411 Sports June 2010 by 411 Sports and Entertainment

Introducing Mr. Make you dance “Cupid” Volume VI Issue 07 • June 2010

DALLAS COWBOYS, THE DRAFT AND DEZ BRYANT

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what’s inside

Volume V Issue 35 • June 2010 PUBLISHER/EDITOR CedRiC e. LyonS EXECUTIVE OFFICER Rod JoneS ENTERTAINMENT MANAGER COPY EDITOR S. L. LyonS

TOP TEN SPORTS STORIES OF THE DECADE

STAFF WRITERS euGene LynCh deLMeTRia MiLLeneR beRTRaM d. adaMS CheRyL W. RobinSon dJ biG bink (97.9 The beaT) GReGoRy MooRe daRyL WaShinGTon ChRiS hoWeLL

i honestly cannot believe the 2000's are a decade old.... There have been so many amazing things to happen over the past ten years, that i feel a little cramped to only come up with the top ten sports stories of the decade. So, if i missed one (or several), please don't hate me. There were quite a few to catch our eyes and ears these last ten years, so here's to one Cupid

Sinbad

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ChaRLeS STephen foSSeTT, iii TRina S. GeoRGe CheLSea SheffieLd LaToya haRdaWay peaRL JR. oCTavia WhiTeLoWe MaRk CRuTCheR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES LauRen JaCkSon k edWaRd RoSS DESIGN DEPARTMENT WoRLd pRoduCTion and deSiGn

With the draft over and done with, we take a look back at what was. The grades and the first round, as it was. The most surprising is the

in light of the “non-perfect Game” controversy from detroit Tigers game, i went back to the vault for this post on technology and instant replay that i wrote last november. i felt strongly about

as i was compiling my top 10 list of comics, every comedian in the world popped into my head. So with such a huge list to choose from, i had to come up with a selection process to narrow the list down to t

Mr. Make you dance is doing again. Since 2007 we’ve been on the floor with the “Cupid Shuffle”, now here comes another smash hit “do My Ladies Run this party”. Listening to

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i have to start on this issue, first with the draft. The biggest suprise is the Tim Tebow pick to the broncos. Tim has the package to be a great motovator, but does he have the skill, coming from flordia, can we name a Qb that has made it big in the nfL. i want to talk about the Cowboys pick of dez bryant, the last time the Cowboys picked a reciever in the first round was antoino bryant and he too was given the number 88. i just hope this is not another attempt to envoke greatness upon a reciever. We have had 2 great number 88’s. drew person and Michael irvin, will dez be the next. Speaking of numbers, i want to look at the great sports number in each sports starting with my favorite, football, and because i like the Cowboys we will start with them. i’m not going to go in order i will just go rendomly, starting with the number 12. i would have started with 8 but Troy was not the greatest Qb the Cowboys ever had. The number 12 was worn by one person, Roger Staubach. We are talkng about the orginial comeback king. Captain Comeback was his nickname and in the 4th quarter and with the game on the line, you would want to get the ball in #12’s hands. before John elway there was Roger, before Joe Montana there was Roger. he lead the Cowboys to 5 Super bowls in the 70’s and had lead the city with a host of the Super bowl, Captain is my number 12. John elway never won a Super bowl without a running game, Roger had the oppertunity to have running game and both had the number 33 on their backs. The one that is on my list is not from the ‘72 Cowboys but from the ‘77 Cowboys. he was drafted through a trade with the Seahawks. Tony

THE WATER COOLER

dorsett has two only’s in the nfL. he is the only player to win the hesmian, the national

championship and the Super bowl. he is also the only player to run 99 yards for a touchdown. by the time he retired he finished 2nd in the nfL in yards rushing. dorsett was the cornerstone of the offence for the Cowboys. his

scrimmage in nfL history. another notable fact about his record breaking run was that the Cowboys only had 10 men on the field, as the fullback was unaware of the play being called. dorsett made the pro bowl 4 times during his career (1978, 1981-1983) and rushed for over 1,000 yards in 8 of his first 9 seasons. The only season that he didn't reach the 1,000 rushing yards milestone was the strike-shortened, 9-game season of 1982 which he led the nfC in rushing with 745 yards. he was a first-team all-pro in 1981 and a Secondteam all-pro in 1982 and 1983. dorsett was elected to both the pro football hall of fame and the College football hall of fame in 1994 and was enshrined in the Texas Stadium Ring of honor the same year. in 1999, he was ranked number 53 on The Sporting news' list of the 100 Greatest football players. he is the only player in history who has won the heisman Trophy; won the Super bowl; won the College national Championship; been enshrined in the College hall of fame, and been enshrined in the pro football hall of fame. The football stadium at hopewell high School in aliquippa, pennsylvania, is named after dorsett. i could go on but my wife is standing over my shoulder and i am going to honor her. So, for those of you that would like to read more on great football numbers, check out next weeks issue. i will tackle the numbers 88, 54, 22, and 80. So until next time, don’t eat any wooden nickles.

size was not great but his speed was unbeleivable. he could stop on a dime at full speed and cut. dorsett was a threat that could take it all the way anytime he touched the ball. dorsett recorded 12,733 yards and 77 touchdowns in his 12-year career. dorsett also had 13 receiving scores and even a fumble recovery for a touchdown. on January 3, 1983, dorsett broke a 99yard touchdown run against the Minnesota vikings, which publisher is the longest run from clyons@411sportsnews.com

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June 2010

NFL DRAFT BY

Sam Bradford • QB The Rams had no choice. This kid is a franchise player. He will be a star. They have their quarterback for the next 12 years. (A)

AND

GRADES

411 STAFF

Ndamukong Suh • DT

Gerald McCoy, DT After doing the work on this kid, I actually liked him better than Suh. He will be a better inside pass rusher. He is quick. The Bucs have Warren Sapp without the garbage.

The Lions need help on their defensive line and Suh will be a force for Jim Schwartz. He is big, fast and nasty. Just what you want. They could have gone offensive tackle here.

Trent Williams, OT He fits their system better than Okung. He is more athletic. We know Mike Shanahan likes that in his linemen. He will be a 10year starter.

Oklahoma • Grade A

Nebraska • Grade B+

Oklahoma • Grade A

Oklahoma • Grade B+

Eric Berry, S

Russell Okung, OT

Joe Haden, CB

Rolando McClain, ILB

I think this is too high for a safety. The value isn't there at that position. They have other needs. I just don't think he's worth a top five pick. He's good. But he isn't great.

This is a value pick for the Seahawks. They needed to replace Water Jones and this kid will do it. He is a good player and he fills a major need. I like the pick.

They needed a corner and the word was they liked Kyle Wilson. I like Haden. He is a smooth cover corner who will start right away.

He's a good player, but is there value there? They could have taken a premier pass rusher. They do have troubles with the run defense, but Jason PierrePaul was a better pick

Tennessee • Grade B-

Oklahoma State • Grade B+

Florida • Grade B+

Alabama • Grade C+

C.J. Spiller, RB

Tyson Alualu, DT

Anthony Davis, OT

Ryan Mathews, RB

I love this pick. The kid will be the next Chris Johnson. He can fly. The Bills need a playmaker. If they don't take a QB, they had to help the offense.

Wow. Is this high? The kid is a good football player, but they could have traded back to get him. Why not a pass rusher? Pierre-Paul was a better pick. He's good, but this is high

This is a reach. He is a good player, but this is high. He has some character issues, but they proved with Michael Crabtree last year that doesn't matter. He does fill a need.

They wanted a back, and went and got one. This is high. You don't trade up to get a back. He's just not worth it. They could have waited until the second round. Backs can be found later.

Clemson • Grade A

California • Grade C

Rutgers • Grade C

Fresno State • Grade C-

Brandon Graham, OLB

Earl Thomas, S

Jason Pierre-Paul, DE

Derrick Morgan, DE

Love this pick. Love the aggression to go get him. He is a big-time pass rusher. He will be an immediate impact player in their defense. I like this pick as much as any.

This is the best pick of the first round. The Giants picked a star pass rusher. He will be a force. What a great pick. I love this pick more than any other. He will be a 12-15 sack player in a year.

