Windy City pays tribute to Robert Downey Jr!

Photo: Actor Robert Downey, Jr. accepted the Gene Siskel Film Center s Renaissance Award at its annual gala to support the center s excellent film programming and educational initiatives on June 19, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. Renamed in honor of the late film critic in 2000, the Gene Siskel Film Center presents approximately 1,500 screenings and more than 100 guest artist appearances year to more than 80,000 film enthusiasts. Attendees of the sold-out event sipped on cocktails and had a luscious dinner while listening to a conversation with actor Robert Downey, Jr. and Todd Phillips, who directed Downey in the upcoming movie Due Date. Phillips' most recent film is The Hangover, the highest-grossing R-rated comedy off all time.  Article by: Rumer Certeza (Fame Pictures, Zumapress)

It wasn't long before Robert Downey Jr. would be recognized as one of Hollywood's powerhouses of this era. Two thumbs up!

But persistence sure paid off, as Chicago gave tribute to the 45-year-old star, with the Gene Siskel Film Center honoring him with the prestigious Renaissance Award, held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. The accolade represented Downey as "one of the most respected and versatile actors of this generation."

Ancient were those days when the actor was plagued with drug problems, and had trouble staying sober despite several drug rehab programs. Gone were the days when film producers would think twice on signing him up. But that certainly was worth the risk as he would bounce back, emerging from the depths of slumber and establish himself once again as Tinseltown's powerhouse.

Among some of Downey's comeback movies were 'Gothika,' 'Charlie Chaplin and 'Kiss Kiss Bang Bang' yet it was in 2008 where the actor/musician would have his first taste of the box office, stringing up consecutive blockbusters, with Marvel's metallic hero 'Iron Man' and the comedy hit, 'Tropic Thunder' directed by Ben Stiller. And from then on, there was no way but up!

Ben Stiller once referred to Downey as the 'Actor Man,' where the latter has always ruled when it comes to raw acting talent.

What could I say, I simply love the guy. Keep it up, buddy!

Graeme McDowell: Victory at Pebble!

Photo: Graeme McDowell of Northern Ireland holds the winner's trophy
 after capturing the U.S. Open Golf Championship in
Pebble Beach, California of the United States, June 20, 2010. 

O hail the great Irishman!

Sorry, Tiger. But Pebble Beach is a different story this year, with the world witnessing a new champ in the mold of Graeme McDowell this Sunday.

The Ireland pride, being the first European ever to bag the U.S. Open title since three decades ago, thwarted any last attempts by opposition Gregory Harvet from France. He capped it off at even-par 284, and shot a 3-over 74.

Woods, who owned Pebble Beach back in 2000, tied with Phil Mickelson at fourth, making four bogeys and shot a 4-over 75. They trailed Ernie Els who took 3rd place at 2 over.

Meanwhile, Havret claimed second, and was a close shave for the Irishman. The Frenchman was a hole behind, with two holes remaining but just couldn't convert on a birdie to tie on hole 18 par 5.

Tiger, you exceeded expectations. And congratulations to the new champ!