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Obama Names Black Man Head of NASA

By Associated Press May 23, 2009 12:03 pm

President Barack Obama on Saturday named former shuttle commander Charles Bolden to lead NASA at a critical time for the space agency.

The White House has ordered a complete outside review of NASA’s manned space program, including plans to return astronauts to the moon.

Bolden flew in space four times _ twice as shuttle commander _ and once was assistant deputy administrator at NASA headquarters in Washington. The 62-year-old Bolden left NASA in 1994.

If the Senate confirms Bolden, he would be the space agency’s first black administrator and the second astronaut to hold the post.

Obama also announced that he was nominating Lori Garver to be NASA’s deputy administrator. Garver was Obama’s NASA transition chief and is a former associate administrator at the agency.

“These talented individuals will help put NASA on course to boldly push the boundaries of science, aeronautics and exploration in the 21st century and ensure the long-term vibrancy of Americas space program,” Obama said in a statement.

White House science adviser John Holdren said in early May that the new panel will look at the design of new spacecraft to replace the space shuttle and go to the moon, as well as consider possible alternatives to the current design.

Also to be studied is the five-year gap between the shuttle’s retirement and the new moon vehicles, with the first new space capsule flying in 2015. During that time, starting in late 2010, NASA would have to rely on the Russians for space travel. The review will look at extending NASA’s use of the multibillion-dollar international space station beyond 2016.

NASA has spent $6.9 billion on its plan to return to the moon, which then-President George W. Bush presented as a response to the 2003 space shuttle Columbia accident.

4-1-1 ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 18TH, 2009

Good news for Natalie Cole. She received a kidney transplant this week. Cole had been on dialysis three times a week after her kidneys failed following her treatment for Hepatitis C. Cole’s publicist says she’ll postpone her summer tour while she recovers.

The King family drama continues. Why can’t Dexter, Martin, III and Bernice get along, and why are they fighting in the first place? The children of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King are out of control. At this point, the fighting has gone public. Can someone get these three together? Where is Jesse Jackson or Reverend Al? The latest drama involves a big screen movie that Steven Spielberg wants to produce about the life of Dr. King. Spielberg has the permission of The King Foundation, which Dexter heads up, but Martin, III and Bernice say they will sue Spielberg and DreamWorks Studios if they proceed with this project. It all boils down to money. I wish they would get it together. This is so embarrassing for the legacy of their parents.

Alicia Keys….. the other woman? Apparently so. Keys has always been notoriously quiet about her private life, but now she has hooked up with a man who wants the world to know she cooks him breakfast naked. Yes, in a new song, Producer Swizz Beats talks about his love for Keys and revealed this surprising tidbit. I sure hope she’s not fryin’ up bacon in a pan. Swizz Beats is an award-winning producer who is currently going through a nasty divorce with his wife. The wife, R&B Singer Mashonda who Beats has a son with, is not going away quietly. She says if her husband wants to have a life with Keys, he is going to have to pay her to go away. So what does Keys has to say? So far she has been quiet, but I’m sure her record company is not pleased that their star is caught up in some home-wrecking mess….hmmmmmmmmm!

Will Chris Brown be joining Michael Jackson for his London concert series? It could happen since Brown looks to revive his career after the Rihanna drama. The King Of Pop continues to make headlines leading up to the London shows in July. In a meeting last week with his father, Jackson made it clear his brothers were not welcome to join him for his concert series. Jackson says this about him and not the family. Papa Joe was begging Michael to include his brothers. Marlon, Jackie, Jermaine Tito and Randy could all use the exposure and the money, but Michael said no. He won’t even allow Janet to participate. Papa Joe tried all the tricks, even saying it would make his mother Katherine so happy to see her children come together while she is alive. Michael’s response: No. The family is likely getting sued because someone signed an agreement for the family to do a reunion concert in 2012. Michael’s response was to please leave him alone. Dang Michael!

Speaking of the Jacksons, Janet will forever be immortalized by boyfriend Jermaine Dupri. For her 43rd birthday, he got a tattoo of her on the right side of his body. Do you think she would do the same for him? Just asking……(smile).

Wanda Sykes is a new mommy. Sykes and her wife recently welcomed twin girls to their family. Sykes says she is excited about the expansion of her family. Despite the uproar she caused at the White House Correspondence Dinner, Sykes says the FOX network is fully committed to her Saturday, late night show, which kicks off in the fall.

The Real Housewives Of Atlanta is set to return to the Bravo network this summer, and the ladies will be armed with money. I hear the ladies are being paid close to $200,000 for the second season, and this does not include their numerous personal appearances.

Basketball Star turned Jazz Musician Wayman Tisdale died last week. Tisdale, 44, had been battling cancer for the past two years. Last year, he had his right leg amputated in hopes of stopping the cancer. Tisdale played three years at Oklahoma, and 12 years in the NBA, with stints in Indiana, Sacramento and Phoenix. When he left the NBA, he returned to his first love, music. He released eight albums as a jazz bassist. Tisdale is survived by his wife Regina and four kids.

This fall, Comedian Chris Rock will be releasing his hair documentary simply titled Hair. Rock goes behind the scenes and brings us the story behind our fascination with hair. Rock traveled all over the world conducting interviews with everyone involved with the hair business.

When will Jennifer Hudson admit the truth, and why is she mad at Essence magazine? She is currently on the cover, but she doesn’t appear to be happy with the story. She has also resumed her tour with Robin Thicke, and she is now sitting down throughout the concert and wearing flats. She is getting bigger and bigger. At this point, it’s like the elephant in the room. Admit it! You’re pregnant! What’s the big deal, and why are you being so secretive? Hudson is due to get married this summer to reality star turned wrestler David Otunga.

Sherri Shepherd is turning into the hardest working woman in show business. Shepherd has just signed a deal with the Lifetime network for a new show. The show, Sherri, will be loosely based on her life. Shepherd has often talked about how her husband cheated on her and got his mistress pregnant. Well, in the show, the girlfriend and baby move in with Shepherd. Shepherd will also be featured in the new Lee Daniels’ movie Precious, which comes out this fall. She will also continue her hosting duties on The View.

Speaking of Lee Daniels, guess who was the real star of the Cannes Film Festival? Apparently, it was Mariah Carey, along with her diamonds and her ego. Carey was there with Lee Daniels promoting their movie Precious. Carey goes ugly for this role as a counselor helping a troubled young girl. You gotta see the trailer. Carey actually looks good…. I mean she is really acting....go to our website at Wdasfm.com and click Patty’s Page and check out the trailer. Anywho, back at Cannes Film Festival, Carey had on five million dollars worth of jewelry. Sources say her ego was a little out of control. Carey had hubby Nick Cannon in tow, and they had their airs on.

Happy anniversary to The Cosby Show! Bill Cosby’s family sitcom remains the most watched series in TV history and marks its 25th anniversary this year with a special DVD box set, which is in stores now. It’s also the 20th anniversary of the movie Do The Right Thing. On June 20th, the Oscar nominated movie is being re-released on High-Def, Blu-ray and DVD. The new release will feature deleted and extended scenes, plus commentary from Writer-Director Spike Lee.

At the movies this week, two generations of the Wayans family spoof the teenage music films with Dance Flick. Keenen, Shawn and Marlon co-wrote the film, which stars Damon Wayans, Jr.

The CW network has cancelled the TV show The Game. The cast had hoped it would be spared, but the show is no more.

Tyler Perry’s Meet The Browns returns to TBS on May 27th.

Whatever happened to Singer Michel’le? Well, she is currently suing her ex-husband, Record Mogul Suge Knight. They have a child together, and she has gone to court seeking spousal and child support payments. Michel’le is best known for her hit songs No More Lies and Something In My Heart. Michel’le also used to date Knight’s former business partner, Dr. Dre.

Congrats to Smokey Robinson! The legendary singer/songwriter is being honored at The 22nd Annual Rhythm And Soul Awards. Robinson is getting The Heritage Award. Previous winners include Earth Wind & Fire and Bill Withers.

In a recent interview with People magazine, Kirstie Alley talked about her recent battle with the bulge, and how she has the hots for Jamie Foxx. Alley proclaimed, I Would Love To Have A Booty Call With Him. I wonder how Foxx feels about this. He is currently planning a music tour, which will bring him to Philly on September 13th.

Vanessa Williams is hard at work on a new CD. The Ugly Betty Star says her new CD, The Real Thing, is a collection of songs with a jazz and Latin flavor.

Shaq has gone back to school. Shaquille O’Neal is preparing for life after basketball. He is currently enrolled in classes at Syracuse University, where he is studying how to be a sportscaster and commentator. Shaq is no stranger to the cameras with his TV commercials and acting roles. He has a great personality, so it’s just a natural next step for him.

Lil’ Kim needs a publisher for her new tell-all book. Kim reveals all about what led to her stint in a federal prison, and how she went from jail to Dancing With The Stars. The book is called The Price Of Loyalty. Kim served a sentence at a federal facility in Philadelphia for committing perjury involving a shooting in Manhattan a few years ago.

The TV One network is gearing up for the second season of its popular documentary series Unsung. The series features well known singers, and the real story behind their rise and fall. The second installment of the series kicks off June 7th, and will feature Melba Moore, Minnie Riperton, Shalamar and Florence Ballard of The Supremes.