They have a huge hole at safety, so this makes sense. He has the range you like in a cover safety. I really like this pick. They filled two big needs in this round.

This fills a big hole left by the departure of Kyle Vanden Bosch. I don't like him as much as PierrePaul, but he is safe. It's a good pick.

Michigan • Grade A

Texas • Grade B+

South Florida • Grade A+

* Oklahoma * 6'4¼" * 236 lbs

Mike Iupati, OG

Maurkice Pouncey, C

Sean Weatherspoon, LB

Kareem Jackson, CB

He is a tough guy who will help the run game. The 49ers did a nice job fixing their line with two picks. They will be brutish. He plays a nasty style.

They liked him all along. I think Pouncey would have been their pick, but he was gone. Weatherspoon is a run-and-chase linebacker who fills a need. I think he's a tad overrated.

I really like this pick. He will help the middle of their line. He is a smart, physical player. He will help improve the run game.

This is a need pick. Jackson is a speedy cover corner who has played a lot of NFL-style defense at Alabama. The Texans have a big hole at corner, so it makes sense.

Idaho • Grade B

Florida • Grade B

Missouri • Grade B-

Alabama • Grade B

Jermaine Gresham, TE

Demaryius Thomas, WR

Bryan Bulaga, OT

Dez Bryant, WR

They need a weapon in the middle of the field to help the passing game. He will help open up the passing game. They need a star tight end and Gresham has that potential.

They needed offensive tackle help and this is a player who slipped. At this spot, this is good value. He will push for time at right tackle this season.

He is a good player coming off a leg injury. The knock on him is that he didn't run a lot of routes at Georgia Tech. But he can. He fills a big hole.

You have to like the Cowboys going up to get Bryant. This is a player who will help the passing game in a big way. Forget the off-the-field issues. They were overrated. He can play.

Oklahoma • Grade B+

Georgia Tech • Grade B-

Iowa • Grade B+

Oklahoma State • Grade A-

Tim Tebow, QB

Dan Williams, DT

Devin McCourty, CB

Jared Odrick, DT

By far and away the worst pick in this draft. He's a fifth-round pick -- at best. Horrible. Just horrible.

The Patriots traded down and still got a quality corner. They keep getting younger in the secondary, which they needed to do. He will join Darius Butler as two young corners.

He fills a big need inside. The fact he fell to them was a nice move for the Cardinals. This kid was considered a top 10 pick. Good value.

The Dolphins needed help on their front line and they landed a good, solid player. He might not be a star, but in their 3-4 defense he is perfect.

Florida • Grade F

Tennessee • Grade A

Rutgers • Grade B

Penn State • Grade B

Kyle Wilson, CB

Jahvid Best, RB

Jerry Hughes, DE

Patrick Robinson, CB

The rich get richer. Go ahead and try and throw against their secondary. He will be the nickel corner with Revis and Cromartie. They will blitz even more.

Boise State • Grade A June 2010

He is an explosive pass rusher. Just what they need, right? But he fits what they do. He might also be able to play outside linebacker. Bill Polian knows football players.

This is a bit of a reach. He is a good player, but the concussion issues have to matter. And they traded back in to get him? He's good, but this is too high.

California • Grade C

TCU • Grade A

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He's a nice cover player who can play man coverage, which the Saints need. This probably means Malcolm Jenkins is going to safety.

Florida State • Grade B page

Cover Story

RANGERS, FACT, FICTION OR WAIT TIL THE ALL-STAR BREAK speCIAl

If the mariners are going to get on a roll and make noise in the American league West, they're going to need their ace, Felix Hernandez, in top form. For the Rangers to win the same division, they're going to need solid contributions from Colby lewis on a consistent basis. It's pretty simple, really, and as seattle plays Texas in the second game of the series at the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on Tuesday evening, the mariners will be sensing urgency once again, hoping not to fall too far out of the race in such a pivotal divisional matchup. Hernandez, the runner-up for the Al Cy Young Award last year, had a rough may, but he has been good in June, and his last outing was among his best this season. The big right-hander flummoxed the Twins, striking out nine and allowing one run on five hits in eight innings to earn his first win since April 21. Hernandez also pulled off the rarity of striking out four batters in an inning,

Kazuhiro sasaki did it in 2003. "everything was sharp tonight, to be totally honest with you," catcher Rob Johnson said of Hernandez's effort. "His fastball was moving like crazy in both directions. The curveball-slider combo was really good tonight. He only threw a couple of changeups. The first pitch morneau hit in the first was a changeup, then we just started going to breaking balls, and it was nasty." meanwhile, lewis, who signed a twoyear deal to return to the Rangers after coming into his own in Japan, was looking good in his last start against the White sox, with a 3-1 lead going into the bottom of the sixth, but two innings and two home runs later, he had suffered a loss and fell to 1-4 despite a 3.52 eRA in his past seven outings. "I'm not changing anything," lewis said. "I have to pitch as well as the team is doing. That's just the way it is. I'm used to playing close games in Japan. That's the way it goes. sometimes you score eight, sometimes you score two. one day, you'll give up six and they'll score nine."

BY lloYD VAnCe, 411 spoRTs AnD enTeRTAnImenT

"There's still another month, so we'll see," Andrus said of making his first All-star game. "It would be a blessing. ... I'm just trying to keep working hard and get better every day. I want to make it in and be an All-star." The only leading vote-getter among the Rangers is still Guerrero, who tops the designated hitter list with 1,210,521 fan votes. The Angels' Hideki matsui is second with 638,237 votes. It would be Guerrero's ninth All-star Game and his first in the stadium where he played his home games as an Angel. "We're going to play them three games before the All-star Game over there, so it won't be anything special," Guerrero said. "But the thing that gets me is that I played a lot of years for them." nelson

Cruz

second

among

And then thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s this Rangers designated hitter Vladimir Guerrero continues to lead in the latest All-star voting for the American league, but other Rangers are seeing their names on the list as well. which he accomplished in the eighth after a wild pitch/strikeout combo landed Joe mauer at first, and Hernandez responded by fanning Justin morneau to end his night, marking the first time a seattle pitcher has fanned four in a frame since page

most notably is shortstop elvis Andrus, who's second in the latest fan voting that's been released. Andrus is second among shortstops (695,957 votes) behind the Yankees' Derek Jeter.

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June 2010

Cover Story outfielders with 809,902 votes behind seattle's Ichiro suzuki, who has with 918,730. Cruz was hitting .327 with 10 home runs and 34 RBIs in 32 games before going on the disabled list. Josh Hamilton is fourth with 697,993 votes. Among infielders, Ian Kinsler is third among second basemen with 585,277 votes and michael Young is third among third baseman with 528,642 votes. Catcher Taylor Teagarden is fourth at his position despite being in Double-A. Fans can cast their votes for starters up to 25 times at mlB.com and all 30 club sites using the 2010 All-star Game mlB.com Ballot sponsored by sprint until July 1 at 10:59 p.m. CT. starting rosters will be announced during the 2010 All-star Game selection show on TBs on July 4. Baseball fans around the world will then be able to select the final player on each team via the 2010 All-star Game Final Vote sponsored by sprint.

RANGERS, FACT, FICTION OR WAIT TIL THE ALL-STAR BREAK

Andrew leblanc, a lawyer for a group of secured lenders, said at a court hearing yesterday that the group has been in contact with a rival bidder who is ready to participate in an auction for the team. George postolos, whose career includes a stint as the president of the Houston Rockets basketball team, is the bidder’s representative, he said in an interview during a break at the hearing. He declined to identify the bidder. He said he has previously represented Houston businessman Jim Crane. Crane unsuccessfully bid for the team before it agreed to a sale to the investor group led by Ryan, the team’s president, and Chuck Greenberg, an

u.s. Bankruptcy Judge D. michael lynn in Fort Worth, Texas, said he wasn’t prepared to rule on whether the Rangers should auction itself. “I have not crossed the bridge,” on whether to require an auction, the judge said following leblanc’s remarks about the rival bidder. “I’ve not decided anything about the plan, the sale or anything else,” he said. Texas Rangers Baseball partners filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection last week with plans to sell to the Greenberg-Ryan group. The sale requires bankruptcy court approval. The lender group, which includes monarch Alternative Capital, opposes the sale. It says the team can get a better deal.

