PDA Entertainment Search Results

Name Description
Bill Rafferty College basketball analyst for CBS Sports and ESPN and lead analyst for the New Jersey Nets on Fox Sports New York.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Popular Broadway, television and movie star, Sheryl Lee Ralph is no stranger to success; but among Black actresses, she may be the exception. She has starred in "It's A Living;" her own series "New Attitude;" in the comedy, "Designing Women;" and in the hit series, "Moesha." Her film credits include, "Sister Act II," "The Flintstones," "The Mighty Quinn," "Mistress," "The Distinguished Gentleman," "White Man's Burden," "Witch Hunt," and "Bogus" with Whoopi Goldberg.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Sheryl Lee Ralph is one of the most well liked, respected and recognizable celebrity faces. A triple threat Dreamgirl, this award winning actress, singer, and producer has added motivational speaker to her impressive list of credits, addressing churches, businesses, professional and women’s groups with her own unique blend of passion and inspiration. Her exceptional abilities extend from TV, concert halls, to feature films and the Broadway stage. Nominated for the coveted Tony Award and the Drama Desk Award for creating the role of “Deena Jones” in the landmark Broadway musical “Dreamgirls,” Ralph has starred in such feature films as The Distinguished Gentleman with Eddie Murphy, The Mighty Quinn with Denzel Washington, Mistress with Robert DeNiro, and Sister Act 2 with Whoopi Goldberg. Ralph won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in To Sleep with Anger with Danny Glover. She found immense popularity on TV starring in hits such as It’s a Living, Designing Women and Moesha. She broke new ground in the Showtime series, BarberShop, as the popular, post operative transsexual, Claire. Ralph brought a new face to the sufferings of war in the NBC hit series ER. Ralph is also the creator/producer of DIVAS Simply Singing! which after seventeen years of commitment has become one of the most important AIDS fundraisers in Hollywood, headlining such talent as Chaka Khan, Brenda Russell, Oleta Adams, Roberta Flack, Raven Symone, Melissa Manchester, Dianne Reeves, The PussyCat Dolls, Stacey "Fergie" Ferguson and many more. Ralph also is founder and creator of the very successful Jamerican Film Festival which has produced five Showtime Filmmaker Finalists in five years.
Sarah Ralston Sarah Ralston was born on September 2nd, 1986 in Ahwatukee, a suburb of Phoenix, Arizona where she continues to live as well in New York with her college sweetheart. Sarah graduated Magna Cum Laude from Arizona State University in 2007 at the age of 20 with a degree in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Women Studies. Sarah Ralston is the pretty hispanic church going feminist cast member who has never left Arizona any real length of time before joining The Real World Hollywood. Sarah was casted on the show at an open casting call at the Tempe Music Festival near the ASU campus with her friend Jackie on the application, she started off with I actually have half a brain, so I dont think you will be interested!. She also is a national finalist in speech and debate and has anchored the news in Phoenix for Cox Cable 11. Sarah spoke to the ASU Web Devil Newspaper in April 2008 about her decision to quit the show. College Lecture Topics Addiction, Body Image Issues, Christianity, Feminism, & Relationships
Sendhil Ramamurthy Sendhil Ramamurthy plays Mohinder Suresh on the hit show "Heroes". Since his mother, father and sister were all doctors, it's no wonder Ramamurthy initially followed in their footsteps. However while pursuing premed at Tufts University, the American hunk changed his focus after taking a college drama class in order to satisfy his arts requirement. After graduation, he studied at London's Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art and left with a comprehensive knowledge of the classics and his future wife — fellow thespian Olga Sosnovska — in tow. Due to his ethnic features, Ramamurthy was often invited to audition for what he deemed "stereotypical brown skin" roles: convenience store employees and terrorists. But he refused to be seen for these parts, opting instead to build his résumé slowly with meatier roles both on stage and in TV guest spots. Although Heroes creator Tim Kring originally intended to cast a fiftysomething actor in the role of genetics professor Mohinder Suresh, he rewrote the character once he saw Ramamurthy read for the part. It turned out to be a boon for both of their careers, as Heroes went on to be the breakout hit of the 2006-2007 television season with Ramamurthy as one of its breakout stars.
Louis Ramey Louis Ramey started doing stand up right after high school in Atlanta GA, and then started working the road after about three years of playing clubs in the Atlanta area. I quickly got a spot on "Show Time at the Apollo" which prompted me to move to New York for a short time. Realizing I was not ready for a true New York winter, I started working resorts in the Cayman Islands, St Thomas, St Maarten, and a stint in London. It was at this point clubs started closing all over the country. Louis started doing cruise ships and casinos for almost five years, always thinking of one day moving back to New York. In 1998 he finally made the move with a few thousand and some old contacts to try and make it as a New York comic. In 1999 I won The Aspen Comedy Arts award for "Best New Artist" By 2002 he had done Premium Blend and a Comedy Central Presents Louis Ramey, The View, and an appearance on the Tonight Show. Louis started working for Nick@Nite as Host of the "Road Crew" and stopped performing on the road for four years. When the show ended in 2006 Louis started targeting the college market, that year he did over one hundred college performances and won the 2007 APCA award for Best Standup performer. In 2008 he was a contestant on Last Comic Standing 6 and made it to the final five. That's about it for my history.
Louis Ramey Atlanta born and raised, while in college, Louis Ramey was bitten by the comeday bug. On a dar from his friends, h too the stage to tell a few jokes at a local jazz club. he was hooked immediately to the adrenaline rush of live performance. His US television appearences include Comedy Central Presents: Luis Ramey and Premium Blend. This is one show that shouldnt be missed.
Rich Ramirez Hispanic-American comedian who appeared in all major comedy clubs and cruise ships throughout the world. Rich Ramirez has also appeared on BET, VH-1 Comedy Central and many other television shows. A class Act!
Arnold Rampersad Historian and author of Arthur Ashe's memoirs, Days of Grace, Arnold Rampersad is the author of The Art and Imagination of W.E.B. DuBois, Jackie Robinson, A Biography and The Life of Langston Hughes for which he won a National Book Award and was a Pulitzer Prize finalist.
Bill Rancic Winner of NBC's The Apprentice Bill Rancic is one of the world's youngest and most successful entrepreneurs. Award winning TV personality, financial correspondent and best-selling author, Bill regularly lends advice to everyone from Donald Trump to the local professional with a dream and an idea. And he does it with style and sophistication. In addition to regularly appearing in The Board Room on the popular NBC prime time show The Apprentice. Bill has been a premier guest on NBC's Today Show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,CNBC and quoted in every major national and daily newspaper outlet. Most recently, Bill completed his second book, titled Beyond the Lemonade Stand which was written to help educate and motivate young people around the world about the value of money and how to leverage your skills, talents and abilities at an early age. Beyond the Lemonade Stand Is the follow up to the New York Times best-selling book in 2003, titled You're Hired: How To Succeed in Business and Life from the Winner of The Apprentice, which chronicled Bill's successful life, experience and proven advice. Bill Rancic founded the successful company, cigarsaroundtheworld.com eight years ago in a 400 sq. ft. studio apartment. Today, it is a thriving multi-million dollar national operation. The son of educators, he is a true entrepreneur, who originally earned his way through college by starting a boat wash and wax business in the Chicago area. In his spare time, Bill enjoys skydiving and scuba diving and travels the world speaking to students at universities and businesses around the country.
James Randi Internationally recognized speaker James Randi speaks on the role of science in the world today, and the dangers of misinformation. He is known for his energetic and thought provoking speaking style. Internationally known occult debunker, magician, escape artist and author of such books as Flim-Flam - The Truth About Unicorns, Parapsychology and Other Delusions and The Faith Healers.
Sally Jessy Raphael Nationally syndicated television talk show host.
Stuart Rappaport Winner of the 2005 Jewish Week’s Comedy Contest, Stuart is an orthodox Jew whose comedy is a bit unorthodox. He has been doing stand-up for over 15 years and has entertained groups from The Main Street Synagogue, in Columbus, OH to Chabad of the Five Towns. He opened for Modi at the Riverdale Jewish Center last year and will be the featured act on April 5th at the “Ramada Marco Polo” in Miami Beach Florida. Stuart is an Optometrist by profession, and he brings his unique perspective to his comedy. Stuart sings with “The Meshuga-daddies” a barber-shop quartet, acapella group. He has starred in many regional theater productions, from “Fiddler On The Roof” to Neil Simon comedies, such as “Last Of The Red-Hot Lovers” and “Broadway Bound.” Stuart is a cantor for a synagogue in Providence, Rhode Island. He has also written a few original songs, as well as some musical parodies.
William Rasberry Washington Post journalist whose political and urban affairs column is nationally syndicated. Time magazine has hailed him as "the most respected Black voice on any white U.S. newspaper."
Ahmad Rashad Popular television sports color commentator and former NFL football star.
Phylicia Rashad Talented actress and entertainer who starred for many years on "The Cosby Show."
Scott Rasmussen Co-founder of the ESPN cable sport network and motivational business speaker. Topic: The Birth of ESPN: Sustaining the Entrepreneurial Spirit.
William Raspberry Washington Post columnist whose political and urban affairs column is nationally syndicated. Time magazine has hailed him as "the most respected Black voice on any white U.S. newspaper."
Jack Ratz Jack Ratz was a boy of fourteen when his hometown in Latvia fell to the Nazi forces, only a few years after the Russians had brought communism to the peaceful country. Despite the murder of his mother and four brothers, Ratz remembers the endless miracles he witnessed during the ordeal: how he and his father survived the Nazis' attack on their ghetto, how they were saved from a death camp by the Russian Red Army, and how they were able to escape to the West to live long and wonderful lives.
Peter Raven Peter H. Raven, one of the worlds leading botanists, served the AAAS Board as president elect, president, and chairman of the board and has been the director of the Missouri Botanical Garden and a Professor of Botany at Washington University since 1971. Prior to that, he was a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Stanford University. He was a member of President Bill Clintons Committee of Advisors on Science and Technology, and served as president of the XVI International Botanical Congress in 1999, where he received the Engler medal for distinguished lifetime service to plant taxonomy. He also served for twelve years as home secretary of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences. Raven is the recipient of numerous environmental prizes and awards. His publications, both popular and scientific, include leading textbooks in botany and the environment. Described by Time magazine as a "Hero for the Planet," he champions research around the world to preserve endangered plants and is a leading advocate for conservation and a sustainable environment. Raven completed his undergraduate work at the University of California at Berkeley and received a Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles.
Rachael Ray Rachael Ray is an Emmy-winning television personality and author who currently hosts the syndicated series Rachael Ray. In addition, she currently hosts (either in first-run or reruns) at least four different programs on cable television's Food Network (30 Minute Meals, $40 a Day, Inside Dish, and Rachael Ray's Tasty Travels), and has authored a series of cookbooks based on the 30 Minute Meals concept.
