Chatauqua Airlines, which is owned by Republic Airways. A Republic spokesman, said the pilot at first thought the aircraft had been hit by lightning.One passenger of Florissant, Mo., said she heard a "thunk." She said the flight crew remained calm.

The Farmer wants a Wife. Missouri famer Matt Neustadt, a 29-year-old corn, wheat and soybean farmer who currently resides in Portage Des Sioux, MO, will serve as the Farmer Wants a Wife's bachelor in a new reality dating show on the CW Network. The CW has revealed the identities of Farmer Wants a Wife's object of affection and the 10 women who will attempt to win his heart when the new Outback Jack-like reality dating series premieres Wednesday, April 30 at 9PM ET/PT. The West Alton, MO-native graduated from the University of Central Missouri in 2000 with a bachelor of science degree and an emphasis in agricultural technology. A few years back, friends talked him into applying online for "The Bachelor," on a lark. After seeing the application, the casting agents for "Farmer" called, then called again. Although he's eager to see the finished product, which includes appearances by his mother, Janet, and many of his friends, Neustadt says he isn't worried about any of his on-camera behavior. The show filmed back in July, according to a 2007 report in Neustadt's local St. Charles Journal newspaper...........................And speaking of Hollywood in the Misouri area, According craigslist.org, the production for Matt Damon’s new flick, “the Insider” was filming here in St. Louis this week.

Happy B-day goes outto STL (more like Jefferson City) comedian Cedric The Enetratiner who turned 44 thsi week. Cedric can currently be seen in the flick, , "Street Kings" as Scribble. Cedric (who recently changed his name to Cedric"The Enetrainer" Kyles) is currently filming the biopic "Cadillac records" playing blues legend Wilie Dixon.

Thsi week, Belleville News Democrat did a feature on St. Louis native dancer Tonya Reed who danced with rapper Nelly on his American and European tours in 2003 and 2005 before returning to St. Louis and teaching in Belleville beginning in 2005 where she owns Belleville Elite Dance Academy, a second-floor dance studio at 310 E. Main St. where she teaches hip-hop, tap, ballroom, belly dancing and lyrical dancing. In the article she said that she didn't grow up going to dance classes. MTV was her teacher and she taught herself by.She made the second and third rounds of tryouts for the St. Louis Rams cheerleaders squad only to be cut. Later, she took classes with choreographer and dance professor Ray Robinson in Atlanta. She constantly searched Internet message boards for auditions. A friend tipped her off to the Nelly auditions for his video "Air Force Ones" and got booked for the gig. She graduated from Lindbergh in 1992 and the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 2002 with a degree in education.....................The Pocketbook Monologues will soon be opening up in the STL. The hit production is an African American female version of Eve Ensler’s seminal (or would that be vaginal) production The Vagina Monologues. It was written and produced by former STL journalist/radio personality Sharon McGhee ( who recently sub-hosted on the Freeman Bosley Junior Show on 100.3The Beat last Sunday with her former Good Morning St. Louis co-host Hank Thompson). Presented by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Omicron Theta Omega Chapter, Monologues will be staged in June at the Sheldon Concert Hall (SEE EVENT-BITZ BLEOW FOR MORE INFO)

Did yawl see the new local commercial that Majic 105 personality/poet Selena J did for St. Louis Community Credit Union? Well, its pretty simple and basic (she's sitting in a chair and reading on cue cards), but she is really selling the company with her winning smile and believability. Miss J also will host and help judge the winners of POETRY FORWARD, Wednesday, April 30, at Florissant Valley's campus on the IR patio*.

