Obama Needed To End Vacation!

While it's true that everyone needs a vacation, even President Obama, after the near disaster of Christmas in which a young terrorist nearly took down a plane near Detroit, our President should've cut short his vacation in Hawaii. President Obama rightly stated yesterday in his second briefing in 2 days that the system failed in not targeting Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab as a potential terrorist. He's now set Thursday as a deadline for answers to how the system failed, but waiting nearly 3 days to respond to the near disaster and not leaving the family on vacation, and perhaps returning later is the real failure. Having talking heads making preposterous statements such as Janet Napolitano just isn't a good look Mr. President.

Asleep On Prison Job!

Nadja Green is a corrections officer at Rikers Island, and unfortunately for her she was photographed while sleeping on the job. The picture was sent to the New York Post for the world to see. Green has been disciplined for her inaction, but the picture has to cause major alarm when in the picture an inmate is clearly standing over Green. Green apparently has worked 90 hours of overtime this month, but she may need to cut back on her hours for her own safety.

Abdulmutallab's Father Tried To Warn Us!

Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab's father went to the United States Embassy last month regarding the "radicalization" of his son. The concern went on deaf ears and Umar's name was placed in a database. This past Friday, Umar attempted to blow up a passenger plane in Detroit that simply would have been disastrous for the passengers on the plane and our country. The attempt to blow up the plane is rightfully considered a terrorist attack, and has immediately called into question security measures at our airports.

Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab is only 23 and a native of Nigeria, who hails from a prominent family. What would make a young man essentially end his life in an attempt to blow up a plane?

Did Mary J. Give Kendu The Beat Down?

In the year that is turning into the hubby beat down year, Mary J. Blige allegedly gave husband Kendu a hard enough punch in the face to draw blood after he reportedly was seen flirting with a waitress on Tuesday night at an album listening party according to Page 6 of the New York Post. Jay-Z, and Beyonce' were in attendance when the beat down took place. Mary's reps are denying trouble in paradise, but Mary J. Blige handled her business as only Mary J. can handle it.

Former Philly Cop Allegedly Abuses Girl For 8 Years!

Tyrone Wiggins was a Philadelphia Police Officer for 23 years. He's being accused of sexually abusing a 12 year-old girl beginning in 1997 for 8 years. His alleged behaviour came to the attention of police in 2007, however, he wasn't arrested until Nov. 19 a day after he retired according to the Philadelphia Daily News. Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey rationalizes the lack of disclosure as a simple oversight. On the surface it appears that Wiggins was allowed to continue working until he possibly qualified for retirement benefits. Wiggins was also a karate teacher at a local recreation center where he first met the young girl in 1995, and continued to work with children. The center wasn't even notified until a newspaper reporter contacted them. This is a deplorable story that smells all over, and heads at the department need to roll on this one.

Mary J. Blige Back With 9th Studio Album!

Mary J. Blige releases her 9th studio album this week titled "Stronger With Each Tear." Two singles have already been released from the album, "The One" and "I Am." While both singles are infectious, they haven't made any headway on the charts. Mary J. Blige is arguably the most consistent female R&B singer of her generation, so I'm sure that album sales will do just fine as Mary has always been known for the quality of her albums over the success of her individual singles.

R.I.P. Alaina Reed Hall-Tamini!

Sad news started to hit the net yesterday when it was announced that Alaina Reed Hall-Tamini who played Rose on the television sitcom "227" had passed away on December 17th. She was 63. Hall-Tamini's character, and the show itself are both underrated in the history of television. Prayers go out to her family.

Did Chris Henry Have A Death Wish?

A witness to the initial stages of Chris Henry jumping onto the yellow pick up truck that ultimately set in motion events that led to his death stated that Henry was banging on the truck and threatened to jump off if fiance Loleini Tonga didn't stop the truck as she sped from her parents home in Charlotte, NC according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. It appeared that Henry had escaped his previous demons, but obviously something went awry for him on Wednesday, and sadly his 3 children are now fatherless.

Chris Henry Suffering from Life Threatening Injuries!

Depending on what report you heard last night, Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry was either on life support or deceased after falling out of a truck in what is being described as a domestic situation with his fiance Loleini Tonga in Charlotte, NC. As of this morning, Henry is s still alive. Only 26, Henry has had an up and down professional career with various brushes with the law including a DUI arrest. Henry's season was ended after he fractured his left forearm in November.

This is just a sad story all the way around as Henry and his fiance were planning to be married in March. While the prognosis doesn't appear to be good for him, prayers have to go out to his family that perhaps a miracle can happen.

