ITS ASH WEDNESDAY
TIME TO GET ‘TOWNED!
To cap off the celebration of Black History Month in the Arts we highlight an artist who is alive: Jackie Joyner-Kersee.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee (born March 3, 1962 in East St. Louis, Illinois) is a retired American athlete, ranked among the all-time greatest athletes in the women's heptathlon as well as in the women's long jump. She won three gold, one silver, and two bronze Olympic medals, in those two different events. Sports Illustrated for Women magazine voted Joyner-Kersee the Greatest Female Athlete of the 20th century, just ahead of Babe Didrikson Zaharias.
She was inspired to compete in multi-disciplinary track & field events after seeing a 1975 made-for-TV movie about Babe Didrikson Zaharias.
Joyner-Kersee attended college at the University of California at Los Angeles, where she starred in both track & field and in women's basketball from 1980-1985. In basketball, she played forward, and she scored less than 20 points during her collegiate career. She was honored on 21 February 1998 as one of the 15 greatest players in UCLA women's basketball. [1]
In 1988, Joyner-Kersee established the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, which provides youth, adults, and families with the resources to improve their quality of life with special attention directed to East St. Louis, Illinois. In 2007, Jackie Joyner-Kersee along with Andre Agassi, Muhammad Ali, Lance Armstrong, Warrick Dunn, Mia Hamm, Jeff Gordon, Tony Hawk, Andrea Jaeger, Mario Lemieux, Alonzo Mourning, and Cal Ripken, Jr. founded the "Athletes for Hope", a charitable organization, which helps professional athletes get involved in charitable causes and inspires millions of non-athletes to volunteer and support the community
In April 2001, Joyner-Kersee was voted the "Top Woman Collegiate Athlete of the Past 25 Years. As of August 2008[update], Joyner-Kersee holds the world record in heptathlon along with six all time best results and her long jump record of 7.49 m is second on the long jump all time list. In addition to heptathlon and long jump, she was a world class athlete in 100 m hurdles and 200 meters being as of June 2006[update] in top 60 all time in those events.
AND NOW TO THE ART AND ENT NEWZ IN THE MO AND THE ILLI:
Fat Tuesday in ST. Louis was mild but last weekend was when the celebration occurred. There was a Parade of Lights Tuesday that was held near the major downtown casino, Lumiere Place. Other St Louis events were going around but reportedly none came close to the Parade of Lights (well, it was a during the week when folk couldn’t really drank their guts out cuz of work the next day). But over the weekend, especially Saturday, thousands and thousands of revelers packed the historic Soulard neighborhood Saturday for the annual Mardi Gras Grand Parade and ensuing street party.
Organizers and police reported large crowds and the expected levels of mayhem. By 11 p.m., 110 revelers had been arrested; most were minors in possession of alcohol. Six people were injured after a side panel fell off their float. The incident happened after the parade near Tucker Boulevard and Lafayette Avenue. About 12 people fell off the float; six suffered injuries such as broken bones.
This year, 18 vehicles were towed from the parade route and surrounding neighborhoods. At the past two Mardi Gras parades, more than 140 cars were towed when a police sergeant with deep ties to St. Louis Metropolitan Towing enlisted off-duty officers to work with the company's tow truck drivers. This year, only on-duty officers called for tows and exclusively used the city's towing agency.
About 20 people fell off a float when a board on the side of the float broke. Some had broken bones, but none had life-threatening injuries.Still, police say the crowd was mostly well-behaved.The crowds were large despite cold and blustery conditions on Saturday.
Well at least no one got shot cuz seven got the bullet while celebratin’ Tuesday in Nawlins when two people shot at them!
According to reports, the Swagga Like Us Concert that was held at the Chaifetz Arena was more of a free for all for acts to stage than an actual concert.
More than 5,000 fans came out for “Swagger’ which was part One of 100.3 The Beat’s 10 year anniversary celebration. It was also a goodbye of sorts for headliner T.I. perform in one of his several concerts before his year long incarceration in March. According to reviews, T.I. was in rap mode without the flash and dash performing some of his greatest and current hits. He also commented on the referenced the Rihanna-Chris Brown fiasco by saying she was “going through some shit and that his homeboy was going through some shit.”
Ludacris, who preceded T.I. we heard got off the stage as quickly as he got on stage and was upstaged by his DTP label mate Shawna who sped rapped on two mikes.
St. Louis rapper Murphy Lee, who was the evening’s surprise guest, rapped his usual rap through a lot of tech difficulties, much to lee’s vocalized disappointment. He also reportedly commented on rumors that St. Lunatic leader Nelly sabotaged his solo career denying any validity to the attack and blamed himself for his solo efforts.