STL Poet Ainoku Saadiq aka Aja La’Starr will be featured this Wednesday at Got Lyrics, at VanGohz (SEE MOCHA'S CORNER BELOW). This lyricist, who graduated from Xavier Univerity in Nawlins, has appeared on B.E.T. three times, one of which was an opening act for Comic View. In addition, she’s won many poetry slams, talent shows and appeared on a host of mixtapes and compilations and even completed several independent albums. She is currently finishing up a Master’s program at the University of Phoenix and plan to start her own film production company..............................And speaking of Got Lyrics, what is this that OUITTOWN hearing that Mocha Latte may close shop on the successful weekly open mic event in June cuz of folk not patronizing the bar after the cover charge? I hope this is not true. Folk, we know gas is high, but please support this event. If you can pay $20 to get into a particular monthly event (which will name nameless) and then pay 10 more for a drink, you can support this event which will give you more than a crowd of people...............................In unrelated Mocha Latte newz, her new nite on Friday will debut at the Skybox at the Landing. The upscale attired event will be called. The Best Damn Friday Night Period. This Friday her event will be the official after party for Nelly’s charity b-ball event at Harris Stowe. (See MOCHA”S CORNER BELOW FOR INFO)..................................................What’s up with two men who were arrested Friday for being in their birthday suits on Forest Parkway?

And lastly a RIP—OUTTOWN would like to give its heartfelt sympathy to Ms. Dottie who [passed this week. She was pivotal in the success of singer/club owner Gene Lynn’s nightclub career.

IN THE MIA(MISSING IN ACTION) FILE. Where is eductaor/fitness trainer Malcolm Lee (pictured center) ? MIA FOUND the one of the two organziers of stlonfire.com, Andrew Clark gettin his party on at Precision's Panache event at Sugar's last Saturday. He told OUTTOWN that the reason for his absence was that he tore up a shoulder muscle.

BLIND BITZ. Which mover and shaker attended a popular recurring event and ordered ERR thing on the menu of teh venue that was holding this event. And to top it off, this hearty eater had a three page list of do's and dont's to give to the chef for preperation for their food? (Hint. This person is a repeat offender of BLIND BITZ and was sitting in the front row of the Punany Poets at the Moolah Lounge (the Moolah is not the venue by the way.)

EVENT BITZ.

Stress Free Fridays Friday, May 2, 2008; 5pm-UNTIL Scape (http://www.scapestl.com/) 48 Maryland Plaza St. Louis, Missouri 63108
> 314-335-7377 EARLY ARRIVAL IS HIGHLY SUGGESTED! Stress Free Fridays visits one of the hippest venues in the Central West End, Scape...at
Scape, you will be able to enjoy great food, thirst-quenching liquid libations
and a fantastic vibe...**SPECIAL NOTE: If the weather is perfect, then we will convene on the outdoor European Patio...if the weather is not so nice, then we will convene> indoors (upstairs) in the Fountain Room... Please visit our NEW website:
> http://www.stressfreefridays.ning.com/

The Black Rep, the country’s largest and premier professional, African-American theatre company will continue its 31st Season with HARLEM DUET by Djanet Sears, thru May 18, 2008 at the Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square in St. Louis, Missouri. To reserve your seat please call (314) 534-3810 or visit http://www.theblackrep.org/.

Ticket Pricing and Specials: Single tickets range from $33 to $43. Student rush tickets (30 minutes prior to curtain) are $10 with valid I.D. The Black Rep continues its Target “Next Generation Family Series” this season where young people ages 8 -18 are admitted free with the purchase of an adult ticket on Thursday evenings and at all Saturday matinee performances. Limit one child per adult. In addition, the popular Friday night $20 RUSH HOUR ticket special will be available for Harlem duet on Fridays, May 2, 9 and 16.

Come to The Black Rep’s Box Office at the Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square between 6 and 7 pm and pick up your ticket to Harlem Duet for just twenty bucks. To reserve your seat please call (314) 534-3810 or visit http://www.theblackrep.org/.

Performance Schedule, Wednesday and Thursday Previews at 7:00 p.m.Thursday performances at 7:00 p.m.Friday and Saturday performances at 8:00 p.m.Saturday and Sunday matinee performances at 3:00 p.m.SUBWAY Noonday Series: Student matinee performance April 30, 2008 at 10:00 a.m......................................................................................