Neil and Adrian Rayment Neil & Adrian Rayment portray The Twins in the smash hit movie The Matrix Reloaded. The hippest villains this side of Agent Smith, The Twins are killing machines who can vaporize and move through walls and floors. They work for The Merovingian and effect ghoulish faces when they're on the prowl. Pale, white-haired and actual twins, Neil and Adrian are black belts and martial-arts experts. Appearing in costume as The Twins, they lecture about their role in the Matrix Reloaded and demonstrate some of their martial-arts moves and show clips from the movie.
Simply Red Simply Red are an English pop band. Their style draws influences from pop, rock, jazz, lovers rock, and blue-eyed soul. Over time, the name "Simply Red" has come to refer less to a specific group of musicians, and is widely regarded as a name for Mick Hucknalls recordings
Jasper Redd A native of Tennessee, Jasper Redd began his comedy career in the city of San Francisco. Known for his quirks, you may have seen Jasper on Comedy Centrals Premium Blend or performing with his comedy foursome, the Brainwash All-Stars. In 2005 he has hailed as one of the standout New Faces at Montreals Just for Laughs Festival, and has been a featured performer in the Comedians of Comedy U.S. tour.
Robert Redford Internationally acclaimed movie star and director.
Lynn Redgrave Dynamic star of stage, screen and television.
Ishmael Reed Well known novelist, essayist and poet, Ishmael Reed is one of today's pre-eminent African American literary figures.
Pam Reed In July 2002, Ultramarathoner, mother of three children and a step mom of two, Pam Reed shocked the long-distance running world when she won the world’s most grueling race, the Badwater 135-mile trek from Death Valley to the portal of Mt. Whitney, by five hours and broke the existing women’s record by 1 hour, 51 minutes. One year later, in even hotter then the 135-degree temperatures for the 28-hour climb from the hottest desert floor on earth, she became the first women ever to defend a Badwater title-again beating many of the world’s finest men and women Ultra-marathoners. Reed is a survivor of Anorexia Nervosa, an eating disorder disease that affects over 3 million people in the United States. She recognizes many parallels between her life race to conquer this condition and the challenge of competitive racing.She is proud both personally and professionally of her great accomplishments in these areas and discusses her condition without reservation. She hopes that others will find strength in her example, strive to overcome similar difficulties, and go forward to become their personal best. She has emerged from her life threatening condition to find purpose in her own life (through running and raising her kids) and now helps teens, young adults and women who are afflicted with eating disorders.In March 2005, Reed completed a 300 mile run. “It was the coolest experience running I ever had”, said Reed minutes after completing the 300 mile run that lasted from an early Friday morning through Monday afternoon. It took 80 hours, with no sleep.Reed has been featured in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Running Times, Sports Illustrated, Associated Press and has appeared on Late Night with David Letterman and CBS’s Sixty Minutes and CNN.
Brian Regan Critics and peers agree, Brian Regan has distinguished himself as one of the premier comedians in the country. The perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality, Brian fills theaters nationwide with fervent fans that span generations. Releasing two critically acclaimed hour Comedy Central specials and DVDs in as many years - 2008s "The Epitome of Hyperbole," and 2007s Brian's non-stop theater tour has visited more than 80 cities each year since 2005 and continues through 2009. It is the quality of his material, relatable to a wide audience and revered by his peers, which continues to grow Brian's fan base. With his first appearance on "The Late Show with David Letterman" in 1995, Brian solidified his place on the show and recently made his 20th appearance. He also includes regular visits with Conan O'Brien on his schedule.
Dr. Judith Reichman Author, lecturer and medical correspondent for NBC's Today show. Dr. Reichman is a practicing obstetrician/gynecologist who speaks and writes about women's health issues. She is the author of: I'm Too Young to Get Old; I'm Not In The Mood; Relax This Won't Hurt-Painless Answers to Women's Most Pressing Health Questions.
Dr. Judith Reichman Author, lecturer and medical correspondent for NBC's Today show. Dr. Reichman is a practicing obstetrician/gynecologist who speaks and writes about women's health issues. She is the author of: I'm Too Young to Get Old; I'm Not In The Mood; Relax This Won't Hurt-Painless Answers to Women's Most Pressing Health Questions.
Tim Reid Emmy nominated actor, director, writer and producer, Tim Reid co-starred in the television sitcom, "WKRP in Cincinnati," in the Warner Brothers series, "Sister Sister," and in numerous feature films and in the theater. He is the author of a book of poetry entitled As I Feel It.
Jacque Reid Jacque Reid is currently a news correspondent on the nationally syndicated radio program, the Tom Joyner Morning Show. In addition, Reid is currently a guest host on the ABC daytime syndicated program, The View. Prior to that, Reid served as co-host of the nationally syndicated radio show, the Steve Harvey Morning Show. Jacque came to radio from CNN Headline News, and BET Nightly News, where she was known as the face of the former flagship evening news program. As co-host of the Steve Harvey Morning Show, she served as the feminine mystique adding balance to the witty banter of her male counterparts, comedians Steve Harvey and Nephew Tommy Miles. While the principal anchor of BET Nightly News, Reid brought a wealth of experience and talent along with a stylish, contemporary presence to a national cable newscast on a daily basis. She covered major news stories that included one-on-one interviews with President George W. Bush, former POW Shoshanna Johnson, Democratic Presidential Candidate John Kerry, and former President Bill Clinton. She was the first to interview Luther Vandross' mother as the singer lay in the hospital recovering from a near fatal stroke. She also anchored team coverage of the Trent Lott controversy, and hosted a live half-hour roundtable discussion following his televised interview on BET. During the 2004 Republican National Convention, Jacque joined CNN's Larry King Live and worked as a guest correspondent and contributor. Reid has also been an occasional fill-in anchor and featured correspondent for CBS News and had previously worked in those capacities on CBS' The Early Show, providing reports on the days hot topics. In 2005, Reid also filed stories for the CBS Weekend Evening News, and worked as a fill-in anchor for the CBS overnight news program, Up To The Minute. In addition to news events, from 2002 - 2005, Reid provided special coverage each year for the BET Awards Show, hosting a one-hour interview special, and anchoring a special live broadcast outside of L.A.'s Kodak Theatre following the program. Her celebrity interviews have included such A list stars like Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx.
Daphne Maxwell Reid Daphne Maxwell Reid is known as Aunt Viv, the matriarch on NBC's hit comedy, "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air". She is also known for her role of mortician/embalmer Hannah Griffin on the CBS comedy series "Frank's Place" in which she co-starred with her husband, Tim Reid. She teamed up with Tim again when she starred as Mickie Dennis on "Snoops" for CBS. In 1998-99, she played the bawdy hooker Eartha on Showtime’s “Linc’s” which was created and produced by her husband and shot at New Millennium Studios in Virginia and Paramount Studios. Currently, she reoccurs as Mrs. Hunter on UPN’s “Eve”. With her husband, actor/writer/producer Tim Reid, and two other Virginia businessmen, Reid co-founded and is a principal partner in New Millennium Studios, the first full-service film studio in Virginia. The first of three phases of a 60-acre project including a 15,000 square foot soundstage, a state-of-the-art post production facility and a 25-acre back-lot was completed and opened on July 12, 1997. Reid has served as New Millennium Studios’ COO and Business Affairs principal, helping with designing, building and growing the new company from the ground up to a $7 million facility in six years, including over $1.5 million in revenues in 2001. To date, New Millennium Studios’ founders have produced two feature films, Asunder; and For Real, both of which Ms. Reid served as Executive Producer; a television series, Linc’s; a syndicated television special, American Legacy Television, which has become a Video Collection for Blockbuster, Inc; over 40 commercials; and have hosted numerous television and feature films shot at their facility. Low cost, quality content Creation is the focus of the venture and the ownership and distribution/exploitation of intellectual properties is the goal. Toward that effort, New Millennium Studios has created Obsidian Home Entertainment to distribute film titles both theatrically and in home video/DVD. The new Television division at New Millennium is creating original programming for the new cable network, TV One including the “Cowboys of Color” and “Gospel Challenge” series.
Uwe Reinhardt Respected economist and authority on health care reform.
Mike Reiss Mike Reiss has won four Emmy Awards for his work on The Simpsons, the wacky animated series that has kept America laughing for more than a decade and earned Time magazine's vote as "the greatest TV show of the twentieth century." During his eleven seasons on the show, Reiss penned a dozen scripts and produced over 200 episodes. His other television credits include The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, Alf, Eddie Murphy's The PJ's and It's Garry Shandling's Show, where he earned an ACE award for writing and producing. Reiss is also the co-creator of The Critic, an animated series starring Jon Lovitz as a lovable movie critic. The well-reviewed series has been running on Comedy Central for five years. Reiss also created Queer Duck, the animated adventures of a gay duck. An Internet hit with rave reviews in the U.S. and Europe, the series recently made the jump to the Showtime network. Culled from more than two decades of creating the funniest and most outrageous shows on television, Reiss' presentation is a unique glimpse inside the cutting edge of entertainment, including rare video clips from The Simpsons and The Critic. He takes audiences inside the lives of Springfield's first family, revealing how The Simpsons was almost cancelled before it hit the air, secret trivia of the show, insane dealings with network censors, and lots of juicy gossip about celebrity guest stars. Reiss also delves into the current state of television programming, describing with his characteristic wit why TV is so rotten and what steps need to be taken to bring the medium back to life. A former editor of both The Harvard Lampoon and The National Lampoon, Reiss continues as a consulting producer on The Simpsons. In addition, he is a frequent contributor to Esquire and Games Magazine, and is an award-winning mystery writer. He has published four children's books, including the surprise best seller How Murray Saved Christmas, a Christmas story for Jewish kids. His latest work is Santa Claustrophobia. He has lectured on comedy and animation at more than two dozen colleges, as well as the Smithsonian Institution.
Sonya Renee Sonya Renee is easily the most distinguished, accomplished and recognizable female in the world of Slam Poetry, and rightly so. After a meteoric rise to poetry superstardom in 2004, Sonya has redefined the role and impact of women in slam since her whirlwind arrival on the scene, consistently ranking at the top of every major national and international poetry slam every year since then. Sonya's success can be attributed to her commitment to writing poetry that stays true to her roots as a social activist and women's rights advocate. The socially conscious wordsmith became the National Poetry Slam Champion only 4 months into her slam career in '04, and followed this amazing achievement with back to back top 8 finishes at the Individual World Poetry Slam Championship, a 2nd place finish at the International Poetry Slam Championship in 2005, and a 1st place finish at the Four Continents European National Slam Championship in 2006. Sonya put her socially conscious words into action by performing in front of over 1 million spectators in Washington D.C. alongside Hillary Clinton at a historic 2004 March for Women's Rights Rally. The First Lady of Slam has also seen commercial success with appearances on HBO's Def Poetry Jam, and the hit reality series "Monique's Fat Chance" on the Oxygen Network.
Return to the Source An affirmation of the creative and artistic expression of African American people, "Return to the Source," a musical ensemble, celebrates the history of African American music, from spirituals to freedom songs, from blues to jazz, gospel and today's music including "rap."