Get Ready for the latest DeBarge music sensation. 19-year old Kristina DeBarge is the daughter of James DeBarge, and she just released a new album.

Lionel Richie is back with a new CD. Just Go is the title, and he’s also featured on the new issue of Jet magazine. Lionel says he is always asked about a Commodores reunion. He says the guys are talking about it, and it will happen.

LL Cool J is coming to a TV near you this fall. His new cop drama, a spinoff of the NCIS series debuts on CBS.

Jamie Foxx will be hosting The 2009 BET Awards. The show airs June 28th on BET. Beyonce is scheduled to perform, and The O’Jays are getting a lifetime achievement award. Ne-Yo and Maxwell are also scheduled to perform.

Look for the latest Tyler Perry movie, Madea Goes To Jail, on DVD when it comes out June 16th.

Teena Marie’s latest CD, Congo Square, arrives in stores on June 9th. Check out Teena Marie this year at The West Oak Lane Jazz And Arts Festival. Teena Marie and The Whispers were just added to the lineup. It all takes place June 19th -21st on Ogontz Avenue, between 70th and 74th.

Beyonce is releasing a new video anthology based on her CD I Am….Sasha Fierce. Wal-Mart is carrying it exclusively starting June 16th.

Tavis Smiley is coming out with a new documentary called Stand, which arrives in stores on May 25th. The Stand documentary is a road trip featuring Smiley and ten of his friends, including Dr. Cornel West, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson and BeBe Winans, to name a few.

Get ready for the Neely’s. Pat and Gina Neely, from the Food Network show Down Home With The Neelys, have a new cookbook out filled with delicious recipes. Down Home With The Neelys is available in bookstores now.

Check out who’s coming to Good Morning America: Lionel Richie on May 29th, John Legend on June 5th, Jamie Foxx on June 19th and Queen Latifah on July 10th.

Singer Will Downing is marking his 20th anniversary in the music business with a new release called Classique. The album, his 14th, arrives in stores on June 16th. The new CD will feature Downing recording some classics including David Ruffin’s Statue Of A Fool and Barry White’s I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little Bit More. Downing says he’s excited about the project, and his health has been progressing since being diagnosed with the muscle disorder Polymyositis.

Will Smith and Samuel L. Jackson will be appearing in a new ABC money special called Unbroke. Unbroke is everything you need to know about money, credit cards, mortgages, the stock market and investing. The special airs May 29th on ABC.

Gladys Knight is coming out with a jewelry line. The singer/actress and business woman is exited about her new venture. The Gladys Knight Jewelry Line will be sold at major department stores and through The Home Shopping Network. The Gladys Knight Jewelry Line debuts in December. Also check her out in the new Tyler Perry Madea movie I Can Do Bad All By Myself, which opens in theatres in September.

The Norman Lear Collection, a boxed DVD set, is coming out on June 9th. Norman Lear is the famed producer behind the TV classics The Jeffersons, Good Times, All In The Family, Maude and Sanford & Son to name a few. The first seasons of those and other Lear classics will be included in the set.

Denzel Washington’s new movie, with John Travolta and James Gandolfini, The Taking Of Pelham 1, 2, 3 hits theatres on June 12th. We have the exclusive trailer on our website at wdasfm.com. Just go to Patty’s Page and check it out. Let me know what you think. I can’t wait to see it. It’s a remake of the 70’s action thriller, which originally starred Walter Matthau, about a trio of bad guys who take a New York subway care hostage. We also have the exclusive trailer of the new Lee Daniels’ movie Precious. The movie stars Mo’Nique and Mariah Carey, and is due out this fall. The trailer is powerful. This is another must see for me. Check both these movie trailers out on line at wdasfm.com under Patty’s page.

The Bynum Brothers are back with a new venture. They own Warmdaddy’s on Columbus Boulevard and had the old Zanzibar Blue in Center City. Their latest project is called RELISH at 7152 Ogontz Avenue. It replaces Sadiki’s. RELISH features live jazz music Thursday through Sunday. For more info go to relishphiladelphia.com or call 215-276-0170.

The Wendy Williams talk show is set to debut this July. The show is going nationwide, and will be seen locally on FOX 29.

The 15th Annual Essence Music Festival is set for July 3rd, 4th and 5th in New Orleans. Beyonce, John Legend, Eric Benet, Robin Thicke, Anita Baker, Bill Cosby and Maxwell are all on the bill. There will also be seminars featuring Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Roland Martin. Plus, there’ll be an all-star tribute to Bishop T.D. Jakes.

WHAT’S THE UNDERGROUND BUZZ?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Why do some Stars look different when they are not performing? It’s because they leave their booty pads at home.

When will older male Celebrities learn that most young girls only want your money? The new trick is getting pregnant by the older boyfriend, and will be set for the next 18 years. The older boyfriend looks foolish grinning in public….. ‘cause he already has grown children. These men have no idea how everybody is snickering behind their back about how they are getting played.

4-1-1 ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 11TH, 2009

Michael Jackson is back. The King Of Pop is making news about everything. Just to sum up this past week, he was hit with two major lawsuits. One was from Ola Ray, his co-star in the Thriller video. After 26 years, she feels she deserves a share of the royalties from the Thriller video. Jackson ex-publicist and assistant, Raymone Bain, hit him with a lawsuit as well. She is seeking $44 million for unpaid services. Bain claims Jackson stiffed her after years of loyal service. It was Bain who served as his spokesperson during his child molestation trial. Jackson is also dealing with promoters who claim he promised to do a reunion show with his brothers. The promoters claim they will derail his scheduled concerts in London if their contract obligations are not met. Jackson says he never signed an agreement. He has been busy rehearsing and trying to gain weight. Jackson has been told to put on some weight so he can handle his upcoming schedule. He has 50 sold out shows to do in London starting in July. He has been rehearsing with Director/Choreographer Kenny Ortega (High School Musical), who is staging the London shows. I hear Jackson may even do a duet with his 12-year son Prince Michael.

In other Jackson news, get ready for the Jackson brothers reality show. The show is scheduled to air on the A&E network and will star Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Randy. The show will focus on them as sons, fathers, entertainers and entrepreneurs. Now here is my big question, will the show deal with the tension between Jermaine and Randy? They both have children by the same woman.

Shaquille O’Neal is also doing a reality show for A&E called Love Shaq, which will focus on his family. And, then there’s a new reality show with MC Hammer. Hammertime will show his life after fame and fortune with his wife of 23 years and six kids.

Who leaked the nude pictures of Rihanna? The photos featuring her and ex-boyfriend Chris Brown are quite explicit. Chris Brown says don’t look at him. Meanwhile, Brown’s ex-dancers are speaking out on the issue of Rihanna. They are saying she caused the violent outburst involving Brown earlier this year, and that she was crazy and seeking publicity.

Jamie Foxx will be hosting the 2009 BET Awards. The show airs June 28th on BET. Beyonce is scheduled to perform, and The O’Jays are getting a lifetime achievement award.

Lil’ Kim is ready to tell all. The Price Of Loyalty is the name of the book that will go into detail about what led to her stint in prison a few years ago.

Get for latest Tyler Perry movie, Madea Goes To Jail, on DVD when it comes out June 16th.

KeKe Palmer, the star of the Nickelodeon show Tru Jackson, VP, has a hit on her hands. The live action comedy show has been renewed for a second season.

Congrats to Tina Campbell of the gospel duo Mary Mary. She is expecting baby number 4 with her husband.

Teena Marie’s latest CD, Congo Square, arrives in stores on June 9th. Check out Teena Marie this year at The West Oak Lane Jazz And Arts Festival. Teena Marie and The Whispers were just added to the lineup. It all takes place June 19th -21st on Ogontz Avenue between 70th and 74th.

Beyonce is releasing a new video anthology based on her CD I Am….Sasha Fierce. Wal-Mart is carrying it exclusively starting June 16th.

Tyrese says he’s having a problem with a stalker. The woman has targeted Tyrese since his recent divorce telling him now that you’re divorced, you can be mine. Tyrese says the woman is a certified loon, and he needs protection. Tyrese recently divorced Norma Gibson, the mother of his young daughter.

Orlando Jones, Dawnn Lewis, Tichina Arnold and LaChanze have been added to the cast of the revival of The Wiz. Ashanti is starring as “Dorothy.”

Jennifer Hudson is on the new issue of Essence magazine. Hudson recently gave her fiancé a five-carat ring when she proposed to him. For the record, he proposed to her first a few months ago. A summer wedding is planned.

Jada Pinkett Smith is on the cover of the new issue of Ebony magazine. Her new TNT series, Hawthorne, debuts June 16th. In her Ebony interview, Jada talks about her marriage to Will Smith, their children and her career.

Reverend Run has his hands full these days. His 19-year old son Jo-Jo was arrested last weekend for possession of marijuana. To make matters worse, Jo-Jo crashed into a police car trying to get away from the cops. If you have watched the MTV show Run’s House, you know that Jo-Jo is not a bad kid. He is more of a follower than a leader, so I’m sure this did not sit well with his parents or his Uncle Russ.

Aisha Tyler, the popular actress/comedienne, is in line to get a daytime talk show on ABC.

Actor Courtney B. Vance is getting a new show on ABC. It’s a sci-fi drama called Flashforward. Vance is married to Actress Angela Bassett.