Added performer Jim Jones was reportedly the weakest of the acts whose performance was scattered and discombobulated. (We also heard that Jim Jones and his camp was hosting party thrown after the concert at Blackmon’s Plaza).
Other performers included STL area acts: 100.3 The beat’s Shorty Da Kid (Pictured) , East St. Louis rap duo UnLadyLike, Yung Ro with singer Tydis; and “ Vic Damone with singer Bradd Young.Lincoln U marching band Marching Musical Storm opened the concert.
http://videos.stltoday.com/p/video?id=3199390
There were two other celebrity driven visits to kids that went down last weekend as well. One was boxing great Evander Holyfield spoke with students in St. Charles last Friday. To see the video go to
The other was 2009 Grammy Award nominees and prior winners Boyz II Men visited the Ronald McDonald House in St. Louis Friday to play Guitar Hero with some of the ailing children staying at the house. The talented trio was in town for a concert that was held at Ameristar Casino.
Also, Rapper Rick Ross will be performing live this Wednesday night, Feb. 25 at Club Society for Derrty ENT’s Big B’s (Nelly’s Bodyguard)b-day bash (SEE EVENT BITZ BELOW) We wonder is Ross will get into the beef he has with rapper 50 Cent and him quoted as saying his upcoming CD Deeper Than Rap LP (due March 24) will outsell 50.
St. Louis based Cedric the Entertainer has been on the roll lately. Just fresh off his co-hosting his All Star Comedy Jam in Phoenix with Shaq during NBA ALL Star Weekend, will star in a new comedy pilot for ABC.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actor will executive produce and star in "The Law," which "revolves around reserve police officers for the LAPD who balance their full-time off-duty lives with the excitement of being weekend cops."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Speaking of STL comics, Funny Phat Tuesdays is having a tribute comedy show for the late comic Rodney Winfield who passed last week. The show iis hosted by STL comic Darius Bradford (SEE EVENT BITZ BELOW) . And speaking of Bradford, we heard him on Paternity Test Tuesdays on the radio synidated (RADIO ONE) show, Rickey Smiley Show and Deez Nutz. Is he a semi regular on Smiley's show now?
Just fresh off of hosting a V-Day Party at NBA All Star Weekend in Phoenix, Nelly got the green light for his own music variety Tv show. “Nelly’s Night in Vegas” is the title for the series and Nelly as host and co-executive producer. It’s unclear at the moment when and where the show will air, but the series reportedly will to be shot in Las Vegas. Each week NELLY’S NIGHT IN VEGAS will bring Hollywood’s biggest stars to Vegas, It will be an ongoing wild, high stakes party where you can bet on anything and probably everything happening. The show promises to reflect the full spectrum of the Vegas life with an endless supply of inspiration and content for Nelly and his spectrum of sidekicks, beautiful women and entourage. His private jet and red carpet lifestyle will add to the weekly excitement as will his interviews with film, television and music’s biggest stars. Well, we here at OUTTOWN are down for this, but it would have been nice if the STL coulda got in as the spot for the series (Maybe Nelly’s Night in the Lou?” ). We have plenty venues here that could have been used (Old Rock House, Club Society, Lumiere Place or even his spot Skybox) and brought Hollywood here to mix and mingle with the local stars. Oh well. Maybe we’re just wishful thinkin.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Cardinals outfielder Ryan Ludwick told Team USA organizers he would not participate in next month's World Baseball Classic unless assured a starting position.Since manager Davey Johnson has projected Ryan Braun, Grady Sizemore and Brad Hawpe as the starters, the decision was made for Ludwick before final rosters were announced Sunday afternoon.
And speaking of baseball, have you got your tickets yet for the All Star Game that will be in the Lou in July?
Tony Scott of the Tony Scott Show celebrated his 20th anniversary at Clear Channel last Friday. As a surprise, his former radio colleague and friend Marc Clark—who was a co-host with Scott from 1992 to 1999-- flew in from Baltimore(where he held down the morning show , Big Phat Morning Show” at Radio One's until late 2008) to be a guest on his afternoon show to celebrate with Scott and his co-host Tammie Holland (who gave OUTTOWN the heads up 2 weeks ago). On his first day back in St. Louis, Clarke said, “ I got lost downtown. It has changed so much here. The Airport lost my luggage. I’m glad Levine’s (clothing) still here. They had 6 X jeans. I’m just 3 X. On air he also told the famous Uncle earl death rattle story among others reminisced. He also mentioned that he was currently unemployed (radio One let him go November 2008)Former colleagues also called in to wish Scott well including personalities JoJo and Eric Mychaels. Scott also told the listeners that he finally got authorized his own parking space at the clear Channel garage. To secure the deal, Scott took his plea to the public and had people to voice their demands for him to receive his own parking space (he even had folk to go to his website as well, keyword: YEAHHHH MAN) Scott didn’t seem to surprised on air with his surprise with Clarke, but then again, maybe the surprise was caught off air before they got on air. Who knows. In related news, former co-host of the Tony Scott and the Breakfast Crew STL based comedian Guy Torry visited the Lou and sat in on the Tony Scott Show Tuesday. He did his Five Rules (the don’t dos) like he did when he was on the show and said that he has been on the comic tour circuit (OUTTOWN reported he was doing shows in DC with the Stuck On Stupid Tour. He also said that he just finished up the movie, Wiffler: The Ted Whitfield Story. In it he plays Reverend Cash.