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MOCHA's CORNER

GOT Lyrics hosted by Mocha Latte’ every Wednesday night is back on track. Got Lyrics is held at the new location, Van Goghz Martini Bar and Bistro, 3200 Shenandoah Ave. , from 7pm to12am each week. Admission for the event is free before8pm. After 8:00 the cost is minimal; $3.00 for poets and $5.00 for audience. Members of the press are welcome and encouraged to attend opening night........................Ladies Night OUT Thursdays at Dante's hosted by Mocha Latte . Ladies Free Admission and Drinks til Midnite………….. The Best Damn Fridya Night Period at the Skybox in the Landing. Doors open at 9 p.m. All free til 10 p.m…………………….Pick up an Evening Whirl on Mondays and check out Mocha Latte’s column COFFEE TALK!SPRING INTO FITNESS...CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE:http://www.mvpfitness.net/ OR CALL 314-831-7505Please tell them Mocha Latte' referred you.

MOCHA'S SPOTLIGHT

Writer, poet, singer, musician. Te’ V. Smith is a talent worth seeking out! From his humorous and playful yet educational political and social songs to his mind and soul challenging poetry he has amazed crowds from Kentucky to Paris France.An accomplished jazz pianist and soul writer his debut onto the national scene came mid 2007 when he joined the legendary “Roots” for a 5 city tour sharing the gift of word through poetry and song. With a strong following on the poetry/spoken word circuit Mr. Smith is sure to continue to push the envelope, raise the bar and change lives.

Other credits include: The Washington Post’ 100 most influential writers of the next generation 1997 ; Guest youth poet at le deil with Saul Williams and Ani Difranco 2000; featured on BET’s Lyric Café 2006; guest performer for Floetry’ “Floetry remix Tour” 2007; andfeatured artist on Russell Simmons’ Def Poetry Jam 2007HEAR HIM SHARE HIS LIFE at WWW.MYSPACE.COM/TEVSMITH

Contact Mocha Lattte if you want to book him.For more info on these events, contact Miss Latte at 314.646.9917 or sgalvin26@yahoo.com ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

FOX FILES

Go, Diego, Go LIVE! The Great Jaguar Rescue 5 performances at the Fabulous Fox Theatre! Saturday, May 31 at 11am, 2pm & 5pm ; Sunday, June 1 at 2pm & $43, $33, $28, $24, $20 & $15At the Fox Box Office, MetroTix outlets or by calling 314/534-1111Order tickets online at http://www.metrotix.com/.................................

