NEW BLOG OUTSTAGN INFO

HEY  OUTTOWNERS!!!


Go to my new blog OUTSTAGN at http://outstagin.blogspot.com/

OUT 1151--OUTTOWN SALUTATIONS July 5, 2012

HEY OUTTOWNERS......

THE TIME HAS COME......

TO BE TOWNED…ONE LAST TIME……….

YOURS TRULY, Ma'at Atkins will be celebrating his bday July 6. Come hang with me this Friday at Exo Nightclub in Midtown St Louis!  (After 11 p.m.)

HAPPY 7th BDAY OUTTOWN!

OUTTOWNERS, this has been a journey and I have made it to the finish line—and on to the next one. After seven years of posting, I have decided to depart from the weekly regimen of  the blog and thought it would be fitting to end OUTTOWN exactly the way I began it—with one long paragraph and the very first picture  posted from the very first one on July 5, 2005 (PICTURED YOURS TRULY with actress Dawnn Lewis at the Joe Torry Celebrity Basketball Challenge held at one of the hotels in downtown St Louis--the venue slips me). Throughout the years, OUTTOWN has traveled within the St Louis area as well as beyond  (Los Angeles, Chicago) taking pics and covering special celebrity events, concerts, red carpet premieres, private events, fashion shows, my own events, promoters events, rallies, parades, and everyday happenings. I have also chronicled news stories that had a  Midwest point of view based on people who were born, raised, lived, and traveled in the STL/Midwest area. After more than 1,100 blog entries, and hundreds of thousands of pics uploaded and taken, I must say that OUTTOWN has been one of the pillar blogsites in the Midwest that has influenced many news and photo bloggers especially in the STL area (and survived many of the ones that came after OUTTOWN). It has been nominated for awards, been scorned, criticized, and called to the lions den  for  “going too far”, but as I always say, “You’re not doing your job unless your pissing someone off.” LOL  I created OUTTOWN because of a necessity to continue my journalism  career after my freelance gig at  the now defunct West End Word ended in 2005. Also, to continue the countless contacts I accumulated in my career prior to my writing with the newspaper. For those who wonder still, what does OUTTOWN mean? Well, it stands for many things: Its short for Out On The Town, Out of Town, and, my fave, a play on singer Prince’s song, “Uptown.” (A few even wondered if it meant OUT as in “OUT” LOL)  In the early walking steps of the blog (which was called The Haps On the Town) it was more of a journal entry with no pics (regular pics started more in 2006)and many proofing issues, but as ego says, “even my errors were correct.” LOL  But after honing it, building it with many ideas that stuck and faded and branding it, I managed to create blog that was informative, entertaining, funny and truthful and making sure that people who didn’t have a voice or outlet to be spotlighted be given light. Every week, it received on average 1,000 hits a week from stats with its peak at over 6,000 hits a week when I covered the fashions at one of Nelly’s Black and White Ball and KMJM personality Tammie Holland in 2009 (who I made one of the best dressed) gave my blog a shout out over the air and caused massive drive to my blog (Much love Tammie!). And speaking of population, my blog is read not only in the United States but also in Europe and some parts of Africa based on the stat sheets. I’ve also become a fixture with many STL event promoters and visiting promoters who relied on my blog to get the word out of their event  and cover them for the blog. Although I have many “closet “ readers than commenters, I felt that the blog was a confluence  and influence within people’s reading time especially if  I wrote something that was controversial or posted a  pic that was questionable (You better believe I was either inboxed, texted or voice mailed about it. LOL.) But in the journalism/media game, that is a compliment, LOL. Yet, the challenge always was, how long can I keep the blog going? Or, in my words, “How long will I have my ‘nuff?” I think it started in 2011 as  people mostly associated   me as  being a well dressed picture guy at events and/or a blogger who take pics. I mean, don’t get me wrong, the perks are   great being able to get access to events to take pics, but before I posted blogs yet alone became journalist I was a poet. For those who remember, back in the mid 1990s and early 2000s I was a fixture on the STL poetry open mic scene, even created a slam called Wordwar with the late attorney poet Sheryl Johnson at the now defunct Hatshepsut Art Gallery on 12^th and Tucker in downtown St Louis. I also wrote, directed and stage managed stageplays that I began in the late 1990s. I have been nominated for a Regional Emmy Award for my journalism.  Additionally, I have dabbled in event producing, one in particular that  is dear to me, Mista Couture, a mens style contest that gives those a platform that is void in the STL fashion community. So, I decided this year that it was time to regroup and refocus on other aspects of my talents and rebrand myself.. It was also becoming very challenging to continue the weekly grind pace of attending events and chronicle the entertainment news and posting every Tuesday and Thursday ir any day close to those deadline days. So on January 1, I decided this year would be the last for OUTTOWN and end it on the 7^th year of its existence (July 5) with the number 7 is the number of completion coming full circle, pun intended.  I want to now venture into more features on movers and shakers in the Midwest as well as across the country and reviews on fashion, theater and concerts and entertainment commentary. Thus, my new blog OUTSTAGN starting Thursday, July 12 which will be more of a at random blog than a deadlined blog. I will still  have the OUTTOWN  faves still posted on Thursdays such as PROMOCIALITES, WORDZ TO THE WHYZ,  BLIND DISHZ and EVENTZ  but all the newsy stuff will be no longer posted which was burning me out finding news stories from the ILLI MO (Illinois/.Missouri) perspective. I am very excited about this newest venture and hope that you continue being an OUTTOWNER because without your support there would not have been a completion. So, with that said, I would like to end this saying thank you for being loyal and supportive reading what I had to post these seven years. Trust me, it hasn’t been easy, It has been many times when I wanted to quit, or postpone the blog because of life’s issues but I kept tunneled in the mission to inform the community—the OUTTOWNERS. It’s refreshing and rejuvenating when people say, “ I still read your blog.” It tells me that my work is relevant in the community and if you know St Louis, that is not an easy thing to do! From this experience, I have grown as a writer and a person knowing my strengths, my limits and my possibilities.. But as the late poet James Baldwin said, “Writing is like shitting bricks,” and I will add that even after it’s written you may not get relief ! LOL

Until next week my new OUTSTAGRS!

On Thursday, July 12, OUTTOWN will spinoff to a new blog called OUTSTAGN, giving a stage (or platform) to mover and shakers in the arts and entertainment in the STL area (and “out of town”) by ways of interviews and features. It also will focus on recaps and reviews of fashion and style as seen at red carpeted, regular club events, and fashion shows. Lastly, in our theme of stages, we will review live theater, and concerts.

It will be compiled at random.

And don’t worry, we will still have the OUTTOWN faves such as BLIND DISHZ, BLIND PICZ, PROMOCIALITES, BDAZEs and EVENTZ that will likely post every Thursday as UPSTAGE BITZ, but  the weekly compilations of top stories in the Midwest will be eliminated.

If you are a singer, actor, event producer, painter, sculptor, fashion designer, poet, film director, or businessman  or if you know anyone who's the aforementioned, and you  or that person would like to be featured on OUTSTAGN send us a email to maatspear@yahoo.com!

Check out our contestants for the 4th  MISTA COUTURE STYLE CONTEST,and vote your choice of who you think should win! Go to http://maatology.blogspot.com/2012/07/meet-first-round-contestants-for-4th.html

 If your interested in being a contestant or escort, email manfashionshow@yahoo.com before July 1, 2012 for details!

Celebrate Saint Louis Summer Concerts

Friday, July 13 10:00a

at Soldiers Memorial Park, St Louis, MO

The Summer Concerts provide free national musical entertainment.

50,000 attendees expected.

** Estimated start time -- Please confirm **

 Event Website

The 2012 Celebrate St. Louis Summer Concerts, presented by the Fair Saint Louis Foundation, will bring the party home with live concerts in the heart of downtown St. Louis. Join us for two weekends of FREE entertainment — LIVE FROM SOLDIERS MEMORIAL. This July’s line-up that will rock St. Louis includes:

NEON TREES

Friday, July 13

Double-platinum smash single “Animal” propelled Neon Trees into fame in 2010, and ever since the band has been making fun, yet lyrically profound, music. Lead vocalist and keyboardist Tyler Glenn came together with the other three members of the band eight years ago in Provo, Utah, where they still call home. They’re set to rock the Budweiser Main Stage and kick off the Celebrate St. Louis Summer Concerts at Soldiers’ Memorial on Friday, July 13 at 9 p.m.

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD

Saturday, July 14

Michael Franti first formed the group Spearhead in the mid 90s, merging his positive and socially conscious attitude with his love for music to create roots and reggae tracks with powerful themes. Their most recent endeavor is the uplifting “The Sound of Sunshine,” released in 2010 and reaffirming Franti’s talent for connecting with fans. Michael Franti and Spearhead will do just that on the Budweiser Main Stage at Soldiers’ Memorial on Saturday, July 14 at 9 p.m.