Vin Diesel (Fast and Furious) has signed on for the new John Singleton movie Wheelman. The live action movie is based on the videogame.

Is Rapper/Actor Common the new Mr. T? The A-Team movie is finally being made, and it appears Common is playing the role of “B.A. Baracus,” made famous by Mr. T. When Director John Singleton was attached to the project, Ice Cube was rumored to be playing the role. Then there was talk of Tyrese getting the part. When Singleton turned down the project, a new casting search was launched, and it appears the role is going to Common. The A Team movie is based on the hit 80’s TV show which, along with Mr. T, starred George Peppard, Dirk Benedict and Dwight Schultz.

Tavis Smiley is coming out with a new documentary called Stand. Stand arrives in stores on May 25th. The stand documentary is a road trip featuring Smiley and ten of his friends, including Dr. Cornel West, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson and BeBe Winans, to name a few.

Nick Cannon, stop while you’re ahead! Cannon is participating in a public feud with Rapper Eminem, who may or may have not dated his wife, Singer Mariah Carey. Cannon will be hosting the NBC talent show America’s Got Talent. He should be concentrating on this, and not feuding with a rapper who has a new album to sell. In a series of interviews, Eminem has said some horrible things about what he supposedly did to Carey. He is probably lying to sell that new album. The past is the past! Whether he dated your wife or not, if you and Mariah are happy, go live your life. You don’t have to justify anything. Let Eminem talk his trash. He needs to rebuild his career. You’ve got Mariah Carey, her money and a new show. Don’t stoop to Eminem’s level.

Comedienne Wanda Sykes shook up a lot of people with her recent hosting stint at the White House Correspondent’s Dinner. Did Sykes go too far with some of her comments? She has a new talk show debuting in the fall on the Fox network, and she recently came out of the closet. Will this hurt her chances to launch the next phase of her career? Sykes is best known for her TV work with Chris Rock, The New Adventures Of Old Christine and The Wanda Sykes Show.

Ginuwine is trying to jump start his career. He has a hot new song out called Last Chance, and he is hoping this is the breakout song he’s been waiting for. In the meantime, he is suing his former business manager. Ginuwine says his former manager ripped him off for $400,000.

Congrats to Maya Rudolph. The former Saturday Night Live star is expecting her second child. Rudolph is also the daughter of the late Singer Minnie Riperton.

Get ready for the Neely’s. Pat and Gina Neely, from the Food Network show Down Home With The Neelys, have a new cookbook out filled with delicious recipes. Down Home With The Neelys is available in bookstores now.

Essence magazine is joining forces with the CNN network to report weekly on issues important to African Americans.

Check out who’s coming to Good Morning America: Lionel Richie on May 29th, John Legend on June 5th, Jamie Foxx on June 19th and Queen Latifah on July 10th.

Singer Will Downing is marking his 20th anniversary in the music business with a new release called Classique. The album, his 14th, arrives in stores on June 16th. The new CD will feature Downing recording some classics including David Ruffin’s Statue Of A Fool and Barry White’s I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little Bit More. Downing says he’s excited about the project, and his health has been progressing since being diagnosed with the muscle disorder Polymyositis.

Will Smith and Samuel L. Jackson will be appearing in a new ABC money special called Unbroke. Unbroke is everything you need to know about money, credit cards, mortgages, the stock market and investing. The special airs May 29th on ABC.

Gladys Knight is coming out with a jewelry line. The singer/actress and business woman is exited about her new venture. The Gladys Knight Jewelry Line will be sold at major department stores and through The Home Shopping Network. The Gladys Knight Jewelry Line debuts in December. Also check her out in the new Tyler Perry Madea movie I Can Do Bad All By Myself, which opens in theatres in September.

Ruben Studdard wants his fans back. Twenty million people voted him as their American Idol, and now he wants them to buy his new CD. Love Is will be a collection of romantic ballads. The CD is due out May 19th. Love Is will be Studdard’s fourth CD and features production from Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Studdard does some remakes, including Michael Jackson’s I Can’t Help It and Al Green’s For The Good Times.

The Norman Lear Collection, a boxed DVD set, is coming out on June 9th. Norman Lear is the famed producer behind the TV classics The Jeffersons, Good Times, All In The Family, Maude and Sanford & Son to name a few. The first seasons of those and other Lear classics will be included in the set.

Denzel Washington’s new movie, with John Travolta and James Gandolfini, The Taking Of Pelham 1, 2, 3 hits theatres on June 12th. We have the exclusive trailer on our website at wdasfm.com. Just go to Patty’s Page and check it out. Let me know what you think. I can’t wait to see it. It’s a remake of the 70’s action thriller with Walter Matthau about a trio of bad guys who take a New York subway care hostage.

The Bynum Brothers are back with a new venture. They own Warmdaddy’s on Columbus Boulevard and had the old Zanzibar Blue in Center City. Their latest project is called RELISH at 7152 Ogontz Avenue. It replaces Sadiki’s. RELISH features live jazz music Thursday through Sunday. For more info go to relishphiladelphia.com or call 215-276-0170.

The Wendy Williams talk show is set to debut this July. The show is going nationwide, and will be seen locally on FOX 29.

The 15th Annual Essence Music Festival is set for July 3rd, 4th and 5th in New Orleans. Beyonce, John Legend, Eric Benet, Robin Thicke, Anita Baker, Bill Cosby and Maxwell are all on the bill. There will also be seminars featuring Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Roland Martin. Plus, there’ll be an all-star tribute to Bishop T.D. Jakes.

WHAT’S THE UNDERGROUND BUZZ?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When this female Singer first came on the scene, she was the talk of the town. She was stylish, fun and fearless. Then she decided to change her style, her choice in men and her management team. Her latest album flopped. Maybe she should call up her old management to get her career back on track.

When these two media Superstars hooked up, many thought it was a match made in heaven. He was going to be her next big star, but there was one big problem. One media star has a troubled past and it is coming back to haunt him. Now the other media star won’t have anything to do with him.

Wanda Sykes at White House Correspondents' Dinner

President Obama at the White House Correspondents' Dinner

4-1-1 ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 4TH, 2009

Michael Jackson is being sued. Remember his Thriller video? Remember the lady who played his girlfriend in the video? Well Ola Ray is back. The former Playboy beauty is suing The King Of Pop saying she is owed money royalties from the video. In the meantime, how is Jackson preparing for his London shows which start in July? He’s been spotted getting hair plugs and minor plastic surgery. He has also been shopping, which has a lot of people concerned. Is he rehearsing? Is he taking this seriously? We don’t know? He has auditioned dancers, but what else is he doing? The backstage crew being hired for the shows has already been told to not touch The King Of Pop because he is delicate.

What is going on with comedian Eddie Griffin? The comic, who is known for drinking during his comedy act, recently broke down during a show in Connecticut. Griffin started talking about his family problems, including the fact that he just found out one of his kids that he was raising was not his. Griffin has 8 children, and friends say he is questioning their paternity.

When will Jennifer Hudson reveal all? Is she suffering from a throat ailment, or is she pregnant? Hudson has had to postpone her tour with Robin Thicke to deal with her health issues. Hudson is supposed to do a big promotion with The Today Show for a concert next week. Will she be able to do it? Will she reveal that she is pregnant?

Check out who’s coming to Good Morning America: Lionel Richie on May 29th, John Legend on June 5th, Jamie Foxx on June 19th and Queen Latifah on July 10th.

At the movies, it’s Star Trek: The New Adventures Of The USS Enterprise. This movie is focusing on Capt. Kirk and Mr. Spock in their early days. Director JJ Abrams has breathed new life into this movie series. Also check out Tyler Perry. Yes Tyler has a cameo! Don’t blink. You may miss him, but he is in the movie. This is the first time he has done someone else’s film. Perry says he has been a fan of Star Trek for years.

Also at the movie, it’s Next Day Air. The comedy, directed by West Philadelphia native and Temple Graduate Benny Boom, stars Donald Faison, Wood Harris and Mos Def. Director Boom is best known for his work with music videos. He says directing a movie has always been a lifelong dream.

It felt like the 80’s last week when Singer Al B. Sure breezed through town. Sure has a new CD coming out in June called Honey, I’m Home. It was 22 years ago when he burst onto the scene with the hits Nite And Day and Off On Your Own Girl. It was fun seeing him. He still looks good. You can check out the photos on our website, wdasfm.com, or on my Facebook page. I had to chance to talk Sure about his current project, and the personal drama surrounding his son (by Kim Porter) Quincy. Quincy has been very vocal about the strained relationship with his father. Al says he will not play out his relationship with his son in public. He says it is a family matter, and is asking for prayers for him and his family.

Can you see Actor Idris Elba as the first black James Bond? I can, and so can Elba. Elba, currently starring in Obsession with Beyonce, says he would be the perfect black James Bond. Elba, best known for his role as “Stringer Bell” on the HBO series The Wire, is actually British, but he does a great American accent.

Ashanti is off to see the wizard. Ashanti will be playing “Dorothy” in the musical revival, The Whiz.

Gospel sensation Marvin Sapp is joining Dr. Ian Smith’s 50 Million Pound Challenge. Sapp says he has struggled to lose weight all of his life? He says now is the time to set a good example for his church and family.

