Wal-Mart worker dies in rush; two killed at toy store

CNN) -- Three violent deaths in two stores marred the opening of the Christmas shopping season Friday.

In the first, a temporary Wal-Mart employee was trampled to death in a rush of thousands of early morning shoppers as he and other employees attempted to unlock the doors of a Long Island, New York, store at 5 a.m., police said.

In the second, unrelated incident, two men were shot dead in a Toys "R" Us in Palm Desert, California, after they argued in the store, police said.

The toy company and authorities said the California shootings had nothing to do with shopping on Black Friday, which is historically one of the year's busiest shopping days.

The Wal-Mart worker, whom authorities did not identify, was 34 and lived in Queens, said Nassau County police Detective Lt. Michael Fleming.

"This was utter chaos as these men tried to open the door this morning," Fleming said.

Video showed as many as a dozen people knocked to the floor in the stampede of people trying to get into the Wal-Mart store, Fleming said.

The employee was "stepped on by hundreds of people" as other workers attempted to fight their way through the crowd, Fleming said.

"Several minutes" passed before others were able to clear space around the man and attempt to render aid. Police arrived, and "as they were giving first aid, those police officers were also jostled and pushed," he said.

"Shoppers ... were on a full-out run into the store," he said.

The crowd had begun forming outside the store by 9 p.m. Thursday, Fleming said. By 5 a.m. Friday, when the doors were unlocked, there were 2,000 or so shoppers, many of whom "surged forward," breaking the doors, he said.

The man was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Others in the crowd sustained minor injuries such as sprained ankles, Fleming said.

A 28-year-old pregnant woman was taken to a hospital, but "the baby is going to be OK," Fleming said. She was to be released later in the day, he said.

The California shootings occurred about 11:30 a.m. (2:30 p.m. ET), authorities said.

By the time police arrived, two men were dead from gunshot wounds, Riverside County sheriff's Sgt. Dennis Gutierrez said. He said authorities are not seeking any other suspects.

Gutierrez said that the men did not appear to be store employees and that the dispute appeared unrelated to shopping.

"There was a confrontation inside of the store. But over a toy? I don't think that is accurate," he said.

Two handguns were found near the men's bodies, Gutierrez said.

In a written statement, Toys "R" Us spokeswoman Kathleen Waugh said the shooting appeared unrelated to the heavy shopping day.

"Our understanding is that this act seems to have been the result of a personal dispute between the individuals involved," she said.

She said company officials were "outraged" by the shooting and were working with authorities to find out what happened.

Gutierrez said no one else in the store was injured. Gutierrez said no one else in the store was injured. The store remained closed Friday afternoon but was expected to open as usual Saturday. Watch police confirm two people dead at a Toys 'R' Us store »

He said authorities would not release the men's names until their families have been notified.

Daniel Watson said he was at home with his children when his wife called from the Toys "R" Us store, where she and her mother were shopping.

"All I could hear was gunshots in the back," he said. "She said, 'They're in here shooting.' I told her to run and hide, stay down and hide."

He said his wife did just that, ducking under a clothes rack until the threat was over. Watson said neither woman was hurt.

Asked about the possibility of criminal charges in the Wal-Mart death, Fleming said he would not rule it out but noted that charges would be "very difficult," as it would be "almost impossible" to identify people in the crowd from the video, and those in the front of the crowd were pushed by those behind them.

Hundreds of people may have lined up in an orderly fashion but got caught up in the rush, he said.

Wal-Mart spokesman Kelly Cheeseman issued a statement saying, "We are saddened to report that a gentleman who was working for a temporary agency on our behalf died at the store and a few other customers were injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families at this difficult time."

The company is investigating the incident, the statement said.

Officers patrolling the shopping center overnight had had concerns about the size of the crowd, Fleming said, and had tried to get those in line better organized. Wal-Mart security officers were also present overnight, but he said he did not know how many.

"I don't know what it's worth to Wal-Mart or to any of these stores that run these sales events," Fleming said, "but it has become common knowledge that large crowds do gather on the Friday after Thanksgiving in response to these sales and in an effort to do their holiday shopping at the cheapest prices.

"I think it is incumbent upon the commercial establishments to recognize that this has the potential to occur at any store. Today, it happened to be Wal-Mart. It could have been any other store where hundreds and hundreds of people gather."

Asked whether the security had been adequate, Fleming said, "In light of the outcome, in hindsight, the answer is obviously no. ... This crowd was out of control."

Indian victims include financier, journalist, actor's sister, police

(CNN) -- The chairman of one of India's fastest-growing banks, the sister of a Bollywood actor, a Times of India journalist and the chief of India's Anti-Terrorism Squad were among Indians killed in the four-day terrorist siege in Mumbai.

Eighteen foreigners, including five Americans, were killed in attacks on nine sites Wednesday through Saturday in India's commercial capital; at least 165 Indians died.

Several news outlets reported that Ashok Kapur, chairman of Yes Bank, was killed Wednesday at the Oberoi hotel.

He had gone there to have dinner with his wife and some friends, who escaped the carnage, the Indian newspaper Business Standard reported.

His body was found not in the restaurant but on the hotel's 19th floor, a bank spokesperson told the paper.

Kapur was one of the founders of the bank and held a 12 percent stake in it, Business Standard said.

His long banking career included ventures in Singapore and the Netherlands, and he was an adviser to India's wealthy Tata family, the paper reported.

Bollywood actor Ashish Chowdhury's sister, Monica Chhabaria, and her husband also were killed Wednesday at the Oberoi, CNN-IBN reported.

The actor waited outside the hotel for word of his sister, who he said had stopped answering phone calls after the siege began.

Chowdhury has appeared in numerous Indian films. He had a small role in the U.S. film "Fight Club," starring Brad Pitt.

The body of Sabina Sehgal Saikia, a Times of India consulting editor and food critic, was recovered Saturday from the Taj hotel, CNN-IBN reported.

As the terrorists were seizing control of the hotel, Saikia had sent a text message to hotel employees saying, ''They are in my bathroom,'' CNN-IBN said. She was not heard from again.

Hotel staff were also among the many dead.

Boris Rego, a management trainee at the Taj Mahal hotel, was killed Thursday, his brother told CNN-IBN. Kevin Rego said his 25-year-old brother was working in the hotel's restaurant when gunmen barged in and opened fire.

Boris Rego made several phone calls to his family in Goa, the last one coming in about 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Kevin Rego told CNN-IBN.

"There was commotion in the background. Ahh he said was 'Daddy ... Kevin ... Kevin.' Then his voice trailed off, and there was silence," Kevin Rego said.

The chairman of the company that owns the Taj told said the hotel's general manager lost his family in a fire the broke out in the hotel Wednesday night.

"I went up to him today, and he said, 'Sir, we are going to beat this. We are going to build this Taj back into what it was,' " Tata Group Chairman Ratan Tata told CNN's Fareed Zakaria.

The bodies of Karambir Kang's wife and two children of were burned beyond recognition in the fire, The Times of India reported, citing hotel sources, but it was unclear whether they were killed in the blaze.

Thousands turned out Saturday in Mumbai for the funeral of Hemant Karkare, chief of Maharashtra state's Anti-Terrorism Squad, who was shot to death Wednesday as the siege unfolded. He was one of at least 17 police officers who died in the attacks.

Karkare's cremation was delayed while his two daughters made their way home from the United States and England, The Times of India reported.

A military funeral was held Saturday in Bangalore for Maj. Sandeep Unnikrishnan, a National Security Guard commando who was killed at the Taj hotel, The Times of India reported.

The body of another Security Guard officer, Gajendra Singh, was taken to New Delhi before being transported for last rights in his native Dehradun, The Times reported. He was killed at Mumbai's Chabad House, a Jewish community center where American-born rabbi Gavriel Noach Holtzberg and his Israeli wife, Rivka, were killed along with another American rabbi, Leibish Teitelbaum.

IBN listed the other slain police officers as:

Ashok Kamte (IPS), additional commissioner of police, East Region, Mumbai.

Vijay Salaskar, police inspector, anti-extortion cell, Mumbai.

Shashank Shinde, police inspector, CST Railway Police Station, Mumbai.

