It's a new day; this is a new chapter for GBMNews.com as we are marching straight into the future with new ideas and a different point of view. If nothing else, "Chit Chat" will be informative, enlightening, humorous, up to the minute with celebrity news, gossip and will be truthful without being crude.
Each month I would like to share words of empowerment, encouragement, faith, and most of all unconditional love. Once upon a time, we dared not to dream of a President, who's black but that dream came true and now we have President Obama.
Now can we dream bigger dreams for ourselves, our loved ones and for others in our communities. We can reach for the stars and claim the one that's ours. We can learn to be good to each other instead backbiting and killing one another. Jealousy and envy we need to removed from our languages. We need to be each other's support and strength.
I look in the mirror and say to myself, that I'm proud to be born black, male, gay, a child of the God, and I am not an error because of my sexuality. However, because of who I am, I can add to the flavor of this thing called life.
Lets inspire each other to be the best of who we can be.
John Frazier Entertainment Correspondent & Editor, Chit Chat Magazine
By John Frazier Sr. Entertainment Correspondent & Chief Editor
The American Music Awards for 2009 was magical. Starting from Ms. Janet Jackson opening and giving a mini concert. What I found interesting was how the other artists are connected to the dance diva. Paula Abdul was on hand and responsible for the Ms. Jackson's dance moves during her "Control" days of which has become Janet's signature style.
Jennifer Lopez was also present and one of Ms. Jackson's featured dancers in her video, "That's How Love Goes". On Ms. Abdul's musical connection are Ryan Seacrest,Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, (Chris) Daughtry, Adam Lambert, who came in second for 2009 American Idol, but has outshined the winner, Kris Allen, ouch!
Adam even performed a song from his debut CD, that was so sexual and nasty that his Good Morning America appearance for that following morning was cancelled as the network feared he would be a bit much for the early morning coffee drinking viewers, and Adam's been deleted from the Dick Clark's New Year's Eve Celebration.
As for, the American Idol winner, Kris Alan didn't get the same courtesy to perform on AMA and he's so likeable.
Hopefully he finds that same kind of success that Adam will definitely receive.
Ms. Whitney Houston proved that she's back!!! She sounded great, looked great, now can she perform a complete concert?
When she appeared that following Tuesday, on "Dancing With the Stars", she performed 2 songs, which were lukewarm, as vocally she didn't sound as wonderful as she looked.
By the way, daughter, Bobbie Christina is growing up to be a real beauty.
And finally, should we thank Kanye West for all the awards that Taylor Swift has received from the music industry thus far?
Looks like Kanye's rudeness has paid off for Taylor in a huge way. I have a feeling that things may have turned out differently if he had kept his big fat mouth closed.
Did you see Perez Hilton singing his little heart out to Alicia Keys and Jay Z's, "New York?"
Angie Stone has just released her new product, titled, "Unexpected". If you're an Angie Stone fan, you will love this CD, however, even though I love Angie, it appears that no matter the record label, the sound is the same. There's nothing unexpected on "Unexpected".
Perhaps it's time to find a new producer. This sister has a beautiful, raw, urban voice but it can't be appreciated if the material is the same as her prior CD's.
The Neo-soul diva's new record label is STAX records. This label is famous for having a great roster of talent, such as legends, Carla Thomas, Rufus Thomas, The Staple Singers, Isaac Haynes, The Emotions, and many others. For the Angie Stone fans, pick up a few copies of "Unexpected" and place them under the Christmas tree, your loved ones will be happy that you did.
Latin songstress, Shakira, what can I say? "She Wolf", the title of the CD and the first single release is being played all over the place.
Again, if you're a Shakira fan, you are probably as happy as a child on Christmas morning, but for me, the CD is full of studio production, working hard on the crossover appeal.
Vocally, Shakira's voice isn't for everyone. After a few cuts, you might want to pulse it, wait for a second before you continue to the next cut. She's beautiful to look at, her body movements are sexy as hell, and in fact, she's a wonderful humble personality.
She's not the first singer who doesn't have the greatest voice, (did someone say Madonna?) but no matter what, she's proven herself and she's here to stay.
I received an early copy of Lady Gaga's, new CD, " The Fame Monster". At the time of this printing I'm sure it will have been released already just in time for the Christmas holiday.
The buzz has been about the Lady Gaga & Beyonce partnering on song, " Telephone". On Beyonce's song, "Video Phone" from "I Am Sasha Fierce", Lady Gaga is featured (a remix, not on the original).
Neither song made the earth move for me, but I'm sure the two gay icons will enjoy much success, especially after the video and re-mixes are set to play. As for the CD, it's a continuation of "The Fame" CD.
I'm not sure if it's a good or bad thing, but if it's not broke, don't fix it right?
Lady Gaga fans will know her song, "Starstruck" her duet with the group, "Space Cowboy", featuring Flo Rida. Space Cowboy's are driving the club kids crazy, click here & see why:
A wonderful surprise found its way onto my desk, the title of the CD is "Beauty Killer" and the artist is Jeffree Star. A few of the cuts are: "Get Away With Murder", "Prisoner", "Fame & Riches, Rehab Bitches", "Fresh Meat", at first glance you imagine total gay camp songs.
This is not the case, even though the lyrics are fun and perhaps campy, Mr. Star is indeed, very talented and he can really sing. The music is good, his vocals are as well. Don't let his image of a drag queen on the cover, turn you off.
Open your mind, experience the experience. It will be interesting to follow his career. If you're in the mood for some good club music, check out his "my space" website: www.myspace.com/jeffreestar and watch out Adam Lambert!
I had the pleasure of interviewing recording artist, Nhojj who's the 2009 Outmusic Nominee R&B/Soul Song.
The video for this sensual song was directed by Kirk Shannon-Butts, who directed and wrote short film, "Blueprint".
I had the pleasure of interviewing Kirk as well for GBMNews. Congratulations to them both.
"Sister Sledge" sisters who are famous for disco hits, "We Are Family" and "He's the Greatest Dancer" among other great songs are working on a reality show. The sisters now have daughters of their own who are continuing the family music legacy.
This should be interesting, since Kathy Sledge, the lead singer, was the powerhouse standing out front of the sister group. Unfortunately, she wasn't as successful with her solo efforts, however her music can be heard on many "house" CD's. Will there be a "Sister Sledge" reunion? Do we want one?
Chris Brown and Rihanna both have released new CD's just in time for the holidays. Rihanna's will definitely go triple platinum, whereas Chris Brown's may go straight to the dollar bin. But who knows, the entertainment world has rules of its own.
If R. Kelly, and he's just released a new CD, can still be successful after the sexual videos of him having sex with underage girls, Mr. Brown has a chance. Plus I have a feeling that Chris and Rihanna may find themselves back together again.
Many of you may have seen Chris on 20/20, finally he's showing remorse, guilt, regret and sorrow. His following the advice of others in regard to the Chris/Rihanna drama made him look foolish and uncaring on cable's Larry King show. Now he's manning up and doing it his own way. After the interview on 20/20 I couldn't help but wish him a continued successful recovery with his fruitful career.
Now superstar golfer, Tiger Woods is following the advice of his public relations people, time will tell if it was the best, and it appears that the media is out for blood. It's been published that he's had 10 and counting, affairs outside of his 5 year old marriage and for 15 minutes of fame, the women are telling it all.
I'm not a golf fan and not a Tiger fan, especially since it appeared that he wanted to separate himself from being called black or Afro American, however, I can't help but feel sorry for him. This is a matter that should be between Mr. and Mrs. Woods. It's like the media is saying, "See he's not perfect!" He never said he was.