And the voting doesn't end there. Fans will have the opportunity to participate in the official voting for the Ted Williams most Valuable player Award presented by Chevrolet at the midsummer Classic via the 2010 Allstar Game mVp Vote sponsored by sprint. The All-star Game will be televised nationally by FoX and around the world by major league Baseball International. espn Radio will provide exclusive national radio play-by-play, while mlB.com will offer extensive online coverage. And let’s not forget off-Field Rangers Creditors say Rival Ready to Bid for Bankrupt Team Texas Rangers creditors said a competing bidder wants to buy the baseball team, which has agreed to a $575 million sale to a group that includes Hall of Fame pitcher nolan Ryan. June 2010

investor in minor league baseball clubs. Crane, the founder of Houstonbased freight forwarder eGl Inc., which was acquired in 2007 by Ceva Group plc, couldn’t immediately be reached for comment. leblanc declined to comment about the identity of the bidder after yesterday’s hearing. www.411sportsnews.com

At yesterday’s hearing, lynn ordered mediation involving the team, the lenders and major league Baseball. The case is In re Texas Rangers Baseball partners, 10-43400, u.s. Bankruptcy Court, northern District of Texas (Fort Worth).

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IT’S

TOME TO

leagues increase their use of replay and technology in general. normally, i don’t like talking about events that take place on the field, but today i’m going to make an exception. on Wednesday night, a World Cup qualifying soccer match was decided by one person who made a mistake that was easily identifiable by a simple video replay. however, because the sport was dependent on an archaic system of in-game governance that was developed decades if not centuries ago, the result of the game and any number of future events has been permanently altered.

putting aside the fan elements, my post below primarily focuses on how the business of sports really needs to be the influencing factor in how

page

THE

TECHNOLOGY

Business in the News

in light of the “non-perfect Game” controversy from detroit Tigers game, i went back to the vault for this post on technology and instant replay that i wrote last november. i felt strongly about increasing the use of replay then, and it will be interesting to see if the fans’ reaction to last night’s events leads to any new action by MLb. i know that fans will continue to disagree about whether replay is “good for the game”, but how do you think those 17,000+ fans feel about being denied their chance to witness history? how does this impact their decision to attend future games? What about the fans that watched on television? is their fan experience “good for the game?”

EMBRACE

This same situation has happened in multiple major sporting events over the past few months, including several prominent errors in the MLb playoffs, but for the most part, the governing bodies for these organizations prefer to stand by and depend on their “traditional” means for making all in-game decisions. This system may have made sense was professional sports was more of a casual pastime, but now it is a multibillion dollar global industry, and each one of these incorrect decisions can have serious repercussions. a team that misses the next round of playoffs because of a bad call loses out on millions in ticket revenue. a player that is invalidly judged by an official’s decision can lose the chance at significant endorsement money. an entire league can suffer (or benefit) because of an officiating decision that impacts what teams are playing and the television ratings that come

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with those teams. Meanwhile, sports organizations have embraced technology in almost every other form, from evaluating the players statistically to refining their business processes. Clearly everyone recognizes the importance of technology as sports have evolved, but yet for some reason, they refuse to let the technology onto the field in the form of instant replay. Would any other industry operate in this manner? Can you imagine if Walmart decided that they needed to use a more “traditional” way to run their checkout lines and made the staff type in each number, because “that’s how they’ve always done it.” The errors that would occur would ultimately have a significant impact on their business, ruining their other technological advantages that they’ve developed in their inventory management processes. i understand that trying to add instant replay into sports is a complicated process with many potential pitfalls. This is why i give a lot of credit to the nfL for their work in this area. They acknowledged the problem, created a replay system, and constantly work to refine it based on the needs of the sport. i would hope that more sports, like soccer and baseball for example, eventually decide to follow the nfL’s lead and develop their own comparable systems. putting aside the game for a moment, there is simply too much money riding on what happens on the field for everyone to overlook these issues.

June 2010

Thibodeau distraction comes at worst time for Celtics 411 SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT philadelphia, pa (Sports network) - another distraction isn't what the boston Celtics needed right now but don't blame Tom Thibodeau. The nba's best assistant finally got a head coaching job this weekend when he accepted a three-year deal to mentor the Chicago bulls. according to the Chicago Tribune, the hire will be made official following the conclusion of the nba finals between the Lakers and Celtics but everyone now knows Thibodeau is out the door. in a perfect world, Chicago's new coach would have waited for boston to raise its 18th nba championship banner before announcing he was moving on. but, it's not Thibodeau's fault that the system forced him and the bulls to make a decision. if Tibs had hemmed or hawed, Chicago may have moved on to the next name on its list. Meanwhile, Thibodeau had already burned

June 2010

bridges in new Jersey and new orleans and a year ago, interviewed but didn't get offers from Sacramento, detroit and philadelphia. heck, his own team sees him as a career assistant and would have never considered him as an option to replace doc Rivers.

kobe bryant or why the Lakers drubbed his team on the boards on Game 1, Rivers was forced to talk about Thibodeau's new gig at practice on Saturday.

Waiting was simply not feasible for Thibodeau.

no one doubts Thibodeau, the nba's top defensive assistant, will give his all in his final few days with the Celtics but the fact he was forced to make the move now will be looked at by some small-minded people as selfishness.

The timing of the move was certainly not the best considering the Celtics are coming off an emphatic Game 1 loss, a daunting hole considering the history of the Lakers. Los angeles has been nearly unbeatable when winning Game 1 of a playoff series, holding a 59-7 mark in such scenarios. even more staggering, its head coach phil Jackson, has been unbeatable, compiling a mind-blowing 47-0 mark when his team takes Game 1. The Celtics hope to take the first step in halting that impressive run when Game 2 of the finals tips off Sunday night from Staples Center in Los angeles, where the Lakers have won 12 straight playoff games. instead of talking about how he plans to stop

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"he deserves the job," Rivers said. "i think he's the best candidate out there. i've said that for three years now. So let's hope it's true. but other than that we're going to leave it at that."

in reality, Thibodeau not only has the right to better his personal situation, he had an obligation. To their credit, the Celtics touted Thibodeau's skills on Saturday and tried to steer the conversation back toward the Lakers. "i'm sure he'll be a great coach," Rajon Rondo said. "he's a great defensive coach for us now. he's very vocal. he talks to the players and has a great relationship with his players. i wish him the best." "it won't have an impact," Rivers added. "Right now we're focused on basketball. We're focused on the nba finals. There's two teams. There's the Lakers and the Celtics, and that's what we're going to keep the focus on."

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TIM BROWN'S RADIO SHOW LAUMCHES IN DALLAS... Game on Sports productions is pleased to announce that starting on Saturday June 19, 2010, The Legends of Sport With Tim brown, a nationally syndicated radio show will hit the air

waves on kfXR 1190am in dallas/fort Worth at 10 am, CST. already airing in 120 radio markets, including

The king of bar-b-q and soul food.

internationally on the american forces Radio network, Sirius Radio, iTunes, uS and World airways, and in Canada and the virgin islands, this is something that was much needed because dallas is home to the former heisman Trophy winner. "i am very excited to be heard in dallas," said brown, who is well known in the area from his high school days at Woodrow Wilson. "Game on Sports productions delivered on their promise to have the show on in dallas. This means a lot me because all my family, friends, and all the people that have followed my career can now be part of the show." l "We like what we have heard so far," says darren peck, president of Sports byline uSa. Just keep those good guests coming, and those great questions flowing. We had no idea that this show would be this good so soon. Listening to the show on a weekly basis and hearing

how relaxed Tim is, is remarkable. his knowledge of sports, not just football is terrific. again, we are very pleased to have him as part of our programming lineup." The local show will have more elements than the national show. it will still be produced by Game on Sports productions, in conjunction with dallas based Media Tech. "unquestionably we will promote this show to the fullest, said Thomas bailey, president of Game on Sports productions. This is what we really wanted from the start. There is an old saying, "be careful what you wish for, you just might get it, and we got it, now it's Game on!" "also there is a 99% chance that the show will expand to 2 hours in the very near future. Stay tuned because you definitely don't want to miss what we have in store for the sports fans of dallas/fort Worth."

