Sunday, December 25, 2005

Big Bash For Christmas




If you're really good, Santa brings you a cup of Oreo Cookie Bash! I guess I was really good then, because my husband Jim made it for Christmas. Actually he's been making it every other week since Thanksgiving because I LOVE the stuff.

I had it for the first time back in September at my cousin's baby shower. The lady who made it was kind enough to share the recipe with me. Okay, I begged, whined and damn near threatened her, but hey: It's THAT good.

It goes by many names: Cookie Pudding, The Cookie Monster... whatever you call it, it's delicious! In the spirit of the season, here's the recipe. Don't say I didn't warn you:


Recipe for Oreo Cookie Bash
1. Crush 1 1/4 lb of Oreo's- set aside
2. Cream 1 stick butter, 1 8oz pkg of cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar
3. Mix 3 1/2 cups milk and 2 pkgs of French Vanilla Instant Pudding and 16 oz. Cool Whip
Mix #2 into #3 and beat together- refrigerate to set. Once set, use a trifle bowl and start layering with Oreo cookie crumbs, then pudding then Oreos, etc.
Start and end with Oreos!
Enjoy!

Merry Christmas!

 Posted by Picasa

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

Improv Christmas Partry


The New York City Transit Strike didn't stop the hearty from coming out and enjoying the third annual holiday party at the New York City Improv. Posted by Picasa

Monday, December 19, 2005

Law & Disorder

Friday night on stage at Rascals Comedy Club in Montclair, NJ, I asked,
"Hey, any Law & Order fans?"

A woman right up front loudly and proudly answers,
"Yes, I watch SUV!"
"That's nice. But I think the rest of us are watching
SVU (Special Victims Unit)."

Some nights it's like taking candy from a baby.

Saturday, December 17, 2005

Club Kiwanis

Robert Witherspoon, President & Moi

Right after Old Business and before the Closing Remarks, I was the Surprise Guest at a local meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Rosedale - Laurelton!

It's not often that I get to do a gig less than 10 minutes from my house. My shows usually involve the accumulation of frequent flyer miles. But last Tuesday I was local with an intimate group of about 20 very warm, friendly and receptive people! They weren't expecting an impromptu comedy show, but they didn't hold back.

A visiting member was so impressed, he invited to perform in February for the Official Visit and Brunch for Kiwanis International's New York District Governor! Cool, huh?

Sunday, December 11, 2005

Good Night Mr. Pryor

Richard Pryor, the original King of Comedy, passed away on Saturday, December 10th, and our hearts go out to his family. My husband Jim said it best:

No words can convey the sorrow that we all share at the passing of one of the true artists of the stand-up stage, Richard Pryor. Pryor is the most idolized, imitated, and plagiarized comic of all time. He was perhaps the first comic to use his private pain for comedic effect, and by doing so showed the generations of comics that have come after him a new way of being funny -- that is being real. He remains the bar by which all other comics measure their artistry. This is a true loss for all who cherish laughter. Richard Pryor will always be remembered, and forever be missed, by those who were touched by his laughter.
--- Jim

Thursday, December 8, 2005

No Menacing?

In the wake of the London subway bombing the authorities in New York City have seen fit not only step up their security measures, but to enforce a "broken windows" policy on the riders. No walking in between cars. No eating. No drinking, and certainly no taking up more than one seat. Do riders of girth have a case here? Perhaps, but they’ll have to wait in line behind the people who have been the subject of the oh so successful and constitutional random bag searches.

Mr. Spock (Yes, I’m an unabashed Star Trek fan), once said, "The needs of the many, outweigh the needs of the few or the one." That may be true, but I have often found that, "The crimes of the few, infringe of the freedoms of the many." This isn’t really new. I learned this lesson in grammar school. It was usually the actions of only one kid who would cause the whole class to be kept after school or to receive extra homework as punishment.

I vociferously rebelled against this in seventh grade. Our teacher, Mr. Powers, had to step out of the classroom for a moment, and asked our Catholic school class of 28 to continue quietly with our work. You would think 12 year-olds could accomplish this. Well, some of us could. But for Billy the temptation proved too great. He just had to leave his seat and cause as much mayhem as two minutes of freedom would allow.

Mr. Powers heard the commotion from the hallway and matched it with his own. He came in, clearly disappointed, and levied detention and punishment on the whole class. This irked me and inspired a sense of injustice that only a kid can muster. He knew who the culprit was, and yet he condemned us all. I balked. I had done what I was told. I had stayed in my seat and done my work. Why was I being punished? It wasn’t fair! It was however a perfect example of the real world. The crimes of the few.


So while we all adjust ourselves to a new set of rules and regulations, necessitated by the crimes of a few, perhaps the MTA should be even more specific. If you’re gonna regulate all areas of behavior, do it right. They left a biggie off the list: No menacing. I don’t know if a sign with that commandment would have helped, but it may have been of some comfort as a tall, shabbily dressed man menaced the people in my sparsely populated subway car.

He stopped and stood in front of a man in a trench coat sitting across from me, reached out and ruffled his hair. That caught my attention. You don’t see that on the subway very often. I thought perhaps the men knew each other. But even as I thought it, I knew I was wrong. The menacing man began talking to and touching Mr. Trench Coat who was trying desperately to ignore it, as if ignoring it would make it stop. Not only was Mr. Menace not stopping, he was standing in such a way as to block Mr. Trench Coat’s means of egress.

The clincher that all was not well, as if any other sign was needed, was the woman sitting across and a couple of seats over from the action. She was still holding her book open, but she wasn’t reading anymore. She was staring at the interaction between Mr. Menace and Mr. Trench Coat with a mixture of disgust and fright. I’m sure I probably had the same look on my face.