Praksh P. More, police sub inspector, LT Marg Police Station

Bapusaheb Durugade, police sub inspector, L.A.1, Naigaon

Tukaram G. Omble, assistant police sub inspector, D.B. Marg Police Station

Balasaheb Bhosale, assistant police sub inspector

Arun Chitte, police constable

Jaywant Patil, police constable

Yogesh Patil, police constable

Ambadas Pawar, police constable

M.C. Chowdhary, police head constable, R.P.F.

Mukesh B. Jadhav, Home Guard constable

The Truth About Barack’s Birth Certificate

Hi everyone!

People who are determined to keep us divided start these rumors about Barack’s birth certificate to manipulate us into thinking he is not an American citizen.

The fact is Barack Obama was born in the state of Hawaii in 1961, a native citizen of the United States of America.

Learn the facts and see the birth certificate for yourself:

http://my.barackobama.com/birthcertificate

Together we can make sure these negative and divisive attacks don't affect this election.

Thanks for your help.

celebrity report.....11-24-08

Look for changes on The Tyra Banks Show next season. The 5th season kicks off next fall, and the former supermodel will be on a new network. The Tyra Banks Show is moving to the CW network due to low rating and budget cuts. The season will also be shortened to 26 weeks of new shows instead of 34.

In a surprising interview, Beyonce revealed that she has not talked to Jennifer Hudson during her time of tragedy. Beyonce and Hudson starred in the movie musical Dreamgirls, but it was Hudson who walked away with the Oscar. The past few weeks have been rough for Hudson as she deals with the tragic murders of her family: her mother, brother and seven-year old nephew. A suspect is in custody, but as of press time, still no arrests. Beyonce has been on a roll promoting her latest CD, I Am…. Sasha Fierce, but a lot of people have noticed how quiet she has been about the tragedy. Well, Beyonce fessed up and admitted the obvious, but said she is praying for Hudson and her family.

Is Michael Jackson a Muslim? NO! This is just another publicity stunt from the King Of Pop to take attention off of his financial situation and various lawsuits.

Friends and family of Actor/Comedian Katt Williams are speaking out for him. Now that he has committed himself to a mental facility, he is getting the rest he so desperately needed. Friends say he was under a lot of stress. Williams has a lot of people depending on him and many projects under his belt including movies, TV, albums and stand up shows. When he threatened to retire at the end of the year, it was his way of saying he needed a break. Williams was suffering from extreme fatigue, and he was having a hard time dealing with fame. All the groupies with the free flowing alcohol and drugs did not help. What is about our famous comedians that they fall prey to the downside of celebrity and all of its excesses (Martin Lawrence, Richard Pryor, and Dave Chappelle)? Hopefully, once Williams is released he will come out a better, well rested man.

Bobby Brown is determined to get his career back on track, and his girlfriend/manager is helping him. Brown is teaming up with New Edition members Johnny Gill and Ralph Tresvant to form a new supergroup called Heads Of State. In addition to an album, the trio plans to hit the road. A spinoff group of New Edition is nothing new. Back in the 90's, Michael Bivins, Ricky Bell, and Ronnie Devoe formed Bell Biv Devoe, and they topped the charts with the song Poison.

The Meaning Of Michelle is the cover of the new issue of Newsweek. The news magazine does a revealing look at our future First Lady Michelle Obama.

Now that we have an African American President, is it time for a black "James Bond?" Jamie Foxx says he is ready to play the role, but in a new opinion poll readers overwhelmingly voted for Will Smith. Who do you think can be the first black "James Bond…maybe Blair Underwood, how about Denzel Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, Boris Kodjoe or Terrence Howard? Let us know what you think.

Smokey Robinson says he is working on his next CD, and he says it will be all duets. Robinson says there are many people he would like to work with on the project. So far, he has lined up India.Arie and Carlos Santana. Robinson says even though he is approaching 70, he is planning to hit the road next year.

Life after Prophetess Juanita Bynum is proving to be hard for Bishop Thomas Weeks. Weeks is currently on the hunt for a new wife, but first he has to find a new church building. He was recently kicked out of his old building because he owed over $400,000 in back rent.

Last week was a mixed bag for actor Blair Underwood. First, he was named one of the Sexiest Men Alive by People magazine. Then his ABC show, Dirty Sexy Money, was cancelled.

Former Today Show Host Bryant Gumbel is trying to get help for his oldest son Bradley. Bradley Gumbel, 29, was arrested for possible D.U.I. after he was found sleeping in his car reeking of alcohol on the side of the road. Bradley was disoriented, and had no idea he had passed out. The young Gumbel faces heavy fines and jail time if convicted. In the meantime, his father wants him to get counseling.

Our get well wishes go out to David "Pop" Winans. The patriarch of the Winans family has been ill for most of the year. So far this year, he has suffered two strokes, a seizure and a heart attack.

Will there be a second season of The Real Housewives Of Atlanta? Of course the ratings for the Bravo network show were off the hook, so the show will probably return next spring. In the meantime, Playboy is calling and housewife Kim is the first to agree to pose in the magazine. There's still no word on what Nene, Sheree, Lisa or Deshawn will do.

Is Janet Jackson ready to be a mom? Will this be Miss Jackson's next step? Her career is in turmoil, and sources say her longtime boyfriend, Jermaine Dupri, wants her to start thinking in a family way. Jackson is 42, and Dupri feels the time is now to start a family.

Now that her TV show, Life On Mars, has been cancelled, a pregnant Lisa Bonet will have time to nurse her boyfriend. Bonet's boyfriend, Actor Jason Momoa, was attacked by a man with a beer bottle. The handsome actor had to get 140 stitches in his face. He had to undergo reconstructive surgery. The man in questioned was arrested and charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon.

Will Smith has been named one of the Most Fascinating People Of 2008. The Barbara Walters Special airs December 4th on ABC. Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, Tina Fey, and Michael Phelps are also featured.

Get ready for the T.D. Jakes talk show. The Bishop is coming to a TV near you next fall. Dr. Phil's son, Jay McGraw, will be producing the daytime talker. Speaking of the Bishop, his new movie, Not Easily Broken, opens in theatres early next year. The movie stars Morris Chestnut, Taraji P. Henson and Jennifer Lewis.

Toni Braxton will continue with Dancing With The Stars, but not on the small screen. Braxton has joined the touring company, and their Philadelphia stop will be in February.

The new season of American Idol: Season Number 8 kicks off January 13-14th.

For its 50th anniversary, Motown Records is releasing a new box set of songs that the fans have picked. The box set is due December 9th. The 10 disc CD will feature 191 songs from your favorite Motown stars including Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Mary Wells and Martha & The Vandellas, to name a few.

Queen Latifah will be hosting the 35th Annual People's Choice Awards to be held January 7th on CBS.

The 40th Annual NAACP Image Awards will take place on February 12th.

Lionel Richie is getting ready to release his new CD next year. Richie will be teaming up with Singer/Songwriter Ne-Yo for his next CD entitled Just Go.

Musiq (Soulchild) returns with his latest CD, On My Radio, on December 9th. The CD features his hit duet with Mary J. Blige, If U Leave.

Lee Daniels latest movie with Mariah Carey, Tennessee, opens in theatres December 19th

Sinbad and Yolanda Adams will be hosting the 21st Annual Stellar Awards. Gospel Sensation Marvin Sapp is leading the pack with nine nominations including song and male vocal. The show is taking place January 17th.

The movie, Notorious, based on the life of Rapper Biggie Smalls, a.k.a. The Notorious B.I.G., is gearing up for its release, which is scheduled for January 16th, 2009. Angela Bassett will be playing Biggie's mom, Volletta Wallace.

The Whispers are coming out with a holiday DVD. The famed singing group has been performing for over 45 years. Christmas With The Whispers features holiday classic and interviews.

Cedric The Entertainer makes his Broadway debut. The stage play, American Buffalo, about small time crooks and co-starring John Leguizamo, is currently running on the Great White Way.

Beyonce teams up with Oscar Winner Adrian Brody and Jeffrey Wright for the movie Cadillac Records. Beyonce is playing the Legendary Etta James. The movie opens in theatres December 5th.

