They say that he swims like a fish and who could deny he is the crowd favorite! You can say he is living the American dream.
He makes his mother smile, he plans to write books, and able to mix it up with the hottest stars in music and Hollywood. With all this, who needs swimming? (Well, even though swimming is what got him here!)
Certainly not Michael Phelps — not anymore, at least. Yet on the platform again but not for a gold medal. Michael Phelps will be a presenter at the 2008 Video Music Awards, all that fresh Olympic bling will certainly help.
The swimmer who took home a record-breaking eight gold medals from the Beijing Games joins noted celebrities Miley Cyrus, Scarlett Johansson, Lindsay Lohan and Ciara as presenters at the Sept. 7 VMAs telecast from Los Angeles. British comedian Russell Brand will host.
It's been a busy week for Phelps, who announced he'll write a book about his road to Olympic history (to be released just in time for the holidays) and plans to host the season premiere of "Saturday Night Live." On Thursday, Phelps was in New York City, filming a cameo for the HBO series "Entourage," and on Friday, he celebrated with a parade at Walt Disney World in Florida.
Talk about cashing in your gold!!!
Certain parts of this article have been pulled from: http://news.yahoo.com/story//ap/20080829/ap_en_ce/music_mtv_awards_phelps
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Obama Makes Headlines and History! Historic Event Happens on the 45th Anniversary of MLK's 'I Have A Dream' Speech.
*Surrounded by an enormous, adoring crowd, Barack Obama promised a clean break from the "broken politics in Washington and the failed policies of George W. Bush" Thursday night as he embarked on the final lap of his audacious bid to become the nation's first black president.
"America, now is not the time for small plans," the 47-year-old Illinois senator told an estimated 84,000 people packed into Invesco Field, a huge football stadium at the base of the Rocky Mountains.
He vowed to cut taxes for nearly all working-class families, end the war in Iraq and break America's dependence on Mideast oil within a decade. By contrast, he said, "John McCain has voted with President Bush 90 percent of the time," a scathing indictment of his Republican rival — on health care, education, the economy and more.
Polls indicate a close race between Obama and McCain, the Arizona senator who stands between him and a place in history. On a night 45 years after Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I have a Dream Speech," Obama made no overt mention of his own race.
"I realize that I am not the likeliest candidate for this office. I don't fit the typical pedigree" of a presidential candidate was as close as he came to the long-smoldering issue that may well determine the outcome of the election.
Fireworks lit the night sky as Obama accepted the cheers of his supporters. His wife, Michelle, and their daughters Malia and Sasha joined him, and the country music sounds of "Only in America" filled the stadium.
Article pulled from EurWeb
"America, now is not the time for small plans," the 47-year-old Illinois senator told an estimated 84,000 people packed into Invesco Field, a huge football stadium at the base of the Rocky Mountains.
He vowed to cut taxes for nearly all working-class families, end the war in Iraq and break America's dependence on Mideast oil within a decade. By contrast, he said, "John McCain has voted with President Bush 90 percent of the time," a scathing indictment of his Republican rival — on health care, education, the economy and more.
Polls indicate a close race between Obama and McCain, the Arizona senator who stands between him and a place in history. On a night 45 years after Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I have a Dream Speech," Obama made no overt mention of his own race.
"I realize that I am not the likeliest candidate for this office. I don't fit the typical pedigree" of a presidential candidate was as close as he came to the long-smoldering issue that may well determine the outcome of the election.
Fireworks lit the night sky as Obama accepted the cheers of his supporters. His wife, Michelle, and their daughters Malia and Sasha joined him, and the country music sounds of "Only in America" filled the stadium.
Joe Biden and Baraka Obama walk hand and hand at Invesco Field post speech
Campaigning as an advocate of a new kind of politics, he suggested at least some common ground was possible on abortion, gun control, immigration and gay marriage.
Obama delivered his 44-minute nominating acceptance speech in an unrivaled convention setting, before a crowd of unrivaled size — the filled stadium, the camera flashes in the night, the made-for-television backdrop that suggested the White House, and the thousands of convention delegates seated around the podium in an enormous semicircle.
Obama and his running mate, Sen. Joseph Biden. of Delaware, leave their convention city on Friday for Pennsylvania, first stop on an eight-week sprint to Election Day.
McCain countered with a bold move of his own, hoping to steal some of the political spotlight by spreading word that he had settled on a vice presidential running mate. Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty canceled all scheduled appearances for the next two days, stoking speculation that he was the one.
The McCain campaign also produced a TV ad that congratulates Obama for his nomination: "Senator Obama, this is truly a good day for America. Too often the achievements of our opponents go unnoticed. So I wanted to stop and say, congratulations. How perfect that your nomination would come on this historic day. Tomorrow, we'll be back at it. But tonight, senator, job well done."
Article pulled from EurWeb
Obama Makes History and Kanye Remembers His Mother!
As America's first black presidential nominee was celebrated at the Democratic National Convention this week, the thoughts of many African Americans turned toward deceased loved ones who did not live to witness it happen.
"It's an incredible time to be around. I wish my momma could have seen this day," said Kanye West to the Associated Press early Thursday before his performance at Bono's ONE campaign party.
West, whose set included "Touch the Sky," "Home" and "Stronger," was also joined on stage by Jamie Foxx to sing "Gold Digger," which the Oscar winner preceded with a shout out to Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.
"We make history, man," Foxx told the crowd. "With Obama, we make history. If you ready for Obama, make some noise. Yo man, let's do this for Obama."
West was backed by a band clad in black outfits that were described by the Associated Press as Mad Max-meets-DNC riot police. The Chicago-born artist also sang two new songs he said he'd written in the past several days – both more focused on relationships and heartbreak than politics.
The ONE party also drew such celebs as Forest Whitaker and Ashley Judd, who arrived with Foxx waving an American flag, Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey, former Virginia Gov. Mark Warner and former South Dakota Sen. Tom Daschle.
Story pulled from http://www.eurweb.com/
"It's an incredible time to be around. I wish my momma could have seen this day," said Kanye West to the Associated Press early Thursday before his performance at Bono's ONE campaign party.
West, whose set included "Touch the Sky," "Home" and "Stronger," was also joined on stage by Jamie Foxx to sing "Gold Digger," which the Oscar winner preceded with a shout out to Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.
"We make history, man," Foxx told the crowd. "With Obama, we make history. If you ready for Obama, make some noise. Yo man, let's do this for Obama."
West was backed by a band clad in black outfits that were described by the Associated Press as Mad Max-meets-DNC riot police. The Chicago-born artist also sang two new songs he said he'd written in the past several days – both more focused on relationships and heartbreak than politics.
The ONE party also drew such celebs as Forest Whitaker and Ashley Judd, who arrived with Foxx waving an American flag, Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey, former Virginia Gov. Mark Warner and former South Dakota Sen. Tom Daschle.
Story pulled from http://www.eurweb.com/
New Artist Album Release Party: Qwote!
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact/To Request Photos:
Rochelle Hill, Precision Plus
On behalf of First Class Alliance
917-446-1752
NYCPrecisionPlus@aol.com
MY TATTOO SHOP PRESENTS: QWOTE, LIVE
Single Release Party for His Hit, "808," featuring Plies
South Beach, Fl. - Friday night at SOBE Live would have been a usual take on ladies night with free admission and free drinks--which we love--but this past Friday they served up something sexy and sizzling with a live performance by Slip-N-Slide/Jive/Final Cut new R&B/pop sensation Qwote. The ladies loved Qwote as he performed three songs, including his new hit "808," featuring Plies. One lucky lady was called onto the stage and danced with Qwote as he swooned her like they were making his next video. The doors opened at 11 p.m. to a long line of ladies in waiting. At about 2:30 a.m. they got the show they had been waiting for.
Thanks to SOBE Live's open bar for the ladies, they had plenty to occupy them until the stage lit up. The mood and the pre-performance hype was set, as the legendary DJ Q45, BET "Rap City" host, spun on the wheels of steel. The energy was contagious and continued throughout Qwote's entire performance.
My Tattoo Shop was the sponsor of this standing room only event. Its owner, Freddy, also known as the famous Mistical Clown, showed up in style and the paparazzi noticed. Mistical Clown arrived in his yellow Lamborghini and the shutterbugs began flashing. Apparently, being the owner of six tattoo shops has served him well.
In collaboration with Micah Entertainment and First Class Alliance, SOBE Live pulled off an R&B/pop performance at a venue well known for being a hip-hop haven. But, with Qwote being on Slip-N-Slide Records it all made sense and the fans responded. It all went off well and surely this is just the beginning of the buzz for this new Slip-N-Slide/Jive/Final Cut Records recording artist.
About Qwote
Qwote is Slip-N-Slide Records/Jive Records/Final Cut's new musical sensation. Raised in Long Island, NY and Miami, his love for music drove him to start writing his own lyrics at the age of twelve. Qwote's first big break came when he was called to work on rap star Trina's album, "Still the Baddest." While working at Slip-N-Slide Record's music studio and soon after the production work with Trina, Slip-N-Slide label executives locked in his first major music deal with Jive Records. His debut album, "Qwote Un Qwote," will be released in the beginning of 2009. Visit http://www.slipnsliderecords.net , http://www.qwotemusic.com , and http://www.myspace.com/qwote to learn more.
About First Class Alliance
First Class Alliance is a multi-disciplined marketing consulting agency that provides strategic solutions for today's ROI-minded, brand sensitive advertisers. First Class Alliance takes its clients beyond "sales," by creating experiences that engage consumers and build brand value, resulting in long-term customer loyalty. First Class Alliance specializes in the development of branded content by aligning brands with relevant celebrities in the entertainment industry. First Class Alliance creates smart, cross-channel marketing programs that influence consumers, generate sales, and increase your bottom line profits. To learn more, visit http://www.firstclassalliance.com.
About SOBE Live
SOBE Live is where hip-hop lives. Located in the heart of South Beach, 1203 Washington Avenue, this is south Florida's leading venue for hip-hop performances. SOBE Live creates mind blowing performances by local, up-and-coming artists, and chart toppers. SOBE Live is committed to hosting a diverse array of events such as fashion shows, magazine and movie release parties, concerts, and live television tapings.
About My Tattoo Shop
My Tattoo Shop is the fastest growing tattoo shop in south Florida with five shops located in Pompano Beach, Hollwood, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Haileah. The company's success came from a simple marketing tactic as the "2 for 1" tattoos. My Tattoo Shop is in the process of opening its doors at its sixth location next month, with the goal of having a My Tattoo Shop location on every corner--just like that famous coffee shop. Visit http://www.mytattooshop.com to learn more.
###
Rochelle Hill
President and Chief Strategist
PRECISION PLUS COMMUNICATIONS
"Pinpointing your marketing needs"
(917) 446-1752
NYCPrecisionPlus@aol.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact/To Request Photos:
Rochelle Hill, Precision Plus
On behalf of First Class Alliance
917-446-1752
NYCPrecisionPlus@aol.com
MY TATTOO SHOP PRESENTS: QWOTE, LIVE
Single Release Party for His Hit, "808," featuring Plies
South Beach, Fl. - Friday night at SOBE Live would have been a usual take on ladies night with free admission and free drinks--which we love--but this past Friday they served up something sexy and sizzling with a live performance by Slip-N-Slide/Jive/Final Cut new R&B/pop sensation Qwote. The ladies loved Qwote as he performed three songs, including his new hit "808," featuring Plies. One lucky lady was called onto the stage and danced with Qwote as he swooned her like they were making his next video. The doors opened at 11 p.m. to a long line of ladies in waiting. At about 2:30 a.m. they got the show they had been waiting for.
Thanks to SOBE Live's open bar for the ladies, they had plenty to occupy them until the stage lit up. The mood and the pre-performance hype was set, as the legendary DJ Q45, BET "Rap City" host, spun on the wheels of steel. The energy was contagious and continued throughout Qwote's entire performance.
My Tattoo Shop was the sponsor of this standing room only event. Its owner, Freddy, also known as the famous Mistical Clown, showed up in style and the paparazzi noticed. Mistical Clown arrived in his yellow Lamborghini and the shutterbugs began flashing. Apparently, being the owner of six tattoo shops has served him well.
In collaboration with Micah Entertainment and First Class Alliance, SOBE Live pulled off an R&B/pop performance at a venue well known for being a hip-hop haven. But, with Qwote being on Slip-N-Slide Records it all made sense and the fans responded. It all went off well and surely this is just the beginning of the buzz for this new Slip-N-Slide/Jive/Final Cut Records recording artist.
About Qwote
Qwote is Slip-N-Slide Records/Jive Records/Final Cut's new musical sensation. Raised in Long Island, NY and Miami, his love for music drove him to start writing his own lyrics at the age of twelve. Qwote's first big break came when he was called to work on rap star Trina's album, "Still the Baddest." While working at Slip-N-Slide Record's music studio and soon after the production work with Trina, Slip-N-Slide label executives locked in his first major music deal with Jive Records. His debut album, "Qwote Un Qwote," will be released in the beginning of 2009. Visit http://www.slipnsliderecords.net , http://www.qwotemusic.com , and http://www.myspace.com/qwote to learn more.
About First Class Alliance
First Class Alliance is a multi-disciplined marketing consulting agency that provides strategic solutions for today's ROI-minded, brand sensitive advertisers. First Class Alliance takes its clients beyond "sales," by creating experiences that engage consumers and build brand value, resulting in long-term customer loyalty. First Class Alliance specializes in the development of branded content by aligning brands with relevant celebrities in the entertainment industry. First Class Alliance creates smart, cross-channel marketing programs that influence consumers, generate sales, and increase your bottom line profits. To learn more, visit http://www.firstclassalliance.com.
About SOBE Live
SOBE Live is where hip-hop lives. Located in the heart of South Beach, 1203 Washington Avenue, this is south Florida's leading venue for hip-hop performances. SOBE Live creates mind blowing performances by local, up-and-coming artists, and chart toppers. SOBE Live is committed to hosting a diverse array of events such as fashion shows, magazine and movie release parties, concerts, and live television tapings.
About My Tattoo Shop
My Tattoo Shop is the fastest growing tattoo shop in south Florida with five shops located in Pompano Beach, Hollwood, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Haileah. The company's success came from a simple marketing tactic as the "2 for 1" tattoos. My Tattoo Shop is in the process of opening its doors at its sixth location next month, with the goal of having a My Tattoo Shop location on every corner--just like that famous coffee shop. Visit http://www.mytattooshop.com to learn more.
###
Rochelle Hill
President and Chief Strategist
PRECISION PLUS COMMUNICATIONS
"Pinpointing your marketing needs"
(917) 446-1752
NYCPrecisionPlus@aol.com
UPDATE! CHRIS PAUL CELEBRATES---AND IT'S FOR CHARITY! IN WINSTON SALEM!
Chris Paul’s dedication to his community began long before he became an NBA Star. During the summer of 2005, Chris initiated a philanthropic campaign designed to highlight his dedication both to his grandfather’s spirit and to the Winston-Salem Community that nurtured him from his days as a stand-out high school student-athlete to a national star at Wake Forest.
It was from this dedication Chris Paul and his family created the CP3 Foundation in partnership with The Winston-Salem Foundation... (read more on http://www.ChrisPaul3.com)
It was from this dedication Chris Paul and his family created the CP3 Foundation in partnership with The Winston-Salem Foundation...(read more on http://www.ChrisPaul3.com)
Want to know what is going on for Chris Paul's Weekend...
http://www.ChrisPaul3.com
Thursday, September 18
Just announced! Ludacris along with David Banner and Hot Stylz will perform at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum for a concert presented by Chris Paul. The max ticket price will be $20.00 along with many available tickets at the $15.00 and $10.00 price points.
Tickets are now on sale and are available at the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum box office, Ticketmaster outlets including FYE, Macy’s and Lowes Food Stores, by phone in Winston-Salem...
Go to http://www.ChrisPaul3.com
NFL Veterans Team Up to Assist. Check out Athletes Allied Athlete Group
Professional athletes secure lifelong career success with access to "best in class" business, personal, education, networking, and investment opportunities.
