Shameless Young Debuts Latest Episode of Shameless Series

CLEVELAND - Hidden deep underneath all the crude humor, controversy and purported exploitation, a Date with Deante is a sobering, informative series that uncovers major social problems in America.

Welcome to Episode 27.

Entertainer Deante Young interviews two women in the latest installment (entitled, "If You're Skanky and You Know It...") of the critically acclaimed (and maligned) web series, one of which is a pseudo racist who grew to love a decades-old high school rape.

She's now a "raging alcoholic" and ostensibly homeless.

The other woman, a self-proclaimed "whore" as a 13-year old and currently a mother and wife reveals her love of urban guys and makes herself look, well....shameless. It is the hallmark of the show and the genesis of Young's appeal.

They're both shamelessly brilliant!

New Era: James, Cavs Fly Through Has-Been Pistons

CLEVELAND - Memories of NBA playoffs circa 2006 and 2007 came to my mind as I watched the current Cleveland Cavaliers dismantle the once-great Detroit Pistons.

Times have certainly changed.

Led by the incomparable LeBron James, the Cavs completed a highly expected 4-0 sweep of their Motown rivals yesterday by earning a 99-78 victory in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The victory made Cleveland the first team to advance to the second round of the 2009 NBA Playoffs and sent an emphatic statement to the Pistons and the rest of the league that this is a whole new era in pro hoops.

During the 2006 postseason, a very cocky and arrogant Detroit team was given a much tougher semifinal series with Cleveland than it expected. After a rousing 64-win season that year, they expected easy pickings with the upstart Cavs. Surprisingly, the '06 series stood at a 3-3 tie going into game 7 in Detroit. In that series ending game, the Pistons shackled James and marched to a 79-61 pasting of the Northeastern Ohioans.

The Cavs actually beat the Pistons in '07, thanks largely to the legendary game 5 performance of LeBron, who scored 29 of the team's final 30 en route to 48 for the game. Even still, the Cavs lost the first two games of that series and James was vilified in the media for passing up a shot late in game 2 and instead passing to Donyell Marshall, who subsequently missed a three-pointer near the end of the game.

This 2009 series was drastically different. Even though Detroit no longer has Chauncey Billups or current Cavalier Ben Wallace, the gap is still stunning given their pedigree and remaining talent. The most sizable gap these days between the two teams may be in confidence level. 

Detroit's former irascible  swagger is currently non-existent and the cockiest of all, Rasheed Wallace was all but a hood ornament in this series. Cleveland however, has exuded a super coolness all season that belies their searing intensity and humble self-assuredness. Maybe Detroit has good reason to be more mice than men these days. Their '08-'09 acquisition Allen Iverson was done for the season before the regular season ended, Tayshaun Prince's trademark defensive tenacity and Richard Hamilton's feathery jumper were all A.W.O.L.

Of course, those of us in Cavs country have zero sympathy for these guys. LeBron's dazzling series performance 32, 11, 7 per game was a startling reminder that he is on an historic path towards basketball immortality and at age 24 is maybe the best player in all of sports, not just basketball.

I really feel bad for their next victim, er ... opponent.

Left Eye Was A Gift From Left Field

CLEVELAND - Lisa Lopes was someone that lived life by her own rules. Once she became a global star as the most outrageous member of the mega-popular group TLC, her idiosyncrasies made headline news.

But she was so much more than controversy.

Today marks the 7th anniversary of Lopes' sudden death in an auto accident. Professionally known as "Left Eye," Lopes and her cohorts Tionne Watkins (T-Boz) and Rozonda Thomas (Chilli) made music history during the 1990's with their super successful albums and cutting edge music videos. As a whole, TLC were confident, defiant and relateable for young women all over the country. "Left Eye" was always the eccentric one, but her unique style and demeanor earned her the unofficial title of most popular member as well as a legion of devoted fans.

In spite of a tumultuous, yet highly publicized relationship with then-NFL star Andre Rison (during which she infamously burned down his estate in 1994), Lopes continued to resonate with fans which made her sudden break (and brief estrangement) from the group years later seem like a good decision.

By the time she was killed in the Spring of 2002 in Honduras, Lopes had become a far more spiritual and reflective person. She was the only fatality in a vehicle of ten people, as well as the only one strapped in a seat belt.

I wasn't a big fan of TLC, but I admired and respected their music. "Left Eye" appealed to me because she seemed to have the same singular uniqueness as I, without regard for what others may have wanted her to be. She was a philanthropist and activist and truly cared about making the world a better place.

That was what truly set her apart.

Day 26

CLEVELAND - The one-man entertainment center that is otherwise known as Deante Young has just released (via Dirty Truth Films) the 26th installment of his spicy web series, a Date with Deante.

Hooray.

In the latest edition entitled, "The Good, The Bad and the Ugly" Young converses with a very young child who stole actor Kirk Cameron's legendary 1980's hair! The limitless entertainer then encounters a series of folks that all fit into one of three categories of people; the good, the bad and the ugly.

It is trademark Deante at his best.

Johnston Manipulating Palin Debacle Like a Pro

CLEVELAND - Levi Johnston comes off as something of a dunce. He never seems completely in the moment, nor does he seem particularly bright.

But he's milking his Sarah Palin affiliation for all it's worth.

Johnston, 19 is the father of the Alaska governor's four month old grandson. The former high school hockey player had been engaged to Palin's daughter Bristol until their supposedly mutual break-up last month, but in the weeks since, there have been a steady stream of back-and-forths between the Palins and Johnstons in the media.

Johnston has appeared on Tyra Banks' show and after some prodding by Banks, he admitted to not always practicing safe sex with Bristol. On Larry King Live last night, he reiterated that line and also echoed Bristol's controversial comment about abstinence not always being realistic for teenagers.

Gov. Palin has repudiated Johnston's claims and dispelled any notion that he and her daughter engaged in any sexual activity in her home. She's also dismissed his current media appearances as nothing more than a cheap ploy on his part and that he has lied "in a quest for fame."

Funny stuff.

When Gov. Palin was announced as Sen. John McCain's running mate for the U.S. presidency last August, Johnston was presented to all of the world as a super-upstanding guy and he and Bristol were the happiest young couple in the world, all ready to wed and live a life of endless marital bliss. That was the mistake, and Johnston always seemed uneasy anytime he was photographed with Bristol, especially at the high-profile RNC.

After McCain lost the election to President Barack Obama, the wheels really started to come off of this contrived relationship. Bristol gave birth to her and Levi's child a couple days after Christmas and initially proclaimed Levi to be a great dad. Last night, Johnston told King that he barely gets to see the child nowadays.

Johnston has been all over television. He has also been approached to do some modeling and has had a host of other offers. He now has a publicist and is constantly hounded by "people camped outside [his] house." He is simply playing his hand to the fullest as well he should.

After all, he was used as a "symbol" by Palin when she campaigned. It's his turn now.