SHERYL CROW with special guest SHAWN MULLINS Thursday, May 22 • 8 p.m.Fabulous Fox Theatre $50, $45 VIP ............................................ERYKAH BADU with THE ROOTS NEW AMERYKAH TOUR Thursday, May 29 – 8 p.m. Fox Theatre $59 $49 $38............................... MAMMA MIA!, the smash hit musical based on the songs of ABBA, makes a triumphant return to the Fox Theatre for one week only, June 3-8 as a special offering of the U.S. Bank Broadway series. Curtain times are Tuesday through Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. This marks the musical’s fifth engagement at the Fabulous Fox proving to be a St. Louis favorite! Tickets for MAMMA MIA! range from $25 to $69 depending on performance date and seat location. Tickets go on sale April 27 at the Fox Theatre box office and all MetroTix locations. To charge by phone, call MetroTix at 314/534-1111 or order on-line at http://www.metrotix.com/. Groups of 20 or more can call Fox Group Sales at 314/535-2900 for special rates on select performances. MAMMA MIA! is a special offering of the U.S. Bank Broadway Series and sponsored by American Airlines...................................................................KETC / CHANNEL 9 presentsWillie NelsonWith Special Guest James HunterSaturday, June 14 • 7:30 pmAt the Fabulous Fox Theatre!$53, $48, $43, $38Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 12 at 10 am!...................................................................RETURN TO FOREVERwith Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Al Di Meola, Lenny WhiteBack together again for the first time in over 25 years!Tuesday, June 17 • 8 p.m.Fabulous Fox Theatre$74.50, $64.50, $49.50, $44.50, $39.50VIP Packages also availableTickets are on sale now.Miles Davis’ electric bands in the late ‘60s served as inspiration for several pioneering jazz fusion bands, including Tony Williams’ Lifetime, Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters, John McLaughlin’s Mahavishnu Orchestra, Joe Zawinul and Wayne Shorter’s Weather Report and Chick Corea’s legendary Return to Forever. Formed in 1971, Return to Forever is known for improvising complex compositions and melding the jazz tradition with rock music. Though the lifespan of the band was only from 1972 to 1977, Return to Forever has been heralded as one of the most innovative bands in jazz history. The highly anticipated return of Return to Forever gives original fans and a new generation of listeners a chance to experience their unparalleled pure sound live..............................................................ROBERT PLANT AND ALISON KRAUSSFeaturing T Bone BurnettThursday, June 19 • 8pmFabulous Fox Theatre$67.50, $57.50 & $47.50Tickets are on sale nowRecipients of the 2007 Grammy award for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals, for the track “Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)”, ROBERT PLANT and ALISON KRAUSS – along with Raising Sand producer and band leader T Bone Burnett – are creating a show that will feature songs from their collaborative release, as well as from the artists’ extensive career discographies.Band members for the tour include Jay Bellerose (drums) and Dennis Crouch (bass) – both of whom played on Raising Sand – as well as Buddy Miller (guitar) and Stuart Duncan (fiddle, mandolin and other instruments). Burnett will play guitar and 6-string bass, as well as perform several songs. For more information, go to http://www.robertplantalisonkrauss.com/. …….
Melissa Etheridge The Revival Tour 2008 Fox Theatre Monday, August 11 • 8 p.m.
On-Sale Information: Tickets on sale this Saturday, May 3 at 10am!
Purchase tickets at the Fox Box Office, MetroTix outlets
or by calling 314/534-1111. Order tickets online at http://www.metrotix.com/.
.............................................2008-2009 U.S. Bank Broadway Series Shows and Specials: (Subscription Season in Bold) Oprah Winfrey presents THE COLOR PURPLE, October 21-November 2, 2008 SWEENEY TODD, November 14-16, 2008CATS, November 28-30, 2008LEGALLY BLONDE the Musical, January 20-February 1, 2009The Rep presents SPRING AWAKENING, February 10-22, 2009CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY, March 17-29, 2009Dance St. Louis presents STOMP, April 3-5, 2009HAIRSPRAY, April 24-26, 2009Dance St. Louis presents RIVERDANCE, May 1-3, 2009A CHORUS LINE, May 12-24, 2009RENT, June 2-7, 2009MARY POPPINS, AUGUST 13-30, 2009THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, September 23-October 17, 2009+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Saint Louis Movers and Shakers Mixer , Wednesday, April 30 , Premium lounge, 4199 Manchester 5 p.m. –until FREE 314. 652-8585

www.myspace.com/stlmoversandshakersmixers

4 Sho 4Kids DERRTY ENT AND LOOSE CANNON PRESENT DERRTY ENT VS LOOSE CANNON ENT, Friday, May 2 at Harris Stowe University...WHO WILL WIN? SUPPORT 4 SHO 4 KIDS...CHARITY BASKETBALL GAME FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY....MAY 2ND...KIDS UNDER 12 ARE FREE. Doors at 7 p.m.; Game time at 8 p.m. Children Free Under 12. $10 Admission . Tix available at Exquisite Fashions locations and Harris Stowe Box Office. Official After set is at Skybox (on the Landing). For tix info and group rates call 314.531.3346 or 1.888.211.2275

Makk Mafia Ent present Mirror Mirror, Sat. May 3, at Club Rio doors at 11 p.m.---until 18 to get in, 21 to stumble out. Ladies $5 Gents $10 until midnite. Greek discount $7 until 1 a.m. Casual Wear Only. Dress Code Enforced. For more info, call 618.960.6934

Fly 2 Ent presents the Inaugural Jump Off Celebration, at Francois, 326 Vandeventer, Saturday, May 3. Doors open at 7 p.m. Also come celebrate the b-day of GQ hosted Rance John. Ladies Free til 9 p.m., Divine Soundz on the 1s and 2s. For more info call 314.323.5243

3rd Annual PRONTO Fashion ShowFriday, May 9, 2008Doors Open 7:30 PM ; Show starts at 8:30 PMHosted at 555 Washington Avenue Building - LobbySt. Louis, MO 63101Tickets are now available! Tel. 314/726-3117http://www.prontofashion.com/

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

MAY IS CELEBRATION MONTH AT “THE POT ”

* May 5 th Cinco De Mayo 50% off

* May 11 th Mother’s Day has gifts and Special Menu

* May 17 th to May 31 st $15.00 off for Military

* Happy Hour 5 to 7 pm, weekdays

* Wine School May 20th

May 5 th Cinco de Mayo --Join us for half off on Margaritas, Corona beer, Fiesta Cheese fondues and of course, Chips and Salsa. Don’ forget that every Monday is half off of bottles of wine when you order a three course dinner. Get your week started with some great food and drinks.

