OUT 385--STL TIDBITZ AND MORE!

HELLO ALL! TODAY IS HUMP DAY? KNOW WHAT

TODAY IS?

EARTH DAY, YES I KNOW, BUT WHAT ELSE?

OUT TOWN TIME! YES!

Here is whats happening this week. Well I guess we here in ST Louis are still rockin and rollin from the earthquake that we felt 4 35am Friday morning!


AND ALL OF THE AFTERSHOCKS!

Last Monday, At 12:38 in the morning, St. Louis felt the trembles of 4.0-magnitude earthquake, one of at least five small aftershocks of Friday's earthquake. According to the U.S Geological Survey National Earthquake Information Center, yesterday's earthquake occurred near Mount Carmel, Illinois, 131 miles from St. Louis. The Last Friday predawn earthquake rattled Southern Illinois and eastern waking up neighborhoods across the area and flooding police departments with calls.
The quake measured 5.2 on the Richter scale and occurred at 4:37 a.m. CDT. It was centered in southeastern Illinois, five miles from the town of Bellmont. People felt it the shaking anywhere from five to 30 seconds. Some reported that windows or foundations had cracked, but police had no immediate reports of major damage. The quake was the result of the moving apart of two tectonic plates along the New Madrid fault, well-known to St. Louis area residents. But instead of being along the main fault line, primarily along the Mississippi River, it originated from a spur known as the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone. The epicenter was in Bellmont, Ill., 127 miles east of St. Louis. ALL OUTTOWN gotta say is, if this wasnt the Big One, we would hate to see what the Big One will do! Where were yawl at when the 5.2 hit? I'm sure T-shirts will be on sale on thw streets with that quetsion we are sure of it!


The Supereme Courts wre all up up in the newz this week, nationally and regionally. States began moving forward with plans for executions this week after the Supreme Court declined last Wednesday to review the appeals of death row inmates who had challenged lethal-injection methods in nearly a dozen states. The court had issued orders staying several executions last year and earlier this year while it weighed whether Kentucky's lethal-injection procedure constituted cruel and unusual punishment. States had postponed at least 14 scheduled executions pending the high court's decision, creating a de facto moratorium on capital punishment, according to the Death Penalty Information Center, which opposes capital punishment. Locally, this means death row inmate Reggie Clemmeons will receive lethal injection for the 1991 murders of sisters Robin and Julie Kerry at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Missouri was on a moratorium on capital punishments since the killings....................The Missouri Senate committee passed a bill Monday granting judges and juries the power to sentence someone to death for forcibly raping or sodomizing a child younger than 12. The senators briefly considered two separate amendments -- one requiring DNA evidence and the other making the death penalty only applicable for prior sexual offenders -- but decided against creating a litmus test for a death sentence. They also passed the law that cyberstalking was against the law.



What wassup with the strange fumes smelled on Spruce Street this week? It was deciceded thet the smells weren't toxic.

The Mississippi River Bridge Project is set to open in 2014.



Cards first baseman Albert Pujols was swicthed to second base this week, a first in his career. The switch was made this past Tuesday when the Cards were playing the Brewers (which they won over teh Cards 9-8 victory) It happened in the bottom of the ninth, after SS César Izturis was hit on the right forearm by a pitch while batting in the top half of the inning and left the game. With C Yadier Molina the only position player left on the bench, the Cardinals sent him in to catch, Aaron Miles to short, Pujols to second from first and starting C Jason LaRue to first. Pujols is appranetly PISSED. He is reported as saying, " I told [Manager Tony La Russa] I wanted to play shortstop, and he told me he preferred for me to go to second." Interestingly enough, Pujols played second base during last years All Star Baseball game and Pujols was livid about that move as well. Hmmm, sound slike a strike is about to happen and it wont be on the field!