Many may wonder where's the Black community? Eldrick Tont Woods aka Tiger Woods slammed the door in the face of the black/brown community by claiming to be not black but "Cablinasian", which he said when he appeared on the Oprah Show. Everyone present thought it was cute. I didn't and many people of color were not amused either. Stay tuned, every day we find out more, not that we are asking, but the media has taken joy in watching this brother of color fall from grace.
Britain's Got Talent sensation, Susan Boyle has out sold Rihanna in its first week's CD release. This just shows that sometimes its talent that the public hungers for and not studio tricks and music industry brainwash. Good for you, Ms. Boyle.
Usher, Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry and many other entertainers feel that we want to smell like them, so colognes and perfumes are created and marketed for the public's pleasure. NOT! I don't think so! Now Dame Elizabeth Taylor, she's a different story with her "Diamonds" collection.
Ron Artest, the L.A. Lakers, star, has earned enough money to open his own recording company, to launch his new single, "Blind" and on top of that, the music he used in no other than the Oscar Award and Grammy winning actress and singer, Ms. Jennifer Hudson's, song, "Spotlight".
Now I'm not a rap fan, so I can't really appreciate if this song is good or not. However, in the past other basketball pro's like Shaq have tried to rap and failed. Money can't buy everything.
Recording artist and beauty, Mya was the front runner on "Dancing With The Stars", and lost to Donny Osmond, who was crowned the winner. Now people, please!! I watched every show. There's no way that Donny is a better dancer than Mya. But there are more Osmond's in the world, 19.2 million people watched, mostly Osmond's, I'm sure. But no big deal, as it's gotten Ms. Mya back out there. Now hopefully she's in the studio, ready to release some overdue good R&B music.
"George Michael Live In London", released on December 8th- having it's theatrical screening throughout North American and you will be able to purchase it at your local retail store. I just received my copy and it's wonderful!!! For more details visit: George Michael
What's up with Bow Wow? It's seems that his fan base is still the teenie boppers. Even though he's 22, going on 23, the underage are still feeling him. He's cursing, talking about doggie out girls, the record sells aren't happening. Sounds like it's time to reinvent. I have to thank my niece for that bit of information, thank you Lyrenda!
Bobby Brown. Whitney Houston's ex hubby and Brittney Spear's ex-hubby, Kevin Federline are teaming up for a reality show. Now I ask, why would we be interested in the ex-husbands of two superstar entertainers?
Wasn't it a few months ago, Bobby was said to be working on a country-western CD? Child, please, give it up Bobby. Go back into the studio, get the best vocal coach and producers, go to the gym, work out, lose some of that weight and make that major comeback that you hunger for. As for Kevin, it appeared that he was doing a great job raising the children that he and Brittney share.
Mega Super Genius Producer, Timbarland, releases a follow up to 2007 CD which features guest, new comer, Keri Hilson, Chris Daughtry, Brandy, Miley Cyrus, Justin Timberlake, Katy Perry, among others. It's a total mix bag of talent. The beat and lyrics are cool but I'm not crazy about Mr. Timberland's singing ability. But judge for yourself.
Singer, writer Kelis has a new club single, "Acapella", which the club kids are going to love. It has great dance beats and lyrics are great as well. Kelis can sing. The former Mrs. Nas is ready to show the world that she can make her own money and keep his.
Jennifer Lopez aka J-Lo has another personality named "Lola", who has a new single out, "Fresh Out the Oven" and the remix is off the hook.
The single has 6 remixes done by Space Cowboy (2, 5, 6,) Karmatronic (1 & 4) and cut # 3 by HQ2. The 7th cut is the album version which is my personal favorite but overall the J-Lo fans will be pleased.
Jennifer Lopez was also present and one of Ms. Jackson's featured dancers in her video, "That's How Love Goes". On Ms. Abdul's musical connections are Ryan Seacrest, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, (Chris) Daughtry, Adam Lambert, who came in second for 2009 American Idol, but has outshined the winner, Kris Allen, ouch!
Jay-Z turned 40, just in case you thought it was important.
By Correspondent's. Girl Gone Blue and Omar aka "Dear Omar"
The staff for "Chit Chat" felt that I should be interviewed in celebration of my first novel, "It Seems To Hang On". At first I thought it was a bad idea, but after thinking it over, I thought, "what not?" The questions were bold, raw, honest and thought provoking. It was interesting to be on the other side of the table.
INTERVIEW
Girl Gone Blue : Wow, I can't believe I'm interviewing you, because of you I'm a part of "Chit Chit" and "GBMNews". Interviewing you, gives me a chance to learn more about you. How did you become a part of" GBMNews "and "Chit Chat?"
John: I spend my time between NYC and Charlotte, NC . I wasn't sure of the direction of my life, a lot had happened within the last few years. Ralph, the publisher and owner of GBMNews hit me up on "my space", only to let me know about GBMNews.
I visited the website, liked what it was all about. After a few months, I decided to telephone Ralph, thinking that I might be able to submit some of my poetry to GBMNews. While speaking to Ralph, we clicked, he mentioned that it was hard to find someone to cover "entertainment". I said that I would be interested, it took off from there.
Girl Gone Blue: What has been the reward of writing for and being associated with GBMNews?
John: Being able to watch it grow. I believe we have almost 1 million viewers per month. We are available not only, on line, in the United States but all over the world.
Even though, it's directed to the Gay black male audience, our fan base has reached all kinds of people from all walks of life. Our writers are not only black, but white, Latin, Asian, gay, straight, young, and not so young. (laughing)
Personally. I love the reaction that the readers have to my articles, good or bad. And trust me, they will let you know. If there's a reaction, then I've been successful. Ralph Emerson, our publisher and owner, has a brilliant mind, it's a honor to be a part of his vision.
Omar: Are you currently in a relationship?
John: Yes, I am.
Omar: What does he think about your writing?
John: He's not as supportive as I'd like, but I'm sure he wants success for me.
Girl Gone Blue: I understand that you're also an author, you've written poetry and have a new novel, can you tell us about your work?
John: I've written four books of poetry. As you may know, poetry doesn't really sale that well. Even recording artist like Alicia Keys, Jill Scott, both have written books of poetry but either was on the best sellers list in the NY Times. I recall. Writing poetry is a labor of love, really.
My poetry reflects everyday life, no matter if you're straight or gay, we all experience, go through a lot of the same situations in life. My novel, "It Seems To Hang On", is a love story between two Black American men, during the late 70's to the 90's. If you've experienced love then you will enjoy this unique love story.
Omar: You describe your latest book as a love story, how do you feel about gay marriage?
John: I'm for gay marriage. I've been in love a few times, if it were possible during those relationships, to have gotten married, I would have. I would probably be like Elizabeth Taylor, I would have about 7 - 8 ex husbands by now.
Girl Gone Blue: How old were you when you realized that you were gay?
John: I knew at the age of five, really. I didn't have a label or name for it. I didn't want to be known as a faggot. Growing up in the projects, you are exposed to a lot early in life. Faggots were guys, in my 5 year old mind, who wanted to be girls, who couldn't fight, who played jump robe with the girls. I didn't want to be a girl, didn't play jump-robe, and I could kick some ass if backed into a corner.
I had a choice to either fight or to go home and get a spanking, I choose to fight. After a while, word got around that I might be a faggot, but I could fight. None of the neighborhood straight guys wanted to get beat up by a faggot, so I didn't have to worry about getting into many fights.
Omar: What started you to writing and where do you get your inspiration?
John: Being a sensitive child, it was a way of expressing myself. As for my inspiration it comes in all forms, could be whatever I'm feeling or a conversation with a close friend or family member.
Omar: What do your friends think of your writing?