WHAT'S THE UNDERGROUND BUZZ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He is one of the biggest stars of the moment, but his private life is catching up to him. He has to be careful about how he treats people because those same people are ready to cash in on what they know about him and tell the truth for money.

This guy is a Hollywood heartthrob, but he's having a hard time with the ladies. Apparently, his reputation is caching up to him. He's a jerk who loves them and leaves them broke.

Commentary: Michelle Obama is reinventing the stay-at-home mom

By Jolene Ivey
Special to CNN
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Editor's Note: Jolene Ivey, co-founder of the nonprofit Mocha Moms, Inc., is a Maryland state delegate and mother of five boys. She's married to Glenn Ivey, the state's attorney for Prince George's County, Maryland. She's also a regular contributor to "Tell Me More," hosted by Michel Martin on NPR.
Jolene Ivey says Michelle Obama is bucking tradition of African-American women working outside the home.

Jolene Ivey says Michelle Obama is bucking tradition of African-American women working outside the home.

CHEVERLY, Maryland (CNN) -- America's vision of the stereotypical June Cleaver at-home mom is about to get a shake-up.

Michelle Obama is joining the ranks of the Mocha Moms! And she'll be doing it at the most prestigious address on earth -- 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

From the time when Africans were dragged to these shores as slaves, one of the jobs that fell to these women who weren't working in the fields was caring for the children of their owners.

From breast-feeding to bathing to rocking them, the women tended their owners' children, while not being allowed to lavish such attention on their own. Long after slavery was over, little changed in this dynamic.

It was common for black women to leave their own children at home to fend for themselves and go to work for low wages as domestics in the homes of well-off white families. As African-Americans have gotten more opportunities, a college degree has been a ticket to the career ladder. Period. Devoting full time to motherhood is considered a waste of education by many in the black community.

Middle-class white women, on the other hand, were expected to stay home with their children. They fought their way into the workforce in large numbers relatively recently. The feminist and civil rights movements opened the working world to all women, but culturally, black women still were discouraged from being the primary caretakers of their own children.

Michelle Obama is bucking that mind-set in deciding to take time off from her career to focus on getting her children acclimated to life in the White House. Her own mom stayed home with her children, but this was unusual enough that few African-Americans have such a family memory.

Mrs. Robinson can claim credit for having raised two highly successful offspring -- one now a coach of the Oregon State basketball team, and one about to become first lady of the United States of America. What a proud legacy!

Michelle will be following in her mother's footsteps, being available for her children and her husband while forgoing a paycheck of her own. It's not a lifestyle that's right for all families, but it's a template that should get more attention -- and respect -- now that our incoming first lady will model it on the world stage.

When my first son was born 19 years ago, I quit my job as Rep. (now Sen.) Ben Cardin's press secretary. Family and friends disapproved, in a range of volumes.

The new mom friends I made were mostly white, and I'm grateful to them even today for helping me get through those early, confusing, frustrating, thrilling years. But I was lonely for friends who understood my jokes, and what it was like to walk a path unlike any family member before me.

A friend told me to stop my whining and start a newsletter. Call it Mocha Moms, she said, and use it to find other women like me. Another black at-home mom friend helped me launch it nearly 12 years ago! Two more women found us, and we built the framework for the organization that today has more than 100 chapters around the country.

I can't think of a better ambassador for Mocha Moms than Michelle Obama. For all the 16 years I was home with my kids, no one cared what my views were on anything more exciting than toilet training. She'll be in the position to bring light to issues and organizations that are currently working in obscurity, and energize their efforts.

Two issues she's chosen so far are on the work-home life balance and the needs of military families. I hope she'll also take on eliminating domestic violence as an issue. It crosses class and race, and has such long-lasting negative effects on families. We can use some star power on that one.

Programs that teach parenting skills and those that support strengthening marriages would welcome some help. The homeless could certainly use a champion, and it's hard to think of a better one than Michelle Obama. This is her chance to be a trailblazer and a traditional first lady at the same time!

We've got a Mocha Mom heading for the White House -- one who's using her Princeton and Harvard degrees to raise her children and our consciousness. Our attitudes about the choices women -- especially African-American women -- make may never be the same. At least, I hope not.

The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Jolene Ivey.

Vashti McKenzie from the State of the Black Union 2005 speaks on why we must ask in all of the tragedies facing our people, "Who benefits?".

Friend of The Obamas To Be Social Secretary

Naming of Rogers Will Raise Profile of White House Post

By Lois Romano

Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, November 24, 2008; Page C01

Desirée Rogers, a prominent Chicago businesswoman and Harvard MBA, will be named the first African American White House social secretary, sources in the presidential transition office said yesterday.

Rogers, 49, is a friend of Michelle and President-elect Barack Obama's, and a leader in Chicago corporate and civic circles; her appointment signals that the first couple consider the job crucial to how they introduce themselves to the country and the globe. She was a major fundraiser for Obama.

"This appointment sends a strong message that the Obamas want to use the White House strategically, to maximize its use in a way that is consistent with their philosophy -- [to] open it to a broader range of people, " said Valerie Jarrett, an Obama intimate and friend of Rogers's who also will work in the White House. "Desirée is a heavy hitter -- she comes with her own range of contacts from around the country. She's close to Michelle and she knows everyone who will be working in the West Wing, so she will be able to create a synergy."

he position of social secretary is more influential and far-reaching than the title might suggest. Although the job is associated with working with the first lady and with entertaining -- and best known for staging state dinners for heads of countries -- the social secretary's office is responsible for every event or ceremony that occurs in the White House or on the grounds. The day after the inauguration, for example, Rogers will be responsible for organizing the swearing-in of the Cabinet. Ann Stock, a social secretary in the Clinton White House, was once charged with pulling together the signing of the historic Mideast peace agreement in four days, for 4,000 guests.

"It's like running a small agency," said Stock, who briefed Rogers on the job last week. "Her business savvy, her marketing skills will all come into play. Her close relationship with the Obamas is very important because she comes to the job already understanding their preferences."

Ann Jordan, who has known Rogers for years, says: "She's a very talented, successful, well-educated women who uses her skills well -- she's very organized. She'll be working for two very outgoing people, both of whom are professional successes. They come with their own networks and opinions, and Desirée has the skills and familiarity with them to help them put their mark on the White House."

Rogers will come to the White House from Allstate Financial, where she was hired last summer to create a social network of consumers and clients for the mammoth business. Prior to that, Rogers was the president of Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas, a $2 billion utility that she had headed since 2004; she worked at the company starting in 1997 as its chief marketing officer. In the early '90s, she was director of the Illinois Lottery. She received her undergraduate degree from Wellesley College, and her daughter is a student at Yale.

Rogers has long been part of the Obamas' inner circle. She was once married to John Rogers, a close friend of President-elect Obama's, who played basketball with Michelle Obama's brother Craig Robinson at Princeton. John Rogers will be a co-chairman of the inaugural committee.

Last week, Desirée Rogers hosted Jarrett's birthday party, an intimate affair that included the president-elect and Michelle Obama. "She has extraordinary flair and exquisite taste," Jarrett said. "My party was perfect -- she had my favorite food, my favorite flowers."

"The president-elect and Mrs. Obama wanted a social secretary with extraordinary accomplishment who would bring vision and a fresh approach to the White House," said Stephanie Cutter, spokeswoman for the presidential transition.

Stock said that Rogers, whose résumé includes numerous civic commitments and board memberships, expressed an interest in also becoming a part of the fabric of the Washington community.

