Urban Thought Collective

PENNY FOR YOU THOUGHTS … WITH DONIELLE ARTESE
Donielle Artese stars with Adam Sandler in “Don’t Mess With The Zohan” opening this weekend.

In 5 words or less, what do you think about…

George Bush?
Needs to be smacked!

Bill Clinton?
That’s between him and Hillary.

Malcolm X?
Wish he was here to smack G.W.B.

Flavor Flav?
This guy has another show???

What is your airplane ritual? IPod? Sleep? Sweat Pants? Alcohol? Spill the beans.
I love listening to my iPod, while playing games on my cell phone. And depending on the flight, I may sleep or watch a movie. Attire depends on who I’m gonna see when I get off the plane!

What do you think about the war in Iraq?
I’m grateful that we have brave men and women willing to fight and serve for our country. BUT, is this really about us, or for us? I would dare say, NOT.

Tell us about your tattoos.
I have two tattoos. One is on my stomach, a pair of cherries–I went with a friend to support her, wanted another one, but that was all I could afford that day. The other one is a cover up of my first one, and it’s an angel. It’s beautiful and detailed, and it’s made from a picture of me. The original was a pair of ballet slippers (because I was a dancer for most of my life) and my actual signature … but it got old and faded, and looked very juvenile. Not to mention, the slippers kept getting mistaken for chili peppers!

What do you think about interracial relationships?
This answer is always controversial for people, so let me try to be politically correct: They are not for me, but if it works for someone else, then GREAT! How was that?

Who was your celebrity crush growing up?
It was a toss up between Michael Jackson, Todd Bridges, Billy Dee Williams, and Scott Baio…yes I realize he’s white!

Who is your celebrity crush now?
A football player…did you think I was really gonna say his NAME?!!

What song and artist would people be surprised to know you dig?
I have really eclectic taste in music, but, hmmm…”Tin Man” by America.

What’s your favorite late-night snack?
Late-night, mid-day, breakfast, hands down…ICE CREAM!!!!!

Who is the biggest influence in your personal life?
Corny, but true…God

What is on your Tivo right now?
“Lost,” “Ugly Betty,” “Dexter,” “Top Chef,” “Snapped,” “Joel Osteen,” “Dancing With The Stars,” “Step up and Dance,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Eli Stone,” “The Big Give,” “Oprah,” “Dateline,” “Another 48 Hours Mystery,” “Criminal Minds,” “Different Strokes,” “The Jefferson’s’” “Good Times,” “Sanford and Son,” and “All In The Family.” (thank GOD for Nickelodeon!)

Obama, Clinton or McCain?
OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Name one book that you consider a must read.
“The Four Agreements” by Miguel Ruiz

What frightens you?
I’ve faced death and beat it, so not much.

Shout out the website for a cause/issue that’s close to your heart.
A cause that is close to my heart is the disease Lupus. I was diagnosed with Lupus when I was 18, and it has almost taken my life twice. Because it generally affects African-American women, it does not get the attention and funding it needs. It is one of the deadliest diseases black women face. One of the main forces driving me to be a successful actress is so that I can have a voice, and be an advocate for finding a cure. I want people to know how much pain it causes families. I made a promise to a mother who, in a matter of 6 months, lost her 22 year old daughter to Lupus. I told her that I would get her story out there, and I make it a point to keep my promises.