As the F train slipped into the 34th street station and the doors opened, Mr. Menace stepped back, his attention momentarily caught elsewhere. Seeing their opportunity, Mr. Trench Coat and the Book Lady bolted. As I stared after them, part of me hoping that I hadn’t just seen what I had – the mind’s capacity to rationalize is infinite – I realized suddenly that I now had Mr. Menace’s attention. He introduced himself by reaching out to touch my hair.

No ignoring or rationalizing that. I was out of my seat and out the door. Exit stage right. Now there was a good chance this man was simply a poor soul who is off his medication, but I was pretty sure I didn’t have his prescription in my bag. I also don’t give the benefit of the doubt to grown men who are taller, inherently stronger and outweigh me by 100 pounds.

As the train doors closed with Mr. Menace inside, I felt like the gazelle who got away. I looked around and saw the Book Lady next to me. The other man was no where to be found. He was probably turning in his metro card and opting for a cab. Who could blame him? I would have too, but catching a cab at 34th Street, mid-day during the holiday season is murder. And I’m cheap. I paid $2 for a subway ride and I was going to get my money’s worth. The MTA doesn’t do refunds. I just waited for the next train.

In the old days we all could have just thrown our open hot cups of coffee on Mr. Menace as a distraction as we hustled through the doors at the end of the car to the next. Or if things got ugly, pummeled him with our overstuffed back packs. But that’s against the rules.

Signs abound urging passengers, "If you see something, say something." But there was no one there to say anything too. No one in authority anyway. The cops were probably too busy with their hazardous duty of issuing summonses to coffee drinkers and seat sprawlers. And like I said, menacing is not on the list.

Saturday, November 26, 2005

Stage Time Mag

I would like to invite you to check out StageTimemag.com, a new online magazine committed to stand-up comedy. The premiere issue is available and features and interview with yours truly!!!

The Biography of Stepin Fetchit


Mel Watkins, author of On The Real Side: A History of African American Comedy, has just released a new book: Stepin Fetchit: The Life and Times of Lincoln Perry.

Editorial Review From Publishers Weekly:
The name Stepin Fetchit evokes images of an African-American caricature, a lazy, cowering fixture in early films. Watkins, a former New York Times Book Review editor, details the story behind the stereotype, examining the life and career of actor Lincoln Perry (1902–1985), creator of Stepin Fetchit. Watkins makes a case that the character's "rebellious, folk-inspired subversiveness (avoiding unrewarding labor by pretense and sham) was subverted and, ultimately, perverted." Perry started performing in early 20th-century traveling minstrel shows and was part of the two-man act "Step and Fetch It." By the early 1920s, when he reached Hollywood, he'd gone solo but kept the name. After breaking into films and working with luminaries like Will Rogers, he fought for treatment and salaries similar to his white co-stars. He became a millionaire; Hollywood pegged him as a troublemaker. Furthermore, the black middle class opposed his profligate lifestyle. Once the Civil Rights movement demanded more positive black images in the media, Stepin Fetchit became an embarrassment. Although Perry received a Special Image Award from the NAACP in 1976, his film work is not easily available. Watkins does an excellent job of capturing the distinctive voice of a determined and savvy film pioneer. Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Friday, November 25, 2005

Seeing Mr.Fabulous!!!

Tonight I had the rare pleasure of going out to see a fellow performer do his thing. The fabulous Keith Price did his one man show Ebony Chunky Love -- tonight at Don't Tell Mama's! I've have been trying to see this show for the last three weeks, and was lucky to catch his "final" performance. I put final in quotes, because I know a show with comedy, singing, dancing (y'all know how Keith can move it, move it on stage), soul searching and comedic candor can't really be over. Thanks for a great night, Keith!!!!

And to answer one of the show's burning questions: No, don't lower your standards!

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

Thank You For Being a Friend



That's right! I braved the Nor-Easter that whipped through the city today to get an autographed copy of the Season Three DVD of The Golden Girls!!!!!!! It was well worth the four hour wait. I got to Barnes & Noble in Chelsea at 10:30am, but some folks were in line at 6:30am this morning! I'm a big fan, but not that big.

Rue McClennehan (Blanche) and Betty White (Rose) were delightful. Bea Arthur (Dorothy) was a bit aloof. I'm giving her the benefit of the doubt though. At 82 years old, she is the oldest of the group and more than entitled to be a little cranky if she wants. :-) Estelle Getty (Sophia) did not attend.

Thursday, November 17, 2005

The Chicks of Chicks & Giggles

On Tuesday, Nov. 16, I had the pleasure of once again performing on Chicks & Giggles show at Mo Pikins. A wonderfully intimitate room in the East Village. After the show I was able to snag a picture with the show's producers Carolyn and Nichelle.


On Stage @ Mo Pitkins

Monday, November 14, 2005

Thanks Sorors!


Bigs Hugs to my Sorority sisters from my graduate chapter (Kappa Sigma, NY) who came out to see me at the Improv in a weekly show called Souled Comedy!

Thanks for the Sisterly Love!

Monday, October 31, 2005

Mommy Dearest



Okay NO, I am not pregnant, nor did I pick up a kid at the mall, but I will be hosting the Nick @ Night Search for the Funniest Mom in America 2 at Rascals Comedy Club in Montclair, NJ on Tuesday, November 1! For more information go to www.veryfunnylady.com!

Comedy for a Cause

Me and my comedy commadres brought the house down last Friday night at the Comedy Cabaret in Philly. Gina Brillon, Traci Skene, Ronette and Dina Blizzard (not pictured) shared our talents to raise money for The Linda Creed Breast Cancer Foundation.

Sunday, October 30, 2005

Reading is Fundamental!

One of my favorite shows during the New York City Underground Comedy Festival is the Library Series. This is the part of the festival that does free shows for the community at local libraries throughout the five boroughs.