Wassup with the monkey found in the locker of an African American's employee at the MSD plant in Lemay last week? Last week, The FBI joined the Metropolitan Sewer District officials in investigating a "racially charged situation" after an African-American employee found a stuffed monkey hanging from a hook in his locker last week.
MSD Executive Director Jeffrey L. Theerman sent a memo to all employees after the monkey was found early Thursday morning at the Lemay treatment plant. He said MSD’s human resources and legal departments are investigating the incident. The Federal Bureau of Investigation began looking into the possibility of a hate crime. Late last year, the FBI looked into reports of a seemingly similar incident at a St. Louis fire station amid racial tension over the ouster of ex-chief Sherman George. Some thought a monkey hanging from a strap in the station was meant as a racial threat, but a union representative said the monkey had been found at a fire and hung up to dry. The FBI ruled out a racial motive.




Former Kirkwood Mayor Mike Swoboda, accompanied by his son, Michael Swoboda Jr., walked into the council chambers last Thursday to thunderous applause and a standing ovation from admirers who had packed the council chambers. This was Swoboda's first public appearance since the Feb. 7 city council shootings, during which he was shot twice in the head. His brief address Thursday evening will be remembered as his last act as mayor. Art McDonnell will be sworn in as mayor next Thursday. OK thats great and dandy, but lets get to the bottom of why all the shootings happeend in the firstplace!

The Police was working overtime on both sides of teh water. On teh East Side, Police is seeking charges on the suspect who shot and killed a man last Wednesday night in the 2600 block of West Main Street in Belleville. The 18 year old man was shot at 2633 W. Main in Belleville. The victim was shot twice in the stomach and the leg. Then, a 39-year-old Belleville man was shot to death about 8 p.m. Monday and police are still looking for his killer. David C. Wilkins, of 16 N. 45th St., Belleville, was identified as the victim. The St. Clair County Coroner's office said Wilkins was pronounced dead at 9:02 p.m. at Kenneth Hall Regional Hospital in East St. Louis. His death was the result of a single bullet wound to the upper shoulder area, the coroner's office said.Wilkins was shot on the parking lot of the Quick Stop Liquor Store at 6100 Forest Blvd. On the STL side, City police said last Friday that the man killed in a shooting on Washington Avenue the afternoon before was Bryan Stacy, 54, of Kansas City. Stacy was found about 5:30 p.m. Thursday in the lower level parking garage at the Ventana Lofts, 1635 Washington Avenue. He was bleeding from gunshot wounds to the side of his neck and to his temple, and was pronounced dead at 6:02 p.m., police said.Police said they had no suspects.

Popular author and media personality Tavis Smiley(RIGHT PIC) said last week that he will resign in June as a twice-weekly commentator on the syndicated “Tom Joyner Morning Show,” after more than 11 years with the program (The show can be heard locally here in St. Louis on FOXY 95.5). Smiley cited fatigue and a busy schedule to Joyner, who indicated otherwise on his program and in his blog .“Joyner (LEFT PIC) wrote "The real reason is that he can’t take the hate he’s been getting regarding the Barack issue — hate from the Black people that he loves so much,” Joyner wrote.Smiley has taken on Obama in a series of commentaries that began as the Democrat from Illinois emerged as the party’s front-runner for the presidential nomination in early January. Days after Obama’s win in the Iowa caucus, Smiley warned on Joyner’s show: “Don’t fall so madly in love [with Obama] that you surrender your power to hold people accountable … I’m not saying overlook Senator Obama, but you’d now better be ready to look him over.”That commentary brought a hail of critical phone calls and e-mails down on Smiley, who replied two days later on the Joyner show that he stood by his criticism. “It’s all about accountability,” he said at the time. Since then, amid mounting criticism, he has stepped up his own critiques, contending that Obama wasn’t attentive enough to issues affecting African Americans.Smiley just signed a thre eyear deal with Nationwide. With the deal, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. will sponsor Smiley's nightly, 30-minute television program, a 2009 State of the Black Union event scheduled for next February in Los Angeles, and a five-city tour making its first stop in Columbus May 17.