Some Missouri based Yorkies who were rescued from a puppy mill in Greene County, Mo., were on the Oprah Winfrey show last Friday. The dogs and Humane Society of Missouri Prez Kathy Warnick hit the big time when a producer for Winfrey's show responded to an e-mail about the rescue. Some 90 Yorkshire terriers and one shih-tzu were taken in the raid Feb. 13 on an unlicensed breeding center near Springfield. The Humane Society wanted the dogs to be on Oprah's show to get attention about the plight of animals in puppy mills. Five actually appeared onstage. Jae said the animals are not yet ready for adoption but may be within the next month. More info at www.hsmo.org We are sure the Humane Society have had floods of calls to adopt the dogs since the show.
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and St. Louis resident Ernie Isley of the Isley Brothers, will be performing with the St. Louis All-Stars at BB’s Jazz Blues & Soups at 10 p.m. March 7. To get more information at www.bbsjazzbluessoups.com
According to stltoday.com, Michael Kaas, a producer for the CBS "Early Show," was in town Tuesday doing advance work for an episode about how malls are responding to the difficult economic situation. The producer was here to check out ArtSpace — the new arts colony that the Regional Arts Commission has helped create with Centrum Properties, which owns Crestwood Court mall (formerly Crestwood Plaza). The unorthodox approach to using the vacated space in a retail mall has artists and cultural groups renting the space for low cost and using it for performances, galleries, studios, theaters and sales areas. The episode is scheduled to be broadcast within the next two weeks.
What’s up with the report that STL native opera diva Grace Bumbry mistook Mayor Francis Slay as a pastor and called him Pastor Slay? According to St. Louis Post Columnist Deb Peterson she reffered to him as such when he gave her the key to the city last Friday? That’s TMP. She was in town to also accept a “Lifetime Achievement in the Arts” award from the St. Louis Argus Foundation and AmerenUE.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
A shocker in the STL journalism field as veteran news reporter Alvin Reid, city editor and reporter for 12 years for the weekly St. Louis American, was fired from his job Monday. Reid said he was told he was being let go for economic reasons. YOURS TRULY, worked with Reid when he was a copy editor from 2001 to 2003 and know for a fact that he was one of the talented and nose-to-the-grindstone reporters in the STL area. Well, at least he still can be seen as a guest panelist on the PBS TV talk show “Donnybrook.”
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Speaking of budget cuts, The Missouri Arts Council has been informed of a budget cut of more than $5 million for fiscal year 2009. According to stltoday, the Missouri Arts Council will still honor all of its current commitments to its grantees that have been approved. The Council will be suspending Monthly Strategic Grants for the remainder of (fiscal year 2009). Any grants already submitted for FY09 that have not been approved will not be funded.
Recent St. Louis Argus Lifetime Achievement Award winner, jazz diva Denise Thimes will perform at Mckendree College March 5. For ticket info call (618) 537-4481, 1-800-BEARCAT or go to www.mckendree.edu
Just last week, Mathews-Dickey PR Veep Barbara Washington released a gospel CD to fund scholarships for the center during its annual celbration Now this week, she will be honored when she will become the first woman to be inducted into the Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame. Washington got the honor because of her behind-the-scenes and on-the-scenes work with baseball greats such as Lou Brock, Ozzie Smith, Stan Musial, Cardinals Manager Tony La Russa and the late Jack Buck. She has worked with the outstanding roster in an effort to keep baseball alive and well for the children of St. Louis. Washington will be inducted at the organization's 35th Annual Awards Dinner March 21 at the Sheraton West Port Chalet.
St. Louis actor Ariane Kays has just been cast in the new vampire movie "Raven" starring Weston Cage, Nicolas Cage's son. The film, which started filming this week in Hollywood, is due out in late summer or fall. Kays last role was the Glamour Girl on the HBO series "Entourage."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
OUTTOWN was flipping the channels last Saturday and spotted a rerun of Tony Rock;s TV OBNE show, Funny Spot where comics are featured ala Def Comedy Jam—the PG version. St. Louis comic Arvin Mitchell was one of the featured comics of this particular show. Others featured were Rodman, Geoff Brown, and Retha Jones. On the show, Mitchell—who was a bit geeked to be on the show-- did his standard fare of impressions (Firemarshall Bill), the sight gag of a guy posing for a picture with one eye shut from a Crazy Glue incident and the Gay in the Military impression.