Opening for Michael Franti at 8 p.m. is Erin McCarley.

THE OFFSPRING

Friday, July 20

The Offspring continue to receive broad-based acclaim from alternative and album rock fans. Hits including “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)” and “Hit That,” as well as several tours have secured their place as a top punk rock band. Their latest single, “Days Go By,” was released this year and is the precursor of their next album of the same name, set for release in late June. The Offspring will rock the Budweiser Main Stage at Soldiers Memorial on Friday, July 20 at 9 p.m.

NELLY

Saturday, July 21

Hometown hero Cornell “Nelly” Haynes is a figure familiar to many St. Louisans– and to the world. The metro area and University City native is the second highest selling hip hop artist of all time, and since his groundbreaking debut album Country Grammar he has received three Grammys and three American Music Awards, with four number one albums and five number one singles hitting the charts. Beyond music, Nelly has also showcased his acting ability in blockbuster “The Longest Yard,” owns two clothing companies, his own record label, and operates two charity nonprofits. Nelly will return to his roots on Saturday, July 21 at Soldiers Memorial at 8 p.m.

Nelly is also partnering with Fair Saint Louis to give local unsigned bands the chance to perform on the Budweiser Main Stage on July 4, 6, or 7. A grand prize winner will receive 10 hours of recording time at Vatterott College ex’treme Institute by Nelly­- St. Louis. Check out more details and info on how to submit your music video here!

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Ledisi will perform July 13 at the Pageant.

Eric Benet is also on the bill.

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Rock singer Fiona Apple heads to the Peabody Opera House July 14.

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The Summer Music Festival starring Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Patti LaBelle is July 15 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater. Also on the bill are the O'Jays, Babyface and Tank.

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Rock group O.A.R. will perform at the Fox Theatre. July 19.

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Singer Lenny Williams is at the Ambassador . July 21.

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The Indigo Girls will perform July 21 at the Pageant.

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Javier Mendoza's CD release party for his "Vida, Trabajo, Amor" project is July 24 at the Sheldon Concert Hall.

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Grammy Award winning rock group Train performs at the Peabody Opera House July 29.

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Comedian/radio personality/game show host Steve Harvey will perform at Chaifetz Arena on July 27.

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 Grammy Award nominated rapper/singer Nicki Minaj will perform at the Peabody Opera House July 31.

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Zac Brown Band will perform Aug. 1 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater.

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Comedian Tracy Morgan from "30 Rock" returns to St. Louis with a concert Aug. 3 at Lumiere Place Casino for two

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Diamond Rio and Jo Dee Messina are joining forces for a Vatterott College benefit taking place Aug. 4 at the Pageant.

Erin Bode is also on the bill.

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House Party Tour 2012 featuring Whodini is at 7 p.m. Aug. 4 at the Ambassador.

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Summerland 2012 with Everclear, Sugar Ray, Gin Blossoms, Lit and Marcy Playground is at 7 p.m. Aug. 7 at the Family Arena.

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Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators is at the Pageant with a concert at 8 p.m. Aug. 8.

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Wanda Jackson will perform. Aug. 11 at Blueberry Hill's Duck Room.

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 The Smooth Jazz Cruise presents David Sanborn and Brian Culbertson,  Aug. 23 at the Pageant.

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Grammy Award winning country singer Lyle Lovett will perform Aug. 25 at the Peabody Opera House.

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Phish will perform at the Chaifetz Arena Aug 28

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BLIND PICZ. What location is this in  the St Louis area?

BLIND DISHZ. Which STL star couple was recently spotted gettin their work out on at Golds Gym in Florrisant?

HINT 1. He is a veteran event promoter that holds a monthly contest at a club in Midtown St Louis

HINT 2. His promotions company name's initials  spell out something "influential"

HINT 3. He has the same last name as an old school comedian who starred in movies with Eddie Murphy, Chris Tucker and Kevin Hart.

HINT 4. His lady shares the same name as an "ATL" singer who started her career in the mid 1990s and who was signed under Queen Latifah.

PRO-MO-CIAL-ITES (July 1-7) Which STL mover and shakers got it in this week on the promotions of their events and being on the scene?

Ashley Salazaar. This model/MMA fighter beauty is on a mission these days. She recently won Miss June Social for Playboy Magazine and was on promotions blitz promoitng her new title on local radio stations such as 105.7 The Point . The Notice Me Award winner is also traveling to NYC this Saturday to do a photo shoot for Spicy Magazine. She is also in another competition to be in Playboy South Africa and is seeking people to vote for her (SEE NEW ONGOING BITZ BELOW) 

Mocha Latte. The Queen of Promotions is back at it again this week .  Coming off of being scene at the Jagged Edge concert at the Ambassador, the Notice Me Award winner hosted a Pre 4^th of July Party at The Loft, \two weekly events on Wednesday in succession of each other—Sound Bar’s Happy Hour  then sWine N Dine Wednesday at The Inspot Dessert Lounge (SEE NEW ONGOING BITZ), her monthly Thursday poetry showcase Got Lyrics at Inspot and her popular mainstay Select Saturdays at The Loft.

Wop Wop.  This event promoter has done many concerts with some of todays national hip-hop acts co promoting with Jonathan Burns of JB.  On Thursdays he puts on Free Thursdays at Lavish, Burns’ venue and this Friday, his promotions team, Wop Wop Wow Promotions,  promotes on their own with rapper Juvenille with a free concert at The Ambassador. It is also his bday weekend.

Rcb MC and Vega. This new jack duo is doing double duty in the club and mixtape scene. Rcb Mc is currently promoting his new mixtape “Bachelor Party: with DJ Noize and this Friday he hosts a first Friday at Exo Nightclub (and where YOURS TRULY will host a bday party) . This Friday, Vega will be celebrating his bday with a Miami Vice Theme. And Saturday, Rcb, and his business partner Vega will hold down Swagger Saturdays at the Inspot.

Why wasnt a surprise that Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise split? Why do people say its hot outside when its summer time? Why are people makin it a big deal with singer Frank Ocean came out?


AT THE BET AWARDS. Why were there so many uncensored versions of rap songs being performed? Why was Rick Ross lip synching? Why was Souljah Boy crying uncontrollably during the Whitney tribute? Why did it look like Brandy was angry when she sang during the Whitney Tribute? Why did Kevin Hart win for Best Actor? Why did it seem as though host Samuel L Jackson didnt want to be there? Why did it look like Kim Kardashian was so out of place sitting with Kanye? Why didnt Yolanda sing a lead part in the gospel segemnt with Sunday Best acts Amber Bullock, Ylanla Crawley and Jessica Reedy? And why wasnt Drake or Rihanna there? Why was the Donna Summer tribute so short with Chante Moore? And why did it seem as though BET gave Jay Z, Beyonce and Kanye more screen time while they were in the audience than the people who were on stage?

HAPPY STL CANCERians BDAZES (July 1-July 7) Comedian Arvin Mitchell (PICTURED), TV personality Gilberto Pinella, music producer James Glasco, activist Erise Williams, dee-jay Sir Thurl, fashion designer Shan Keith, media producer Patrick Gallagher, promoters Wop Wop and  Ashley Puryear and YOURS TRULY, Ma’at Atkins

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Rapper Juvenile performs for free July 6 at the Ambassador.

Doors are at 8 p.m. KB Snacks is sponsoring the concert, which is also a Wop Wop Wow Birthday Bash.

For more information call 314-532-1755 or 314-367-2757.

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Murphy Lee LIVE AT Plush Saint Louis JULY 7TH
 CLEAR 10 VODKA PRESENTS: Murphy Lee Live and Unplugged at PLUSH 3224 Locust. Doors Open at 9pm | special invite only VIP tasting at 8pm
Tickets $10 in Avd | $15 door | $20 VIP | Bottle Service $77

This event will sell out. Come join DELUX Magazine and Murphy Lee for one of the most anticipated show since Home Nightclub where we did over 1700 in numbers... dont believe me?

http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=nba3YgVxmRA

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CICKTAILS N COUTURE FASHION SHOW

COCKTAILS

DATE: July 8th,2012 LOCATION: Desserts on the Boulevard 3949 Lindell Boulevard, Saint Louis, MO 63108 ATTIRE: Semi-Formal TICKETS: Advanced $25 Door $30 PURCHASE: Tickets can be bought at Desserts on the Boulevard • Primary Fundraiser for TNM Media Corp. • Its function is to sponsor two scholarships (Arts & Entertainment Types) • Function for the 2012 Cocktails & Couture Fashion Show is to showcase Talent! https://www.facebook.com/pages/TNM/143972078999929 For other inquiries write on the event page or email jeree_jetadore@yahoo.com

NEW ONGOING BITZ

AUDITION BITZ

You can to win a trip to New York City, an appearance on BET’s “106 & Park” for “Sparkle Singing Challenge,”

The St. Louis audition is July 14 at the NASCAR SpeedPark in St. Louis Mills.