Jordan Should Have Been Arrested in Boston in '86

CLEVELAND - Chicago Bulls basketball was never the same after Michael Jordan joined their awful team in 1984. For Jordan, he wasn't ever the same after a historic afternoon in Boston in 1986.

That is when he became a basketball immortal.

Jordan, wearing his familiar uniform number 23 broke a 24-year old NBA Playoff record in Game 2 at age 23 by scoring 63 points 23 years ago today in the nearly impenetrable force field known as Boston Garden, a hoops mecca that saw the 1985-86 edition of the home team roll to a glittering 40-1 home mark in the regular season.

He was simply smashing.

It occurred to me earlier that MJ had been a premeditated assassin that day. Indeed, after netting 49 points in Game One, Jordan came out "guns" ablazin' and became a relentless marksman, a shooter without a conscience and no regard for his "victims." As it turns out, his "victims" were wowed by his slithering moves even as he evaded their grasp only to "knife" through rotating defenders en route to nearly scoring an unlikely heist; a Bulls victory in Beantown.

Almost.

Jordan, who was only in his 2nd pro season had suffered a stress fracture in his foot three games into the season, causing him to miss 64 games. Chicago was a putrid 21-43 in those games but saw a glimmer of hope to make the playoffs as the lowest seed when the super hoopster returned in Mid-March. That means that it took him less than five weeks to ascend to the level that he played at in Boston.

Wow.

Though the briefly stunned Celtics won the game, 135-131 in double OT, the series and eventually, the NBA championship, Jordan made an indelible impact on the sports world and his legend continued with its meteoric rise in the coming years.

And even though he didn't kill the Celtics that day, he should've been arrested for assault, battery and attempted murder.

But he got away with it! Lucky us!

Columbine Killers Did America An Ironic Favor

CLEVELAND - Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris, in spite of their admirations of the misdeeds of Adolf Hitler and their twisted longings to become infamous via inflicting epic harm to those that (allegedly) mocked them as well as innocent folks actually made America a better and safer place to live.

Say what?

Today marks the 10th anniversary of that nightmarish Spring day in Littleton, Colorado. Klebold and Harris, two financially privileged teens went on a shooting rampage at Columbine High School where they were both students, killing 12 of their classmates and a teacher before committing suicide. The massacre was the worst school shooting in over 30 years and became a flash point in the annals of the U.S. school system; an indelible occurrence which has since shaped and improved school security measures and made social isolation and bullying an ongoing discussion and concern between parents, national organizations and school officials alike.

The magnitude of that 1999 tragedy wasn't immediately obvious. At the time, it was said that Klebold and Harris idolized Hitler and wanted to use his April 20th birthday to avenge alleged bullying by other students. They were also purported members of "The Trenchcoat Mafia" though these statements now seem apocryphal with the passage of time. However, the murderous duo influenced many twisted minds in the ensuing years, most notably Seung-Hui Cho, the mastermind of the Virginia Tech Massacre in 2007.

Klebold and Harris, in addition to the arsenal of handguns and shotguns they carried with them as they terrorized their school planted several homemade bombs in and around Columbine in hopes of authoring an even more epic tragedy. Thankfully, the bombs either failed to detonate or had very little impact when they did.

Looking back, I remember the stunning horror of that day. The vivid memories of the students frantically racing from the school to safety still feels too nearby in time to fade. With extensive television coverage that historic day, it was made very clear to me that this was indeed a "big deal." 

I pray that my children never go through anything remotely resembling this.

Klebold and Harris were hell bent on hate and violence. They wanted infamy and global attention. They definitely got it. But we as Americans got something more; hope, promise and a better understanding of our youth. As senseless as the tragedy was, it built our faith and strength in tempestuous times. Our resiliency helps us overcome because we have lived through the worst of people.

Columbine lives on. Long live faith. 

Rookie Film Company Releases First Movie

CLEVELAND - Dirty Truth Films is clearly a creation which gestated deep in the mind of its founder, media extraordinaire Deante Young.

A day after Young celebrated the one year anniversary of his raunchy web series, a Date with Deante, his burgeoning film company releases its first-ever short movie. The comedy, entitled A Cow on Crutches tells the terse story of a driver who happens upon an apparently wounded "cow" as "it" lumbers down a city street. The driver tries to speak to the obviously unnerved "animal," but doesn't have much success communicating with the distressed "side of beef."

A Cow on Crutches is available on YouTube and MySpace. It's rated PG-13 for some verbal cruelty to an "animal." Dirty Truth Films is a division of April Fool's Entertainment.

Young's Shocking Series Celebrates 1st Anniversary

CLEVELAND - As far as envelope-pushing, controversial geniuses go, Deante Young stands at the Mt. Olympus of First Amendment exploitation.

And he's very proud of that perception.

One year ago today, Young's seminal web series, a Date with Deante made its debut online and immediately garnered both critical acclaim and searing criticism for its proliferation of racial epithets and misogynistic themes. Young's own audacious language and ultra-intrusive interrogation of his female guests (Sarah and Beth Ann are pictured above from the very first episode) drew the ire of several Women's Rights Organizations. 

"What Mr. Young created was a crude, crass and callously irresponsible load of garbage," says Kathleen Myers, founder of Respect All Women of America or R.A.W.A. "He has no regard for women and he clearly respects himself even less than that if he willfully shows his ignorance and passes it off as creative honesty."

Young comes to his own defense. In a statement issued through his multi-media production company April Fool's Entertainment, the 32-year old shockster says that he loves women and never disrespects them. "As I've said before, I am a truth seeker, not an exploiter. What people need to understand is that I bring the harsh, filthy reality of the world to the forefront." He says. "If the language gets racy, that's fine. We're all adults here and the adult women that I interview never object while being interviewed so it's just much to do about nothing."

With Season 2 underway, Young is expected to release the 26th episode of the series sometime in the coming days.

Series Page: http://www.adatewithdeante.com/

Bulls 70th Win Proved They Were One-of-a-Kind

CLEVELAND - I remember it so vividly. The chase. The dominance. The cautious celebrating. The insatiable intensity.

It was once-in-a-lifetime.

It was 13 years ago today that the Chicago Bulls rewrote NBA history by winning their 70th game of the season and thus, becoming the first pro hoops team ever to do such a thing. In an ugly game against the Milwaukee Bucks on the road, the Bulls eclipsed the 1971-72 L.A. Lakers' record of 69-13 with their star pupil, Michael Jordan having a horrible shooting game.

Jordan, 33 at the time misfired to the tune of a woeful 9-of-27 shooting performance. He managed 22 points and 9 rebounds, but it was Luc Longley's two foul shots in the closing seconds that sealed the gut-it-out 86-80 victory. Chicago improved to an unreal 70-9 on the season.

Sheesh!