Singer Will Downing is marking his 20th anniversary in the music business with a new release called Classique. The album, his 14th, arrives in stores on June 16th. The new CD will feature Downing recording some classics including David Ruffin’s Statue Of A Fool and Barry White’s I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little Bit More. Downing says he’s excited about the project, and his health has been progressing since being diagnosed with the muscle disorder Polymyositis.

Despite her need for a new kidney, Singer Natalie Cole says the show must go on. So, she is embarking on a music tour that will bring her to this area in the fall.

Get ready for the Milli Vanilli movie. Back in the 90’s, Rob Pilatus and Fab Morvan were the rage: the hair, the eyes and those songs. In 1990, they won a Grammy for the song Girl You Know It’s True. Then their world came crashing down when they were exposed as frauds. Rob and Fab were not the real singers on the recordings, and it became the music scandal of the 90’s. The two were quickly pushed aside. Rob later died of an overdose in 1998. A deal is currently on the table to bring their story to the big screen.

When you think of great radio Dee Jays, you think of Jocko Henderson, and you think of The Guy With The Goods: Georgie Woods. Woods was so much more than a Dee Jay. He was good looking and smooth, but he also played a significant part in the civil rights movement. I would not be where I am today without the work of a Georgie Woods. A movie about his life is in the works. The movie Georgie Woods: The Forgotten Legend is due out in 2011.

We have to vote EVERYTIME! I bring this up because of how unfair it was when Lil’ Kim got bounced from Dancing With The Stars. A sistah can’t catch a break on that show: Mel B, Laila Ali and now Lil’ Kim. Meanwhile on America Idol, Paula Abdul is finally fessing up about her addiction to pain killers. In an interview with Ladies Home Journal, Abdul says she went under detox last fall. She says she became addicted to painkillers to deal with the pain resulting from her dancing and cheerleading days. In other Idol news, how are they going to ease the new fourth judge out? Kara is not fitting in. In a recent interview, she admitted she only signed on for one season.

Regina King’s new NBC cop drama Southland has been extended on the network. 13 more shows have been ordered. Also look for Actor Derek Luke in the fall debut of the NBC drama Trauma.

This fall get ready for Cleveland. This is the animated spinoff of the FOX hit series Family Guy. Cleveland will feature the voices of Actresses Sanaa Lathan and Nia Long.

En Vogue is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. Dawn, Cindy, Terri and Maxine are back together working on a new album.

Jamie Foxx is looking to secure the rights to do a movie about famed Boxer Mike Tyson. Foxx says he is the person to bring this story to the big screen. In addition to producing, Foxx would also star. Tyson is currently out promoting a new documentary on his life. In the documentary, Tyson doesn’t hold back as he talks about the rise and fall of his career.

Dennis Rodman has had enough. The former basketball great has decided to enter rehab for his alcohol addiction. Since retiring from the NBA, Rodman has been involved in one bad incident after another. Rodman’s wife, family, former coaches and friends all played a part in staging an intervention to get Rodman to get his life together.

Will Smith and Samuel L. Jackson will be appearing in a new ABC money special called Unbroke. Unbroke is everything you need to know about money, credit cards, mortgages, the stock market and investing. The special airs May 29th on ABC.

Gladys Knight is coming out with a jewelry line. The singer/actress and business woman is exited about her new venture. The Gladys Knight Jewelry Line will be sold at major department stores and through The Home Shopping Network. The Gladys Knight Jewelry Line debuts in December. Also check her out in the new Tyler Perry Madea movie I Can Do Bad All By Myself, which opens in theatres in September.

Ruben Studdard wants his fans back. Twenty million people voted him as their American Idol, and now he wants them to buy his new CD. Love Is will be a collection of romantic ballads. The CD is due out May 19th. Love Is will be Studdard’s fourth CD and features production from Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Studdard does some remakes, including Michael Jackson’s I Can’t Help It and Al Green’s For The Good Times.

Bill Cosby has yet another big honor coming up this fall. He’s getting The Mark Twain Prize For American Humor. Previous winners of this award include George Carlin, Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Crystal and Steve Martin.

For a record fourth time, Samuel L. Jackson will be hosting the ESPY Awards. Sports biggest night is set for July 19th on ESPN.

Jada Pinkett Smith’s new TV drama about nurses, Hawthorne, debuts June 16th on the TNT network.

The Norman Lear Collection, a boxed DVD set, is coming out on June 9th. Norman Lear is the famed producer behind the TV classics The Jeffersons, Good Times, All In The Family, Maude and Sanford & Son to name a few. The first seasons of those and other Lear classics will be included in the set.

The 2010 Grammy Awards are set for January 31st.

Denzel Washington’s new movie, with John Travolta and James Gandolfini, The Taking Of Pelham 1, 2, 3 hits theatres on June 12th. We have the exclusive trailer on our website at wdasfm.com. Just go to Patty’s Page and check it out. Let me know what you think. I can’t wait to see it. It’s a remake of the 70’s action thriller with Walter Matthau about a trio of bad guys who take a New York subway care hostage.

The Bynum Brothers are back with a new venture. They own Warmdaddy’s on Columbus Boulevard and had the old Zanzibar Blue in Center City. Their latest project is called RELISH at 7152 Ogontz Avenue. It replaces Sadiki’s. RELISH features live jazz music Thursday through Sunday. For more info go to relishphiladelphia.com or call 215-276-0170.

The Wendy Williams talk show is set to debut this July. The show is going nationwide, and will be seen locally on FOX 29.

The 15th Annual Essence Music Festival is set for July 3rd, 4th and 5th in New Orleans. Beyonce, John Legend, Eric Benet, Robin Thicke, Anita Baker, Bill Cosby and Maxwell are all on the bill. There will also be seminars featuring Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Roland Martin. Plus, there’ll be an all-star tribute to Bishop T.D. Jakes.

WHAT’S THE UNDERGROUND BUZZ?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This Comic Legend needs help. He is in poor health, but he won’t admit it. In addition to his mental state, he acts very strange in public. He needs to see a doctor immediately.

Dick Gregory at the State of the Black Union

The Ties That Align Administration's Black Women Form A Strong Sisterhood

By Krissah Thompson
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, March 18, 2009; C01

Like two old girlfriends catching up, they ignored onlookers, hugged and laughed.

Donna Brazile, the political strategist and Washington veteran, peppered Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson with questions.

"How are the kids?" "Have you contacted the church? I don't go every Sunday but they know me."

Before she left, Jackson had an open invitation to Brazile's place for home-cooked red beans and rice, served up every Monday night.

"The sisterhood in this town, there's deep history here," Jackson said.

The "Obama women" -- as African American women who've taken big jobs in his administration have been nicknamed -- mark another step in the long journey of black women from outsiders to gatekeepers in political Washington. They have quietly entered their jobs with little attention paid to the fact that they are the largest contingent of high-ranking black women to work for a president.

Many are firsts -- as in the first black woman to run the Domestic Policy Council, the first black EPA chief and the first black woman to be deputy chief of staff. Last week, Obama tapped Margaret (Peggy) Hamburg to lead the Food and Drug Administration. If confirmed, Hamburg -- who is biracial (her mother is African American, her father Jewish) -- will also be a first.

Seven of about three dozen senior positions on President Obama's team are filled by African American women. Veterans in town see them as part of the steady evolution of power for black women, not only in the White House but also across the country -- in the business world, in academia, in policy circles.

Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, a District native who served in the Carter administration, said the significance of Obama sending Valerie Jarrett to represent the administration at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, days after he took office, was not lost on her. There, Jarrett was introduced by economist Klaus Schwab as "President Obama's personal representative; influential adviser; trusted confidante. . . . When she speaks, she speaks really with his voice."

To Norton, it was an indication of the broad authority that black women now wield.

"I'm not sure there's ever been a black woman who has enjoyed as much of the president's confidence as Valerie Jarrett. She has not been compartmentalized and is used in a variety of ways that I think is a first," Norton said. "The Obama women are a sign of how far we've come."

Inside the young administration, the women said they have been slammed with work and left with little time to think about their place in history. But there are moments.

When Jackson, with bodyguard in tow, walks through the corridors of the EPA's vast complex in the Federal Triangle, she invariably is stopped by one of her employees, often an African American woman, who says, "Thank you for being here." She is reminded not only of the history Obama made but also of the history she is making. Black women make up about 192,000 of the more than 1.7 million members of the federal workforce, according to the Office of Management and Budget.

"It's an indication that I'm one of theirs," Jackson said.

It's at church on Sundays that Melody Barnes, who heads Obama's Domestic Policy Council, is reminded. So many people want to stop and talk that her receiving line at the end of service is often as long as the pastor's.

"I certainly feel it when someone my grandfather's age stops me to say, 'Sweetheart, I'm proud of you,' but at the same time we are here to do a job," Barnes said. "For the most part, when we walk into the West Wing, we are focused on that job throughout the day."

Barnes was a principal figure behind the passage of the $787 billion stimulus package, held interviews with the media and called on allies in Congress -- where she worked for many years as chief counsel for Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) on the Judiciary Committee. Her next priorities are to help shepherd plans for universal health care and improving public education.

Mona Sutphen, the president's deputy chief of staff and a foreign affairs expert, has been an advocate for loosening the long-standing Cuban embargo. Her ideas became law last week when less restrictive travel and trade rules were added to a spending bill passed by Congress.