John: For the most part they're excited for me. Even though, I don't think any of them have read my novel yet.
Omar: What advice would you give an up and coming young gay man who would like to become a writer?
John: Stay true to yourself. You can only write about what you know. And if you are not encouraged by family/friends, press on anyway.
Girl Gone Blue: Do you have any siblings?
John: Yes, I'm the oldest, I have a brother who's 3 years younger than I, and then I have a sister 16 years younger.
Girl Gone Blue: Wow 16 years?
John: Yes, my mother had me at 16 and my sister at 32. So I'm like a father to my sister as well has her big brother. My brother also respects me as his big brother, even though I'm only 3 years older.
Omar: What was it like growing up gay in Queens?
John: When we moved from Spanish Harlem, I tried to put my sexual attraction to men on the back burner. I was 14 years old, when we moved to Queens. I thought I would be able to denied my true else and live life as a straight male. But as I approached adulthood, I knew that I could only be happy being myself.
Girl Gone Blue: Living and being gay all of your life, would you want to have a sibling who is gay?
John: Good question………… I, how do I say this? The gay life can be a hard life, and being a person of color that can be double hard. Things are changing but not fast enough, I would love my sibling for whoever he/she is, but if I had a choice in the sexuality, I would have to say that it's easier being straight.
Omar: What misconceived notion would you like to clear up about the gay community to straight American?
John: In the gay community we have the same issues as our straight counterpoints. We want to get married, we want to have children, and we want the same things, we want equal rights. We are more than sex and party's.
Omar: Great answer, by the way! Do you see yourself as an advocate?
John: No, not really but I do feel that I should be the best person that I can be. If I screw up it's a reflection on the gay and black community, also to my family. So I work on being a positive force, but I'm not perfect and wouldn't want to be.
Girl Gone Blue: On your wish list, if you could predict your future for the next 5 years, what would you like to happen?
John: I would love for my novel, to become a best seller. I would also love for it to be made into a movie. If I were to receive some financial success, I would love to have a place in NYC, in Charlotte, NC, in South Beach, Florida. And of course, I would like to catch up on my bills, help out my loved ones and donate time and money to different causes such as HIV/Aids, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer's.
Girl Gone Blue: When you listen to music, who do you listen to?
John: That's a loaded question, it depends on the mood. My old time favorites are Diana Ross, Dionne Warwick, Dee Dee Sharp, The Pointer Sisters, Barbra Streisand, Bette Milder, Patti Labelle, Gladys Knight,….Tramaine Hawkins, Thelma Houston, Freda Payne, all of the Supremes after Diana left, who sang with Mary Wilson. I can go from R&B to gospel, to easy listening to opera. I'm not big on country western.
Girl Gone Blue: Do you sleep in the nude?
John: (Laughing) I knew one day someone would ask me that question. Yes, I sleep in the nude. I'm nude most of the time, really, when I'm at home, unless I had guest/company over then I wear clothes. I'm a nudist really. Love being butt naked!
Girl Gone Blue: What would your friends and family be surprised to know or learn about you?
John: I'm really shy. I'm afraid of getting up in front of people. Afraid of reading anything aloud in front of people. Also extremely sensitive, so I've built a shell around myself to protect myself,
this is sometimes confused with being hard or as someone said to me, I'm very New York City. (laugh)
Girl Gone Blue: Can you cook?
John: Yes, I'm a pretty good cook. I use to cook Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners when my grandmother was alive. She passed away a few years ago, after I haven't really cooked like that.
Girl Gone Blue: "Chit Chat" is still very new, it has published a few issues, what makes "Chit Chat" different than the other publications out there?
John: The focus is on the person being interviewed. We are remembering former artist that the American public may have forgotten. Many times people will ask, "Whatever happened to?" Hopefully we will reintroduce that celebrity to the public. We will also focus on up and coming new artist. There's a "Dear Omar", which is really a "Dear Abby" but from a gay, male point of view. Also Mae Kwan is responsible for our Food and Restaurant section. Alan Mercer, who has photographed many celebrities is now interviewing as well, he's a bonus to us. And then there's the brilliant Robert Jones, love his work. It's exciting. We are always interested in new writers, so anyone interested, send me an e-mail.
Omar: What's the first thing you would do, when your book becomes a bestseller?
John: Do you mean financially?
Omar: Yeah, the first thing you would want to purchase for yourself?
John: Depending on the amount, I would probably buy a ranch home.
Girl Gone Blue: How would someone get in touch with you?
John By my direct e-mail or Myspace and I'm also on facebook.
Girl Gone Blue: Well thank you for giving me the opportunity to interview you.
By John Frazier Sr. Entertainment Correspondent Chief Editor
When our paths crossed, Dr. Ernesto Valdes, PhD and I, it was when I saw the Supremes Reunion Petition on “My Space”. I wrote a short article for GBMNews, followed by my first interview with this true gentleman and fan. The petition started in April 2008. Dr, Valdes has given this project blood, sweat and tears. He’s been hard at work getting the signatures, he’s spoken with Ms. Mary Wilson, to get her feedback, he’s spoken and been in contact with billions of fans. And yes, it’s something that we all want.
We are now in 2010 and Dr. Valdes is still hard at work, in making this happen. I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Ernesto Valdes . I was amazed that with his extremely busy schedule, he has found the time to push forward in making this happen, in finally making the reunion of all reunions come true. Just imagine, Diana Ross, Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong, "the Supremes" in concert. Are we closer in seeing this become a reality?
INTERVIEW
John: Dr. Valdes, thank you so much for chit chatting with us again. As I recall, after your first interview, the signatures received on the petition for the Supremes reunion increased. Can you tell us a little about that?
Dr. Valdes: Yes, we are close to 4,300 signatures, and I have the faith that those signatures will continue to increase. I have made several attempts to contact various newspapers, blogs, magazines, and the general media, but I have received no response.
I truly think that many think that since this dream is far-fetched, and it will never become a reality. If we were to have a vast exposure for the petition, we would have over 10, 000 signatures.
This is why I am so grateful to you and your wonderful site for giving us the opportunity to publicize this endeavor.
John: Do you think that they will be a reunion of the 1970's Supremes? The Supremes in question are Jean Terrill who replaced Diana Ross, then later Lynda Lawrence who replace Cindy Birdsong, and ending with Mary Wilson, Scherrie Payne and Susaye Greene.
Dr. Valdes: I believe that Mary Wilson has clearly stated that if there is to be a reunion, it will only include Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Cindy Birdsong.
John: You've been working on the Supremes reunion for a few years now; do you feel that the reunion will really happen?
Dr. Valdes: I still have faith that it will. Dreams do come true, as Mary has often said. We, the fans, cannot give up. Now, the ladies must also make up their minds, as they are not getting any younger.
John: Mary Wilson released a CD called, "Up-Close", which she did mostly jazz music, have you heard this CD and if so, what's your favorite song?
Dr. Valdes: Yes, I have heard the CD, and I really like it. There are several songs that I really enjoy. These include "Smile" "Here's to Life" and "Spring Is Here". As a matter of fact, I like all of them!
John: On" Entertainment Tonight", the reporter asked Ms. Ross if it were still possible to have a Supremes reunion, at that time she said that she tried to make it happen, and basically it was not going to happen. Do you feel like she's softened her opinion?
Dr. Valdes: People change. Diana Ross knows how much the fans yearn to see the Supremes again, even just one more time. People have change of hearts. I don't see why Diana would be different.
John: During Mary's concert's she's made comments like, "I'm ready when Diane is ready". Has Mary's comments reached back to Ms. Ross?
Dr. Valdes: I am sure Mary's comments have reached Diana. The ball is now in Diana's court.