Debbie Reynolds Vivacious star of stage, screen and television.
Barbara Reynolds Award-winning journalist, nationally syndicated columnist, television news commentator and an ordained minister. She is the author of two books, Jesse Jackson: America's David; and And Still We Rise, a book which includes interviews with fifty Black American role models.
Harold Reynolds Harold Reynolds is a former second baseman in Major League Baseball. He was a studio analyst on ESPN's Baseball Tonight for over ten years until he was fired in July 2006. Reynolds spent the first 10 years of his professional career in the majors with the Seattle Mariners from 1983 to 1992. He then moved to the Baltimore Orioles in 1993 and then to the California Angels the following season in 1994. Reynolds was an All-Star in 1987 and 1988, led the American League in stolen bases with 60 in 1987, in triples with 11 in 1988, and in at-bats with 642 in 1990. He was the only player other than Rickey Henderson to lead the American League in stolen bases during any season in the 1980s. Reynolds was a career .258 hitter with 21 home runs and 353 RBI in 1374 games. A superb fielder, Reynolds regularly led the league in double plays turned and won three Gold Glove awards.
Busta Rhymes The most idiosyncratic personality in rap and possessor of its most recognizable delivery, a halting, ragga-inspired style with incredible complexity, inventiveness, and humor, Busta Rhymes formed Leaders of the New School in 1990 and released two albums with the group before breaking out with a 1996 solo hit single, "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check." Born in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, in 1972 of Jamaican heritage (a definite influence on his rapping style), Busta moved to Long Island in 1983 and, at Uniondale High School, met up with MCs Charlie Brown, Dinco D., and Cut Monitor Milo. Inspired by fellow Long Islanders Public Enemy and Eric B. & Rakim, the foursome united as Leaders of the New School and signed a deal with Elektra Records right out of the gate, when Busta was only 17 years old. Much respected in the hip-hop underground for their Afrocentric philosophy and tough rapping styles, Leaders of the New School debuted in 1991 with Future Without a Past but released only one more album, 1993's T.I.M.E., before breaking up the following year. Out on his own for the first time, Busta called on some friends, appearing on A Tribe Called Quest's "Scenario," the incredible remix of Craig Mack's "Flava in Ya Ear" (also featuring Notorious B.I.G. and LL Cool J), as well as other projects with Boyz II Men, Mary J. Blige, and TLC. He also appeared in the 1995 John Singleton film Higher Learning and earned a solo contract with Elektra. Busta's first album, The Coming, proved a huge hit; the single "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check" hit the Top Ten and pushed the album into gold-record territory. His second album, When Disaster Strikes, debuted at number three in September 1997. Extinction Level Event followed a year later, and in mid-2000, Busta released Anarchy while appearing on the silver screen in a remake of the blaxploitation classic Shaft. ~ John Bush, All Music Guide
Jim Donovan...... Rhythmic Motivation with Jim Donovan of Rusted Root Jim Donovan the primitive howl he heard in that coffee can was evolving into a divine whisper, one that sent him into the University?s classical music program and into the waiting arms of those with whom he would create Rusted Root. Over the past fifteen years Rusted Root has made millions of people all over the globe dance, smile and sweat. They have sold in excess of three million recordings, made countless trips around North America where they were blessed to share the stage with such Rock and Roll legends as Santana, Page and Plant, Sting, Dave Matthews Band, The Allman Brothers, The Grateful Dead and many others. They have appeared on numerous national TV shows, including MTV, FX, David Letterman, Conan O'Brien VH-1?s Hard Rock Live and the CBS Morning Show. Their music has been featured on numerous television shows as well as major motion films such as Ice Age, Mathilda, Twister and the PBS Web of Life Documentary. On his own Donovan has released 3 solo CDs as well as 4 instructional drumming CDs. he has also recorded with with Triloka recording artist Krishna Das on his highly acclaimed CD ?Live on Earth?. Donovan's most recent CD Revelation #9 was nominated for 2004 Electronica Album of the Year by Just Plain Folks Songwriters organization. Fulfilling his desire to share the power of rhythm first hand to people, Donovan has built a series of educational drumming workshop programs that he teaches across the US at universities, festivals, schools, corporations and specialty venues. He is an adjunct professor at Saint Francis University and is the current director of drumming at the New York Institute of Dance and Education. He is a featured columnist in Drum! Magazine, the worlds number one drumming magazine. He was nominated for ?Best Rock Pop Percussionist? in the 2004 Drum! Magazine Readers poll. 2005 and 2006 finds Donovan expanding his musical world into two new performance projects: the highly acclaimed Drum the Ecstatic International Tour and The Drummer and the Dancer International Tour. Donovan's two new live performance shows continue to break new ground as they combine world class musicians from all over the globe, astonishing choreographed dance and multimedia. Donovan's current media projects In process due out in 2006 are his first Instructional djembe DVD titled Rhythmic Foundation, Drum the Ecstatic Live CD and The Rhythmic Mantra Drum and Chant Meditation CD.
Mark Ribowsky Prolific author and freelance writer Mark Ribowsky has written 12 books and many articles for Playboy, Penthouse, TV Guide, People, etc. He has written about music, sports, and pop culture subjects, and 18 years ago he looked into the bizarre life of legendary music producer Phil Spector. Now Spector is on trial for murder and the details of his life are more poignant and revealing than ever into the mind and motivations of a madman/genius.
Sarah Rice Sarah Rice is 22 years old while being born and raised in Orange County she now lives in San Francisco California. Sarah Rice acts as the knowledgeable counciler which provides support and advice to the other cast members on The Real World Brooklyn. Sarah went to The Real World casting call audition in San Francisco after hearing about it on the radio along her thinking she had nothing else to do. On the show she volunteered at The Gay and Lesbian Center in New York by initiating an art therapy program.Sarah previously only dated women but is now exclusive with her current boyfriend. She looks forward to competing in a future Real World Road Rules Challeneg. Her father, of whom she has distanced herself from due to sexual abuse, got the phone number of The Real World Brooklyn house by her aunt NOT production. College Lecture Topics Sexual Abuse, Diversity, & LGBT Issues
Adrienne Rich Award winning author, feminist and poet.
Jeff Richards Comedian Jeff Richards, a featured player on NBC s variety comedy Saturday Night Live. Before joining the cast of SNL, Richards performed stand-up comedy and impressions in clubs across the country, including The Improvisation and The Comedy Store. He has also appeared on Late Friday and The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn. Richards plays the messy "Drunk Girl" on SNL and does impressions of Bill O'Reilly, Charlie Rose, David Letterman, Garry Shandling, and Kevin Spacey.
Jeremy Rifkin Social critic, futurist, public policy expert and environmentalist.
Pat Riley Leading NBA basketball coach and an outstanding motivational speaker.
Lisa Rinna Lisa Rinna "Merged" on Lifetime TV & "Dancing with the Stars" With her exotic looks and prodigious talent, Lisa Rinna has become one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood. In addition to hosting SOAPnet's talk show, "Soap Talk" — which earned her two Daytime Emmy Award nominations — Rinna hosts the new Lifetime show "Merge." Rinna is known to many as Billie Reed, the free-spirited character she played on NBC's daytime hit "Days of Our Lives" throughout the 1990s and in 2002. She portrayed the love-to-hate-her character Taylor McBride on Fox Network's long-running nighttime smash "Melrose Place." She also starred in two Lifetime movies: "Another Woman’s Husband" and "Sex, Lies & Obsession," opposite husband Harry Hamlin. A native of Medford, Oregon, Rinna loves outdoor activities and stays active with kickboxing, yoga, scuba diving, Pilates and horseback riding. She also loves fashion and has a clothing boutique named Belle Gray, after the middle names of her two daughters. Rinna resides in Los Angeles with her husband and children.
Jack Del Rio Jack Del Rio is the second-youngest head coach in NFL history and has made his mark with the Jacksonville Jaguars since his start with them in 2003. With Del Rio as head coach, the Jacksonville defense ranks fourth in the league over the past four seasons in yards allowed, third in points allowed, while the offense is sixth in rushing yards and third in fewest turnovers. Although Del Rio has made a career out of playing and coaching college and professional football, he has also been a dedicated philanthropist. Del Rio and his family have been extremely active in raising and distributing money for over 15 organizations and events. With his generosity and dedication to helping others, Del Rio was named to the prestigious University of North Florida Brooks College of Health Dean’s Council and is a member of The Laureate Society of Jacksonville. . Articles • “Del Rio's aggressive fourth-down decisions paying off for Jaguars Biography Del Rio was named the second head coach in Jaguars history on January 17, 2003. Now in his 22nd year in the NFL and his 11th in coaching, he has spent 25 seasons playing and coaching in college and professional football. During that time Del Rio has played for, coached with, and learned from some of the best coaches in all of football. He was recruited to play at Southern California by John Robinson, and in the NFL he played under Bum Phillips, Jim Mora, Frank Gansz, Jimmy Johnson and Dennis Green. Del Rio, 44, had the longest playing career among the league’s eight current head coaches who also played in the NFL. His 11 seasons top Herman Edwards (10), Gary Kubiak (9), Ken Whisenhunt (9), Dick Jauron (8), Jeff Fisher (5), Tony Dungy (3) and Sean Payton (10). This year Del Rio was appointed to serve as a member of the NFL Coaches Sub-committee to the powerful NFL Competition Committee. He has participated in many hours of committee meetings and discussions to help advance the game. In taking over the Jaguars in 2003, Del Rio was the architect of a defense that improved to sixth overall in the NFL, and second against the run. From 1999 to 2001, Del Rio served as linebackers coach for the Baltimore Ravens, helping the team win Super Bowl XXXV over the New York Giants. Del Rio began his coaching career in New Orleans under Ditka, spending two seasons as assistant strength coach in 1997 and linebackers coach in 1998. Del Rio was drafted in the third round (68th overall) by the Saints in 1985, when he was named to the NFL’s All-Rookie team and earned the Saints’ Rookie of the Year award. Following two seasons in New Orleans, Del Rio played for the Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings. An 11-year NFL veteran, Del Rio finished his career with 1,078 tackles, 12 quarterback sacks, 13 interceptions and more than 100 consecutive starts between 1989 and 1994. He went to the playoffs once with the Cowboys and three times with the Vikings. Del Rio was a four-year starter from 1981 to ‘84 at Southern California, where he earned consensus All-America honors as a senior and was runner-up for the Lombardi Award. Drafted out of high school by the Toronto Blue Jays in 1981, Del Rio batted .340 while playing catcher on Southern California's baseball team in 1983 and ‘84. He was a teammate of current Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Randy Johnson and former major league slugger Mark McGwire. Del Rio graduated from Hayward (Calif.) High School. He holds a political science degree from the University of Kansas, which he earned while playing for the Chiefs. Born April 4, 1963 in Castro Valley, Calif., he and his wife, Linda, have three daughters, Lauren, Hope and Aubrey, and a son, Luke. PHILANTHROPY The Del Rio Family has been extremely active in Jacksonville since arriving in 2003. Together they have been instrumental in raising and distributing money for numerous organizations. The family supports the American Cancer Society and are members of The Laureate Society of Jacksonville, for those who give $10,000 or more to the American Cancer Society. The Del Rios raised funds for the Seamark Ranch through sales of the 2003 JagNet Cookbook, and through the 2004 Jack Del Rio Charity Golf Classic. They have also helped to raise money through the American Cancer Society Relay for Life and Freedom Alliance Fund. A list of organizations the family has supported includes Wolfson Children’s Hospital, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Families First, The Salvation Army, Cystic Fibrosis, The Ronald McDonald House, Devereaux Day School, St. Catherine Laboure Manor, and Hubbard House. In 2007 Del Rio was named to the prestigious University of North Florida Brooks College of Health Dean’s Council, joining several executives from local companies. Del Rio participated in the 2006 Murray Brothers Caddyshack Charity Golf Tournament in St. Augustine to benefit St. Vincent’s Foundation Mobile Health Outreach Ministry and Brave Kids. In addition, Del Rio served as the honorary chairman for a Hayward High Football Alumni Golf Tournament in June of 2007 to raise money for his alma mater’s program. He is part of the Hayward High Football Alumni, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation founded by a group of former Hayward High School players for the purpose of supporting the academic and athletic development of the young men in the community .
