All comedian/actress Mo’Nique could say when she won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Mary in “Precious” was “wow.”

After taking a moment to soak in her win, a poised but emotional Mo’Nique said, “Thank you very much to every member of the Screen Actors Guild. I am honored,” the poised comedienne said during the live telecast of the 16th annual awards ceremony,  held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.

MO’NIQUE

The Screen Actors Guild Award is given to actors by actors. It is unique from other awards ceremony’s because voting is done by other actors who are paid members of the guild.

Step Afrika stomped into town Jan. 17 with a dynamic and electrifying vibe that left the Bynham Theater audience energized and in awe.

Known as the first professional company in the world dedicated to the tradition of stepping, Step Afrika has received critical acclaim for its performances. Founded in 1994 by Brian Williams, a Howard University graduate and Alpha Phi Alpha stepper, he formed the group after an inspirational from a trip to South Africa.

STEP AFRIKA DANCERS

Based in Washington, D.C., Step Afrika began as a cross-cultural exchange program with the Soweto Dance Theatre of Johannesburg, South Africa. The company attempts to bring an understanding of and appreciation for stepping by using the dance tradition’s that makes stepping an educational tool for young people worldwide. Step Afrika reaches tens of thousands of people around the globe each year and has performed on many stages in North and South America, Europe, Africa and the Caribbean.

My first stop was at the S-Bar where everyone came out from all over the city to get their party on.

My second stop was at the Southside 86, which is Pittsburgh Steeler Hines Ward’s new bar, and it is off the chain. You have to come out and check this place out.

R&B diva Monica hanging out at Krobar in the Strip District to meet and greet with her fans.

STEP AFRIKA DANCERS

Thursday 28

Jazz jam

CJ’s Restaurant & Lounge presents “The Roger Humphries & RH Factor Jazz Jam Session” at 8 p.m. at 2901-2911 Penn Ave., Strip District. There will be live jazz and fun every Thursday night. Must be 30 years or older and there is a dress code that will be enforced. No tennis shoes, sweats or athletic gear. For more information, call 412-642-2377.