John: The movie "Dreamgirls" painted the Diana Ross character in a more likeable light than the Broadway play. In your opinion, which is closer to the truth in regard to the Supremes story?
Dr. Valdes: In the movie, there were many aspects which were similar to the real Supremes story. Diana Ross is a likeable person. I believe that she just had to "go with the flow". However, this is the moment for all three ladies to put away their differences and give the fans what they want.
John: With your busy schedule, how do you find the time to continue this petition? Do you have someone to assist you?
Dr. Valdes: I will always find the time to pursue a dream. This is not only my dream but the dream of so many fans. Therefore, I will continue with my quest. Other fans have helped me by collecting signatures and by placing the petition link on different sites.
John: When I think of the Supremes reunion, even for one night, the money that could be made would be in the millions.
And if cable channels became involved, this would be bigger than the Beatles reunion, Fleetwood Mac and other groups that have made this happen. It appears that Diana may be the one that's not on board. In your opinion, what do you think would change the diva's mind?
Dr. Valdes: I can't speak for Diana; however, at this time, the reunion should not be centered on the money. There are more important things in life, such as giving back to the fans-the very same people who put the Supremes at the top deserve a real reunion.
John: Scherrie Payne, Lynda Lawrence, Freddi Poole and now that Ms. Poole is no longer with the group, FLOS (former ladies of the Supremes), Joyce Vincent, formerly of Tony Orlando & Dawn, has joined the former ladies. Do you feel that the Supreme fans have embraced FLOS?
Dr. Valdes: Yes, many Supreme fans have embraced the FLOS, but a "former member" is not enough. I give credit to all the ladies for keeping the dream alive, but the "main" dream should involve Diana, Mary and Cindy.
John: When Ms. Ross had her "Back to Love" tour, and Scherrie Payne & Lynda Lawrence joined her, many of the hardcore fans were not happy with this arrangement. It was rumored that many fans blamed Ms. Ross who said that she decided to stay from the money matters.
The end result was that this tour was not successful and was cancelled. Many loyal fans felt that they had been robbed from a lifetime dream, to see Cindy Birdsong, Diana Ross and Mary Wilson on stage one more time. If in the near future, if Diana agreed to a reunion special, a one night only performance, where do you feel this event should take place?
Dr. Valdes: At this point, my answer would be any venue. I am sure that the fans will be satisfied with the venue the ladies select. The main thing is for this reunion to take place.
John: We've seen the movie, "Dreamgirls" and we've seen the Broadway play, "Dreamgirls", if the Supremes story were made into a movie, which three actresses would you like to see play Diana, Mary, Florence and Cindy?
Dr. Valdes: I haven't given this much thought; however, since Jennifer Hudson was so magnificent playing what appeared to be Florence Ballard's part, I would select Ms. Hudson to play Flo.
John: I've received notes from Mary throughout the years; one for a CD order that was misplaced, Mary sent a note of apology.
Another time I wrote a note stating that she should do a jazz CD, of which I was totally surprised when it came to be. Since you've been involved in this reunion project, have you spoken to her or received any kind of acknowledgement from the Supreme lady?
Dr. Valdes: I keep in touch with Mary Wilson frequently. As a matter of fact, I will be going to Palm Beach, Florida in December to see her in her Up-Close show for the New Year. Ms. Wilson is fully aware of the petition and our efforts.
John: I know that this question can change from time to time, so I will ask you again, what's your favorite Supreme song?
Dr. Valdes: I really like them all, but if I had to pick one, it would have to be "You Can't Hurry Love".
John: This is my last question, why is this reunion of the Supremes important to you?
Dr. Valdes: The reunion is important not only to me but to so many fans. In my case, the Supremes mean so much. I have been a fan since I was 12 years old. I have grown with the Supremes.
I have smiled with the Supremes. I have cried with the Supremes. If I were to write the story of my life, an entire chapter would be written about the ladies and how they have influenced my life.
It's always a pleasure chatting with my friend Dr. Valdes. We will continue follow this story and hopefully "someday we'll see the Supremes singing together", at the reunion concert.
If you wish you add your name to the petition, click here: Supremes Reunion
By Alan Mercer GBMNews Correspondent & Photographer
Assisted By Rudy Calvo
Thelma Houston scored a number one hit in 1977 with her cover version of the song "Don't Leave Me This Way", which won the 1978 Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
Houston was born the daughter of a cotton picking mother. She and her three sisters grew up primarily in Long Beach, California.
After marrying and having two children, she joined the Art Reynolds Singers gospel group and was subsequently signed as a recording artist with Dunhill Records.
In 1969, she released her debut album, entitled Sunshower, produced by Jimmy Webb. In 1971, she signed with Motown Records but didn't get a hit until she released her third album Any Way You Like It in 1976.
The first single released was her version of Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes' 1975 song "Don't Leave Me This Way". In February 1977 it hit number one in the U.S. on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts.
On August 14, 2007, Thelma Houston released her first studio album in seventeen years, A Woman's Touch.
The album features cover versions of songs by male artists such as Luther Vandross, Marvin Gaye, and Sting that Houston had been inspired by.The first single from the album was "Brand New Day." On August 20, 2007, Houston's 1984 album Qualifying Heat was reissued as an import title in the U.S. with a bonus track.
I have always loved Thelma Houston's music. The excitement and energy she brings to anything she does is undeniable. Her voice is as strong and clear today as it was thirty years ago.
She has spent a good part of her career "working well" with others. Her collaborations with other artists like Jerry Butler, Scott Henderson, Jermaine Jackson and others are well known in the industry.
I met Thelma through my friend Rudy Calvo who is not only an experienced make-up artist, but an expert in Soul Music. Rudy will be featured on Chit Chat in the very near future.
He has known Thelma for years and put us together for our first photo shoot eight years ago. These photos are from our third photo session. Rudy, Thelma and I got together to discuss her career so far!
INTERVIEW
Alan: Hello Thelma, before we talk about anything else I want to tell you that I just discovered the four tracks you did with Scott Henderson! I love them.
Thelma: Oh yeah, he's the blues guy. That was done in 1997. I have to think about things in terms of where I was living. I was doing a project with Carole King's band. One of the guys in the band gave Scott my phone number. When I heard his music I really liked the way he played.
He sent me these funny lyrics about the meter maid and a song called 'I Hate You' and it was so different than anything I had ever done. I ended up working on two projects with him. That's what I love doing, and at the same time, it's a big headache to a record company. I always thought that's what it should be. I like doing all kinds of things.
Rudy: You are producing art, and a lot of the art is missing from today's music. Last night I watched VH1 Divas and I wondered what happened? I did think Leona Lewis can sing but all her recordings sound like Britney Spears.
Alan: That reminds me that Thelma is always on television. You get more TV time than any of your peers now. What do you think that's all about?
Thelma: Well I think it's a good thing! (lol) These things just kind of happen. I think it's the popularity of the song. 'Don't Leave Me This Way' was and still is a favorite. When they want to get the audience up and moving they like the song and I come along with the song!
Rudy: I think it's more than that. It is a great song but you are a great talent. Lots of people have done dance songs and can't hold a candle to you. You are what a real singer is all about.
That's at least part of the reason you are still doing what you do, because you are so great. I see people that have great songs all the time but they can't back it up.
Alan: I have to agree with that.
Rudy: It's also the energy you give out.
Thelma: Well thank you. It is a natural reaction because I am so happy to be doing it. I really genuinely love doing this. I'm happy for every opportunity to do it.
Rudy: You have always been consistent with your career. You have always worked. You are always a part of a project like 'Sisters of Glory' and 'Pressure Cooking.' Last night I heard your version of 'Comfortably Numb' and it knocked me out.