++++++++++++++++++++++
STL guitarist and producer Wildmann is having a private listening party for his upcoming CD “Reunion” this Friday at Binion’s. We got the invite so we will report to yawl how it went next week!
A new club called Chill just opened last week It is located at 3515 Choteau on the same building as the alternative club the Complex.
+++++++++++++++++++++
IN THE MIA FILE—What happened to Konnections’ Terry Cantley?
MIA FOUND model Avery Grinston who is currnetly a student at Southwestern Illinois College.
WORDZ TO THE WHYZ
Why did the camera cut to Angelina Jolie when Jennifer Aniston was on stage? Why did Whoopi wear that horrible dress? Why wasn’t any of the actors in Slumdog Millionaire nominated? Why was the best Why was Ben Stiller imitating Jaquin Phoenix costume? Why was the director of “Slumdog” jumping up and down like a pogo stick win he won? Why didn’t Kate Winslet know where her parents were in the audience when she won? a winner balance the Oscar on his chin? Why did Sean Penn say “You Commy – homo loving sons of guns: after he won Best Actor? Why was Hugh Jackman’s musical numbers the best thing on the show? Why didn’t Taraji P Henson win? Why was Cuba Gooding tryin to get “brotha-brotha” when he blasted about Oscar nominee Robert Downey for taking roles from black actors in “Tropic Thunder.” ? Why did Jerry Lewis seem like he was censoring himself when he talked after winning a Lifetime Achievement Award Oscar? And why was Eddie Murphy picked to present Lewis the award? Why did high-wire artist Philippe Petit balanced the Oscar on his chin after he won for Best Documentary? Why did Oscar winner Alan Arkin butcher actor Phillip Seymour Hoffman’s name by saying "Seymour" Philip Hoffman when presenting him his nomination? And why was the awards almost 4 hours long?
STL-ICIOUS (Who's hot this week in the STL?)Cornell Boone and Teresa Jenee
Cornell Boone. The creator of the popular promotions group, Soul Stylz. This dapper dan has added the luxury and entertainment portion to his organization. Dubbed” Modern Luxury,” the monthly event series is geared toward the upscale socialites offering an elegant atmosphere. The new series begins this Thursday with their host THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ATLANTA’s star LISA HARTWELL (SEE EVENT SPOTLIGHT BELOW).
Teresa Jenee. This lovely young singer and keyboardist has been on a roll performing recently. After wowing them at Café Soul’s Finale Show at Old Rcok House in December, she has been performing non-stop at such STL venues such as Soulstages at the House of Comedy, the Love Movement at Nubia, and Suite Soul Spot. This Friday she will be one of the featured acts at Atomic Cowboy (SEE EVENT BITZ BELOW). And her EP is off the chain!
EVENT-BITZ
Rapper Rick Ross will be performing live this Wednesday night, Feb. 25 at Club Society for Derrty ENT’s Big B’s (Nelly’s; Bodyguard)b-day bash. For more info call 314-393-0294.
Songs From the New World A Night Of Beautiful Music and Astonishing Stories!! GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! 314-865-1995 THRU FEBRUARY - 28, 2009 THURSDAY - SATURDAY AT 8 PM - SATURDAY 12/28 at 2 PM and 8 PM $20 FOR ADULTS / $18 FOR SENIORS & STUDENTS JOIN US FOR OUR OPENING NIGHT PARTY ON FEB. 12! DIRECTED by: LAURA ROBBINS 10 PERFORMANCES AT TOWER GROVE ABBEY 2336 TENNESSEE AVE. / SAINT LOUIS, MO 63104 For Tickets and Information CALL: 314-865-1995 www.StrayDogTheatre.org
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, St. Louis Alumni Grown & Sexy Happy Hour, Thursday, February 26, 2009 to support scholarships for St. Louis area youth.This is a great cause to support! The price of admission, $10, includes free drinks and food. The dress attire is business casual, and we start at 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM. To reply to this message, follow the link below:http://www.facebook.com/n/?inbox/readmessage.php&t=1030626005553&aref=20166502
SOUL STYLZ present MODERN LUXURY: THE MERCEDES-BENZ ARRIVAL & THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ATL LISA" on Thursday, February 26 at 9:00pm.Event: MODERN LUXURY: THE MERCEDES-BENZ ARRIVAL & THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ATL LISA HARTWELL (Keith Sweat's ex-boo) " Thursday, February 26 at 9:00pm; F15TEEN Restaurant & Lounge. To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=58545168920
Stress Free Fridays> > Friday, February 27, 2009> > 5pm-1:30am> > > > Escalade (formerly Hadley's)> > 7828 Olive Boulevard> > University City, MO 63130> > 314-726-3250> > > > Join us this Friday, February 27, 2009 as Stress Free> > Fridays the hottest new venue to hit University City,> > Escalade (formerly Hadley's)...enjoy great drinks,> food,> > and the best DJ's in St. Louis that will have you> > dancing the night away...ARRIVE EARLY as we are> expecting a> > huge turnout...you cannot afford to miss all of this> fun and> > excitement...remember, Stress Free Fridays starts> promptly> > at 5pm, so start your well deserved weekend in style!> > > > If you are celebrating a special event in your life,> email> > Mario at wayne_mario@yahoo.com or Mark Anthony at> > maj_826@yahoo.com and we will recognize you and your> special> > event.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
Serenity Arts and Entertainment present Pam Green gospel CD Launch Concert Feb 27 at the Metro Christian Worship Center, 3452 Potomac Street, St. Louis. 7 p.m. FREE.