May 11 th Mother’s Day--We have a special gift for every Mom that comes in on Sunday. We have a special menu for the occasion too. Just call us at 314-725-4141 for the details. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, we have a 15% off coupon for Mom for a future visit. We will open at Noon on Mother’s Day so call now to get your favorite time. Three course dinners start at only $ 34.00 per person.

$15 dollars off for 15 days--This special program is for our friends and neighbors in the Military. From Armed Forces Day (5/17) weekend to Memorial Day (5/31), our Military friends and neighbors get $15.00 off when they order the Big Night Out four course dinner. Just bring your Military ID or CAC and tell your server. Thanks for all that you do. Call us at 314-725-4141.

HAPPY HOUR--Happy Hour has finally arrived at “The Pot.” We have a great new bar menu and some very interesting beverage selections. Join me from 5 to 7 every weekday for specially priced bar and beverage fun. Lots of free parking around back. Avoid the 5:00 PM rush and relax with us. Enjoy the outdoors on the patio with a cocktail and appatizers.

May 20 th starts the Summer Semester of Wine School--This course meets on Tuesday nights and learns and enjoys one particular wine varital each week. Taught by Jennifer Johnson, CSW, You learn the differences between wines, their composition, storage methods, pairing with foods, and best of all, the tastes. The course is only 8 weeks. If space permits, you can sign up for one class of a particular wine type. Call us at 314-725-4141 and ask for Zach Smith for details.

Dress code is. Business Casual, with a collared shirt or “Dress to Impress” always works

For more info email Mike at mike@meltingpotstl.com Or call 314-725-4141

AND

Starting Friday May 30th, Saturday May 31st, and Sunday June 1st, a > change in the landscape of metropolitan St. Louis will begin. The St. Louis Metro Police Dept presents "The Weekend of Reconciliation". Friday will kick off the weekend with a youth oriented "State of Emergency" panel discussion. Incorporated in to this evening, with the help of Hot 104.1 will be the finals of a hip hop/rap contest hosted by Dynasty Productions. This event will be housed at the Lindbergh campus of Shalom (Church City Of Peace) 5491 N.Highway 67, Florissant, MO 63034.

Saturday will be the implementation of education. We will host workshops and classes at satellite sites throughout St. Louis City, County, and East St. Louis, all united via video conferencing. Saturday evening will encompass an evening of basketball at Harris-Stowe University. There will be a group of games played by local all stars and "not so all stars" alike. >

The weekend will culminate on Sunday with the most outrageous, powerful, and > magnanimous gathering of black men that the Midwest has ever seen. We will unite 20,000 black men at the Robert's building on Kingshighway, and march the old Annie Malone parade route ending in Tandy park. After the parade, we will be blessed with speakers, leaders, and fellowship the type unheard of in St. Louis to introduce the plans of "A Call to Oneness". . For more info please contact Erich Morris at (314)653-2300. > http://www.myspace.com/acalltooneness> <http://www.myspace.com/acalltooneness>

The Pocketbook Monologues (aka the black Vagina Monologues) Presented by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Omicron Theta Omega Chapter, Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 6:00 PM at the Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Boulevard, Saint Louis, MO 63108. Single Tickets On sale Thursday, May 01, 2008 at 9:00 AM Ticket Prices$35 general For more info call 314.533.9900 or go to http://www.sheldonconcerthall.org/calendar.asp

AUDITION BITZ .........It's Just Me April. I'm looking for all kinds of talent for a promotional live show to be held at a cafe in Indianapolis Indiana. If you sing R&B,Soul,Jazz,Gospel, Neo Soul,Country,Blues,Rap,Rock what ever. If you play any kind of insturment,spoken word, dance, 1-3 person stage act. Please contact me at jmproductionsllc@aol.com.............................................St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase - July 19-24, 2008 Cinema St. Louis is proud to announce that submissions for the 8thannual 2008 St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase. Deadline for submissions isMay 31, 2008. Click here http://cinemastlouis.org/showcase.html for an Adobe PDF of the official submission application and entry rules. A Word document can be supplied upon request.