Chita Rivera Well-known Hispanic singer, dancer and actress, Ms. Rivera has starred on Broadway, in films and on television.
Dennis Rivera Hispanic leader, director of the Rainbow Coalition and the influential president of the largest health care workers union in the United States. Dennis Rivera also writes a column on social and public policy issues for El Diaro La Pensa.
Geraldo Rivera Well known Hispanic talk show host and controversial investigative journalist.
Ignacio Rivera Ignacio Rivera is a Queer, gender shifting, Trans- Entity, Black Boricua, lecturer, activist, filmmaker and performance artist. Ignacio has shared their poetry, spoken word and storytelling for over 10 years. Ignacio has been performing their one-person shows, Dancer and Lagrimas de Cocodrilo/Crocodile Tears internationally. As a lecturer/ trainer, Ignacio has spoken on such topics of racism, sexism, homo/transphobia, transgender issues, trans 101, sexual liberation, anti oppression, anti-violence, multi-issue organizing and more. Ignacio also consultants with various LGBT and non violence organizations in New York City. As a filmmaker, Ignacio debuted their first experimental short, Crossing in August of 2007. Crossing is an experimental adult short about crossing the realm of normality and kink. It is a narrative short that explores opinions on negotiation, communication and kink. Ignacio will be sharing their new short, They. It will be viewed at Mix New York City Queer Experimental Film Festival, in October 2008. They, is an experimental short, using archival footage, about one persons journey through their fluid and loose gender expression. Ignacio is one of the founding board member of Queers for Economic Justice, a progressive non-profit organization committed to promoting economic justice in a context of sexual and gender liberation.
Phil Rizzuto Legendary Hall of Fame baseball player.
Tony Robbins For more than a quarter of a century, Anthony Robbins has served as an advisor to leaders around the world. A recognized authority on the psychology of leadership, negotiations, organizational turnaround, and peak performance, Tony Robbins has been honored for his strategic intellect and humanitarian endeavors. His non-profit Anthony Robbins Foundation' provides assistance to the homeless, elderly and inner-city youth, and feeds more than one million people in nine countries every year through its international holiday Basket Brigade. Robbins has directly impacted the lives of nearly 50 million people from 80 countries with his best-selling books and audiotape products, public speaking engagements, and live appearances. World Peace Negotiator & Humanitarian Anthony Robbins currently serves as Vice Chairman of Health, Education, and Science for the United Nations/Research Center for the International Council for Caring Communities ICCC) NGO. Anthony Robbins has worked with political and business leaders in diverse world communities such as South Africa, England, Indonesia, Cuba, Venezuela, and the United States of America. Through his strategies for Leadership in Times of Crisis and his systems for Indirect Negotiations, Anthony Robbins has participated in negotiations that have broken the patterns of violence and de-escalated the rhetoric that invites it. Anthony Robbins has worked on teams that not only help mitigate further devastation and facilitate peaceful decision-making among conflicting parties, but even inspire conflicting parties to create a mutually beneficial and compelling vision that is aligned with their respective values and raises the standards by which they live.
Cavett Robert One of the top business speakers in America in the field of human engineering and motivation.
Wess Roberts Business and management consultant and author or such well known books as The Leadership Secrets of Attila the Hun and Make it So: Leadership Lessons from Star Trek, The Next Generation.
Bari-Ellen Roberts One of America's most courageous African-Americans who has been hailed as a "modern day Rosa Parks," Bari-Ellen Roberts, a former executive with Texaco, made national headlines when she sued the giant oil company for racial discrimination. After a long court battle Texaco agreed to pay Bari-Ellen and fourteen hundred other African-Americans one hundred and seventy six million dollars, which made it the largest discrimination settlement in the United States corporate history. The author of Roberts vs. Texaco: The True Story of Race in Corporate America.
Steve Roberts Respected broadcast journalist CNN news anchor, political analyst and nationally syndicated newspaper columnist for the New York Daily News. He is the co-author with his wife, Cokie Roberts of the best selling book, From This Day Forward.
Tara Roberts Hip, young and happening, Tara Roberts is a young African American woman whose personal mission as Lifestyle Editor of Essence magazine is to include the voices, stories and ideas of Black women under 30. Tara's article "Am I The Last Virgin?" was so controversial and generated so much reader feedback that she has compiled and edited a new book entitled,Am I The Last Virgin?: African American Reflections on Sex and Love.
Robin Roberts ABC sports commentator on "Good Morning America" and host of ESPN's Sports Center, Robin Roberts is one of the most versatile commentators in sports. She is also the current host for the Emmy Award winning anthology program, "ABC's Wide World of Sports."
Kevin Roberts Kevin Roberts is THE FOOD DUDE on San Diego's own 103.7 FREE FM, Friends of Fox and ESPN's Cold Pizza. Listen to his streamlined radio show every Saturday from 3:00 - 4:00 PM. www.1037freefm.com Current spokesman for Frank's RedHot sauce, Chef/Writer Kevin Roberts has been cooking as long as he’s been able to reach the counter. He perfected his craft as a cook for television and extreme sporting events. After fruitlessly searching the market for cookbooks geared to young adults, Kevin decided to come to the aid of all his hungry peers in search of real food (not wrapped in greasy paper). The result, Munchies, is the beginning of a series designed to boost the confidence of the cuisine impaired. Kevin proves that it’s not only cool to cook, but fun too, giving readers food freedom with recipes that are cheap, simple, tasty and healthy.
Danny Roberts Danny Roberts MTV Real World New Orleans Danny Roberts is one of the most recognizable faces in America. Best known for his role in the hit MTV series, Real World - New Orleans, Danny was catapulted from college-coed to celebrity overnight. He is considered one of the most popular MTV personalities in the history of the Real World franchise, and has successfully transitioned into a career of acting, modeling, and public speaking. After growing up in a small town in Northwest Georgia, Danny attended and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1999. Studying French and International Relations in college, Danny has always looked towards the bigger picture, and eagerly traveled whenever possible. He is a true adventurer at heart, always embracing risk. Throughout his season on Real World, Danny was open about his sexuality, and his controversial relationship with a young officer in the US Army. Through no agenda of his own, the viewership of the show and the likeability of Danny brought much needed attention to the issue of "gays in the military." With Danny, a generation of young Americans could finally put a face with the hot topic; minds opened and opinions swayed. Since leaving the show, Roberts continues to receive attention from the Gen X and Gen Y audience. The Advocate dubbed him "The Accidental Activist," a role he has embraced by setting a positive example for others to follow. He speaks regularly on college campuses, and started a hip web site to encourage open communication and support for young gay people throughout the country. Recently, Danny appeared on Dawson's Creek and The Real World/Road Rules Challenge, and has committed to several independent film projects. He is currently looking at numerous television projects that afford him the opportunity to positively influence the young gay community.
Terrence Roberts Terrence Roberts was born in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1941. He attended Dunbar Junior High School and Horace Mann High School before enrolling at Little Rock Central High School as a junior in September 1957 as one of the "Little Rock Nine", a group of African American high school students who were the first to integrate the city's racially segregated schools. As a result of the subsequent closing of Little Rock's high schools during the 1958-1959 school year, Roberts completed his senior year at Los Angeles High School in Los Angeles, California. He continued his education at California State University in Los Angeles and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology in 1967. He received his Master's degree in social welfare from the UCLA School of Social Welfare in 1970, and his Ph.D. in psychology from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, in 1976. Roberts joined the Antioch University Los Angeles in 1993 and served as core faculty and co-chair of the Master of Arts in Psychology program, before retiring in 2008. He also runs his private psychology practice in Pasadena, CA. In addition, he is CEO of the management-consulting firm, Terrence J Roberts & Associates. Terrence Roberts was prominently featured on the day Barack Obama was inaugurated as the forty fourth president of the United States of America.
Oscar Robertson A basketball legend, Oscar Robertson was an all-star basketball player for the Cincinnati Royals of the NBA. He is considered one of the greatest basketball players in the history of professional basketball. A motivational speaker and a role model to the youth of America.
Paul Robeson Jr. Paul Robeson Jr., who served as personal aide to his father for more than 20 years, is author of The Undiscovered Paul Robeson: An Artists Journey, 1898-1939 and Paul Robeson Jr. Speaks to America.
Sharon Robinson The daughter of Jackie Robinson, Sharon Robinson is the author of the book, Stealing Home: An Intimate Family Portrait by the Daughter of Jackie Robinson. She is director of educational programming for Major League Baseball where she supervises a program that focuses on urban and women's issues.
David Robinson NBA basketball star, a member of the USA basketball "dream team," and an Olympic gold medal winner.
Smokey Robinson This legendary Grammy winner is the only man in history to simultaneously be in the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, the Rock 'N' Roll Hall of Fame and honored by NARAS as a "Living Legend." He is available for a lecture, a lecture/preformance or a concert.
Randall Robinson Well known advocate for human rights and democracy, Randall Robinson has served as Executive Director and President of TransAfrica and TransAfrica Forum. His efforts led to the dismantling of apatheid in South Africa and the return of democracy to Haiti.