CLUB EVENT (CLICK ON PIC TO ENLARGE)
The Eye Candy Grand Finale is here again! Friday Feb. 27th there will be 2 Parties in 1! The Grand Finale and the February Eye Candy Party. The Grand Finale competition will start at 10:30 sharp and the February Eye Candy Party will start immediately after! There will be Champagne bottle specials all night!
Who will be the Miss 2008 Eye Candy Model of the year and Miss February Eye Candy Model? The 2008 Eye Candy Model of the year will win: a $2,000 Spokesmodel contract with MPAC and will become the new host of MPAC TV and the new face of Eye Candy! Please log on and vote on the 2008 Eye Candy Model of the year @ www.stleyecandy.com.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Team SCRABBLE Party, Sat. Feb 28, 2009, 6-9pm at the Carondelet Family YMCA.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Eugene B. Redmond, Award Winning Poet, Sat. Feb 28, 2009 3-5pm, Afro World, 7276 Natural Bridge Rd., St. Louis MO. 314.389.5194 for more info.
Ezekeil of Imperial Events and Entertainment company and Young Dip of 104.1 present Fashion Show/Party, Saturday, Feb. 28 at Club F15teen, 1900 Locust. Doors at 8 p.m.; Show at 9 p.m. Performances by some of the hottest artsist wile the models rip the runway. DJ reminisce on the 1s and 2s. After set following show and b-day edition with Ezekiel Obasi. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Computers R US at 314.653.2787 or I AM Clothing at 314.726.2224. Fro RSVP info call 314.517.8385 or ezekeilobasi@hotmail.com
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Lady Dragons 2nd Annual Blue Light Basement Party Feb 28 at Lights on Broadway/Starlight Room, 8350 n Broadway, 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.. FREE FOOD . 50/50 raffle. $10 ADV; $15 Door. Cash Bar. Tickets contact Mousie at 314.322.6896, Bunny at 314.723.2978 or Bright Eyes at 314.322.6896. Also available at the Starlight Room.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Contact Info Phone:314. 241. 5233 Email:
thehouseofcomedystl@gmail
The Project Language Expo is clearly somewhere you want to be the weekend of February 28th THRU March 1st. This will be a fun, friendly, family atmosphere full of entertainment, networking, shopping, contests, education, workshops, fashion shows, spoken word poets, authors, colleges, artists and much more. So mark the date on your calendar. LAST CHANCE FOR BOOTH OPPORTUNITIES CALL CEDRIC @ 636.279.0004 or VISIT www.mentorprises.org
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
MOCHA'S CORNER
A SPECIAL BEST DAMNED FRIDAYS PERIOD. FEB 27 AT LUSH.. EVERYBODY FREE TIL 11PM LADIES DRINK FREE TIL 11PM. RON BROWZ PERFORMING LIVE . $100 BOTTLES OF MOET ROSE TIL MIDNITECASUAL DRESS CODE NO HAT NO TEES OR HOODIES (CLICK ON PIC ABOVE TO ENLARGE)
ASK HOW TO GET A FREE B-DAY PARTY!