Both Longley and All-Star Scottie Pippen scored 16 while the enigmatic Dennis Rodman grabbed 19 rebounds. Chicago used a 24-12 fourth quarter to erase a 68-62 deficit after three quarters. All-Star Vin Baker was unguardable for the Bucks as he finished with 28 points and 12 rebounds.

The Bulls, overjoyed once the victory and record became a reality were very careful in their excitement. They repeatedly mentioned the importance of winning the NBA championship and how that mattered far more than their glittering record. By season's end, their record stood at 72-10 and they eventually authored a 15-3 jaunt through the postseason and defeated the Seattle Supersonics for their 4th NBA title in six seasons.

Naturally, Jordan was the "ringleader."

In the 13 years since the Bulls' historic run, many NBA teams have seemed poised to challenge or eclipse the 70-win plateau, or the 72 overall victories. All have failed, which has only proven how very difficult it is to accomplish this enormous feat. Fueled by the hyper-competitive Jordan, the Bulls never let up on any team and were never buried when they fell behind by huge deficits. Though not the most talented team, they were clearly a well-rounded one with every guy playing their roles to perfection.

With last night being the end of the 08-09 NBA regular season, I think this is the perfect time to salute Chicago's seminal 1995-96 campaign. It was truly one for the ages and it will never be replicated ever again.

Remember, there was only one Jordan.

Major Disaster Inspired Biggest Hollywood Blockbuster Ever

CLEVELAND - It took place during the early 20th century, during a time in world history where everything seemed to be in its developmental stages. The RMS Titanic, an enormous and opulent passenger steamship, met with a horrible fate during its maiden voyage 97 years ago today.

As we all know, the celebrated ship sank a day later after hitting a large iceberg.

The colossal scope of the tragedy resulted in the deaths of over 1,500 people, partially due to the insufficient amount of lifeboats aboard the vessel. It left from Southampton, England bound for New York City off the Eastern coast of the U.S., but nearly three hours after that fateful collision, it struck the formidable iceberg that ultimately sent the liner to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean.

Wow.

Of course, most people nowadays know of the historic tragedy because of the mega-popular 1997 film, Titanic which has grossed more than $600 million USD (and more than $1.2 billion worldwide) in the dozen years since its release. That film, directed by James Cameron and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet was a stunning and rousing success right out the gate and served as a de facto documentary about the long ago disaster.

It certainly sparked new interest in the event.

Though I greatly enjoyed the flick, I am saddened by the massive loss of life aboard that luxurious ship. It was probably an unavoidable moment, but it should still serve as a reminder to us all to place a premium on enjoying your life as it is. It can all be taken away at the drop of a hat.

Or the ominous rip of an iceberg.

Beyond A Seed Of A Doubt

CLEVELAND - The Cleveland Cavaliers have been a basketball powerhouse this season, steamrolling their schedule like the franchise never has.

And last night, they clinched the number one seed throughout the East playoffs.

The Cavs' first-ever Eastern Conference top seed became a reality when they defeated the host Philadelphia 76ers, 102-82 but it was actually a mere formality. With the team's scintillating 64-15 record, they are clearly a team on a mission and was destined to earn the privilege of playing potential playoff series-deciding games on their homecourt, where they are an amazing 38-1.

LeBron James made sure the clincher came last night as he pitched in a stellar 27 points and 10 assists. "It means a lot to set a goal and accomplish it," said James after the victory. "We should be proud."

The Cavs may even earn the NBA's best overall record since their closest competition, the L.A. Lakers lost to Portland last night to fall a game and a half behind them. What's more, Cleveland can tie the 1985-86 Boston Celtics' all-time record of 40-1 at home if they win their final two home games; one of which (ironically) is against the defending champion Celtics.

I'm not betting against James and his boys. 

Let the Laughs Begin ... Again!

CLEVELAND - One of the most consistent trademarks of Deante Young is his remarkable sense of humor. It trickles down to every project he does.

His latest episode is no different.

Young, 32 premieres the 25th installment of the racy web series a Date with Deante entitled, "Sightseeing and Stuff." Taking shots at everything (and everybody) in his path, the foul-mouth entertainer produces yet another classic.

Check out the shocking details in this well-done episode that will leave its viewers in stitches!

Hefner Is 83...On Calenders Only

CLEVELAND - Happy birthday, Mr. Hefner. May you continue to live well, long and prosper. And may the rest of us be so lucky!

You're amazing.

Hugh M. Hefner, the legendary founder of Playboy magazine and each of its related entities celebrates his 83rd birthday today, though the "actual" celebration took place this past weekend at the Palms Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Hefner's former triumvirate of girlfriends, Holly Madison, Kendra Wilkinson and Bridget Marquardt (the stars of TV's The Girls Next Door) threw him a bash at the popular Vegas location complete with a pool party.

This was the publishing magnate's first face-to-face encounter with Madison since their highly-publicized break-up last year, which left Hef sullen and heartbroken. Alas, he softened the pain by acquiring teen twin bombshells Karissa and Kristina Shannon and most recently, 22-year old blonde stunner Crystal Harris (pictured above with Hefner).

The iconic mogul said he was "very, very happy" at the turnout of present and past loves and acknowledges that he's "had a life well lived with much satisfaction." That may be one of the biggest understatements of all-time, given his more than half-century of jetsetting all over the world and maintaining a harem of very young, nubile and sexually charged women in his stable. His vast wealth and celebrity have made his life a real fairy tale, with his legendary Playboy Mansion serving as a "magic kingdom."

That's why Hef is only 83 on the calendar; no true octogenarian has ever lived a life this full of debauchery and carnal privilege. He is the master of hedonism and in my estimation, the greatest male in Earth's history.

I salute you again Hef! You are the man! Enjoy your day, sir.

Jordan Was Royalty For America's Urban Youth

CLEVELAND - With Michael Jordan being selected for induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame a couple days ago, it made me reflect on his gigantic impact on the urban area that I grew up in and the colossal dreams he inspired.

He was the ultimate role-model.

In my early years, I cared nothing about sports. My friends and other neighborhood peers were always playing basketball, baseball and football, but not me. I had more important things to care about. It was very odd though, that I noticed a growing "sports" trend while I was a third grader in 1985.

Many of my fellow eight and nine year old (boys) would take a piece of paper, crumple it into a ball and toss it at a wastebasket. If the paper ball made it into the basket, the kid would punctuate it by shouting, "Jordan!" I didn't know who this Jordan guy was, but of course, I later found out. 

It wasn't until I attended middle school (1989-90) that I finally fell in love with the basketball god that every other boy was already enamored with. I was in the middle of my 7th grade year in the Spring of 1990 and I noticed another growing trend; countless Chicago Bulls starter jackets and a litany of Air Jordan basketball shoes on the feet of dozens of students.

According to the chatter, you were something special if you had a pair of the vaunted, mega high-priced footwear. I took an interest in the unique and sleek design of the shoe and eventually asked other guys about them. Most people were still wearing the Air Jordan IV, which had initially been released in the fall of 1988, but spawned a few different colorways throughout 1989. Since I was just getting hip to the shoes in early '90, a new edition was about to hit stores.