I believe that is one of the best songs you have ever recorded. It is so strong and powerful. I like a lot of your work but I think that is a masterpiece.
Thelma: Thank you Rudy. It's a project I did with all these songs from Britain. It was done with the symphony orchestra. I did some tours with them as well.
Alan: Do you think it makes a difference to record LIVE in the studio?
Thelma: I love it LIVE.
Alan: Do you think it makes a better end result?
Thelma: For me it does because I do so much better. I love the element of performing so when I record LIVE I am more natural. When I first started recording with the Art Reynolds Singers that's the way we used to so it.
We would cut the songs LIVE with the band. That is also the way Jimmy Webb asked me to record 'Sunshower.' He loved to be there and have me record LIVE. That's the only way that I knew, but when I got to Motown they would already have these tracks recorded in your key but you wouldn't be there to have an input into the creation of the song.
I quickly learned who was booking the tracking dates and I would become their good friend so they would let me know when the recordings were being done and I could show up and have a say in them. I LOVE to be able to record LIVE!
Rudy: So when you were with Motown was it more of an assembly line?
Thelma: At Motown if someone was a writer or producer and they had an idea, they would run it past the creative people and decide if it was a good track and then they would decide what artist would record it.
Or they might say I think this is a good cut for Thelma or Diana. If they thought it was strong enough they could get it cut right away.
Rudy: Who were your favorite songwriters at Motown?
Thelma: I liked Pam Sawyer and Gloria Jones when they wrote together.
Rudy: Everything they did was very dramatic.
Thelma: There are a lot of good writers there. I love Nick and Valerie Simpson's writing and I LOVE Michael Jackson's writing. I like all the Motown songs.
My favorite all-time writer is Jimmy Webb. Of all the material that I have ever recorded, his songs were the most challenging and the lyrics were the best. It's beautiful and you can picture it.
Rudy: It has also become a classic album for people who are connoisseurs of music.
Alan: When I heard that album for the first time I was floored by the beauty. Rudy do you think Thelma's music with Motown stands out from the rest of her work?
Rudy: It depends on the track. I prefer her singing a great love song instead of something kitschy. I know you had to record those songs Thelma.
Thelma: We all had to do them and if you refused they would say, 'We're just trying to get you a hit song.' It makes you feel like the worst person.
When you are not a songwriter and you don't write for yourself you are at their mercy. We still had the opportunity to say no, but if you say no all the time then you become known as difficult and if you are difficult nobody wants to work with you.
Rudy: When you were under contract did you have to record what they told you or did you get a choice?
Thelma: It all depended on the producer. I worked a lot with Hal Davis and he had so many cuts. I was so excited to be there that I sang all of them.
But Joe Porter said if there was a song that I wanted to sing we could use it. From that point of view I liked working with him, but Hal Davis is who gave me the hits. It just depended on who I was working with.
I learned to work with a whole bunch of different producers. It was good to be with Motown because I came away with a Grammy and an international hit!
Alan: Were you elated to sign with Motown or was it just another project?
Thelma: Back in the early sixties when I was pregnant and having morning sickness I heard Smokey Robinson sing on the radio and hearing about Motown. I thought to myself that I would never, ever be a singer. It will never happen for me. So some years later to turn around and be on the label I was elated to be on the label. I didn't think I would ever be discovered in Long Beach.
Rudy: I consider Thelma to be one of the prominent members of the Female West Coast Singers. People like Darlene Love, Brenda Holloway, and Edna Wright, Merry Clayton, Clydie King, Gloria Jones. These are women of substance.
Alan: Substance being the key word. That's what sets them apart.
Thelma: Those are all the girls I knew of.
Rudy: How do you feel about performing your 'Capitol' work after all these years coming up in England?
Thelma: I think it's going to be fun. I am looking forward to it. It's like new material because I haven't done it in so long. I have to learn it.
Rudy: You got that contract because Art Reynolds was on Capitol right?
Thelma: Yes and they asked me if I wanted to do my own thing.
Rudy: When are you going to England?
Thelma: I will go in November.
Rudy: She is also performing for the first time at the world famous Jazz Cafe in London.
Thelma: This will be my first time to really be there in many years.
Alan: Can you share any valuable lessons you may have learned about the business over the years?
Thelma: Yes I have a story. The first big show I ever did was headlined by Moms Mabley. I went to the rehearsal for the show and the band leader asked me for my charts. I said, 'My charts?'
He said, 'Yes where is your music?' I said, 'I don't have any music.' Then I got the idea to give him some of my 45 records and I told him I can sing these songs.
He sent the horn players on a break and kept the rhythm section there so we could make the charts for my songs so I could stay in the show.
I remember they put me in the same dressing room as Moms Mabley. She had many bottles of Spring water and she was sitting there relaxing. The first show was over-sold.
They had people waiting in line for a second show. The promoters came back to Moms room and said, 'Moms, it looks like we are going to have to do a second show. Is that cool?'
She said, 'It's cool if you have my money.' They told her to not worry and that everything would be fine.
We will collect the money and give it to you after the show. She said, 'I want my money before.' They said, "Come on Moms.' She took those teeth out of her mouth and started chanting, 'We gonna have a riot. We gonna have a riot.'
They came back and counted her out her money. I said, 'I want mine too.' They paid me and I'm not sure if the rest of the performers got theirs.
They were sitting around afterwards waiting for their money and we were packed up and ready to go. I learned that lesson from Moms Mabley. I was really glad to be in that room that day.
To learn more about Thelma Houston visit her MySpace page
We at "Chit Chat" thank Alan, Ruby and Ms. Thelma Houston for an excellent interview. For additional information on Alan Mercer, go to his blog
Taylor Negron, a native of Glendale, California, attended UCLA. He studied acting with Lee Strasberg and studied comedy at a private seminar taught by Lucille Ball.
He went on to join the cast of an improvisational comedy group, whose ranks included talents like Robin Williams, Martin Short and Betty Thomas.
In 1982 Negron made his motion-picture debut as a love-struck, pill-popping, dancing intern in 'Young Doctors in Love' and as the obviously peeved Mr. Pizza Guy in 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High.' He also played Rodney Dangerfield's son-in-law in 'Easy Money.'
He has a great role as the villain Milo, in the Bruce Willis film,' The Last Boy Scout.' Taylor Negron was honored with the distinction of
being asked to teach one of the first comedy courses offered at UCLA.
He is currently working on his one man show and a group show called "Streep Tease' where he is part of a group of eight actors portraying Meryl Streep roles from her films.
I met Taylor Negron eight years ago when I first moved to Los Angeles. I always thought of him as a brilliant artist and after knowing him personally I can tell you that not only is he a giant talent, but he is a sweetheart as well.
I hadn't seen him in a couple of years, so it was wonderful to sit down with him and Eric Venturo after we took his newest photos, and catch up on what is going on with Taylor in his life now.
INTERVIEW
Alan: What's new for you these days Taylor?
Taylor: I developed a show called 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being Taylor Negron' which is a collection of short stories and essays I started writing to perform at Scoping Word Events in Los Angeles, which are so amazing, and I hooked up with musicians to put music into it.
A twenty-one year old guy, Logan Heftel, scored the whole thing.
Alan: How did you meet Logan?
Taylor: I met him at a Starbucks in Salt Lake City. He put a score to my work. He wrote an original song and I have worked with him on the song.
Alan: What is your show like?
Taylor: Basically it is every sad story of my life with a punch line. We are entering very complicated and heavy times right now. People want to laugh.
I don't want to be part of this nonsensical 'What are you wearing at the red carpet?' meaninglessness.