This year I performed once again at the main library in Queens on Merrick Blvd; a place I spent a lot of time at in High School and College.

This all ages show was well attended and I was joined by Billy Bingo, and host and hubbie Jim Mendrinos.

Ah, Traffic

Been doing a lot of traveling lately; putting some miles on the new car. Yes, that's right. My trusty 1994 Honda Civic is no more. One transmission and two alternators later, it was past time to let go. My family held an intervention and "escorted" me into the dealership. My new "baby" is a 2005 Honda Civic. I let go of my sunroof and moved up to a four door. I almost feel like a grownup.

While I'm still getting used to having a car payment again and shelling out for higher insurance, it feels good to have a car where the windshield wipers work, the radio works, all the things on the dashboard that are supposed to light up do... Now if I can just figure out how to play my Ipod through through the car stereo. (FM transmitters are horrible in NY!)

But alas, no matter how new the car, it doesn't save me from this lovely view of I 95. :-) Imagine how slow traffic was moving if I had time enough to dig out my camera, focus and take a picture!



Baron Vaughn was gracious enough to open for me at Boston University!
This was particular cool since Baron is a BU alum!

Friday, October 14, 2005

Campus Kudos!

"I just wanted to let you know that I saw your act to other night at my school, and I absolutely loved it. You had me laughing the entire time. I really hope that you make a return trip to the campus sometime soon. Keep up the great work.Thanks again for all the laughs."

-- Student @ St. Vincent College, Latrobe, PA

Monday, October 3, 2005

NYC Underground Comedy Festival Begins!

That's right and I will be appearing in 12 (yes, 12) shows all week long during
Sunday, October 2 - Monday, October 10!
See me in Multiple Shows all week long!!!!!!

* * * * * * *

I am also on the cover of:
The premiere issue of StageTimeMag.com

As if that's not enough, I will be performing 3 colleges in 3 States!

10/4 Framingham College - MA
10/6 Drew University - NJ
10/7 Westminster College - PA

See a complete schedule of all my upcoming shows at:

Saturday, September 17, 2005

I'm Not Superstitious But ...

...but it does feel a little weird to be a given a hotel room with the number 911. I think I'd rather be on the 13th room in room with a cracked mirror.

Tuesday, September 13, 2005

T-Shirt Oragami

For all my fellow anal retentive, perfectionist, workaholics: If you ever wanted to know the precise way to fold a t-shirt this is it: CLICK HERE! This is absolutely amazing. And yes, I re-did my whole t-shirt drawer!!!

Friday, September 9, 2005

Souled Out @ The Improv

Dean Edwards, Rick Younger, Leighann Lord, Mark Theobald
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The Artists Formerly Known as "Uptown on Broadway" has changed it's name to "Souled Out Comedy" and appears every Thursday at the New York Improv.

Thursday, September 8, 2005

Comics Dressed for Success!

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Hosted by yours truly, these ladies brought down the house at Rascals in Montclair, NJ, for a comedy fundraiser for Dress Success, coordinated by Peggy Boyce of the Ladies of Laughter.

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Peer Kudos

You know, it's always nice when the audience enjoys what I do. But a compliment received from a peer really means a lot, especially since comics can be a jaded bunch. I worked with the wonderful Dale Sorenson at Joe Franklin's Comedy Club at Charlie O's and this is what he posted at Comedy Soapbox:

Leighann is joy to watch. Funny ... absolutely! But oh so classy and professional as well. She holds the audience in the palm of her hand, and delivers the laughs again and again. -Dale Sorenson

I may not be able to get my head out the front door to go to my next gig! :-)

Sunday, July 17, 2005

Why I've Been M.I.A.

Yes I know, I haven't blogged in while. I've been a little out of it.

On June 13 we put my dog Scruffy to sleep. She was 17 years old and very ill. She was predominantly a Terrier and that breed of dog really doesn't live past 10 or 12 years old; A tribute to the very loving care my Father has given her.

The vet told us it was time. There was nothing more that the medication or care could do for her. Scruffy's back legs were shot, her hearing and sight were going as well. In the past few months she'd dropped down to a scant 23 pounds. She used to be 48. She had also become sporadically incontinent and was no longer sleeping or eating well. Sadly, we had to finally admit what we already knew in our hearts and only the vet had the courage to say out loud.

We took her in, said our good-bye's and did the unthinkable. We sat with her until the end. It is one of the hardest things we've ever had to do. After 17 years, we lost a member of the family. I miss her terribly.

I'd like to thank everyone again for the outpouring of condolances. I greatly appreciate it.

Tuesday, May 31, 2005

Drama Mamas!

A perk of working in the entertainment field is getting to be around some very creative and talented people, who do amazing work. One of these amazing and talented friends, Passion, has just launched the new website for her documentary Drama Mamas!

"DRAMA MAMAS is a feature length documentary film conceived to examine the world of women at the helm of dramatic presentations. Women who push the proverbial envelope, 'hit it upside the head,' rip it to shreds and use the fragments to construct worlds that recall, illuminate, indict or beatify the human experience; as interpreted through 'herstory' with an African-identified virtuosity."

"For more than a generation, Black Women Directors have been a force in American Theatre and American Life. Their art has shaped our thoughts and our world through their vision, politics and very survival in an industry that hesitates to recognize their immense contribution. It is long past their time to be properly applauded."

As if this weren't amazing enough, they are trying to shoot and raise money at the same time! To get more information and to contribute to this incredible project please go to www.dramamamasthefilm.org.

Thursday, May 26, 2005

Class of 19?? Meets Class of 2005

I had the extreme pleasure this past weekend of attending my niece's High School Graduation. (What happened to my Little Boo?) Well, I've got a few inches on her (we're both wearing heels in the photo) so she's still my Little Boo; but now she's my College-Bound-Boo! I am so proud of her!!!!