Rogers is also committed to making the White House a fun place for the Obama daughters, Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7, sources said. Most important, the Obamas and Rogers will develop creative ways to bring a broad spectrum of people through the White House, "so it's the people's house again," Jarrett said. "This campaign engaged a lot of people in ways they had not engaged before. This is about continuing to capture that excitement."

celebrity report....11-17-08

What led to the breakdown of Comedian/Actor Katt Williams? Was it a woman? According to close friends, yes, it was a woman. Williams was admitted to a South Carolina mental facility last week. His family stepped in and convinced him to be committed to saving his life. The past two months have been crazy for the comic actor, and his behavior was getting stranger by the day. There was his no show at the BET Hip Hop Awards; his no show for The Conan O'Brien show; and, his arrests on weapon charges. Williams had been leaning heavily on drugs and alcohol to get him through the day. He had an arsenal of weapons because he feared people were after him. His crazy behavior had everyone around him scared. Last weekend he showed up at a hotel to book a room. He was naked underneath a bathrobe, and he had a towel wrapped around his head. Hotel management called the cops when they realized something was not right. He walked in and he was talking gibberish. When Williams' family arrived, they decided enough was enough. Williams' young daughter started crying and pleading with her dad to get help. Williams was said to be involved with a dancer who broke his heart, and that's what led to his breakdown. Williams said he was going to retire at the end of the year. Let's hope he gets the help he needs and resumes his career.

Was Don Cornelius set up? Friends of the Soul Train founder claim he was. Last month, Cornelius was arrested after beating up his wife. He was charged with three counts of spousal battery, one count of dissuading a witness from filing a police report and one count of assault with a deadly weapon. Cornelius is 72-years old, and he faces up to five years in jail. So who is this woman he married and what led to the beatdown? Cornelius is worth millions. He recently sold the licensing and rights to the Soul Train brand. The woman in question is a brunette who is much younger than Cornelius. The two often went out partying, and would leave establishments staggering out together. Cornelius has always been quiet about his personal life, but close friends say this woman has been a negative influence from the start. They say she wanted out of the marriage. Now with Cornelius facing jail time, she can take the money and run. Did she start the fight that led to the altercation? What could have pushed him to the point of violence? Apparently, he beat her up with one of his weapons. Cornelius was ordered to turn over his gun collection, and he must also stay away from his wife. Cornelius is due in court in early December.

Why is Boxer Evander Holyfield broke? How did he lose his fortune, and who was the famous TV minister who helped him lose it? Sources say Holyfield needs to tell the truth about what has happened to his career. Was he involved in a deal with a famous preacher to make profits off of the ATM machines installed in the church? Did he give the minister $5 million to get the project started only to have it then fall apart. Holyfield is in need of money? He could wind up in jail if he continues to fall back on his child support. The famed boxer has ten children.

Wanda Sykes is out and proud! The comedienne made her stunning revelation last weekend at a gay rights rally in Las Vegas. Sykes says she was angry about Proposition 8 which prohibits same sex marriage. Sykes stated she is married to a woman, and she felt with the passing of Prop 8, her family was being attacked. Sykes says she has always been quiet about her sexuality, but she says now is the time to speak up.

American Idol Judge Paula Abdul is said to still be both shocked and saddened by the tragic death of her stalker. Paula Goodspeed, Abdul's stalker, was found outside of Abdul's home dead from a drug overdose. Goodspeed was an Idol hopeful during the 2005 season. In other Paula Abdul news, is she really trying to leave the show after 7 seasons. Paula is not happy that a new female judge was brought in, and Paula wants more money but producers won't give it to her. Abdul is said to be mulling several television projects.

Ne-Yo is joining Rosie O'Donnell for her first NBC prime time special. Rosie says this special is the kind of show she has wanted to do for a while. She's a big fan of the old variety shows, and Ne-Yo will be performing.

Michael Jackson won't tour with his brothers, but how about touring with his sister, Janet. Michael loves and respects his sister. Right now, with their careers slumping, they need each other. An offer is being proposed to have the brother and sister do a series of shows in London. Will they take the bait and get their careers back on track.

Tyler Perry is being sued by a woman who claims Perry stole her idea for Diary Of A Mad Black Woman. Donna West says he stole the idea from her 1990 screenplay Fantasy Of A Black Woman. She is seeking damages and profits from Perry's 2005 hit movie.

The Wayans are bringing back The Munsters. The 1960's TV classic is getting a new spin courtesy of the Wayans Brothers. The Munsters starts filming next year. I can't wait to see who plays "Herman" and "Grandpa," and don't forget about "Lily," "Little Eddie" and "Marilyn." Okay, let me stop! I'm showing my age. (smile!)

Whoopi Goldberg is making plans to produce a London version of her 1992 hit movie Sister Act.

Former Child Star Jaleel White wants to prove there is more to him than his popular "Urkel" character from the TV show Family Matters. He is working on his first movie. He wrote the film, Did You Get My Text. The movie is about a guy who starts a relationship with a girl on his friend's phone.

Jennifer Hudson has given the Gap clothing store the go ahead for their new ad campaign. Hudson filmed the holiday ads before the untimely deaths of her mother, brother and seven-year old nephew. Hudson recently addressed her fans on her MySpace page by thanking them for all of their support and prayers during her family tragedy.

Ebony magazine has landed the first print interview with President Elect Barack Obama. The issue goes on sale December 9th, and he'll talk about the future of America and his historic win.

The Roots will be the house band for Comedian Jimmy Fallon when he takes over as the new host of NBC's Late Night. When Conan O'Brien exits, Fallon will take his place, and the hip hop collective will take over musical duties.

Will Smith has been named one of the Most Fascinating People Of 2008. The Barbara Walters Special airs December 4th on ABC. Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, Tina Fey, and Michael Phelps are also featured.

Mel B has a new Las Vegas gig. Mel will be starring in topless a Las Vegas peep show that debuts in March. Mel will not be topless, but the showgirls will be. Mel says she will be scantily clad but in a classy way.

What do Blair Underwood, Usher, Will Smith, Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Robin Thicke, Terrence Howard and Chris Brown have in common? They are on the list of the 100 Sexiest Men according to People magazine. Actor Hugh Jackman ("Wolverine" from the X-Men movies) is on the cover.

Atlanta Police want to talk to Usher's mom Johnetta Patton. Apparently, she owes money to some limo drivers who worked for her at the BET Awards. The guys want their money, and they are going through law enforcement to get it.

The CBS TV show CSI: Miami is getting a special guest star next year. Sean "Diddy" Combs will be guest starring in two episodes next winter.

A new screenplay is floating around Hollywood for Nutty Professor III. Will Eddie Murphy bring back the famous Clump family?

Chris Rock is sporting a new look. He has shaved off his goatee and mustache. The grey was starting to come in, so he decided to shave it off. Now, he looks 10 years younger.

Get ready for the T.D. Jakes talk show. The Bishop is coming to a TV near you next fall. Dr. Phil's son, Jay McGraw, will be producing the daytime talker. Speaking of the Bishop, his new movie, Not Easily Broken, opens in theatres early next year. The movie stars Morris Chestnut, Taraji P. Henson and Jennifer Lewis.

Toni Braxton will continue with Dancing With The Stars, but not on the small screen. Braxton has joined the touring company, and their Philadelphia stop will be in February.

The new season of American Idol: Season Number 8 kicks off January 13-14th.

For its 50th anniversary, Motown Records is releasing a new box set of songs that the fans have picked. The box set is due December 9th. The 10 disc CD will feature 191 songs from your favorite Motown stars including Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Mary Wells and Martha & The Vandellas, to name a few.

Queen Latifah will be hosting the 35th Annual People's Choice Awards to be held January 7th on CBS.

The 40th Annual NAACP Image Awards will take place on February 12th.

Lionel Richie is getting ready to release his new CD next year. Richie will be teaming up with Singer/Songwriter Ne-Yo for his next CD entitled Just Go.

Musiq (Soulchild) returns with his latest CD, On My Radio, on December 9th. The CD features his hit duet with Mary J. Blige, If U Leave.

Lee Daniels latest movie with Mariah Carey, Tennessee, opens in theatres December 19th

Sinbad and Yolanda Adams will be hosting the 21st Annual Stellar Awards. Gospel Sensation Marvin Sapp is leading the pack with nine nominations including song and male vocal. The show is taking place January 17th.

The American Music Awards are set for this Sunday, November 23rd. Jimmy Kimmel is back as host. Alicia Keys is leading the pack with four nominations, and she'll be performing. Queen Of Soul Aretha Franklin will also be on hand as one of the presenters.

The movie, Notorious, based on the life of Rapper Biggie Smalls, a.k.a. The Notorious B.I.G., is gearing up for its release, which is scheduled for January 16th, 2009. Angela Bassett will be playing Biggie's mom, Volletta Wallace.