ATLANTA, GA August, 2008 -- Armed with over 46 years of combined professional athletic experience, NFL veterans: Ray Lewis, Michael Stone, Reggie Howard, Sam Madison, and Duane Starks introduce their company, Allied Athlete Group at a private five star hotel on August 31 2008 at 7:00 p.m.
An organization aimed at empowering athletes with the tools to ensure their success both during and after their athletic careers come to an end; Allied Athlete Group is poised to make resounding waves within the sports and business communities.
The statistics are startling. According to the NBA Players' Association, 66 % of NBA players will be bankrupt, divorced, or unemployed within 5 years of retirement. The percentages jump to 78% of NFL players within just 2 years of retirement. With the financial woes of several well known, top earning, athletes making major splashes in media headlines, the arrival of Allied Athlete Group answers a serious call within the athlete community.
It is no secret that professional athletes can make tremendous incomes; unfortunately most of them do not fully understand the leverage that is created during their career. This lack of knowledge creates opportunities for various "representatives" to take advantage of the athletes' leverage in a multitude of ways. This usury often results in the trusted representative making huge profits from the athletes and leaving them abruptly when their career comes to an end. AAG exists to help bridge this gap.
ATLANTA, GA August, 2008 -- Armed with over 46 years of combined professional athletic experience, NFL veterans: Ray Lewis, Michael Stone, Reggie Howard, Sam Madison, and Duane Starks introduce their company, Allied Athlete Group at a private five star hotel on August 31 2008 at 7:00 p.m.
An organization aimed at empowering athletes with the tools to ensure their success both during and after their athletic careers come to an end; Allied Athlete Group is poised to make resounding waves within the sports and business communities.
The statistics are startling. According to the NBA Players' Association, 66 % of NBA players will be bankrupt, divorced, or unemployed within 5 years of retirement. The percentages jump to 78% of NFL players within just 2 years of retirement. With the financial woes of several well known, top earning, athletes making major splashes in media headlines, the arrival of Allied Athlete Group answers a serious call within the athlete community.
It is no secret that professional athletes can make tremendous incomes; unfortunately most of them do not fully understand the leverage that is created during their career. This lack of knowledge creates opportunities for various "representatives" to take advantage of the athletes' leverage in a multitude of ways. This usury often results in the trusted representative making huge profits from the athletes and leaving them abruptly when their career comes to an end. AAG exists to help bridge this gap.
The Celebrity Factor! Did You Read IT!?
Celebrity?
In today's society the word celebrity can hold a different definition from person to person. According to dictionary.com- celebrity is defined as:
A noun meaning:
1. a widely known person; "he was a baseball celebrity"
2. the state or quality of being widely honored and acclaimed [syn: fame] [ant: infamy]
So do you think the your Presidential Candidate is a celebrity?
Take a look at the excerpt from a Yahoo.com news article on the Presidential Candidates being celebrities! Is it true? Do you agree? Tell us what you think!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By WALTER R. MEARS, AP Special Correspondent
Fri Aug 29, 6:07 AM ET
DENVER - OK, Barack Obama is a celebrity. Just like Sheryl Crow, Stevie Wonder and the other stars who shared the stadium spotlight with him Thursday night.
Republicans are trying to make fame a liability for the Democratic presidential nominee and they're having some success at it. But John McCain is a celebrity too.
It's a curious twist in this presidential campaign, given that nobody gets this close to the White House without being, or becoming, famous in the process. Actually, McCain got there first, the Vietnam POW who survived and won his way to the Senate in 1986.
But in the Republican script, he's renowned for what he's done while Obama's fame is empty, not earned. McCain spokesmen were on the case, taunting the Democrats for the setting and the spectacle as he delivered his acceptance address to a roaring crowd of some 84,000 people in Denver's pro football stadium.
John F. Kennedy delivered his "New Frontiers" acceptance speech to 80,000 people in the Los Angeles Coliseum in 1960, the other time a Democratic National Convention held its finale before a massive crowd in an outdoor stadium.
Obama said he wanted his that way to show that it is a ground-up effort, with room for average Americans, not only delegates in their hall. In his speech, Obama spoke of his soldier grandfather who studied on the GI Bill, his single mother, of unemployed Chicago workers he tried to help, of the grandmother who sacrificed so that he could have a better life. "I don't know what kind of lives John McCain thinks that celebrities lead, but this has been mine," he said. "These are my heroes."
For the complete article please go to the following link:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080829/ap_ca/celebrity_candidates
In today's society the word celebrity can hold a different definition from person to person. According to dictionary.com- celebrity is defined as:
A noun meaning:
1. a widely known person; "he was a baseball celebrity"
2. the state or quality of being widely honored and acclaimed [syn: fame] [ant: infamy]
So do you think the your Presidential Candidate is a celebrity?
Take a look at the excerpt from a Yahoo.com news article on the Presidential Candidates being celebrities! Is it true? Do you agree? Tell us what you think!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By WALTER R. MEARS, AP Special Correspondent
Fri Aug 29, 6:07 AM ET
DENVER - OK, Barack Obama is a celebrity. Just like Sheryl Crow, Stevie Wonder and the other stars who shared the stadium spotlight with him Thursday night.
Republicans are trying to make fame a liability for the Democratic presidential nominee and they're having some success at it. But John McCain is a celebrity too.
It's a curious twist in this presidential campaign, given that nobody gets this close to the White House without being, or becoming, famous in the process. Actually, McCain got there first, the Vietnam POW who survived and won his way to the Senate in 1986.
But in the Republican script, he's renowned for what he's done while Obama's fame is empty, not earned. McCain spokesmen were on the case, taunting the Democrats for the setting and the spectacle as he delivered his acceptance address to a roaring crowd of some 84,000 people in Denver's pro football stadium.
John F. Kennedy delivered his "New Frontiers" acceptance speech to 80,000 people in the Los Angeles Coliseum in 1960, the other time a Democratic National Convention held its finale before a massive crowd in an outdoor stadium.
Obama said he wanted his that way to show that it is a ground-up effort, with room for average Americans, not only delegates in their hall. In his speech, Obama spoke of his soldier grandfather who studied on the GI Bill, his single mother, of unemployed Chicago workers he tried to help, of the grandmother who sacrificed so that he could have a better life. "I don't know what kind of lives John McCain thinks that celebrities lead, but this has been mine," he said. "These are my heroes."
For the complete article please go to the following link:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080829/ap_ca/celebrity_candidates
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
BLUEPRINT 3!!! Jay-Z's Grand Finale on Def Jam
Jay-Z Announces Blueprint 3
We reported earlier that Jay-Z was speaking about the Blueprint 3! Well, here is a little update.
Jay-Z has announced he is working on his 11th and final Def Jam album, "The Blueprint 3."
The rapper made the announcement August 6, 2008 during a guest appearance on highly requested Kanye West’s Glow In The Dark tour in Madison Square Garden, New York.
During the set West asked the crowd if he could play them a few new beats he had recently recorded in Hawaii, including a track called "Jockin’ Jay-Z."
For all the questioned the opening lyrics of the song- here you go!
"That bloke from Oasis said I couldn’t play guitar
somebody shoulda told him I’m a BLEEP'n rock star.
Today is gonna be the day that I’m gonna throw it back to you," he rapped about Oasis’ Noel Gallagher, who recently slammed the organisers of the Glastonbury festival for booking Jay-Z as a headline act. Jay allows no one to question his talent!
"The Blueprint 3" is also set to feature another track produced by Kanye West entitled "Brooklyn."
We reported earlier that Jay-Z was speaking about the Blueprint 3! Well, here is a little update.
Jay-Z has announced he is working on his 11th and final Def Jam album, "The Blueprint 3."
The rapper made the announcement August 6, 2008 during a guest appearance on highly requested Kanye West’s Glow In The Dark tour in Madison Square Garden, New York.
During the set West asked the crowd if he could play them a few new beats he had recently recorded in Hawaii, including a track called "Jockin’ Jay-Z."
For all the questioned the opening lyrics of the song- here you go!
"That bloke from Oasis said I couldn’t play guitar
somebody shoulda told him I’m a BLEEP'n rock star.
Today is gonna be the day that I’m gonna throw it back to you," he rapped about Oasis’ Noel Gallagher, who recently slammed the organisers of the Glastonbury festival for booking Jay-Z as a headline act. Jay allows no one to question his talent!
"The Blueprint 3" is also set to feature another track produced by Kanye West entitled "Brooklyn."
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Jeezy Put ON for OBAMA!
Young Jeezy Put on The original video by Hype williams from trillali on Vimeo
If you fast forward to 3:15 of the video you will here how Jeezy exclaim Obama is his new mentor and why!
Video pulled from Straightfromthea.com
Michelle Obama! Your comments please!!!
We like to keep you in touch with the issues and people that play a key role in our government, entertainment, social life, and overall life itself!
With that said- just in case you missed it, check out Michelle Obama’s Democratic National Convention speech. History in the making! Is this woman top-notch or what!
And we would like to thank youtube.com for the video link.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
She is FABULOUS!!
Fabulosity Designed by Kimora Lee Simmons Launches Exclusively At JCPenney
Designer Kimora Lee Simmons Offers New Juniors Brand at No. 1 Department Store for Teens
PLANO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) and Kellwood Company today announced the launch of Fabulosity, a complete fashion sportswear line designed by Kimora Lee Simmons to be sold exclusively at JCPenney. The new collection, created for JCPenney’s Juniors customer, will debut in JCPenney stores and online at jcp.com in July, just in time for the Back-to-School season.
Inspired by the glamorous lifestyle of former runway model Kimora Lee Simmons, Fabulosity embodies a lifestyle of confidence, beauty and fashion sense, all at a smart price. Renowned for pioneering the introduction of glamour and feminine appeal to the urban brand category, Simmons has created a new line for JCPenney, which combines the two worlds she knows best -- high fashion and hip hop. Fabulosity will be merchandised at JCPenney as an urban lifestyle offering in Juniors with a complete sportswear line featuring tees, knit tops and sweaters, jeans, skirts and dresses, as well as hoodies, jackets and outerwear. The collection will be offered at JCPenney’s best pricing tier and will range from $29 to $108.
“As the No. 1 department store for teens, JCPenney has a proven track record of delivering a wide array of must-have styles and brands to some of our most discriminating customers: teen girls,” said Ken Hicks, president and chief merchandising officer for JCPenney. “We continue to build on this leadership with the launch of Fabulosity, which brings Kimora's popular charismatic personality and flair for fashion to our Juniors department, expanding our offering and deepening our emotional connection with our younger customers through a truly authentic brand."
“I can’t wait to bring Fabulosity to the JCPenney Juniors customer! Young teen girls are fabulous and my new collection will further build their confidence as they head back-to-school. Fabulosity is all about celebrating who you are and your individual greatness - living your dream and being whatever you want to be. This is a great message for young teens -- and I am so proud to partner with JCPenney on this collection,” commented Simmons.
Bob Skinner, Kellwood chairman, president and chief executive officer added, “Kimora touches the heart and soul of teens and young women around the world. Her positive influence and confident fashion bravado sends a message of self-reliance and fearlessness to teens. Kimora’s new Fabulosity collection is certain to engage the JCPenney Juniors customer, and we look forward to expanding our partnership with JCPenney on this new initiative.”
The Fabulosity sportswear collection is produced under a licensing agreement by BP Clothing, LLC.
About JCPenney
JCPenney is one of America's leading retailers, operating 1,074 department stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as one of the largest apparel and home furnishing sites on the Internet, jcp.com, and the nation's largest general merchandise catalog business. Through these integrated channels, JCPenney offers a wide array of national, private and exclusive brands which reflect the Company's commitment to providing customers with style and quality at a smart price. Traded as "JCP" on the New York Stock Exchange, the Company posted revenue of approximately $19.9 billion in 2007 and is executing its strategic plan to be the growth leader in the retail industry. Key to this strategy is JCPenney's "Every Day Matters" brand positioning, intended to generate deeper, more emotionally driven relationships with customers by fully engaging the Company's 155,000 Associates to offer encouragement, provide ideas and inspire customers every time they shop with JCPenney.
About Kimora Lee Simmons
Kimora Lee Simmons is president of Baby Phat and creative director of Phat Fashions’ Baby Phat, Phat Farm, and KLS Collection brands. Phat Fashions is a division of Kellwood Company. Over the years, Kimora has inspired a new generation of consumers with her glamorous, sexy, over-the-top style. Her influence in the world of fashion is undeniable while her savvy as a businesswoman has made this former runway model a worldwide brand phenomenon. Kimora is the only multiethnic woman to have a successful fashion and media branded empire. Quintessentially, she is the new establishment. As the instrumental force behind the brands’ creative designs, ad campaign strategies and marketing concepts, Kimora has taken her astute business acumen and passion for her work to spearhead numerous brand extension ventures with companies including Mattel, Motorola, Lancaster and Dan River which include dolls, bedding, home products, candles, fragrance and cosmetics.
About Kellwood Company
Kellwood is a $1.6 billion leading marketer of apparel and consumer soft goods. Specializing in branded products, the Company markets to all channels of distribution with products and brands tailored to each specific channel. Kellwood is an affiliated portfolio company of Sun Capital Partners, Inc. (“Sun Capital”), a leading private investment firm specializing in leveraged buyouts and investments in market-leading companies. For more information, visit www.kellwood.com.
Designer Kimora Lee Simmons Offers New Juniors Brand at No. 1 Department Store for Teens
PLANO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) and Kellwood Company today announced the launch of Fabulosity, a complete fashion sportswear line designed by Kimora Lee Simmons to be sold exclusively at JCPenney. The new collection, created for JCPenney’s Juniors customer, will debut in JCPenney stores and online at jcp.com in July, just in time for the Back-to-School season.
Inspired by the glamorous lifestyle of former runway model Kimora Lee Simmons, Fabulosity embodies a lifestyle of confidence, beauty and fashion sense, all at a smart price. Renowned for pioneering the introduction of glamour and feminine appeal to the urban brand category, Simmons has created a new line for JCPenney, which combines the two worlds she knows best -- high fashion and hip hop. Fabulosity will be merchandised at JCPenney as an urban lifestyle offering in Juniors with a complete sportswear line featuring tees, knit tops and sweaters, jeans, skirts and dresses, as well as hoodies, jackets and outerwear. The collection will be offered at JCPenney’s best pricing tier and will range from $29 to $108.
“As the No. 1 department store for teens, JCPenney has a proven track record of delivering a wide array of must-have styles and brands to some of our most discriminating customers: teen girls,” said Ken Hicks, president and chief merchandising officer for JCPenney. “We continue to build on this leadership with the launch of Fabulosity, which brings Kimora's popular charismatic personality and flair for fashion to our Juniors department, expanding our offering and deepening our emotional connection with our younger customers through a truly authentic brand."
“I can’t wait to bring Fabulosity to the JCPenney Juniors customer! Young teen girls are fabulous and my new collection will further build their confidence as they head back-to-school. Fabulosity is all about celebrating who you are and your individual greatness - living your dream and being whatever you want to be. This is a great message for young teens -- and I am so proud to partner with JCPenney on this collection,” commented Simmons.
Bob Skinner, Kellwood chairman, president and chief executive officer added, “Kimora touches the heart and soul of teens and young women around the world. Her positive influence and confident fashion bravado sends a message of self-reliance and fearlessness to teens. Kimora’s new Fabulosity collection is certain to engage the JCPenney Juniors customer, and we look forward to expanding our partnership with JCPenney on this new initiative.”
The Fabulosity sportswear collection is produced under a licensing agreement by BP Clothing, LLC.
About JCPenney
JCPenney is one of America's leading retailers, operating 1,074 department stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as one of the largest apparel and home furnishing sites on the Internet, jcp.com, and the nation's largest general merchandise catalog business. Through these integrated channels, JCPenney offers a wide array of national, private and exclusive brands which reflect the Company's commitment to providing customers with style and quality at a smart price. Traded as "JCP" on the New York Stock Exchange, the Company posted revenue of approximately $19.9 billion in 2007 and is executing its strategic plan to be the growth leader in the retail industry. Key to this strategy is JCPenney's "Every Day Matters" brand positioning, intended to generate deeper, more emotionally driven relationships with customers by fully engaging the Company's 155,000 Associates to offer encouragement, provide ideas and inspire customers every time they shop with JCPenney.