Mon-Sat 15 Vegs. and 20 Meats Sunday 30 Meats and 20 Vegs. 2 Chop Beefs for a $1.50 Daily Specials BEST OF THE BEST IN FRIED FISH

OVER 30 MEATS AND 20 VEGETABLE VARIETIES SERVED ON SUNDAYS. “VOTED BEST BAR-B-Q BY D MAGAZINE 2010”

2901 Lancaster Rd • Dallas, TX 75216 Open Monday - Thursday 11:00 - 10:00 Friday & Saturday 11:00am - midnight Sunday 10:30 - 8:00pm 214-302-3000 ph 214-302-3023 fax page

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June 2010

Dallas Cowboys, the Draft anD Dez bryant The dallas Cowboys had 6 picks in this year’s 2010 nfL draft class, and now it’s time to take a look to see how they fared in terms of the talent they selected. dallas came into the draft with few needs, though getting help at fS and oT was a necessity. With so few needs, they were allowed to basically select mostly with the best player available strategy. below we list the players they have chosen and also give our grade on how we think the Cowboys fared. Cowboys Draft picks: Round 1 (pick 24): WR Dez Bryant from oklahoma state nfL SCouTinG RepoRT: bryant is an extremely talented receiver that has legitimate downfield speed as well as the ability to adjust to off-target throws. he is extremely competitive to the ball when he is the target but sometimes shows a lackadaisical attitude when on the back side of plays or when asked to block. he needs to be more precise on his route running and not round off his breaks on the hard cuts. a consensus all-america selection in 2008 as a receiver and the big 12 special teams player of the year ... Ranked among the top three nationally in four major categories and was among the top 25 in six categories during his sophomore season ... Scored 32 touchdowns in 28 career games ... despite just one full year as a starter, he ends his oSu career with a school record three punt returns for touchdowns on just 22 returns, fourth all-time with 2,425 receiving yards, fourth with 143 catches and no. 11 in scoring with 194 points ... had nine 100-yard receiving games ... had a pair of 200-yard receiving games to tie a school record in that category. Round 2 (pick 23): IlB sean lee from penn state nfL SCouTinG RepoRT: he has a good frame and natural strength to take on blockers. he is a solid tackler but not explosive on contact. Sean has decent range in pursuit but wins with effort, instincts and techniques more than athleticism. he can be effective as a zone pass defender but may be a liability in man coverage schemes. he uses his hand well to shed blockers and work thru trash. one of the most versatile nittany Lions, Lee has experience at all three linebacker positions, but his leadership is also another great asset. Round 4 (pick 28): CB Akwasi owusuAnsah from Indiana (pA) nfL SCouTinG RepoRT: owusu-ansah is an outstanding player at the division ii level that will need to make the transition to the talent in the nfL. he is an athletic defender that can play as a rolled up corner in cover two or possible a safety in the box. owusu-ansah has excellent instincts and ball skills to maintain leverage as a run defender as well as making plays in the passing game. he is as solid rap tackler and can contribute on coverage units June 2010

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(special teams) as well as being an excellent return specialist at this level. owusu-ansah is a prospect that may take a year or two to make the jump to the next level but has the raw athleticism, attitude and measurables to develop into a solid nfL player. Round 6 (pick 10): oT sam Young from notre Dame nfL SCouTinG RepoRT: young was a blue chip prospect, out of florida, that became an instant starter his freshman year and has been a mainstay on the offensive line for the irish. he is a massive blocker with long arms that can simply engulf opponents once he gets his hands on them. he lacks top initial quickness and can be beaten off the edge by explosive edge rushers. While he has started at both left tackle and on the right side he is best suited to be a right tackle in the nfL. Round 6 (pick 27): CB Jamar Wall from Texas Tech nfL SCouTinG RepoRT: Wall has a good combination of size and strength for a perimeter defender. he can be a physical runsupport player, making some powerful hits to set the tone in a game. he has good overall athleticism but lacks great pure speed as a perimeter defender. his ball skills are above average. Wall was a productive player with durability throughout his career. he runs well but appears to be somewhat stiff when changing directions. Round 7 (pick 27): DT sean lissemore from William & mary Cowboys draft Grade: (b) – dallas moved up to get both dez bryant and Sean Lee in the first two rounds, knowing that both can come in an start right away. Jones is hoping that bryant can give them some of the same things Moss did in his prime, and bryant also has the skill set of a Michael irvin which was enticing to the Cowboys. fourth-round pick akwasi owusuansah can play both Cb and Safety, and he is also a solid returner to help out on special teams which is an added bonus. Sam young fits the Cowboys’ scheme along the o-Line and he can be groomed to be an eventual piece. for what few needs the Cowboys had, they covered them and added at least three starting-caliber players.

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June 2010

MISS DALLAS JANUARY

MARRIETTA FEBRUARY

MICKY MARCH

AJAY APRIL

KIMBERLY MAY

MARRIETTA JUNE

JUNE 2010 SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR Monday

Sunday

Tuesday

Wednesday 1

d.L. hughley @ addison improv venue: addison improv * Location: 4980 beltline Rd #250, dallas, Texas, 75254

alan barnes fine art presents impressions of europe, a collection of over 50 recent ... 10:00a to 5:00p alan barnes fine art, dallas TX

own your own Tax franchise business Seminar Time: 7:00 pM Renaissance dallas Location: 2222 Stemmons fwy,

Thursday 2

harvey Martin Classic 12:00 press Conference dallas City hall

harvey Martin Classic Golf Tournament The Golf Club at Castle hills 7:30 Shotgun

Table of Contents: Stories of hunger and Resilience 9:00a to 6:00p Janette kennedy Gallery, South Side on Lamar, dallas TX

MS JUICCI name: shan Brown nickname: ms Juicci (www.msjuicci.com) Birthplace and Date: louisiana oct 21 Height: Weight: 5'5 140 measurements: 34 -26- 43 eye color/Hair color: brown Best Asset: my smile Career Goal: Currently finishing up my masters in speech pathology and Audiology to open up my own clinics to help children and adults with learning disabilities. I also plan on continuing to do motivational speaking. Also,releasing my 360 Denim line.

summer or Winter? summer of course, so I can show off the hard work I put in the gym.

Favorite sport: Basketball What is your dream job? owning a

harvey Martin Classic Cotton bowl kick off 5:00pm new Mexico Workshop 16 brazos Gallery, Reception ... 7:00p to 9:00p brazos Gallery, Richland College,

CALENDAR GIRL

successful speech pathology clinic

What's the 411 about you? To keep it simple, after graduation I received a softball scholarship to the historically HBCu southern university A & m college, after a couple of years I decided to walk away from the sport and join the us Army as a way to have something in life to fall back on. I served six years and one year abroad in "operation enduring Freedom" in Afghanistan. upon returning I started modeling for my current managers clothing line Jeanisis Clothing and while still finishing up my college degree. Things took off and I began to start modeling and getting offers for magazine covers and spreads. I began to use the modeling as a stepping stone in to other avenues such as motivational speaking and hosting parties which lead me to where I am today.

harvey Martin Classic 11:00am Luncheon Westin City Center

Saturday

June 2010

Friday

Favorite Team: new orleans saints (The super Bowl Champs) Jet or 411 sports? That is a hard choice because I am fans of both in their own way.

mountains or Beach? Beach because there is nothing sexier than sitting in the sun, drinking something relaxing, watching the sun set and having a peace of mind. Do you have any Brothers or sisters? I am an only child and I worked hard because failure was not a option in my household. What would you do if you won a million dollars? pay my 10%, invest my money wisely and make sure myself and my family is secure. Complete this phrase: "I would be voted most likely... to be the class clown If you could change 1 thing about yourself what would it be? not sure because I feel secure within myself. Bikini or one-piece? one piece because I work hard to show off this body instead of covering it up isn't that what the guys want to see. Worst job ever: Working at this telemarketing firm trying to get people to www.411sportsnews.com

purchase our services. That job was the pits trying to make people buy something when their mind is already made up.