JOB-ITZ City Light is a gospel video production company that continues to grow on and on and on!!!!!!!!!!!! We are currently looking for a professional independent videographerwho is experienced in filming, creative and skilled in editing with alove for video and eager to learn with an ability to travel. We are also looking for an additional shooter and PA's free to travel and an interest in assisting on the following: 100 Black Men National Conference........July 2008 Orland, FL (In Disney) Essence Music Festival ......................June 2008 New Orleans, LA(Only filming City Lights client's participation on stage and workshops) NAACP National Conference..................June 2008 City TBA Urban League National Conference..........August 2008 City TBA Live Gospel Music Video.........................October, 2008 Durham, NC Church musical service............................October, 2008 Durham, NC Gospel Music Video .............................. September, 2008 Durham, NC (2) Gospel Music Video................................Date TBA Denver, CO All PA's travel and hotel fully paid with possibly 1 to 2 meals per work day Camera operator hourly pay per work hour along with travel and hotel fully paid. Skilled students and ladies are encouraged to apply!!!!!!!!!!!!! All interested please reply to this email stlfilmwire@kdhx.org and put or leave Employment in Subject Line! no phone calls please! Thank You for your interest in working with City Lights!!!!!!!!!!!

HELP-BITZ.

HELP CALL TO ONENESS MEETINGS. DO NOT MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY to play your God given part. There are plenty of ways for you to be involved. There are over 25 different, but vital committees that we have to fill. We also are in need of Marshalls for the weekend and participants in the march. We need ideas for implementation. But mainly, WE NEED YOU!!! Take a look at the info, and plan on being at our next "Call to Oneness" meeting this and every> Thursday at 7:PM at the Lindbergh campus of the Shalom Church (City of> Peace) 5491 N.Highway 67, Florissant, MO. For more info on > that, please contact Erich Morris at (314)653-2300......................................ArtsINTERsection, Metro Theatre Company’s exciting arts education program returns to New City School, 5209 Waterman Avenue, June 9 – 27, 2008. ArtsINTERsection offers a preschool program for children ages 4 – 5 and school age children ages 9 -11. “At ArtsINTERsection kids can expect to have a busy day exploring theater, music, visual art and movement led by a staff of experienced, professional teaching artists with loads of individual attention in a caring environment where every child feels successful,” said Emily Petkewich, Director of Education Metro Theater Company. Four and Five year olds will explore creative drama and music in the morning and visual art and outdoor play in the afternoon. This unique program is great way to get preschoolers ready for their fall school experience! Six through 11 year olds explore acting and improvisation, creative movement, a creativity lab and visual art. Each week brings new creative challenges! Children may attend one, two or all three weeks of the program. Before and after care is also offered by New City School for an additional fee. Tuition is $230 per week, parents who register prior to May 1, 2008 receive an early bird rate of $210 per week. For more information or to register visit http://www.metrotheatercompany.org/ or call (314) 997-6777……………………………………………….Stray Dog Theatre Hop into spring dance classes for children taught by Sheila Rabbitt - professional teacher/choreographer http://www.sheilarabbittanddancers.org/ Come learn beginning modern and jazz dance in a positive environment where children will not only learn steps but create their own dances. Great for kids just starting out and those with some experience! Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:45-5:45 pm 4:45-5:45 pm Children 6-9 Children 10-12 Cost $48 for 8 week session Class size is limited. Early registration suggested. Please call Sheila Rabbitt at (314) 898-0374 to register. LOCATION Tower Grove Abbey 2336 Tennessee Avenue..................................... Stray Dog Theatare 2008 SUMMER ON STAGEChildren’s Theatre Arts Camps for Kindergarten – 5th Grade* Join Stray Dog Theatre’s ARTS IN MIND for a summer season of theatre camps.Camps are taught by theatre professionals and offer a variety of hands-on fun and education, culminating in a week’s end play for friends and family. Snacks and materials are provided. Space is limited, so make your reservation today. Come join the fun! TIME9:00am – 12:00noon LOCATION Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63104 COST $100 per child, per week (Check, Money Order, or Credit Card)CONTACT Call for information and registration (314) 276-9039 and http://www.towergroveabbey.org/ .......................................Kobalt Books has just inked a movie-production dealwith Factor Media Group/Applecrate Films/OmniquestMedia to develop the true life story of Rev. BurtonBarr Jr. and his autobiography, “The HoodlumPreacher”, into a feature film. The publisher, KobaltBooks, is currently looking to raise development fundsfor this film. Potential investors will come on asmanaging members of the company thatproduces thefilm.For More Investment Info, Contact:Cedric Mixon at 314-503-5462........................................Shante LIFE Davis is offering tutoring services forthe youth for grades 1-12. If you are aware of anyonewho is in need of some extra educational support,please feel free to contact her or give them hercontact information. Shante "LIFE" Davis(314)418-9803................STL rapper/producer J-Kwon-has a new label deal and we are looking for someinterns to work on the new label HOOD HOP MUSICgraphicdesigners street team female street team club streetteam models internet teams (e-blasting,bloggers,writers)We are looking for the best. So instead ofjust grabbing the person that says they are the best,we are looking for people to SHOW us they are the best at what they do. The bread-winners will be put onpayroll with a permanent job with the company. If youthink you will be the next hottest publicist, model,A&R, sponsorship writer, whatever it is that you do,then get at us! If you can do mixtape covers, adcovers, posters, willing to do street team work and beapart of this new label contact me directly at kanecc@tmail.com…………………………..Joel P. E. King, owner of JPEK CreativeWorks LLC and The Space, wants to make an offer tothose of you who are in search for party and eventspace. Close to 2,000 square feet of available spacefor your next event, wedding party, baby shower, artexhibition and more. Here at The Space, you willacquire elegance, convenience and wonderfulhospitality. The Space located at 320-24 N.Vandeventer (off Lindell Blvd. in SLU area) Contact:314.494.5976 or 314.494.9095................Saint Louis has a new STREET TEAM. STL Promotions Professional Staff ,On time reporting with Pictures Electronic Marketing:E-Cards, E-Blast, Website Presence, Guerilla Marketing Techniques, Service Street, Radio, College, and Mixtape DJs, Special Events, Telephone Conferences,Retail, Market Visits, Professional Marketing Strategy for Saint Louis, Premium Product Placement, Exposure every day and every night at every event Our machine operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!!!! We will exceed your expectations!!! Contact us at 314-750-6806.................