About Kimora Lee Simmons
Kimora Lee Simmons is president of Baby Phat and creative director of Phat Fashions’ Baby Phat, Phat Farm, and KLS Collection brands. Phat Fashions is a division of Kellwood Company. Over the years, Kimora has inspired a new generation of consumers with her glamorous, sexy, over-the-top style. Her influence in the world of fashion is undeniable while her savvy as a businesswoman has made this former runway model a worldwide brand phenomenon. Kimora is the only multiethnic woman to have a successful fashion and media branded empire. Quintessentially, she is the new establishment. As the instrumental force behind the brands’ creative designs, ad campaign strategies and marketing concepts, Kimora has taken her astute business acumen and passion for her work to spearhead numerous brand extension ventures with companies including Mattel, Motorola, Lancaster and Dan River which include dolls, bedding, home products, candles, fragrance and cosmetics.
About Kellwood Company
Kellwood is a $1.6 billion leading marketer of apparel and consumer soft goods. Specializing in branded products, the Company markets to all channels of distribution with products and brands tailored to each specific channel. Kellwood is an affiliated portfolio company of Sun Capital Partners, Inc. (“Sun Capital”), a leading private investment firm specializing in leveraged buyouts and investments in market-leading companies. For more information, visit www.kellwood.com.
Pleasure Principle Launches in Early 2009!
Janet’s latest lingerie line will be called Pleasure Principle and released in stores by the end of the year or early 2009. Co-designed with Australian lingerie designer Bruno Schiavi, they will come in a range of sizes: 32A to 44G.
The stores that will carry the line in the U.S. are yet to be revealed with plans for it to follow into European, Australian and Asian stores in the future.
There are also plans for Janet to expand into other clothing lines in the future.
Story pulled from The Cut
LL Cool J and Sears- Official Press Release
Statement From Irv Neger, Senior Vice President, Apparel, Sears
SEARS TO LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE APPAREL LINE BY LL COOL J
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., May 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Irv Neger, Senior Vice President, Sears Apparel, issued the following
statement:
As part of an ongoing commitment to increase our relevance in the
apparel industry, and bring fashions to our customers that are both
on-trend and affordable, Sears will be rolling out an exclusive LL Cool J
clothing collection in its fall assortment. The collaboration between LL
Cool J and Sears is the result of significant research on our part to
choose an aspirational label that can be accessible to all. Key
considerations in this selection included choosing a persona that had broad
demographic appeal, representing the true cross-section of the American
public that Sears embodies, and working with someone who would be committed
to making the good life attainable to our customers.
Not only is LL Cool J a pop culture phenomenon, his legitimacy and his
talent have stood the test of time. His career has spanned more than two
decades, culminating in 10 platinum albums, two Grammy awards and an NAACP
Image Award in recognition of his contributions. His staying power and his
wide appeal are evidenced in many upcoming endeavors that will include the
debut of his 13th album, a new television series, and film opportunities.
In essence, we wanted a brand that would resonate with an existing
customer who desired authentic streetwear, and LL Cool J wanted an American
icon retailer to which he could entrust his name and his vision.
Both LL Cool J and Sears have a history of being originators. As such,
LL Cool J's line will speak to that shared story as well as reflect his
artistry, his invention of an industry in addition to his longevity in
multimedia, and his commitment to his family. This synergy will bring
meaning to many facets of our marketing campaigns going forward as LL Cool
J becomes the face of a new, strengthened product portfolio at Sears. The
line will initially be carried in 450 stores with plans for increased
distribution by holiday. Clothing will first be offered in juniors', kids',
and young men's, with future plans for expansion to include accessories.
This rollout signals our belief in the offering as well as our recognition
of a need customers have to create an entire, authentic look. Apparel will
hit stores across the country during the second week of September.
LL Cool J issued the following comment:
"I see the LL Cool J brand bringing families closer together. It was a
priority for me to launch with a partner who connects with all of America
and Sears does it best. One of the happiest times I can remember was my
grandfather taking me to Sears every weekend when I was a child. I am
pleased to bring an authentic brand to Sears customers across the county
who represent those people and family members who influenced the person I
am today."
ABOUT SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings
Corporation (Nasdaq: SHLD), is a leading broadline retailer providing
merchandise and related services. Sears, Roebuck offers its wide range of
home merchandise, apparel and automotive products and services through more
than 2,400 Sears-branded and affiliated stores in the United States and
Canada, which includes approximately 926 full-line and 1,100 specialty
stores in the U.S. Sears, Roebuck also offers a variety of merchandise and
services through sears.com, landsend.com, and specialty catalogs. Sears,
Roebuck offers consumers leading proprietary brands including Kenmore,
Craftsman, DieHard and Lands' End -- among the most trusted and preferred
brands in the U.S. The company is the nation's largest provider of home
services, with more than 13 million service calls made annually. For more
information, visit the Sears, Roebuck website at http://www.sears.com or
the Sears Holdings Corporation website at http://www.searsholdings.com.
SOURCE Sears, Roebuck and Co.
Web site: http://www.sears.com
SEARS TO LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE APPAREL LINE BY LL COOL J
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., May 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Irv Neger, Senior Vice President, Sears Apparel, issued the following
statement:
As part of an ongoing commitment to increase our relevance in the
apparel industry, and bring fashions to our customers that are both
on-trend and affordable, Sears will be rolling out an exclusive LL Cool J
clothing collection in its fall assortment. The collaboration between LL
Cool J and Sears is the result of significant research on our part to
choose an aspirational label that can be accessible to all. Key
considerations in this selection included choosing a persona that had broad
demographic appeal, representing the true cross-section of the American
public that Sears embodies, and working with someone who would be committed
to making the good life attainable to our customers.
Not only is LL Cool J a pop culture phenomenon, his legitimacy and his
talent have stood the test of time. His career has spanned more than two
decades, culminating in 10 platinum albums, two Grammy awards and an NAACP
Image Award in recognition of his contributions. His staying power and his
wide appeal are evidenced in many upcoming endeavors that will include the
debut of his 13th album, a new television series, and film opportunities.
In essence, we wanted a brand that would resonate with an existing
customer who desired authentic streetwear, and LL Cool J wanted an American
icon retailer to which he could entrust his name and his vision.
Both LL Cool J and Sears have a history of being originators. As such,
LL Cool J's line will speak to that shared story as well as reflect his
artistry, his invention of an industry in addition to his longevity in
multimedia, and his commitment to his family. This synergy will bring
meaning to many facets of our marketing campaigns going forward as LL Cool
J becomes the face of a new, strengthened product portfolio at Sears. The
line will initially be carried in 450 stores with plans for increased
distribution by holiday. Clothing will first be offered in juniors', kids',
and young men's, with future plans for expansion to include accessories.
This rollout signals our belief in the offering as well as our recognition
of a need customers have to create an entire, authentic look. Apparel will
hit stores across the country during the second week of September.
LL Cool J issued the following comment:
"I see the LL Cool J brand bringing families closer together. It was a
priority for me to launch with a partner who connects with all of America
and Sears does it best. One of the happiest times I can remember was my
grandfather taking me to Sears every weekend when I was a child. I am
pleased to bring an authentic brand to Sears customers across the county
who represent those people and family members who influenced the person I
am today."
ABOUT SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings
Corporation (Nasdaq: SHLD), is a leading broadline retailer providing
merchandise and related services. Sears, Roebuck offers its wide range of
home merchandise, apparel and automotive products and services through more
than 2,400 Sears-branded and affiliated stores in the United States and
Canada, which includes approximately 926 full-line and 1,100 specialty
stores in the U.S. Sears, Roebuck also offers a variety of merchandise and
services through sears.com, landsend.com, and specialty catalogs. Sears,
Roebuck offers consumers leading proprietary brands including Kenmore,
Craftsman, DieHard and Lands' End -- among the most trusted and preferred
brands in the U.S. The company is the nation's largest provider of home
services, with more than 13 million service calls made annually. For more
information, visit the Sears, Roebuck website at http://www.sears.com or
the Sears Holdings Corporation website at http://www.searsholdings.com.
SOURCE Sears, Roebuck and Co.
Web site: http://www.sears.com
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
USHER and FOOTBALL!! ARE YOU READY?
Are you ready for football season? We know we are. But if your enthusiasm for the start of this year’s NFL season could use a little kick in the pants, check out the planned — and rumored — musical performances associated with the launch and conclusion of it.
The NFL has now confirmed that its 89th season will be ushered in by … well, none other than Usher.
The R&B star will perform during a special and (more importantly) free pregame event on September 4 at 3 p.m. in New York’s Columbus Circle. Country crooner Keith Urban will also take the stage, right before the defending Super Bowl champs, the New York Giants, face the Washington Redskins in this year’s season opener.
Article published by Chris Harris-Article pulled from MTV.com
The NFL has now confirmed that its 89th season will be ushered in by … well, none other than Usher.
The R&B star will perform during a special and (more importantly) free pregame event on September 4 at 3 p.m. in New York’s Columbus Circle. Country crooner Keith Urban will also take the stage, right before the defending Super Bowl champs, the New York Giants, face the Washington Redskins in this year’s season opener.
Article published by Chris Harris-Article pulled from MTV.com
Monday, August 18, 2008
STUFF THE BUS WITH THE CAROLINA PANTHERS!
Don't forget your homework...school supplies! The Carolina Panthers and Harris Teeter will hold their annual "Stuff the Bus" school supply collection before the team's game versus the Washington Redskins on Saturday, August 23 at 7:30 p.m. at Bank of America Stadium. Fans are encouraged to donate items that are in high demand to help equip underserved children for the new school year.
You are invited to share a memorable evening of gourmet food, fine wine and great entertainment at the inaugural Carolina Panthers Taste of the NFL!
You are invited to share a memorable evening of gourmet food, fine wine and great entertainment at the inaugural Carolina Panthers Taste of the NFL, presented by Harris Teeter, Kraft Foods and Frei Brothers Winery. The event will take place on Tuesday, November 11 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Bank of America Stadium.
Panthers fans and food connoisseurs will savor delicacies from top chefs, representing 15-20 of the best restaurants in North and South Carolina. Current and former Panthers players will be on hand to mingle with those in attendance. From 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., there will be a private VIP reception in Suite 87, where guests will enjoy an upgraded beverage selection, choose their restaurants before others arrive and take a tour of Bank of America Stadium.
The cost of the event is $150 per ticket or $250 per VIP ticket. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, which serves hungry children and families in the Charlotte region.
Those wishing to attend should complete the registration form and return it with a check made payable to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. If you cannot download the registration form, please send your registration fee along with your name, mailing address, phone number and e-mail address to: Taste of the NFL, 800 South Mint Street, Charlotte, NC, 28202. Upon receipt of registration and payment, participants will be mailed a confirmation letter and ticket(s).
The Taste of the NFL was born in 1992 at Super Bowl XXVI in Minneapolis as 28 of the finest chefs from around the country, one from each NFL city, served up their specialties alongside an alumni player from each of the NFL teams. Since then, the event has continued at each Super Bowl location and grown to several NFL cities. The mission of the Taste of the NFL is to address the needs of the hungry and homeless by raising awareness and money through special events and programs.
Panthers fans and food connoisseurs will savor delicacies from top chefs, representing 15-20 of the best restaurants in North and South Carolina. Current and former Panthers players will be on hand to mingle with those in attendance. From 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., there will be a private VIP reception in Suite 87, where guests will enjoy an upgraded beverage selection, choose their restaurants before others arrive and take a tour of Bank of America Stadium.
The cost of the event is $150 per ticket or $250 per VIP ticket. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, which serves hungry children and families in the Charlotte region.
Those wishing to attend should complete the registration form and return it with a check made payable to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. If you cannot download the registration form, please send your registration fee along with your name, mailing address, phone number and e-mail address to: Taste of the NFL, 800 South Mint Street, Charlotte, NC, 28202. Upon receipt of registration and payment, participants will be mailed a confirmation letter and ticket(s).
The Taste of the NFL was born in 1992 at Super Bowl XXVI in Minneapolis as 28 of the finest chefs from around the country, one from each NFL city, served up their specialties alongside an alumni player from each of the NFL teams. Since then, the event has continued at each Super Bowl location and grown to several NFL cities. The mission of the Taste of the NFL is to address the needs of the hungry and homeless by raising awareness and money through special events and programs.
12TH ANNUAL URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL
News Release Issued: August 18, 2008 10:00 AM EDT
Queen Latifah Announced as 2008 Honorary Chair of Urbanworld Film Festival
Presented by BET Networks
2008 Slate of Diverse Films Features Special Closing Night Screening of 'The
Secret Life Of Bees' Starring Queen Latifah, Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Hudson,
Alicia Keys and Sophie Okonedo
Festival Sponsors Include HBO, Time Warner Cable, Grey Goose, WNBC, Black
Enterprise, ESSENCE, VIBE, Power 105.1, the Directors Guild of America, AMC
Theatres, Fox Searchlight Pictures and the Weinstein Company
NEW YORK, Aug. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The Urbanworld Film Festival presented by
BET Networks, the largest international competitive festival of its kind,
today announced that Academy Award-nominated actress Queen Latifah will serve
as Honorary Chair of this year's festival. Dedicated to the exhibition of
independent and mainstream cinema by and about people of color, Urbanworld
also announced it will screen 85 films at this year's festival in New York
City from September 10-14. All festival screenings will be held at the AMC
Loews 34th Street Theaters.
This year's selection showcases New York-based films and filmmakers
celebrating local artists and communities, as well as a strong representation
of international filmmakers from around the world. The 2008 slate will
culminate in the special closing night screening of The Secret Life of Bees,
followed by a Q&A with talent from the film including Queen Latifah, Sophie
Okonedo ('Hotel Rwanda'), and screenwriter/director Gina Prince-Bythewood
('Love & Basketball').
"These are really exciting times for the festival," said Stacy Spikes,
founder of Urbanworld. "On display we have films of nearly every genre,
created by filmmakers of nearly every background. This robust selection of
cinema, together with our new partnership with BET Networks, promises to make
this the best Urbanworld yet."
"We're thrilled to have hip-hop's first lady Queen Latifah sign on as
honorary chair for this year's festivities," said Alvin Bowles, Senior Vice
President, Integrated Marketing, BET Networks. "The exciting lineup of
cinematic talent rounds out our mission to embrace and support the new wave
of filmmakers of color through our partnership with Urbanworld."
"I am thrilled to be the honorary chair of the Urbanworld Film Festival this
year," said Queen Latifah. "It is an important and exciting festival and the
perfect place to showcase my new film The Secret Life of Bees."
The five-day festival includes feature, documentary, and short film
screenings, as well as panel discussions, live staged screenplay readings and
the celebrated Actor's Spotlight, featuring Queen Latifah and to be aired on
BET, with previous honorees including Vondie Curtis Hall, Samuel L. Jackson,
Billy Dee Williams and Rosie Perez.
Urbanworld and BET Networks also announced this year's roster of marquee
sponsors. HBO returns for the 12th year as the founding sponsor of the
Urbanworld Film Festival. Time Warner Cable joins the festival as a Prestige
Sponsor. Grey Goose will serve as an Official Sponsor. Principal Sponsors
will include The Weinstein Company, WNBC, Black Enterprise, ESSENCE, VIBE,
and Power 105.1. The Directors Guild of America and AMC Theatres return as
Benefactor Sponsors. Sponsoring studios include Fox Searchlight and the
Weinstein Company. The Hilton Times Square will serve as the host hotel of
the festival, where registration and panels will take place.