I hope to be checking up on her.... I mean..... doing a show at her school very soon. (Note to self: call agent!)

Tuesday, May 24, 2005

Leighann Gets Sirius

Catch me on the very popular Four Quotas on Sirius Satellite Radio Channel 147, 7pm, May 28 Saturday. www.fourquotas.com

Sunday, May 15, 2005

Hanging With Legends

Accomplished veteran comic Tom Dreesen stopped by the Improv to visit the comics of Uptown on Broadway. It was an honor to sit and talk with this legendary man. Why is he a legend? Well for starters, he was the opening act for Frank Sinatra for 14 years! He and Tim Reed (WKRP in Cincinnati, Frank's Place) were the first and only interracial comedy team in America. There's not enough room to sing his praises here, so feel free to see him for yourself at http://tomdreesen.com/!

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Saturday, May 14, 2005

The Votes Are In

The students at Winthrop University (Rock Hill, SC) have voted and I placed as one of the top 5 comics brought to Winthrop this year! (See Archives January 2005.)

In the words of Elvis: Thank You! Thank You Very Much!

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Thursday, May 12, 2005

I'm in Cyber Print!

Intrepid reporter Nichelle Stevens -- co-producer of the fabulous all female comedy show Chicks and Giggles -- interviewed me for Gothamist, a website about New York. Check it out!


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Happy Birthday, Shayla!

Today, May 12, my oldest niece, Shayla turns 18! Where does the time go? It seems like she went from my energtic toddler to fabulous young lady over night. She graduates from high school next week and I couldn't be more proud of her if she were my own daughter. I know, I know... I'm a pathetic softie. Don't tell anybody!

Fortune Cookie # 381

We seem to be on a never ending quest to singlehandedly revitalize the economy of NYC's China Town. Jim and I find ourselves there sometimes as much as three times a week. It's hard to resist cheap food and surly service.

To that end I've amassed quite a collection of fortunes. Tonight's:

Success comes to those who work for it.
Yes, I'd like to think that. But sometimes life isn't fair, hard work doesn't always pay off, and sometimes lazy people get really lucky. Riddle me this, my fellow crusaders: What kind of work does Paris Hilton do?

I rest my case.

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www.veryfunnylady.com

Sunday, May 8, 2005

Back From Florida -- Brrrr.

Just back from my annual trek to the New York Comedy Club in Boca Raton, FL. The show's were good, but the weather was not. It was only 80 degrees. I never broke a sweat. In fact I was a little chilly. No I'm not kidding. I'm always cold. At this rate, I'm looking forward to the hot flashes of menopause. I know, I know. Becareful what you wish for.

Tuesday, May 3, 2005

New Web Address

Spelling my name a challenge? I felt the same way until I was seven. Well, no worries. You can also now find me on the web at www.veryfunnylady.com/!

Haven’t seen me in a while or just can’t get enough of great comedy? Listen!

Victory is Mine!

Yes, I won my battle with American Airlines! Last month they lost my luggage on a direct flight. Not an easy thing to do, but they managed to pull it off. Sans suitcase, I had to buy clothes. This was hardly tragic, given my predilection for shopping; but an unexpected and inconvenient expense nonetheless. Well, today I received a check from American Airlines reimbursing me for every penny: $279.53!

The bad news? Now I have to take all those anti-American Airlines jokes out of my act.

Sunday, May 1, 2005

Saturday, April 30, 2005

Quote of The Month: April

I thought you did a great job. I liked your writing, I thought your act was well thought out and delivered in a great, easy to listen to, style. I particularly liked your use of simile and metaphors. Keep up the great work, and don't totally forget me when you become famous.
-- D. Walker, Fellow Comic
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Okay, the English major in me may be biased, but how do you not appreciate a compliment from someone who admires your use of simile and metaphor?

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Chicks Rock!

Okay. You blew it. If you weren't in the house last night, 4/26, at Raga, you missed one helluva show. Chicks & Giggles absolutely rocked the house last night. I'm not saying that because I was on the show. :-) But I shared the stage with some truly funny, talented and supportive women. Each of them did their best to ruin the stereotype that women aren't funny.

Tuesday, April 26, 2005

I Won The Comedy Social Joke Off

FROM THE COMEDY SOCIAL WEBSITE: "Each week, featured comedians are given the same news headline and asked to create the funniest and most original punch line. The audience chooses the winner."

And yours truly won last week. I'm mentioning it now, because it's just been posted on the Comedy Social site. Click on The Comedy Social Joke Off to read the winning joke.

Friday, April 22, 2005

The Dessert Table in Heaven

Last Thursday I performed for a Ronald McDonald House Volunteer Appreciation Night in New Haven, Connecticut. The wonderful and dedicated volunteers were appreciated -- in part -- with a chocolate fountain! It was absolutely yummy, I had to take a picture! I do believe this is just a sneak peak of what you get when you go to heaven.

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www.leighannlord.com

Thursday, April 21, 2005

Ah, Spring...

Yes, I've been a little lax in my posting. Spring is in the air, a new Pope is on the thrown and I've just been out enjoying this run of fabulously warm weather we've been having.

I was hoping an American would ascend to the papacy, but with all the scandals it's far more likely they'd choose the Dali Lama, with the Ayatollah as back up.

But Pope Benedict the 16th is 78 years old. Something tells me we may be getting a new pope before the decade is out.

Saturday, April 9, 2005

Hey Baby, What's Your Tree?

On Thursday I performed at Café 7, a wonderful little coffee shop in uptown Manhattan that does a weekly Comedy and Poetry show (Show Schedule). It’s a great place to try new material in a cozy and supportive environment.