Alan: Is your one man show taking up all your creative energy now?
Taylor: I'm doing this show right now called 'Streep Tease' which is eight monologues from Meryl Streep movies done by eight actors. I was chosen to do 'Sophie's Choice' and everyone started saying to me, 'Oh that must be so funny!' It is so NOT funny. It is so serious.
Eric: What made you want to be a part of this?
Taylor: It's an incredible opportunity you get, when the work is so thrilling, to be able to have the chance to jump in and honor the bi-polar chemistry of Meryl Streep. I had to watch 'Sophie's Choice' twenty times. When I perform it people are very quiet.
Alan: That must be hard to do considering the subject matter.
Taylor: It is. How can people put Hitler's mustache on Obama and call him a Nazi? He didn't murder seven million Jews. When you murder Anne Frank then you can be called Hitler. You are not Hitler just because you grew up in Hawaii. The idea of thinking he is Iranian is so ludicrous also.
Photo Credit: Disney
Alan: Do you still have time for your stand up material?
Taylor: I've been performing stand-up again and it's interesting that after surviving this long being un-plugged, the new thing is everyone went to Twitter and Facebook.
Alan: I know you are on them as well now.
Taylor: So now I'm just in to flirting, insulting people to their face, creating ruckuses and stirs with my big mouth because what are they going to do? Will I get kicked off Facebook if I'm an asshole or if I am loving? I actually made out with a girl at Pavilions because she was a bitch to me and I said, 'Now you have to kiss me.' I need to be part of a real three dimensional life.
Alan: A lot of people are realizing that we need a more human existence again.
Taylor: I believe this is the next trend. People will put down all their applications and they are going to get dirty again. Comedy will stay big because people who focus on dark humor and satire will be able to move people.
Alan: You have also turned into quite the writer haven't you?
Taylor: I've been writing things for the Huffington Post.
Eric: Are you wanting to educate people with your work?
Taylor: All I know is it's been years of 'What are you wearing?' instead of 'What are you thinking?'
Alan: How do you think times have changed?
Taylor: People read 'Gone with the Wind' and they knew what the Civil War was. People don't read 'Gone with the Wind' anymore. In the old days people did know about Vivian Leigh's gowns, but they also knew about the Civil War. We are now in the third generation of no education.
Eric: What do you think has happened to people in our modern culture?
Taylor: People have literally become like the Roman God Narcissus, and they are constantly only looking at themselves in a pool of still water.
Alan: Why do you think this is?
Taylor: Most people are really scared about life. I always go back to Roosevelt with, 'The only thing to fear is fear itself.' It helps me cope.
The Unbearable Lightness of Being Taylor Negron Photo by Carey Graftmiller
Alan: What else has been on your mind these days?
Eric: I was absolutely stunned by the series of Celebrity deaths this summer. It was very sobering and inspiring. I wonder why, when Patrick Swayzee knew he was dying, did he do a TV show with a gun. If I was dying I would do a TV show with a feather...or a cooking show.
Alan: Why do you think your new show is entertaining?
Taylor: I was Lucille Ball's assistant. I learned from Lucy. I saw her cry in my arms. I was only 19. I didn't ask for that. I sat in Groucho Marx's lap. I met Mae West. I knew Timothy Leary. Just by growing up here I became part of California Gothic.
All I can do is to give back by telling my story, have some punch lines and have it move you. We ran the show in New York and I didn't know what was going to happen.
People stayed afterwards and cried. I never had this experience in comedy where people actually want to take my hand and share their experience. That's when you know you've done something when you inspire people to look at and evaluate their life.
Alan: That's great. Are you taking it back to New York?
Taylor: The show is being developed on the road. You throw something up on the wall and it very rarely sticks, but this is something that stuck.
Alan: Do you feel like you are getting older?
Taylor: I know I am getting old because I thought Rhianna was a rice dish!
Eric: What else do you talk about in your show?
Taylor: I talk about growing up in LA and being a model as a child and then being an actor. I was exposed to some really rough stuff. I grew up in a time before kids were considered sacred. I was objectified and I was a victim so one of my concerns is not to be a victim. I want to be the victor of my life. This is what the world has to do. Stop being a victim and stop laying down.
Eric: How do you avoid being a victim now?
Taylor: I don't ever get the short end of the stick! I'm never going to apologize for a biological act, and I believe the highest form of consciousness is being kind to somebody.
Alan: How is your movie career going?
TN: I've done a lot of movies and now that I am getting older it is great because the parts are getting richer. I play psychiatrists a lot.
Alan: Do you need the attention like you used to?
Taylor: No my ego is done. I am just done. I live in France part of the year. I'm re-doing the house in France. Even though I don't have to do any acting anymore I enjoy doing it now because it is the most political thing you can do.
Alan: Plus you thrive on stage.
Taylor: I actually do thrive on stage. But Michael Jackson's death is a lesson to all of us. He thrived on stage but could not do the same in real life. We all have to strive to be happy in our own lives and not on Facebook or through some messed up relationship. but in our lives. It's OK to let people help you. It's OK to ask for help, and it's OK to fire people!
For more information on Alan Mercer to go this blog:
By John Frazier Sr. Entertainment Correspondent & Chief Editor
Rumors. Oscar? Again? First "Monster's Ball", brought actress, Halle Berry her first Oscar and made her the first afro American female to receive this golden statue. Now I hear that new comer, Gabourey Sidibe is in the running.
But who is the man, who made this all possible? When I spoke to friend and director, Ervon Neely, he asked me, why I hadn't written an article on Mr. Daniels. I'd seen the movie, "Monster's Ball" and I knew about the movie, "Precious", but I didn't know much about the man behind the magic of such top quality films.
Before becoming Lee Daniels when born on January 23, 1962, however, he's also listed as being born on December 24, 1959, his name was Lee Cavender Daniel. Place of birth is listed as in Dallas, Texas but also in Philadelphia. Which is correct? This talent director is not an overnight success.
His bio list film's he directed:
The Dungeon Masters (2008) (post-production)
Tennessee (2008) (Producer) which Mariah Carey was also featured
Me, Myself, & I (2007)
The Unforeseen (2007)
Fast Food Nation (2006)
Shadowboxer (2006)
You're Gonna Miss Me (2005)
Los Lonely Boys (2004) (V) (videos "Heaven", "More than Love [Spanish]", "More than Love" and "More than Love [Performance]")
Be Here to Love Me: A Film About Townes Van Zandt (2004)"
Before Sunset (2004)
Alamo Mania (2004) (TV)
Lubbock Lights (2003)
From an Objective Point of View (2002)
The Monster (2001) Sole Producer on this film
I Remember Me (2000)
Don't Dance with Death (1999) (director of photography)
Secrets of the CIA (1998) (TV)
SubUrbia (1996) (director of photography)
Before Sunrise (1995)
The Making of '...And God Spoke' (1993)
Dazed and Confused (1993)
SLACKER (1991)
Never Leave Nevada (1991)
Now I'm finding myself trying to play catch up on the works of Mr. Lee Daniels. What I found also amazing is that this black talent brother is also gay and proud about it. It does not define who he is.
He is, indeed, an example of someone who's knows his own truth. He lives in New York City with his life partner, casting director, Billy Hopkins, and is raising his brother's two children. The move "Precious" could be the one that gets him his Oscar and it's all overdue.
Have you seen "Precious" yet? It's been rumored that the Black community has not embraced this film even though Ms. Oprah and Mr. Tyler Perry are the executive producers. We, at "Chit Chat" would love your opinion.
By John Frazier Sr. Entertainment Correspondent Chief Editor
Before this movie opened worldwide there was an Oscar buzz.