The Whispers are coming out with a holiday DVD. The famed singing group has been performing for over 45 years. Christmas With The Whispers features holiday classic and interviews.

Cedric The Entertainer makes his Broadway debut. The stage play, American Buffalo, about small time crooks and co-starring John Leguizamo, is currently running on the Great White Way.

Beyonce teams up with Oscar Winner Adrian Brody and Jeffrey Wright for the movie Cadillac Records. Beyonce is playing the Legendary Etta James. The movie opens in theatres December 5th.

WHAT'S THE UNDERGROUND BUZZ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This Actress is finding out the hard way, you can lose a man the same way you got em'…once a cheat…. always a cheat!

This Singer wants to write a tell all, but will she tell the truth? She's known for lying about her past, age and relationships.

This handsome TV Star is messing up his looks…..he needs to slow down on the Botox!

Political Chuckle

Fear

Have you ever avoided doing something because it was too hard or too scary? Have you ever not learned a new skill because you were afraid you'd make a mistake or just look silly? If you're like most of us, you've been there - done that. And like many people, you've missed out on a great deal of fun and opportunity because you were afraid to learn something new.

Think of things you're good at. Now remember the first time you did that activity. I bet you weren't very good. Actually, if you're like me, you had to try, try, and try again before you got into the swing of things. Am I right? Yet it was the conscious, consistent practice of that new skill that ultimately made you proficient and confident that you could do it. Think about how good you felt when you finally got it right.

No question about it, learning a new skill is hard, it's scary, and at times it's embarrassing. In the past each time I tried something new and didn't get it the first time, I wanted to give up. It felt like the end of my world. But I didn't give up. There are even days when I know what I'm doing and still feel like I'm off the beam. And on those days, I just don't give up.

Today I know whatever I'm experiencing is part of my learning process, whether it's using my computer or speaking in front of an audience. My job is to remain teachable.

SNL Parody w/ Beyonce & J. Timberlake

King family seeks to cash in on MLK-Obama items

November 13, 2008

Zealous guardians of his words and his likeness, the family of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. is demanding a share of the proceeds from the sudden wave of T-shirts, posters and other merchandise depicting the civil rights leader alongside Barack Obama.

Isaac Newton Farris Jr., King’s nephew and head of the nonprofit King Center in Atlanta, said the estate is entitled to hundreds of thousands of dollars in licensing fees - maybe even millions.

“Some of this is probably putting food on people’s plates. We’re not trying to stop anybody from legitimately supporting themselves,” he said, “but we cannot allow our brand to be abused.”

But while Obama’s election as the first black president may be the fulfillment of King’s dream and could yield a big windfall for his estate, policing his image and actually collecting any fees could prove to be a legal nightmare because of the great proliferation of unauthorized King-Obama paraphernalia, much of it sold by street vendors.

King’s writings, likeness and voice are considered intellectual property, and almost any use - from graduate thesis papers to TV documentaries - are subject to approval by his estate, now administered by his surviving children, Martin Luther King III, Dexter King and the Rev. Bernice King. (Because Obama is an elected official, his words and image are in the public domain and can be used without permission.)

Farris said he expects to announce deals in the coming weeks to license some items featuring images of King and Obama, and may sell some in the King Center bookstore alongside recordings of his speeches, postcards, calendars, mugs bearing images of King, and other licensed merchandise, which nets the center about $800,000 annually.

The family is protective of how King is depicted, and Farris said any items that are inconsistent with his uncle’s message and image would not be approved.

Any proceeds from King-Obama merchandise would also go to the King Center, said Farris, a member of the estate management team that reviews intellectual property issues.

The family, which refuses to divulge details of its licensing deals, is also discussing how to go after violators.

King’s estate sued CBS over its sale of a video documentary that used excerpts of his 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech. An appeals court ruled in 1999 that the speech was covered by copyright and was not public domain, but the estate ultimately settled out of court for an undisclosed sum.

“They are probably one of the most careful, concerned and on-top-of-it groups of image protectors I’ve ever met,” said Philippa Loengard, assistant director of the Kernochan Center for Law, Media and the Arts at Columbia University.

Realizing the value of his ideas, King himself copyrighted several of his speeches during his lifetime. After he died, that duty fell to his widow, Coretta, and, since her death in 2006, to their children. Some scholars have complained about the family’s aggressive pursuit of moneymaking opportunities.

But the Kings have never faced a challenge quite as big as this. Vendors across the country have capitalized on connecting Obama to King, mostly without permission and without a penny of the proceeds going to his estate.

“We realize the historic nature of events surrounding President-elect Obama and we are seeking an elegant solution to address the commercial use of Dr. King’s image in connection with our newly elected president,” Dexter King said in a statement.

With the siblings already battling in court over whether to publish their mother’s diaries, it could be difficult for them to reach a consensus.

Jock Smith, an attorney for Bernice King and Martin Luther King III, warned that any action Dexter King takes without their approval would be “an illegal action not sanctioned by the corporation.”

Obama accepted the Democratic nomination for president on the 45th anniversary of King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, and the nation’s first black president will be inaugurated on Jan. 20, the day after the federal holiday created to honor King.

In the past, the King estate has relied on concerned citizens to blow the whistle on vendors and manufacturers, who then get a cease-and-desist letter. If that fails, the estate sues.

“If you make a dollar, we should make a dime,” Farris said. “That’s not happening now.”

Street vendors and cousins Francis Sarr and Michael Silva said they are not sure whether anyone licensed the T-shirts for sale at their downtown Atlanta souvenir stand, including one featuring images of King and Obama and the words, “I HAVE A DREAM … THAT CHANGE IS GONNA COME.”

But they said they would be happy to contribute a portion of the proceeds to the King estate.

“By right, they definitely deserve something from it and should give their consent to sell it,” Silva said. “I guess everyone is trying to cash in.”

ERRIN HAINES, AP

The Obama Family Holiday message!

President Elect Barack Obama on 60 Minutes, 11.16.08

Watch CBS Videos Online

celebrity report.....11-10-08

Donald Trump has come to the rescue of Jennifer Hudson. Hudson is still reeling from the tragedy of losing her family members including her mother, brother and 7-year old nephew. Trump is letting Hudson and her family stay in one of his hotels. He says he wants to be able to protect the Hudson Family. He says he always liked Jennifer, and wants to do whatever he can to help her. Meanwhile, the mystery deepens over who was responsible for the murders. Police suspect it was a hit. They claim Hudson's brother Jason was a small time drug dealer who dealt with crack and marijuana. They believe Jason's brother-in-law, William Balfour wanted a cut of the deal, and when Jason refused he was killed. They also theorize that the killer or killers didn't know Hudson's mother and nephew were at home. When the killer(s) realized this, Hudson's mom was killed and the 7-year old was tortured before he was executed. William Balfour, the ex-husband of Jennifer Hudson's sister Julia, is in police custody, but he has not been charged. Balfour's pregnant girlfriend and her family have been talking to the press. They claim Balfour was involved in the killings. Meanwhile, tensions continue between the Hudson sisters because of Julia's strange behavior and her addiction to her MySpace page. In a recent posting, Julia was showing off her new boyfriend, and proclaiming that now she was the prettiest one in the family. There's still no word on whether or not Jennifer will be able to continue with her career. Right now, everything has been put on hold as she lives through this nightmare.

Can someone get Comedian Katt Williams into rehab? His behavior lately has been awful. His no show stunt at the BET Hip Hop Awards, arrests on weapons charges and drunken stage performances are ruining his career. In recent shows, he talks about quitting show business. Well, maybe he should before he kills himself. His concerts have been awful, and a lot of people have been saying they will never go to any of his shows again. Williams is apparently surrounded by people who are contributing to his downfall. Between the alcohol and the drugs, Williams needs an intervention. Who is going to help him? Katt Williams needs it…fast!