Registration is at noon July 14, followed by the contest from 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

Amateur singers between the ages of 13-40 should sing a 60-second a capella version of either “Celebrate” or “Something He Can Feel.”

Clips from the songs, official rules and more information about the contest, can be found at www.myspace.com/sparkle.

Email sparklesingingchallengeSTL@gmail.com pre-register or call 314-266-1100 for any questions or additional info.

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Spoonful of Honey Season 2 Auditions at Regional Arts Commission 11 am to 5 p.m.

WIFETIME CHARACTER BREAKDOWN.

Breakdown

Wille - Early 30's. An earnest, hard working young man, faithful to his wife of 10 years. Fed up with his unadventuresome life, he joins a Pan-African organization and decides that he wants to take a "Second Wife", in the tradition of his African ancestors.

Irma - Early 30's. Willie's materialstic wife. A childless housewife, who pay for not taking an interest in her husband's outside activities.

Kweli - 30's. The clever, supremely chauvinistic founder of the Center for Black Enlightenment, he has three wives and believes all men should practice polygamy.

Nwanyeruwa - 20. A naive, softly manipulative young girl, very much involved with the Center and other fads, who wants to become Willie's second wife.

Clytie - Irma's mother. A divorcee in her 50's, she's having the time of her life, but she slows down long enough to help her daughter save her marriage.

Emile - A handsome French West Indian, every woman's dream man, he has a special fondness for Irma.

Amina - 30's. Kweli's practical first wife. 

Mbili - 25. Kweli's militaristic second wife.

Jua - 20. Kweli's youngest and pregnant third wife.

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HELP BITZ 

Hello friends / fans do not forget to vote every day for the beautiful Ashley Salazar to be in Playboy South Africahttp://www.facebook.com/playboysouthafrica?sk=app_332484066805691

only enters the site and search their name Ashley Salazar and click on the arrow. Thank you

CLUB/;NIGHTLIFE BITZ

FUNNY FIRST SUNDAY with Arvin Mitchell  at BlueBerry Hill

TICKETS $10 ADVANCE $15 AT THE DOOR ADVANCE CALL

(314)599-0705 Princeton Dew

Doors Open @7:00 Showtime 8:00

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ALL OUT, EnCrowd, Klosed Circle, & Next Level Presents...

$1 Wednesdays @ THE AMBASSADOR(9800 Halls Ferry Rd.)!

Snapbacks & Tattoos Party!

$1 Admission For Everybody ALL NIGHT!

$1 Long Islands, $1 Martinis, & $1 Blue MFs 'Til 10pm!

$1 Pool Tables!

Doors Open At 9pm!

Hosted by T-Rell!

Co-Hosted by Killa Cam!

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Close To Famous & StarPower Marketing Present:

The PROFESSIONAL -Summer Kickoff-

+Tony "T-Luv" Davis Gentleman's Birthday Celebration

Thursday 6.28.12 @ SoHo Restaurant + Lounge (4229 Manchester)

PROFESSIONAL; a person who is expert at his or her work

Thursday June 28, 2012 at SoHo Lounge  on Manchester in the Grove Come mingle with some of the Industries Best at The Official Celebrity Summer Kickoff Event! The Gentleman's Birthday Celebration for The Professional Business Man Tony "T-Luv" Davis will be filled with VIP's so you dont want to miss this!

Gentlemen Jack *INVITE ONLY* VIP Dinner & Cocktails @ 7pm

General Admission @ 9pm

DJ JoPrima | Style Code Enforced

VIP/BOTTLE SERVICE: 314.761.7834 or closetofamous@yahoo.com

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 Ghetto Blastic presents

POLY RHYTHM NATION the newest, hippest, musically progressive-est Thursday weekly for you and yours to stop thru and groove...meet Nappy DJ Needles along with guest DJs and musicians every Thursday night at The Delmar Lounge in the U. City Loop for a weekly jam session that moves your mind, body and soul!

Beginning Thursday June 28

The Delmar Lounge

6235 Delmar

NO COVER!!

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Wop wop Wow presents Free Thursdays at Lavish

Rapper Rcb Mc hosts  every first Friday  at Exo and he has just released his first a mixtape Bachelor Party. He will have a CD release party at Inspot this Saturday ( SEE EVENTZ BELOW)

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The second installment of Lola's "Made You Look" series, featuring Full Crate & Mar with DJ Needles . every last Friday

At LOLA 500 N 14th St. St.Louis, MO | www.welovelola.com

·                                  

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Learn More About The Social: www.welovethesocial.com 

at this weekly happy hour celebration, The Social toasts to the most influential people in St.Louis, MO including local politicians, business leaders, filmmakers, artists and designers. This event takes place at Lola, one of the most see-and-be-seen venues in St.Louis | Every Friday

Shift58 + BFreeStlouis + Crown Royal + Heineken presents:

w. The Social {St.Louis} Happy Hour Series + New Connections

w. Every Friday | 5PM-8PM |

w. at Lola: 500 N 14th Street St.Louis, MO 63102

Business Professional + Summer Upscale {Requested}

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The House Party Series Featuring BJ The DJ w/special guest DJ AJ, Stress Free Fridays, Aunyae Heart and The Black Rose Band. At The Colliseum 2619 Washngtin Ave. Everybody Free til 8pm. $10 admission after 8pm.

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MUSIC BITZ

ADD: RCB MC released his new mixtape "Bachelor Party". To download it go to http://midwestmixtapes.com/2012/bachelor-party/

FOR MORE ONGOING BITZ GO TO

 http://maatology.blogspot.com/2010/03/ongoing-bitz-april-week-one.html

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UPDATE:MEET THE FIRST ROUND CONTESTANTS FOR THE 4th ANNUAL MISTA COUTURE CHARITY STYLE CONTEST!

BELOW are the FIRST ROUND CONTESTANTS in Alphabetical Order by Last Name:

UPDATE: BELOW ARE THE FINAL CONTESTANTS WHO WILL ADVANCE TO

THE SECOND ROUND AT THE SHOW SUNDAY, AUGUST 26 AT THE OLD

NORTH ST LOUIS RESTORATION GROUP BUILDING:

TO SEE YOUR FAVORITE WIN RSVP TO

to RSVP to this event go 

tohttps://www.facebook.com/events/136962019776776/

T.C. Cantley, Chicago, Illinois

Branden Cartwright, Columbia, Mo.

Brandon Chisom, St. Louis, Mo. 

Robert Hughes, St. Louis, Mo.

Draylen Jett, St. Louis, Mo. 

Karras Jordan, Atlanta, Ga.

Santana (of MoTre), St. Louis, Mo.

Deloyd Williams, Venice, Illinois

Ricky Worley, St. Louis, Mo

NOTE:  You can only vote for ONE PERSON at a time by using the comment box below (Multiple votes in the comment box WILL NOT COUNT).  You can vote as many times as you like. The deadline to vote will be SUNDAY, AUGUST 26 , 2012 at 12 PM CST. Your votes will be added with the AUDIENCE CHOICE vote the night of the show on AUGUST 26, 2012 to decide the POPULAR VOTE WINNER. 

OUT 1150--ILLI MO A&E BITZ (JUNE 28-JULY 4)

HEY OUTTOWNERS!

ITS THAT TIME AGAIN!!

TIME TO GET TOWNED!!!

BLACK MUSIC MONTH BITZ

This week we feature, the late singer Lou Rawls.

Louis Allen "Lou" Rawls (December 1, 1933^[1] – January 6, 2006) was an American soul, jazz, and blues singer. He was known for his smooth vocal style: Frank Sinatra once said that Rawls had "the classiest singing and silkiest chops in the singing game".^[2] 

Rawls was born on December 1, 1933 in Chicago and raised by his grandmother in the Ida B. Wells projects on the city's South Side. He began singing in the Greater Mount Olive Baptist Church choir at the age of seven and later sang with local groups through which he met future music starsSam Cooke, who was nearly three years older than Rawls, and Curtis Mayfield.^[3]

After graduating from Chicago's Dunbar Vocational High School, he sang briefly with Cooke in the Teenage Kings of Harmony, a local gospel group, and then with the Holy Wonders. In 1951, Rawls replaced Cooke in the Highway QC's after Cooke departed to join The Soul Stirrers in Los Angeles. Rawls was soon recruited by the Chosen Gospel Singers and himself moved to Los Angeles, where he subsequently joined the Pilgrim Travelers.^[4]

He was signed to Capitol Records in 1962, the same year he sang the soulful background vocals on the Sam Cooke recording of "Bring It On Home to Me" and "That's Where It's At," both written by Cooke.