How much would you pay to win a date with yourself? (i.e. Charity Auction) It depends on what the charity is. Would you rather cook or clean? Clean because cooking takes to much time. Who pays on a date? It is an equal split most of the times because I feel can hold my own. What is your hottest sports opinion? I would say that Reggie Bush needs to be a more down hill runner versus east to West, don't you think so? Biggest mistake: sallie mae loan once while in school lol!! I've never been able to: sew anything my last meal would be: my mother's soul food dish of everything that puts you sleep afterwards!!!!

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COVER SPECIAL 411 SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Ice cube: From NWA to “Are We there yet” T

hey were called "the world's most dangerous group" for a reason. it wasn't just good to be bad when it came to eazy-e, dr. dre, MC Ren, dJ yella and ice Cube: it was life-altering. it feels almost criminal to categorize n.W.a as merely a group. They were and are a state of mind, a lifestyle, a movement. With all the dope-selling, the graphic sex and violence in their lyrics, n.W.a were like voices from the other side of the ghetto. While the east Coast was dominating hip-hop, the ghetto-entrenched narratives of n.W.a's 1989 breakthrough, Straight outta Compton, introduced society to a whole different 'hood mentality. ice Cube in particular could make you feel like you were standing on the corner of Crenshaw and Slauson in South Central L.a. with a 40-ounce in your hand, getting ready to duck the swing of a bigoted cop's baton. Lyrically, the underrated MC Ren was right on his heels - so cold-hearted in his delivery and remorselessly precise with his bars. The group's influence has reached far beyond its songs. With Ruthless Records, the late eazy-e helped to design the template for the independent rap-label hustle. hollywood has become so enamored of the former public enemy number-one ice Cube that he now stars in kids' flicks. and dre has become simply the greatest hip-hop producer of all time, helping to launch the careers of Snoop dogg, the d.o.C., eminem and 50 Cent, among others - and eazy didn't do too badly for himself, with bone Thugs-nharmony. page

o'Shea Jackson (born June 15, 1969), better known by his stage name ice Cube, is an american rapper, actor, screenwriter, film director, and producer. he began his career as a member of C.i.a and later joined the rap group n.W.a. after leaving n.W.a in 1989, he built a successful solo career in music and cinema. Jackson was born in South Central Los angeles, California, the son of doris Jackson (née benjamin), a hospital clerk and custodian, and hosea Jackson, who worked as a groundskeeper at uCLa. his cousins are Teren delvon Jones, also known as del tha funkee homosapien, of deltron 3030, Gorillaz and hieroglyphics, and kam of rap group The Warzone. at age sixteen, Jackson developed an interest in hip hop music, and began writing raps in Taft high School's keyboarding class. he attended the phoenix institute of Technology in the fall of 1987, and studied architectural drafting. With friend Sir Jinx, Jackson formed the C.i.a., and they performed at parties hosted by dr. dre. in an interview with well-known british broadsheet newspaper The Guardian, Jackson stated that he is a Muslim, having converted sometime in the 1990s. he was believed to be a member of the nation of islam, the controversial islamic group led by Louis farrakhan and was quoted as saying that the organization is "the best place for any young black male". in 1987 ice Cube and dr. dre released the ep My posse, under the alias Cia. after the collaboration, Jackson showed eazy-e the lyrics to "boyz-n-the-hood". www.411sportsnews.com

eazy-e, although initially rejecting the lyrics, eventually recorded the song for n.W.a. and the posse, the debut album for the group n.W.a that included him, dre, and other rappers MC Ren and dJ yella. by this point ice Cube was a full-time member of n.W.a along with dr. dre and (to a lesser extent) MC Ren. Jackson wrote dr. dre and eazy-e's rhymes for the group's landmark album, Straight outta Compton, released in 1988. however, as 1990 approached, Jackson found himself at odds with the group's manager, Jerry heller, after heller responded to the group's financial questions by drafting up a new arrangement. as he explains in his book: "heller gave me this contract, and i said i wanted a lawyer to see it. he almost fell out of his chair. i guess he figured, how this young man turn down all this money? [$75,000] everybody else signed. i told them i wanted to make sure my stuff was right first." solo career in 1990, ice Cube recorded his debut solo album in Los angeles with the bomb Squad (public enemy's production team). amerikkka's Most Wanted was released in february 1990 and was an instant hit, riding and contributing to the rising tide of rap's popularity in mainstream society. The album was charged with controversy, and he was accused of misogyny, and racism. Subsequently, Jackson appointed the female rapper yo-yo (who appeared on amerikkka's Most Wanted) to the head of his own record label and helped produce her debut album, Make Way for June 2010

Ice cube: From NWA to “Are We there yet”

the Motherlode. This was followed by a critically acclaimed role as 'doughboy' in John Singleton's hood-based drama, boyz n the hood. in the same year as amerikkka's Most Wanted, Jackson released the acclaimed ep, kill at Will which sold well, becoming the first hip hop ep to go both Gold and platinum. his 1991 follow-up, death Certificate was regarded as more focused, yet even more controversial, and critics accused him again of being anti-white, misogynist, and antisemitic. The album is thematically divided into the 'death Side' ("a vision of where we are today") and the 'Life Side' ("a vision of where we need to go"). it features "no vaseline," a scathing response to n.W.a's attacks and "black korea," a track regarded by some as prophetic of the L.a. riots, but also interpreted as racist by many; it was still being cited years after its release. Jackson toured with Lollapalooza in 1992, which widened his fan base. Jackson released The predator in november 1992, which had been recorded amidst the La uprising of 1992. Referring specifically to the riots, in the first single, "Wicked", he rapped "april 29 was power to the people and we might just see a sequel". The predator debuted at number one on both the pop and R&b charts, the first album in history to do so. Singles from The predator included "it Was a Good day" and the "Check yo Self" remix, and the songs had a two part music video. The album remains his most successful release, with over three million copies sold in the uS. however, after The predator, June 2010

ice Cube's rap audience slowly began to diminish. Film work following his role as 'doughboy' in boyz n the hood, in 1992 he starred alongside ice-T, and bill paxton in Walter hill's action film, Trespass, and then in The Glass Shield. ice Cube was offered to co-star with Janet Jackson in the 1993 film poetic Justice, but he refused because he claimed that he was not at a point in his career where he would play in a romantic movie, so the role was given to Tupac Shakur instead. John Singleton had encouraged ice Cube to try his hand at screenwriting, telling him, "if you can write a record, you can write a movie. With this encouragement, ice Cube wrote the screenplay for what became the 1995 comedy friday, in which he also starred, alongside then-upcoming comedian Chris Tucker. friday became a hit, earning $28 million worldwide on a $3.5 million budget, and spawned two sequels, next friday and friday after next. That year he also starred in his second collaboration with John Singleton, higher Learning, as world-weary university student, "fudge"; a role for which he earned award nominations. in 1997 Jackson starred in the action thriller dangerous Ground as a South african exiled from his country to escape to america and returns fifteen years later, he also had a supporting role in the film anaconda that same year. he wrote, executive produced, and made his www.411sportsnews.com

COVER

directorial debut in The players Club in 1998, and in 1999, starred alongside George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg in the critically acclaimed Three kings. in 2000, he wrote and appeared in the friday sequel next friday. in 2002, ice Cube starred in the commercially successful movie barbershop, as well as all about the benjamins and the third film in the friday trilogy, friday after next (which he again wrote). in 2004, he appeared in barbershop 2: back in business, and Torque; in 2005 he starred in the action movie XXX: State of the union, the comedy are We There yet? and are We done yet?, co-starring nia Long. ice Cube is not done yet, with the success of “are We There yet” and are We done yet”, ice Cube produced the sitcom ”are We There yet” starring Terry Crews. "Terry Crews is the perfect person to replace me as nick," ice Cube disclosed in a statement. "his physical comedy is undeniable and no one runs a show like ali. We are dedicated to creating a new template for family comedy." additionally, ice Cube is preparing for the release of the comedic film Janky promoters, which also stars Mike epps and young Jeezy. he married kimberly Woodruff in 1992, with which he has four children. from the 2000s onwards, Jackson focused on acting, and his musical output has slowed down considerably. he remains one of the most visible West Coast rappers, having helped originate gangsta rap.