The Janet Jackson diet book has been put on hold. Jackson is having a rough time with poor album sales and a cancelled concert tour, and she's starting to gain weight again. Jackson was going to talk about losing 60 pounds in two months two years ago, but now that project has been put on hold. Jackson is starting to reveal what happened at Def Jam Records. She was dropped from the label after one album. According to Jackson, they wanted her to be the new Sade, but Janet still wanted to do sexy dance songs. Jackson needs to get back with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis if she wants another hit. I know it must be breaking their hearts to see what has happened to her career after all the success they had when they were all together.

American Idol Judge Paula Abdul is said to be in shock after police discovered the body of a woman in a car outside of Abdul's home. The woman in question, Paula Goodspeed, was said to be obsessed with Abdul and was a known stalker. Goodspeed auditioned for Idol during season 5 in 2006. Police are investigating to determine if it was a suicide or drug overdose.

Who killed the son-in-law of James Brown? Darren Lunar was ambushed outside of his home in Atlanta. He recently divorced Brown's daughter Yamma. Police believe it was a hit because Lunar had a lot of money on him, around $4,000.

The magazine O At Home is folding. The bad economy is affecting magazine sales, and now O At Home will be included in the regular O magazine.

There's a new Karate Kid in town, and his name is Jaden Smith. Will Smith's ten-year old son, Jaden, will be starring in the remake of the classic movie. Filming starts next year in Beijing.

Get ready for the T.D. Jakes talk show. The Bishop is coming to a TV near you next fall. Dr. Phil's son, Jay McGraw, will be producing the daytime talker. Speaking of the Bishop, his new movie, Not Easily Broken, opens in theatres early next year. The movie stars Morris Chestnut, Taraji P. Henson and Jennifer Lewis.

Eric LaSalle is coming back to ER for its final season. LaSalle left the series in 2002. He is now an in demand director, and he will be directing episodes for the February sweeps.

Erykah Badu has a message for those who criticize her for having three babies with three different baby daddies. Badu says this is her life, and she is tired of the criticism. She says she has great relationships with the fathers of her children, and people should mind their own business.

The new issue of Jet magazine is a keeper. It features exclusive pictures of the presidential campaign of Barack Obama. The issue is on newsstands now.

Jody Watley is set to return with a new project. The former Soul Train dancer and 80's pop diva is now 49-years old, and she still looks good. Watley was also a member of the popular music group Shalamar before she took off for her very successful solo career. Her new album, Chameleon, is due out next year.

Toni Braxton will continue with Dancing With The Stars, but not on the small screen. Braxton has joined the touring company, and their Philadelphia stop will be in February.

The new season of American Idol: Season Number 8 kicks off January 13-14th.

Is Thriller is coming to Broadway? The 14-minute video made, famous by Michael Jackson, is being considered for a Broadway musical. There's no word on whether Michael will participate.

Poet and Author Dr. Maya Angelou, an avid Hillary Clinton supporter, says she is going to write a poem for President Elect Barack Obama. January 20th is the inauguration date for the president elect as he becomes the first African American to hold the nation's highest office. In 1992, Angelou wrote the poem On The Pulse Of Morning for President Bill Clinton, and she'll be ready for President Elect Obama this January. But, before she reads for the new president, Dr. Angelou is going to be honored along with TV Producer Norman Lear at the 2008 Annual Marian Anderson Awards. The ceremony honoring them is taking place November 17th at the Kimmel Center. Lear is best known for the TV classics All In The Family, Sanford & Son, The Jeffersons, Good Times and Maude. The award is named after the famed Contralto Marian Anderson, a Philadelphia native. Past honorees include Sidney Poitier, Richard Gere, Elizabeth Taylor, Gregory Peck, Oprah Winfrey and Harry Belafonte. Dr. Angelou and Lear go back a ways back. The doctor is godmother to Lear's youngest children. Scheduled performers include Harry Belafonte, Kirk Franklin, The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ben Vereen.

So who is hosting the hottest parties in Hollywood….how about Eddie Murphy and Johnny Gill? Gill lives in Murphy's guest house, and the two have been best buds for years. Word has it if you're looking for a great party, head over to Murphy's house. They host weekly bowling tournaments. Past guests included Busta Rhymes, Bobby Brown and Producer Dallas Austin.

Vanity Fair magazine is celebrating Motown's 50th Anniversary, but there are some glaring omissions. No mention of Ashford & Simpson, who wrote the Motown classics Ain't No Mountain High Enough, You're All I Need To Get By, The Boss, It's My House, and Your Precious Love. There's also no mention of Gladys Knight, who actually discovered The Jackson Five. There's nothing about former Supreme Mary Wilson or former Miracle Claudette Robinson, the ex-wife of Smokey Robinson. In more anniversary news, Motown is releasing a new box set of songs that the fans have picked. The box set is due December 9th. The 10 disc CD will feature 191 songs from your favorite Motown stars including Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Mary Wells and Martha & The Vandellas, to name a few.

Rolling Stone magazine has a new title for The Queen Of Soul Aretha Franklin. She has been named The Greatest Singer Of All Time by the magazine.

The divorce papers will be signed any day now. Miami Heat Star Dwayne Wade is divorcing his wife Siohvaughn, despite their many years of marriage and their kids. Wade had decided to step off, but don't cry for Siohvaughn. The soon-to-be former Mrs. Wade is due to get a $30 million settlement to sign off on the divorce. Wade has been seeing actress Gabrielle Union, and close friends says they plan to get married once he is divorced.

Queen Latifah will be hosting the 35th Annual People's Choice Awards to be held January 7th on CBS.

The 40th Annual NAACP Image Awards will take place on February 12th.

The movie Soul Men, with the late Bernie Mac, the late Isaac Hayes and Samuel L. Jackson, did not do well at the box office taking in a little over $6 million at press time. Hopefully, the comedy will do better with the DVD sales.

Lionel Richie is getting ready to release his new CD next year. Richie will be teaming up with Singer/Songwriter Ne-Yo for his next CD entitled Just Go.

Musiq (Soulchild) returns with his latest CD, On My Radio, on December 9th. The CD features his hit duet with Mary J. Blige, If U Leave.

Lee Daniels latest movie with Mariah Carey, Tennessee, opens in theatres December 19th

Sinbad and Yolanda Adams will be hosting the 21st Annual Stellar Awards. Gospel Sensation Marvin Sapp is leading the pack with nine nominations including song and male vocal. The show is taking place January 17th.

The American Music Awards are set for November 23rd. Jimmy Kimmel is back as host. Alicia Keys is leading the pack with four nominations, and she'll be performing.

The movie, Notorious, based on the life of Rapper Biggie Smalls, a.k.a. The Notorious B.I.G., is gearing up for its release, which is scheduled for January 16th, 2009. Angela Bassett will be playing Biggie's mom, Volletta Wallace.

The Whispers are coming out with a holiday DVD. The famed singing group has been performing for over 45 years. Christmas With The Whispers features holiday classic and interviews.

Cedric The Entertainer is headed to Broadway. The stage play American Buffalo, about small time crooks, also stars John Leguizamo. American Buffalo opens on November 17th.

Beyonce teams up with Oscar Winner Adrian Brody and Jeffrey Wright for the movie Cadillac Records. Beyonce is playing the Legendary Etta James. The movie opens in theatres December 5th.

WHAT'S THE UNDERGROUND BUZZ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This Superstar Singer is on a roll. She has a big movie coming out and a hot new album. Despite her media hoopla, a lot of people are surprised that she did not offer public condolences to a former co-star who has suffered a major tragedy.

Ex-White House butler witnesses black history

Obama's election 'really something'

By Wil Haygood |The Washington Post

November 8, 2008

Eugene Allen has fond memories of working for the Reagans. (Family photo)

WASHINGTON — For more than three decades Eugene Allen worked in the White House, a black man unknown to the headlines. During some of those years, harsh segregation laws lay upon the land.

He trekked home every night, his wife, Helene, keeping him out of her kitchen.

At the White House, he worked closer to the dirty dishes than the large desk in the Oval Office.

President Truman called him Gene.

President Ford liked to talk golf with him.

He saw eight presidential administrations come and go, often working six days a week. "I never missed a day of work," Allen says.

His is a story from the back pages of history. A figure in the tiniest of print. The man in the kitchen.