Highlights and Notable Films of 2008 Urbanworld Film Festival Include:
The Secret Life Of Bees, the special closing night screening, written for the
screen and directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and stars Queen Latifah (the
Festival's Honorary Chair), Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys and
Sophie Okonedo. A touching story about the need for love, family and
redemption, THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES explores our undeniable desire for a
sense of belonging and the often daunting journeys that we must navigate to
achieve it. Set in South Carolina during the turbulent Civil Rights era, the
home of the intelligent and independent honey-making Boatwright sisters
(Latifah, Keys and Okonedo) is suddenly thrust into upheaval with the arrival
of fourteen year-old Lily Owens (Fanning) and her caretaker Rosaleen (Hudson).
Surrounded by the unexpected comforts, grace and deep rooted spirituality
Lily (Fanning) encounters in the Boatwright home, she forms a maternal bond
with each of these women whose unique and special gifts help reconcile the
loss of her mother. Lily ultimately comes to the realization that sometimes
you must leave home in order to find it. The film is scheduled for
nationwide release on October 17, 2008.
Wu: The Story Of The Wu Tang Clan, directed by Gerald Barclay, is a gritty
documentary that traces the history of the ever-popular Wu-Tang Clan. In the
summer of 1993, the Wu-Tang Clan emerged from the slums of Staten Island and
took the hip-hop world by storm. Their legacy spanned over a decade,
garnering fans worldwide and generating sales in excess of $50 million.
For more information about the 2008 Urbanworld Film Festival presented by BET
Networks, please visit or http://www.urbanworld.org/ or
http://www.bet.com/urbanworld.
ABOUT THE 2008 URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL:
Beginning this year, BET Networks has signed on for a three-year strategic
partnership to present the Urbanworld Film Festival. The unique partnership,
strengthened by BET's position as the leading media and entertainment
provider for African Americans and consumers of Black culture, will further
establish the festival as one of the world's largest competitive film
festivals designed to redefine and enhance the roles of multicultural
constituents in contemporary cinema.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a division of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA)(NYSE: VIA.B), is the
nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public
affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary
BET channel reaches more than 87 million households according to Nielsen Media
Research, and can be seen in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the
dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business
extensions: BET.com, a leading internet destination for Black entertainment,
music, culture, and news; BET Digital Networks - BET J, BET Gospel and BET
Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET
Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET
Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home
environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Mobile, which provides
ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET
International, an extension of BET network programming for global
distribution.
ABOUT URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL:
Urbanworld launched in August 1997 and was founded by former executive at
Miramax Stacy Spikes. Over the past eleven years, Urbanworld has presented
approximately 700 features, shorts and documentaries, with estimated
attendance reaching 15,000+. Now in its twelfth year, the Urbanworld Film
Festival is the largest internationally competitive festival of its kind.
Urbanworld re-defines the competitive film festival landscape with its fresh
and necessary approach to spreading the voices of a multicultural world. The
Urbanworld Film Festival is an initiative produced by the Urbanworld
Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to implementing programs and
events that support the development and success of the urban filmmaking
community. Stacy Spikes serves as chairman emeritus. Gabrielle Glore serves
as executive producer.
12TH ANNUAL URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL
2008 ROSTER
Closing Night Film: THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood
Spotlight Screenings Include:
WU: THE STORY OF THE WU-TANG CLAN directed by Gerald Barclay
TENNESSEE directed by Aaron Woodley
Narrative Features Include 16 Films:
BALL DON'T LIE directed by Brin Hill
BALLAST directed by Lance Hammer
CIGARETTES FOR BREAKFAST directed by Daniel Williams
I USED TO LOVE HER directed by Mark Harris
JAZZ IN THE DIAMOND DISTRICT directed by Lindsey Christian
PHANTOM PUNCH directed by Robert Townsend
SEAL TEAM VI directed by Mark Andrews
SECOND CHANCE directed by Iris Huey
SISTER'S KEEPER directed by Kent Faulcon
SOMETHING IS KILLING TATE directed by Leon Lozano
STREETBALLERS directed by Matt Krentz
THE HEART SPECIALIST directed by Dennis Cooper
THIS IS NOT A TEST directed by Christopher Angel
TRUTH HALL directed by Jade Dixon
UP WITH ME directed by Greg Takoudes
WHITE LIES BLACK SHEEP directed by James Spooner
Narrative Shorts Include 40 Films:
(MIS) LEADING MAN directed by Morocco Omari
3RD OF JULY directed by Ben Chace
A DAY'S WORK directed by Rajeev Dassani
A PRAYER directed by Louie P.
AFIA directed by Lacey Duke
AWILDA AND THE BEE directed by Lyndon McCray
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: THE MOVIE directed by Buttahman
CLASSIFIED directed by Sherman Payne
CRENSHAW NIGHTS directed by Pete D. Gelles
EXPECTATIONS OF A FATHER directed by Jerry E
HOLLYWOOD JEROME directed by Frey Hoffman
KUNG FU GRANNY directed by Myra Sito Velasquez
LARRY (THE ACTOR) directed by Eric Poydar
LIMPIANO SAPOS directed by Vero Shamo-Garcia
LINUS directed by Julius Onah
LO directed by Joe Kim
LOVE CONQUERS AL directed by Kamali Minter
NAPPY HEADS directed by Sabrina Moella
OVER DA RAINBOW directed by Jared Lapidus
PALM TREES DOWN 3RD STREET directed by Maria Judice
PAPICHULO directed by Marquis Smalls
PREMATURE directed by Rashaad Ernesto Green
SHY directed by April Rouveyrol
SIRI OKO FO directed by Heather Murphy
SOUTH CENTRAL DAZE directed by Marquise C.
THE DOLL directed by Dante James
THE PRINCE OF VENICE directed by Yaa Boaa Aning
THE SECOND COMING directed by Ya'ke Smith
THE SOUL SEARCHERS SERIES: GET THEE BEHIND ME directed by Jeffrey Wray
THE YOUNG AND EVIL directed by Julian Breece
UK SPOTLIGHT - BLANK SLATE SHORTS PROGRAM (8 FILMS)
URBAN GENESIS directed by Larry Bryant
VICTIM directed by Cesar Mazariegos
Documentary Features Include 19 Films:
ADJUST YOUR COLOR: THE TRUTH OF PETEY GREENE directed by Loren Mendell
ALL OF US directed by Emily Abt
ARUSI directed by Marjan Tehrani
BALLOU directed by Michael Patrei
BIGG SNOOP DOGG'S YOUTH AUTHORITY directed by Gabriel London
CALAVERA HIGHWAY directed by Renee Tajima-Pena
DIARY OF A TIRED BLACK MAN directed by Tim Alexander
FAMILIAR VOICES directed by Danny Mendoza
IN PRISON MY WHOLE LIFE directed by Marc Evans
LA AMERICANA directed by Nicholas Bruckman
MALCOLM'S ECHO: THE LEGACY OF MALCOLM X directed by Dami Akinnusi
NUMBER ONE WITH A BULLET directed by James Dziura
ONE BAD CAT directed by Thomas G. Miller
SLINGSHOT HIP-HOP directed by Jackie Salloum
SOMETHING OUT OF NOTHING directed by Robert Small
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WATER directed by Jeremy Robins
THE REAL GREAT DEBATERS directed by Brad Osborne
THIS IS THE LIFE directed by Ava DuVernay
TWO TURNTABLES AND A MICROPHONE directed by Guy Logan
Documentary Shorts Include 7 Films:
50 SHOTS directed by Rashaad Ernesto Green
EL PLAY directed by Pablo Medina
FRESH OF THE BOAT by Katrina Lucas
JUROR NUMBER SIX directed by Rachel Lyon
SEEN BUT NOT HEARD directed by Cyrille Phipps
THE 13TH AMENDMENT directed by Mike D.
URSULA RUCKER - POET directed by Michael J. Dennis
Queen Latifah Announced as 2008 Honorary Chair of Urbanworld Film Festival
Presented by BET Networks
2008 Slate of Diverse Films Features Special Closing Night Screening of 'The
Secret Life Of Bees' Starring Queen Latifah, Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Hudson,
Alicia Keys and Sophie Okonedo
Festival Sponsors Include HBO, Time Warner Cable, Grey Goose, WNBC, Black
Enterprise, ESSENCE, VIBE, Power 105.1, the Directors Guild of America, AMC
Theatres, Fox Searchlight Pictures and the Weinstein Company
NEW YORK, Aug. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The Urbanworld Film Festival presented by
BET Networks, the largest international competitive festival of its kind,
today announced that Academy Award-nominated actress Queen Latifah will serve
as Honorary Chair of this year's festival. Dedicated to the exhibition of
independent and mainstream cinema by and about people of color, Urbanworld
also announced it will screen 85 films at this year's festival in New York
City from September 10-14. All festival screenings will be held at the AMC
Loews 34th Street Theaters.
This year's selection showcases New York-based films and filmmakers
celebrating local artists and communities, as well as a strong representation
of international filmmakers from around the world. The 2008 slate will
culminate in the special closing night screening of The Secret Life of Bees,
followed by a Q&A with talent from the film including Queen Latifah, Sophie
Okonedo ('Hotel Rwanda'), and screenwriter/director Gina Prince-Bythewood
('Love & Basketball').
"These are really exciting times for the festival," said Stacy Spikes,
founder of Urbanworld. "On display we have films of nearly every genre,
created by filmmakers of nearly every background. This robust selection of
cinema, together with our new partnership with BET Networks, promises to make
this the best Urbanworld yet."
"We're thrilled to have hip-hop's first lady Queen Latifah sign on as
honorary chair for this year's festivities," said Alvin Bowles, Senior Vice
President, Integrated Marketing, BET Networks. "The exciting lineup of
cinematic talent rounds out our mission to embrace and support the new wave
of filmmakers of color through our partnership with Urbanworld."
"I am thrilled to be the honorary chair of the Urbanworld Film Festival this
year," said Queen Latifah. "It is an important and exciting festival and the
perfect place to showcase my new film The Secret Life of Bees."
The five-day festival includes feature, documentary, and short film
screenings, as well as panel discussions, live staged screenplay readings and
the celebrated Actor's Spotlight, featuring Queen Latifah and to be aired on
BET, with previous honorees including Vondie Curtis Hall, Samuel L. Jackson,
Billy Dee Williams and Rosie Perez.
Urbanworld and BET Networks also announced this year's roster of marquee
sponsors. HBO returns for the 12th year as the founding sponsor of the
Urbanworld Film Festival. Time Warner Cable joins the festival as a Prestige
Sponsor. Grey Goose will serve as an Official Sponsor. Principal Sponsors
will include The Weinstein Company, WNBC, Black Enterprise, ESSENCE, VIBE,
and Power 105.1. The Directors Guild of America and AMC Theatres return as
Benefactor Sponsors. Sponsoring studios include Fox Searchlight and the
Weinstein Company. The Hilton Times Square will serve as the host hotel of
the festival, where registration and panels will take place.
Highlights and Notable Films of 2008 Urbanworld Film Festival Include:
The Secret Life Of Bees, the special closing night screening, written for the
screen and directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and stars Queen Latifah (the
Festival's Honorary Chair), Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys and
Sophie Okonedo. A touching story about the need for love, family and
redemption, THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES explores our undeniable desire for a
sense of belonging and the often daunting journeys that we must navigate to
achieve it. Set in South Carolina during the turbulent Civil Rights era, the
home of the intelligent and independent honey-making Boatwright sisters
(Latifah, Keys and Okonedo) is suddenly thrust into upheaval with the arrival
of fourteen year-old Lily Owens (Fanning) and her caretaker Rosaleen (Hudson).
Surrounded by the unexpected comforts, grace and deep rooted spirituality
Lily (Fanning) encounters in the Boatwright home, she forms a maternal bond
with each of these women whose unique and special gifts help reconcile the
loss of her mother. Lily ultimately comes to the realization that sometimes
you must leave home in order to find it. The film is scheduled for
nationwide release on October 17, 2008.
Wu: The Story Of The Wu Tang Clan, directed by Gerald Barclay, is a gritty
documentary that traces the history of the ever-popular Wu-Tang Clan. In the
summer of 1993, the Wu-Tang Clan emerged from the slums of Staten Island and
took the hip-hop world by storm. Their legacy spanned over a decade,
garnering fans worldwide and generating sales in excess of $50 million.
For more information about the 2008 Urbanworld Film Festival presented by BET
Networks, please visit or http://www.urbanworld.org/ or
http://www.bet.com/urbanworld.
ABOUT THE 2008 URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL:
Beginning this year, BET Networks has signed on for a three-year strategic
partnership to present the Urbanworld Film Festival. The unique partnership,
strengthened by BET's position as the leading media and entertainment
provider for African Americans and consumers of Black culture, will further
establish the festival as one of the world's largest competitive film
festivals designed to redefine and enhance the roles of multicultural
constituents in contemporary cinema.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a division of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA)(NYSE: VIA.B), is the
nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public
affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary
BET channel reaches more than 87 million households according to Nielsen Media
Research, and can be seen in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the
dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business
extensions: BET.com, a leading internet destination for Black entertainment,
music, culture, and news; BET Digital Networks - BET J, BET Gospel and BET
Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET
Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET
Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home
environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Mobile, which provides
ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET
International, an extension of BET network programming for global
distribution.
ABOUT URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL:
Urbanworld launched in August 1997 and was founded by former executive at
Miramax Stacy Spikes. Over the past eleven years, Urbanworld has presented
approximately 700 features, shorts and documentaries, with estimated
attendance reaching 15,000+. Now in its twelfth year, the Urbanworld Film
Festival is the largest internationally competitive festival of its kind.
Urbanworld re-defines the competitive film festival landscape with its fresh
and necessary approach to spreading the voices of a multicultural world. The
Urbanworld Film Festival is an initiative produced by the Urbanworld
Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to implementing programs and
events that support the development and success of the urban filmmaking
community. Stacy Spikes serves as chairman emeritus. Gabrielle Glore serves
as executive producer.
12TH ANNUAL URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL
2008 ROSTER
Closing Night Film: THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood
Spotlight Screenings Include:
WU: THE STORY OF THE WU-TANG CLAN directed by Gerald Barclay
TENNESSEE directed by Aaron Woodley
Narrative Features Include 16 Films:
BALL DON'T LIE directed by Brin Hill
BALLAST directed by Lance Hammer
CIGARETTES FOR BREAKFAST directed by Daniel Williams
I USED TO LOVE HER directed by Mark Harris
JAZZ IN THE DIAMOND DISTRICT directed by Lindsey Christian
PHANTOM PUNCH directed by Robert Townsend
SEAL TEAM VI directed by Mark Andrews
SECOND CHANCE directed by Iris Huey
SISTER'S KEEPER directed by Kent Faulcon
SOMETHING IS KILLING TATE directed by Leon Lozano
STREETBALLERS directed by Matt Krentz
THE HEART SPECIALIST directed by Dennis Cooper
THIS IS NOT A TEST directed by Christopher Angel
TRUTH HALL directed by Jade Dixon
UP WITH ME directed by Greg Takoudes
WHITE LIES BLACK SHEEP directed by James Spooner
Narrative Shorts Include 40 Films:
(MIS) LEADING MAN directed by Morocco Omari
3RD OF JULY directed by Ben Chace
A DAY'S WORK directed by Rajeev Dassani
A PRAYER directed by Louie P.
AFIA directed by Lacey Duke
AWILDA AND THE BEE directed by Lyndon McCray
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: THE MOVIE directed by Buttahman
CLASSIFIED directed by Sherman Payne
CRENSHAW NIGHTS directed by Pete D. Gelles
EXPECTATIONS OF A FATHER directed by Jerry E
HOLLYWOOD JEROME directed by Frey Hoffman
KUNG FU GRANNY directed by Myra Sito Velasquez
LARRY (THE ACTOR) directed by Eric Poydar
LIMPIANO SAPOS directed by Vero Shamo-Garcia
LINUS directed by Julius Onah
LO directed by Joe Kim
LOVE CONQUERS AL directed by Kamali Minter
NAPPY HEADS directed by Sabrina Moella
OVER DA RAINBOW directed by Jared Lapidus
PALM TREES DOWN 3RD STREET directed by Maria Judice
PAPICHULO directed by Marquis Smalls
PREMATURE directed by Rashaad Ernesto Green
SHY directed by April Rouveyrol
SIRI OKO FO directed by Heather Murphy
SOUTH CENTRAL DAZE directed by Marquise C.