Rawls would not have a star-making hit until he made a proper soul album, appropriately named Soulin', later that same year. The album contained his first R&B #1 single, "Love Is a Hurtin' Thing". In 1967 Rawls won his first Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, for the single "Dead End Street."

.

After leaving Capitol in 1971, Rawls joined MGM, at which juncture he released his Grammy-winning single "Natural Man"  In 1976, Rawls signed with Philadelphia International Records, where he had his greatest album success with the million-selling All Things in Time. The album produced his most successful single, "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine", which topped the R&B and Adult Contemporary charts and went to number two on the pop side, becoming Rawls' only certified million-selling single in the process.

Subsequent albums, such as 1977's When You Hear Lou, You've Heard It All yielded such hit singles as "Lady Love". Other releases in the 1970s included the classic album Sit Down And Talk To Me.

In 1980, Rawls began the "Lou Rawls Parade of Stars Telethon" which benefits the United Negro College Fund. The annual event, known since 1998 as "An Evening of Stars: A Celebration of Educational Excellence", consists of stories of successful African-American students who have benefited from and/or graduated from one of the many historically black colleges and universities who receive support from the UNCF, along with musical performances from various recording artists in support of the UNCF's and Rawls' efforts. The event has raised over US$200 million in 27 shows for the fund through 2006

In 1982, Rawls received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

On Thursday, July 12, OUTTOWN will spinoff to a new blog called OUTSTAGN, giving a stage (or platform) to mover and shakers in the arts and entertainment in the STL area (and “out of town”) by ways of interviews and features. It also will focus on recaps and reviews of fashion and style as seen at red carpeted, regular club events, and fashion shows. Lastly, in our theme of stages, we will review live theater, and concerts.

It will be compiled at random.

And don’t worry, we will still have the OUTTOWN faves such as BLIND DISHZ, BLIND PICZ, PROMOCIALITES, BDAZEs and EVENTZ that will likely post every Thursday as UPSTAGE BITZ, but  the weekly compilations of top stories in the Midwest will be eliminated.

It's that time gents for Mista Couture. We are seeking gents with style and ladies with fashion flair to be escorts for the gents. If your interested in being a contestant or escort, email manfashionshow@yahoo.com before July 1, 2012 for details!

THE BIG A&E STORY THIS WEEK IS:

 The Miami Heat (PICTURED are Chicago native Dwyane Wade, MVP Lebron James and Chris Bosh) captured the 2012 NBA Championship against Oklahoma City Thunder in grand fashion last Thursday at the American Airlines Arena in Miami in Game 5. Wade picked up his second NBA Title with the first one coveted in 2006. ABC that aired the NBA Finals had its biggest ratings since 2004 capturing close to 19 million viewers of a Game 5 broadcast.

 On Monday, an estimated 400,000 people filled the streets of Miami for the Heat championship parade, and then 15,000 more got into the arena afterward for a long, loud reception for the NBA's new kings.

Chicago native Dwyane Wade did something different. In a nod to his preferred postgame fashion style throughout the playoffs, he emerged with a pair of faux eyeglasses and slipped the frames onto the neck of the trophy. 

During the parade, players and coaches were on double-decker buses with friends and family, most of them taking photos and video of the crowd. Other Heat staff were on flatbed trucks, as confetti fell and horns blared every step of the way. Wade cradled the championship trophy in his arms for much of the ride.

"I appreciate all our fans for sticking with us," said the now two-time NBA champion Wade, adding, "Best fans in the world."

And then the party moved inside pf the American Airlines Arena with a similar setup to the event that welcomed James and Bosh to Miami to play alongside Wade in July 2010. Music blared for nearly an hour as fans danced for joy, before the arena went dark briefly – and the trophy was sneaked onto the stage.

For nearly 90 minutes afterward, the Heat relived so many aspects of the season.

Wade is  only one of two players from Miami's 2006 championship club.

In related news, President Obama applauded the NBA Champion Miami Heat during a fundraising speech Tuesday night.

So the question now is can The Heat bring the heat again next year? Only the flicker of time knows.

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In unrelated Heat news, the team got an ESPY nomination for Best Team when the nominations were announced Wednesday. It will compete with the 2011 World Champions St Louis Cardinals, who’s hero, David Freese  got a nod for Championship Performance. The ESPYs will air on ESPN on July 11.

In more related Heat newz, media mogul Oprah  Winfrey is bringing the stars of the NBA champion Miami Heat on her show, Oprah's Next Chapter, this Sunday (8 p.m. ET, Oprah Winfrey Network).

Winfrey sat down with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade andChris Bosh to talk about all sorts of things, from basketball to women to lives off the court.

To get a peep of the interview go to http://content.usatoday.com/communities/gameon/post/2012/06/oprah-talks-with-lebron-james-dwyane-wade-chris-bosh/1#.T-udXhee6RY

Speaking of Oprah, part two of the “Oprah’s Next Chapter” special on theKardashians,  was aired Sunday as the family opened up about their romantic relationships.

Though Kim wasn’t joined by boyfriend  Chitown reared rapper Kanye West, the reality star still spoke candidly about their blossoming romance.

Admitting she’s “happy” with the rapper, Kim insisted their relationship isn’t a business arrangement.

“It’s your heart you’re playing with,” she told Oprah. “I couldn’t sacrifice my heart for a publicity stunt.”

Kim also denied that they plan on moving in together and said they have no plans to wed.

“But to have him in my life this way I think says a lot about us,” she says.

Khloe and husband Lamar Odom revealed that while they are not currently expecting a baby, they are “always trying” to get pregnant.

Odom, who said he was pleasantly surprised by the way the Kardashian family embraced him, acknowledged he had a rough season in the NBA, but says his reality TV career had nothing to do with it.

That said, Khloe – who revealed she and Odom pray nightly together, even when they’re apart – went on to say she’d be willing to give it all up for the sake of their marriage, if need be.

 “I wouldn’t think twice,” she said. “It’s my family.”

She added later on, “If I don’t keep my morals and what’s true to me… then what am I going to have when this is done?”

A still-pregnant Kourtney and longtime boyfriend Scott Disick said they have a name picked out for their daughter, but “want to meet her first and make sure it’s the right name.”

We are waiting for the next spinoff of Keeping Up with the Kardashians: “The Men of the Kardashians.” LOL

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In related Oprah newz, after a successful two-part interview with the Kardashian clan on OWN's "Next Chapter," the family invited the talk show mogul to join them on an upcoming episode of "Keeping Up with the Kardashians."

Oprah's rep confirmed to Us Weekly that she will appear on the E! show.

Winfrey, reportedly  hit it off with Khloe Kardashian Odom, a source told Us Weekly.

The veteran television host had earlier admitted on Facebook that she "did a full on 'Kardashian Kram' in preparation, watching major shows from every season" after having never seen the show before.

She went on to praise the interviews with the Kardashians as, "another level of forthrightness and honesty."

Wow, so you know what really went down. Momma Kardashian probably told O’s  peeps that if you want interviews with her clan on her show, she has to agree to return the favor and be on their show. LOL. Interesting that O admitted to not watching The Kardashians which reveals that she only agreed to doing the interview because some of he rhandlers at OWN probably said it would be a good idea to do it to get the network out of its ratings albatross.

East St Louis native and former UCLA standout Dawn Harper will be heading to London for the opportunity to defend the Olympic gold medal she won in 2008, She secured a spot in the Summer Games that run July 27 to Aug. 12.

Harper finished first in the 100-meter hurdles in 12.73 seconds at the U.S. track and field trials Saturday in Eugene, Ore.

St Louis bred and gymnist Sarah Finnegan, will be competing at the Olympic trials this weekend in San Jose, Calif.

Chicago native and Actress/model/advocate Jenny McCarthy has once again set tongues wagging with her sixth appearance on the cover of Playboy. The blonde bombshell is featured on the cover of the July/August issue wearing nothing but some black knee-high tights and coordinating fingerless fishnet gloves. In addition to the cover photo, McCarthy appears in an eight-page photo spread inside the magazine, her seventh pictorial forPlayboy.

The 39-year-old told People magazine that this particular photo shoot was particularly special because of the classy factor.

"I'm really proud of it," McCarthy told the magazine. "The pictures are really gorgeous and classy. They could be out of W magazine. They're really elegant. It's probably a lot more sophisticated than a lot of McCarthy made her Playboy debut in 1993 as a centerfold and later went on to be named Playmate of the Month and Playmate of the Year.the stuff you'd see of people with their clothes on."