He was there while America's racial history was being remade: Brown vs. Board of Education, the Little Rock school crisis, the 1963 March on Washington, the cities burning, the civil rights bills, the assassinations.

"We had never had anything," Allen, 89, recalls of black America at the time. "I was always hoping things would get better."

In its long history, the White House has had a complex and vexing relationship with black Americans.

"The history is not so uneven at the lower level, in the kitchen," says Ted Sorensen, who served as counselor to President John F. Kennedy. "In the kitchen, the folks have always been black. Even the folks at the door—black."

Gene Allen and wife Helene, 86, are sitting in the living room of their home off Georgia Avenue NW. A cane rests across her lap. Her voice is musical, in a Lena Horne kind of way. She calls him "Honey." They met in Washington at a birthday party in 1942. He was too shy to ask for her number, so she tracked his down. They married a year later.

In 1952, Allen was offered a job as a White House "pantry man." He washed dishes, stocked cabinets and shined silverware. He started at $2,400 a year.

There was, in time, a promotion to butler. "Shook the hand of all the presidents I ever worked for," he says.

"I was there, honey," Helene reminds him. "In the back maybe. But I shook their hands too."

"President Ford's birthday and my birthday were on the same day," he says. "He'd have a birthday party at the White House. Everybody would be there. And Mrs. Ford would say, 'It's Gene's birthday too!'"

And so they'd sing a little ditty to the butler. And the butler, who wore a tuxedo to work every day, would blush.

"Jack Kennedy was very nice," he goes on. "And so was Mrs. Kennedy."

"Hmm-mmm," says Helene, rocking.

He was in the White House kitchen the day Kennedy was slain. He got a personal invitation to the funeral. But he volunteered for other duty: "Somebody had to be at the White House to serve everyone after they came from the funeral."

The whole family of President Jimmy Carter made Helene chuckle: "They were country. And I'm talking Lillian and Rosalynn both." It comes out sounding like the highest compliment.

Gene Allen was promoted to maitre d' in 1980. He left the White House in 1986, after 34 years. Reagan wrote him a sweet note. The first lady hugged him tight.

The week before Election Day, Gene and Helene speculated about what it would mean if a black man were actually elected president.

"It'd be really something," he said.

They've got pictures of the Reagans in the living room. He's got pictures of every president Gene's ever served on a wall in the basement. There's a painting President Dwight Eisenhower gave him and a picture of President Gerald Ford opening birthday gifts, Gene nearby.

They talked about praying to help Barack Obama get to the White House. They'd go vote together. And she'd get supper going afterward. They'd gone over their plans more than once.

"Imagine," she said.

"That's right," he said.

On Nov. 3, Helene had a doctor's appointment. Gene woke and nudged her once, then again. He shuffled around to her side of the bed. He nudged Helene again. He was all alone.

"I woke up and my wife didn't," he said later.

The lady whom he married 65 years ago was to be buried Friday.

The butler cast his vote for Obama on Tuesday.

He so missed telling his Helene about the black man bound for the Oval Office.

"Just imagine," she said.

Singer, anti-apartheid icon Miriam Makeba dies

(CNN) -- Legendary South African singer Miriam Makeba, an outspoken critic of apartheid, died late Sunday in southern Italy, a hospital spokesman has told CNN. She was 76.

Makeba, shown here in Switzerland in 2006, was an outpsoken opponent of apartheid.

The cause of death was not immediately known.

Makeba's career spanned parts of six decades and helped bring African music to a global audience. She was known as the "Empress of African Song" and "Mama Africa."

She was considered by many to be the most important female vocalist to come out of South Africa.

Former South African President Nelson Mandela, a prisoner under the nation's apartheid regime, mourned her death, but praised her commitment to the cause.

"Despite her tremendous sacrifice and the pain she felt to leave behind her beloved family and her country when she went into exile, she continued to make us proud as she used her worldwide fame to focus attention on the abomination of apartheid," Mandela said in a statement released Monday.

An outspoken critic of apartheid, she had her South African citizenship revoked by the country's government in 1960. For the next 30 years, Makeba considered herself a "citizen of the world" until her citizenship was restored.

She recorded her first single, "Lakutshona Llange," in 1953 as a member of the Manhattan Brothers.

Makeba's breakthrough hit in the United States came in 1967, when "Pata Pata" charted. It was recorded 11 years earlier in South Africa.

Makeba lived in exile for 31 years in the United States, France, Guinea in West Africa and Belgium, The Associated Press reported. She returned to South Africa in 1990, when many long-exiled South Africans returned under reforms instituted by then-President F.W. de Klerk.

"I never understood why I couldn't come home," Ms. Makeba said upon her return, according to an AP report. "I never committed any crime."

Makeba spoke before the United Nations in 1976, denouncing the policy of apartheid, or racial segregation, according to AP. After that, South Africa's government-run radio and television refused to broadcast her songs until 1989.

American entertainer Steve Allen helped launch her career in the United States and she often toured with singer Harry Belafonte during the 1960s. In 1987 she performed with singer Paul Simon on his "Graceland" concert tour.

CNN's David Ariosto contributed to this report

A Penny for Your Thoughts!

Barak - Biblical - Judges 4-5

New Living Translation

Judges 4

Deborah Becomes Israel’s Judge

1 After Ehud’s death, the Israelites again did evil in the Lord’s sight. 2 So the Lord turned them over to King Jabin of Hazor, a Canaanite king. The commander of his army was Sisera, who lived in Harosheth-haggoyim. 3 Sisera, who had 900 iron chariots, ruthlessly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years. Then the people of Israel cried out to the Lord for help.

4 Deborah, the wife of Lappidoth, was a prophet who was judging Israel at that time. 5 She would sit under the Palm of Deborah, between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites would go to her for judgment. 6 One day she sent for Barak son of Abinoam, who lived in Kedesh in the land of Naphtali. She said to him, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: Call out 10,000 warriors from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun at Mount Tabor. 7 And I will call out Sisera, commander of Jabin’s army, along with his chariots and warriors, to the Kishon River. There I will give you victory over him.”

8 Barak told her, “I will go, but only if you go with me.”

9 “Very well,” she replied, “I will go with you. But you will receive no honor in this venture, for the Lord’s victory over Sisera will be at the hands of a woman.” So Deborah went with Barak to Kedesh. 10 At Kedesh, Barak called together the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali, and 10,000 warriors went up with him. Deborah also went with him.

11 Now Heber the Kenite, a descendant of Moses’ brother-in-law^[a] Hobab, had moved away from the other members of his tribe and pitched his tent by the oak of Zaanannim near Kedesh.

12 When Sisera was told that Barak son of Abinoam had gone up to Mount Tabor, 13 he called for all 900 of his iron chariots and all of his warriors, and they marched from Harosheth-haggoyim to the Kishon River.

14 Then Deborah said to Barak, “Get ready! This is the day the Lord will give you victory over Sisera, for the Lord is marching ahead of you.” So Barak led his 10,000 warriors down the slopes of Mount Tabor into battle. 15 When Barak attacked, the Lord threw Sisera and all his chariots and warriors into a panic. Sisera leaped down from his chariot and escaped on foot. 16 Then Barak chased the chariots and the enemy army all the way to Harosheth-haggoyim, killing all of Sisera’s warriors. Not a single one was left alive.

17 Meanwhile, Sisera ran to the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, because Heber’s family was on friendly terms with King Jabin of Hazor. 18 Jael went out to meet Sisera and said to him, “Come into my tent, sir. Come in. Don’t be afraid.” So he went into her tent, and she covered him with a blanket.

19 “Please give me some water,” he said. “I’m thirsty.” So she gave him some milk from a leather bag and covered him again.

20 “Stand at the door of the tent,” he told her. “If anybody comes and asks you if there is anyone here, say no.”

21 But when Sisera fell asleep from exhaustion, Jael quietly crept up to him with a hammer and tent peg in her hand. Then she drove the tent peg through his temple and into the ground, and so he died.

22 When Barak came looking for Sisera, Jael went out to meet him. She said, “Come, and I will show you the man you are looking for.” So he followed her into the tent and found Sisera lying there dead, with the tent peg through his temple.