Asian Student at South Philly High End Boycott!

Asian students ended their boycott amid the racial tension at South Philadelphia High School yesterday after meeting again with School Superintendent Arlene Ackerman in the Chinatown area of the city according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. 25 of the original 50 boycotters were remaining out of school since the Dec. 3 incident in which a number of Asian students were beaten by African American students. While Ackerman has come under fire from Asian groups she does have the support of Philly Mayor Michael Nutter.

It's amazing that it took 2 weeks to settle this dispute. Ackerman should have been on top of the issue on Dec. 4, and Nutter as the mayor needs to get involved in any way possible to settle racial disputes with teenagers.

Rihanna's Naked GQ Cover!

With a struggling new cd, I guess Rihanna doesn't have anything better to do than pose topless for GQ Magazine. I guess she thinks that this keeps her relevant, but does it really. Rihanna needs to focus on putting out hits. It's a shame when artists feel that they can give the public any kind of crappy music.

Tiger Count Up to 14!

The Tiger count is now up to 14 with Theresa Rogers emerging as the oldest (late 40s) and perhaps longest standing companion according to Radar Online. Rogers is also being represented by attorney Gloria Allred which indicates that a payoff may be in order. On a positive note, Nike's CEO Phil Knight has committed to Tiger stating that the media is making a "big deal" of Tiger's indiscretions and that this episode will be a "minor blip" in Tiger's biography. I suspect that Knight is correct in his assessment, but Tiger will need to get over his obvious embarrassment and face the public at some point.

Tiger Takes Leave & Loses Accenture!

Tiger Woods announced Friday that he's taking an indefinite leave of absence from golf due to his infidelity, and yesterday he officially lost his first sponsor in Accenture. Woods still hasn't been seen in public since his accident, but I'm sure that he's hoping that over time the public will be less concerned with his personal life. Taking a sabbatical will be the best thing for Tiger as time heals things, and the golf world will be anxious for his return, whenever that will be.

Is Tiger An Issue Because He Cheated On His White Wife?

Now Hollywood madam Michelle Braun is dishing about everything Tiger Woods. When this story initially broke the whole thing smelled to no end and it gets stinkier everyday. I'm just curious as to why all of this is important, and at this point it really seems to be about taking down Mr. Woods which is quite interesting since before this scandal broke, Tiger was just a nerdy guy who was a great golfer who considered himself Caubalasian. Race is always my last thought on most things, but I'd venture to say if Tiger was married to a black woman, that this story would be over. I could be wrong, but the smellier this story gets, it just seems that way. The media seems hellbent on bringing down the brotha who cheated on his white wife. I could be wrong, but I suspect that I'm right on point.

Racial Turmoil At South Philly High School Reaches The Top!

South Philadelphia High School has been a cesspool of racial tension since December 2 when a disabled African American student was beaten up by 2 Asian students. Since then various attacks have taken place at the school that's been polarized along racial lines and this week 50 Asian students are boycotting the school.

Yesterday the School Reform Commission heard testimony from Asian students documenting years of racial turmoil from students as well as faculty according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. School Superintendent Arlene Ackerman presided over the meeting which is intended to come up with solutions to issues at the school. Hopefully solutions can be found, because all of the students are being adversely affected by the turmoil. Imagine trying to get an education in the midst of fear and anger just because you're a different race.

Tyreke Evans: Rookie of the Year Mix!

While Brandon Jennings gets all the praise as the best rookie in the NBA, Tyreke Evans is playing on the West Coast with the Sacramento Kings and quietly setting the world on fire. While Jennings has quieted down since his breakthrough 55 point game, Evans has been consistent, and overall been the best rookie in the league. Take a peek at this video of the talented rookie out of Chester, PA.

Elin Apparently Confronted Uchitel!

I guess I understand better why Tiger Woods will not get in front of the story that continues to derail him publicly. The New York Post reports that the night of his ill fated crash that Elin Woods confronted Rachel Uchitel telling her that "she knew everything," and throwing a cell phone at Tiger busting his tooth before chasing him out of the house with a golf club forcing him to exit barefooted.

I have a suspicion that with his reputation in tatters that Tiger will be taking an extended vacation from his occupation as a golfer. While it's true that he created this situation for himself, he doesn't have the opportunity to repair himself or his family in private, but he did sign up for all of this when he set out to become the greatest golfer of all time. Privacy unfortunately for Mr. Woods is not an option.