I hated them at first!

The latest pair of "Jordans" were released with an ever bigger than usual price tag; $125. This was such a steep price for my mother to digest, that I didn't think I'd ever get a pair of the shoes that I just had to have. Good thing I didn't like them -- I wanted the '88-'89 edition, which were now being sold for some thirty-five bucks less. I ended up with the white, red and black AJIV, and I treated them like a newborn baby!

I eventually fell in love with the Air Jordan V which led to me falling in love with Jordan himself, then basketball (which I started watching on TV and learned how to play solely because of him) and finally, a fan of the NBA period. When I couldn't afford the shoes, I began making three-dimensional replicas of them out of paper and wore them as necklaces. This became my calling card in Junior High and High School, and even now --nearly 20 years later, folks still ask me if I still make them!

Another popular trend for the hood boys was to skip school on the day a new pair of Air Jordans were released (this resulted in a change to weekend-only releases years later). This was often done by the adolescent drug dealers who happened to think spending $133.75 (the exact price with tax) three or four times a year was chump change for a brand new pair of the super popular J's. Anytime someone in school or in the neighborhood had on a pair of the latest edition or colorway, we all scrambled to get a glimpse and or give our critique of them.

"Dem bitches look hard! I'ma get 'dem tomorrow!!"

Jordan's mythical popularity found its way into television and film too. In the 1986 film, She's Gotta Have It, the film's writer, director and co-star Spike Lee outfitted his character Mars Blackmon with a pair of the very first Jordans, the Air Jordan I which caused heavy fines to be levied against the Bulls superstar, but was paid by the sneaker's creators Nike Inc.

Then, in Lee's 1988 film School Daze, the Air Jordan III (the first with the visible Air, and colloquially known as the "air pocket") made an appearance. But the Air Jordan IV got an entire scene dedicated to it in the seminal Lee flick, 1989's Do the Right Thing. That film, set in the Bed-Stuy area of Brooklyn, N.Y. completely reflects the obsession and love-affair that young black men had with their own pair of Jordan's basketball shoes.

Other key examples of MJ's unmatched aura was illustrated subtly by actor Will Smith during the first several seasons of his television series, The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air. Smith, 22 at the time famously sports a pair of the Air Jordan V's in the opening credits of the series. He also wore all three original colorways during season one and religiously rocked every subsequent new edition in following seasons. Smith's real-life admiration for Jordan was revealed at the 2005 BET awards, when the Academy Award-nominated actor (who hosted the program with his wife) acknowledged as much during a short shout-out to MJ, who was present in the audience with BET founder Robert L. Johnson. Smith's gesture earned a smiling Jordan a standing ovation.

Malcolm Jamal-Warner's Theo Huxtable sported a pair of the Air Jordan II's during a couple episodes of the 1986-87 season of The Cosby Show. Kadeem Hardison's Dwayne Wayne, a geek in every other way on TV's A Different World, was ultra cool when it came to his shoe game; he was a diligent wearer of the Air Jordans as was his buddy Ron.

Michael Jordan's remarkable brilliance, style and confidence undoubtedly contributed mightily to the popularity of his eponymous sneakers. He endeared himself to us kids in "the 'hood" because he seemed to be just another one of us -- a young, black kid that simply liked to hoop. It was in fact how he started. The fact that he grew into an international, multi-billion dollar basketball immortal was well, just the residue of his superior work ethic and determination.

Beyond the stats, skills and awards, Jordan's seismic impact on America's culture is the true measure of his legacy.

He IS the Hall of Fame.

Eminem's New Video Should Be Appreciated For What It Is

Eminem - New Music - More Music Videos

CLEVELAND - Eminem is the man that brought me to rap and hip-hop music. Until his arrival on the pro rap scene 10 years ago, this genre of music was something that I personally couldn't relate to.

In a sense, we're the same guy.

Eminem, the professional name of Detroit-bred Marshall Bruce Mathers III released the lead single and music video for his forthcoming album Relapse today on MTV. The clip, entitled "We Made You" is vintage Eminem and harkens back to his Slim Shady days as the relentless humorist and smart-alecky wordsmith that rags on celebrities.

Mathers, 36 deliberately crafted this video with zany and satirical imagery as he "humiliates" a slew of pop stars and other public figures. From Bret Michaels and Sarah Palin to Jessica Simpson and Kim Kardashian, Eminem takes hilarious shots at them with the same biting wit that he displayed on his past lead singles (My Name Is..., The Real Slim Shady, Without Me and Just Lose It).

Many folks have criticized Mathers for the buffoonery and adolescent silliness of these lead singles for years and this new song and video is receiving more of the same. I've heard and read many people who are unhappy with his tradition of releasing a silly song poking fun at harmless pop stars and even accuse him of having "lost his talent." 

I highly disagree.

I feel that people are reading too much into these singles. True, his lead singles have essentially been carbon copies of each other, but they each tell a slightly different story and in fact is one of the main reasons America fell in love with him in the first place. Additionally, if people would simply take the songs for what they are meant to be (purposely silly, campy and over-the-top satire), then maybe people would enjoy the music more. Eminem never said he was making serious songs with strong messages, although there is the occasional lesson hidden somewhere in the track (even in the goofy songs).

"We Made You" is incredibly funny, witty and frenetic. It is classic Slim Shady and is the perfect springboard for the new CD.

That will be a classic too.

Jordan Becomes Most Deserving Hall of Famer Ever

CLEVELAND - Nothing is ever a sure thing in sports. Too many variables, too much adrenaline and too many hungry competitors fighting for the same thing.

On second thought, there was one sure thing in sports; Michael Jordan becoming a member of the Hall of Fame.

As I mentioned in February, Jordan was a finalist for sport's highest honor. Today, he was officially elected as a unanimous, first-ballot member into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame along with John Stockton, David Robinson, Jerry Sloan and C. Vivian Stringer. Jordan however, is the clear-cut headliner after an NBA career that played out almost as a fairy tale.

Jordan, 46 gave much credit to his former coach at the University of North Carolina. "Without Dean Smith, you never would have seen Michael Jordan," he said at the announcement of his highly expected election. The official induction takes place in September.

The basketball icon was far more than a giant in his sport. He transcended the very nature, popularity and competitiveness of athletics and became the embodiment of insatiable drive times an uncompromising work ethic equals gargantuan brilliance.

Congratulations, MJ.

M.L.K.'s Murder Discouraged, Then Empowered Us

CLEVELAND - As an elementary school student in the 1980's, I was (along with my classmates) consistently taught and reminded of the altruistic sacrifices that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made for, not only Blacks -- but humans of every race, color and creed.

His tragic murder however, was always the sad ending to it all.