When I walked in, the emcee, Kim, asked me when my birthday is (September 2nd). I thought, ‘Hey, more presents? Cool.’ But alas, no. Very cleverly, Kim told me that akin to zodiac signs, birthdays correspond with what kind of tree you are. So I was introduced on stage as being a pine tree. And I quote (with commentary):

"Pine Tree: The Particular. Loves agreeable company (who doesn’t), very robust (I guess like steak sauce); knows how to make life comfortable, very active, natural, good companion, (I try) but seldom friendly (let’s keep that our little secret). Falls easily in love (sigh) but it’s passion burns out quickly (double sigh). Gives up easily (only when things are hard, inconvenient or uncomfortable). Everything disappoints until it finds the ideal, trustworthy, practical. (It’s not easy being a perfectionist.)"

This is, without a doubt, the most creative introduction I’ve ever had. I kinda dig it. Pine trees are tall, elegant and smell good. Who needs tv credits?

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Sunday, April 3, 2005

Me & Primetime Productions, the student activities crew at Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI
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Saturday, April 2nd: With a full house on a beautiful spring day in the UP (Upper Pennisula), my last scheduled college show of the season was a great success! The Primetime Productions crew did a great job promoting the event and I really enjoyed their very gracious hospitality. It was a schlep, but it was worth it.

FDA Women's Program

Jennifer Canale (Coordinator), Me, Claire Nicols (my sorority sister). The lady on the end was the winner of FDA's Phenomal Woman Contest.

I was invited to participate in the FDA's Women's Day Program last Thursday, March 31 and I had a blast! The color of the day was red, my favorite; and best of all it was 10 minutes from my house! At the end of my performance they presented me with this beautiful award! It doesn't get better than that!

Saturday, April 2, 2005

Brrrrrr

Wednesday: St. Thomas.
Saturday: Marquette, Michigan.

Where’s that? 455 miles north west of Detroit. Almost a thousand miles from home. I am out here; or up here. I could sneeze on a Canadian and hear them say God bless you.

They get about 250 inches of snow a year in Marquette. Some of it is still on the ground. On the ride in from the airport I saw people skiing. I’ve never been skiing in my life. Oh I’ve been on a ski trip or two, but I’ve never "hit the slopes." It’s not a "Black thing." It’s a "I-hate-cold-weather-sports-and-possibly-breaking-a-bone-thing." Steve, the shuttle driver, told me that’s there’s a group of skiers who come every year with their own crutches. I don’t know if that’s smart or pessimistic.

The people here are really nice. It’s like a small southern town with snow. "Everybody know’s everybody here and the crime rate is very low. Almost non-existent," said Steve. I believe it. If something ever was stolen, they’d probably know exactly who did. "Okay Bob, give it back."

For the record, my cell phone has no idea where I am. It’s been searching for a signal ever since I left Detroit. Instead of signal bars, I’ve got an icon of a little man scratching his head, looking at a map in consternation. And in case your wondering. My phone worked just fine in the Bahamas. I guess T-Mobile doesn’t like the cold either.



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Friday, April 1, 2005

Not Bad For On The Fly


Showtime on the Carnival Valor
American Airlines lost my luggage and I joined the Carnival Valor in Nassau with only the clothes on my back. On board ship for three days and no clothes, it was off to the on board gift shop. I thought I'd be doing my shows in a sweat suit, but being the newest ship in the Carnival fleet, the on board stores actually had some pretty fancy duds. The black silk pants blend into the background, but how about this top? The sleeves have pretty little sparkly things on them. Spiffy, eh?
Oh, by the way. I still don't have my bag. I lost it on Monday. Today is Friday.
(My wrath will be legendary. Hell hath no fury like a woman separated from her wardrobe.)

Thursday, March 31, 2005

Oh Yeah..... Happy Easter

In all my travel adventures over the past week, I completely forgot to wish everybody a happy and healthy Easter!

I guess I wasn't really in the Easter spirit since the Palm Sunday incident. What Palm Sunday incident you ask? Well let me tell you:

Every year my Mom goes to church on Palm Sunday and brings home a plethora of palms. She shares them with neighbors who are unable to go to church, and she brings me some too. (I'm able to go to Church, I just don't). We strategically place them around the house for good luck.

Not this year.

There's a new pastor in town who must be part priest, part efficiency expert. This year the palm buffet was closed. No more, "all the palms you can carry." Instead, the palms were parceled out. My Mom came home with barely a handful; a pittance. A palm paucity!

I know the church is trying to save money, but was there a big mark up on palms this year? First milk, then gas and now palms? Perhaps that's what I get for not reading the CNN news ticker.

On deeper reflection, I think this is just a shrewd plan to boost church attendance. With the demise of the palm home delivery service, I'll have to get up, go to church and get my own palms.

Nah, I'll just dust off last year's.

Monday, March 28, 2005

Okay --- Now I'm REALLY Warm

Traveling has been an adventure since Saturday. Due to major flight delays and a detour to Beaumont, Texas to refuel the plane, I literally missed the boat (the Carnival Imagination) in Cozumel. I spent the night in Houston courtesy of Continental Airlines.

On Sunday I flew to Miami, spent the night and flew out today (Monday) to meet the Carnival Valor in Nassau. I arrived. My bag didn't. On a direct flight from Miami to Nassua, American Airlines lost my bag. Well, they didn't so much lose my bag as they decided not to put it on the plane in the first place. Some gobbledy gook about weight restrictions. I'm not heavy, but my clothes however are another story.

American Airlines can get my bag back to me at my next port. Great! Which will be Wednesday in St. Thomas. Not so great. Two days and three shows with no clothes. Can you feel my joy? This is the oh so glamorous side of traveling.