Prayers For The Perry Family!

Prayers go out to Tyler Perry this morning as he announced yesterday that his mother Maxine has died. She was only 64, and apparently had been sick since August.

Has Elin Moved On?

I was hoping that I was done writing about the Tiger Woods scandal, but needless the say when the media smells a scent they go in for the kill, and Tiger is getting knocked down to the point of taking a standing eight count. The tally of alleged women has hit 10 and Mrs. Woods has apparently moved out to a nearby residence while also purchasing a home in Sweden according to the New York Post.

Also, even though the cops have closed the accident case, Woods' condition after the crash is now being questioned including hints that Woods had been drinking during the day and taking prescription medications. Tiger also was scheduled to be the best man at a friends wedding, but now will apparently be a no show. He's obviously gone into hiding as a new woman seems to come out everyday alleging an affair. Mr. Woods is used to being in control of his image, which he has lost. Unfortunately he'll probably never regain that again, which for him has to be pretty humbling.

Vick Makes Return To Atlanta!

Michael Vick took another step in his comeback when he returned with his present team, the Philadelphia Eagles to play his former team, the Atlanta Falcons yesterday. Prior to the game Vick met with Falcons owner Arthur Blank and former teammates, and was able to make an impact within the game by running and passing for touchdowns. The crowd reception was mixed, but Vick handled himself in a dignified manner as the Eagles crushed the Falcons 34-7.

World B. Free's Wife Slain In Brooklyn!

Sad news has hit the NBA family, as the New York Daily News reports that former NBA star World B. Free's wife was killed last night at her family home in Brooklyn. Audrey Johnson attempted to mediate a dispute involving her niece's boyfriend when she was gunned down. Prayers go out to the family of Free, who presently works for his former team the Philadelphia 76ers in community relations.

Iverson Crying At Press Conference!

Allen Iverson says that he "was born to play basketball," and just wants to help his new/old team the Philadelphia 76ers win basketball games. Iverson was so desperate to get back in the NBA that he accepted a non-guaranteed contract with his old team. Ultimately if Iverson doesn't behave as he didn't with his last two stops in Detroit and Memphis then he'll be out of the league for good. This is a low risk proposition for the Sixers, and Iverson's last chance to continue his career. I know he doesn't want to go out like Stephon Marbury.

Beyonce' Garners 10 Grammy Nods!

While I'm a Beyonce' fan, I find it amazing that she received 10 Grammy nominations yesterday. While she set the world ablaze with "Single Ladies" her music lately is hardly historic. While I think she is probably our greatest black female performer, possibly ever, her music simply doesn't measure up to her immense talent. Country singer Taylor Swift received 8 noms, and would be more deserving of the awards if chosen.

Uchitel Apparently Fessing Up to Being With Tiger!

This Tiger Woods affair story is now in it's 7th day and becoming more and more smelly. Rachel Uchitel, the first alleged mistress, who initially denied a relationship with Woods, apparently will be holding a press conference and confirming a relationship with the world's greatest golfer. My first question is why is a press conference even necessary. Tiger issued a statement via his web site admitting "transgressions", etc. He's asked for privacy, and day by day amazingly another woman comes out of the woodwork. Admittedly if Tiger had been "clean" none of this would be an issue, but it all just seems to convenient and at this point a non-story except for the sordid details coming out from the women, including one who was apparently paid $150,000 for saving a voicemail from Tiger.

Yes Tiger being the world's greatest athlete has brought all of the fame and fortune that he's obviously chased and wanted. Now that Tiger's imperfections are out for all the world to see does it really improve the unemployment levels or turn the world on it's axis. All of this just seems like overkill with people dumping on Mr. Woods. At the end of the day he's still the world's greatest athlete, and he'll probably not lose any sponsors, and we'll lose the insight of of a man whose maximized all of his skills and really could give valid insight for all of us regarding maximizing our potential. Sadly Tiger will truly never trust the media again, and will be even more guarded making all of us worse for losing a piece of him.

Coming From Everywhere After Tiger!

I'm sure a week ago Tiger Woods never expected that the women would be coming out of the woodwork bragging about his exploits, text messages and voice mail messages. Well, welcome to the world of tabloid celebrity, Tiger. Jaimee Grubbs is the first woman to confirm an extramarital relationship with the best golfer in the world and she's taking her story to Us Weekly. Other stories of cover ups are surfacing, which are intended to sully Tiger's once impeccable reputation. Tiger is doing the best thing by keeping low, and surfacing next month when the new golf season begins.