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HE SAY/ SHE SAY i would say that i am a pretty and intelligent black woman. i am a gogetter and i have my own. i would also say that i am very strong willed and have a very strong personality. i don’t believe that i need to set aside “who i am” just to please someone i am trying to get to know. i consider myself to be a strong independent woman who can do things on her own, but there are some things a woman just isn’t built for, so you will never hear me say i don’t need a man…hell yeah i do…you know why cause i enjoy xes, i am scared of bugs, i forget to change my filters every 30 days, my garage door sounds like its coming off the hinges and i cant get up under my car and see what that weird noise is. i am a girly girl and some things i just don’t do. don’t play! i will call that dude i don’t want to be bothered with to come fix something in a heartbeat. i won’t lie or front, that’s just me. Some things i am just not cut out for and it is nice to know that a nice strong man is there to pick up that slack. i believe that women should be submissive to some extent. but being submissive does not mean losing the things that make you the wonderful woman you are. i have dated plenty of guys – from minimum wage to millionaires but one thing i seem to find consistent is that they expect for me to conform to who they want me to be not who i am…the woman they met the one they said they liked…so why do you want to change me? you will not believe the number of guys who have said to me you should cut your hair and get one of those short hairstyles like everybody else and i’m thinking to myself did you hear what you said, “like everybody page

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June 2010

HE SAY/ SHE SAY else”…why do i want to be like everybody else? That’s not how you met me so whats the problem? i don’t get it, if i said to a man “you should get a Mohawk, cause i think its sexy and everybody is wearing them” what do you think he would say…hmmmm…eXaCTLy, so why should you come making suggestions to me about my appearance when you were attracted to me enough to say something to me in the first place! another thing i like is the guy who has to be in control of everything and flips out over the littlest things. i recently went on a trip with this guy and i was Sooo looking forward to it because we were going to a beautiful city i had never been too. Man what i surprise was in for. he loved using the “b” word!! huh?! yeah i told him he needs to find another favorite word cause that is not what that is! We get on the elevator at our hotel and these little kids didn’t realize they needed to put the key in to activate the elevator to get to the guest floors so we ended up going up instead of down so we hopped off so we can go down and as soon as we got off the elevator he said to my surprise “little bitches”!! yes!! i was like what the hell! i told him that was rude and uncalled for…the kids didn’t speak english and they didn’t know what to do…actually i am still a little stunned by the way he acted. Then i was trying to help him get back to the hotel, what i neglected to inform you is that he is from this city we are in! So anyway, i am trying to help him navigate and i said “you should’ve turned right here” and he said “no that’s a one way i cant do that”, i said “yes you can, the cab just did”. he says “well the cab was wrong”, buT he decides to go that way anyway and still complained that we were in the wrong for going that way! exactly, what the hell kind of mess is that?! it wasn’t that serious to admit that you were wrong. i didn’t rub it in his face i just sat in my seat thinking about how i could punch his head thru the window and not go to jail in this city i’m only visiting! LoL…Why is it that we as people continue to fail to realize that we can’t change anyone but ourselves. There is no amount of controlling you can do to make me want to conform to things the way you want them. how about this – when you see something you don’t like tell me and we can discuss it. i believe in all relationships there should be some sort of compromise between the parties, because if not if i try to make you do things my way and you try to make me do things your way we will continue to battle each other and butt heads! i will not agree with everything you do or like and i am sure you will not agree with me on things but that is why we sit down and communicate and talk about them otherwise things wont work out. We will harbor our ill feelings and start to resent each other and that’s not fair to anyone so lets keep it real as adults and learn not to try to control everything cause at the end of the day something’s you just have no control over! June 2010

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BlackTopTens.com

Top Ten Lists Featuring African Americans published on february 11th 2010 by Leon Shepherd as i was compiling my top 10 list of comics, every comedian in the world popped into my head. So with such a huge list to choose from, i had to come up with a selection process to narrow the list down to ten. The criteria for this list included being able to be funny on stage performing stand-up, as well as being funny on television and in movies. other factors included were c.d. sales, and longevity. i’m sure there are some of you who might feel that there is a name missing from the list, or you might have a difference of opinion regarding the order of the list. if so, feel free to share your thoughts, comments and opinions. 10. sinbad 1956 – I’m sure some of you may be saying, “sinbad? How did he make the list?” Well, sinbad made the list because of his ability to do something many comedians are unable to do, and that is to be clean and funny at the same time. his bio: funny man Sinbad has been in the comic business for over two decades now and is still going strong. having toured the country several times over and appearing in stand up comedy venues all over the globe, Sinbad is a veteran to the game. his style, being based around that of clean humor, can be appreciated by audiences of all ages and still remains humorous without the ever popular sexual and fart preferences of most comics today. he remains snappy and quick witted throughout his entire performance and is certain to conjure laughs from all who view his routines. he has acted in over 15 different movies, as well as performed roles in over 20 different television programs. 9. Bernie mac 1957 – 2008 Bernie mac had a TV show that was original and d i f f e r e n t . Throughout his show he would look and talk straight into the c a m e r a , “America…”. his bio: bernard Jeffrey McCullough (october 5, 1957 – august 9, 2008), better known by his

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Top 10 Comedians

stage name bernie Mac, was an actor and comedian. born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Mac gained popularity as a stand-up comedian. he joined comedians Steve harvey, Cedric the entertainer, and d. L. hughley as The original kings of Comedy. after briefly hosting the hbo show Midnight Mac, Mac appeared in several films in smaller roles. his most noted film role was as frank Catton in the remake ocean’s eleven and the titular character of Mr. 3000. he was the star of The bernie Mac Show, which ran from 2001 through 2006, earning him two emmy award nominations for outstanding Lead actor in a Comedy Series. his other films included starring roles in booty Call, friday, The players Club, head of State, Charlie’s angels: full Throttle, bad Santa, Guess Who, pride, Soul Men, and Madagascar: escape 2 africa.

Claiming that he was always “flipped out”, Wilson’s barracks mates gave him his famous nickname. during the 1960s, Wilson became a regular at the apollo Theater in harlem and was a favorite guest on The Tonight Show, Laugh-in, and The ed Sullivan Show. in 1970, Wilson got his own television program, The flip Wilson Show, debuting on nbC. he played host to many african-american entertainers, including The Jackson five, and performed in comedy sketches. The flip Wilson Show aired through 1974, generating high ratings and popularity among viewers and winning strong critical acclaim, with an unprecedented 11 emmy award nominations during its run, winning two. Wilson also won a Golden Globe award for best actor in a Television Series.

8. steve Harvey 1957 –

6. Dave Chapelle 1973

In addition to having a very funny show, “The steve Harvey show,” Harvey remains the best dressed out of all the comedians. his bio: broderick Steven “Steve” harvey is an actor, comedian, entertainer, and radio personality. he is best known as the star of the Wb sitcom The Steve harvey Show, and as one of the four comedians featured in the Spike Lee film The original kings of Comedy. Currently, he is the host of The Steve harvey Morning Show, a nationally syndicated radio program. he is also the author of act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man: What Men Really Think about Love, Relationships, intimacy, and Commitment, which was released in March 2009. he began doing stand-up comedy in the mid-1980s, and was a finalist in Second annual Johnnie Walker national Comedy Search in 1989, eventually leading to a long stint as host of it’s Showtime at the apollo, succeeding Mark Curry in that role. his success as a stand-up comedian led to a starring role on the abC show Me and the boys in 1994. he would later star on the Wb network show, The Steve harvey Show, which ran from 1996 to 2002.

Dave Chappelle is a very talented comedian and writer. his bio: david “dave” Chappelle is a comedian, screenwriter, television/film producer and actor. in 2003, he became widely known for his popular sketch comedy television series, Chappelle’s Show. Comedy Central ranked him forty-third in its list of the 100 greatest s t a n d - u p comedians. in 2003, Chappelle introduced his own weekly sketch comedy show on Comedy Central called Chappelle’s Show. The show parodied many aspects of american culture including racial stereotypes, politics and pop culture. along with comedy skits, the show also featured musical performances by mostly hip-hop and soul artists. Chappelle’s pointed social and political commentary quickly helped the show garner critical and commercial success as well as controversy. Chappelle received two emmy nominations for the show.