Today will forever be known as one of the pivotal touchstones in American history. On this very date, 41 years ago, King was gunned down about an hour before sunset at the shoddy Lorraine Motel in Memphis, TN. His alleged assassin, a nobody named James Earl Ray successfully fled the scene undetected and remained at large for an incredible two months after the history-altering crime that he supposedly committed.

He was eventually caught in London, then arrested, convicted, he confessed, then recanted.

Ray died in prison in 1998 while serving a 99-year sentence. To this day, he remains the killer of record, but much speculation has persisted in the four decades since the crime. I'm not here to engage in a whodunit; rather I just want to point out a few things that Dr. King's assassination did to us Americans, especially Blacks.

It scared us like crazy initially.

Yes, King was the pre-eminent force in the iconic Civil Rights Movement of the 1960's. His tireless pursuit of justice, equality and racial harmony would carry him from the streets of Montgomery in the mid-'50's, to the Lincoln Memorial for his historic speech at the March on Washington in 1963 and finally, to that fateful final trip in 1968. It was his fiery oratory and courageous determination in the face of blatant racism that made Blacks believe in his message.

Then, he was killed.

King's murder was frustrating and discouraging. After a long period of mourning, we as a people stood up and actually became empowered by the spirit of King's vision. Suddenly, we began to believe that maybe, we controlled our own destinies.

It may have been his true legacy.

Let's remember King today for the gifts he gave us, rather than as the gift (him) that was taken away from us. America still has its warts and flaws, but in a very real sense...maybe it can also be called the promised land.

Remember, I did say maybe.

Fox Is A Perfect Example of Faith and Optimism

CLEVELAND - Michael J. Fox is one of my all-time favorite actors in both television and film. He is also one of the most inspirational people I have ever seen.

Seriously.

Fox, 47 was the very popular and successful star of two hit television series; Family Ties (1982-89) and Spin City (1996-00) as well as the headliner of the Back to the Future trilogy. He was stunningly diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's Disease in 1991, but waited a full seven years to disclose the life-altering information to the public. He has since largely abandoned his acting career in front of the camera in favor of a relentless dedication to finding a cure for this debilitating disease.

He's doing a heck of a job.

What impresses me most about Fox is his amazing resiliency, faith and optimism. He continuously displays a sharp wit and a remarkably self-deprecating sense of humor in spite of the involuntary shaking and compromised motor skills that he has been saddled with for years. He insists that the disease is a blessing and that it has only enhanced his life in spite of the litany of everyday simple tasks that have become major challenges.

Fox's wife, Tracy Pollan has been by his side through it all. They met in the 1980's on the set of Family Ties and have been married for over 20 years. Together, they have four children which is the primary source of joy for Fox. This past week, he appeared on The Oprah Show, The Late Show with David Letterman and Good Morning America and each time displayed an unprecedented candor and acceptance of his condition. He doesn't want sympathy, nor does he feel sorry for himself or long for the days prior to his diagnosis.

He just wants to enjoy life. Flat-out.

I applaud the man for being grateful and upbeat in this very challenging state. I am also happy that President Obama lifted the ban on federal financing for embryonic stem-cell research, which may very well lead to a cure in the very near future. Fox is thrilled about that as well, but the pivotal decision by the president didn't exactly make Fox's day.

His day was already full of blessings. Just ask him.

Young 'Stunned and Grateful' To Reach Age 32

CLEVELAND - Today marks the 32nd birthday of the great Deante Young, the controversial king of exploitation and multi-talented entertainer.

Happy Birthday, Mr. Young.

Young, the founder and chief creative architect of April Fool's Entertainment was busy developing the next episode of his shock tinged web series, a Date with Deante when he gave an early morning interview on seeing another birthday.

"I'm absolutely stunned to already be 32 freaking years old," Young said. "but God is good and I'm grateful to have made it this far. Many people don't get this honor." When asked to reflect on his most memorable birthdays over the years, Young paused a moment to reflect. "My 7th birthday in 1984 is one of the standouts because Marvin Gaye's death was reported on the hi-fi stereo during my party and the older folks had a fit," he said. "I loved my 1983 birthday party as well as 1999 and 2004. I have been truly blessed."

Young is excited about the remainder of this year as he plans on releasing his first CD in nearly four years as well as short films and music video projects. There have also been reports of a forthcoming book and another web series.

"I don't wanna count my chickens," says the birthday boy. "but this is going to be a watershed year for me and I think the fans will enjoy the material."

Spoken like a true showman. Happy Birthday, Mr. Young.

Get Ready For The Hodgepodge

CLEVELAND - The remarkable Deante Young has once again created a tangible example of his irreverent brilliance.

Young, whose 32nd birthday is tomorrow concludes the month of March in style with his latest edition of the web series, a Date with Deante. In the 24th installment (season two's 4th episode), the shockster encounters a cow on crutches, a sex-offender (pictured above), a wanna-be homeboy and a group of apparently gay Mexicans.

He's doin' a whole lot.

The episode, entitled "Mexicans in the Closet" makes its international debut later today on Facebook, MySpace and of course, adatewithdeante.com.

Jordan's Basketball Heroics Began in Carolina

CLEVELAND - Michael Jordan's legend truly began in 1979 when, as a high-school sophomore, he decided not to quit basketball after not making his high school team.

The world however, didn't find out about him until 1982.

Today marks the 27th anniversary of Jordan's famous jump shot in the NCAA title game between his North Carolina Tarheels and the intimidating Georgetown Hoyas. Jordan's historic shot put the Tarheels ahead with 17 seconds to play. An untimely turnover by the Hoyas' Fred Brown followed and UNC escaped with a nail-biting 63-62 victory.

The game, played in the New Orleans Superdome became a flash point in MJ's career. The 19-year old freshman had already made history by being a starter on the team. Head coach Dean Smith had a strict policy against first-year players being in the starting lineup. Jordan in fact wasn't even the star of the team. James Worthy was Carolina's signature player and was even named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player.

The devastating Hoyas were coached by the great John Thompson and led by the "Hoya Destroya," shot-blocking maniac Patrick Ewing. None of it mattered as the Tarheels used their formidable talent (which included Sam Perkins) to counteract Georgetown's physical play.

Jordan's legendary shot was featured on the cover of the 1982-83 Wilmington, N.C. phone book and his overall status expanded from there. This was Worthy's final collegiate game, as he entered the NBA draft afterwards, which opened the door for Jordan to become the Tarheels' flagship player.

Of course, the entire planet knows what happened after that. Jordan went on to become the greatest basketball player in history, thanks to a wildly successful pro career. He'll always be remembered as the basketball giant in Chicago red, but the roots of his legend will forever be hued in Carolina blue.

And it all started in '82.

Jordan's Lucky Day In Basketball Was March 28th

CLEVELAND - I'm the biggest Michael Jordan fan in history, which means that today couldn't possibly pass without me mentioning the sterling performances that took place on this monumental day in his NBA career.

March 28!