I'm not normally a vengeful woman, but this is a frequent flier's nightmare. Too bad I packed my voodoo doll in the missing bag, or there'd be a tortured and screaming bag handler in Miami.

Friday, March 25, 2005

Don't Hate Me Because I'm Warm

Spring officially began on Sunday.
It snowed on Wednesday.
Thursday I was on a plane to the Bahamas.

A very happy coincidence. I flew down to Nassau to being another round of shows for Carnival Cruise Lines. This job definitely has it's perks.

Apparently, in the Northeast, Winter is not going out without a fight. On myway to the Comic Strip Wednesday night, I trudged through the cold, slushy streets carrying an umbrella that the wind blew inside out at least four times. And this was no $3-on-the-street special. No. This was my good umbrella. Let the wind steal my king size, push button Totes? I think not!

After that, it was a true pleasure to step off the plane in Nassau. Ahh, to be warm again. I'll take sun and warmth over cold and snow, any day. Now, if I could be warm and home at the same time. Is it Summer yet? I want Spring to take on Old Man Winter head to head and send it packing like the Ground Hog predicted.

Note to self: Fire the Ground Hog.

*******

Tuesday, March 22, 2005

Great Fan E-mail!

I caught your "doctors and prescriptions" routine on XM radio and when you started talking about having your eyebrows waxed ... I was laughing so hard I almost passed out while driving the car. This was the funniest routine ever, topping even the three greats: Eddie Murphy, Sam Kinison and George Carlin. You are really fantastic.

Saturday, March 19, 2005


UPTOWN ON BROADWAY: The 3/17/05 show at the NY Improv featured Rick Younger, Wali Collins, myself and Mike Yard! It was hosted by Rondell Hartely (not pictured). The next show will be: 9:30pm, Thursday, March 31, 2005,

UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA!

Monday, March 14, 2005

Medusa Gets Her Brows Done

I joke in my act that the first time I ever got my eye brows waxed it felt like a lobotomy. Sad to say, but brow waxing has become a ritual that I willingly submit to about once a month. No irony there. Somehow I’ve been sold on the fact that well maintained eye brows frame my face better and make me look good. Vanity is an exacting task master.

When I showed up last Thursday for my brow appointment my regular lady, Arlene, wasn’t there. It seems that she had quit just the week before. The spa rescheduled me with Halina, a petite woman with a heavy Eastern European accent, but said I could cancel if I wanted. What I wanted was Arlene, but I took the appointment with Halina. If I waited another week my eyebrows would look like the Amazon Rain Forest.

Well, when Miss Halina introduced herself to me and shook my hand, she exclaimed for all the world, "Oh my god, you need a hand treatment." Not a good start, Halina. Not a good start at all. But rest assured, sports fans, it gets better.As she’s doing my brows she says, "Dah’ling, you really need a facial." Now to be honest, I haven’t had a facial in while, but when I walk into a spa I’m not paying for blunt honesty. I’m paying for, "Wow you look great, here’s how we can make you look even better."

At one point Halina stops doing my brows all together so she can slather some cream onto my lips. Apparently she found the barren, arid wasteland above my chin way too distracting.At the end of the appointment, she earnestly grasped my sand paper like hands in hers and said, "Dah’ling, you’re going to need a better moisturizer or you’re going to age." I didn’t have the heart to tell her that we all age, whether we moisturize or not. Oil of Olay is great, but they don’t have anything in their existing product line that literally stops time. If they did, I’m sure I would have seen it on an episode of Star Trek.

When I left the house that day, I honestly thought I looked okay. Eye brows not with standing, I’m still a reasonably attractive woman in her prime. But after seeing Halina, I felt like a dried up hag. I began to wonder how I could have thoughtlessly inflicted my horrible visage upon the unsuspecting masses. I hope I didn’t inadvertently turn anyone to stone as I slithered to my appointment.

The pity of it is, Halina did a great job on my brows, but it’s clear she missed her calling. I’m thinking insurance salesman. "Dah’ling if you die without a policy, your family will hate you." Of course, I’ll never go back to Halina, unless I’m having one of those rare days with too much self esteem. Maybe I do look like hell, Dah’ling, but at least Arlene had the good grace not to tell me.

**************

Saturday, March 12, 2005

Michael Jackson in His Jammies

So, Michael Jackson showed up in court on Friday in his pajamas. That’s the smartest thing he’s done so far. If you’re gonna be in court for a while, you mind as well be comfortable.

Thursday, March 10, 2005

The Key Still Works in Savannah!

This past Wednesday found me in one of my favorite cities, Savannah, GA. I’ve performed in Savannah many times, and on one trip was presented with a key to the city. Thankfully they haven’t changed the locks!

On this visit I performed once again at Armstrong Atlantic State University. I first performed at Armstrong many years ago; vanity prevents me from remembering exactly how many. Back then, Armstrong was a two year school. The show was held at noon in the cafeteria, and I performed for a group of predominantly male students who, I think, were hoping for a different show. Many of them seemed deeply confused that a woman was standing in front of them, fully clothed.

Armstrong is now a full four-year university, with a 70% female student population. The early evening show had a very enthusiastic and receptive audience. All of us enjoyed ourselves! Afterwards we (me and members of the Campus Activities Board) dined sumptuously at The Outback Steakhouse!

Bonus: After the show, I met a woman who had first seen me perform at the now closed Comedy House in Savannah six years ago on her 18th birthday! When she found out – from her younger sister, and Armstrong’s Student Government President – that I would be performing at the school, she decided she had to come and see me again! How cool is that?

Nice to know the key to the city still works.

Tuesday, March 8, 2005

Comedy's Angels

Photo by Seth Wenig

Comedy's Angels: Ellen Lloyd, Leighann Lord and Karith Foster


This picture was taken during a photo shoot for an article about women in comedy for the debut print edition of Two Drink Minimum Magazine. Although this photo didn't make it into the mag, the photographer was kind enought to pass it along to me after a small amount of whining and pouting. THANK YOU SETH! Too see more of Seth's work go to www.sethwenigphotography.com!