MOCHA"S TALENT SPOTLIGHT
Torre Sanders, born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, introduces a fresh perspective, emphasizing an appreciation for music's power to inspire, connect and uplift. Sanders is a singer, songwriter and producer that play's guitar. He honors us with his one-of-a-kind sound blending subtle hip-hop, pop, r&b beats with rock riffs. Outside of his passion of crafting remarkable music, Torre's has an uncanny niche for acting, modeling, film-making and is very pronounced in various action sports.With his latest release on AlphaTorre Records, Torre Sanders not only delivers high energy performances, fresh and inspiring writing skills, he displays determination, ambition, creativity and an unearthly charisma that is unforgettable in addition he is also heading up his own venture. Each song that is included on his debut record "The Next Man" from AlphaTorre Records, has been under his creative direction.Torre Sanders first single "Ghetto Girl" is already heating up the airwaves from the Midwest to the South. The follow-up single "Party Mode" is already creating a buzz with the DJ's in the clubs all over the US.As for the label AlphaTorre Records, Torre Sanders is focused and creating more exceptional music that blends all elements of Pop, R&B and Rock to further establish AlphaTorre as not just one man, one sound but as a multi-genre label originating in St. Louis, Missouri. Torre Sanders will set the precence of sound, style and business for AlphaTorre Records. For more info go to: http://torre-sanders.com/epk/epk1.html
AND
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.Othercredits 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; and featured artist on Russell Simmons’ Def Poetry Jam 2007 HEAR HIM SHARE HIS LIFE at WWW.MYSPACE.COM/TEVSMITH
AND
Az One is composed of sisters: Ayanna whose name means "Beautiful Flower" and Niambi is "Melody." It is no coincidence they were given these names at birth by their parents. when you hear Az One perform their voices come together to create a perfect melody. They are beautiful flower with perfect melody; that continues to grow, blossom, feed off of the energy; to truly create a deliverance theat has been long overdue with satisfaction. Az One will captivate you with their presence, talent, gorgeous looks and down to earth personalities.Az One started singing in church and musicals around the Midwest. After both sisters graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale with bachelors degrees, they moved back to their hometown of Springfield, IL, and started performing at open mics and booking events around the area. The demand for their live performance encouraged the to relocate to a larger city and they decided on St Louis.
Az One released their debut Album titled The Jump Off in February 2007. Niambi & Ayanna were the executive producers. They also wrote every song on the album;featured on 99.7 Kiss FM in Springfield, IL. for the new music knockout. The first independen artist ever featured. Az One competed against The Goo Goo Dolls and won; Opened up for Cassidy and Common in St. Louis, MO and Twista in Springfield,IL.; Performed The National Anthem for Philadelphia 76ers Andre Iguodala's NBA Celebrity Charity Event; Named as one of the St. Louis artists about to 'blow up" in the St. Louis Whirl Magazine; Received and exclusive interview on St. Louis Radio One station 104.1FM; Selected as the featured artists of the week on the Clear Channel Music Website.2008: Performed the National Anthem for the Professional Inline Hockey Association.; Selected as the featured artist on Vibe Magazine's Blackplanet.com; received an exclusive interview on ESPN's sports radio in St Louis,MO.This sister-duo of Niambi & Ayanna Rowland sing "Eyez onMe."(to buy copy of Eyez On Me) http://www.ourstage.com/music/archive/entry/AIWERKRPQOCW-eyez-on-me
Check out Mocha Latte's weekly column COFFEE TALK every week in the Evening Whirl .
For more info on these items and events, contact Miss Latte at 314.646.9917 or sgalvin26@yahoo.com
MYNISTA 's WELCOME T STRAIGHT STREET CONCERT SEREIS CONTINUES: 03/28/2009 07:00 PMTampa, FLTalon's NEW REFLECTION CD Release PartyFor concert info go to http://www.mynistamusic.com/
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
FOX FILES
FOX SPOTLIGHTS
Ne-Yo’s “Year of the Gentleman” tour comes to the Fox Theatre at 7 p.m. March 1. Musiq Soulchild and Jazmine Sullivan are also on the bill. Tickets are $39.50-$59.50, with a limited number of Gold Circle seating available. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Jan. 16 at MetroTix outlets, http://www.metrotix.com/, 314-534-1111, and at the box office.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
AND
Comedian Robin Williams bring his “Weapons of Self-Destruction” tour to the Fox Theatre at 8 p.m. March 30.This is an “evening with” event.Tickets are $58-$98, on sale at 10 a.m. Jan. 17. Get tickets at MetroTix outlets, http://www.metrotix.com/, 314-534-1111, and at the box office. This is Williams’ first comedy tour in seven years.
UPCOMING FOX SHOWZ: CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY, March 17-29, 2009; Dance St. Louis presents STOMP, April 3-5, 2009HAIRSPRAY, April 24-26, 2009Dance St. Louis presents RIVERDANCE, May 1-3, 2009; A CHORUS LINE, May 12-24, 2009RENT, June 2-7, 2009MARY POPPINS, AUGUST 13-30, 2009; THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, September 23-October 17, 2009
STOMP April 3-5, 2009 Performances are: Friday & Saturday at 8pm; Saturday & Sunday at 2pm Fabulous Fox Theatre – 527 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103 Tickets go on sale Sunday, March 1 through MetroTix at 314/534-1111 or online at www.metrotix.com. Tickets will also be available at the Fox Theatre box office. Prices range from $26-$60 depending on performance date & seat location. STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. As “USA Today” says, STOMP finds beautiful noises in the strangest places.” STOMP. See what all the noise is about.