In more McCarthy newz, Comedic actor Jim Carrey defended himself recently after ex-girlfriend Jenny McCarthy accused him of abandoning her autistic son, Evan, and forcing the 10-year-old to go to therapy.

“I will always do what I believe is in the best interest of Evan’s well being,” Carrey said in a statement released by his publicist to ABCNews.com today. “It’s unfortunate that Evan’s privacy is not being considered. I love Evan very much and will miss him always.”

McCarthy, who dated Carrey for more than five years, opened up about her

struggles with Evan on Howard Stern’s radio show recently. ”I’ve tried to ask [Carrey] numerous times [to see Evan], because my son still asks,” McCarthy said, adding that Evan tells her he misses Carrey “almost weekly.”

McCarthy said that while she doesn’t communicate with the comedian directly, she’s gone through “channels” to convince him to reconnect with her son.

And in more McCarthy newz, she is the  new host of the tropical dating show Love in the Wild that airs on  NBC with its  new location in the Dominican Republic. And, she made reports for being an advocate for not having babies vaccinated which, in her opinions causes autism.

Hmmm, T&A, baby mamma drama, TV hosting and protesting vaccines--she pretty much covered everything that needs to be covered with and without clothes. LOL
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St Louis native Emmy Award nominated actor Jon Hamm  and his actress girlfriend Jennifer Westfeldt were robbed during a recent stay in London.
Hamm's rep confirmed that the thievery took place, though noted, "I can't comment as it is an ongoing investigation."
It's unclear exactly when the robbery went down, but it occurred during the couple's recent trip to the U.K., where the stars—who have since returned back home to Los Angeles—were promoting Friends With Kids.
According to Life &Style, the power couple was having dinner in London, when Westfeldt's purse was snatched (whether from her directly or behind her back is unclear). The duo's hotel room key card was in her bag, and the underhanded albeit quite resourceful thief used it to subsequently break into their suite and continue the robbing spree.
It's uncertain exactly what was stolen or how much damage the criminal(s) did, as the investigation is ongoing.

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Carbonale, Ill native  Emmy Award winning actress Laurie Metcalf is headed to Broadway. She will star in the thriller “ The Other Place.” The actor will reprise her role as a brilliant researcher stopped short by an unnamed neurological disease and the unraveling of her family. Previews will begin December 11 at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.

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Metcalf’s former TV colleague, Affton, Mo native John Goodman and Kansas City native Don Cheadle will co star in Academy Award winner, Denzel Washington’s  film , “Flight” that arrives in theatres Nov 2,

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A spokesman for R. Kelly says the R&B singer is suffering complications from throat surgery and will miss promotional appearances for his new album and memoir. Kelly's publicist said in a statement that the singer was on his way to New York on Wednesday morning when he became ill and returned to Chicago for medical treatment. Kelly had surgery last year to treat an abscess on his vocal cords. Kelly's new album, "Write Me Back," came out Tuesday and his memoir, "Soulacoaster: The Diary of Me," releases Thursday.

The Grammy winner's publicist says Kelly will have to cancel appearances on "The Jimmy Fallon Show," NBC's "Today" and at a book party. Kelly's spokesman says it's unclear how long the singer will be sidelined.

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Meanwhile, R Kelly’s ex wife, Andrea is currently starring in the new realityshow show, VH1’s “Hollywood Exes.”  It also stars Sheree Fletcher (Will Smith’s exJessica Canseco (baseball player Jose Canseco’s ex) and Mayte Garcia (Prince’s ex), 

R Kelly was married for years to his former choreographer, Andrea Kelly. Divorced recently, Andrea  decided her filming a high-profile reality show would be the ideal way for people to recognize she was more than “a pretty face and small waist,” and an even better way to let the world know her “quiet time” was now over.

During the couple’s marriage R. Kelly was accused of having sex with underage girls. He was acquitted of child-pornography charges in 2008.

Andrea also makes it clear that she doesn’t think it’s odd or strange that her new VH1 show about life after the fairy tale ends debuts the very same week her ex-husband releases a new book about his life and album. In fact she believes it is divine intervention.

The premiere debuted on June 25, 2012 at 10/9c and debuted again on June 27, 2012 at 9/8c it's original airdate along with the second episode that deputed at 10/9c.

Come on,. Hollywood is all about timing and we are sure there is some coincidence of The Kellys coming out with projects at the same time. And we wonder, did the R really lose his voice or just didn’t wanna comment about his ex and the reality show. We just sayin.

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Chicago native singer/actress Jennifer Hudson is set to join a fellow “American Idol” runner-up,Katharine McPhee, for a guest stint on NBC’s musical drama “Smash,” the network has announced. Ms. Hudson, left, who has won an Academy Award, a Golden Globe and a Grammy, will portray a Tony-winning Broadway star for a multi-episode arc, starting with the Season 2 premiere. The second season is expected to begin early next year, though no date has been set. For July the 4^th, she will perform on the BOSTON POPS FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR, an entertainment special to be broadcast live from the Charles River Esplanade in Boston, Wednesday, July 4 on the CBS Television Network.

Wonder if J Hud will cop an Emmy Award for any of  these TV perfomances  next year (or her Grammy tribute to Whitney at that matter for this year) and add  it to her Oscar and Grammy.

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In more J hud newz, her film Mandela that she filmed in early 2011 has yet to be released in theaters. It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, 2011, but due to a lackluster response, has not been released in any theaters worldwide nor has been released to DVD.

Hmm, we wonder if it has to do with the controversy regarding the real Winnei Mandela’s disdain of the producers of the film not consulting her personally about her portrayal.

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Academy Award-nominated actor Robert Downey Jr. and Academy Award winning actress Reese Witherspoon were  honored at The Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute's annual benefit on Saturday, June 19 at the Ritz-Carlton in Chicago recently . Over 450 guests attended the event which grossed more than $30,000 for the center. 

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Jefferson, Mo native and St Louis raised Cedric The Entertainer is the guest editor of Jet magazine.He is promoting his new TV Land sitcom The Soul Man, which airs at 10pm on Wednesday nights.

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St Louis native boxing champ Spinks seeks a sixth title on Saturday in a rematch where he will attempt to regain the IBF junior middleweight championship he lost to Cornelius "K9" Bundrage at Scottrade Center on Aug. 7, 2010.  The fight will air  live on SHOWTIME on Saturday beginning at 8 p.m. CT.  Bundrage vs. Spinks II will be the main event of a ShoBox-televised tripleheader. The fight will take place at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino Special Events Center in Indio, Calif.  near Palm Springs.
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Harvey, Ill native singer WILLIE TAYLOR of the group DAY26's is about to release his upcoming mixtape entitled "THE REINTRODUCTION OF WILLIE TAYLOR", that will be available in July. The promotional single released is “ "12 Play" and the official single  (TBA)from the project will be released next week on Tuesday, July 3rd.

 "After over 2 million downloads of my first mixtape "Sextape", I wanted to build a bridge from "Sextape" to my new mixtape " The Reintroduction of Willie Taylor" by doing a remake to a song that would definitely get everyone's attention and "12 Play" by R. KELLY, was one of those obvious choices. This song is a R&B classic," says Taylor.

To download the single, “12 Play” go to

http://soundcloud.com/noivakmusic/willie-taylor-12-play

YOUTUBE LINK - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFgTa3JNfzw

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Chicago native and Emmy Award nominated actress Marla Gibbs can be seen in Tyler Perry’s new movie, “Madea’s Witness Protection” where she plays Madea’s neighbor, Hattie. The film will be released nationwide this Friday. 


ADD: Also, in the movie is St Louis native and Emmy Award winner Doris Roberts.

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Chicago Gay Pride took place June 22 and 23 with the 43rd annual Chicago Pride Parade taking place June 24 were familiar from years past — with politics mixing with commerce and plentiful bare skin — but the procession was also marked by a series of firsts.

A record crowd estimated at 850,000 by the city's Office of Emergency Management and Communications turned out to watch the parade wind through the Uptown and Lakeview neighborhoods. This was the first trip down a longer route designed to ease the overcrowding that plagued last year's parade.

Along with the new route, the parade itself was different in subtle but significant ways.

In a break with tradition, coordinators put a coalition of religious groups at the head of the queue of floats, marchers and bands, not far behind the politicians who led the parade, Gov. Pat Quinn and Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Organizers honored a request by the groups to be moved up, a shift aimed at promoting the idea that religion and LGBT identities can coexist.

Performers included Martha Wash, Frenchie Davis and Jojo.