More Talent in the Family

Hey Cats & Kittens!

Guess who’s got a musician in the family? That’s right! My cousin Jason has been profiled in the online music magazine Bass Player. If you scroll down to the end of the profile, there are two links that will let you let you hear his work!

Okay I'll stop braggin' now! : - ))))))))

Sunday, March 6, 2005

Big Ups to Birmingham!

Much love and thanks to my Sorors of Xi Mu Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., who turned out in force to see me perform at the University of Birmingham on Thursday, March 3!

Opening for Zooman (pictured bottom left), I was not the main event, but they sure made me feel like it! And I have to say the gift basket of candles, candy and cookies was MUCH appreciated!

Thursday, March 3, 2005

The First Ladies of Comedy

Pictured left to right: Edith (Reno's Pup), Reno, Vijai Nathan, Karith Foster, Me (Leighann Lord) and Dina Pearlman.

Last night I had the honor of performing at the prestigious Lucille Lortel Theatre for Woodhull's Ethical Women's Comedy Night. It's always a blast to get to work with friends! Smart comics, smart audience. Who could ask for more?

Wednesday, March 2, 2005

Return to the High Seas


After a six month hiatus (how much sun and sea can one person enjoy) I've just done my first cruise ship of 2005. Flying out of New York, a few hours ahead of a snow storm, I joined the Carnival Celebration in Key West and did THREE shows in one night!

An extra bonus for me was working again with Risa Barnes, Carnival's only female Cruise Director. The big guy in the middle of the picture wearing the cowboy hat is, of course, Assistant Cruise Director Big Tex.

The respite from the cold and snow was brief. I left the ship in Nassau the next day to fly back to New York; my long johns packed neatly next to my tank tops. Sigh.

Friday, February 25, 2005

Only A Fool.....


Only a fool would go out on a night like this. Guess who the fool is? I'll give you hint: third name from the bottom on the sandwich board.

In my "Little Red Riding Hood Meets Nanook of the North*" Coat, I went into the city to do a show at the Laugh Lounge. It was a comedy variety show raising money to produce the sketch film, Infinite Monkey, written by Jim Mendrinos.

Despite the freezing temperature (23 degrees, real feel 14), and a continuous snow fall (three to six inches), the audience came out and packed the house. With the exception of some brief and borderline bitter banter with a late arriving audience member the show was worth the perilous drive in.
Who am I kidding? I only did it to show off the coat.

* Nanook of the North refers to Robert Flaherty’s 1922 silent film documenting the lives of Eskimos in Canada.

Thursday, February 24, 2005

Cruisin' In Alabama


Check it out! I had the pleasure of driving this baby to my show at Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama. I usually don’t like driving. I much prefer to be picked up from the airport. I’m not spoiled. Okay, I’m spoiled. But I don’t like the hassle of renting a car or spending the extra money. If that makes me thrifty [read: cheap] and a touch spoiled, so be it.

Anyway, I reserved a compact car for $19.99, but when I got there, Enterprise was all out. They upgraded me – at no charge – to this Mitsubishi Spider Convertible. As you can tell, it’s technically still a compact, but not quite in the same league as the Geo Metro I was supposed to get.
Driving in the Spider, I didn’t even know myself. Actually, it gave me the opportunity to get to know myself better as I dropped the top and pumped Prince’s Musicology. (Old school joint for the true funk soldiers!) Who’s the Diva? Yes, y’all: Sunglasses on, Sisterlocks blowing in the wind. I drove to The Cracker Barrel in style!

I don’t know if I’ll be able to go back to my little reliable ‘94 Honda Civic. Oh dear.

Saturday, February 19, 2005

Grammy's? Missed It

Yes, it's true. I didn’t watch the Grammy Awards last Sunday. Yes, it would have been the comedically responsible thing to do, since award shows can provide a wealth of material. But I didn't watch. I can’t. In junior year of high school I made the mistake of staying up all night to watch the Grammy’s. About an hour in I gave up trying to do my homework on the commercial breaks. I told myself that I’d finish up after the show was over. Yeah, right. Calculus after midnight is a very scary thing. Not one of my wiser moments. Can you guess what happened? Nameless Artist of the Minute gets a Grammy. I got an F. Not cool. Thus, my award show policy: If I’m not nominated, I’m not watching.

Wednesday, February 16, 2005

Rocked @ NACA

(The Fabulous Kate Magill of Sophie K. Entertainment
-- my college agent -- & Moi hanging out in the booth at
the NACA Conference in my favorite city, Minneapolis!)

This month I showcased at the Annual NACA (National Association of Campus Activities) National Convention. Held in the amazing Minneapolis Convention Center, I performed on a large stage, flanked by jumbotron screens and felt like a rock star! The audience, made up of college student representatives and activities staff, was receptive and extremely complimentary.

What does this mean?

This showcase gave students from across the country the opportunity to see a wide range of talent (comedians, musicians, poets) and to choose who they would like to bring in to entertain on their campus. Mo' money! (At least the fine folks at Visa hope so!)

Tuesday, February 8, 2005

High Cost of Living In New York

There is an article in today’s The New York Times that says the cost of basic necessities has risen astronomically in New York, faster than the rest of the nation; making it harder for New Yorkers to make ends meet. A friend of mine told me about the article since, being a native New Yorker, I couldn’t actually afford to buy the New York Times.

Deep Throat's Identity Revealed!

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Tuesday, February 1, 2005

Iraq Elections

Using a computerized system, similar to the one in Ohio, the votes are in and it seems that George Bush has won the election in Iraq. Let's hear it for the democratic process.