+++++++++++++++
"UG Project- Live @ Sol 3/5 Lamar Harris, Mo Egeston & Duane Williams" on Thursday, March 5 at 9:00pm.Event: UG Project- Live @ Sol 3/5 Lamar Harris, Mo Egeston & Duane Williams "live souful house music. with subs. hooray subs."What: PerformanceHost: Mo EgestonStart Time: Thursday, March 5 at 9:00pmEnd Time: Friday, March 6 at 1:00amWhere: Sol LoungeTo see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=132146285076&aref=20040317
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
The 2nd Annual Traffic Music Awards 06:00 PM, March 1. Come for a celebration of urban music. The Roberts Orpheum Theater 416 North 9th Street, St. Louis, MO 63101 314.588.0388 for info
++++++++++++++++++++++
Funny Phat Tuesday's "Tribute to St. Louis's great comedian Rodney Winfield"What: PerformanceHost: Darious BradfordStart Time: Tuesday, March 3 at 7:00pmEnd Time: Tuesday, March 3 at 11:00pmWhere: Twilight Room/Lights on BroadwayTo see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=64314079107&aref=20142811
Don’t forget your tickets to Afriky Lolo’s 6th Annual Dance Celebration – The Goddess, Zaouli! Join us Friday, March 13 at 8PM and/or Saturday, March 14 at 8PM.Saturday 2pm show is already sold outTickets are $25 and can be purchased by calling 314-276-1913 or at COCA’s box office.
BIG TAH presents a ROADTRIP TO THE ATL March 19, to March 22, 2009. LEAVING FROM THE LOFT - HEADED TO ATL 3112 OLIVE, Info: 314.713.0926 Email: bigtah06@hotmail.com WE TAKING IT FROM THE STL TO THE ATL ON A 3 DAY 2 NIGHT BUS TOUR- IT'S GOING DOWN- WE WILL BE HITTING UP THE HOTTEST CLUBS IN THE CITY- THE MALLS- THE RESTAURANTS- LANDMARKS, ETC. BRING YO CAMERAS, YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU MIGHT SEE IN THE A TOWN. BOOK YOU R SEAT TODAY- $100 DEPOSIT BOOKS YOUR SEAT- CONTACT ME 713-0926 OR BIGTAH06@HOTMAIL.COM
BOOK YOUR SEAT TODAY! ONCE AGAIN FOLKS ITS GOING DOWN- WE GONE PARTY FROM STL TO ATL - TRIP INLCUDES 3 DAYS - 2 NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMODATIONSROUND TRIP BUS RIDE HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY BEFORE HITTING THE CLUBSBREAKFASTTHE MORNING OF ARRIVAL MORE FUN THAN YOU WILL HAVE FOR A WHILE- WE WILL BE IN THE A - IM TALKING CLUB DREAMS -MAGIC CITY - VELVET ROOM - LENOX MALL - THE UNDERGROUND MALL- CNN BUILDING - GLADY 'S KNIGHTS CHICKEN AND WAFFLES- YOU NAME IT - WE IN THERE-
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
St. Louis Fashion Week March 23-29 2009 http://www.saintlouisfashionweek.com/
++++++++++++++++++++++++
AUDITION-BITZ
HOT 104.1 IS LOOKING FOR ST. LOUIS’ NEXT HIP HOP OR R&B STAR!!! On SATURDAY, Feb, 28. The station will hold auditions for singers and rappers to be signed on Ludacris’ Disturbing Tha Peace Label. The auditions will take place at Club Casino, located at 6830 State Street in East St. Louis. The first 104 registrants onsite will be able to audition (cuz of the station dial 104, get it?) for more info, go to http://www.hot1041stl.com/
INTO THE WOODS by Stephen Sondheim, Bookby James Lapine opens September 17, 2009 and closes October 10, 2009.
Musical: Audition Dates & Times Monday March 16, 2009 (Audition Space opens at 6:30 PM) 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Audition Appts. / Sing only. Sunday March 22, 2009 (Audition Space opens at 3:00 PM) 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM Audition Appts. / Sing only. Sunday, March 22, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM Final Callbacks / Sing and act.
Information: Location: Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63104 Non-Equity only. Musical auditions will be held on the Tower Grove Abbey Main Stage Seeking: Singer / Actor Prepare 16-32 bars of a song. Provide sheet music appropriately marked and in your key. Provide one headshot & resume. All positions are paid. Stray Dog Theatre honors diversity and non-traditional casting practices.