Mary Robinson Robinson, the first woman President of Ireland and more recently United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, is the superb example of a woman politician who puts her humanity very much at the forefront of her politics. She is currently the president of Realizing Rights: The Ethical Globalization Initiative, chairs the Council of Women World Leaders and is a member of the Global Commission on International Migration. As an academic, legislator and barrister, Robinson has always sought to use law as an instrument for social change, arguing landmark cases before the European Court of Human Rights as well as in the Irish courts and the European Court in Luxembourg. In 1988, Robinson and her husband, Nicholas Robinson, founded the Irish Centre for European Law at the University of Dublin, where she has served as chancellor since 1998. She was a member of the Irish senate from 1969-89 before her election as president (1990-97). Robinson served as the U.N.'s High Commissioner for Human Rights from 1997-2002. Kofi Annan, U.N. secretary-general, said of Robinson's tenure as high commissioner: "The job of United Nations HIgh Commissioner for Human Rights is not for the faint of heart ... (Mary) brought to the task a leader's vision, a lawyer's precision and a believer's conviction ... she was able to convey the very essence of human rights ... And she never shied away from controversial issues ... When Mary left the United Nations in 2002, she left the world a better place than she had found it." Her newest project, the Ethical Globalization Initiative, is supported by a partnership of the Aspen Institute, Columbia University and the Swiss-based International Council on Human Rights Policy. Its goal is to bring the norms and standards of human rights into the globalization process and to support capacity building in good governance in developing countries. The recipient of numerous honors and awards throughout the world, President Robinson is a member of the Royal Irish Academy and the American Philosophical Society and is Honorary President of Oxfam International as well as Penal Reform International. A member of the Club of Madrid (a group of former heads of state and government), Robinson was educated at the University of Dublin (Trinity College), King's Inns Dublin, and Harvard Law School. She holds honorary doctorates from more than 40 universities around the world. Since 2004, Robinson has been Professor of Practice in International Affairs at Columbia University, where she teaches international human rights. She was named one of Glamour's Women of the Year in 2005
Mo Rocca Mo Rocca, contributor to NBC's Tonight Show with Jay Leno and former correspondent for Comedy Central's The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, is known for his wacky, tongue-in-cheek news reports and hilarious commentary. He is regularly seen on VH1's I Love...series. Rocca's book, All the Presidents' Pets, just released in paperback, is a satirical tour-de-force of investigative journalism that blows the lid off of a long-held secret in Washington: the presidents' pets are more than just photo ops. Equal parts All the President's Men, Charlotte's Web and The Da Vinci Code, the book is the journalistic watershed event of the decade. Really. At the podium, Rocca delivers his uniquely informed commentary on current news events and the coverage of them by the "mainstream media," and takes audiences behind the scenes of America's most popular news satire program with never-before-seen clips from The Daily Show and his other television appearances. He also provides the inside story of the pivotal role that presidential pets play in politics, and shines a klieg light on the complacent Washington press corps that missed the hot story. The former president and writer of Harvard University's Hasty Pudding Theatricals, Rocca is no stranger to the stage. His acting credits include the role of "Doody" in the Southeast Asia Tour of Grease. Rocca began his career in TV as a writer and producer for the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning PBS children's series Wishbone. Rocca went on to write and produce for other kids series, including ABC's Pepper Ann and Nickelodeon's The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss, a pre-school series combining the whimsy of Seuss characters with the magic of Henson puppetry. He served as Consulting Editor at the adult men's magazine Perfect 10. Doing "pre-school by day and porn by night" helped prepare Rocca for the broad range of topics he'd soon tackle on The Daily Show. On The Daily Show, he profiled eccentrics ranging from a man so obsessed with First Ladies that he dresses up as Florence Harding (wife of Warren) to a husband and wife pet mummification team. A regular panelist on NPR's Wait Wait ... Don't Tell Me!, Rocca is also a frequent commentator for Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Larry King Live and the Fox News Channel.
Dr. Refugio Rochin Dr. Refugio Rochin: International Speaker, author, scholar, administrator, social scientist, and Leader in Education. Dr. Refugio Rochin, a celebrated trailblazer in the world of Latino culture, joins fellow Hispanic professional speakers in the Latino Speakers Bureau, to increase awareness of the role and contributions of Latinos to the history and culture of the United States. Dr. Refugio Rochin is currently the Executive Director of SACNAS, the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Latinos and Native Americans in Science. He has been designated as one of "America's Top 100 Influential Hispanics," by Hispanic Business, Inc., and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Northeastern University, Boston in 2000. He is often quoted by the press on Latino issues and in 2002, was featured in the Latin American Times as Hispanic of the Week. Frequently described by his audiences as dynamic, personable and imaginative, Dr. Rochin has been a trailblazer in U.S. Latino studies and cultural affairs, with a career that clearly speaks of leadership in research and policy issues affecting Latinos. He was the first Director of the Smithsonian Center for Latino Initiatives, among many other career achievements. He oversaw a variety of projects at the Smithsonian designed to increase awareness of the role and contributions of Latinos to the history and culture of the United States. Dr. Rochin is well known for his publications and lectures on Latino contributions to U.S. history, economic development, culture, arts, music and science. Dr. Refugio Rochin’s conferences will include: “U.S. Chicanos and Latinos in U.S. Society: A Historical Perspective”, “The Economics of Chicanos & Latinos in the U.S.”, “The Role and Contribution of Latinos to U.S. Culture”, “U.S. Latinos in the Arts & Culture”, “Latinos in Science: Opportunities & Challenges for the Future” and the much awaited conference that deals with the topic of his new book, "Latino Patriots in Defense of America: From the American Revolution to Afghanistan and Iraq."
Anita Roddick Founder and CEO of The Body Shop, environmentalist, human rights activist and an advocate of socially responsible business practices.
Buck Rodgers Top business executive and marketing expert
T. Rodgers Mr. T. Rodgers is a professional consultant, organizer and trainer specializing in violence prevention, human professions and cultural diversity. His mission is to actively promote harmonious and healthy communities that Are supported by principles of social justice. Knowledge and shard economic opportunity, respect for human rights, and a celebration of inclusion. Mr. Rodgers mother left the south side slums of 47th street in Chicago and moved to the west side of Los Angeles known as the jungle. Growing up in this densely populated village Mr. Rodgers admits it wasnt easy. As an adolescent he became embroiled in many gang-related conflicts and his leadership ability helped him develop a chapter of the almighty Black P. Stone Nation. They were500 members strong with five different parks under their control. At one point he was one of the TEN MOST WANTED gang leaders in south central Los Angeles. Mr. Rodgers gang activates caused him to be shot four times and stabbed twice, and the birth of his boy baby. These and other devastating experience forced him to take stock of himself. He began to look hard at how such self destructive and high risk behavior leads many youth to a life of incarceration, punishment, and high injury and death rates. Mr. Rodgers is now at the forefront of efforts to stop the violence and ease tension. He has taken a leadership role in negotiating truces and participating in a number of peace summits in cities across the country. His attempts to end gang violence rely heavily on promoting dialogue and understanding. Mr. Rodgers has poured his heart and soul into reaching out to troubled young men and women around the country, helping them redirect their behavior away from violence toward constructive solutions and actions. My Hope Is To Change The Person. As I Change Myself. This Change Helps Put Anger In Perspecective, And Move Away From Violence. To Support Individuals In Empowering Themselves To Utilize Their Natural Talents In A More Productive Manner To Challenge Many Underlying Factors That Have Created The Conditions That Exacerbate Their Anger he said. Through his work as executive vice president and national spokesperson for the American program Mr. Rodgers helped develop a comprehensive curriculum that is now used nationally. He has facilitated trainings and workshops for members of the California Correctional staff, Peace Officers, school personnel and other agencies in New York, Chicago, Miami, Denver, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Organ.
Sharon Rodine Leading women's rights activist and chair of the National Women’s Political Caucus Advisory Board.
Luis Rodriguez Luis J. Rodriguez has emerged as one of the leading Chicano writers in the country with ten nationally published books in memoir, fiction, nonfiction, children’s literature, and poetry. Luis’ poetry has won a Poetry Center Book Award, a PEN Josephine Miles Literary Award, and “Foreword” magazine’s Silver Book Award, among others. His two children’s books have won a Patterson Young Adult Book Award, two “Skipping Stones” Honor Award, and a Parent’s Choice Book Award, among others. A novel, Music of the Mill, was published in the spring of 2005 by Rayo/HarperCollins; a poetry collection, My Nature is Hunger: New & Selected Poems, 1989-2004, came out in the fall of 2005 from Curbstone Press/Rattle Edition. Luis is best known for the 1993 memoir of gang life, Always Running: La Vida Loca, Gang Days in L.A. An international best seller—with more than 20 printings, around 250,000 copies sold—the memoir also garnered a Carl Sandburg Literary Award, a Chicago Sun-Times Book Award, and was designated a New York Times Notable Book. Written as a cautionary tale for Luis’ then 15-year-old son Ramiro—who had joined a Chicago gang—the memoir is popular among youth and teachers. Despite this, the American Library Association in 1999 called Always Running one of the 100 most censored books in the United States. Efforts to remove his books from public school libraries and reading lists have occurred in Illinois, Michigan, Texas, and more recently in California, where the battles were quite heated. Yet for all the controversy, Luis has gained the respect of the literary community. In addition to the above honors, he has received a Sundance Institute Art Writers Fellowship, a Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Writers’ Award, a Lannan Fellowship for Poetry, an Hispanic Heritage Award for Literature, a National Association for Poetry Therapy Public Service Award, a California Arts Council Fellowship, an Illinois Author of the Year Award, several Illinois Arts Council fellowships, the 2001Premio Fronterizo, and “Unsung Heroes of Compassion” Award, presented by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Luis is also known for helping start a number of prominent organizations—such as Chicago’s Guild Complex, one of the largest literary arts organizations in the Midwest, and the publishing house of Tia Chucha Press. He is also one of the founders of Youth Struggling for Survival, a Chicago-based not-for-profit community group working with gang and nongang youth. He helped start Rock A Mole (rhymes with guacamole) Productions, which produces music/arts festivals, CDs, and film in Los Angeles. And he is a cofounder of Tia Chucha’s Café & Centro Cultural—a bookstore, coffee shop, performance space, art gallery, and workshop center that opened in December 2001 in the Northeast San Fernando Valley. On top of this, Luis has spent some twenty five years conducting workshops, readings, and talks in prisons, juvenile facilities, homeless shelters, migrant camps, universities, public and private schools, conferences, Native American reservations, and men’s retreats throughout the United States. He has also traveled to Canada, Europe, Mexico, Central America, and Puerto Rico doing similar work among disaffected populations. In addition, he’s editor of the new Chicano online magazine, Xispas.com. Luis has been part of the Mosaic Multicultural Foundation’s Men’s Conferences since 1994 with Mosaic founder Michael Meade, healer Orland Bishop, West African teacher-elder Malidoma Somé and American Buddhist Jack Kornfield. At these conferences, the complex but vital issues of race, class, gender, and personal rage are addressed with dialogue, ritual, story, poetry, and art involving men of all walks of life, including those in urban street gangs. He also created a CD of original music and his poems called “My Name’s Not Rodriguez” for Dos Manos Records, released in the summer of 2002. Luis’ work has also been widely anthologized, including in Letters of a Nation: A Collection of Extraordinary American Letters (1997 Broadway Books/Kodansha American), and most recently in the Outlaw Bible of American Poetry (1999 Thunder’s Mouth Press) and Bum Rush the Page: A Def Poetry Jam (2001 Three Rivers Press). His poems and articles have appeared in college and high school textbooks throughout the United States and Europe. He has done radio productions and writing for LA’s KPFK-FM, California Public Radio as well as Chicago’s WMAQ-AM’s All-News radio and WBEZ-FM. And his writings have appeared over the last twenty-five years in The Nation, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, U.S. News & World Report, LA Weekly, Philadelphia Inquirer Magazine, American Poetry Review, San Jose Mercury, Grand Street, Utne Reader, Prison Life, Progressive Magazine, Rock & Rap Confidential, among others. In 2005, he was asked to become a contributing writer to the LA Time’s “West” magazine.