Wednesday, January 26, 2005

Leighann vs. American Idol!

Last night, I had the honor of being the first comedian to perform in the newly opened Student Activities Center at Georgia College & State University! It was a small but mighty crowd which included my Sorority Sisters from Augusta who – thanks to Soror Simpkins – road tripped up to see me. It’s a good thing they did too; they made up half the audience! It was Leighann Lord vs. American Idol but the savvy folks chose me!

Sunday, January 23, 2005

Comedy Commentary: Subway Fire

Investigators believe Sunday's (January 23) fire, which broke out at the Chambers Street subway station in Manhattan, was started by a homeless man trying to keep warm during the blizzard. The damage could take three to five years and millions of dollars to repair.

Wouldn't it have been cheaper to make sure this man has a nice warm house to live in?

Cool Compliment

"It was great to see you last week. I am so impressed with your work and so thrilled that you show that you can be sexy and smart all at the same time."

G. Green-Hodnett, Show at Marymount University 1/20/05


Response to VH1's Outrageous Hair

"Those countdown shows are my guilty pleasure. I was so happy and surprised to see you. You were funny, gorgeous and on top of your game. So proud to see you doing your thing."

-- R. Harris (VH1's 40 Outrageous Hair Moments premiered on 1/14/05)


Saturday, January 22, 2005

Blizzard Cancels 1/22 Show!

Due to the Blizzard of 2005 The Jazz and Sweet Potato Pie Lounge Comedy Show at the Black Spectrum Theatre scheduled for 8pm, Sat., January 22, has been cancelled!

Friday, January 21, 2005

And A Time to Laugh!

It was clearly a time to laugh on Friday, January 21, when I received a standing ovation at The Women's Day Comedy Dinner sponsored by Mount Jezreel Baptist Church in Silver Spring, MD.

The evening also featured the incredible poetry of Renee Gardner and the amazing music of gospel group Anaiah! (I, who can't carry a tune with a forklift, listened in awe as these women sang with nothing less than the voices of angels!)

The event was superbly hosted by Mount Jezreel's own Ms. Kerry Parker, who's immense spirit, effervescent personality and great sense of humor set the tone for a wonderful evening. (I don't know what Kerry does for a living, but I think she'd do quite well if she ever decided to take the stage as a standup comedian.)

This kick off event raised $1,000, which will go to local women's shelter.

Tuesday, January 18, 2005

Winthrop University Rocks!


On Friday, January 14, I performed once again at Winthrop University! www.winthrop.edu/studentaffairs/dsu/
Recently voted Best College Programming Board of 2003 - 2004, it's easy to see why. The students are great, the hospitality is stellar and the Director of Campus Programs, Boyd Jones, (pictured above) is THE BEST.

Being out on the road can be tough, but when you perform at Winthrop they treat you like family (a functional, loving family). They go out of their way to make you feel right at home. It was GREAT to be back!
THANKS WINTHROP!

Blue & Gold in South Carolina!


My Sorority Sisters of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.*, www.sgrho1922.org/index2.html came out to see the show the Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC, on Friday, January 14, 2005! Members of the undergraduate chapter, Lambda Kappa, presented me with a beautiful vase of flowers. The graduate chapter, Beta Omicron Sigma, gave me a wondeful royal blue goodie bag stuffed with, well... goodies!
THANK YOU SORORS!
*Leighann Lord has been a member of Sigma Gamma Rho since 1988!

Blue & Gold in Georgia!


My Sisters of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.* www.sgrho1922.org/index2.html turned out to see me perform at Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta, Georgia, on Wednesday, January 12, 2005! Special thanks go to Soror Felicia Blakeney who wasted no time in getting the word out about my upcoming appearances!

THANK YOU SORORS!

* Leighann Lord has been a member of Sigma Gamma Rho since 1988!

Monday, January 10, 2005

See Leighann on VH1

Tune into VH1 and catch some of my catty commentary on:
VH1's 40 Most Shocking Hair Moments!
Premieres 9pm, Friday, January 14
(Repeats 1/14 @ Midnight, Sat., Jan. 15 @ 12:30pm and 7:00pm.)

Friday, January 7, 2005

Two Drink Minimum Debuts In Print

The first print issue of Two Drink Minimum, previously an internet comedy magazine, hits the stands on January 15! Click here: New Magazine Dedicated to the World of Stand-Up Comedy Debuts Jan 15

The debut issue features an article about women in comedy, and yes, I'm included! It's a must read for comedy fans. For more details go to www.twodrinkmin.com.



Saturday, January 1, 2005

Happy 2005!

I am looking forward to a great 2005, especially since 2004 was pretty amazing. Some of the professional highlights include:

  • Performing in the Boston Comedy Festival, the Montreal Comedy Festival and the New York City Underground Comedy Festival
  • Performing at The Comedy Store in London
  • Getting New Headshots
  • Seeing The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Comedy Writing, written by my husband Jim Mendrinos, hit book store shelves.
  • Working with Carnival Cruise Lines
  • Hosting a show during the Ladies of Laughter Competition
  • Showcasing at the NACA South Conference
  • Performing at the Friar’s Club
  • Performing at the 2nd Annual Comedy Week at The Greenhouse Spa!
  • Signing with Paradigm
  • Hosting the NYC Comedy Showcase!
  • Appearing on Comedy Central’s Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn
  • Taping the World Stands Up in London for Comedy Central
The opportunities have really been amazing! I got to work with a lot of very good people, and I have received a wealth of love and support from my family, friends and colleagues. I thank everyone who helped make 2004 such a wonderful year.

I wish you all a very Healthy
and Prosperous New Year!

A Favorite 2004 Photo!


Me in the at the London Bridge Underground (the subway) station in ... well... London!