Jordan's first March 28th game took place in his rookie season. On March 28, 1985, a 22-year old MJ had a super 35 points, 10 assists and 8 rebounds, but the Bulls lost to the Cleveland Cavs. In his 5th season, he had a high triple-double (33 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists) on March 28, 1989 in a victory over Golden State. The following season, 1989-90 would produce his most prolific output on an NBA court ever. Playing in Richfield Coliseum nearly 11 months after his famous buzzer-beating jumper eliminated Cleveland from the 1989 playoffs, Jordan (pictured in this famous game above) dominated with a career-high 69 points along with 18 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. Chicago won, 117-113 in overtime.

The next season would culminate in the Bulls' first-ever NBA championship. On March 28, 1991, MJ scored 42 points in a mere 30 minutes of a 34-point Bulls blowout of the host New Jersey Nets. A year later on March 28, 1992, Jordan was unguardable as he drilled an amazing 21 of 32 shots including several post up fadeaway jumpers over the woefully mis-matched Steve Kerr, who played for the Cavs at the time and was given the thankless task of defending the soon-to-be six-time NBA scoring champion Jordan.

Jordan retired in the fall of 1993 after an epic, decade-long career, then returned to the court in the Spring of 1995. He struggled mightily in his first three games back in uniform (a peculiar looking number 45) but had a break-out performance March 25 in Atlanta. But it was his virtuoso performance on March 28, 1995 in Madison Square Garden that became legendary. Facing the New York Knicks for the first time since the classic 1993 NBA Playoffs, MJ netted a vintage 55 points and drew a double-team in the closing seconds, only to find teammate Bill Wennington with a flawless pass for the game-winning basket on the assist.

Filmmaker and MJ colleague Spike Lee "coined" the term "double-nickel" to describe Jordan's outstanding 55 point explosion.

That 1995 game was Jordan's final super human March 28 game. In his final game on that day, his luck seemed to run out. On March 28, 2003, a 40-year old Jordan took to the court in Hollywood for a meeting with the defending champion L.A. Lakers. MJ, now a member of the Washington Wizards was facing the league's premier offensive juggernaut, 24-year old Kobe Bryant.

Bryant was similar to what Jordan had been 15 years prior; an unmatched scoring machine with boundless energy and endless creativity with the basketball. He was also completely indefensible in every area of the court. Bryant put on a clinic, scoring a whopping 42 points in the first half alone before finishing with his own double-nickle of 55 points, mirroring MJ's effort from eight years in the past. In this game, the Wizards' Jordan had a tepid 23 points and the whole contest felt like a passing of the torch. Jordan's team was trounced by 14.

March 28 will always be a special day for me as all of the great Jordan memories come to my mind. To the most iconic figure in the history of basketball, I salute you.

You made my day every year.

Biggie's Final Masterpiece Was Ahead Of Its Time

CLEVELAND - Rap legend The Notorious B.I.G. blasted onto the music scene with a stunning debut that meticulously detailed the harsh realities of the crime infested streets of urban America.

His sophomore album took all of that to another level.

Today marks the 12th anniversary of the bittersweet release of Life After Death, a sprawling double CD produced by Bad Boy Records CEO and founder Sean Combs (as Puff Daddy) and starring the master of lyrical dexterity, Christopher Wallace (as B.I.G.). Of course, the fervor over the highly anticipated album was both dampened and elevated with Biggie's shocking murder in Los Angeles three weeks prior to the LP's release. Even still, the album was a true classic and further affirmed what we all knew; Biggie was a giant in his field and was getting better.

Life After Death was noticeably different from B.I.G.'s 1994 debut, Ready to Die. On this LP, he was more refined, polished and of course, accomplished. His life had become one of immense success and decadent pleasure. As a result, the gritty complexion of Ready to Die was present only in spurts. This album was a celebration of surviving the streets, while still tethered to them in the subtlest of ways.

Combs, then a 27-year old entertainment mastermind with a remarkable sense of what would best get his target audience's attention, was the man who urged Biggie to craft more mainstream music. It was his shrewd way of getting B.I.G. to appeal to a wider range of people while retaining his street credibility.

It was a flawless concept.

That 1997 album was clearly ahead of its time. Biggie's narrative was deliberately theatrical and it told the tale of a Brooklyn hustler turned Madison Avenue superstar. The hustler still existed in him and was even gangster-like if need be. But outwardly, the stunning ascension was something to celebrate and for his followers, even strive to emulate. Other rap albums of that time wasn't even close to being this complex. Study the epic set a little closer and notice Biggie adopting different rhyme schemes ("Notorious Thugs"), delivering a song in rap form, then delivering it again in conversation form ("I Got a Story to Tell"), and even paying tribute to the West Coast ("Goin' Back to Cali") even though he was clearly persona non-grata out there.

Life After Death will forever be Christopher Wallace's magnum opus. It will also always be the historical artifact that cemented his legacy.

Jordan Was A Caged Lion In Final College Game

CLEVELAND - Today marks the 25th anniversary of Michael Jordan's final college basketball game, a day that still bothers him to this day.

Talk about March madness.

Jordan was a 21-year old junior at the University of North Carolina at the time and was the catalyst in the Tarheels' glittering 28-2 record. They went into a matchup with the Indiana Hoosiers with high hopes, given their roster full of talent besides Jordan. The Hoosiers were inferior, they had six more losses than UNC and only a couple decent players on the team.

None of that mattered.

Playing in the East Regional, the Hoosiers' rambunctious and controversial coach Bob Knight employed a highly effective strategy to counter Dean Smith's Carolina attack. Knight also assigned obscure guard Dan Dakich to defend the dazzling Jordan.

Talk about a mismatch.

Amazingly, Dakich was successful with his hard-nosed defense. MJ was tagged with two early fouls and spent most of the first half on the bench and frustrated. With Hoosiers star Steve Alford scoring at will and Jordan unable to find a smooth second half rhythm, Indiana stunned Carolina with a 72-68 victory on a searing 70% shooting.

Jordan finished with a meaningless 13 points and a very significant five fouls. Two weeks later, he announced his decision to forego his senior year and join the NBA. Dackich was relieved when the game was over, but didn't think much of his success against the 1984 College Player of the Year.

Until Jordan became what he became.

Once MJ became a super legendary basketball hero in the pros, Dakich's defense on him during that final game became something of a mythological event. "Dakich is the only guy that could stop Jordan," said countless people once Michael became an offensive juggernaut in the NBA.

Jordan looks back on that moment now and commends Dakich for his efforts, but maintains that it was his own fault for not knocking down the "good shots" that he had. Either way, the hyper-competitive Jordan walked away from that game with a broken heart.

I'm glad it didn't ruin his NBA career!

Happy Birthday: Spike Lee Turns 52

CLEVELAND - Filmmaker Spike Lee, one of my all-time favorite people in the entertainment industry celebrates his 52nd birthday today.

Happy Birthday, sir.