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America’s Got Talent aired the 100 talent acts who vied for its Top 48 semifinalists in Las Vegas  to  compete in New York in the live finals.  Two of the STL acts who advanced were danger act Spencer Horsman  and St. Louis' daughter and dad duo of Maurice and Shanice sang their way through, too, on the strength of the stellar vocals of Shanice, despite a slip up by dad

The list of semifinalists chosen to compete in the live shows from New York next week are:

787 Crew, dance crew

All Beef Patty, drag queen

All Wheel Sports, stunt BMX team

All That!, clogging crew

The All Ways, band

American BMX Stunt Team, stunt BMX team

Aurora Light Painters, light painting group

Ben Blaque, crossbow act

Big Barry, novelty singer

Joe Castillo, sand art

William Close, "Earth harp" musician

Tom Cotter, comedian

Eric Dittleman, mind-reader

Edon, singer

Elusive, break dancer

Eric & Olivia, vocal group

David Garibaldi and his CMYKs, performance art

Distinguished Men of Brass, brass band

Hawley Magic

Tim Hockenberry, singer

Horse, nut-shot act

Spencer Horsman, escape artist

Inspire the Fire, singing and dancing group

Jarrett &Raja, magicians

Nikki Jensen, singer

Donovan Jones and Becky Peache, aerialists

LCD - Lisa Clark Dancers

Light Wire Theater, glow-light dance group   

Lil Starr, dancer

LionDanceMe, dance troupe

Michael Nejad, novelty musician

Lindsey Norton, dancer

The Scott Brothers, dance duo

Sebastien "El Charro de Oro", mariachi singer

Olate Dogs, animal act

Todd Oliver & Irving, comedian/ventriloquist

Jake Wesley Rogers, singer

Cristin Sandu, balancing act

Shanice & Maurice, father-daughter group

David "The Bullet" Smith, human cannonball

Danielle Stallings, singer

Turf, street dancer

Ulysses, singer

Unity in Motion, dance troupe

The Untouchables, dance crew

Jacob Williams, comedian

Wordspit and the Illest, band

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Travel Network’s America’s Best Sandwich chose its winner in the Midwest section  this week :Chicago’s Al’s Beef’s Italian sandwich. Competing was fellow Chicagoan Fifty/50 4-Courser and St Louis’ Crown Candy’s Hear Stopping BLT.

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ADD: Three STL based talents will be featured on MTV’s Made. Singer Amber Lunceford, Branding Development Specialist, Abesi of Abesi PR & Marketing who serves as Amber’s MTV MADE Coach and Lunceford’s production coach City Spud of the St Lunatics. Also in the episode is renowned vocal coach, Steven Memmot and accomplished choreographer, Anthony “Redd” Williams, also from St Louis. MTV MADE airs weekdays @ 4/3cst.

THE BIG STL NEWS STORY THIS WEEK IS:

The 14^th  Annual Susan G Komen Race for the Cure that took place Saturday. From reports, there were 51,183 participants in downtown St. Louis this year, and 3,217 of those participants are breast cancer survivors.  So far the race has raised $2.46 million for breast cancer research and prevention. Seventy five percent of that money stays right here in St. Louis.

This year there are 770 teams, and as of Friday, more than $2.45 million has been raised through Race for the Cure, and 75 percent of that stays right here in St. L The race's fundraising program individual winner this year is Bridget DuMont of Bridget's Brigade. She raised over $15,000 and was given the opportunity to officially start the race, but she turned that honor over to the second highest individual fundraiser,Tara Boland, who is pregnant and currently battling breast cancer.

The largest team this year is Team Breadhead, which consists of 4,600 participants that raised $189,200.

Singer Nikko Smith also performed.

Winners of the races: 
Male wheelchair winner: David Grassi from Ballwin, Missouri, with a time of 8:30 
Female wheelchair winner: Sandy Daley with a time of 19:43 
Female survivor winner: Katie Sutton from Kirkwood, Missouri, with a time of 19:29 
Male winner: Colby Lepresi from Geneva, New York, with a time of 16:38 
Female winner: Meagan Hudson from Crystal City, Missouri, with a time of 18:36 
First two women to walk and cross the finish line together: Norma Kelley from Fenton and Kay Cherry from Wentzville

According to reports, June 2012 is going down in the record books as having the largest PrideFest in St. Louis history. With the biggest parade, best entertainment lineup and close to 200 vendors - PrideFest St. Louis broke the 100 thousand attendance barrier this year.

The celebration began on Saturday with Lola Van Ella and Sammich the Tramp from Van Ella Productions emceeing and entertaining the crowd. Numerous performances took the stage, including Ms. Sharon, Middle Class Fashion and Anti-Gravity. The eager crowd went wild as the Asian sensation herself took the stage – comedienne/actress Margaret Cho. (Cho had two performances scheduled Saturday evening at Lumière Place Theatre with protestors outside the theater.)

In addition to Cho’s "smoking" performance, PrideFest St. Louis introduced five fabulous divas. This year’s Vital VOICE Headliners were country legend Shelby Lynne, singer Frenchie Davis, Ru Paul’s Drag Race favorite Pandora Boxx, music artist Kristine W and diva Deborah Cox

The STL had two BIG major events this past weekend reppin breast cancer survivors and the LGBT community. We are sure the city collected much revenue for these events getting all communities out and about, pun intended.

 

According to reports, Nightclubs will be required to close earlier -- at 2 a.m. on weekdays and 3 a.m. on weekends -- following a vote by the City Council on Thursday.

Mayor Alvin Parks said Saturday that the new closing hours would be enforced beginning July 1, after the current licensing period expires. Currently, clubs and other businesses can be open as late as 6 a.m.

Parks opposed the change and said he's determined to make sure it doesn't affect city revenues. He said he believed club owners would use their ingenuity to maintain profits within the restricted hours. He said he's also working to attract family-oriented businesses and additional lodging options to the city.

The council voted to change the closing hours after receiving a legal opinion that three, not four votes, were needed for passage. The vote was 3-1, with Parks dissenting. He vetoed the measure but the council then overrode the veto by a 3-1 vote.

The council had voted 3-2 to change the hours a week earlier but Parks ruled then that the resolution needed four votes for approval.

As we said before, just because the club closes early it just means folk will wreck havoc earlier then go to other spots that will remain open after the Boogie ends including Sauget and Brookyln.

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Lingerie football won't be played at the Family Arena after all.

The Lingerie Football League's new St. Louis franchise and county officials failed to work out a contract last week for the team to play its home games  in the Family Arena in Saint Charles.

"In the end, we just felt it wasn't a good fit and didn't make sense from a business or a public relations standpoint," County Executive Steve Ehlmann said in an stltoday,com article.

The league reportedly wouldn't provide financial guarantees that the county had required to reserve two home dates next year at the county-owned facility in St. Charles

The league — which features women in sports bras, shorts, football pads and helmets — said it still plans a St. Louis squad, which was recently named the Saints.The league’s founder said they had several other venues in discussion.

The team had tryouts Sunday as scheduled at Vetta Sports' south St. Louis County.

Now, is it us, or does women in lingerie and Family Arena go together? We just sayin. We think that plan was doomed at the beginning….we know one city who wished they had the arena to house them—can you Brooklyn? LOL

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The St Louis Cardinals is planning to sell $4 tickets in honor of Fourth of July weekend. ' If you plan on getting a ticket go to http://on.ksdk.com/LNxee8

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Ameristar this week kicked in a $50,000 donation to help finance the petition drive pushing a countywide smoking ban exempting the company's St. Charles casino.

Most bars and many restaurants also would be exempted under the proposal, which is aimed at pre-empting a tougher proposal favored by anti-smoking groups.

Ameristar's $50,000 donation was reportedly made Monday to the Committee for Economic Liberty, a group formed June 6 by to advance their measure. Under the group's proposed County Charter amendment, people could still light up in businesses barring anyone under age 21.

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THE FORMER MEMBER OF THE ST LUNATICS *SLO DOWN*  is a special guest SATURDAY NIGHT @ ANOTHA LEVEL IN BERKELEY

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St. Louis bred rapper Stevie Stone made a splash on the billboard charts as his first nationally distributed CD, “Rollin Stone” debuted on the Billboard 200 Album Chart at No. 73.  He is signed to Kansas City rapper Tech N9ne's Strange Music label.  He will be performing with Tech 9  on July 5 (SEE EVENTZ BELOW)

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ADD: Pershard Owens, of St. Louis won FOX 2’s St. Louis Idol competition that took place last week at Chesterfield Mall. He along with the other two finalists Matt Wynn,  from Wentzville and 

Jessica Napolitano of St Louis performed on Fox 2 Morning Show where the winner was revealed. Owens  won a guaranteed audition in Chicago, IL. July 12 , a two nights stay in Chicago  and $250 in cash.   

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Club owner Jason Spain will have his grand opening of his newest venture J SPAINS WAFFLES & WINGS FRIDAY JUNE 29 at 1901 Washington Avenue near his club spot The City Lounge at 1917 Washington Avenue.