ONGOING BITZ For all your photography needs go to www.lanceomarthurman.com/

Status Fridays every Friday at Dolce Ladies $5 before 11 p.m. 9 p.m.-3 am

CAFE SOUL, every 3rd Friday of the Month, Lucas House, 1220 Allen at Gravois, Doors 8 p.m., Band 9 p.m. FOR VIP SEATING PLEASE CALL 314-504-7405. GET THERE EARLY! SEATING IS LIMITED!

The Black Rep's blog, Black Reppin. It can be found on its website, http://www.theblackrep.org/ or directly at http://theblackrep.blogspot.com/.As with other blogs, readers are invited to join the conversation..............

NEW: Francois cognac and cigar bar presents Evening of Expressions, every Tuesday a blend of culture, spoken word and neo soul, 326 N/ vanderventer. Free until 9 p.m. $5 after 9 p.m. For more info call Ms. Bell at 314.229.7952 or Alexander at 314.448.2939

Suite Soul Spot, 1st Tuesday of each Month at the Old Rock House, 1200 S 7th Blvd. 9 p.m. 314-588-0505.2 Dollar Tuesdays at The Spot, 8370 N Broadway. $2 to get in and $2 drink specials all niet liong. Doors at 9 p.m. for more info call 314.385.4545

J’var, JE and Maxxed Out Entertainment Present Lyric Lounge every Wednesday @ House of Comedy (formerly Laughs on theLanding), 801 N. 2nd Street Featuring Poets, R&B, NeoSoul, Jazz and Funk artist weekly……Singers and poetryslam enthusiast gather weekly to present a uniqueblend of spoken word poetry and music from local andnot so local artist…….Doors open @ 8 show starts @9…..$100 weekly cash prize to the hottestlyricist….live band …..door prizes….giveaways…….allfor only $5 at the door For more info, call 314.241.5233

Roc-a- Star presents Refreshin with DJ NeedlesThursdays at Xes behind the Drunken Fish, 612. N. 2ndSt. Laceldes Landing. Ladies FREE til 11 p.m..............