Paul Rodriguez Paul Rodriguez career has spanned more than two decades and includes starring roles and featured appearances in over 30 films and countless television series and specials. His first big break came while doing comedy warm-ups for Norman Lear's show "Gloria." Lear ultimately wrote and developed a weekly series for Paul, "a.k.a. Pablo." Paul holds the honor and is enshrined at the Smithsonian as the first television show about a Mexican American Family on mainstream American television. He went on to do two other series, "Trial and Error," and "Grand Slam" for CBS. For four years (1990/94) Paul hosted "El Show de Paul Rodriguez," an entertainment talk show for the Spanish-language Univision Network. The show reached an international audience throughout the United States and 17 other countries in Central and South America. Paul's directorial debut came in 1994 with the film "A Million to Juan," a family comedy in which he also wrote and starred in. In addition, Paul also found time to guest star in several episodes of Showtime's original series "Resurrection Boulevard," and starred in six comedy specials for HBO, including "Loco Slam," "Live in San Quentin" and the most recent being "Idiots and Armadillos," which he also wrote and executive-produced. He also served as host for The Alma Awards on the ABC and the Latino Laugh Festival for Showtime, as well as his own television creations- four specials for the Fox Broadcasting Company ("Back to School," "Behind Bars") Paul segued nicely from television to motion pictures, making his feature film debut in the Universal Pictures comedy "D.C. Cab." Paul also had co-starring roles in Orion Pictures' "Miracles," Paramount's "The Whoopee Boys," Columbia Pictures "Quicksilver," and Universal's "Born in East L.A.", as well as "Made in America." He landed the coveted role of outspoken fight physician Freddie Pacheco in Columbia Pictures big budget biopic Ali for director Michael Mann and Producer John Peters. Other movie roles that followed are New Line Cinema's The Price of Glory, starring Jimmy Smitts, Metro Goldwyn's Tortilla Soup, with Hector Elizondo Crocodile Dundee in LA with Paul Hogan The Shipment with Mathew Modine, Jerry Zuckers Rat Race and Chasing Papi directed by Linda Mendoza Recently he had the opportunity to work with the legendary Clint Eastwood in the Warner Brothers film Bloodwork. Paul was the executive producer and star of the comedy concert film, The Original Latin Kings of Comedy, distributed by Paramount Pictures. His latest film projects include, A Cinderella Story starring Hilary Duff, Badassss directed by Mario Van Peebles, Cloud Nine starring Burt Reynolds and still in theaters, The Worlds Fastest Indian starring Sir Anthony Hopkins and directed by Roger Donaldson. Paul currently is in pre production on two series which were picked-up by VH1 and UPN/ Revolution Studios and just finished starring in a comedy showcase series entitled, The Laugh Factory: Very Funny, set to air on TBS. Paul Rodriguez is an in demand performer with a busy schedule of concerts and personal appearances. As a well rounded stand-up comedian, having honed his craft over the past twenty five years, it is estimated that Paul has performed live to well over one million concert goers from coast to coast building a solid fan base. Within Hispanic communities, Rodriguez is considered to be the Richard Pryor, Lenny Bruce, and George Carlin when it comes to original comedy. Hands down, he has become the Original Latin King of Comedy. Paul remains strongly rooted in the Latino community, working with civic and educational groups and his main contributions go to the National Hispanic Scholarship Fund (NHSF). Paul also contributes to such charitable efforts as Comic Relief appearing on the HBO's program every year since its inception and hosts the annual Elizabeth Glazer Pediatrics Aids Foundation celebrity Golf Tournament.
Richard Rodriguez Rodriguez is an important American essayist, known for writing about the intersection of personal life with some of the difficult cultural issues facing America today. He is also the author of the critically acclaimed books Hunger of Memory (an autobiographical memoir read in many high schools and colleges), Days of Obligation: An Argument with My Mexican Father and Brown: The Last Discovery of America. As a journalist, Rodriguez worked with the Pacific News Service in San Francisco and was a contributing editor with Harper’s Magazine and the Sunday “Opinion” section of the Los Angeles Times. In 1993, Rodriguez was given the Frankel Medal (now renamed “The National Humanities Medal”), the highest honor the federal government gives to recognize work done in the humanities. In 1997, his televised essays on American life, featured on PBS’ “The News Hour with Jim Lehrer,” were honored with a George Peabody Award.
Daniel Rodriguez Daniel Rodriguez, the seven year veteran of the New York City Police Department stepped up in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on America by offering in this difficult time the magical effect of his remarkable tenor voice. Former NYC Mayor Rudolf Giuliani introduced him at the New York Yankee baseball game, where he sang the National Anthem. The tenor made his album debut in February with the release of "Daniel Rodriguez" -"The Spirit of America."
Mariano Rodriguez Mariano Rodriguez, who has performed at numerous comedy clubs throughout the country and at the Latino Laughs Festival.
Julie Chavez Rodriguez The granddaughter of civil and labor rights activist Cesar Chavez, human rights activist and diversity speaker Julie Chavez Rodriguez was introduced to the farm worker movement at an early age. Throughout her life, she has played an active role in the fight for social justice, human rights, and the rights of working people. Chavez Rodriguez is currently the programs director for the Cesar E. Chavez Foundation, where she spearheads the National Youth Leadership Initiative, an effort which addresses academic and civic engagement among today's youth. Julie Chavez Rodriguez has also worked with the state of California on the development and administration of the Cesar Chavez Day of Service and Learning, and a web based K 12 curriculum on the life and work of Cesar Chavez. Prior to joining for the foundation, she worked with the United Farm Workers on voter registration and community empowerment programs throughout California. Chavez Rodriguez holds a bachelors degree in Latin American studies from the University of California at Berkeley.
Frank Roessler Frank Roessler from MTV Real World Las Vegas was known as the quiet shy guy from the cast. Real World Las Vegas was season 12 on MTV airing early 2003. Frank's only Real World Road Rules Challenge was the Battle of the Sexes 2 in 2004. He also appeared as the gay bar back in the movie American Weddding in 2003. Frank from Real World Las Vegas would be great speaking on shyness/values/engineering/stereotypes/relationships at college lectures.
Lt. Joe Rogers Lt. Governor of Colorado, Joe Rogers, is one of the youngest and only African American to serve as Governor or Lieutenant Governor in the United States. Affable and engaging, he is an orator who can easily bring a crowd to their feet. Joe Rogers is a dynamic and inspirational speaker who adds depth and substance to today's contemporary issues.
Kivi Rogers Comedian Kivi Rogers was born for the spotlight. He has made guest appearances on many television programs including; "The West Wing", "Dharma and Greg", "Home Improvement", and "Everybody Loves Raymond". He also appeared in the feature film: "Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion" with Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino. Kivi showcased at the prestigious HBO/Aspen Comedy Arts Festival after which he landed a development deal with Castle Rock Entertainment to star in his own sitcom. Kivi also performed on HBO's Def Comedy Jam and has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Kivi has also been nominated Comedian of the Year by the National Association for Campus Activities. In 2007, Kivi was selected to be a member of the CleanGuys of Comedy, an ensemble group led by Dave Coulier (Full House)
Betty Rollin NBC News special correspondent and breast cancer survivor.
Ed Rollins Considered one of America's premiere strategists and communications experts, Ed Rollins has specialized in managing issue and image campaigns on behalf of corporations, governments and political candidates around the world. He has managed the most successful presidential campaign in history (Reagan, '84) and has served two tours of duty at the White House as assistant to the President for Political Affairs. He is the author of the best selling book, Bare Knuckles and Back Rooms: My Life in American Politics.
Ronny Rom Ronny impressed us all with his standard fare of mind-reading tricks, including answering questions written on paper with his eyes completely taped shut. He then hypnotized 15 students, and placed them in a variety of humerous situations, humerous for the rest of us at least (although some the students being hypnotized were certainly getting a kick out it).
Freddie Roman Well known comedian and star of the long running Broadway show, “Catskills on Broadway.”
Ray Romano Ray Romano admits that he always knew he could make friends laugh, but he never really gave stand-up comedy any serious thought until one fateful open-mic night at a New York comedy club in 1984. He did well, the bug bit hard and Romano was smitten. After stints at odd jobs, including futon mattress delivery boy and bank teller by day and journeyman comedian by night, he decided to leave the 9-to-5 ranks and pursue comedy full-time, eventually winning a stand-up comedy competition sponsored by a major New York radio station that same year. Following that success, Romano continued to regularly appear at comedy clubs throughout the country, leading to appearances on "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson" and then with Jay Leno. He was eventually invited to appear on "Late Night with David Letterman." Following that success, Romano continued to regularly appear at comedy clubs throughout the country,leading to appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and then with Jay Leno. He was eventually invited to appear on Late Night with David Letterman. That night, Letterman, recognizing something very unique in Romanos persona, offered him a development deal with his production company, Worldwide Pants. Through that association, the CBS hit, Everybody Loves Raymond, was born. Romano has not only gone on to star in his own television series, but to perform at the White House Correspondents Dinner for President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore, and headline the Toyota Comedy Festival at Carnegie Hall. Romano recently won a TV Guide Award for Actor of the Year in a Comedy Series (2001), as well as the Funniest Male Lead in a TV Series at the 14th Annual American Comedy Awards (2000) and the Television Critics Association Award For Outstanding Individual Achievement in Comedy (1999).
Jim Rome Broadcasting from a studio near Los Angeles, he hosts The Jim Rome Show and hosts the TV show Jim Rome is Burning (formerly Rome is Burning) which airs on ESPN. His past hosting jobs included sports discussion shows Talk2 (ESPN2) and The Last Word (Fox Sports Net).