THE DOLL directed by Dante James
THE PRINCE OF VENICE directed by Yaa Boaa Aning
THE SECOND COMING directed by Ya'ke Smith
THE SOUL SEARCHERS SERIES: GET THEE BEHIND ME directed by Jeffrey Wray
THE YOUNG AND EVIL directed by Julian Breece
UK SPOTLIGHT - BLANK SLATE SHORTS PROGRAM (8 FILMS)
URBAN GENESIS directed by Larry Bryant
VICTIM directed by Cesar Mazariegos
Documentary Features Include 19 Films:
ADJUST YOUR COLOR: THE TRUTH OF PETEY GREENE directed by Loren Mendell
ALL OF US directed by Emily Abt
ARUSI directed by Marjan Tehrani
BALLOU directed by Michael Patrei
BIGG SNOOP DOGG'S YOUTH AUTHORITY directed by Gabriel London
CALAVERA HIGHWAY directed by Renee Tajima-Pena
DIARY OF A TIRED BLACK MAN directed by Tim Alexander
FAMILIAR VOICES directed by Danny Mendoza
IN PRISON MY WHOLE LIFE directed by Marc Evans
LA AMERICANA directed by Nicholas Bruckman
MALCOLM'S ECHO: THE LEGACY OF MALCOLM X directed by Dami Akinnusi
NUMBER ONE WITH A BULLET directed by James Dziura
ONE BAD CAT directed by Thomas G. Miller
SLINGSHOT HIP-HOP directed by Jackie Salloum
SOMETHING OUT OF NOTHING directed by Robert Small
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WATER directed by Jeremy Robins
THE REAL GREAT DEBATERS directed by Brad Osborne
THIS IS THE LIFE directed by Ava DuVernay
TWO TURNTABLES AND A MICROPHONE directed by Guy Logan
Documentary Shorts Include 7 Films:
50 SHOTS directed by Rashaad Ernesto Green
EL PLAY directed by Pablo Medina
FRESH OF THE BOAT by Katrina Lucas
JUROR NUMBER SIX directed by Rachel Lyon
SEEN BUT NOT HEARD directed by Cyrille Phipps
THE 13TH AMENDMENT directed by Mike D.
URSULA RUCKER - POET directed by Michael J. Dennis
Reverend Run's Words of Wisdom
Good morning. Will-power and desire, when properly combined, make an irresistible pair. Be persistent!! The majority of people are ready to throw their aims and purposes overboard , and give up at the first sign of opposition or misfortune. ONLY A FEW carry on despite all opposition or misfortune. (HERE'S MY QUESTION????) Are you one of those few????? JOIN THE FEW!!! PERSIST!!!
God is Love
Rev Run
God is Love
Rev Run
Jackie Chan- UNICEF AMBASSADOR SINCE 2004
Action star Jackie Chan has received a special UNICEF award for his work with children.
Chan was a guest at a UNICEF reception held in China on August 9, where awards were presented to UNICEF supporting partners and goodwill ambassadors who have aided the organization’s efforts to help children all over the world. The event – called Champions for Children – served two purposes: to advocate for vulnerable children and to thank all of UNICEF’s partners, including the Chinese government, for their tireless work.
---Story pulled from Look to the Stars.
Chan was a guest at a UNICEF reception held in China on August 9, where awards were presented to UNICEF supporting partners and goodwill ambassadors who have aided the organization’s efforts to help children all over the world. The event – called Champions for Children – served two purposes: to advocate for vulnerable children and to thank all of UNICEF’s partners, including the Chinese government, for their tireless work.
---Story pulled from Look to the Stars.
Andre Aggassi Charitable Foundation
Five For Fighting’s John Ondrasik will join James Taylor for a special VIP event to raise money for the Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation.
Andre Agassi’s 2008 Grand Slam for Children will take place on October 11 at Wynn Las Vegas and feature a concert by Grammy-award winning singer Sheryl Crow, with other performers to be announced soon. However, the gala will be preceded the previous night – October 10 – by a special show featuring Ondrasik and Taylor for Gold and Diamond sponsors.
The Grand Slam shows will follow the charity’s annual A Night In The Hamptons event on August 16 at Ross School. The evening will be hosted by Agassi and will include dinner, a live auction and a special performance by Matchbox 20’s Rob Thomas. Emcees for the evening will be Chevy Chase and Kelsey Grammar. The event is limited to 35 table sponsorships at $35,000 each, with 10 seats per table. Individual seats are also available at $3,500 each.
The Andre Agassi Foundation – which focuses on changing the lives of at-risk children through programs that provide educational and recreational opportunities and has raised over $70 million to support these programs in the last 14 years – hopes this will be a very intimate event where sponsors can hear directly from Andre Agassi how the Foundation is working to effect change in public education and at the same time, have a fantastic evening for a great cause.
Andre Agassi’s 2008 Grand Slam for Children will take place on October 11 at Wynn Las Vegas and feature a concert by Grammy-award winning singer Sheryl Crow, with other performers to be announced soon. However, the gala will be preceded the previous night – October 10 – by a special show featuring Ondrasik and Taylor for Gold and Diamond sponsors.
The Grand Slam shows will follow the charity’s annual A Night In The Hamptons event on August 16 at Ross School. The evening will be hosted by Agassi and will include dinner, a live auction and a special performance by Matchbox 20’s Rob Thomas. Emcees for the evening will be Chevy Chase and Kelsey Grammar. The event is limited to 35 table sponsorships at $35,000 each, with 10 seats per table. Individual seats are also available at $3,500 each.
The Andre Agassi Foundation – which focuses on changing the lives of at-risk children through programs that provide educational and recreational opportunities and has raised over $70 million to support these programs in the last 14 years – hopes this will be a very intimate event where sponsors can hear directly from Andre Agassi how the Foundation is working to effect change in public education and at the same time, have a fantastic evening for a great cause.
HOUSTON'S MADD HATTA HELPS 100 KIDS GET FLY FOR 1ST DAY BACK AT SCHOOL - TEAMS WITH JAMES POSEY'S BACK 2 SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND
HOUSTON'S MADD HATTA HELPS 100 KIDS GET FLY FOR 1ST DAY BACK AT SCHOOL - TEAMS WITH JAMES POSEY'S BACK 2 SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND
Fact: The percentage of black men who have not graduated from high school has quadrupled over the past 60 years.
Fact: 60% of the black males who drop out of school will end up behind bars
Fact: Black males in the their early 30's are twice as likely to have prison records as bachelor's degrees
Fact: Only 3 out of 10 black males entering kindergarten will graduate from college
Houston, TX - Most of you will recall the night before the first day of school; laying out your new outfit and imagining all the compliments you would get when you saw all of your friends that day. While sitting in church a few Sundays ago, 97.9 The Box morning show host, Madd Hatta, heard his pastor tell his congregation that "children who did not have a new outfit on the first day of school, and were therefore not dressed for success, were far less likely to have a successful school year." That statement stuck in his head, along with the above statistics and he decided he wanted do something to help. Hatta called his good friends at local shopping mecca Suitmart and thus, Hatta's 100 was born.
Young males in Houston from grades 6 - 8 were encouraged to submit a 100 word essay on how they planned to 'keep it 100' in school and the winning 100 kids will be taken to Suitmart this coming Wednesday, August 20th where Hatta will buy them each a new outfit for their first day back in school. Additionally, upon hearing Hatta speak on the air about what he was doing for the kids, former Celtic, James Posey, who was already doing a back to school event as part of his Back 2 School Championship Weekend, invited Hatta's 100 to participate. Posey and 15 of his All Star buddies will be on hand at Grooves restaurant from 12PM - 3PM Saturday, August 23rd to meet with 500 kids, Hatta's 100 included, where they will receive not only some All Star Inspiration, but a backpack filled with school supplies.
"I heard what Hatta was trying to do for the kids and it occurred to me that kids who could not afford new clothes for the start of school were probably struggling with school supplies as well. I already had an event I was doing for 400 kids so we just added Hatta's 100 to that event." James Posey says.
"Often in life it's the small things that make a difference and it's up to each of us to find a way to be the catalyst for change. Because life is always about choices, I made the choice to help 100 male students from the 6th, 7th and 8th grades start their school year off the right way......dressed for success." Hatta states, and adds......"I would like to thank both my friends at Suitmart, and James Posey for seeing my vision and helping me to make these things possible."
Fact: The percentage of black men who have not graduated from high school has quadrupled over the past 60 years.
Fact: 60% of the black males who drop out of school will end up behind bars
Fact: Black males in the their early 30's are twice as likely to have prison records as bachelor's degrees
Fact: Only 3 out of 10 black males entering kindergarten will graduate from college
Houston, TX - Most of you will recall the night before the first day of school; laying out your new outfit and imagining all the compliments you would get when you saw all of your friends that day. While sitting in church a few Sundays ago, 97.9 The Box morning show host, Madd Hatta, heard his pastor tell his congregation that "children who did not have a new outfit on the first day of school, and were therefore not dressed for success, were far less likely to have a successful school year." That statement stuck in his head, along with the above statistics and he decided he wanted do something to help. Hatta called his good friends at local shopping mecca Suitmart and thus, Hatta's 100 was born.
Young males in Houston from grades 6 - 8 were encouraged to submit a 100 word essay on how they planned to 'keep it 100' in school and the winning 100 kids will be taken to Suitmart this coming Wednesday, August 20th where Hatta will buy them each a new outfit for their first day back in school. Additionally, upon hearing Hatta speak on the air about what he was doing for the kids, former Celtic, James Posey, who was already doing a back to school event as part of his Back 2 School Championship Weekend, invited Hatta's 100 to participate. Posey and 15 of his All Star buddies will be on hand at Grooves restaurant from 12PM - 3PM Saturday, August 23rd to meet with 500 kids, Hatta's 100 included, where they will receive not only some All Star Inspiration, but a backpack filled with school supplies.
"I heard what Hatta was trying to do for the kids and it occurred to me that kids who could not afford new clothes for the start of school were probably struggling with school supplies as well. I already had an event I was doing for 400 kids so we just added Hatta's 100 to that event." James Posey says.
"Often in life it's the small things that make a difference and it's up to each of us to find a way to be the catalyst for change. Because life is always about choices, I made the choice to help 100 male students from the 6th, 7th and 8th grades start their school year off the right way......dressed for success." Hatta states, and adds......"I would like to thank both my friends at Suitmart, and James Posey for seeing my vision and helping me to make these things possible."
P. Miller Makes History!
Better Black Television (BBTV) Set to Launch Worldwide in 2009
P. Miller Makes History as the First Hip-Hop Entrepreneur to Own a Television Network, Is the Youngest Chairman in the Game, and Takes His Fast-Paced, Growing Brand to Wall Street
LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwire - August 15, 2008) - Percy Miller (formerly Master P) announces the launch of Better Black Television (BBTV) a family friendly network that will provide positive content for a black and brown culture that will appeal to all races with a goal to bring people of color a choice when turning on their television. The content on the channel will contain a wide arrangement from health and fitness, animation, financial planning, reality TV, sitcoms, dramas, movies, responsible hip-hop music and videos, politics, sports and entertainment news, educational children's shows as well as teen and family programming. Production has begun and will be based out of California, New York, Louisiana and Florida. In addition, BBTV is in the process of purchasing local cable channel affiliates across the country.
Born in Hollywood, Better Black Television is the brainchild and passion of some of the most diverse, powerful, celebrated entertainers, influentials and trendsetters from the Television, Film, Professional Sports, Corporate America and Music industries. These visionaries all share the common goal of enhancing the current television landscape for this highly coveted demographic currently monopolized by only a few significant providers, with fresh, innovative, uplifting and above all family-friendly entertainment. Envisioned and headed by its Founder, P. Miller, a legendary music, film, and television entertainer as well as world-renowned African-American entrepreneur and social activist, Better Black Television is guided, staffed and supported by a highly skilled, talented, and above all dedicated team of professionals that have been working for more than 5 years to make this dream a reality.
"Better Black Television has been a vision of mine for some years," said Miller, BBTV's Chairman & CEO. "I've done a lot to promote and change the way messages are relayed to our children and our families over the last few years. Promoting positive content and positive messages is so important to educate and preserve the next generation. Being exposed to positive content is what changed my life. I believe that there is a market in our community for a new diverse network that provides a new brand of superior programming that caters to all aspects of television from reality to original programming. In addition, I'm excited to be able to expose the urban community to a vast array of jobs in the entertainment community that they might not otherwise be privy to. I have a great relationship with BET and MTV and my son and I will continue to do work with them and support their networks. With BBTV, we're spearheading the initiative to meet consumer demand for family friendly hip-hop content."
The BBTV Advisory Board members consist of some of the most significant entertainers in Hollywood, professional athletes as well as movers and shakers in the community such as Academy Award and Golden Globe winner Denzel Washington; businessman and Academy Award nominee Will Smith; Vault Load Films President, entrepreneur and senior level business executive, Jim Finkl; NAACP Executive Director Vicangelo Bullock; Professional basketball player and businessman Derek Anderson (Charlotte Bobcats); an award winning, 20-year veteran of the cable television and film industry, Professor Sal Martino; businessman, community activist and founding father of hip-hop, DJ Kool Herc; entrepreneur, businessman and animation specialist, Olatokunbo Betiku; and community activist, Board President of Nailah House Foster Family Agency, speaker and teacher at Trump University, real estate mogul Curtis Oakes.
Preliminary List of Better Black Television Programming:
-- Sunset and Vine -- Hosted by Vyshonn Miller and Brittany
Phillips -- This video show will showcase the top 8 at 8pm, the top
hip-hop and R&B acts as well as play classic videos and will feature
a section where you can vote on new indie unsigned artists who will
showcase their talent and the audience will have the option to place
them in the "You Pick It Video" section by voting for them online.
-- One Shot Comedy Show -- will consist of clean hilarious comedy and
will be hosted by Gary Johnson (a.k.a. G-Thing) and some of the
funniest comedians around. It will give upcoming comedians the
opportunity to hit the stage.
-- Gee Gee the Giraffe -- Children's educational show featuring Gee Gee
the Giraffe, a magical friend that takes kids on educational
adventures focused on reading and writing. (Will air on BBTV Kids
Saturday Morning Show).
-- Manage Your Money -- Featuring financially successful people lending
information to viewers to help promote financial literacy.
-- Close to the Starz -- A behind the scenes show that takes the viewers
up close and personal to their favorite celebrities.
-- Karma TV Show -- Bilingual soap opera with an African-American and
Latino cast.
-- What's Cooking TV Show -- Talk show that covers wide aspects of
entertainment and current events while cooking and enjoying a good
meal. The host and guests prepare healthy, budget-conscious meals.
-- The Black List Movies -- Family friendly content featuring or created
by top filmmakers and actors. From the classics of the past to the
biggest stars of today, from original BBTV productions to quality
independents, you'll find them on "The Black List."
-- Hip-Hop Garage Show -- Saturday show that will play nothing but the
hottest new and upcoming artists in their latest music videos and
interviews selected with content appropriate to BBTV's mission and
standards.
"We're extremely proud of our programming that will be airing on BBTV," said Miller. "It's extremely important to feed clean, quality, and positive subject matter to our families. We believe TV content can be positive and responsible and still have good ratings with great content. BBTV will offer all kinds of family friendly entertainment that everyone can enjoy. Our mission is to target the new generation of responsible African-American and multi-ethnic English speaking American and family oriented and responsible hip-hop consumers who are taking charge of their families and striving for a better tomorrow.
"I remember Bob Johnson, founder of BET, telling me back in the day that if you wanted to know real estate, you've got to hang out with real estate investors. If you wanted to know sports, you've got to hang out with athletes. I wanted to know TV, so I hung out with Bob and learned the TV game from one of the best in the business."