Urban Causal Fridays hosted by Bishop V-luv, HappyHour at Spruills, 1101 N. Jefferson. Free from6p.m.-9p.m. (2 for 1) Free food 9 p.m.-11p.m. Drinkspecials until midnite. Party 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Ladies free til 11 p.m. for more info call 314.574.9601 or314.625.4595 or go to www.myspace.com/URBANCASUALFRIDAYS

The Virtual Lounge Expressions, A Christian based open mic every 1st Friday, Cookies jazz and More #20 AllenBlvd. Webster Groves, Mo. Doors open at 8 p.m. Cover $10. For more info go to http://www.thevirtualounge.net/

Tuff On Paper ENT presents Network and ShowcaseSaturdays every first Saturday of each month and LoveYourself Saturdays every third Saturday of each month,9.m.--until at the Spyglass, 255 Union at Lindell $5at the door. first 50 Ladies Free until 11 p.m. First25 ladies get a free drink. 21 and older. Grown andsexy attire. For showcase info hit up www.myspace.com/tuffonpaper.comor call 314.443.5001

Check out Leannett Payne’’s CHOCOLATE BLOG by emailing her at Leannettpayne@yahoo.com!

UC ME Radio with Murphy lee, Kyjuan and comedian Darius Bradford, 6 p.m. Sundays on 100.3 The Beat.

Bosley and Associates Traffic Law Centers .Suspensions, Speeding. Revocations. DWI. PointProblems. Accidents. Frison ‘s Flea Market, 7025 St.Charles Rock Rd., Fri-Sunday 9 am-5 p.m. or Big TopFlea Market, 367 Chambers Road. For more info, call314.621.1744

If you want to get on Vanita Applebum'shot new entertainment newsletter, email her at www.myspace.com/vanitaapplebum

Majic 104.9's BJ the DJ is personally inviting you tothe Saturday to a straight up Old School Party...no limitation...no limitation! The house party will belive at the new Broadway Nite Club on New Hallsferryand West Florissant! AND at the new Knockouts! For more info contact Gina Foster at 314.712.1083 or go to http://www.divaeventplanning.com/

Check out Lisa Rose blogsite on Strong PositiveBlack Sisters at http://www.positivesisters.blogspot.com/or go to her my space page at www.myspace.com/lisarose08

Check out blog http://www.sistersnineties.blogspot.com/for local literary group Sister’s Nineties Afrocentric literaryactivities for the family and youngsters.

Check out Lachrisa Crenshaw’s spa products at http://www.warmspirit.org/or call her at (314)401-0710Check out Diversity Gallery, for all of your naturalhair and beauty needs as well its café located at 6150Delmar Blvd. in the Delmar loop.For more info call314.721.3361 or email at diversitygallery@netzero.net

For body painting, makeup, face painting wigs andother special effects, contact Jessica Dana at http://www.jessicadana.com/or go to www.myspace.com/jessicadada13

For all of your STL club event plans, AD SPACE andpics,go to http://www.stlouis-online.com2,%20http/www.indalou.com/ http://www.stl411.net/or http://www.stlonfire.com/

Check out STLdee-jay Enoch online with his own radioplaylist.The Flow: Music Lounge. Peep it out at http://www.flowink.com/player-popup.htmlor go to his myspace page www.myspace/enochisreal.

For all your STL hip-hop info needs, go to http://www.stlhiphop.com/!

STL videographer Dana Christian has a website where people can send their professional music videos and films to get exposed. Itis http://www.spitflix.com/.

Well that will be it,.Thanks all for your comments and keep em comin.

Hit me up at maatspear@yahoo.comfor pub or info you want on OUTTOWN.

AND remember OUTTOWN is published every WEDNESDAY!