MUSICAL AUDITION APPOINTMENTS: Please contact Laura Robbins by E-MAIL at straydogtheatre@gmail.com for an audition appointment. NO CALLS please!In the e-mail please specify which day you are available and if you want to audition for the plays or the musical or both. Laura will get back to you to confirm time.
Plays (Casting authority: Gary F. Bell)
AS BEES IN HONEY DROWNby Douglas Carter Beane opens December 3, 2009 and closes December 19, 2009.
THE EFFECT OF GAMMA RAYS ON MAN-IN-THE-MOON MARIGOLDSby Paul Zindel opens March 4, 2010 and closes March 20, 2010.
OUR TOWNby Thornton Wilder opens June 10, 2010 and closes June 26, 2010.
Plays: Audition Dates & TimesSpecial Appearance
Information: Location: Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63104
More About The Shows(Personal research into the shows is highly recommended.)
HELP BITZ SPOTLIGHT.
HELP-BITZ. The Better family Life Leadership Academy is seeking young men to teach them the basics of manhood. They will be educated about the importance of employment, family and neighborhood responsibility. For more info, call Errol Bush at 314.381.8200 or visit the Community Outreach office, located at 6017 Natural Bridge ………………………Actress Shawn Guy Pitts is seeking help: Recently, she received her official certificate as a certified trained S.A.R.T. Advocate through the YWCA.S.A.R.T. (stands for Sexual Assault Response Team.)As an advocate, she will be on-call to respond to victims of sexual assault and rape that present to the emergency room and provide them with support, empowerment, and resources. As with any non-profit organization, funds are always an issue. This year, the deficit is even greater as well as the number of women who are beginning to report these devastating crimes.We are approaching the holiday season, which for many is a time of giving and sharing. She ask that you PLEASE consider donating money to the Sexual Assault Center. Women (and sometimes men) present to the emergency room from all walks of life, economic standing, and backgrounds as victims.The YWCA Sexual Assault Center provides counseling, clothing, advocacy, resources, etc. to victims. Your donations will help to make this awesome refuge bigger and better. If you donate AFTER November 1st, you can send your donations DIRECTLY to the Center at 140 N Brentwood, Clayton, MO 63105. ....................................Nar Js Music Evangelist Nakisha Joseph, 7740 Dale Ave. 314.313.2288............................ G & G Casting is currently scouting talent. Based out of Chicago, G &G was hoping to connect with some folks in St. Louis. If you know of any individuals who are serious about their craft and have experience and/or professional head shots and resumes please let me know. G & G is currently revising their web site, but they do have a basic splash page. I have attached the link as a reference: http://www.gandgcasting.com/ Please direct talent to me, that I may review their material and touch base with each individual before it's forwarded to the Executive Director. If talent sends incomplete or inadequate material directly to G & G it may get discarded. Call or e-mail me with any questions. Talk to you soon!Tamekeyo House630-729-4169......................................Joel P. E. King, owner of JPEK CreativeWorks LLC and The Space, wants to make an offer to those of you who are in search for party and event space. Close to 2,000 square feet of available space for your next event, wedding party, baby shower, art exhibition and more. Here at The Space, you will acquire elegance, convenience and wonderful hospitality. The Space located at 320-24 N.Vandeventer (off Lindell Blvd. in SLU area) Contact:314.494.5976 or 314.494.9095................
ONGOING BITZ.Soup Kitchen presents a Taste of Healing every 1st Sunday of the month feat. DJ G and Needles at JMRJ Soul Food Restaurant, 2800 Olive Blvd below the Heritage House 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. $10 Web-site: http://www.myspace.com/alsmile
+++
++++++++++++++++++++
or Phone:314.503.4035
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
or http://www.soulstarent.com/
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++
+++++++++++
+++
NEW: Karaoke Thursdays Los Angeles Style Every Thursday at Club Illusion, 526 EasT Broadway in east St,. Louis. $2 Chicken wings and fires. Show at 9:30 p.m. Sign up by 9 p.m. Info: 618.567.8912.
++++++++++++++++++++++
+++
++++++++++++++++++++++
+++
+++++++++++++++
++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
NEW: Silky Soul performs every 3rd Sat at the Jazz Spot 8 p.m. 400 Wash Ave. 314.922.4387.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++
+++
+++++++++++
+++++++++++++
+++++++++++++++
or http://www.redafroqueen.com/
+++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++
for local literary group Sister’s Nineties Afrocentric literary activities for the family and youngsters.
++++++++++++++
or go to www.myspace.com/jessicadada13
+++++++++++++++
or go to his myspace page www.myspace/enochisreal.
++++++++++++
.+++++++++++++++