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STL group  ♥ AUNYAE HEART &THE BLACK ROSE ♥ has made it to Round 3 iin the Casino Queen finals that will take place tonite , Thursday at the Queen at 7 p.m.

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Model Ashley Comer- Salazar: who is promoting to become Miss Social in Playboy Magazine was a guest on 105.7 The Point this week talking about  her mission to be in Playboy.

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Model Paris Caldwell debuted her first radio gig on MIXLR with “Back to Indiana” .To hear it go to   http://mixlr.com/myrhythmnation/showreel/myrhythmnation-presents-back-2-indiana-w-paris-special-editionl

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Fashion designer/STL TV personality Christia Parker’s blog  Moda Christia made the Alive Mag Style list recently

 

 

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Murphy Lee LIVE AT Plush Saint Louis JULY 7^TH

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Celebrate Saint Louis Summer Concerts

Friday, July 13 10:00a

at Soldiers Memorial Park, St Louis, MO

The Summer Concerts provide free national musical entertainment. 
50,000 attendees expected. 
** Estimated start time -- Please confirm **

 Event Website

The 2012 Celebrate St. Louis Summer Concerts, presented by the Fair Saint Louis Foundation, will bring the party home with live concerts in the heart of downtown St. Louis. Join us for two weekends of FREE entertainment — LIVE FROM SOLDIERS MEMORIAL. This July’s line-up that will rock St. Louis includes:

NEON TREES

Friday, July 13

Double-platinum smash single “Animal” propelled Neon Trees into fame in 2010, and ever since the band has been making fun, yet lyrically profound, music. Lead vocalist and keyboardist Tyler Glenn came together with the other three members of the band eight years ago in Provo, Utah, where they still call home. They’re set to rock the Budweiser Main Stage and kick off the Celebrate St. Louis Summer Concerts at Soldiers’ Memorial on Friday, July 13 at 9 p.m.

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD

Saturday, July 14

Michael Franti first formed the group Spearhead in the mid 90s, merging his positive and socially conscious attitude with his love for music to create roots and reggae tracks with powerful themes. Their most recent endeavor is the uplifting “The Sound of Sunshine,” released in 2010 and reaffirming Franti’s talent for connecting with fans. Michael Franti and Spearhead will do just that on the Budweiser Main Stage at Soldiers’ Memorial on Saturday, July 14 at 9 p.m.

Opening for Michael Franti at 8 p.m. is Erin McCarley.

THE OFFSPRING

Friday, July 20

The Offspring continue to receive broad-based acclaim from alternative and album rock fans. Hits including “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)” and “Hit That,” as well as several tours have secured their place as a top punk rock band. Their latest single, “Days Go By,” was released this year and is the precursor of their next album of the same name, set for release in late June. The Offspring will rock the Budweiser Main Stage at Soldiers Memorial on Friday, July 20 at 9 p.m.

NELLY

Saturday, July 21
Hometown hero Cornell “Nelly” Haynes is a figure familiar to many St. Louisans– and to the world. The metro area and University City native is the second highest selling hip hop artist of all time, and since his groundbreaking debut album Country Grammar he has received three Grammys and three American Music Awards, with four number one albums and five number one singles hitting the charts. Beyond music, Nelly has also showcased his acting ability in blockbuster “The Longest Yard,” owns two clothing companies, his own record label, and operates two charity nonprofits. Nelly will return to his roots on Saturday, July 21 at Soldiers Memorial at 8 p.m.

Nelly is also partnering with Fair Saint Louis to give local unsigned bands the chance to perform on the Budweiser Main Stage on July 4, 6, or 7. A grand prize winner will receive 10 hours of recording time at Vatterott College ex’treme Institute by Nelly­- St. Louis. Check out more details and info on how to submit your music video here!

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Ledisi will perform July 13 at the Pageant.

Eric Benet is also on the bill.

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Rock singer Fiona Apple heads to the Peabody Opera House July 14.

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The Summer Music Festival starring Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Patti LaBelle is July 15 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater. Also on the bill are the O'Jays, Babyface and Tank.

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Rock group O.A.R. will perform at the Fox Theatre. July 19.

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ADD:Singer Lenny Williams is at the Ambassador . July 21.

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The Indigo Girls will perform July 21 at the Pageant.

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Javier Mendoza's CD release party for his "Vida, Trabajo, Amor" project is at 7:30 p.m.July 24 at the Sheldon Concert Hall.

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Grammy Award winning rock group Train performs at the Peabody Opera House July 29.

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Seal is playing the Fox Theatre July 31.Macy Gray opens.

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Comedian/radio personality/game show host Steve Harvey will perform at Chaifetz Arena on July 27.

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 Grammy Award nominated rapper/singer Nicki Minaj will perform at the Peabody Opera House July 31.

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Zac Brown Band will perform Aug. 1 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater.

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Comedian Tracy Morgan from "30 Rock" returns to St. Louis with a concert Aug. 3 at Lumiere Place Casino for two

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Diamond Rio and Jo Dee Messina are joining forces for a Vatterott College benefit taking place Aug. 4 at the Pageant.

Erin Bode is also on the bill.

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House Party Tour 2012 featuring Whodini is at 7 p.m. Aug. 4 at the Ambassador.

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Summerland 2012 with Everclear, Sugar Ray, Gin Blossoms, Lit and Marcy Playground is at 7 p.m. Aug. 7 at the Family Arena.




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Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators is at the Pageant with a concert at 8 p.m. Aug. 8.
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Wanda Jackson will perform. Aug. 11 at Blueberry Hill's Duck Room.

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 The Smooth Jazz Cruise presents David Sanborn and Brian Culbertson,  Aug. 23 at the Pageant.

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Grammy Award winning country singer Lyle Lovett will perform Aug. 25 at the Peabody Opera House.

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Phish will perform at the Chaifetz Arena Aug 28

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BLIND PICZ. Who was the lady on the left buying jewelry at Vauje in Union Station recently?







BLIND DISHZ. Which popular STL venue is about to close shop?


HINt 1. It is currently located on Delmar.




HINT 2. It moved from one end of Delmar to its current spot


HINT 3. Part of its name comes from a fruit used in a popular "rich person's" cocktail.

PRO-MO-CIAL-ITES (June 24-30) Which STL mover and shakers got it in this week on the promotions and being on the scene?

Mocha Latte. The Queen of Promotions is back at it . This past Wednesday  she hosted two new weekly events in succession of each other. The first was at the new Soundbar (formerly The Broadway) for its Happy Hour  then she hosted Wine N Dine Wednesday at The Inspot Dessert Lounge (SEE NEW ONGOING BITZ BELOW). And she continues to host the popular mainstay Select Saturdays at The Loft.

Ola. This top NYC native fashionista is gettin it in as her designs Ola Style are hanging up at Macy's at South County Mall. She is currently featured in this month's Alive Magazine and just signed  to be the spokesperson of 'Day At a Time" weight loss formula and her designs were featured in Jewelenaire that took place Wednesday (June 27) at Copia, the restaurant she co-owns. 

Jason Spain. This former managing exec at Clear Channel Communications is currently the owner of one of the popular nightspots in the STL with The City Lounge. This Friday (June 29)he will open his second business, Jason;s Waffles N Wings located in the same vicinity of his club near 19th and Washington (SEE BITZ ABOVE) and at his club, Imperial Events presents a CD listening party for rapper Kidd Tyrell. 

DJ Needles. This 2012 RFT Award winner has three ongoing basis events poppin this weekend. This Thursday, he debuts Ghetto Blastic introducing and featuring dee-jays at The Delmar Lounge for a weekly jam session (SEE NEW ONGOING BELOW).  This Friday, he will be spinnin at the second installment of Made You Look featuring underground artists at Lola (SEE ONGOING BITZ BELOW) and on Saturday, he will present his monthly spin series Daylight: A Summer Madness Day Groove at Joe Bucks in downtown St Louis (SEE ONGOING BITZ BELOW) 

WORDZ 

TO

THE

Z

Why does Jerry Sandusky's lawyers think he is innocent? Why folks are still hatin on Lebron James even after winning the NBA Title? Why isnt Rodney King buried? And why doe sit seem as though there was some foul play in his death? Why was ousted anchor Ann Curry used as the scapegoat for the Today Show's ratings crash? Why does Fox 2 St Louis reporter Roche Madden always stress the word FOX when he ID tags  his stories?Why is NeNe Leakes gettin TV shows? And why did Quincy Jones dis' P Diddy for being untalented?