He's now going through what other athletes have lived through such as Michael Jordan and ARod. His buddy Charles Barkley says Tiger should come before the cameras, make a statement and be done. I'm sure Tiger will do that when the time is right, but in the mean time life as he once knew it doesn't exist anymore.

Use of Gift Cards Take Down Sheila Dixon!

In the end Sheila Dixon, the Mayor of Baltimore was convicted of a single charge of using a $500 gift card intended for the needy. While Dixon's conviction is a misdemeanor and she was found innocent of the felony charges, she'll probably be forced out of office if and when she is sentenced. It's possible that she could delay the inevitable with appeals, but I would think that a quick resignation would be best for the city.

Kasim Reed New Mayor of Atlanta!

It looks like a run off was Kasim Reed's best friend, as it appears that he'll become the new mayor of Atlanta. With 100% of the precincts reporting Reed leads his challenger Mary Norwood by less than a percentage point (758 votes). Reed closed the gap on Norwood pretty quickly and ran a good race. Only 40 years old, Reed has his work cut out for him. Here's wishing him well.

Rachel Uchitel Speaks!

The New York Post has posted an interview with Rachel Uchitel the alleged Tiger Woods mistress. She essentially says that there's no relationship with Woods and that she's only met the golfer one time. Tiger indicated in his statement that he's not perfect, but this particular story smells. Tiger doesn't owe anyone an explanation regarding the occurrences of Friday morning, but media outlets simply will not let the story rest. I hear that the neighbor who called 911 has hired an attorney and will be holding a press conference this morning. Talk about overkill.

Still No Verdict In Baltimore Mayor Trial!

Jurors are still deadlocked in the theft trial of Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon. Yesterday jurors indicated that they could not come to a unanimous verdict on the charges, but indicated that they would come back today to continue deliberations. Dixon is on trial for theft or misuse of gift cards that were given to her, but intended for needy families. The longer it takes for jurors to arrive at a verdict the better things appear for Ms. Dixon, as jurors seem reluctant to convict her. The Baltimore Sun provides additional details on the proceedings.

Tiger Takes Control!

This weekend Tiger Woods became the focal point of the country for something other than golf after his early Friday morning car accident. The weekend has gone by and it appears that Woods has no plans to speak to police about the accident, which he doesn't have to do by law. His attorney has supplied the police with the required documentation, Woods issued a statement through his website, and he's moving on with business as usual. We'll know that it's business as usual if Tiger shows up for his annual golf tournament tomorrow, and opens it with the usual press conference. If Tiger is a no show, then the rumors and questions will continue.

Interview With Police Officer Who Arrived On Scene Of Tiger's Accident!

This is video of an interview with the police officer who arrived at the scene of Tiger Woods' accident.

Is Tiger Woods Being Set Up?

The Tiger Woods car accident story hit yesterday with a vengeance with bits and pieces of the apparent truth coming out by the hour. The latest twist of the story is that Tiger's wife Elin apparently caused his injuries and perhaps he was leaving his home to avoid a heated domestic dispute. The alleged dispute if true appears to have been over a National Enquirer report that Tiger is seeing another woman. The alleged side woman, Rachel Uchitel, has previously been linked to TV star David Boreanaz. The New York Daily News reports that Uchitel has posted on her Facebook page that the story is not true.

Tiger Woods is a human being, and I'm sure not perfect, but the occurrences of the past week are simply too bizarre for the #1 athlete in the world who guards his life and reputation as if he was President Obama. Just seems that things aren't always as they seem, and perhaps Tiger has made someone unhappy and they have it out for him. I'm sure this is one time that he would trade his celebrity for a little privacy.

Tyler Perry Does A Good Deed!

Tyler Perry gave to NAACP $1 million to commemorate the civil rights organizations 100 year anniversary. The donation, which will be distributed over 4 years, is the largest donation ever by an individual.

Vince Young, Back From Oblivion!

Just over a year ago Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young was ready to be left in the junk pile as a quarterback in the NFL. Despite being the previous season's Rookie of the Year, Young was considered a bust and his sanity was even questioned by the national media.

Last night Young led the Titans to their 4th straight victory, and now he's the toast of the town again. Young, was was a high school star in Houston and a college star at the University of Texas, is showing the world that his sanity is just fine and that he can indeed play quarterback in the "league." It's good to see that Vince Young overcame his obstacles from last year, and is playing well. It appears that he only needed time to sit on the sidelines and learn from a veteran like Kerry Collins before reclaiming his starters role. Any confidence that he lost during his struggles, he's regained and now appears ready to take the Titans on his shoulders into future successes.

