Word Up

Wednesday 09/30/09

Eden was a delightful place to be last night, as the first Cristian Rivera Foundation Gala turned into a truly star-studded affair. Actor Luis Guzman, who has been seen in such films as Magnolia, Carlito’s Way and The Taking of Pelham 123, joined the celebration at Eden, where people filled the rooftop venue to not only honor the life of Cristian Rivera but also raise money toward finding a cure for Pontine Glioma. New Committee member Jim Jones was at the event, as well as actress Miriam Colon, filmmaker Franc Reyes and international Salsa star and Committee member Jose Alberto “El Canario.” We also spied Dina Manzo from Real Housewives of New Jersey in the crowd.

Guests enjoyed a meal provided by top New York restaurants Hudson River Café, Mamajuana Café, Sofrito, 809 Bar & Grill, Sazon, Calle Ocho and Playa. Celebrity chefs Ricardo Cardona and Alex Garcia catered the whole thing, while announcer J.I. Starr of La Mega 97.9 FM, comedian Ruperto Vanderpool and singer Raul Acosta of Oro Solido, who is also a Committee member, had the crowd on their feet the whole night. Even New York politician Bill Thompson got in on the act. The man running on the Democratic ticket for mayor made an appearance at the event and pledged his support for the Cristian Rivera Foundation’s very worthy cause. All in all it was a very successful evening.

Article by: Michelle Loeb

Wednesday, 09/30/09

When the Gosselins’ reality show returns to TLC on November 2^nd, something going to be visibly missing. Make that someone. In light of the couple’s split and impending divorce, Jon Gosselin’s name has been removed from the title of the show that made him famous.

“Given the recent changes in the family dynamics, it only makes sense for us to refresh and recalibrate the program to keep pace with the family,” TLC said in a statement. “We feel that Kate’s journey really resonates with our viewers.”

Gosselin’s rep has been quoted saying Jon was not fired, but will play a lesser role on Kate Plus Eight, which chronicles Kate’s experience as a single mom. TLC also said the network and Jon will continue their “exclusive relationship.” Will you watch Jon and Kate, minus Jon? We’ll be curious to see how this change affects the show’s ratings. Stay tuned.

Article by: Michelle Loeb

Wednesday, 09/30/09

Conflicting reports have been coming out all over the place today about the status of Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel’s three-year relationship. Us Weekly claims that Justin dumped his girlfriend over the phone about a month ago, and sources tell the magazine that Justin looked single and ready to mingle during Fashion Week in New York City. According to a friend of the couple, Jessica is in “severe denial and won’t accept” the split.

But was there really a split in the first place? Not if you ask People. “They’re not breaking up. Any time they spend time apart, it’s because they’re working,” according to People’s source. However, the source added, “They’ve been spending more time apart – more time with each of their friends, and they’ve been reevaluating [their relationship].” So are they on or are they off? We at V2 say where there’s smoke there’s fire. With all these rumors, we won’t be surprised if a confirmed breakup announcement is imminent.

Article by: Michelle Loeb

Tuesday 09/29/09

Jim Jones

Jim Jones, the American rapper born Joseph Guillermo Jones II is the latest member of the Cristian Rivera Foundation Committee. Jones has made many appearances on the Billboard charts since releasing his first solo album in 2004, including his biggest hit “We Fly High.” That song famously inspired a dance emulated by Michael Strahan and Plaxico Burress on Monday Night Football. Jones is co-CEO of Diplomat Records, has his own freestyle rollerblading team, Dip Skate, and is an acclaimed video director who has worked with Cam’ron, Remy Ma and State Property.

Jones will be joining the rest of the Committee, as well as special celebrity guests, at tonight’s Cristian Rivera Foundation Gala.

Article by Michelle Loeb

Tuesday 09/29/09

The Cristian Rivera Foundation Gala

The Cristian Rivera Foundation is proud to announce its first-ever gala is taking place tonight, September 29, at Manhattan’s Eden, located at 264 West 47^th Street between 8^th Avenue and Broadway. The venue holds special significance as it was the site of Cristian’s fifth birthday party. The gala will serve as a tribute to the life of Cristian Rivera, as well as a fundraiser towards finding the cure for pediatric brain tumor Pontine Glioma. The event will take place from 6pm to 10pm, with open bar throughout. Hosted by comedian Ruperto Vanderpool, the gala begins with a cocktail hour from 6-7pm, followed by dinner catered by celebrity chefs Ricardo Cardona and Alex Garcia. Entertainment will be provided by Raul Acosta/Oro Solido and his Orchestra, as well as other top-name DJs and performers. Guests will have a chance to bid on rare sports memorabilia, including a Derek Jeter jersey, A-Rod’s bat and soccer balls signed by David Beckham. Confirmed guests including New York City mayoral candidate Bill Thompson, Luis Guzman, Frank Reyes and Fat Joe will be joined by Cristian Rivera Foundation Committee members John “Jellybean” Benitez, Jim Jones, Fernando Ferrer, Victor Martinez, Jimmy Rodriguez, Vic Latino, DJ Funkmaster Flex, and others.

Tickets may be purchased until 5pm today at www.cristianriverafoundation.org. Don’t forget to get yours now.

Tuesday 09/29/09

DJ AM dead at 36

The industry is still mourning the sudden death of DJ AM, but can now rest easy that the troubled star did not commit suicide. New York City Medical Examiner released its report today, which listed the cause of death as “accident (substance abuse).” The 36-year-old celebrity DJ—born Adam Goldstein—had cocaine, OxyContin, Benadryl and another drug used to cut cocaine in his system, according to an Associated Press report.

This news comes as MTV announced it will air the eight episodes DJ AM taped of his reality show, Gone Too Far. The show had DJ AM, a former substance abuser, offering help, support and tough love to other addicts. Some people might consider MTV’s decision controversial, but we think it’s a fitting tribute to DJ AM, letting people see something that meant a lot to him at the time of his death. We at V2 will definitely be tuning in.