STL fashion mogul Kimora Lee Simmons is back for a second season for her hit reality series "Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane" on the Stlye Network. The half hour show premeiered last Sunday. (New episodes air every Sunday at 8 p.m. EST/PST) Shot on location in Los Angeles, Miami, New York and anywhere on
the globe her business takes her, "Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane" once again brings viewers behind the closed doors of Kimora Lee Simmons' world. In addition to her most important job as mom to two adorable daughters Ming Lee and Aoki Lee, Kimora is faced with even more challenges this season as she takes on the new and expanded role of Creative Director of Phat Fashions, including the global brands Phat Farm and Baby Phat. New episodes feature birthday parties, public appearances (We are sure that her Homecoming episode will be airing as the season finale when she came to her hometown last month), and
campaign shoots and insider meetings at the Phat Fashions offices, among other behind-the-scenes action. Check your local listings for repeat episodes.

And speaking of STl stars and reality shows. ..........

STL rap superstar Nelly and professional cagefighter Jermaine Andre were on tap for BET's martial arts reality series "Iron Ring" which premiered
last Tuesday. On the show, the celebrity“owners” interact with their gladiators between rounds – and sometimes right in the middle of them. Each week, as top competitors enter the battle zone to face off, using the combined techniques of jiu-jitsu,judo, karate, boxing, kickboxing and wrestling,viewers will witness true-to-life, bone-crushing,face-smashing sports entertainment unlike anything ever seen before. Only the strong will survive! Nelly was the celebrity owners of fighters Eric Marriott, Darryl Cobb, and Mike Cook and Jeremaine Andre was the coach. Check your local listings for airings.In unrelated Nelly news, nelly is touring the countrywith his Blackout parties. The last one was held last wekeend in Houston. Im sure the STL isnt far way! (SEE OUT 382 FOR THE COVERAGE)

Congrats to East St. Louis native poet and emeritus professor (and this blogger’s former instructor and mentor) Eugene B. Redmond who will receive an honorary doctorate from the College of Arts and Sciences at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville’s Spring commencement on May 10 at 9 a.m. . An SIUE graduate, Redmond founded Drumvoices Revue, a multicultural literary journal, and recently retired after 19 years with the English department. The school wheer he is receieving the doctorate made news thsi month when the school couldnt have a summer graduation ceremony because the Vadalabene Center was undergoing a major renovation beginning immediately after spring graduation. Summer graduates originally were told they would not be able to walk the line until December -- long after most of them have moved on to jobs or graduate school.

Tony Award nominated Broadway star and STL native Kingsley Leggs will be in the next production at St. Louis Black Rep, the rhapsodic blues tragedy, "Harlem Duet" (playing at the Grandel Square April 23- May 18) where he will play the role of Othello. Legga got his big break playing the role of Mister in Oprah Winfrey's The Color Purple on Broadway and on tour. Leggs is also a Black Rep alum and graduate of Normandy High School. (SEE EVENT-BITZ BELOW FOR MORE INFO )

Have yawl seen the local commercial veteran Cards short stop Ozzie Smith on TV? It is for the company Good Feet (located on Olive) that sells supports and other products for thso ewith bad or incorrect feet. I guess he is a good candidate to be the sopkesperson (He claims to go there). If you flipped and turned cartwheels for all of your sports career, the feet are bound to need some support. Hello?









There were two out of town celebs who dropped by the STL last week thats worth noting:

R&B signer Lyfe Jennings was in town this past Tuesday for a Free concert at the Loft support hsi new CD, "Lyfe Talk" the cocnert was packed to the raptors! (SEE OUT 384 for COVERAGE)








AND

Chicagoan comedian Damon Williams was in town last week at After Hours monthly networking event at Posh. Anyone know why he was in town cuz we dont think he was playing at any of the major comedy clubs that week. Hmm, maybe we came to visit the sista in this pic. LOL.

