Views In And Around Charlotte, NC

Saturday, August 9, 2008

King of Comedy Bernie Mac Dies at Age 50

One of our beloved comedians Bernie Mac born Bernard Jeffrey McCullogh died Saturday, August 9, 2008 in a Chicago area hospital.

Mac suffered from sarcoidosis, an inflammatory lung disease that produces tiny lumps of cells in the body's organs, but had said the condition went into remission in 2005. According to Bernie Mac’s publicists he died from complications due to pneumonia.

Bernie Mac was one of the Original Kings of Comedy. His fellow Kings were Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, and D.L. Hughley. He toured the country in this blockbuster hit show selling out concerts everywhere. The film was directed by filmmaker Spike Lee and filmed in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Even though Bernie Mac had been working in comedy for several years, it was his exposure on Russell Simmons Def Comedy Jam that opened a variety of doors.

Bernie Mac appeared on television sitcoms such as Moesha before landing his very own show. The Bernie Mac show premiered in 2001 on the Fox television network. It’s series ending in 2006.

He starred in films such as The Players Club, Mr. 3000, and Guess Who with Ashton Kutcher. Bernie Mac is probably better known for his role in Oceans’ 11, 12 and 13.

One of my favorite roles he’s ever played; was the role of the janitor in the movie Pride alongside terrific actor Terrence Howard.

I had the pleasure of reading Bernie Mac’s autobiography titled, “Maybe You Never Cry Again.” It is one of the most inspirational books you’ll ever read.

It’s filled with struggle, determination, and triumph. It would probably shock most people at how long and hard Bernie Mac had to work to get to where he wanted to be.

The obstacles he had to overcome losing his mother at the early age of 16. Being knocked down and getting back up all the while remaining a loyal and devoted husband and father.

Some on of my favorite quotes by Bernie Mac were:

“Bust your head till the white meat show.”
“I ain’t scared of you mother@%!*s.”
“I swear for Lord.”

Bernie Mac will be deeply missed by the entertainment community as well as fans alike. But no one will miss him more than his family whom he loved so much.

He is survived by his wife Rhonda McCullogh, daughter Je’Neice and granddaughter Jasmine.
Condolences nationwide go out to the Mac family. May he rest in peace.

Friday, August 8, 2008

John Edwards Comes Clean He Admits to Affair

Today Friday August 8, 2008 John Edwards came clean about his affair with Rielle Hunter a producer of one of his videos for his political campaign.

If Elizabeth Edwards has forgiven him and moved on then what business is it of ours?

It’s always going to be the business of the republicans because any ammunition they can get against the opposing candidates is always useful.

But what about the democrats the ones that believed in him and supported him? The ones who watched as he publicly denied the affair and pretended such a thought was preposterous.

The fact that John Edwards initially denied having an affair Ms. Rielle Hunter is what makes it look so terrible Now he just comes across as dishonest, but also human. But how many people would publicly admit to having an affair when asked unsuspectingly when they are not prepared to talk about the subject?

Knowing how the media can be of course they wouldn’t want to go through this publicly. The stories have already gotten out to hand. Infidelity is a private matter it’s not something that needs to be weighed in on by the world.

John Edwards cheated on Elizabeth Edwards; not the American people. They have made a choice to fight for their marriage and that must be respected. Forgiveness would have to come from Elizabeth Edwards and apparently it has.

Monday, August 4, 2008

Bar – B- Q King as featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives

Bar-B-Q King was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives one of my favorite shows on the food network. It’s hosted by Guy Fieri.

Bar-B-Q King is located right here in the Queen City Charlotte, North Carolina.

I’ve drove by The Bar-B-Q king several times while driving around the city of Charlotte. At times I wondered if it was still a working establishment. Being a big city girl I wasn’t too familiar with the drive in concept. I was curious as to how they worked but was too scared to ever try one.

While watching Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives I see Guy Fieri on my television screen raving about this Drive-In located right in here in Charlotte, North Carolina.

If you’ve had the pleasure of watching Guy’s show I know there are a multitude of places that he has visited that you just want to try for yourself.

Unfortunately, not all of them are located right in your own backyard. So when Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives featured the Bar-B-Q King I knew it was a place that I had to try out for myself.

I’ve never seen a food establishment that Guy didn’t like. Definitely wanting to see what the hype was all about I ventured out on my own.

So Guy Fieri put your money where your mouth is.

The first thing I wanted to do was try what they are famous for and that’s the Bar-B-Q. So I ordered a Bar-B-Q plate and a quarter Bar-B-Q chicken dinner. And yes I did have family members there to help me out.

I have to admit the Bar-B-Q chicken was different from any version of Bar-B-Q chicken that I have ever tasted. This particular Bar-B-Q chicken is deep fried first then dipped in their secret Bar-B-Q sauce that the owners use for their Bar-B-Q. It might sound strange but it works.

I do need to let you know that I am a huge fan of Bar-B-Q. And I have tasted some of the best Bar-B-Q that is out there.

Now this Bar-B-Q isn’t the best out there but it’s definitely one of the better ones here in Charlotte, NC.

If you’re expecting five star services—get over yourself. You’re only expected to get your eat on and drive away.

I have three categories in which I put a dining experience in.

1. Recommended – Meaning I would eat there again and recommend it to others.
2. Toss up – Means you have to decide for yourself by visiting the establishment.
3. Drive By – Means keep on driving pass the restaurant.

So how do I rate Bar-B-Q King? I would have to say: Recommended.

Until next time Bon appétit!

Monday, July 28, 2008

A Tyler Perry Movie – The Family that Preys

Tyler Perry is at it again, The Family That Preys is set to hit theatres September 12, 2008. While watching the preview for this movie, I could see the growth and development from Tyler’s first movie. I’m anxious and excited to see it in theatres opening weekend. With such wonderful actresses as Alfre Woodard, Kathy Bates and Sanaa Lathan how could he go wrong?

You have to admit Tyler Perry is definitely doing his thing. Tyler consistently puts out works in film, television and theatres. Plus he’s a song writer.

Check out the trailer for The Family That Preys here.