Better Black Television Mission Statement:
Better Black Television (BBTV) is committed to being a leading African-American multimedia entertainment company by establishing a distinct, valued, trusted, and socially responsible consumer brand within the African-American and multi-ethnic, English-speaking marketplace. We plan to accomplish this mission by delivering quality, family oriented entertainment and information to the quickly growing urban consumer base of our target audience through the use of television and Internet resources.
www.BETTERBLACKTV.com
P. Miller Makes History as the First Hip-Hop Entrepreneur to Own a Television Network, Is the Youngest Chairman in the Game, and Takes His Fast-Paced, Growing Brand to Wall Street
LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwire - August 15, 2008) - Percy Miller (formerly Master P) announces the launch of Better Black Television (BBTV) a family friendly network that will provide positive content for a black and brown culture that will appeal to all races with a goal to bring people of color a choice when turning on their television. The content on the channel will contain a wide arrangement from health and fitness, animation, financial planning, reality TV, sitcoms, dramas, movies, responsible hip-hop music and videos, politics, sports and entertainment news, educational children's shows as well as teen and family programming. Production has begun and will be based out of California, New York, Louisiana and Florida. In addition, BBTV is in the process of purchasing local cable channel affiliates across the country.
Born in Hollywood, Better Black Television is the brainchild and passion of some of the most diverse, powerful, celebrated entertainers, influentials and trendsetters from the Television, Film, Professional Sports, Corporate America and Music industries. These visionaries all share the common goal of enhancing the current television landscape for this highly coveted demographic currently monopolized by only a few significant providers, with fresh, innovative, uplifting and above all family-friendly entertainment. Envisioned and headed by its Founder, P. Miller, a legendary music, film, and television entertainer as well as world-renowned African-American entrepreneur and social activist, Better Black Television is guided, staffed and supported by a highly skilled, talented, and above all dedicated team of professionals that have been working for more than 5 years to make this dream a reality.
"Better Black Television has been a vision of mine for some years," said Miller, BBTV's Chairman & CEO. "I've done a lot to promote and change the way messages are relayed to our children and our families over the last few years. Promoting positive content and positive messages is so important to educate and preserve the next generation. Being exposed to positive content is what changed my life. I believe that there is a market in our community for a new diverse network that provides a new brand of superior programming that caters to all aspects of television from reality to original programming. In addition, I'm excited to be able to expose the urban community to a vast array of jobs in the entertainment community that they might not otherwise be privy to. I have a great relationship with BET and MTV and my son and I will continue to do work with them and support their networks. With BBTV, we're spearheading the initiative to meet consumer demand for family friendly hip-hop content."
The BBTV Advisory Board members consist of some of the most significant entertainers in Hollywood, professional athletes as well as movers and shakers in the community such as Academy Award and Golden Globe winner Denzel Washington; businessman and Academy Award nominee Will Smith; Vault Load Films President, entrepreneur and senior level business executive, Jim Finkl; NAACP Executive Director Vicangelo Bullock; Professional basketball player and businessman Derek Anderson (Charlotte Bobcats); an award winning, 20-year veteran of the cable television and film industry, Professor Sal Martino; businessman, community activist and founding father of hip-hop, DJ Kool Herc; entrepreneur, businessman and animation specialist, Olatokunbo Betiku; and community activist, Board President of Nailah House Foster Family Agency, speaker and teacher at Trump University, real estate mogul Curtis Oakes.
Preliminary List of Better Black Television Programming:
-- Sunset and Vine -- Hosted by Vyshonn Miller and Brittany
Phillips -- This video show will showcase the top 8 at 8pm, the top
hip-hop and R&B acts as well as play classic videos and will feature
a section where you can vote on new indie unsigned artists who will
showcase their talent and the audience will have the option to place
them in the "You Pick It Video" section by voting for them online.
-- One Shot Comedy Show -- will consist of clean hilarious comedy and
will be hosted by Gary Johnson (a.k.a. G-Thing) and some of the
funniest comedians around. It will give upcoming comedians the
opportunity to hit the stage.
-- Gee Gee the Giraffe -- Children's educational show featuring Gee Gee
the Giraffe, a magical friend that takes kids on educational
adventures focused on reading and writing. (Will air on BBTV Kids
Saturday Morning Show).
-- Manage Your Money -- Featuring financially successful people lending
information to viewers to help promote financial literacy.
-- Close to the Starz -- A behind the scenes show that takes the viewers
up close and personal to their favorite celebrities.
-- Karma TV Show -- Bilingual soap opera with an African-American and
Latino cast.
-- What's Cooking TV Show -- Talk show that covers wide aspects of
entertainment and current events while cooking and enjoying a good
meal. The host and guests prepare healthy, budget-conscious meals.
-- The Black List Movies -- Family friendly content featuring or created
by top filmmakers and actors. From the classics of the past to the
biggest stars of today, from original BBTV productions to quality
independents, you'll find them on "The Black List."
-- Hip-Hop Garage Show -- Saturday show that will play nothing but the
hottest new and upcoming artists in their latest music videos and
interviews selected with content appropriate to BBTV's mission and
standards.
"We're extremely proud of our programming that will be airing on BBTV," said Miller. "It's extremely important to feed clean, quality, and positive subject matter to our families. We believe TV content can be positive and responsible and still have good ratings with great content. BBTV will offer all kinds of family friendly entertainment that everyone can enjoy. Our mission is to target the new generation of responsible African-American and multi-ethnic English speaking American and family oriented and responsible hip-hop consumers who are taking charge of their families and striving for a better tomorrow.
"I remember Bob Johnson, founder of BET, telling me back in the day that if you wanted to know real estate, you've got to hang out with real estate investors. If you wanted to know sports, you've got to hang out with athletes. I wanted to know TV, so I hung out with Bob and learned the TV game from one of the best in the business."
Better Black Television Mission Statement:
Better Black Television (BBTV) is committed to being a leading African-American multimedia entertainment company by establishing a distinct, valued, trusted, and socially responsible consumer brand within the African-American and multi-ethnic, English-speaking marketplace. We plan to accomplish this mission by delivering quality, family oriented entertainment and information to the quickly growing urban consumer base of our target audience through the use of television and Internet resources.
www.BETTERBLACKTV.com
NIKE+ HUMAN RACE! KANYE PERFORMING!!
Kanye West Announced As Grand Finale Performance For The Nike+ Human Race - The World's Largest One Day Running Event
Moby Confirmed To Play London as Online Registration Opens Globally
Music takes center stage on the heels of the official registration opening for the Nike+ Human Race, the world's biggest one-day running event taking place on August 31, 2008. The race brings together the power of sport and music to inspire and connect runners from every corner of the planet. Participants in this unprecedented event will experience an exclusive music performance by some of today's top artists in each of the 25 designated race cities.
In Los Angeles, nine-time Grammy Award winning artist Kanye West will headline the run's post race concert for the grand finale of the 25-city Nike+ Human Race. Runners will take to the streets passing the city's most famous landmarks before ending at the LA Coliseum to see West take the stage.
"I'm hitting the stage in Los Angeles for the Nike+ Human Race, Nike's dopest 10k run ever. This race is bringing together hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world to run and listen to some great music while serving a higher cause, and I'm excited to perform in L.A. as part of the grand finale."
West's performance will bring to a close, an unprecedented day of races and activities around the globe starting in Taipei , ending in LA and including cities across Europe, Asia and North and South America.
In London, runners will be treated to an exclusive performance by world-renowned American DJ, songwriter, musician and singer Moby in the city's famed Wembley Stadium. Other all-star artists confirmed to play at the Nike+ Human Race include chart-topping rock band All-American Rejects in NY; hometown favorite Fall Out Boy in Chicago; R&B songstress Kelly Rowland in Paris; dance-electro-pop duo The Pinker Tones in Madrid, Turkish pop sensation Kenan Dogulu in Istanbul; the Fantastic Four in Munich; Beijing-based singing duo Yu Quan in Shanghai and American rock band Boy Likes Girl in Singapore.
Beyond running and music, the Nike+ Human Race is also an opportunity to give back. Participants will be able to run for a worthy cause and support the three official Nike+ Human Race charitable partners: the Lance Armstrong Foundation – uniting people in the fight against cancer; WWF - the global conservation organization addressing the causes and impacts of climate change; and the UN refugee agency's ninemillion.org campaign – bringing sport and education to refugee youth. Together, Nike and runners will raise funds to donate at least USD $3 million to the Nike+ Human Race charities. Money will be raised via givebacks from registration fees, a percentage of Nike+ Human Race t-shirt sales and a donation of USD $1 million from Nike.
The Nike+ Human Race will also feature an online pledge tool so individual runners can donate additional funds to the cause of their choice and invite friends and family to contribute on their behalf.
"As a committed runner and a cancer survivor, I'm proud to be participating in the Nike+ Human Race," Lance Armstrong said. "The race offers the best of both worlds by bringing together a global community to run together and support worthy causes like the Lance Armstrong Foundation, the UN refugee agency's ninemillion.org and WWF in our combined efforts to have a positive impact on the world."
Other Nike athletes will also be joining the movement to run with the world and for a cause. Like Lance Armstrong, they will serve as honorary athlete ambassadors for the charities and join in Human Race activities. Six-time marathon winner and current NY Marathon Champion, Paula Radcliffe and middle distance runner Kara Goucher will be running to support WWF, while marathoner Meb Keflezighi will be representing ninemillion.org.
Nikeplus.com will be the official destination for the Nike+ Human Race and for all pre-race training needs. Here, runners can create a personal profile page or stay motivated by sampling and downloading the latest in Nike+ Sport Music offerings. Sport Music offers runners the best in original Training Run and Coaching Mixes designed specifically for treadmill and road runs. Beginning June 15, runners will also be able to visit Race City pages covering local race info and news, Training pages for information and links to in-city training runs, events with official race partners including 24Hour Fitness and Starbucks and Nike+ Coach training. Gear pages covering the latest in Nike performance training gear and Nike+ product will also be offered.
For more information on the Nike+ Human Race and a complete listing of race cities visit nikeplus.com.
Moby Confirmed To Play London as Online Registration Opens Globally
Music takes center stage on the heels of the official registration opening for the Nike+ Human Race, the world's biggest one-day running event taking place on August 31, 2008. The race brings together the power of sport and music to inspire and connect runners from every corner of the planet. Participants in this unprecedented event will experience an exclusive music performance by some of today's top artists in each of the 25 designated race cities.
In Los Angeles, nine-time Grammy Award winning artist Kanye West will headline the run's post race concert for the grand finale of the 25-city Nike+ Human Race. Runners will take to the streets passing the city's most famous landmarks before ending at the LA Coliseum to see West take the stage.
"I'm hitting the stage in Los Angeles for the Nike+ Human Race, Nike's dopest 10k run ever. This race is bringing together hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world to run and listen to some great music while serving a higher cause, and I'm excited to perform in L.A. as part of the grand finale."
West's performance will bring to a close, an unprecedented day of races and activities around the globe starting in Taipei , ending in LA and including cities across Europe, Asia and North and South America.
In London, runners will be treated to an exclusive performance by world-renowned American DJ, songwriter, musician and singer Moby in the city's famed Wembley Stadium. Other all-star artists confirmed to play at the Nike+ Human Race include chart-topping rock band All-American Rejects in NY; hometown favorite Fall Out Boy in Chicago; R&B songstress Kelly Rowland in Paris; dance-electro-pop duo The Pinker Tones in Madrid, Turkish pop sensation Kenan Dogulu in Istanbul; the Fantastic Four in Munich; Beijing-based singing duo Yu Quan in Shanghai and American rock band Boy Likes Girl in Singapore.
Beyond running and music, the Nike+ Human Race is also an opportunity to give back. Participants will be able to run for a worthy cause and support the three official Nike+ Human Race charitable partners: the Lance Armstrong Foundation – uniting people in the fight against cancer; WWF - the global conservation organization addressing the causes and impacts of climate change; and the UN refugee agency's ninemillion.org campaign – bringing sport and education to refugee youth. Together, Nike and runners will raise funds to donate at least USD $3 million to the Nike+ Human Race charities. Money will be raised via givebacks from registration fees, a percentage of Nike+ Human Race t-shirt sales and a donation of USD $1 million from Nike.
The Nike+ Human Race will also feature an online pledge tool so individual runners can donate additional funds to the cause of their choice and invite friends and family to contribute on their behalf.
"As a committed runner and a cancer survivor, I'm proud to be participating in the Nike+ Human Race," Lance Armstrong said. "The race offers the best of both worlds by bringing together a global community to run together and support worthy causes like the Lance Armstrong Foundation, the UN refugee agency's ninemillion.org and WWF in our combined efforts to have a positive impact on the world."
Other Nike athletes will also be joining the movement to run with the world and for a cause. Like Lance Armstrong, they will serve as honorary athlete ambassadors for the charities and join in Human Race activities. Six-time marathon winner and current NY Marathon Champion, Paula Radcliffe and middle distance runner Kara Goucher will be running to support WWF, while marathoner Meb Keflezighi will be representing ninemillion.org.
Nikeplus.com will be the official destination for the Nike+ Human Race and for all pre-race training needs. Here, runners can create a personal profile page or stay motivated by sampling and downloading the latest in Nike+ Sport Music offerings. Sport Music offers runners the best in original Training Run and Coaching Mixes designed specifically for treadmill and road runs. Beginning June 15, runners will also be able to visit Race City pages covering local race info and news, Training pages for information and links to in-city training runs, events with official race partners including 24Hour Fitness and Starbucks and Nike+ Coach training. Gear pages covering the latest in Nike performance training gear and Nike+ product will also be offered.
For more information on the Nike+ Human Race and a complete listing of race cities visit nikeplus.com.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Feature Foundation: TJ DUCKETT's Foundation
Welcome to the TD Foundation
TJ Duckett has established a foundation to positively impact youth and families who have lost loved ones to cancer with providing assistance to those who are currently living with cancer. As a son of a cancer victim, TJ knows first-hand the challenges families face when treatment becomes necessary as employment. The TD Foundation wants to help patients focus on living with cancer instead of dying from it-- to turn cancer patients into cancer survivors.
As a member of the Detroit Lions , all players are encouraged to get involved in charitable organizations and to give back to the community. TJ has taken it one step further by establishing the TD Foundation. For many years TJ has actively supported cancer research and awareness projects but now he wants to personally provide resources and assistance that he feels would have made a significant difference to his family while they were struggling to live with his mother’s illness.
The American Cancer Society estimates in 2007 that there will be over 1.5 million new cases of cancer diagnosed and that 559,650 people are expected to die of cancer, more than 1500 a day. Cancer has a lasting impression on patients, friends and loved ones. Some have just been diagnosed or are going through treatment, while others no longer have active symptoms of cancer or are considered cured. Today, cure rates continue to improve as new medicines and treatments are discovered. Join Team Duckett as we strive to assist organizations in the fight to cure cancer.
‘Maddenpalooza’ Rocks Rose Bowl
For thousands of gaming enthusiasts, the big day had finally arrived. On Monday, avid players of the hit video game Madden NFL 09 swarmed into the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif. to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the most popular video gaming franchise in sports history.
But hard-core fans weren’t the only ones there.
“I used to be good at Madden back when you only needed three buttons to play,” retired NFL star Warren Sapp said.
While Sapp’s best Madden playing days may be behind him, the future is bright for EA Sports and its signature game. The launch of Madden, themed “Maddenpalooza,” gave fans the opportunity of a lifetime at this gaming and music-based festival/event—a first look at the highly anticipated Madden NFL 09.
The strong relationship between Electronic Arts and NFL PLAYERS, the marketing and licensing subsidiary of the NFLPA, was on display Monday as “Maddenpalooza” featured more than a dozen former NFL superstars including Marshall Faulk, Eric Dickerson, Warren Moon and Eddie George, the first Madden cover athlete. This unique interaction allowed fans to experience the launch of the franchise’s 20th iteration in grand style.
Peter Moore, President of EA Sports, said, “The launch of Madden NFL 09 is of a magnitude that only the Rose Bowl can accommodate.”