Head Punany poet Asheena Marlyse a.k.a "Golden" was recently casted as the Head Doctor of The Punany Poets stage show. She debuted April 17th at the Moolah Theater in her hometown of St. Louis. At the show, it was mentioned by Punany poet founder Jessica Holetr that Golden will take over as lead poet. Akin to the Punany poets show, Golden is planning her one-woman show, Pumps and Paparazzi, which is a cabaret style show encouraging women to take hold of their sexual freedom by being bold and beautiful. The show will send its message through spoken word and dance. Asheena Marlyse a.k.a Golden is a St. Louis native and graduate of Hazelwood Central High School. (SEE OUT

383 and OUT 378 FOR THE PUNANY COVERAGE HERE IN THE STL!)

STL rapper Nite Owl, winner of the The Hot 104.1 Koch Records Madness competition, is on a roll promoting his new double CD Spoiled Rotten. Last Friday he did a CD singing at Vintage Vinyl and later that nite performed at Café Soul at Lucas School House. Last Sunday he was performing at T. Billy’s Buffett’s and this Saturday he set to rock the Blueberry Hill’s Duck Room. WOOSH! No wonder he calls himself Nite Owl!






Congrats go out to STL fitness model Fred Williams who copped 1st runner up at the annual Romatic Times Book Lovers Convention last week in Pittsburgh. (FOR MORE COVERAGE GO TO OUT 383 for the COVERAGE)

And speaking of STL fitness, STL weightlifter Derrick Johnson was interviewed this week on KMOV-TV Channel 4. He talked about his misison to win a slot on the Olympic Team this summer. To peep out the video go to: http://www.kmov.com/video/sports-index.html?nvid=238330&shu=1







Longtime resturant Busch's Grove is set to close its doors May 25. Busch's Grove re-opened to great fanfare about two and a half years ago after entrepreneur Lester Miller stepped in to give it new life with a multi-million dollar renovation, while preserving that historic façade. The spot has been in biz since the 1890s. As of pres stime, there was no explanation as to why the venue wa slcosing or when it will reporn at a another location. As one venue closes, another door opens. STL businessman Eric Gollway opene dup yet another spot. Last week he opened The Twilight Room, a banquet and concert venue located near Galloway's Lights On Broadway Plaza in Baden. .................................What's this OUTTOWN is hearing that our girl hoodtsar Mocha Latte is set to blaze yet another nite of party networking at the Skybox on the Landing. According to Delores Shante's Partyline in the St. Louis American last week, Latte is set to have an upscale nite at the venue thie Friday. Well, we hung with Latte Tuesday and she aint told us notta about that. Hmmm. It would be hot if it is true. That means she would have Wednesdays (Got Lyrics at VanGohz) and Thursdays (My Drink and My Two Step at Dante's on lock. We will keep you posted............And speaking of Mocha LAtte, her DJ , Reminisce we hear is a new daddy. congrats.

IN THE MIA(MISSING IN ACTION) FILE. Where is Spin City Recordz recording artist Jzanell?











BLIND BITZ. Which mover and shaker got cussed out recently at a bar owner's establishment while trying to pass paraphernalia in the venue without permission? (Hint. The mover and shaker's last name is the same as a popular fictional 1950s Tv character whose clothing item was a children's fave and the establishment is on Olive in U City.)

BLIND-BITZ PIC. Who is the driver of this classic car that was driving down Delmar last weekend? (Hint. The guy pretty much owns the street he drives on).






EVENT BITZ.