Janet Heads Quietly Into Middle Age!

Janet Jackson opened the "American Music Awards" last night with a medley of her vast hits that span a 25 year period. Hard to believe it's been that long since "Control" set her career into orbit. Janet's performance last night showed that she's settling happily and securely into middle age. While she looked a little heavier and moved a little slower, she still wowed the crowd displaying enough moves and savvy to put most female performers to shame. You're not what you used to be Miss Jackson, but middle age is serving you well.

Oprah Ending Her Run!

Talk show queen Oprah Winfrey will be announcing today that she will be ending her talk show in September 2011. Oprah always has made the right moves, so I'm sure whatever her future holds she'll continue to grace us with her talent. One thing we can say for her is that she's definitely going out on top.

Jermaine Dupri Probably Still Laughing!

If Jermaine Dupri was watching his ex-girlfriend Janet Jackson's interview with Robin Roberts last night he probably had a couple of laughs. He stated on Twitter that he was mixing Usher records so obviously he didn't lose any sleep on Janet stating that they're no longer a couple but good friends. Janet really didn't want to deal with the JD question and seemed a little coy when responding. Since the two have been seen together in recent months, Janet's probably telling the world to mind their own business and that her and Jermaine are just fine.

Janet mastered her brother Michael's skill of not really saying much in a 45 minute interview, and the fact that she has the most beautiful smile makes it all easy to digest. Good to see JJ moving on with her life and career and just doing her. She's a legend who deserves peace.

Evan Chandler, Father Of MJ Accuser Commits Suicide!

Evan Jordan, father of Jordan Chandler, the boy who accused Michael Jackson of molesting him 17 years ago was found dead of a gunshot wound in a Jersey City Apartment on November 5. Michael Jackson's world was often bizarre while living, and it would be too simple to assume that things would change in death. The New York Post recounts the specifics of Chandler's world and the fact the Jackson allegedly paid his son $20 million to go away. Evan Chandler and his son Jordan were reportedly estranged at the time of his death, and the father was said to be in ill health.

Chicago School President Michael Scott's Death Ruled A Suicide!

Sad news continues to come from Chicago as School President's Michael Scott's body was found yesterday morning with a gunshot wound to his left temple. Described as an eternal optimist, Scott's death has rocked a school system that's dealt with violence and other controversies this year. The Chicago Sun-Times provides additional details on this very sad news.

Still No Progress 25 Years After Ben Wilson's Death!

Ben Wilson was considered the best high school basketball player in the country when he was killed in 1984 by gangs in Chicago. Everyone always talks about the senseless death of Len Bias, but Bias' death was due to the personal choice of ingesting cocaine. Wilson was killed due to senseless violence that 25 years later still permeates our urban areas. The Chicago Sun-Times profiles the lack of progress that has been made in Chicago Public Schools in the 25 years since Ben Wilson's death. Most people seem to think that things are even worse now than they were then. Gang violence continues to be rampant, drugs continue to lure our kids to quick money and education still seems to be at the bottom of the priority ladder.

Gucci Mane Violates Probation, Back In Jail!

Rapper Gucci Mane is sitting in an Atlanta jail today for violating terms of his probation according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Mane's probation violation isn't clear, but what is clear is that he's behind bars until at least May 2010. Mane, whose real name is Radric Davis originally went afoul of the law in 2005 when he hit a club promoter over the head with a pool stick. Last year he failed to complete his community service requirements associated with that case.

Being a hip-hop artist shouldn't be a hazardous occupation, but these talented entrepreneurs always seem to be in trouble with the law even after they've achieved a level of fame and fortune. Maybe one day they'll realize that have the fortune doesn't preclude anyone from following the basic laws of society.

Mike Tyson Arrested After Scuffle!

Mike Tyson was arrested yesterday after getting into a scuffle with paparazzi at a Los Angeles airport. Tyson was attempting to travel with his wife and daughter when a photographer apparently got too aggressive for his liking. Both Tyson and the photographer were booked and released. I'm sure Mike Tyson is trying to live a much simpler life, it's too bad that his celebrity brings attention that he's so trying to avoid.

What's Going On With Sammy Sosa?

Sammy Sosa's complexion has been the topic of conversation for the past few days, as his most recent photo from a public event shows his skin noticeably lighter. FoxSports reports that Sosa is blaming his appearance on a cosmetic skin cream and lighting. I guess we have to take Sosa's explanation at face value, but why would a person start having appearance issues at 41.