Lee, a Brooklyn, N.Y. product through and through made his name as a controversial, envelope pushing filmmaker in the 1980's. His first six films, beginning with 1986's She's Gotta Have It and ending with the 1992 epic Malcolm X are hands down, some of the best films of the past 25 years. I became aware of him after his gutsy Do the Right Thing, a 1989 film that remains his most popular work and the flick with which he is most identified by.

Hope your day goes well, Mr. Lee and may you live long and continue to prosper.

Jordan's 1995 Return Caused Tears of Joy and Sadness

CLEVELAND - Michael Jordan is an American icon and a basketball hero. On the court and off, he was the quintessential competitor and the most revered figure in all of sports.

Today marks yet another of his watershed moments.

Jordan returned to pro basketball 14 years ago today following a shockingly unexpected early retirement from the NBA. He had played nine remarkable seasons for the Chicago Bulls and was coming off a 3rd straight NBA championship season that also earned him his 7th consecutive scoring title, third steals title and yet another Finals MVP.

Then he walked away.

MJ crushed the sports nation at large when, on October 6, 1993, he retired just two days before training camp began. He stayed away for nearly 18 months while pursuing a career in major league baseball. Alas, he never made it past the minor leagues and even still had major difficulting finding his way on the field.

When Major League Baseball went on strike in the summer of 1994, it seemed to be something that wouldn't affect Jordan. But when Spring Training arrived for the following season and neither side willing to budge in negotiations, Jordan decided that he wanted no part of the bickering and back-and-forth between owners and players. He stunningly issued a simple, two-word fax to the NBA offices.

"I'm Back."

Just like that, MJ was a pro hoopster once again which of course was met with mixed reactions. Millions of fans wanted him back ever since he'd left and were overjoyed at his decision. In contrast, many observers wondered if he could return to his accustomed heights with such a long layoff. Additonally, he had just celebrated his 32nd birthday the previous month -- an age in hoops where a player's skills begin a steady decline.

He was poised to make history.

Jordan returned to the lineup in a Sunday matinee game broadcast on NBC. It was the Bulls v.s. the Indiana Pacers in Indiana and the "prodigal son" (as he was being called) replaced Pete Myers in the starting lineup. During the highly anticipated game, Jordan struggled mightily; he had no lift on either his jump shot or forays to the hoop. His timing was noticeably off, he got winded early and often and he appeared tentative at times.

But the biggest difference in Jordan was his jersey.

Michael's world-famous jersey number 23 had been replaced with an awkward looking number 45. He later explained that he wanted to keep 23 retired because that was the last number his father (who was tragically murdered in the summer of 1993) saw him play in. In this game, Chicago struggled to contain the Pacers' attack. Sharpshooter Reggie Miller was a major thorn for the Bulls, who used a 29-19 fourth quarter charge (led by Scottie Pippen) to rally from a huge deficit and send the contest into overtime.

When the dust settled, the Pacers had earned a 103-96 victory. Miller's 28 points led Indiana while Pippen poured in 31 points for the Bulls.

What did Jordan do?

The super rusty basketball genius was anything but brilliant in his "re-debut" as he played a grueling 43 minutes and struggled his way to 19 points on an awful 7-of-28 shooting performance. His floor game however, was very good as he posted six rebounds, six assists and 3 steals.

The game was a sign of things to come for MJ. He struggled the remaining 16 games and 10 more in the playoffs. With the exception of his 32-point and game winning jumper at the buzzer at Atlanta and his sterling 55-point gem at Madison Square Garden, his abbreviated '94-'95 season was a bust.

Or was it?

After the Bulls got bounced from the playoffs by upstart Orlando, Jordan took a long, hard look in the mirror. Blaming his team's loss on his plethora of missed shots and turnovers, he vowed to return the following season better than ever. In other words, his lackluster showing drove him.

Three years later, Jordan capped off the Bulls' second three-peat of the decade with a championship winning jump shot against the Utah Jazz. All he did in his three full seasons after the 1995 playoff loss was garner two more MVP awards, 3 more scoring titles (for a record of 10 overall), lead Chicago to a record setting 72 victory season in '95-'96 and earned three more Finals MVP awards.

His championship total grew to six in eight years!

Bottom line, Jordan's 1995 return brought tears of joy to all of us ... his fans. For his opponents, their tears were filled with heartbreak and sorrow. If it weren't for his return, luminaries such as Miller, Shaquille O'Neal and Penny Hardaway, Patrick Ewing, Shawn Kemp and Gary Payton and Karl Malone and John Stockton may very well had won titles. Not all of them, but at least a few. Hakeem Olajuwon's title run may have went further than two.

Don't blame Jordan. Blame the baseball strike!

Their Own Worst Enemies

CLEVELAND - In the latest installment of a Date with Deante, the cutting edge entertainer fulfills a long-standing goal of his during an afternoon road trip and later proves why he is the King of Exploitation.

He witnesses a series of train wrecks.

That's right. Young happens across several folks who seem to be on the outside looking in as far as sanity and intelligence go. Once Deante goes one-on-one with them, they prove to be their own worst enemy.

Episode 2.03, "Attack of the Train Wrecks" has arrived. Enjoy or be disgraced!

O.J. Simpson Murders Three More People On Family Guy

CLEVELAND - In a previous article, I declared that Family Guy is uproariously funny. I want to amend that statement by saying that it is arguably the funniest show I have ever seen!

No joke.

The animated series, which premiered in 1999 is a rival of the iconic The Simpsons. Last night, it took a poke at its fellow Fox television resident but the real story was the infamous O.J. Simpson, who appeared on the show, albeit in animated form. 

Peter Griffin, the comically clueless patriarch of the Griffin family stumbles across a raffle ticket from 1989 that was a winner. The prize? A golf outing with former NFL star Simpson, who in '89 was still regarded as an All-American, wholesome guy. For whatever reason, Griffin is oblivious to the infamy that has followed Simpson since his highly-publicized double murder trial in 1994 and 1995.

Griffin doesn't understand why his family, friends and neighbors are against him allowing O.J. to come to their town. In the end, their reservations prove prophetic; Simpson gains everyone's trust, then unexpectedly kills three people and runs.

Though laugh out loud funny, the man can't even get a break as a cartoon!

LeBron: A Weapon Of Mass Destruction

CLEVELAND - I have been saying for months now that LeBron James is an illegal alien based on his out-of-this-world basketball heroics and the obvious advantage it gives him over his opponents.

Take a look at last night's game.

James, the super leader of the Cleveland Cavaliers once again clawed and dug his suddenly defensively limp team out of their funk and steered them to a rousing 126-123 victory over the Sacramento Kings.

The victory ended their three-game west coast road trip and gave them a 3-0 record, but given the nature of the games, there is hardly reason to celebrate. In a matchup with the L.A. Clippers to kick their trip off, the Cavs rallied from a huge 19-point deficit in the fourth quarter and actually won by four, thanks to James' sterling 32 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists. 