White House Social Secretary Desirée Rogers parses guest lists, largely shapes the Obamas' social profile and orchestrates the Washington dance of dinners where politics are served around the table. In all of the busy-ness, there are times, Rogers said, when her old friend Jarrett will stop her in the hallway and dwell for a second on the import of their experience as African American women in the top echelons of the White House.

"I'm so fast. I'm always moving, and Valerie will say to me, 'Slow down. Just think about what we're doing,' " Rogers said. "It is important to maintain those friends and relationships -- that lifeblood that sustain you as you work in a very historic time."

Not so long ago, the appointment of a black woman to a senior position in any administration was a historic marker, a first. But the collective arrival of the women serving in senior positions in Obama's presidency has been noted only in small ways and mostly within the "sisterhood." A few weeks before Obama's inauguration, one anonymous admirer sent out an e-mail with photographs of seven senior staffers under the title "Sisters in the White House."

It listed Jarrett, Jackson, Barnes, Sutphen, Rogers, U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice and Cassandra Butts, deputy White House counsel.

It read like a dishy letter passed among girlfriends: "Did you know this sister is Valerie Jarrett, Transition Team Co-Chair? Did you know she's the 4th generation of educated professionals in her family and is a Stanford and U of M graduate? (A former corporate attorney, as the Chief of Staff in the Daley Administration, she hired an Ivy-Leaguer named Michelle Robinson!)"

"Most of us had met each other, but seeing the e-mail made me step back and think this is a really diverse and compelling group of women," Sutphen said.

The message was a small nod to progress, a barometer of the advancements of women and minorities.

"It's like we have a garden out there, and it's been watered," Norton said. "Black women have been preparing themselves for this day. They are more than ready."

Women earn about two-thirds of the associate and bachelor's degrees awarded to black students, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, and Bureau of Labor data show that more than 2.6 million black women were employed in management and professional jobs last year. The women working for Obama have helped run Chicago city government, led nonprofit organizations, held top jobs at think tanks and influential positions on Capitol Hill.

Even so, women and minorities still lack representation in proportion to their numbers on the federal level. In Congress, only 90 members are women, 42 are African American, 28 are Latino and nine are Asian. Of late, black women have done better in Cabinet-level appointments and senior White House positions. President Bill Clinton appointed two black women to his Cabinet and several served in senior White House positions. President George W. Bush named Condoleezza Rice his national security adviser and later secretary of state, making her the highest-ranking black woman in the country's history.

It was only 32 years ago that President Jimmy Carter appointed Patricia Roberts Harris to serve as secretary of housing and urban development, making her the first black woman in the presidential line of succession. Harris said at the time of her HUD appointment that her gender and race made her a "two for one" and called the hoopla around her nomination the result of "tragic exclusion." In stories about her experience as the first, she described herself as lonely.

Carter later named Eleanor Holmes Norton head of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and she recalls being "marketed" as the first woman to hold the position.

She still has a framed photo in her congressional office of herself posing with both Shirley Chisholm and Coretta Scott King, who came to see Norton and celebrate her EEOC post.

A cadre of black women were introduced to national politics during the Rev. Jesse Jackson's unsuccessful bids for the presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988. They included Brazile, the first African American to direct a major political campaign, and Minyon Moore, who was an assistant to Clinton and served as director of White House political affairs and the Office of Public Liaison.

"We kind of burst onto the scene," Moore said. "It became more normal to see an African American woman in a position of power."

In their days in the Clinton administration, Moore would lean on Alexis Herman, the first African American woman to serve as labor secretary, and Hazel O'Leary, the first to serve as energy secretary.

"You never felt alone," Moore said.

Now, the Obama women call on their predecessors and say they are getting to know one another as they find their way in Washington. Jarrett and Rogers have a deep personal friendship forged in Chicago. Others are acquaintances or work friends who met during the Clinton administration, on Capitol Hill or during Obama's campaign. Some are hoping lasting bonds will form, which could leave Washington with a good old sisters network.

"We are fortunate that we are in a time where it isn't new that African American women would have important roles in Washington. It is not becoming old hat, but it is something people are more comfortable with," Butts said. "It is both absolutely as it should be, and it is also a bit surreal."

Butts put an interview on hold to pick up a call from Cheryl Mills, who in the Clinton administration became the first black women to serve as deputy White House counsel. Mills, now Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton's chief of staff, understands Butts's job and the dynamic of working in the White House bubble.

When Jackson moved from New Jersey to take up her EPA post, she phoned Herman, who now owns a District-based company that advises corporations on workplace diversity.

"She's been through some of what I'm seeing," Jackson said. "She knows what it's like to have to figure out this town. . . . It's definitely nice to be in a place where there are more of us."

Jackson said the advice Herman gave her is private but, as a whole, the Washington sister-friends have done everything from recommend churches and hairstylists to offer fashion advice and babysitting services, Jackson said.

"As one of them put it: 'We're honest. We will tell you, that suit does not work. It makes your butt look big. That would work for somebody else but not you. No, don't show up looking like that,' " Jackson said, smiling. "I don't have sisters so I always loved close girlfriends. They have made it much, much easier for the first few weeks here."

They also share hard-earned wisdom for surviving the political game.

O'Leary passed on a story about her early days at the Energy Department. During her first month, she had a poster made with photos of all the previous department secretaries and herself. Face after face was a white man, ending with O'Leary's picture. The line at the top of the poster read: "This is not your father's Department of Energy."

"In retrospect, I probably shouldn't have done that," she said with a laugh.

Free KFC Coupon from Oprah until May 6th

Get 2 pieces of grilled chicken, 2 individual sides and a biscuit from Oprah.com

Limited Time Download
Coupon download available from 9am CDT on May 5, 2009 to 11: 59pm CDT on May 6, 2009.

Follow this link:
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Letting Go

Letting Go does not mean to stop caring-it means not to take responsibility for someone else.

Letting Go is not to cut myself off from others-it's realizing I can't control others.

Letting Go is not to enable others-it's to allow learning from natural consequences.

Letting Go is to admit my own powerlessness, which means the outcome is not in my hands.

Letting Go is not to try to change or blame others-but to make the most of myself.

Letting Go is not to care for-but to care about.

Letting Go is not to fix-but to be supportive.

Letting Go is not to be in the middle of arranging-but to be on the sidelines cheering.

Letting Go is not to be protective-it is to permit another to face reality.

Letting Go is not to deny-but to accept.

Letting Go is not to nag, scold or argue-it is to search out my own shortcomings and correct them.

Letting Go is not to adjust everything to my desires-but to take each day as it comes, and cherish myself in it.

Letting Go is not to criticize and regulate others-but to be what I can become.

Letting Go is not to regret the past-but to grow and live for the future.

Letting Go is to fear less, and love more!

(I don't know who wrote it, but it is the perfect message for me today!)

4-1-1 ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 27TH, 2009

The debate rages on about who should be the first black “James Bond.” Well Idris Elba says it should be him. Elba is currently starring in the movie Obsessed with Beyonce. Elba is best known for his role as “Stringer Bell” in the HBO series The Wire. I think he should play 007. He’s sexy. He’s fine, and he can act. Sean “P Diddy” Combs wants to play the part, but I have two words for Puff: SIT DOWN!!! Elba should get it. A lot of people don’t know his true background because he plays an American so well, but Idris Elba is British. He’s currently in talks with producers to let him try out for the part.

Let’s ask a question about Elba’s movie co-star. Is Beyonce the new Box Office Queen? This past week, she was when her movie, Obsessed, took in over $28 million. So, what’s next for the megastar? She may have a role in the new Avengers movie. The movie is due out 2012. If she gets in, she would play She-Hulk and be all green. In the meantime, Beyonce is coming to Philly on June 26th. She’s in concert at the Wachovia Center.

Al B. Sure is getting ready to release his new project, Honey I’m Home. Sure is best known for the 80’s hits Nite and Day and Off On Your Own. He is currently working as a radio host at a station in Los Angeles. Recently, he’s been making gossip blogs because of his strained relationship with his son, Quincy. Quincy’s mother is Kim Porter. Whatever is going on, Al needs to rectify the situation and make amends with his son. This should be done privately, and not through internet blogs. Sean “P Diddy” Combs has raised Quincy, now it’s time for Sure to do what he has to do. The situation is giving his public profile a beating.

Whether she is pregnant or not, Jennifer Hudson is getting married this summer. Hudson is engaged to be married to David Otunga. He is training to become a professional wrestler. Otunga is best known for his role as Punk on the VH1 reality show I Love New York. Fantasia is going to serve as a bridesmaid, and Hudson’s sister Julia will be her maid of honor.

Look for Mary J. Blige in the season finale of the NBC comedy 30 Rock. Mary’s episode airs Thursday, May 14th.

Maxwell is back! The new single is Pretty Wings from the upcoming CD Black Summer Nights. The new CD comes out July 7th.

Will Michael Jackson look different when he hits the stage for his London concerts? The King Of Pop was seen leaving a Beverly Hills hospital, and his hair was wrapped. Jackson may have gotten a hair transplant because he is tired of wearing wigs.

Terrence Howard is still bitter about losing the role of “War Machine” in the new Iron Man movie. Contract negotiations did not go well, and Howard was released from the project. Howard says Marvel Comics made a big mistake by dropping him from the project. Howard says he is happy for Don Cheadle, who is replacing him in the movie, but Howard also says he was misled by producers.