Does Katt Williams Seem Too Happy?

Comedian Katt Williams just appears to be too happy in this mug shot taken after he was arrested yesterday on burglary charges. Williams says that the arrest, which took place in Coweta County, Georgia at the home of music mogul Barry Hankerson was a "misunderstanding". An employee at the estate reported that Williams had stolen jewelry and personal items although the items haven't been located. Williams, who is in the Atlanta area filming a movie just seems to happy in his mug shot.

His erratic behavior over the last year is alarming on the surface, since Williams was reportedly admitted to a South Carolina psychiatric ward last November, but his publicist blamed it on exhaustion. It's not a good thing to enable people with obvious issues. The Atlanta Journal Constitution provides additional details on Mr. Williams' latest episode.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Diagnosed With Leukemia!

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has been diagnosed with leukemia according to the Los Angeles Times. The form of leukemia is called Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia, and is treatable with oral medication. He was diagnosed last December, and says that the long term prognosis is good. Hot flashes and constant sweating alerted Kareem that something was wrong and prompted him to seek medical attention.

Iverson Considering Retirement!

The Memphis Commercial Appeal reports that Allen Iverson is considering retiring instead of returning to his new team the Memphis Grizzlies. Iverson requested and was granted permission to leave the team for "personal reasons" over the weekend, however he has complained about his reserve role with the team after missing their first 3 games due to injury.

If this is indeed the end for Iverson, he had a great career. His inability to accept a reserve role will likely end his career many years too early.

"Precious" Setting Records!

"Precious" the critically acclaimed movie directed by Lee Daniels opened to 18 theatres this weekend but set a record by averaging over $100,000 per theatre generating total receipts of $1.8 million. The movie, an adaption of the book "Push" by Sapphire will continue to expand to additional theatres this week.

Morgan Freeman Settles Lawsuit!

The Memphis Commercial Appeal reports that actor Morgan Freeman has settled the lawsuit involving Demaris Meyer who was a passenger in her car that Freeman was driving last year when he lost control and flipped the car resulting in disabling injuries to Meyer. Terms of the settlement were not disclosed. Meyer's attorney Gloria Allred would only say that her client is pleased that the matter has been settled.

Michael Steele Feeling Pretty Good!

With Republicans winning governor elections in Virginia and New Jersey on Tuesday, Republican Party Chairman Michael Steele is feeling pretty good about himself and his party. The two wins clearly give the Republican party momentum heading into 2010, and put pressure on President Obama to advance his "Change" agenda. The wins in Virginia and New Jersey are clearly about the economy and the realization that Obama has a bigger challenge than perhaps he anticipated. With his health care package not likely to pass this year, it's all on our president to impact his "Change" or Republicans will have even more success in 2010 elections.

Atlanta Mayoral Election Headed To Runoff!

Atlanta Mayoral candidates Mary Norwood and Kasim Reed are headed for an election runoff on December 1 after Norwood failed to attain 50% of the vote in the mayoral election yesterday. Norwood received 45% of the popular vote while Reed received 37%. Norwood is attempting to become the first white mayor of Atlanta since 1973.

It will be interesting to see if the Atlanta electorate becomes polarized along racial lines, and the race could come down to who third place finisher Lisa Borders ultimately supports. It's politics, so the next month in Atlanta will not be boring for Norwood and Reed.

Rihanna Appearing On GMA and 20/20 This Week!

Rihanna will be appearing on "Good Morning America" Thursday and Friday morning and concluding her interview with Diane Sawyer on "20/20" Friday night. She will be discussing the Chris Brown episode and surely her new album which is scheduled to be released on November 23rd.

Iverson Makes Grizzlies Debut!

Allen Iverson made his season debut with his new team, the Memphis Grizzlies scoring 11 points in a loss to the Sacramento Kings. It will be interesting to see how long Iverson stays happy with a reduced role since the Grizzlies have a pretty good young shooting guard in O.J. Mayo. It's interesting to see the former M.V.P reduced to a footnote, as we continue to see older players simply hanging on for as long as they can.

"This Is It": $101 Million Worldwide!

Michael Jackson's concert rehearsal documentary "This Is It" did not disappoint at the box office, as it earned $101 million over the first 5 days of being released, including $32.5 million domestically. The solid numbers have given the film an extended run past it's original 2 weeks as distributors have extended the movie through the Thanksgiving weekend. The movie's success is a testament to the worldwide adoration that Jackson enjoyed.