Two nights later in Phoenix, LeBron was super galactic again with 34 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists for his third straight triple-double. On one play, James raced back on defense as Suns star Jason Richardson leaked out for a breakaway. Nearly impossible to catch, Richardson went up for a 360 degree dunk but LeBron, pedal to the metal leaped and blocked the once sure-fire dunk from behind.

It was breathtaking.

That victory, a 119-111 decision gave Cleveland their first victory in Phoenix in 10 years. For last night's contest with Sacramento, the Cavs were facing a futile, 14-50 team. After falling behind early, Cleveland led at halftime by a single point. After a blazing third quarter for the Kings, the Cavs entered the final period down by 14.

Enter LeBron. Again.

The 6th year wonder netted 16 in the quarter and outdueled Kings' star Kevin Martin, even stealing a pass in the closing seconds that led to his game-tying foul shot with five seconds left. James defended Martin very well down the stretch, including the final play of regulation which caused Martin to miss and sent the game into overtime.

When the dust settled, LeBron had six of his glittering 51 points in the extra session including an audacious 28-foot three pointer that put his team up by six. With the victory, Cleveland earned the Central Division title -- something that they haven't owned in 33 years.

With a month left in the regular season, LeBron is proving himself to be the brick wall that separates other teams from an NBA title.

Maybe they should look for their own alien to compete with King James.

Bristol Palin's Break-Up Could Be Seen For Miles

CLEVELAND - The train wreck that is the Palin family just continues to crash and burn in front of the entire planet.

Bristol Palin once again looks ridiculous.

Palin, the 18-year old daughter of Alaska governor Sarah Palin is a single mom now. Her now ex-fiancee Levi Johnston announced yesterday that they called off their engagement "a while ago" but he wouldn't disclose any specifics.

He didn't need to.

The young Palin, who gave birth to Johnston's child at the end of December was interviewed on Fox News last month and made their relationship sound peachy keen. She even gave off the impression that the hockey-playing Johnston was thrilled to be a father.

But I saw right through her words.

Ever since Gov. Palin was selected to be Sen. John McCain's presidential running mate last summer, I sensed something woefully inept about the Palin family. Shortly after Palin became an instant spark plug for the GOP, she revealed to the nation her then-underage daughter's pregnancy. Anytime Bristol was shown on television with Johnston, they were always holding hands with her smiling or grinning and Levi wearing a very uneasy expression. The few times he managed a smile, it always seemed forced; very transparent.

And then there was MySpace.

Johnston wrote on his MySpace page that "[he doesn't] want kids." This was around the time that Palin was five months pregnant and her family was still nationally obscure. When her mother became a national fixation in early September, it unexpectedly vaulted Johnston into the spotlight, something he clearly was uncomfortable with.

He needed a way out.

Remember, Bristol is only 18...still a kid herself and a high school student. Levi is only 19. For people that young, marriage and parenthood are enormous burdens to bear. I believe that Johnston stepped back and looked at the big picture once the child was born and their nuptials grew closer (they were scheduled for a summer '09 wedding). High school sex with your girlfriend is great for that moment, but when it morphs into a legal commitment and lifelong obligation, suddenly it becomes scary.

I'm not gloating about their split. I'm only saying that it should come as no surprise. This union was snake bitten from the start and destined to fall apart at the seams. The question now is very simple.

How are the Palins going to spin this?

The South Comes North

CLEVELAND - There is an old adage that says to "respect your elders." Deante Young believes in that more now than ever.

And it's all because of his talk-show.

Young's raunchy series, a Date with Deante debuts the second episode of season 2 today with a slight deviation from its typical content. In the newest installment, Young welcomes his relatives to Cleveland from Baton Rogue, Louisiana and what follows is both informative and ultimately, stunning.

Young's great aunt, aged 90 is as sharp as a tack.

Along with his aunt is 80-year old Mr. Percy, who spices up the conversation with his uproarious revelations and philosophies. Young himself says through his publicist that these two seniors gave him a new found appreciation for older folks and that he'll "respect [my] elders" even more.

But he'll continue to piss everyone else off!

B.I.G.'s 1997 Murder Still Hurts

CLEVELAND - Between 1994 and 1997, a young man from Brooklyn, N.Y. rapidly became a rap phenomenon and soon, an icon of popular music. Physically, I was being compared to him early and often.

I hated it.

Today marks the 12th anniversary of the murder of The Notorious B.I.G. (nee Christopher Wallace) and years ago I became aware of his legacy. That made me proud to be compared to him, even if the comparisons were meant to be cruel. Wallace, with his formidable 6'3," 380 pound frame was even larger in rap music. He wasn't simply "a rapper," he was precision personified on the mic. When he was gunned down in a still unsolved drive-by shooting on that March 9, 1997 day in Los Angeles, the music industry suffered a cataclysmic loss of staggering proportions, even though it still doesn't realize it.

As I've stated many times, I wasn't a fan of rap music until Eminem came around in 1999. When Biggie was dominating the charts (and car stereos), I paid little attention. Make no mistake though; I knew of him...I just didn't know how amazing he truly was. Biggie's obvious skill for vivid storytelling was the catalyst in Bad Boy Records founder and CEO Sean Combs becoming so enamored with the young man. Combs, 23 at the time, signed B.I.G. to his label with a plan of making history, which they did. Combs (popularly known as "Puff Daddy" at the time) was just the ambitious and relentlessly focused leader that Biggie needed to steer him to superstardom.

They greatly benefited from each other and dominated.

B.I.G.'s critically acclaimed debut, Ready to Die catapulted him to the forefront of rap music. Prior to that point, the West coast seemed to monopolize the genre with their great roster of talent, especially once megastar Tupac Shakur (2Pac) joined Death Row Records in late 1995.  

With Biggie's star rising and Shakur in jail for most of '95, the stage was set for a very competitive 1996. Tragically, Shakur was murdered in September and B.I.G. was seriously injured in a car accident. It was six months later in '97 that Biggie was killed and everything changed.

Of course, B.I.G.'s second album, Life After Death was brilliant. He'd clearly refined his already stunning skill set to near perfection and developed a keen diversity in his subject matter. When the LP hit shelves on March 25, 1997, it was a bittersweet moment because of its epic quality and scope coupled with the knowledge that the man would never again bless us with his greatness.

It was awful.

Combs has become an extremely successful entrepreneur in the dozen years since that horrific night. Now known as "Diddy," the 39-year old mogul has amassed a fortune worth hundreds of millions of dollars and a legacy worthy of encyclopedic inclusion. The specter of Biggie's murder still looms though, even for Combs himself. Last night, the tycoon was driving through the streets of L.A. and lamented the still painful loss of his friend and colleague. "I couldn't sleep so I was driving down Sunset [Blvd.] blasting Life After Death," he wrote on Twitter. "It feels surreal...it's my first year in L.A. on March 9 since '97. Miss you..."

Combs isn't the only one that misses B.I.G.