Tony Romo Tony Romos work ethic and humility have kept him grounded throughout his rise to stardom in one of sport's most distinguished positions, the quarterback of "America's Team": the Dallas Cowboys. Despite showing great athletic talent and having a stellar collegiate career, Tony came into the NFL undrafted as a backup quarterback. Making the most of the situation, Tony positioned himself to be the leader of the team if the opportunity arose. He was given a chance in 2006, as he replaced a veteran quarterback midway through the season resulting in a playoff appearance for the Cowboys after a three year drought. In only his second season as a starter, Tony was recently selected to his second consecutive Pro Bowl (NFL All-Star game) and led his team to the best record in the NFC during the 2007 NFL Season. It was not long before the media caught up with the small town boy-turned-Dallas Cowboys quarterback. His immediate rise from a blue collar background to Texas Royalty epitomizes the American Dream. Tony's success on the field as well as his red-carpet appearances with Jessica Simpson and Carrie Underwood have resulted in his burgeoning pop culture status. He has appeared regularly in People, US Magazine, In Touch, Star, Entertainment Weekly, Sports Illustrated, ESPN the Magazine and The Sporting News. In the face of increasing media exposure Tony has remained poised and composed. Midwestern origins and a close knit family provide Tony with a strong foundation to handle challenges both on and off the field.
Charlie Rose Emmy Award-winning Charlie Rose entered television journalism full-time in 1974, when he became the managing editor of the PBS series Bill Moyers' International Report. He later worked with Moyers on two other series: Bill Moyers' Journal and U.S.A.: People and Politics. From 1984 to 1990 he anchored Nightwatch, the CBS television network's late-night interview series, and won for himself what some observers have described as a cult following for the in-depth conversations that have since earned him a reputation as "the best interviewer around today," in the words of Marvin Kitman. "[CHARLIE ROSE] is the purest extension of my skills as an interviewer," Rose told Joyce Saenz Harris, who interviewed him for the Dallas Morning News (May 2, 1993). "Whatever craft there is, that's what it's about: stripping away all the barriers to good conversation. I'm looking for people to be at their best, their most real. If I can do that, it makes for telling television."
Pete Rose One of baseballs’ all-time great players.
Nancy Taylor Rosenberg Best selling mystery novelist.
Jerry Rosenberg An expert on the Middle East peace process, Professor Jerry Rosenberg is the Director of the Center for Middle East Studies at Rutgers University. The author of 25 books, his most recent being Encyclopedia of the Middle East Peace Process and the Middle East/North African Economic Community; The New Europe; The New American Community; and Dictionary of International Trade. A presenter at both the Casablanca Economic Summit and the Amman Economic Summit, Professor Rosenberg's topics include The Middle East Peace Process and Regional Economic Integration - The Last Hope for Lasting Peace; Investing in the Middle East.
Joel C. Rosenberg Joel C. Rosenberg is the New York Times bestselling author of The Last Jihad, The Last Days and The Ezekiel Option, with more than one million copies in print. As a communications strategist, he has worked with some of the world’s most influential leaders in business, politics and media, including Steve Forbes, Rush Limbaugh, and former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. As a novelist, he has been interviewed on more than 300 radio and TV programs, including ABC’s “Nightline,” CNN Headline News, Fox News Channel, The History Channel, MSNBC, the “Rush Limbaugh Show,” and the “Sean Hannity Show.” He has been profiled by the New York Times, Washington Times, and The Jerusalem Post, and was the subject of two cover stories in WORLD magazine. He has addressed audiences all over the world, including Russia, Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, and Belgium. He has spoken at the White House, The Heritage Foundation, AOL, and the International Spy Museum, as well as at dozens of conferences, universities, churches, synagogues, political events, bookseller conventions, and charitable fund-raisers. The first page of his first novel – The Last Jihad – puts you inside the cockpit of a hijacked jet, coming in on a kamikaze attack into an American city, which leads to a war with Saddam Hussein over weapons of mass destruction. Yet it was written before 9/11, and long before the actual war with Iraq. When published, The Last Jihad spent eleven weeks on the New York Times bestseller list, reaching as high as #7. It raced up the USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists, hit #4 on the Wall Street Journal list and hit #1 on Amazon.com. His second thriller – The Last Days – opens with the death of Yasser Arafat and a U.S. diplomatic convoy ambushed in Gaza. Two weeks before The Last Days was published in hardcover, a U.S. diplomatic convoy was ambushed in Gaza. Thirteen months later, Yasser Arafat died. The Last Days spent four weeks on the New York Times bestseller list, hit #5 on the Denver Post list, and #8 on the Dallas Morning News list. Both books have been optioned by a Hollywood producer. The Ezekiel Option centers on Russian dictator in Russia who forms a military alliance with the leaders of Iran who are feverishly pursuing nuclear weapons and threatening to wipe Israel off the face of the earth. On the very day it was published in June 2005, Iran elected a new leader who vowed to accelerate the country's nuclear program and later vowed to "wipe Israel off the map." Six months after it was published, Moscow signed a $1 billion arms deal with Tehran. The Ezekiel Option spent four weeks on the New York Times hardcover bestseller list and four months on the Christian Bookseller Association bestseller list. An evangelical Christian from an Orthodox Jewish background, Joel’s grandparents escaped Russian persecution of the Jews in the early part of the 20th century. He graduated from Syracuse University in 1989, and studied at Tel Aviv University. He is married, has four sons, and lives near Washington, D.C., where he and his wife are members of McLean Bible Church. WORLD magazine says The Last Days is “dramatic...good entertainment ...a New York Times bestseller with the gospel tucked inside.” The New York Times calls Rosenberg “a Washington success story.” Rush Limbaugh says The Last Jihad is “amazing…I could not put this book down…You have to read this.” Sean Hannity calls The Last Days “riveting to the point you can’t put it down - a heart-pounding, edge of your seat roller coaster ride.” The Jerusalem Post calls The Last Days “a fast-paced thriller, packed with the authentic details and behind-the-scenes tidbits that only a Washington insider such as Rosenberg could know…. screams ‘possible’ from every page.” U.S. News & World Report says Rosenberg’s novels are so close to reality he seems like a “modern Nostradamus.” CNN Headline News says “J.K. Rowling may be the writer of the moment for the young and the young at heart. But for many adults Joel Rosenberg is the ‘it author’ right now. Inside and outside the beltway in Washington, people are snatching up copies of his almost life-like terrorist suspense novels.”
Roger Rosenblatt Roger Rosenblatt is a journalist, author, playwright and teacher. His essays for The NewsHour have won a Peabody and an Emmy award. His essays for Time magazine have won two George Polk Awards, awards from the American Bar Association, the Overseas Press Club, and others.Roger's journalism career began in 1975 as literary editor of The New Republic. He has also been a columnist and editor-at-large for Life magazine, the editor of U.S. News & World Report, a columnist and editorial board member of The Washington Post and editor-at-large of Time, Inc. His work has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Vanity Fair, The New Republic, Esquire and elsewhere.A Fulbright scholar with five honorary doctorates, Roger has a Ph.D. from Harvard, where he taught writing and modern literature from 1968-73 and was, at age 29, the youngest House Master in Harvard's history. He is the author of ten books, including a collection of his writings, "The Man in the Water," "Coming Apart: A Memoir of the Harvard Wars of 1969," and the national bestseller, "Rules for Aging." His Children of War (1983) won the Robert F. Kennedy Book Prize and has been published in seven languages. Roger is married, has three children and lives in New York City.
Jonathan Rosenblum Jewish Media Resources is a leading media organization dedicated to furthering an understanding of Torah Judaism. Jewish Media Resources works with foreign journalists stationed in Israel and with local journalists by providing access to leading figures within the Orthodox Jewish community in Israel, and with information and insights about the community. Jonathan Rosenblum, director of Jewish Media Resources, also serves as an English-language spokesman for the Orthodox Jewish community with foreign journalists.
Robert Rosenthal An award-winning journalist with nearly 40 years of experience, Rosenthal has worked for some of the most respected newspapers in the country, including The New York Times, The Boston Globe, The Philadelphia Inquirer where he was Executive Editor, and the San Francisco Chronicle where he was Managing Editor. Rosenthal is now Executive Director of Center for Investigative Reporting. As a reporter, his awards include the Overseas Press Club Award for magazine writing, the Sigma Delta Chi Award for distinguished foreign correspondence, and the National Association of Black Journalists Award for Third World Reporting. He has also been in charge of the award winning Chauncey Bailey Project and was an editorial assistant on the Pulitzer Prize winning Pentagon Papers Project while at The New York Times. He has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in international reporting and a Pulitzer judge four times.
Alex Rosner Alex Rosner survived the Holocaust as a child as part of Schindler's list. Rosner can be seen at the end of Steven Spielberg's film, placing a stone on the grave of Oskar Schindler. Topic: Testimony of a Survivor.
Brian Ross Chief investigative correspondent for NBC News.
Jeff Ross Comedian JEFFREY ROSS is adored by his fans for going where no other comedian dares to go in his roasts of celebrities such as Pamela Anderson, Hugh Hefner, and Flava Flav. Jeffrey is one of the most versatile talents working in the comedy business today. His stand-up performances at comedy clubs and colleges are legendary. Jeffrey is regularly featured on MTV and Comedy Central. His all new Comedy Central stand-up specials: Jeffrey Ross: No Offense Live From New Jersey, is scheduled to air August 22nd. And as if that wasn't enough, he has had dozens of appearances on the late night shows including Letterman, Leno, Conan and Kimmel.
Dennis Ross Ross is a distinguished fellow and counselor for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. For more than twelve years, Ross played the leading role in shaping U.S. involvement in the Middle East peace process and in dealing directly with the the parties in negotiations. A highly skilled diplomat, Ambassador Ross was this country's point man on the peace process in both the Bush and Clinton administrations. He was instrumental in assisting Israelis and Palestinians in reaching the 1995 Interim Agreement; he also successfully brokered the Hebron Accord in 1997, facilitated the Israeli-Jordan peace treaty, and intensively worked to bring Israel and Syria together. A scholar and diplomat with more than two decades of experience in Soviet and Middle Eastern policy, Ambassador Ross worked closely with Secretaries of State James Baker, Warren Christopher, and Madeleine Albright. Prior to his service as Special Middle East Coordinator under President Clinton, Ross served as director of the State Department's Policy Planning office in the first Bush administration. In that position, he played a prominent role in developing U.S. policy toward the former Soviet Union, the unification of Germany and its integration into NATO, arms control negotiations, and the development of the Gulf War coalition. He served as director of Near East and South Asian affairs on the National Security Council staff during the Reagan administration, and as deputy director of the Pentagon's Office of Net Assessment.