We had some notable passings this week. The Godfather Of Gospel Music, the Reverend Timothy Wright succumbed to injuries from a car crash he was in earlier this year. Wright lost his wife and grandson in that accident. TV Legend Beatrice Arthur died from cancer at the age of 86 over the weekend. Bea Arthur was best known for her Emmy-winning roles as Maude in the 70’s and as “Dorothy” on The Golden Girls. Artist Ernie Barnes also died this week. Barnes had a great career as a pro football player, but it was his artwork that put him on the map. When you think of the classic album cover of Marvin Gaye’s I Want You and of course the TV show Good Times, you see the infamous painting The Sugar Shack. Barnes had a unique painting style that was known all over the world.

Singer/Actor Tyrese got some good news in court. Tyrese is not required to pay his soon to be ex-wife any additional money. Tyrese’s wife, Norma Gibson, has to abide by the prenup because they were married for less than a year. She gets no money, and she will have to move out his house. Tyrese and his wife have a young daughter.

Gloria Gaynor is best known for her disco anthem, I Will Survive. I call it the women’s national anthem. Well, Gaynor is getting ready for a comeback. She is working on a gospel album due out next year.

BeBe and CeCe Winans are reuniting. The popular brother and sister recording duo stopped recording together years ago, but they recently reunited for the song Close To You. CeCe is on her way to town when the McDonald’s Gospel Tour comes to Deliverance Evangelistic Church at 21st and Lehigh on May 14th.

The ABC Network is bringing back Ugly Betty. The popular comedy show was put on hiatus, and now it is back. Betty will also return for a new season in the fall.

Mike Tyson is being hailed for a new documentary about his life. Tyson, the larger than life boxer, talks candidly about his controversial life, and the many dumb decisions he has made.

What made Tyler Perry’s stalker snap? 36-year old Dawn Wilson faces 100 years in jail for stalking Perry. In addition to her menacing letters describing death, she would also hang around his Atlanta studios and not leave him alone. Wilson is currently in jail. She used to work for the government, and her former co-workers expressed surprise at her behavior. I’m sure the government did extensive background checks on her. Who knew she was off? Her co-workers say this is not the Wilson they know.

Oprah says stop hating on her hair. She doesn’t wear a weave. In a recent episode of her show, Oprah talked about her hair and how she doesn’t wear weaves, wigs or hairpieces. She says she has always had hair, and she showed never before seen photos to prove it.

Will Smith and Samuel L. Jackson will be appearing in a new ABC money special called Unbroke. Unbroke is everything you need to know about money, credit cards, mortgages, the stock market and investing. The special airs May 29th on ABC.

The holiday classic Black Nativity is coming to the big screen. Director Kasi Lemmons (Eve’s Bayou) is adapting the production as a movie.

Taraji P. Henson will be teaming up with Rapper Common for the new movie Date Night. Date Night arrives in theatres next year and will also star Tina Fey (30 Rock), Steve Carrell (The Office), Mark Wahlberg and James Franco.

The Michelle Obama Stylebook is coming out next week. The First Lady will be featured in Michelle Style: Celebrating The First Lady Of Fashion.

Gladys Knight is coming out with a jewelry line. The singer/actress and business woman is exited about her new venture. The Gladys Knight Jewelry Line will be sold at major department stores and through The Home Shopping Network. The Gladys Knight Jewelry Line debuts in December. Also check her out in the new Tyler Perry Madea movie I Can Do Bad All By Myself, which opens in theatres in September.

Mo’Nique and Gospel Sensation Vickie Winans are all part of the new changes at the BET network. Mo’Nique’s late night talk show debuts in the fall, And Vickie Winans will host a gospel variety show, which debuts next year. BET is also introducing a new network for adults. Centric will be geared to adults 25-54 years old and launches in October. Execs at BET say the new adult network will compliment the original BET network, which celebrates 29 years on the air this year.

Teddy Riley says look for a Guy reunion later this year. Teddy along with Aaron and Damien Hall are going to try to get it together and put their differences aside. Guy was best known for the hits I Like, Goodbye Love and A Piece Of My Love. The guys have all experienced financial difficulties, so they should get back together and make some money.

“Mr. Big” will be back. The contract squabbling is over and Actor Chris Noth will be returning as “Mr. Big” in the new Sex And The City movie. In other Sex And The City news, congrats to Sarah Jessica Parker and her husband Matthew Broderick. They are expecting twin girls via a surrogate this summer. They already have a six-year old son.

After Dancing With The Stars, Football Great Lawrence Taylor wants to see his life on the big screen. “L.T.” had a great career with the New York Giants, but he also battled and conquered his demons with drugs and alcohol. He is currently in talks with producers to make the movie project happen.

Ruben Studdard wants his fans back. Twenty million people voted him as their American Idol, and now he wants them to buy his new CD. Love Is will be a collection of romantic ballads. The CD is due out May 19th. Love Is will be Studdard’s fourth CD and features production from Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Studdard does some remakes, including Michael Jackson’s I Can’t Help It and Al Green’s For The Good Times.

At the movies this week, the X-Men’s Hugh Jackman stars as Wolverine, and Alfre Woodard, Charles S. Dutton and Nicole Beharie star in American Violet.

Bill Cosby has yet another big honor coming up this fall. He’s getting The Mark Twain Prize For American Humor. Previous winners of this award include George Carlin, Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Crystal and Steve Martin.

For a record fourth time, Samuel L. Jackson will be hosting the ESPY Awards. Sports biggest night is set for July 19th on ESPN.

Jada Pinkett Smith’s new TV drama about nurses, Hawthorne, debuts in June on the TNT network.

The Norman Lear Collection, a boxed DVD set, is coming out on June 9th. Norman Lear is the famed producer behind the TV classics The Jeffersons, Good Times, All In The Family, Maude and Sanford & Son to name a few. The first seasons of those and other Lear classics will be included in the set.

The 2010 Grammy Awards are set for January 31st.

Denzel Washington’s new movie, with John Travolta and James Gandolfini, The Taking Of Pelham 1, 2, 3 hits theatres on June 12th. We have the exclusive trailer on our website at wdasfm.com. Just go to Patty’s Page and check it out. Let me know what you think. I can’t wait to see it. It’s a remake of the 70’s action thriller with Walter Matthau about a trio of bad guys who take a New York subway care hostage.

The Bynum Brothers are back with a new venture. They own Warmdaddy’s on Columbus Boulevard and had the old Zanzibar Blue in Center City. Their latest project is called RELISH at 7152 Ogontz Avenue. It replaces Sadiki’s. RELISH features live jazz music Thursday through Sunday. For more info go to relishphiladelphia.com or call 215-276-0170.

The Wendy Williams talk show is set to debut this July. The show is going nationwide, and will be seen locally on FOX 29.

The 15th Annual Essence Music Festival is set for July 3rd, 4th and 5th in New Orleans. Beyonce, John Legend, Eric Benet, Robin Thicke, Anita Baker, Bill Cosby and Maxwell are all on the bill. There will also be seminars featuring Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Roland Martin. Plus, there’ll be an all-star tribute to Bishop T.D. Jakes.

WHAT’S THE UNDERGROUND BUZZ?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This Media Personality is doing everything she can to stay relevant. She is keeping up with the latest social networking sites. She has even befriended her enemies, but it’s still not working. No one is interested in her.

Ernie Barnes Dies

Acclaimed artist Ernie Barnes, best known for his unique figurative style of painting and whose work was immortalized on classic television and album covers, died last night, according to reports. He was 70 years old.

According to his official biography, Barnes was born July 15, 1938 to Ernest Sr. and Fannie Mae Geer Barnes during the Jim Crow era in Durham, North Carolina. As a child, young Ernest would accompany her to work and was allowed to peruse the extensive collection of art books. One day in junior high school, a teacher found the self-admitted fat, introverted young Barnes drawing in a notebook while hiding from the bullies who taunted him daily.

For over 40 years, his art has been admired and collected internationally. His national traveling “Beauty of the Ghetto” exhibition in the 1970s featured some of his timeless works as “Storyteller,” “High Aspirations” and “The Graduate.” His famous 1971 “Sugar Shack” dance scene appeared on the “Good Times” television show and on the Marvin Gaye album, “I Want You.”

Who Knew?! Black Female Navy Admiral Thwarts Pirates

Rear Admiral Michelle Howard

While we were so focused on the captain of the U.S. cargo ship that was rescued from the Somali pirates, our attention was diverted from the very person that lead the charge to get him back to his family.

The Navy Times ran a story on Rear Admiral Michelle Howard who took command of the Navy’s counterpiracy task force only three days before the pirates attacked the U.S. cargo ship Maersk Alabama and snagged the captain as a hostage.

The U.S. Navy hadn’t seen this type of action in a very long time and piracy hasn’t been something the Navy has had to counter attack in over 100 years. Howard’s expertise and illustrious Navy career showed her to be the perfect person for this mission. She is the first female graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy to be promoted to Rear Admiral.

In the article, she said, ““Right now, the policy is, fight piracy, and I am all about that policy … We are quite capable of staying out here and doing this mission.”

Check out the story here, but also peruse her many accomplishments as career Navy personnel. We salute you Rear Admiral Michelle Howard. Also, a big ol’ thank you to Rhonda Mitchell (Pasadena, CA) for hipping us to this story.