The fan-fest atmosphere offered a player autograph stage, more than 300 gaming kiosks, football long-toss competitions and free beverage tents. Kicking off the day, fans were treated to musical performances by Rev Theory and Airborne, two bands whose music has been featured on the game’s soundtracks.
“To have an event at an historical place like the Rose Bowl and to go outside and see the huge tarp of artwork draping the whole stadium is incredible. Madden has become synonymous with the NFL,” said ex-Chicago Bears wide receiver Willie Gault.
Fans flocked to the Rose Bowl, grabbing their place in long lines as early as 3 a.m. on Aug. 11, in order to guarantee themselves a chance to play and buy the first available copies of the game. One of those loyal fans, Pasadena resident Jonathan Martinez, could hardly contain his excitement.
“I came out today just to get Madden NFL 09,” he said. “I’ve been playing since 1989 and I’m really hoping to play against some former NFL players. I couldn’t miss this.”
Faulk, the cover athlete for the 2003 version of Madden, put into perspective the impact of the game on its fans. “They love this game, they want this game, they do everything for this game. If you drop this game on the field, and just gave one out to everyone, it would cause a riot,” Faulk said.
The pre-launch buildup ended with a bang as Good Charlotte and Busta Rhymes amped up the crowd just hours before the sale of the first game. In an adjacent Wal-Mart store made specifically for the event, the first fans to purchase a copy—Jessica Didway and Fernando Aragno from Hacienda Heights, Calif.—were showered in confetti and presented the first sale by former San Francisco 49ers great Roger Craig.
With millions of pre-ordered copies for this year’s game, the first 20 years of the Madden franchise has been a rousing success. And if the popularity of “Maddenpalooza” is an indication of things to come, it will only continue to get bigger.
History of Madden
Dating back to 1989, when it debuted on the Apple II, the Madden franchise has grown tremendously over its 20 years of existence. Despite the original game’s unchartered success, the sentiment from retailers and EA alike was to not move forward with a sequel. Undeterred, and with a change of heart, the game continued to evolve. EA made its biggest splash with its 1995 edition, the first game which featured an NFL PLAYERS (then PLAYERS INC) license, which granted the rights of all active NFL players for use in the game.
NFL PLAYERS COO Andy Feffer reinforced the enthusiasm of partnering with EA Sports over the past 14 years. “We are thrilled to be partners with the leaders in the video game industry,” Feffer said.
A Player’s Game, Too
As fans gave their feedback on the game, the group of former NFL players in attendance discussed a wide range of topics about Madden and showed that when it comes to video games, the real players are big fans, too.
Longtime Buffalo Bills great Andre Reed, who had his 12-year-old son with him, noticed that “kids are going crazy” over the game. Dickerson, he of the 2,000-rushing yard season, said, “I love to play. It’s just like playing real football.”
Meanwhile, Moon, also a fan of the game, offered one critique: “They need a bigger controller. These people don’t realize how many broken and jammed fingers I had in my career,” Moon said. And perhaps George summed it up best when he explained, “When you walk into a room, I’m not sure if it is a real NFL game on the television screen or Madden.”
But hard-core fans weren’t the only ones there.
“I used to be good at Madden back when you only needed three buttons to play,” retired NFL star Warren Sapp said.
While Sapp’s best Madden playing days may be behind him, the future is bright for EA Sports and its signature game. The launch of Madden, themed “Maddenpalooza,” gave fans the opportunity of a lifetime at this gaming and music-based festival/event—a first look at the highly anticipated Madden NFL 09.
The strong relationship between Electronic Arts and NFL PLAYERS, the marketing and licensing subsidiary of the NFLPA, was on display Monday as “Maddenpalooza” featured more than a dozen former NFL superstars including Marshall Faulk, Eric Dickerson, Warren Moon and Eddie George, the first Madden cover athlete. This unique interaction allowed fans to experience the launch of the franchise’s 20th iteration in grand style.
Peter Moore, President of EA Sports, said, “The launch of Madden NFL 09 is of a magnitude that only the Rose Bowl can accommodate.”
The fan-fest atmosphere offered a player autograph stage, more than 300 gaming kiosks, football long-toss competitions and free beverage tents. Kicking off the day, fans were treated to musical performances by Rev Theory and Airborne, two bands whose music has been featured on the game’s soundtracks.
“To have an event at an historical place like the Rose Bowl and to go outside and see the huge tarp of artwork draping the whole stadium is incredible. Madden has become synonymous with the NFL,” said ex-Chicago Bears wide receiver Willie Gault.
Fans flocked to the Rose Bowl, grabbing their place in long lines as early as 3 a.m. on Aug. 11, in order to guarantee themselves a chance to play and buy the first available copies of the game. One of those loyal fans, Pasadena resident Jonathan Martinez, could hardly contain his excitement.
“I came out today just to get Madden NFL 09,” he said. “I’ve been playing since 1989 and I’m really hoping to play against some former NFL players. I couldn’t miss this.”
Faulk, the cover athlete for the 2003 version of Madden, put into perspective the impact of the game on its fans. “They love this game, they want this game, they do everything for this game. If you drop this game on the field, and just gave one out to everyone, it would cause a riot,” Faulk said.
The pre-launch buildup ended with a bang as Good Charlotte and Busta Rhymes amped up the crowd just hours before the sale of the first game. In an adjacent Wal-Mart store made specifically for the event, the first fans to purchase a copy—Jessica Didway and Fernando Aragno from Hacienda Heights, Calif.—were showered in confetti and presented the first sale by former San Francisco 49ers great Roger Craig.
With millions of pre-ordered copies for this year’s game, the first 20 years of the Madden franchise has been a rousing success. And if the popularity of “Maddenpalooza” is an indication of things to come, it will only continue to get bigger.
History of Madden
Dating back to 1989, when it debuted on the Apple II, the Madden franchise has grown tremendously over its 20 years of existence. Despite the original game’s unchartered success, the sentiment from retailers and EA alike was to not move forward with a sequel. Undeterred, and with a change of heart, the game continued to evolve. EA made its biggest splash with its 1995 edition, the first game which featured an NFL PLAYERS (then PLAYERS INC) license, which granted the rights of all active NFL players for use in the game.
NFL PLAYERS COO Andy Feffer reinforced the enthusiasm of partnering with EA Sports over the past 14 years. “We are thrilled to be partners with the leaders in the video game industry,” Feffer said.
A Player’s Game, Too
As fans gave their feedback on the game, the group of former NFL players in attendance discussed a wide range of topics about Madden and showed that when it comes to video games, the real players are big fans, too.
Longtime Buffalo Bills great Andre Reed, who had his 12-year-old son with him, noticed that “kids are going crazy” over the game. Dickerson, he of the 2,000-rushing yard season, said, “I love to play. It’s just like playing real football.”
Meanwhile, Moon, also a fan of the game, offered one critique: “They need a bigger controller. These people don’t realize how many broken and jammed fingers I had in my career,” Moon said. And perhaps George summed it up best when he explained, “When you walk into a room, I’m not sure if it is a real NFL game on the television screen or Madden.”
Union Plus Provides Support for Education
The NFLPA’s involvement in the Union Plus program provides members with various opportunities available to them and their children, including scholarships.
“Students are eligible for various union-sponsored scholarships,” said NFLPA Union Privilege Liaison Christie Gagnon. “It’s a great way to help make continuing education more affordable.”
For more than a decade, the Union Plus Scholarship Program, offered through the Union Plus Education Foundation, has supported working families pursuing post-secondary education. There are currently four types of scholarships offered, all of which target different needs: the Union Plus Scholarship, Union Leaders of the Future Scholarship, Union Plus National Labor College Scholarship, and Nationwide Scholarship Search. All are available to family members of dues-paying union members in good standing. The 2009 scholarship applications will be available through the Union Plus website in September 2008.
“In addition to our player development department, which offers career and continuing education guidance, the Union Plus scholarship opportunities and College Planning Center are excellent resources available through Union Plus,” said Gagnon. “These tools are available to our active and retired members and their children, and we hope to increase the awareness and use of these educational tools amongst our membership.”
The College Planning Center provides family members with career assessments as well as assistance with the completion of college admission forms. To help simplify the timeline of the college application process, the center breaks it up into several segments: discovering, selecting, deciding, preparing, applying and paying.
To take advantage of these scholarship and college assistance opportunities and more, login in the upper right corner of this page. If you do not yet have login account please contact our offices at 800-372-2000. Active players should ask for ext. 475 or 474 and retired members should ask for ext. 167. Once logged in, click on Membership Discount Programs to view all current offers, which are subject to change.
“Students are eligible for various union-sponsored scholarships,” said NFLPA Union Privilege Liaison Christie Gagnon. “It’s a great way to help make continuing education more affordable.”
For more than a decade, the Union Plus Scholarship Program, offered through the Union Plus Education Foundation, has supported working families pursuing post-secondary education. There are currently four types of scholarships offered, all of which target different needs: the Union Plus Scholarship, Union Leaders of the Future Scholarship, Union Plus National Labor College Scholarship, and Nationwide Scholarship Search. All are available to family members of dues-paying union members in good standing. The 2009 scholarship applications will be available through the Union Plus website in September 2008.
“In addition to our player development department, which offers career and continuing education guidance, the Union Plus scholarship opportunities and College Planning Center are excellent resources available through Union Plus,” said Gagnon. “These tools are available to our active and retired members and their children, and we hope to increase the awareness and use of these educational tools amongst our membership.”
The College Planning Center provides family members with career assessments as well as assistance with the completion of college admission forms. To help simplify the timeline of the college application process, the center breaks it up into several segments: discovering, selecting, deciding, preparing, applying and paying.
To take advantage of these scholarship and college assistance opportunities and more, login in the upper right corner of this page. If you do not yet have login account please contact our offices at 800-372-2000. Active players should ask for ext. 475 or 474 and retired members should ask for ext. 167. Once logged in, click on Membership Discount Programs to view all current offers, which are subject to change.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Mourning Receives Community Assist Award for July!!
NEW YORK, August 14, 2008 – Miami HEAT center Alonzo Mourning has been named the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award for July, in recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and for his ongoing philanthropic and charitable work.
The seven-time NBA All-Star and well-known philanthropist is being honored for the success of his 12th annual “Zo’s Summer Groove,” held last month in Miami, Florida. This year, Mourning joined forces with his teammate Dwyane Wade and his Wade’s World Foundation, raising money to support a variety of educational programs in the greater Miami area. Thousands of participants turned out for the weeklong event, which included a golf tournament, concert, benefit dinner, youth summit, basketball clinic and a star-studded basketball game that closed out the festivities.
“My passion and commitment to provide kids with the tools they need to succeed is as strong as when I started Alonzo Mourning Charities in 1997,” said Mourning. “Zo’s Summer Groove, our largest fundraiser, has truly been a fun, community-centered effort that provides many programs with the financial support needed to make education a priority.”
Through AM Charities, Mourning’s community assistance continues year-round. Since 1997, the organization has donated millions of dollars to support existing youth programs and toward creating youth enrichment centers, including the Overtown Youth Center in South Florida. Mourning opened the Center in 2003, and today it continues to provide children with a safe environment in which to learn and excel. Another major component of the Alonzo Mourning Charities is the Honey Shine Mentoring Program, which strives to empower young girls through biweekly workshops and summer camps, promoting positive body image, a strong sense of self and helps members to develop into happy, healthy adults.
This marks the second time that Mourning has been named the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award. He last won the honor in July 2006.
As July’s NBA Community Assist Award recipient, Mourning will receive the David Robinson Plaque, with the inscription, “Following the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece.” In addition, a $5,000 donation will be given by the NBA to the Alonzo Mourning Charities.
The league presents the NBA Community Assist Award monthly to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who best reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities.
The seven-time NBA All-Star and well-known philanthropist is being honored for the success of his 12th annual “Zo’s Summer Groove,” held last month in Miami, Florida. This year, Mourning joined forces with his teammate Dwyane Wade and his Wade’s World Foundation, raising money to support a variety of educational programs in the greater Miami area. Thousands of participants turned out for the weeklong event, which included a golf tournament, concert, benefit dinner, youth summit, basketball clinic and a star-studded basketball game that closed out the festivities.
“My passion and commitment to provide kids with the tools they need to succeed is as strong as when I started Alonzo Mourning Charities in 1997,” said Mourning. “Zo’s Summer Groove, our largest fundraiser, has truly been a fun, community-centered effort that provides many programs with the financial support needed to make education a priority.”
Through AM Charities, Mourning’s community assistance continues year-round. Since 1997, the organization has donated millions of dollars to support existing youth programs and toward creating youth enrichment centers, including the Overtown Youth Center in South Florida. Mourning opened the Center in 2003, and today it continues to provide children with a safe environment in which to learn and excel. Another major component of the Alonzo Mourning Charities is the Honey Shine Mentoring Program, which strives to empower young girls through biweekly workshops and summer camps, promoting positive body image, a strong sense of self and helps members to develop into happy, healthy adults.
This marks the second time that Mourning has been named the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award. He last won the honor in July 2006.
As July’s NBA Community Assist Award recipient, Mourning will receive the David Robinson Plaque, with the inscription, “Following the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece.” In addition, a $5,000 donation will be given by the NBA to the Alonzo Mourning Charities.
The league presents the NBA Community Assist Award monthly to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who best reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities.
The Levi's(R) Brand Digitally "Unbuttons" a Diverse Cast of Emerging Artists as Part of Global 501(R) Marketing Campaign
Campaign Features exclusive new tracks by talented musicians Estelle, Nikka Costa and Wale and content from celebrity blog sensation Perez Hilton
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Aug. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- This week, the Levi's(R) Brand launches an innovative digital experience as part of its global "Live Unbuttoned" campaign celebrating the iconic Levi's(R) 501(R) jean. The digital program 'unbuttons' a cast of some of the hottest new artists from the world of music, art, sports and entertainment. Fast rising R&B star Estelle, lyrical wizard Wale, celebrity blogger extraordinaire Perez Hilton and XGames gold medalist Jamie Bestwick are just a few of the stars who 'unbutton' themselves to reveal fun, whimsical videos and exclusive online content.
At the heart of the Levi's(R) new digital experience is the idea that everyone has something to reveal, they just need to be 'unbuttoned'. Levi's "Unbuttoned" digital concept was developed and executed by EVB San Francisco with artist-relations support from Cornerstone. The experience offers fans a sneak peak into each artist's 'revelations'; through exclusive full motion videos, music downloads and film content. Exclusive tracks by Estelle, Wale and Nikka Costa from their respective forthcoming albums were produced for the "Live Unbuttoned" digital campaign. The tracks are available for free download at www.levi.com/estelle, www.levi.com/nikka and www.levi.com/wale.
"Levi's is a brand that represents creativity, individuality and freedom of expression. This spirit is at the heart of the 'unbuttoned' campaign and the new digital experience curated by Levi's(R)," said Doug Sweeny, Director of Levi's(R) Brand Marketing. "The emerging artists we partnered with unbutton themselves in their own unique and inspired way. The resulting brand experience invites consumers to interact with Levi's(R) in a fun and relevant way that will evolve and grow as consumers interact with it over time."
The "Unbuttoned" digital campaign is supported by an awareness print media campaign by EVB in magazines including Rolling Stone, The Fader, Giant, Dime, Vibe and ESPN. A rich online media campaign produced by Ave A/Razorfish was also developed to support the launch of the campaign.
About Levi's(R) "Unbuttoned" Talent
Estelle -- Singer, song writer and producer, Estelle brings a mix of lounge-funk, reggae, hip hop and soul to her ground-breaking sound. Estelle stands out as a strong, independent woman who inspires others with her relentless pursuit of being real and authentic. Estelle's recent chart topper "American Boy" featuring Kanye West is a number one single worldwide. Levi's customers can get a free exclusive download of Estelle's new song "No Substitute Love Remix" at www.levi.com/estelle.
Perez Hilton -- Celebrity blogger and television personality writes one of the most visited and loved entertainment sites online at perezhilton.com. The site generates as many as 8 million readers a day. Check out what Perez has to say in early September at www.levi.com/perez.