We Won The Night welcomes all to an evening of uptempo and downtempo hits from the 70s to the present featuring covers from artsist like Jill Scott, Maxwell, Bilal, common and Chaka and Sade and more. Performed by Lamar Harris and the L and Dj Enoch The Old Rockhouse, 1200 7th St. at Hickory April 24, 9 p.m. –until. Ladies $5 before 10 p.m. For more info 314.680.1918

STRESS FREE FRIDAYS Friday, April 25, 2008, 5pm-1:30am, Simply Fondue (http://www.simplyfonduestlouis.com/) 1629 Locust, St. Louis, Missouri 63103314-335-7377 **EARLY ARRIVAL IS HIGHLY SUGGESTED! Stress Free Fridays teams up with "PROFESSIONAL RELAXATION" as we visit one of thenewest Downtown venues, Simply Fondue. Barack Obama's National Campaign> Committee will be hosting the network fundraising portion> of the evening. Also, Attorney Don Calloway, who is> running for State Rep for the 71st District will be joining> them. >

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, April 23- 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/. Harlem Duet is presented by Anheuser Busch. An ingenious twist on Shakespeare's famous tragedy Othello, HARLEM DUET recounts the tale of Othello and his first wife Billie, an African American woman he abandons for the white Desdemona. While non-chronological, the prequel to Othello takes place primarily in the present day as well as in 1928 and 1860 and explores the effects of race and sex on the lives of people of African descent. Billed as a rhapsodic blues tragedy, Harlem Duet weaves a rich tapestry of music, love, revenge, loyalty and madness. Kingsley Leggs, a Black Rep alum and graduate of Normandy High School, who has achieved success on both the stage and screen will play the role of Othello. Members of the cast also include Black Rep favorites, Linda Kennedy (Magi), Dennis Lebby (Canada), Monica Parks (Amah), New York actress, Cherita Armstrong (Billie) and Nicole Fabbri (Mona). The production is directed by Ron Himes.
Harlem Duet was the first play by an author of African descent to be presented at the Stratford Festival. Variety called it “an ambitiously complex and satisfying work about interracial marriage, ghettos and the whitening of black history and culture.”
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, April 23 – May 18, 2008
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: Join the director and designers for a lively discussion on Thursday, April 24 at 12:00 p.m., lunch provided by Subway Delmar Loop
Student matinee performance April 30, 2008 at 10:00 a.m......................................................................................

Chereees INK presents Rock of Love Season two hosted by Jessica Kinni and Amber Lake , Fri. April 25 at Home Nightclub. 9 p.m..............................................



MPAC presents April Eye candy party The Bet Tv Broadcast Edition. The party will be televised on Rap City with guest judge Rap City host DJ q 45 Fri. April 25 at Club Society ladies only $5 after 11 p.m. St. Louis the April Eye Candy party will be the BIGGEST party of the year, that's right, the BIGGEST party of the year! It's the BET Edition, you read it right, B-E-T Edition. BET will be here filming the April Eye Candy Party and footage can be seen on the popular BET show, Rap City! BET's Rap City host, Q45 will be here hosting, and judging the competition. It's going down, Friday, April 25, 2008 @ Club Society. Ladies, Free martini's til 11pm and only $5 til 11pm. The winner will receive a PR Package from MPAC: $500 cash, picture and bio in The St. Louis American, a photo shoot, featured on www.stleyecandy.com, and chance to be featured in the Eye Candy Calendar, a chance to be seen on Rap City, and a host of other prizes. Registration is FREE and ends at 11pm SHARP!...............


Ezekeil and Walter Deuce of VIP Entertainment LLC presents Lavish, Crème De Al Crème Whiet Party , Sat. April 26 at the International Bowling Hall o f Fame across from Busch Stadium 9 p.m. –until, $10 general admission, $30 VIP in ADV. For more info RSVP to vipentertainment@live.com or contact 314.517.8385 Visit www.mycpace.com/vip_stl. Tickets can be purchased at the Computer Outlet Store 314.839.1997...............................................