7. Flip Wilson 1933 – 1998 I’m sure many of you are saying, “Flip Wilson?” “Who is that?” Well, Flip Wilson was the very first black comedian with a very successful television show. his bio: Clerow Wilson Jr., known professionally as flip Wilson, was an american comedian and actor. Time magazine featured his image on their cover and named him “Tv’s first black superstar”. his outgoing personality and funny stories made him very popular; he was even asked to tour military bases to cheer up other servicemen.

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5. Redd Foxx 1922-1991 Funny comedian with a hit TV show, “sanford and son”, which ranks in the top ten as one of the funniest TV shows ever. his bio: John elroy Sanford better known by his stage name Redd foxx, was a comedian and actor, best known for his starring role on the sitcom Sanford and Son. foxx gained notoriety with his nightclub act (considered by the standards of the time to be raunchy). his standup performances were later released as “party” albums and became very popular. he was also one of the first black comics to play to white audiences on the Las vegas Strip. foxx used his starring role on Sanford and Son to help get jobs

June 2010

BlackTopTens.com

Top Ten Lists Featuring African Americans for his friends such as LaWanda page, Slappy White, Gregory Sierra, and noriyuki “pat” Morita. foxx appeared to be making a comeback with the 1991 series The Royal family, in which he co-starred with his long-time friend della Reese. on october 11, 1991, had a heart attack and never r e g a i n e d consciousness. he was 68 years old. 4. martin lawrence 1965 – The more I watch reruns of “ martin,” the more I realize how funny and talented martin lawrence really is. his bio: Martin fitzgerald Lawrence is an actor, comedian, director, and producer. he came to fame during the 1990s, establishing a hollywood career as a leading actor. Lawrence has acted in numerous movie roles and starred in his own television

June 2010

Top 10 Comedians

series, Martin, which ran from 1992 to 1997. Martin Lawrence was born in West Germany. executives at Columbia TriStar Television saw Martin’s performance on Star Search and offered him the role of “Maurice” on the television sitcom What’s happening now!!; this was his first acting job. upon cancellation of that show, Lawrence found bit parts in various films and television roles. his breakthrough role was as Cee in the Spike Lee film do the Right Thing. other roles followed in films such as the house party series and the eddie Murphy vehicle boomerang. during this period, entertainment mogul Russell Simmons selected him to host the groundbreaking series def Comedy Jam on hbo. def Comedy Jam gave many comedians (including Chris Tucker, dave Chappelle, bernie Mac and Cedric the entertainer) mainstream exposure. 3. eddie murphy 1961 – Without a doubt one of the most talented and funniest comedians to ever appear on screen. his bio: edward Regan “eddie” Murphy (born april 3, 1961) is an actor, voice actor, film director, producer, comedian and singer. he is the second-highest grossing actor in motion picture history. he was a regular cast member

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on Saturday night Live from 1980 to 1984, and has worked as a stand-up comedian. he was ranked #10 on Comedy Central’s list of the 100 Greatest Stand-ups of all Time. he has received Golden Globe award nominations for best actor in a comedy or musical for his performances in beverly hills Cop, beverly hills Cop ii, beverly hills Cop iii, Trading places, and The nutty professor. in 2007, he won the Golden Globe for best Supporting actor for his portrayal of soul singer James “Thunder” early in dreamgirls, and received a nomination for the academy award for best Supporting actor for the same role. Murphy is expected to begin work on beverly hills Cop iv sometime in the near future. 2. Bill Cosby 1937 – one of the most successful stars in the entertainment industry, Bill Cosby proved that he could be successful without using vulgarity. his bio: William henry “bill” Cosby,

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r. Make you dance is doing again. Since 2007 we’ve been on the floor with the “Cupid Shuffle”, now here comes another smash hit “do My Ladies Run this party”. Listening to this songs can’t be done in the car because you might just want to start dancing. This song is up beat and has a clap and a bounce in it like no other. "i don't want to be the next Chris brown, i'm not the next omarion or the next usher," says the Lafayette, Louisiana native. "i'm Cupid. i'm the guy that comes on the stage and yells and screams and sings and performs and sweats, i'm the guy that brings the fun to kill the monotony of all the bad stuff that's going on these days." Cupid's breakthrough first single, "Cupid Shuffle," has already sparked a nationwide sensation, with everyone taking to the floor to do the brand new dance that's sure to be swinging across america all summer long. Within weeks of the track's early 2007 release, literally hundreds of videos appeared online featuring Cupid lovers of all stripes - boys and girls, moms and dads, even one-eyed grannies - showing off their shuffle. "i'm not stopping until i get the president to do the Shuffle," Cupid laughs, but the drive and determination he's shown thus far suggests he's only halfjoking. born bryson bernard, Cupid discovered a passion for music in the church where his father served as pastor, singing in choir and learning piano at 15. Like any red-blooded american teenager, he was also deeply interested in sports, playing high school football and ultimately receiving a track-and-field scholarship to university of Louisiana @ Lafayette. Though he was a valued member of the school's Ragin' Cajun Track Team, Cupid soon decided that music was his truest passion. he left the squad and formed a vocal group with a few friends, dubbing it fasho! The group - which later changed its name to fifth element - became a local favorite, performing at fraternity/sorority parties as well as talent shows throughout the region. alas, personal and musical differences split the group apart and Cupid embarked on his solo journey. "i decided to go off on my own," he says, "i just felt like things weren't moving fast enough." it was around this time that the gifted young

performer received the angelic moniker by which he is now known. as he embarked on his solo career, his set was consistently highlighted by his show-stopping rendition of 112's 1996 hit, "Cupid." "people that didn't know my name, they'd say, 'That's the guy that sings 'Cupid,'" he recalls. "before long, people were just saying, 'hey Cupid…" and it kinda stuck. "nobody calls me bryson anymore," Cupid adds with a laugh. "Sometime i hear it and i don't even answer, i've got to stop and remember my real name." Working the talent show circuit honed Cupid's considerable vocal chops and stage presence. he soon began writing his own material, combining his love of R&b with the multitude of varied hiphop sounds that were rocking the region. "Lafayette is such a big melting pot," he says. "you got the screw coming from Texas, the bounce and party music of new orleans, the krunk in atlanta. i heard all of that and i wanted to blend those flavors into one. When you put all these things together, it's a down South R&b movement." With its high-energy new orleans bounce beat, Cupid's self-released first single, "do ya Thang," became one of 2001's biggest regional hits, leading to the release of his self-titled debut Cd in early 2002. he continued to perform nightly, singing anywhere and everywhere he could, from opening for such blues legends as bobby blue bland and Lee Williams, to performing at talent shows, birthday parties, weddings, funerals, "anywhere they needed somebody to sing." "i was touching so many families, that without even knowing it, i was building up my fanbase," he says. "When you sing for somebody's grandfather, they appreciate you for it and then support your music when it comes out." Cupid's second self-released album, 2005's "The kinG of doWn SouTh R&b" - which included another regional smash in "Swing around The Rosey" - saw him adding elements of country and blues to his musical gumbo, resulting in a further widening of his already diverse audience. With his inimitable sound winning over music lovers young and old, the album saw Cupid gaining airplay throughout the region, from florida to Texas. Which brings us to January 2007, as Cupid