At first I thought the buzz was about comic/actress MoNique, but dear reader, it's about new comer, Brooklyn born, Harlem's brightest star of the moment, Ms. Gabourey Sidibe.
I didn't know about the novel, "Push", by author, Sapphire but in short, it's about a 16 year old mother of two, who's own father is the daddy of the children. Of course this is rape. Her mother, played by MoNique is full of hatred for her daughter and for her own life period.
The year is 1987, Precious Jones is obese, not your classic beauty, has been raped and born two children by her father. She is abused mentally and physically by her mother who blames her daughter for all the above. The emotionally beaten down daughter escapes from this hell through daydreaming and watching television.
The performances are stellar. It's interesting how the story unfolds. Not a dry eye will be in the movie theatre. Singer/actress, Mariah Carey, who plays the social worker, is said to have given an exceptional performance and moving forward, should be able to chart her future as a true actress.
When the movie has its premiere in 2009 at
the Sundance Film Festival, it won three awards and caught the eye of Ms. Oprah and Mr. Tyler Perry, who are listed as the movie's "Executive Producers" Sexy soul rocker, Lenny Kravitz plays a nurse and the View's, Sherri Shepard, Grace Hightower, Bill Sage, Nealla Gordon are all part of this wonderful supporting cast.
When Ms. Sidibe was interviewed on "Entertainment Tonight", when asked how she felt, she answered that it feels like a dream. This raw gifted young lady did not set out to become actress. But when she auditioned, the casting agents were blown away and brought her to the attention of mega director, Mr. Lee Daniel, known for "Monster Ball", which earned Ms. Halle Berry an Oscar.
The NYC native, who's 300 lbs of beauty is a huge plus to the plus size ladies out there. It only proves that talent comes in all sizes. It will be interesting to see how Ms. Gabourey Sidibe blossoms. Watch out world, a star has arrived.
When humans were at the hunter- gatherer stage, cooking was very simple - kill it, throw it on the fire along with anything that was found that day. Spices and cooking equipment were rather simple and since then, cooking has become an art form and yet still remains an essential part of our everyday lives.
Many Asian cultures share the practice of gathering the family together to mingle or celebrate over a big meal; the variety of cultures of Asia each developed their own ethnic cuisine through the interaction of history, environment, and culture. Culinary historians identified 3 main styles in Asian cultures that roughly represent the main types of traditional Asian cooking:
Southwest style is comprised of cuisines from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Burma. In Persian-Arabian culture, the eating of nan (or flat bread) became common, along with mutton, kebabs (from Turkish cooking), usage of hot peppers, black pepper, cloves, and other strong spices, ghee (a butter oil) became a staple in this dietary culture.
Through the teachings of Hinduism, cows were used only for their milk and not for meat. In addition to rice, chapati (made from wheat or barley) is also a main component of the diet, and beans also play an important part in meals.
Northeast style is comprised of cuisines from China, Korea, and Japan. This tradition developed to highlight using fats, oils, and sauces in cooking.
In the northeast dietary culture, the foods, spices, and seasonings go beyond being simple products as they are also used as medicines to promote a long and healthy life. In addition, food became associated with many religious customs, and many northeast Asian cultures used food as symbolic offerings to worship their ancestors.
Chinese cuisine has become the most well-known of all Asian cooking, with numerous styles based on region. The most basic disparity being between northern and southern styles of Chinese cuisine is that Southern dishes highlight freshness and tenderness, and while due to the colder climate - Northern dishes are somewhat oily and the use of vinegar and garlic is more popular.
Photos by Shanna Ravindra
In contrast, Japanese cooking came to highlight the frequent use of deep-frying (i.e., tempura, etc.) using vegetable oil or on the contrary, raw foods (i.e., sushi and sashimi). In Korea, much of the tradition cuisine is centered on grilling or sautéing and the use of hot chili spices (i.e., kim chi, etc.).
Southeast style is comprised of cuisines from Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Viet Nam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. The traditional emphasis in this region is on fragrant and lightly-prepared foods, using a subtle balance of quick stir-frying, steaming, and/or boiling, supplemented with distinct spices and seasonings, including citrus juices and herbs such as basil, cilantro, and mint. Also, while northeastern cuisines emphasize using soy sauce in nearly everything, many cultures in the southeast substitute fish sauce, along with galangal, lemon grass, and tamarind for extra flavor.
In comparing the three cuisines with each other, they noticed that curries are very important to the cuisines of the southeast and southwest, and less in the northeast. Southwestern curries are generally based on yogurt, and the curries of the southeast are generally based on coconut milk. Rice is a staple starch in all three areas. In addition to rice, southwestern cuisines are supplemented with a variety of leavened and unleavened breads while southeast and northeast cuisines add noodles made from rice, egg, or potatoes. Garlic and ginger are used in all three areas, and chilies are much more common in the southwest and southeast.
With all of this in mind, comes Pan Asian Cuisine - which consists of foods across the entire East Asian Region. The menu offerings at Asia Kan are typical dishes from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan.
Their menu adheres to some original recipes and use authentic ingredients to deliver a balance of remarkable flavors.
Asia Kan is ornamented with colorful Buddha paintings, dark wooden tables, and dark leather banquettes that are quite comfy. The staff is extremely friendly and extra attentive. The menu is a fantastic collection of very tasty offerings, although some items are sauce-heavy and predictable Chinese/Thai-influenced dishes, like pad Thai and roast duck, it's the Japanese dishes that are quite popular.
Flavorful starters include tasty hamachi kama, grilled yellowtail drizzled with ponzu sauce; beef Negimaki, grilled miso cod, and the citrus octopus ceviche. Hamachi Kama is the grilled collar of the yellowtail, and at Asia Kan, they do it just to my liking, it is tender and juicy in every bite and best dipped in a ponzu sauce and eaten with a bowl of rice and some seaweed. Don't be put off, many like to chew on the bones.
Their sushi assortment is excellent, there are over 40 rolls to choose from, including the Chef's Special which is spicy tuna, shrimp tempura with tobiko outside and the Wasabi which is salmon, tuna, yellowtail, avocado, cucumber with wasabi tobiko and red tobiko outside - YUMMY.
They have a fabulous cocktail menu plus various sakes to accompany your meal … try the lounge downstairs - it's nice, cozy and dimly lit …
Visiting NYC and wondering where to eat? Perhaps Ms. Kwan has an answer for you:
Chow Mein is a combination of vegetables - mostly celery and onion, but also bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, and mushrooms -- in a cornstarch -thickened sauce, mainly seasoned with soy sauce and served on fried noodles, topped with any number of protein add-ons.
Chop Suey is also a mixture of vegetables, with the same protein additions, but served on rice instead of noodles.
There is a common perception that both of these dishes were invented by a Cantonese immigrant in the mid-late 1800's in trying to produce a Chinese dish appetizing to westerners.
The Cantonese cook stir-fried whatever vegetables were available, added some meat or chicken, and served it on a plate of steamed rice.
He aptly named it, chop suey, which is the English pronunciation of the Cantonese words "tsap seui" ("tsa-sui" in Mandarin) which means "mixed pieces".
Chow Mein and Chop Suey may not have started out as the same dish, but ultimately they were just about the same thing in New York's Chinese-American restaurants and the rest of America. Real Chow Mein wasn't very common to non Asians in New York until the revival of Cantonese food (Hong Kong style) in the 1980s.
The Chinese-American dish that many are familiar with deviates from the original. Instead of a pancake of pan-fried wheat noodles, crunchy on the surface but soft in the center, American Chow Mein is a topping of crunchy deep-fried noodles.