23 So on that day Israel saw God defeat Jabin, the Canaanite king. 24 And from that time on Israel became stronger and stronger against King Jabin until they finally destroyed him.

Judges 5

The Song of Deborah

1 On that day Deborah and Barak son of Abinoam sang this song:

2 “Israel’s leaders took charge,
and the people gladly followed.
Praise the Lord!

3 “Listen, you kings!
Pay attention, you mighty rulers!
For I will sing to the Lord.
I will make music to the Lord, the God of Israel.

4 “Lord, when you set out from Seir
and marched across the fields of Edom,
the earth trembled,
and the cloudy skies poured down rain.
5 The mountains quaked in the presence of the Lord,
the God of Mount Sinai—
in the presence of the Lord,
the God of Israel.

6 “In the days of Shamgar son of Anath,
and in the days of Jael,
people avoided the main roads,
and travelers stayed on winding pathways.
7 There were few people left in the villages of Israel^[b]—
until Deborah arose as a mother for Israel.
8 When Israel chose new gods,
war erupted at the city gates.
Yet not a shield or spear could be seen
among forty thousand warriors in Israel!
9 My heart is with the commanders of Israel,
with those who volunteered for war.
Praise the Lord!

10 “Consider this, you who ride on fine donkeys,
you who sit on fancy saddle blankets,
and you who walk along the road.
11 Listen to the village musicians^[c]
gathered at the watering holes.
They recount the righteous victories of the Lord
and the victories of his villagers in Israel.
Then the people of the Lord
marched down to the city gates.

12 “Wake up, Deborah, wake up!
Wake up, wake up, and sing a song!
Arise, Barak!
Lead your captives away, son of Abinoam!

13 “Down from Tabor marched the few against the nobles.
The people of the Lord marched down against mighty warriors.
14 They came down from Ephraim—
a land that once belonged to the Amalekites;
they followed you, Benjamin, with your troops.
From Makir the commanders marched down;
from Zebulun came those who carry a commander’s staff.
15 The princes of Issachar were with Deborah and Barak.
They followed Barak, rushing into the valley.
But in the tribe of Reuben
there was great indecision.
16 Why did you sit at home among the sheepfolds—
to hear the shepherds whistle for their flocks?
Yes, in the tribe of Reuben
there was great indecision.
17 Gilead remained east of the Jordan.
And why did Dan stay home?
Asher sat unmoved at the seashore,
remaining in his harbors.
18 But Zebulun risked his life,
as did Naphtali, on the heights of the battlefield.

19 “The kings of Canaan came and fought,
at Taanach near Megiddo’s springs,
but they carried off no silver treasures.
20 The stars fought from heaven.
The stars in their orbits fought against Sisera.
21 The Kishon River swept them away—
that ancient torrent, the Kishon.
March on with courage, my soul!
22 Then the horses’ hooves hammered the ground,
the galloping, galloping of Sisera’s mighty steeds.
23 ‘Let the people of Meroz be cursed,’ said the angel of the Lord.
‘Let them be utterly cursed,
because they did not come to help the Lord—
to help the Lord against the mighty warriors.’

24 “Most blessed among women is Jael,
the wife of Heber the Kenite.
May she be blessed above all women who live in tents.
25 Sisera asked for water,
and she gave him milk.
In a bowl fit for nobles,
she brought him yogurt.
26 Then with her left hand she reached for a tent peg,
and with her right hand for the workman’s hammer.
She struck Sisera with the hammer, crushing his head.
With a shattering blow, she pierced his temples.
27 He sank, he fell,
he lay still at her feet.
And where he sank,
there he died.

28 “From the window Sisera’s mother looked out.
Through the window she watched for his return, saying,
‘Why is his chariot so long in coming?
Why don’t we hear the sound of chariot wheels?’

29 “Her wise women answer,
and she repeats these words to herself:
30 ‘They must be dividing the captured plunder—
with a woman or two for every man.
There will be colorful robes for Sisera,
and colorful, embroidered robes for me.
Yes, the plunder will include
colorful robes embroidered on both sides.’

31 “Lord, may all your enemies die like Sisera!
But may those who love you rise like the sun in all its power!”

Then there was peace in the land for forty years.

106 year old honored by Obama 'ain't got time to die'

From Robert Johnson and Audrey Irvine - CNN

ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- Ann Nixon Cooper sits back in her dining room chair, her eyes closed tight and her lips clenched, when asked if she will attend Barack Obama's inauguration in January.

Ann Nixon Cooper was born in 1902, a time when women and black people were denied the right to vote.

"I could go and maybe would go, but I'm not looking forward to it," says the 106-year-old former socialite.

What if Obama came to her house and asked her in person to attend?

Cooper perks up and a big smile spreads across her face.

"Oh, yes, of course I'm ready to go!"

It's been a whirlwind ever since Obama mentioned the African-American centenarian in his victory speech Tuesday night. Throngs of media -- from the BBC to a Japanese station to national news outlets -- have descended on her Atlanta house. Strangers have stopped by too.

She's taking it all in stride. She stayed up later than usual, until about 3 a.m., after Obama's speech and the phone began ringing off the hook. She had been tipped off by the Obama campaign that he'd say something.

"Somebody told him what to say and what to do and he followed through," she says. Watch "I'd be proud to meet him as anybody else" »

Cooper -- who was born during a time when women and black people couldn't vote -- fully understands the significance of Obama's victory.

"Things are changing, changing, changing, and I look for more change now that it's the first black president in victory of faith over fear," she says. "Don't you know, that's quite something to be proud of."

What would she tell Obama if she ever meets him?

"I wouldn't have anything special to say about Obama. I enjoyed listening to him, but that's all," she says. "I would be proud to meet him as anyone else."

She and her late husband, prominent dentist Dr. Albert Cooper, raised four children in her house. The home was a center of Atlanta's black society and the scene of many parties. She knew Martin Luther King Jr. when he was just a boy and was close with his mother.

She sometimes refers to Obama as "that young man."

In his victory speech, Obama praised Cooper's fight. The president-elect had learned of her story two weeks earlier after CNN profiled her when she went to the polls to vote early. Obama called her soon afterward. Watch Obama talk about Cooper in his victory speech »

"This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations," Obama told the tens of thousands of supporters who had gathered in Chicago on Tuesday night. "But one that's on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She's a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing -- Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.

"She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn't vote for two reasons -- because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.

"And tonight, I think about all that she's seen throughout her century in America -- the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can't, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can."

Cooper watched Obama's speech from her home. "Yeah, I knew he was talking about me -- I had been told that he would be saying these things." See images of Cooper's early voting extravaganza »

She added that her late husband "would be elated" a black man will be president.

"Yeah, he'd be so tickled to death," she said. "We looked forward to changes. Everybody looked forward to a better life."

One of her grandsons, Albert B. Cooper, said the family has been overwhelmed with pride since Tuesday.

"It was a bigger honor than you could ever imagine to be mentioned in Obama's speech. For her to be used as an example of the strength -- and all the changes that have gone on within the black community -- is stunning. We were touched and proud and I can't come up with the words," he says. "It's an amazing thing."

Ann Cooper has called Atlanta home since the 1920s. She co-founded a Girls Club for African-American youth and taught community residents to read in a tutoring program at Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King preached.

Celebrities, including the late singer Nat King Cole, often dropped in to visit. One time many years ago, a young student from Morehouse College stopped to visit. He spoke of dreams to become a filmmaker. That man, it turns out, was Spike Lee.

"It's been a house with a heap of living going on in it," Cooper said.

Born in 1902 in Shelbyville, Tennessee, Cooper danced the electric slide up until the age of 103. She has recently slowed down after suffering several heart attacks and a fractured hip.

On a typical day, Cooper spends hours watching television in her wood-paneled sitting room. Her favorite shows are "The Price is Right," "Oprah" and "Dancing with the Stars."

Three of Cooper's four children have died; her surviving daughter is 83. She has 14 grandchildren living and many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

When CNN first interviewed her in October, she said she only had one thing left to see in this world.

"I ain't got time to die 'cause I've got to see a black president," she said, giggling with excitement. "I've got to see that."

Now, she says, "I would be very proud if I could just meet and shake his hand.