Loretta Ross Loretta J. Ross Womens Rights are Human Rights Loretta J. Ross is a founder and the National Coordinator of the SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Health Collective, composed of 70 women of color organizations across the country. She was the Co-Director of the April 25, 2004 National March for Womens Lives in Washington D.C., the largest protest in U.S. history. She is also the co-author of Undivided Right: Women of Color Organizing for Reproductive Justice (2004, South End Press). Ross areas of expertise are reproductive rights, human rights, womens issues, diversity issues, hate groups and bias crimes. Ross is the founder and former Executive Director of the National Center for Human Rights Education (NCHRE), a training and resource center for grassroots activists on using human rights education to address social injustices in the United States. Prior to that, from 1990 to 1995, she served as the national program research director for the Atlanta-based Center for Democratic Renewal (CDR) (formerly the National Anti-Klan Network). CDR is a national, non-profit clearinghouse for information on hate groups and bigoted violence, including the Ku Klux Klan and the neo-Nazi movement. Ross directed specific projects on far right organizations in South Africa and Ku Klux Klan and neo-Nazi involvement in anti-abortion violence in the U.S. Rosss involvement in women’s health issues was initiated as a result of a personal triumph. She was one of the first African American women to direct the first rape crisis center in the United States in the 1970s. Womens human rights are of significant concern for Ross because she was sterilized at age 23. Ross was also one of the first black women to win a suit against A.H. Robins, manufacturer of the Dalkon Shield that sterilized thousands of women worldwide. As an advocate for social justice, she has coordinated several conferences that address the reproductive rights movement and violence against Third World women. She co-coordinated the first national conference on Violence Against Third World Women in 1980. From 1985 to 1989, she served as the Director of Women of Color Programs for the National Organization for Women. She also organized a second “first,” a national conference on Women of Color and Reproductive Rights in 1987. She successfully organized women of color delegations for the massive pro-choice marches sponsored by the National Organization for Women (NOW) in 1986 and 1989. In 1990, she coordinated the first national conference of African American Women and Reproductive Rights as Program Director for the National Black Women’s Health Project. The year 1989 was marked by the publication of a popular brochure for African American women called “We Remember.” A quarter million copies were distributed in a project she co-coordinated with Donna Brazile, then director of the National Political Congress of Black Women. Ross is co-author, with 3 other writers, of the book Beyond the Politics of Inclusion: Women of Color in the Reproductive Rights Movement (2004, South End Press). She is currently authoring a book on a black women’s activism in the reproductive rights movement called Black Abortion. Other writing projects include editorials for the Progressive Media Project for the Knight-Ridder newspaper chain and she serves as a political analyst for Pacifica News Service and Alternative Radio. Ross has appeared on talk shows such as The Donahue Show, The Charlie Rose Show, CNN, BET Lead Story, and Good Morning America. She has also been featured in Emerge Magazine, Biography Magazine, San Antonio Express News, and the Los Angeles Times. For the last two years, she has also been collecting oral histories of elder feminists of color for archives at Smith College. Ross was invited to testify before the U.S. Congress, the United Nations, and the Food and Drug Administration on women’s health and human rights issues. She served eight years on the Washington D.C. Commission for Women. She currently serves on the board of directors for the Foundation for African American Women, the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, the Committee on Women, Population and the Environment, and SisterLove Women’s AIDS Project. Ross received an honorary Doctorate of Civil Law degree in 2003 from Arca
Matthue Roth Matthue Roth is a novelist and performance poet who lives in California. He has filmed for HBO’s Def Poetry Jam and Rock the Vote, performed with Deepak Chopra and Carlos Santana, and completed three national tours with his own brand of poetry that isn’t quite hip-hop and isn’t quite storytelling, and manages to be funny and sweet and brutal and brutally honest. He has performed at high schools and universities nationwide, including Yale, Harvard, and Brown. His first novel, Never Mind the Goldbergs, will be released in softcover by Scholastic in April 2006, and his second, Yom Kippur a Go-Go, was released by Cleis Press in November 2005. He has also appeared in the National Queer Arts Festival, and in the short film The Waves, by Yael Braha, which was featured in the 2004 Cannes International Film Festival. He’s written and self-published several poetry chapbooks, including Yom Kippur A Go-Go and A Child’s Garden of Gender. He also is a staffwriter for Bitch, Bust, Zero, and the San Francisco Bay Guardian. Matthue has also been featured in the book Quirkyalone and the film Can’t Touch This: Young Orthodox Jews and Sexuality.
Richard Roundtree Popular actor who is best known for his role as John Shaft, private detective and super cop hero in the hit movies "Shaft", "Shaft in Africa" and Shaft's Big Score." He also starred in the 90 minute television series, "Shaft."
J.K. Rowling Joanne Rowling a English fiction writer who writes under the pen name J. K. Rowling. Rowling is the author of the Harry Potter fantasy series, which has gained worldwide attention, won multiple awards, and sold over 325 million copies worldwide.
John Roy John Roy is a unique and positive voice on modern urban life. John began his professional career at the famous Zanies Comedy Club on Wells St. in Chicago's Old Town. He went on to tour the country's best clubs, including the Laugh Stop in Houston, and the Laugh Factory in Los Angeles, where John earned a regular spot in 2002. In 2003, he appeared on the CBS television show, "Star Search," and was its first champion, earning 100,000 dollars and a development deal with CBS. In 2003, John performed at the NACA Central convention and was the most requested act in any category. In 2004, John appeared in the prestigious US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, as a square on "Hollywood Squares," and on HBO. .John has appeared several times on the nationally syndicated "Bob and Tom" radio program, available in over 200 markets. In 2005, John appeared in DVD series called "Live at the Laugh Factory", available in stores nationwide, alongside such acclaimed comedians as Butch Bradley, Bob Marley, Tom Papa, and Tony Rock. John is a regular performer at the Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach, and the Upright Citizen's Brigade Theatre in Los Angeles and the Hollywood Improv. John appeared on Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" in the 2005-2006 season, and a November 2005 episode of CBS' "The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson." In 2006, John contributed an essay to CollegeHumor.com that was collected in their nationally released book. John appeared in several episodes of NBCÂ’s "Last Comic Standing" where he advanced to the semifinals of the reality show/ competition. In 2007, John made an unprecedented four appearances in two months on the nationally syndicated TV show, "Comics Unleashed." His CD, "1246 W. Arthur," was released, featuring John headlining at his home club of Zanies in Chicago. In addition, John was recently approved for NBC's "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," and will appear on the show in the near future.
Michael Rubin Michael Rubin is a scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and editor of the Middle East Quarterly (a publication of the Middle East Forum.) A native of Philadelphia, Dr. Rubin earned a Ph.D. in history from Yale University in 1999. His dissertation, The Making of Modern Iran, 1858-1909: Communications, Telegraph and Society won Yale's top John Addison Porter Prize. He has received numerous awards and fellowships, including from the Council on Foreign Relations, Carnegie Council for Ethics and International Affairs, and the Washington Institute for Middle East Policy, where he was a Soref fellow in 1999-2000. He has lectured in history at Yale University, Hebrew University, and at three different universities in northern Iraq. Between 2002 and 2004, Dr. Rubin worked as a country director for Iran and Iraq in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, from which he was seconded to the Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq. Dr. Rubin is co-author of Eternal Iran (Palgrave, 2005) and Into the Shadows: Radical Vigilantes in Khatami's Iran (2001), in addition to numerous scholarly and policy articles. He has published his opinion articles and analyses widely in such forums as the Washington Post, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, The New Republic, National Review, and Commentary. He has appeared on CNN, Fox, BBC, MSNBC, C-Span's Washington Journal, and ABC's Nightline. Dr. Rubin has traveled widely in Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Afghanistan, Central Asia, Turkey, the Arab world, and Israel.
Maya Rudolph Saturday Night Live" star Maya Rudolph is one television's most versatile performers. In addition to the brilliant comedic talent she brings each week to "SNL," Maya is also quite adept musically, having sung vocals and played keyboards for The Rentals, a band that's opened for groups like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Garbage and Alanis Morisette (Maya's mom, the late Minnie Ripperton, was also a talented singer.). On "SNL," Rudolph has performed memorable characters such as Britannica of the pop group "Germini's Twin," opposite Ana Gasteyer. She's also known for her portrayal of Megan, a character who hosts the high school morning talk show "Wake Up Wakefield." Maya's film work includes a role in "Duets," which featured Gwyneth Paltrow, a friend of Rudolph's (they were childhood classmates).
Rudy Ruettiger Real life hero of the movie, “Rudy.” and an excellent motivational speaker
don Miguel Ruiz Best selling author of The Four Agreement, currently on The New York Times best selling list, don Miguel Ruiz was born into a family of healers. Nagual (spiritual leader) don Miguel was raised in rural Mexicao by a curandera (faith healer) mother and nagual grandfather. The family anticipated he would embrace their centuries old legacy of healing and teaching. Instead, distracted by modern life, don Miguel chose to attend medical school and later teach and practice as a surgeon. A near death experience brought his wake-up call. Don Miguel's survival allowed him the opportunity to begin freeing himself from his limited belief system. He devoted himself to the mastery of the ancestral wisdom. Don Miguels fascinating lectures include Toltec (strong, spiritual influence from the Mexican pre-Hispanic indigenous world) wisdom on human relationships as well as techniques for integrating this awareness into daily life.
Marla Runyan Blind American track star who is the first disabled athlete ever to participate in the Olympics will be competing in the 1500 meter track meet during the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia.
Bill Russell One of basketball's all-time great players, Russell has coached the Boston Celtics and the Seattle Supersonics and is presently head basketball coach for the Sacramento Kings of the NBA. A top motivational speaker.
Patricia Russell-McCloud Human rights activist, attorney and motivational speaker, Patricia Russell-McCloud is recognized as one of the most powerful speakers in America today. Ms. Russell-McCloud has the extraordinary ability to challenge and motivate her listeners into progressive action.
Chris Russo Chris "Mad Dog" Russo brings his feisty, hard-hitting brand of sports talk to WFAN weekday afternoons from 1:00 to 6:30 PM. The Mike and the Mad Dog show debuted on the FAN in September of 1989 creating the two man talk team that is now the industry standard. Their show has been at or near the top of the ratings book ever since. Beyond the numbers, the Mike and the Mad Dog show is known far and wide in the world of sports. Athletes and coaches not only appear as guests, they are listeners at well. Chris earned the nickname “Mad Dog” for his outspoken views and rapid fire delivery. Chris' resume includes jobs with WKIS in Orlando and WMCA in New York where he served as the morning sports anchor and weekend sports talk host. He teamed up with former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason to host In the Huddle, a nationally syndicated radio show previewing each week’s pro football line-up. Chris is the author of two books, with his most recent entitled The Ulitmate Top-Ten Rankings of The Best in Sports
Burt Rutan Burt Rutan Motivational, Inspirational, Experimental Burt Rutan designed the record breaking Voyager, the first airplane to circle the world non-stop and without being refueled. As all of Rutan’s airplanes, it employed some of the most advanced design in use today. Hollywood featured the avant-garde beauty of his designs in three films, Death Race 2000, Octopussy and Iron Eagle III. Rutan’s company has developed projects as diverse as a sail for an America’s Cup challenger and the gondola for Virgin-Atlantic’s Richard Bransen’s attempt to balloon non-stop around the world. His company also developed an all composite car body for General Motors that averages 100 miles per gallon. Audiences are inspired by Rutan’s enthusiasm for what individuals with vision can achieve. “An engineer in a normal company structure,” says Rutan, “gets to work on two or three airplanes in his whole career. We’ve done twenty-three airplanes in twenty years.” Burt Rutan has received numerous awards for his designs.