Neither are exactly the same as their authentic Chinese counterparts, but they do have a history. According to my research, the idea of combining leftover vegetables and noodles into a single, stir-fried dish originated in Toisan, a rural area south of Canton.
So, the origins of chop suey may actually lie in the countryside of southern China. Many of the original immigrants to the United States were from this region, making it not so far fetched that they naturally prepared the type of food they were familiar with.
Chow Mein originated in Northern China, where wheat is a staple crop. But not all fried noodles are alike, some are lightly heated in the wok, while others, particularly in Guangdong province and Hong Kong, are fried in bunches in oil until they're browned and crispy on the outer edges but still soft in the middle and topped with a stir-fried and sauced vegetable combination, with or without meat, poultry or seafood plus the varieties of chow mein are as numerous as the regional cuisines.
Great NY Noodletown has been around for as long as I can remember, serving authentic Cantonese cuisine, Hong Kong style roasted meats, a variety of congee, an array of exceptionally prepared "over rice" dishes. Most come here primarily for the noodles - whether its noodle soups, lo mein or pan fried noodles.
The noodle soups are cooked to order in a vat of boiling water. You have a choice in the type of noodles ranging from thin to broad noodles. Also there's a wide selection of toppings for your noodle soup such as wontons, shrimp dumplings, seafood, and roasted meats.
The restaurant's decor is something reminiscent of the mid-80's with wood tables and minimal decorations. By all means, this is a hole in the wall and serves up some of the best Cantonese food found in Chinatown, don't expect anything fancy in presentation, it's rustic, homestyle cooking.
The prices are pretty easy to digest as well. It is awfully bright so, for those of you stumbling in from those dark pubs and night clubs for a bite (yes, they are open until 3 AM) be warned!
The service is mediocre at best, but the food comes fast, in this very casual and straight-forward atmosphere.
Here at Great NY Noodletown, you can't go wrong with the Hong Kong Style pan-fried noodles a.k.a real chow mein and they have also have chop suey on the menu among many simple dishes with lots of flavor.
We know the Chinese have been feasting on noodles for approximately 2000 years, since the Han dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). Some believe that the Italians got their first taste of pasta when Marco Polo brought it back from his long trek across China in the 13th century, but some Italians say they had pasta before that.
Marco Polo described a food he had in China similar to "lagane", Medieval Latin for a thin crepe or fine sheet of dough (the term eventually evolved to lasagna). But lagane, first mentioned in 1st century AD, was not boiled like pasta at the time, although there were some similarities, it cannot be considered pasta.
Then a discovery in 2005, of a well preserved bowl of millet noodles dating back 4000 years ago turned up - was this proof that China invented pasta before Italy? Then there is some argument over who originally came up with the idea of mixing water and flour to create pasta.
The Arabs claim to have been the first to use dried pasta, as a means of preserving flour during their journeys across the desert. However, durum wheat, and thus pasta we know it today, was introduced by Arabs during their conquest of Sicily in the 8th century, predating Marco Polo's travels to China by about 6 centuries - and durum wheat was not known in China until later times.
Your head spinning yet? So, who really invented pasta … will it ever be settled? Perhaps not, but can we all just agree that we love oodles of noodles? Like Italian pasta, Asian noodles vary in width - they can be thick as coffee stir sticks or thin as toothpicks.
When it comes to length, however, they are usually served long and uncut as long noodles symbolize a long life in Chinese tradition. Pasta and noodles have co-existed for centuries - maybe we don't need to change chow mein to ciao mein after all...
Dear Omar I just found out that someone that I'm interested in has slept around with more than a few people. I realize that there was life before me, however, I'm having a hard time separating his yesterday with our possible future. What should I do? Confused
Dear Confused There are a few things I would like you to think about, first what would you want him to do if the situation were reverse?
Secondly, food for thought, he told you which shows that he's taking a chance with you, he could have lied about his past. Being an adult and doing adult things is realizing what you have control over and things you do not have control of.
You clearly have no control over his actions, before you, two, meet.
It sounds to me like you are having second thoughts, so the last thing I would suggest to you is that you search your true feelings, maybe you're not ready, but before you get yourself into a commitment situation make sure that you have all your issues resolved for your sake and his.
Dear Omar I once read that men think about sex every 3 minutes. If this is true, I think about sex every minute. Am I a sex addict? Thinking about Sex.Addict
Dear Addict It's not only thinking about sex that make one a sex addict. If you are jeopardizing your way of life and putting yourself in jeopardy, you may need to seek professional help.
Your thinking about sex constantly does not make you an addict, this is the way "men" are built. Men have several erections while sleeping, it's just a natural thing.
Dear Omar: I'm involved with a married straight man. I see him a few times a week, yet I feel guilty, thinking that this kind of situation could happen to one of my female relatives.
Should I break it off? Should I demand that he pick a side? Should I just continue to enjoy our sex life and not take him serious? TURNED OUT
Dear Turned Out: I see you've got yourself in quite a pickle, well one thing is for sure, giving him an ultimatum is not going to turn him unless he's ready to join the ranks of the happy gay clan.
You're correct in thinking it could be someone you love in that same predicament, but more importantly, you could wind up in that predicament where your lover is torn between you and another person, male or female.
Now that you've seen some of the possibilities, how would this situation make you feel? The longer you stay involved with this married man, the harder it will be to say goodbye.
Dear Omar: A new friend likes to get drunk then have his sexual encounters rape him? How should I confront him about this? HELP!
Dear Help:
First off, I think confronting him would be the wrong approach. You should first learn more about what your friend likes about this particular role play and to make sure he's keeping himself safe by approaching the situation as a caring friend, an inquisitive friend and not a judgmental friend. Remember role playing can be fun. Maybe with a little help from you, he can enjoy his encounters and stay safe without judgment. He told you this as a friend. Judge not, or you will be judged.
Dear Omar: My boyfriend and I have been together for 5 years now. At the beginning of our relationship, he mentioned that he wanted children. I informed him that I didn't. Now he's back to wanting children.
I don't want that kind of responsibility, I enjoy the freedom we have in our relationship, we can pick up and travel whenever.
With children this would stop our flexibility. Now we are fighting about this every other day. CHILDREN OR NO CHILDREN?
Dear Children or Children:
This is a very touchy situation. Let me start by saying, your partner was up front in letting you know how he felt about a family, and you were in from in regard to your feelings.
I think what you both should have done was talk about whether you could make your relationship work with one of you wanting a family and one not. It really isn't a surprise that this is a heated discussion between you two.
Surprisingly enough this is not a gay issue, even straight couples go through this. A question to you, you mentioned about not being able to have flexibility because of children, how do you know this if you don't have children?
I believe it may take a little more planning but it's not impossible.
It sounds like your boyfriend wants a family and wants it withyou. This should not be taken lightly, in fact you should be flattered.
Try talking to him, I'm sure you guys can come up with something, but remember you're more likely to want children than he is to not.
Dear Omar: I'm almost 65, black and alone. I find that when I have a hook up with men around my age some are interested in CBT. At first I didn't know what that meant, but it means Cock and Ball Torture.
I was asked to smack his testicles to the point they turned beet red, the guy was white and he really enjoyed it till climax. Another white man wanted me to insert a thin metal stick into his penis head, push this completely in, till it disappeared. It's like the enjoyment is based on infliction of pain.
Is this normal for older men to push the sexual envelope to the point of confusing pain with pleasure? FROM GREAT BALLS OF FIRE
Dear Mr. Fire: This is not unusual for men to push their sexual limits. It's a matter of choice. What may satisfy one individual may be a turn-off for another.
You should educate yourself However, if this is not a turn-on for you, you should discuss this before the encounter, this way, they're are no surprises or disappointments.