MARCH FOR BABIES WALK 2008!! 4/26/2008, 9:00 AM The Muny-St. Louis Forest ParkLower Muny Parking Lot WE ARE GATHERING OUR TEAMS IN PREPARATION FOR THE WALK AT 8:15 AM AT THE VISITORS CENTER IN THE LINDELL PAVILION. We have two teams walking. TEAM FOXY and TEAM HOT! You can log onto each site ( URL for HOT 104.1 team page: http://www.marchforbabies.org/494320 or URL for FOXY 95.5 team page: : http://www.marchforbabies.org/494321) and join the team of your choice as well as send your friends and family to the site to join our team and walk with us! Let's all walk for a great cause! The festivities (a band will be playing, we’ll have clowns, etc.) will continue until 12 pm or 1 pm. For more info call 314-569-5138 Office
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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..........................My Drink N My Two Step Thursdays at Dante's hosted by Mocha LAtte . Ladies Free Admission and Drinks til Midnite………….. 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 2007
HEAR 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/..........................................................Benny
TO BE ANNOUCED TUESDAY, APRIL 22!
ON SALE THIS SATURDAY, APRIL 26 AT 10AM!

SHERYL CROW
with special guest SHAWN MULLINS
Thursday, May 22 • 8 p.m.
Fabulous Fox Theatre
$50, $45
VIP seats are also available

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/. .............................................
.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+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++



April Arts & Wine presentsDEEPER SHADE OF BLUESPerformed by Joel P. E. KingApril 24-27Thurs. - Sat @ 8pmSun @ 6pmTHE SPACE320-24 N. Vandeventer St. Louis, MO 63108Admisson $10



LME presents HIGH SOCIETY on April 26, at VITO’S is located at 3515 Lindell Blvd in Grand Center one block east of Grand and Lindell. You will enjoy an assortment of hors d'oeuvres while vibing to the sounds of DJ REMINISE. The mix will be incredible, the dance floor will be packed, and we will be bringing you another facet of the LME experience! Music starts at 10pm and the party doesn’t end until 3am!For more info contact info@lme-stl.com

Soul stylz and Ray Hills present zodiac connection J Buck's {DownTown} 1000 Clark AveSaint Louis Mo 63102Saturday} 04.26.08}9pm-2:45amATTIRE COLOR CODE: TAURUS & GEMINITAURUS & GEMINI wear all shades of Turquoise and GoldAll TAURUS & GEMINI Ladies FREE ALL NIGHT Wearing Color Code{Special Super Star Edition} The Hottest Photographers from around Saint LouisGuests come in Attire of your Choice (SEXY UPSCALE) $5 B4 11:00PM For Free Birthday Celebration mailto:Email%7DInfo@soulstylz.com


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
















EVENT SPOTLIGHT









DERRTY ENT AND LOOS ECANNON PRESENT DERRTY ENT VS LOOSE CANNON ENT, 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.... (CLICK ON PIC FOR DETAILS)

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/














AUDITION BITZSexy Hair is looking for 20 – 30 FEMALE models (with short, medium or long hair length) to be used as haircut, updo and/or models for a runway show in St. Louis , MO. The artists will be demonstrating a variation of layered haircuts, so the haircut models MUST be willing to cut, not trim their hair. All models must be between the ages of 15 & 30 (Models 15 - 17 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the model call (but not necessarily for the show). There will be an Open Model Call on SATURDAY, April 26, 2008 at 11:00am.
The show will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2008 from 9:00am-6:00pm and on Monday, April 28, 2008 from 9am-4pm.
*****PLEASE E-MAIL BACK (with the model's first and last name and parent's first and last name if applicable , your phone number(s) with area code(s), and the best time to reach you if needed)
so we can put the model's name on a list to Sexy Hair and send you the tryout and show location (Downtown St. Louis MO).......................................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.





HELP BITZ

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 Tiesday 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




UPDATE: 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..............
Check out DJ Soundz every Friday nite spinnin on the 1s ans2s at the Loft on Olive............


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.netFor 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!