HAPPY STL CANCERians BDAZEs—Theater producer Ron Himes (PICTURED), comedian Maurice G, rapper Tef Poe , news anchor Kelly Jackson, radio personality Sylli Asz, burlesque entertainer Ginger Brown, Africanist Kelly Wimbley, producer Tech Supreme, dee jays DJ T Gutta and DJ Dirty MO, club owner Antwann Binion, rapper Rcb MC  and fashion designer Koncrete Kidd

EVENTZ

The 4^th Annual Lewis Reed Fundraiser  at the Magic Chef mansion  Thursday June 28 3400 russell blvd 6p.m. to 8 p.m.

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AFRIKY LOLO present lessons about the Drum  at the Regional Arts Commission  June 29 at 8:00am until June 30 at 9:30am

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Grey Goose Vodka & MPAC presents

Pre 4rth of July Eye Candy Party June 29

Short Shorts & High Heals

Ladies FREE til 11:30 wearing short shorts & highheals

Cherry Noir & Heineken drink specials!

Who will be Miss Summer Eye Candy Model?

She wins:

* $500

* Photo Shoot by Art Xpressions-photography Smith

* Featured on Radio,TV, and Newspaper

* Just added become official Heinken Promotional Model!

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Lady Antebellum, Darius Rucker and Thompson Square’s will perform June 29 show at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater.

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Imperial Events presents rapper Kidd Tyrell CD Lisetning Party at The City this Friday, June 29.

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Sierra Moses will have a trunk show at Mark Anthony boutique  June 30 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at St. Louis Mills Mall Hazelwood. Right next door to Old Navy

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Daylight: A Summer Madness Day Groove

Friends Event · By James Gates

June 30 4p.m.

at joe bucks

downtown st louis

1000 Clark st

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Diianne Kerney CD Benefit Concert Release party 7 p.m.
New Birth Miniestries Worldwide June 30

715 N 80th St, East Saint Louis, Illinois 62203-1820

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Will eip Woods presents

FLASHING LIGHTS "STOPLIGHT PARTY!"
WEAR RED= Taken/in a relationship
WEAR YELLOW= its complicated/depends on who asking
WEAR GREEN= Single
STOPLIGHT ATTIRE IS PREFERRED BY NOT REQUIRED

BOOK YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY/BOOTH/VIP ASAP!! SOLD OUT FOR THE COLOR ME RED
PARTY SO DONT MISS OUT THIS TIME! 314 546 0621
*****GINGER BISTRO****** 
6665 DELMAR BLVD

(SAT) JUNE 30TH 9PM - 1AM

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Will Downing  will perform at the Pageant June 30

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Rockhouse Entertainment and Hella Fly present Jagged Edge at the Ambassador July 1

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Close To Famous Enterprise and 1^st Friday present the Day Party  photo.

THIS SUNDAY 7/1 >>> THE DAY PARTY *4th Of July Kickoff* @ HORIZON at Harry's (2144 Market St.) | Doors Open @ 4pm | Beats by: Dj A.I | Complimentary Bud Lime A Rita, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey Cocktails & Admission w/ RSVP HERE:www.TheDayPartySTL.com

ADD:St. Louis band Dirty Muggs performs a Sly & the Family Stone tribute July 3 at the Coliseum Music Lounge.9 p.m.

*Poor souls Society Fourth of July Fundraiser on 14^th and Montgomery in old St Louis near Crown Candy from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. .Contact us for details (347-92-SOULS or 347-927-6857)... please leave a message with any questions, concerns, to volunteer, if you have desires to perform on stage or  about having an information-based or donation-based 'Small Business Booth'!

***Lastly, but most importantly, you will be able to see downtown's fair air show & fireworks display from our location, so plan to hang with Poor Souls Society on this 4th of July!

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Wednesday July 4th is the  celebration of the new The Pointe 400 Patio located east of Busch Stadium and south of the Millenium Hotel almost on the riverfront!  DJ Lou Diesel, DJ Arty J, & DJ Deception will all be performing! VIP Tables are LIMITED please call now to reserve your section...  call Jake at 314-740-7764 Gourmet food trucks will onsite serving all night. +++++++++++++++++++++++

NEXT WEDNESDAY JULY 4TH
THE ONLY PLACE TO BE FOR THE FOURTH OF JULY IS CLUB AMNESIA!!!!!
RED, WHITE, & TRU INDEPENDENCE DAY BASH
BROUGHT TO U BY LIQUID ASSETS, TEE WHITE & YOUNG JUAN EDWARDS
WE GIVIN AWAY TRUE RELIGION ALL THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT
EVERYBODY WEARING TRUE RELIGION FREE ALL NIGHT LONG, LADIES WEARING TRUE RELIGION DRINK FREE TIL 12!!!!!
 HOT 104.1 DJ CUDDY IN THE MIXX

TO RESERVE BDAY BOOTH CONTACT 314.699.0589

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FAIR ST LOUIS The 32nd annual Fair Saint Louis will will feature three days of free entertainment on the grounds of the Gateway Arch.  Featured headliners include Heart on Wednesday, July 4, Third Eye Blind on Friday, July 6 and Dierks Bentley on Saturday, July 7. Activities will also include two Independence Day runs in collaboration with the St. Louis Sports Commission, the 135th annual VP Parade themed “Parade Around the World,” air shows and more!

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Stevie Stone performs July 5 at Pop's as part of Tech N9ne's Hostile Takeover Tour.

 

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CLUB/;NIGHTLIFE BITZ

FUNNY FIRST SUNDAY with Arvin Mitchell  at BlueBerry Hill
TICKETS $10 ADVANCE $15 AT THE DOOR ADVANCE CALL 
(314)599-0705 Princeton Dew
Doors Open @7:00 Showtime 8:00

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ALL OUT, EnCrowd, Klosed Circle, & Next Level Presents...
$1 Wednesdays @ THE AMBASSADOR(9800 Halls Ferry Rd.)! 
Snapbacks & Tattoos Party!
$1 Admission For Everybody ALL NIGHT!
$1 Long Islands, $1 Martinis, & $1 Blue MFs 'Til 10pm!
$1 Pool Tables!
Doors Open At 9pm! 
Hosted by T-Rell! 
Co-Hosted by Killa Cam!

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Close To Famous & StarPower Marketing Present:
The PROFESSIONAL -Summer Kickoff-
+Tony "T-Luv" Davis Gentleman's Birthday Celebration
Thursday 6.28.12 @ SoHo Restaurant + Lounge (4229 Manchester)
PROFESSIONAL; a person who is expert at his or her work
Thursday June 28, 2012 at SoHo Lounge  on Manchester in the Grove Come mingle with some of the Industries Best at The Official Celebrity Summer Kickoff Event! The Gentleman's Birthday Celebration for The Professional Business Man Tony "T-Luv" Davis will be filled with VIP's so you dont want to miss this!
Gentlemen Jack *INVITE ONLY* VIP Dinner & Cocktails @ 7pm 
General Admission @ 9pm
DJ JoPrima | Style Code Enforced
VIP/BOTTLE SERVICE: 314.761.7834 or closetofamous@yahoo.com

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 Ghetto Blastic presents
POLY RHYTHM NATION the newest, hippest, musically progressive-est Thursday weekly for you and yours to stop thru and groove...meet Nappy DJ Needles along with guest DJs and musicians every Thursday night at The Delmar Lounge in the U. City Loop for a weekly jam session that moves your mind, body and soul!
Beginning Thursday June 28
The Delmar Lounge
6235 Delmar
NO COVER!!

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The second installment of Lola's "Made You Look" series, featuring Full Crate & Mar with DJ Needles . every last Friday

At LOLA 500 N 14th St. St.Louis, MO | www.welovelola.com

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Learn More About The Social: www.welovethesocial.com  at this weekly happy hour celebration, The Social toasts to the most influential people in St.Louis, MO including local politicians, business leaders, filmmakers, artists and designers. This event takes place at Lola, one of the most see-and-be-seen venues in St.Louis | Every Friday Shift58 + BFreeStlouis + Crown Royal + Heineken presents: w. The Social {St.Louis} Happy Hour Series + New Connections w. Every Friday | 5PM-8PM |  w. at Lola: 500 N 14th Street St.Louis, MO 63102 Business Professional + Summer Upscale {Requested} _______________________________+

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The House Party Series Featuring BJ The DJ w/special guest DJ AJ, Stress Free Fridays, Aunyae Heart and The Black Rose Band. At The Collesium 2619 Washngtin Ave. Everybody Free til 8pm. $10 admission after 8pm.

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MUSIC BITZ




ADD: RCB MC released his new mixtape "Bachelor Party". To download it go to http://midwestmixtapes.com/2012/bachelor-party/

FOR MORE ONGOING BITZ GO TO

http://maatology.blogspot.com/2010/03/ongoing-bitz-april-week-one.html