Robin Harris - BeBe's Kids

Robin Harris - Partners in Crime

4-1-1 ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 20TH, 2009

Ebony and Jet magazines are under reorganization. Due to the economic climate, the magazines are suffering and staffers have had to reapply for jobs. The magazines have been staples in the African American community for over 50 years. I cannot imagine these publications not being a part of my life. Jet magazine, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, has named a new editor in chief. The mag is best known for entertainment features and the Jet Beauty Of The Week. To save money, the magazine has been combining printings by putting out double issues. Linda Rice Johnson, the daughter of the late Publisher and Founder John Johnson, says they will remain committed to making Jet and Ebony magazines a part of the community. An internet campaign is currently underway urging people to buy subscriptions to save the magazines.

When one door closes, another one opens for Mo’Nique. She lost her radio gig, so now she is returning to TV. Mo’Nique has just signed a deal to host a late night show on BET.

Tyler Perry has had his stalker arrested. Dawn Wilson has been listed as a very dangerous person who has been stalking Perry for awhile. He had a restraining order against her, but she would show up at his Atlanta studios anyway. Wilson has been charged with a felony aggravated stalking count, and she is currently in jail.

I recently had a chance to give an Oscar winner one of my special dishes. True to my word, I gave Jamie Foxx some of my famous peach cobbler. He gave me my props! Check out the pictures on our website at WDASFM.COM and on my Facebook page. Jamie’s new movie The Soloist with Robert Downey, Jr. is in theaters this week.

It’s a boy for Singer Jill Scott and her fiancé Lil’ Jon Roberts. Hamilton Jett Roberts, a.k.a. Jack, arrived earlier this week. Scott was in labor for two days. Lil’ Jack arrived at 7 pounds, 8 ounces and 21 inches long. Scott is currently starring in the HBO series The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency.

Hey Jennifer Hudson, do you have something to tell us? Is Hudson pregnant? Some people in her circle say yes she is. Others claim she isn’t. Hudson is currently on tour with Robin Thicke. Could it be an insurance issue because she is on the road? Her clothes are tight around her stomach, and when people see her in concert, that’s all they talk about. After her recent tragedies with her family, maybe she isn’t ready to reveal. Hudson is engaged to former Reality Star David Otunga who played Punk on VH 1’s I Love New York.

Is Janet Jackson taking human growth hormones to lose weight? According to published reports, this is the secret element Jackson has been using to lose weight. Jackson is known for her fluctuating weight. Human growth hormones have a big fan in Actor Sylvester Stallone. HGH is known to slow aging, decrease fat and boost stamina.

A new unauthorized biography is coming out about Diana Ross. The Supremes: A Saga Of Motown Dreams, Success And Betrayal will talk about her relationship with Motown Founder Berry Gordy, and her strained relationship with her fellow Supremes Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard and Cindy Birdsong. Their 2000 reunion tour never took off because they ladies couldn’t agree. I’m sure The Boss is not worried about another book right now. She has bigger fish to fry. Her young 20-year old son Evan Ross, the actor, recently married his girlfriend, and he didn’t make her sign a prenup. Evan’s dad is the late Norwegian Adventurist Arne Naess, Jr., and he was very wealthy.

What’s happening with Basketball Great Allen Iverson, and why is he turning into a shell of his former self? Iverson has seen better days. The former 76er and Denver Nugget is now with the Detroit Pistons. He is out for the season with a bad back, but don’t look for him to return to the Pistons. He has added nothing to the team, and they want him and his attitude to go. Iverson was recently banned from two casinos in Detroit. Apparently, he loses a lot. When he loses, he goes crazy, acting loud and disruptive. The casinos in Detroit have banned him and his bodyguards.

Congratulations to Supermodel Heidi Klum and her husband Pop Singer Seal. They are expecting baby number three. They already have two sons, and she has a daughter from a previous relationship he adopted. Congrats also to Grey’s Anatomy Star Ellen Pompeo and her husband, Music Producer Chris Ivery. They are expecting their first child.

Brandy has just signed a deal for a new comedy show on ABC. The show, This Little Piggy, debuts in the fall. In the show, Brandy will play a high maintenance wife.

Fantasia is also coming to TV. The former American Idol winner will be featured in her own reality show, which is set to debut next year. Fantasia also starts her stint in the national touring company of The Color Purple in June. She’ll reprise her role as “Celie.”

Verdine White of Earth, Wind & Fire not only has fabulous hair, but he is going to have fabulous eyes. White and his wife, Shelly, have designed a new eyewear line. The Verdine White Diamond Eyewear Line is coming out this summer.

Are there too many judges on American Idol? If so, who will go? This season, producers wanted to shake things and add a new judge, Songwriter Kara DioGuardi. Well it has been a disaster. The shows have been running over, and some nights all the judges can’t make comments to fit in the show on time. Changes are coming, and there will only be three judges next year. In a recent interview on Nightline, Paula Abdul talked about the controversy. She says she loves the show and what she’s doing. She says she cannot be replaced. Her contract is set to expire at the end of this season. Abdul also shot down stories about drinking and prescription pill abuse. Abdul stated she has never been drunk or high. She says she spends her money on clothes and shoes. Last season, there was a lot of weirdness surrounding Abdul. This year, it appears she has gotten her act together. Would anybody be willing to leave Idol on their own? According to Simon, he would if the rating went down on the show. He had no comment on whether he gets along with new Judge Kara. But, if you watch the show, you can see the tension between him, Kara and Randy Jackson.

The stars of Everybody Hates Chris are already plotting their next career moves. The show is ending on May 8th at the request of Creator Chris Rock. The character is in the 10th grade, and the show is based on Rock’s life. Well, in real life, he dropped out of school in the tenth grade to become a comedian. Terry Crews, who plays the dad, has already lined up a reality show on BET. Tichina Arnold is lining up projects as well. She currently owes the state of California thousands in back taxes, so she has to find a job.

So guess who is back together on the quiet tip? It’s former Football Star Michael Strahan and Nicole Murphy, the ex-wife of Eddie Murphy. Strahan recently retired from the New York Giants and he lost a ton of money in his last divorce. Strahan and Murphy made headlines a few weeks ago when Strahan caught Murphy cheating on him with a record executive. Strahan had a tracking device placed in her car, and she got busted. So you’re probably saying, so why are they back together? Nicole Murphy is loaded. She is one of the richest divorcees in town, and Strahan loves all the perks. Plus, her five kids by Eddie Murphy really like the former football star.

Teena Marie’s new album, Congo Square, arrives in stores on June 9th. In addition to singing with her daughter, Teena teams up with Faith Evans, Howard Hewitt, MC Lyte, Shirley Murdock and George Duke.

Singer/Producer/Songwriter Babyface is getting ready to start up a new record label. Soda Pop Records is set to debut later this year.

The King Children are at it again. The children of the late Civil Rights Leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are seeking a cut of the money raised for the monument being built in their father’s honor on the National Mall. Private monies are being used for this project, which will feature a 28-foot sculpture of Dr. King. The King children want to be compensated for their dad’s words and image.

The Rev. Creflo Dollar is being investigated for cruelty to animals. The multimillionaire televangelist was found to have malnourished horses on his Georgia property. Many horses were found to have no water while others had dirty water.

Author Karrine Steffans, a.k.a., Superhead is back with a new project. Steffans is now married to actor Darius McCrary (“Eddie Winslow” of Family Matters), and she is gearing up to release a new book. The Vixen Manual, a how to guide for women, is due out in July. Steffans has made many changes in her life since releasing her explosive Confessions Of A Video Vixen. In the 2005 book shocker, she named names of the celebrities she has affairs with. She followed that up with The Vixen Diaries. In addition to being married, Steffans is now attending The Church Of Living Waters Of San Fernando Valley, where Barry Lyons is the pastor.

So what is Vivica A. Fox looking for in a man? Well, she says she loves younger men. Fox, 44, says she is looking for a well established 20 something because she doesn’t want to be left with the check. Fox is currently hosting the TV Land reality show The Cougar.

Robert Brookins has died. The singer, songwriter and producer died last week at the age of 46 from a heart attack. Brookins is best known for his work with The Whispers, Stephanie Mills, Jeffrey Osborne, Deniece Williams, Bobby Brown and George Duke.

Will Smith has just signed a deal with the Sci-Fi network. He’s going to be the executive producer of a crime drama called Unfinished Business. The show is about an ex-cop who helps dead people deal with their unfinished business.

Stephen A. Smith has left the building. The popular sports analysts for ESPN couldn’t reach a deal with management. I hear they wanted him to take a pay cut. In a statement, Smith said it was a wonderful ride with great memories, but nothing lasts forever and it’s time to move on. Smith was both loud and informative. He knows his sports. I hope he lands something soon.

Angela Bassett will be on hand as The TV Land Awards salutes Earth, Wind & Fire with their Entertainer Award. The awards show will air on the network this weekend.

It’s a Buff Bam on the May issue of The Washingtonian. The magazine is featuring a shirtless President Obama on the cover wearing only his swimming trunks. The subtitle simply says, Our New Neighbor.

Comedian/Actor Mike Epps says he should have been given the title role in the new Richard Pryor movie. Epps claims Pryor told him if a movie version was ever made, Epps should play the role. The current project about Pryor’s life is currently underway with Eddie Murphy in the starring role.