was ready to release his third album "TiMe foR a ChanGe." Mere days before putting the Cd out, he got the call inviting him to sign with atlantic Records - for six decades, the home to the most innovative, compelling, and enduring artists in soul and R&b. Cupid immediately caught a flight to Los angeles and set to work on what would become his major-label debut, "TiMe foR a ChanGe." The work ethic he'd learned running his own business immediately came to the fore, with five new tracks recorded in his first four days in studio. "When you're used to paying for it our your own pocket," he notes, "you learn to conserve time." Given the opportunity to spread his wings, Cupid chose to team up with a variety of gifted producers, including Rich Skillz (a recent Grammy award-recipient for his work on Ludacris' smash, "ultimate Satisfaction"), dewayne Swan, the Labased team, Stereotypes (Marques houston, neyo, keyshia Cole), and his longtime friend/collaborator brandon nezey - aka Mr. phat. "My brain is only so big and i only have so many ideas," Cupid humbly admits. "i can only think so far. Working with these guys, they're always saying, 'Check this out.' i'm real open to working with such talented guys. it was great to be able to learn from a lot of great people." With his boundless creativity and equally unlimited spirit, Cupid wants nothing less than to touch as many people as possible. To achieve that goal, this superstar-in-the-making refuses to get caught in the overly-formatted pigeonhole that traps so many of today's artists. "i don't want to be 'neo-soul' or 'classic R&b' or anything like that," Cupid says. "i'm just a musician that makes a lot of fun music. i never want to close the door on anything. people ask me, 'What's 'Cupid Shuffle,' is it R&b, is it pop?' i'm like, 'it's just a good song.' When you're dancing to it, you don't say, 'hmm, is this blues? is this R&b? is this for the old or is this for the young?' no, it's just a good song. and at the end of the day, that's all that matters."

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Top Ten Lists Featuring African Americans Jr. (born July 12, 1937) is a comedian, actor, author, television producer, musician and activist. a veteran stand-up performer, he got his start at various clubs, and then landed a starring role in the 1960s action show, i Spy. he later starred in his own series, The bill Cosby Show, in 1969. he was one of the major characters on the children’s television show, The electric Company, for its first two seasons, and created the humorous educational cartoon series, fat albert and the Cosby kids, about a group of young friends growing up in the city. Cosby has also acted in a number of films. during the 1980s, Cosby produced and starred in what is considered to be one of the decade’s defining sitcoms, The Cosby Show, which aired eight seasons from 1984 to 1992, and is still seen in syndication. The sitcom highlighted the experiences and growth of an upper-middle-class african american family. he also produced the hit sitcom, a different World, which became second to The Cosby Show in ratings. in the 1990s, he starred in Cosby, which aired from 1996 to 2000, and during the show’s last two seasons, hosted kids Say the darndest Things. his good-natured, fatherly image has made him a popular personality and garnered

Top 10 Comedians

him the nickname of “america’s dad”. 1. Richard pryor 1940 – 2005 Richard pryor is the funniest comedian I have ever seen. I was fortunate to see pryor perform live twice. And I must say the experience is something I will never forget. pryor had the audience laughing non-stop for 90 minutes. As I looked around, people in the audience, myself included, were bent over clutching their stomachs from pryor’s jokes and facial expressions; while others were wiping tears from their eyes from laughing so hard. Richard pryor is without a doubt the funniest comedian that ever lived. his bio: Richard franklin Lennox Thomas pryor iii (december 1, 1940 – december 10, 2005) was a stand-up comedian, actor, and writer. pryor was known for uncompromising examinations of racism and topical contemporary issues, which employed colorful, vulgar, and profane language and racial epithets. he reached a broad audience with his keen observations and storytelling style. he is widely regarded as one of the most important stand-up comedians ever. Jerry Seinfeld called

pryor “The picasso of our profession”; bob newhart has called pryor “the seminal comedian of the last 50 years.” his body of work includes the concert movies and recordings Richard pryor: Live and Smokin’ (1971), That “n’s” Crazy (1974), is it Something i Said? (1975), bicentennial “n” (1976), Richard pryor: Live in Concert (1979), Richard pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip (1982), and Richard pryor: here and now (1983). he also starred in numerous films as an actor such as Superman iii (1983) but was usually in comedies such as Silver Streak (1976), but occasionally in dramatic roles, such as paul Schrader’s film blue Collar (1978). he collaborated on many projects with actor Gene Wilder. pryor won an emmy award in 1973, and five Grammy awards in 1974, 1975, 1976, 1981, and 1982. in 1974, he also won two american academy of humor awards and the Writers Guild of america award. in 2004, pryor was voted #1 on Comedy Central’s list of the 100 Greatest Stand-ups of all Time. on december 10, 2005, pryor suffered a cardiac arrest in encino, California. he was taken to a local hospital after his wife’s attempts to resuscitate him failed. he was pronounced dead at 7:58 aM. his widow Jennifer was quoted as saying, “at the end, there was a smile on his face.”

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SPOTLIGHT Real Men Cook dallas celebrates its 11th year as the largest urban fathers day family celebration in dallas on June 20, 2010 form 3-6 pm at Gilley’s/palladium downtown dallas 1135 South Lamar in dallas with the support of seven local restaurants and/or food industry businesses, buttons (fort Worth), brooklyn Jazz Café (dallas), off the bone (dallas), Catfish blues (dallas), Sankofa kafe and bar (deep ellum dallas), po Melvins (irving), village Tea (dallas) Joy foods, i n c / S p r a z z o s (Worldwide/dallas based) and leading the cooks will be honorary RMC Chair Mayor pro Tem dwaine R. Caraway, celebrity cook, CbS 11 emmy awarding winning on air personality Steven pickett and celebrity cook, Gromer Jeffers, dallas Morning news Columnist. “for this year’s fathers day event, we would like to honor and congratulate the local business owners and celebrity chefs who have joined us to showcase our 11th year,, “says Real Men Cook Manager Terry allen, “because of the local restaurants participation, we have given our event a theme, the aptly named Taste of the South as each restaurant and celebrity cook will showcase a sampling of their southern influenced menus. We will go as far south as haiti to bring the best southern food offerings ot the palate.” Celebrity Cook, Steven pickett, CbS 11, will be serving his my world famous “Chicken adobo”, a native filipino delicacy, while celebrity cook,

June 2010

REAL MEN COOK LAUNCHES ITS RETURN TO DALLAS WITH THE SUPPORT OF LOCAL DALLAS/FORT WORTH RESTAURANTS AND BUSINESSES.

Gromer Jeffers, dallas Morning news will prepare a very special seafood tasting that he refuses to disclose until the day of the event. haitian Chef, Ron d u p r a t , featured bravo Tv Season 6 Top Chef of Las vegas will bring his haitian duck recipe tasting as well. our returning Mistress of Ceremonies is Starlene Stringer, media personality, on air radio host and bestselling author. Scheduled Celebrity Tasters include Chef Tiffany derry, bravo Tv Season 8 Top Chef of dC, Chef Cassondra armstrong, american heart association’s power-toend Stroke ambassador, Cheryl Smith, Reporters Roundtable, Wendy Schofield, on air host and Ceo of posh images, vicki Meek, national visual artist and SdCC Manager, Radio diva Sister Sondra, veteran stage and screen actress, irma p. hall, anne Marie Weiss, dfW international, Teresa Taylor Gilbert,ntheknow.com, Miss Community dianne Gibson and media icon and veteran, Rochelle brown. Real Men Cook dallas Taste Sponsors are palladium/Gilleys of dallas and kG fashion Superstores, inc. Real Men Cook® (RMC) was established in Chicago in 1990. over the last 20 years, RMC has

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grown to become one of the largest family celebrations in the country. Real Men Charities, inc. is the presenting nonprofit of Real men Cook with a mission to build healthier families and communities. We share knowledge, food and raise critical funds for non-profit organizations that support the father’s day celebration and food tasting event and the RMC mission, which includes providing needed services to diverse communities. RMC events have been embraced in 15 uS cities, and abroad to the bahamas, africa, London and paris. The benefiting charity partner is the March of dimes Texas who will receive a portion of designated pre -event ticket sales generated from their website. RMC’s mission is to positively impact family and community relationships by providing opportunities which empower men to be dedicated fathers to their families and participate in giving back to their communities by being involved for the good of all communities, families, and youth. for more information about being a cook, vendor or purchasing tickets, please access www.realmencook.com or call 214.3766530. Tickets can be purchased online at www.realmencook.com or at each participating restaurant. Real Men Charities, inc. is a registered non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, expanding the spirit of Real Men Cook year-round and is an advocate for the social, mental and physical health of families.

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