Lebron James is ready for his closeup. The basketball phenom of the Cleveland Cavaliers has a new movie coming out in October. The movie, More Than A Game, is a coming of age movie about friendship, loyalty and the love of the game.

The first single from the forthcoming Whitney Houston album was written by famed songwriter Diane Warren. The song, I Didn’t Know My Strength, is tailor made for Houston, who is on a comeback after years of drug abuse. Houston is clean and hard at work on her return. This will be her 7th solo album. Producer David Foster is producing the project, which is due out later this year.

VH-1 is bringing back their Divas Live project. The new special will air in September. Past honorees include Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston and Cher. I wonder who they honor this year.

At the movies this week, it’s Obsessed with Beyonce and Idris Elba. Check out Beyonce on the new issue of Vogue magazine as well as the latest edition of Ebony. Plus, the Philadelphia leg of Beyonce’s summer tour stops at the Wachovia Center on June 26th.

The X-Men series continues as Wolverine, with Hugh Jackman, opens in theatres May 1st.

Bill Cosby has yet another big honor coming up this fall. He’s getting The Mark Twain Prize For American Humor. Previous winners of this award include George Carlin, Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Crystal and Steve Martin.

For a record fourth time, Samuel L. Jackson will be hosting the ESPY Awards. Sports biggest night is set for July 19th on ESPN.
Get ready for the movie version of the stage classic, For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf. The 70’s classic by Author Ntozake Shange was originally a book telling the stories of women of color through a series of poems, and now it’s coming to the big screen.
Jada Pinkett Smith’s new TV drama about nurses, Hawthorne, debuts in June on the TNT network.

The Norman Lear Collection, a boxed DVD set, is coming out on June 9th. Norman Lear is the famed producer behind the TV classics The Jeffersons, Good Times, All In The Family, Maude and Sanford & Son to name a few. The first seasons of those and other Lear classics will be included in the set.

The 2010 Grammy Awards are set for January 31st.

Denzel Washington’s new movie, with John Travolta and James Gandolfini, The Taking Of Pelham 1, 2, 3 hits theatres on June 12th. We have the exclusive trailer on our website at wdasfm.com. Just go to Patty’s Page and check it out. Let me know what you think. I can’t wait to see it. It’s a remake of the 70’s action thriller with Walter Matthau about a trio of bad guys who take a New York subway care hostage.

Ruben Studdard’s new album is produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and hits stores May 19th.

Producer Lee Daniels has changed the name of his upcoming release. The long awaited project Push will be renamed Precious. The movie is scheduled to be released later this year and stars Mo’Nique, Lenny Kravitz, Mariah Carey and new comer Gabourey “Gabby” Sidibe as “Precious.” Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey have joined forces to help Lee with the promotion of this movie. The film Precious is based on the book Push by Sapphire, and focuses on the plight of a 16-year old who suffered years of abuse but overcomes her odds with the help of others.

The Bynum Brothers are back with a new venture. They own Warmdaddy’s on Columbus Boulevard and had the old Zanzibar Blue in Center City. Their latest project is called RELISH at 7152 Ogontz Avenue. It replaces Sadiki’s. RELISH features live jazz music Thursday through Sunday. For more info go to relishphiladelphia.com or call 215-276-0170.

The Wendy Williams talk show is set to debut this July. The show is going nationwide, and will be seen locally on FOX 29.

The 15th Annual Essence Music Festival is set for July 3rd, 4th and 5th in New Orleans. Beyonce, John Legend, Eric Benet, Robin Thicke, Anita Baker, Bill Cosby and Maxwell are all on the bill. There will also be seminars featuring Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Roland Martin. Plus, there’ll be an all-star tribute to Bishop T.D. Jakes.

WHAT’S THE UNDERGROUND BUZZ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Some couples crave publicity and attention and will do anything to get it. A certain celebrity couple is wearing people out. No matter what they do or what lies they tell the media, they are deemed too boring to care about. Most people wish this couple would sit down and go away.

Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson joined Ellen for an unbelievable bathroom performance!

Family of boxer fights for pardon of 1913 racist conviction

By Alan Silverleib
CNN

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- To this day, Linda Haywood recalls the shame she once felt for her great-uncle.

Jack Johnson was convicted of transporting a white woman across state lines for "immoral purposes."

"I could see from the expression on my mother's face that it pained her to tell me about him," she recalled, "but it wasn't just her. The shame was there for all the members of my family."

Haywood's great-uncle, Jack Johnson, shocked the nation in 1908 by becoming the first African-American world heavyweight champion. Yet the boxer was arrested not long afterward for taking a white woman across state lines for "immoral" purposes.

That case fell apart and the woman later became his wife, but then investigators charged him with a similar offense involving a woman he had dated years earlier. An all-white jury's decision to convict him in that case has come to be widely viewed as a symbol of racial injustice.

Now Haywood is working with Sen. John McCain and others to try to clear her great-uncle's name. McCain wants the Senate to pass a resolution urging President Obama to grant Johnson a presidential pardon.

It would represent a final vindication for Haywood, a 53-year-old seamstress in Chicago who now views her great-uncle with pride.

Her parents didn't tell her until she was 12 that she was related to Johnson, even though she saw his photo at school during lessons on black history.

"I remember seeing his picture on the wall of my sixth-grade classroom in Chicago in 1966," Haywood said in a voice tinged with sadness. "It was up there next to pictures of Sojourner Truth and George Washington Carver as part of a black history week my teacher put together. I didn't have the first clue who the man was. My parents didn't want me to know."

Her parents, she said, were trying to protect her from a legacy of racial injustice at a time when the country had yet to emerge from the long shadow of segregation.

Haywood was stunned when she learned her great-uncle's story.

Less than five years after winning the heavyweight title, Johnson was convicted for violating the Mann Act, which outlawed the transportation of women across state lines for "immoral" purposes.

Johnson was black and the woman was white -- enough to get even a champion imprisoned in early 20th century America. Justice Department lawyers decried it as a "crime against nature" for him to have a sexual relationship with a white woman.

Judge Kennesaw Mountain Landis, later to become the first commissioner of Major League Baseball, set Johnson's bail at $30,000 -- the equivalent of more than $660,000 today. When a bail bondsman showed up, Landis jailed him, too, according to an account that filmmaker Ken Burns relays in his documentary, "Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson."

An all-white jury convicted Johnson in less than two hours.

"Mr. Johnson was perhaps persecuted as an individual, but ... it was his misfortune to be the foremost example of the evil in permitting the intermarriage of whites and blacks," one of the prosecutors later said.

Johnson's real crime, in the eyes of many, was committed three years earlier, when he successfully defended his boxing title against Jim Jeffries, a white boxer who came to be called the "Great White Hope" because many white fans saw him as the best chance to wrest back a boxing title from the African-American champ.

Jeffries, a former heavyweight champion, had come out of retirement intending to reclaim a title that many Americans believed Johnson had no right to in the first place.

Johnson beat Jeffries on July 4, 1910, before a stunned, almost entirely white crowd in Reno, Nevada.

Race riots followed.

More than 20 people were killed and hundreds were injured. Most victims were black.

So when they "couldn't beat him in the ring, the white power establishment decided to beat him in the courts," Burns said in his documentary.

Johnson fled to Europe in 1913 while free on appeal. But after years of fights overseas -- including the eventual loss of his title in Havana, Cuba, in 1915 -- Johnson came home. He turned himself over to U.S. authorities at the Mexican border in 1920 and served ten months in prison.

He died in a car wreck in 1946.

"Back then, if you were black and you were told that you did something wrong, you really had no recourse," said Haywood.

"You just accepted what was done because black people were basically powerless and voiceless. Jack may have been a rich boxer, but he couldn't fight the system."

Today, in a very different America, Haywood's family is seeking justice.

They've teamed up with Burns, McCain and Rep. Peter King, a New York Republican, to urge the nation's first African-American president to grant Johnson a rare posthumous pardon.

McCain and King introduced resolutions calling for a presidential pardon in 2005 and last year. The House passed it, but the Senate did not.

The White House declined to comment when asked Obama's views on a possible pardon for Johnson.

McCain, who says he made a mistake by once voting against a federal holiday for the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., sees the pardon as a way to right an old wrong.

"The Jack Johnson case is an ignominious stain on our nation's history," he said on the Senate floor this month, while introducing a new version of the resolution.

"Rectifying this injustice is long overdue. [The resolution recognizes] the unjustness of what transpired, and sheds light on the achievements of an athlete who was forced into the shadows of bigotry and prejudice. Johnson ... deserved much better than a racially motivated conviction."

King, himself a former boxer, said in a written statement that Johnson was a trailblazer who became "a victim of the times."

For Haywood, the proposed pardon is also personal. It's about wiping the slate clean for future generations of her family.

"My mother used to say Jack was defiant," she remembered. "No disrespect, momma, but he was being his own man. And I'm so proud of him. To think -- of all the families in the world, God gave him to us."

Haywood has made sure her four children know the story of the country's first black heavyweight champion.

"They love him," she said. "Especially my oldest son. He was a bit of a pugilist in high school. He got into his fair share of scraps. I think we know where he got that trait."

Haywood says she'll go to Washington if Obama issues a pardon. With a bit of laughter, she promises to give a gracious, eloquent speech thanking him.

With or without a pardon, she emphasizes, the stigma and the shame are gone.

Today, Johnson's family feels only pride.