Wale is known and respected by fans worldwide for his mix raw energy, lyrical wizardry and genre-bending production. Wale garnered crazy buzz and many industry-firsts in 2007, all without a record deal. In 2008, he signed with Interscope via Grammy Award winning producer Mark Ronson and will release his first album in 2009. Wale produced an exclusive remix for Levi's off "100 Miles and Running" called "Breakdown" available now at www.levi.com/wale.
Nikka Costa -- Born into a family of musicians, this songstress takes a dash of Janis, a pinch of Tina and a spoonful of James Brown to deliver music that is confidently unique and continually evolving. For those who like their tunes fresh and soulful with an injection of rock and R&B, Nikka's style fusion hits that musical sweet spot. Download Nikka Costa's exclusive "Stuck On You" remix at www.levi.com/nikka.
Jamie Bestwick -- The world's preeminent vertical BMX rider, Jamie won an XGames Gold Medal just last week and is a five time XGames Gold medal winner. If anyone knows the value of taking a chance, it's Jamie. "The King of Vert" dumped his day job to ride BMX full time almost ten years ago and has never looked back. Look for a cool video featuring Jamie at www.levi.com/jamie.
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Aug. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- This week, the Levi's(R) Brand launches an innovative digital experience as part of its global "Live Unbuttoned" campaign celebrating the iconic Levi's(R) 501(R) jean. The digital program 'unbuttons' a cast of some of the hottest new artists from the world of music, art, sports and entertainment. Fast rising R&B star Estelle, lyrical wizard Wale, celebrity blogger extraordinaire Perez Hilton and XGames gold medalist Jamie Bestwick are just a few of the stars who 'unbutton' themselves to reveal fun, whimsical videos and exclusive online content.
At the heart of the Levi's(R) new digital experience is the idea that everyone has something to reveal, they just need to be 'unbuttoned'. Levi's "Unbuttoned" digital concept was developed and executed by EVB San Francisco with artist-relations support from Cornerstone. The experience offers fans a sneak peak into each artist's 'revelations'; through exclusive full motion videos, music downloads and film content. Exclusive tracks by Estelle, Wale and Nikka Costa from their respective forthcoming albums were produced for the "Live Unbuttoned" digital campaign. The tracks are available for free download at www.levi.com/estelle, www.levi.com/nikka and www.levi.com/wale.
"Levi's is a brand that represents creativity, individuality and freedom of expression. This spirit is at the heart of the 'unbuttoned' campaign and the new digital experience curated by Levi's(R)," said Doug Sweeny, Director of Levi's(R) Brand Marketing. "The emerging artists we partnered with unbutton themselves in their own unique and inspired way. The resulting brand experience invites consumers to interact with Levi's(R) in a fun and relevant way that will evolve and grow as consumers interact with it over time."
The "Unbuttoned" digital campaign is supported by an awareness print media campaign by EVB in magazines including Rolling Stone, The Fader, Giant, Dime, Vibe and ESPN. A rich online media campaign produced by Ave A/Razorfish was also developed to support the launch of the campaign.
About Levi's(R) "Unbuttoned" Talent
Estelle -- Singer, song writer and producer, Estelle brings a mix of lounge-funk, reggae, hip hop and soul to her ground-breaking sound. Estelle stands out as a strong, independent woman who inspires others with her relentless pursuit of being real and authentic. Estelle's recent chart topper "American Boy" featuring Kanye West is a number one single worldwide. Levi's customers can get a free exclusive download of Estelle's new song "No Substitute Love Remix" at www.levi.com/estelle.
Perez Hilton -- Celebrity blogger and television personality writes one of the most visited and loved entertainment sites online at perezhilton.com. The site generates as many as 8 million readers a day. Check out what Perez has to say in early September at www.levi.com/perez.
Wale is known and respected by fans worldwide for his mix raw energy, lyrical wizardry and genre-bending production. Wale garnered crazy buzz and many industry-firsts in 2007, all without a record deal. In 2008, he signed with Interscope via Grammy Award winning producer Mark Ronson and will release his first album in 2009. Wale produced an exclusive remix for Levi's off "100 Miles and Running" called "Breakdown" available now at www.levi.com/wale.
Nikka Costa -- Born into a family of musicians, this songstress takes a dash of Janis, a pinch of Tina and a spoonful of James Brown to deliver music that is confidently unique and continually evolving. For those who like their tunes fresh and soulful with an injection of rock and R&B, Nikka's style fusion hits that musical sweet spot. Download Nikka Costa's exclusive "Stuck On You" remix at www.levi.com/nikka.
Jamie Bestwick -- The world's preeminent vertical BMX rider, Jamie won an XGames Gold Medal just last week and is a five time XGames Gold medal winner. If anyone knows the value of taking a chance, it's Jamie. "The King of Vert" dumped his day job to ride BMX full time almost ten years ago and has never looked back. Look for a cool video featuring Jamie at www.levi.com/jamie.
Let's Take IT Global!!!
Over the weekend, Japanese game developer Square Enix Co Ltd invited the video game enthusiasts to an event held in Tokyo, meant to provide a peak at several upcoming releases, including trailers for the Final Fantasy XIII series, news and also new information on other games.
The event, called the DKΣ3713, managed to accommodate close to 1,500 fans, all eager to see what the company’s currently working on. One of the most exciting news refers to the playable demo of Final Fantasy XIII, which will be included in the Blu-ray Disc package prepared for Final Fantasy VII Advent Children Complete. In order to make it a mandatory buy for all of the game’s fans, the company will also include trailers for Final Fantasy Versus XIII and Final Fantasy Agito XIII.
The company is carefully building up the hype around the Final Fantasy XIII release, which is scheduled for 2009 in Japan and it is very likely to become Square Enix’s best seller. The company recently made the fans extremely happy, announcing during the E3 show in Los Angeles that the Final Fantasy XIII game will also be available on the Xbox 360 platform. The game will be available on Sony Corp’s PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Corp’s Xbox 360 in the United States and Europe and exclusively on the PS3 in Japan.
If the fans in Japan know that they will get to enjoy their favorite game in the second part of 2009, the fans from Europe and from the United States still have to wait for an official announcement, as there is no information about the game’s worldwide release.
The event, called the DKΣ3713, managed to accommodate close to 1,500 fans, all eager to see what the company’s currently working on. One of the most exciting news refers to the playable demo of Final Fantasy XIII, which will be included in the Blu-ray Disc package prepared for Final Fantasy VII Advent Children Complete. In order to make it a mandatory buy for all of the game’s fans, the company will also include trailers for Final Fantasy Versus XIII and Final Fantasy Agito XIII.
The company is carefully building up the hype around the Final Fantasy XIII release, which is scheduled for 2009 in Japan and it is very likely to become Square Enix’s best seller. The company recently made the fans extremely happy, announcing during the E3 show in Los Angeles that the Final Fantasy XIII game will also be available on the Xbox 360 platform. The game will be available on Sony Corp’s PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Corp’s Xbox 360 in the United States and Europe and exclusively on the PS3 in Japan.
If the fans in Japan know that they will get to enjoy their favorite game in the second part of 2009, the fans from Europe and from the United States still have to wait for an official announcement, as there is no information about the game’s worldwide release.
Rage To Perform During Democratic National Convention
Rage Against The Machine will perform for free on August 27 at the Denver Coliseum during the Democratic National Convention, in conjunction with the Iraq Veterans Against the War and Tent State University.
The performance, according to Billboard.com, is part of the Tent State Music Festival to End the War, and also features Flobots, the Coup, State Radio and Wayne Kramer. The event begins at 11:00 AM, and has no age requirements.
Fans can sign up for tickets, which will be given away free by lottery, by presenting a photo ID at Cuernavaca Park at the university's campus starting August 24 through August 26 from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Rage is keeping it fair, as the group will also perform on September 3 in Minneapolis - the same week the Republican National Convention takes place. Bassist/guitarist for the group, Tom Morello, has also said he intends to perform with Steve Earle at a union rally in the Twin Cities on September 1 (Labor Day).
Rage Against the Machine, noted for its political subject matter, as well as its incorporation of Hip Hop in its music, reunited at last year's Coachella festival, seven years after the group split. They also headlined last year's wildly successful Rock The Bells tour series.
The performance, according to Billboard.com, is part of the Tent State Music Festival to End the War, and also features Flobots, the Coup, State Radio and Wayne Kramer. The event begins at 11:00 AM, and has no age requirements.
Fans can sign up for tickets, which will be given away free by lottery, by presenting a photo ID at Cuernavaca Park at the university's campus starting August 24 through August 26 from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Rage is keeping it fair, as the group will also perform on September 3 in Minneapolis - the same week the Republican National Convention takes place. Bassist/guitarist for the group, Tom Morello, has also said he intends to perform with Steve Earle at a union rally in the Twin Cities on September 1 (Labor Day).
Rage Against the Machine, noted for its political subject matter, as well as its incorporation of Hip Hop in its music, reunited at last year's Coachella festival, seven years after the group split. They also headlined last year's wildly successful Rock The Bells tour series.
Just in time for Madden!! Microsoft Unveils Its New 60 GB Xbox Console
Starting with August 15, the new 60 Giga Bytes Xbox 360 console will be available in the United Kingdom. The price announced for the new release remains the same as before at £199 and it will replace the 20 GB Pro package as the mid-range Xbox Stock-keeping unit.
The decision to develop a console with significantly more space came naturally for the company and Mr. Neil Thompson, senior regional director of Microsoft's entertainment and devices division, managed to explain it best: " No other device offers the depth and breadth of entertainment that Xbox 360 can deliver and we know consumers need increasingly more and more space to store the amazing digital entertainment content we provide." He also underlined the fact that users will now be able to enjoy the extra space at no extra cost.
The company included in its offer a wireless controller, a headset and one month subscription to Xbox Live Gold.
The rest of the company’s offer remains the same, with the Xbox 360 Arcade, which includes a 256 MB memory card but no hard drive, selling for £159.99 and the Xbox 360Elite with its 120 GB selling for £259.99.
Another version, this time with an 80 GB hard drive, is also scheduled for release later this month on August 29 at the price of £299.99.
The Xbox 360 was first presented on May 12, 2005 during a show on MTV and since then it reached immense global popularity with its three available versions. The company is constantly looking for new ways to top its main competitors, Sony’s PlayStation 3 and Nintendo’s Wii.
Samantha Morton Backs Volunteering For Charity
A couple of years ago, British actress Samantha Morton loaned her voice to A National Voice (ANV). Now it’s resonating through Vodafone’s World of Difference campaign.
Impressed that ANV – whose goal is to address the lack of support for the over 60,000young people in care in the UK – was founded by a local woman literally out of a room in her flat, Morton contacted the charity to see how she could help.
One of the young members was equally impressed with Morton: “We got to interview [Samantha] to be an Ambassador for ANV and she was so lovely. She talked to us about her experiences being in care. It was an amazing experience to meet her.”
Then Morton and ANV helped launch the World of Difference, Vodafone’s campaign to financially support volunteers to give up their day jobs to work for a charity of their choices for a year.
“I feel really passionate about helping children and young people who are in the care system,” said Morton. “I support A National Voice as it aims to make positive changes to the care system in the UK and gives a voice to those being cared for. The World of Difference project gives people the opportunity to work with their own favorite charity – I’ve seen first hand what a difference an extra pair of hands can make… It just seemed to me that I understood the ethos behind it.”
Acceptance of applications to the World of Difference campaign ended July 31. The four winning volunteers will be announced in September.
Article pulled from Look to the Stars
Impressed that ANV – whose goal is to address the lack of support for the over 60,000young people in care in the UK – was founded by a local woman literally out of a room in her flat, Morton contacted the charity to see how she could help.
One of the young members was equally impressed with Morton: “We got to interview [Samantha] to be an Ambassador for ANV and she was so lovely. She talked to us about her experiences being in care. It was an amazing experience to meet her.”
Then Morton and ANV helped launch the World of Difference, Vodafone’s campaign to financially support volunteers to give up their day jobs to work for a charity of their choices for a year.
“I feel really passionate about helping children and young people who are in the care system,” said Morton. “I support A National Voice as it aims to make positive changes to the care system in the UK and gives a voice to those being cared for. The World of Difference project gives people the opportunity to work with their own favorite charity – I’ve seen first hand what a difference an extra pair of hands can make… It just seemed to me that I understood the ethos behind it.”
Acceptance of applications to the World of Difference campaign ended July 31. The four winning volunteers will be announced in September.
Article pulled from Look to the Stars
Kanye West To Open Restaurant Chain
Kanye West has a treat for all the West Coasters in Chicago: The rapper’s KW Foods LLC got a license to open 10 Fatburger restaurants in his hometown, Chicago Business reported.
According to a spokesperson of Fatburger Corp., Kanye West’s KW Foods LLC, has the rights to develop 10 Fatburgers in Chicago area!
The first burger joint is set to open up in September (date to be determined) at 15110 S. La Grange Road- Orland Park. The 2,353-square-foot fast-food will feature 74seats. He hopes to open a second Fatburger in January 95th and Western Avenue- Evergreen Park in Beverly neighborhood. He also has a spot picked for the third location, but the lease has yet to be finalized. A spokesperson for the burger chain confirmed Kanye’s plans. Kanye West’s 10 restaurants will join the 93 Fatburger outlets that already exist across the US and Canada.
The restaurants maintain that old-fashioned atmosphere, with three jukeboxes (will they all play hip-hop music?) and the famous slogan “The Last Great Hamburger Stand.”
Fatburger is a California burger institution and is In-N-Out Burger’s biggest competition. And, well, we all know how much Kanye likes a little competition.
Fatburger, which primarily calls California home, is a popular fast-food chain. This will be the first restaurant in Chicago.
It appears that hip hop and Fatburger have a longer history together, which goes beyond West entrepreneurial approach. Notorious BIG and Ice Cube had their rhymes, rapping about the burgers, moreover, Beastie Boys had their own lyrics dedicated to the tasty food. Also, it is rumored that Queen Latifah and E-40 own franchises as well, while Pharrell Williams’ outlet competes with the Chinese gastronomic tradition in nowhere else but China.
In the meantime, Kanye West is reportedly going back in the studio to prepare some new material. His last released album is called “Graduation.” Reports state that the rapper is currently working with Jay-Z, preparing the release of his forthcoming album, “Blueprint 3.” Leaks on the internet revealed that one of the tracks on the album is titled “Jockin' Jay-Z.” Although the media rumored that Kanye West is to produce the greatest part of Jay-Z’s album, neither part has confirmed or denied the allegations.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Oprah to head to Denver for Obama nomination
From CNN's Victoria Riess
Oprah hit the trail for Obama during the primary season.
(CNN) — Oprah Winfrey will be on hand when Barack Obama accepts the Democratic nomination in Denver – but the talk show host, who was a key presence at rallies for the Illinois senator during the primary season, won’t take the stage, a representative from her production company told CNN Wednesday.
The spokeswoman also denied rumors Winfrey was planning to spend thousands renting a home in Denver during the convention.
In June, shortly after Obama effectively clinched the Democratic nomination, Winfrey – who appeared with him in several key early-voting states, including Iowa, New Hampshire and California – said she was "euphoric” over his victory.
“I've been doing the happy dance all day,” she said in a statement then. “I'm so proud of Barack and Michelle and what this means for all of us, the new possibilities for our country.”
She added that she’d be happy to hit the trail again on his behalf: “And if he wants me to, I'm ready to go door to door."
Filed under: Barack Obama • Oprah Winfrey
Olympian makes a splash
Published Thursday, August 14, 2008
by David Parker, The Associated Press
NEWARK, N.J. – The John F. Kennedy Pool and Recreation Center straddles nearly an entire block in a city neighborhood where it is not uncommon to find new housing stock standing cheek by jowl with abandoned buildings and empty lots strewn with debris.
In the standard American sports narrative, this is not where Olympic swimming champions are nurtured – at least, until now.
ASSOCIATED PRESS/BOB BUKATY
Cullen Jones, left, changes to teammate Nathan Adrian in a men’s 4x100 meter freesyle relay heat in the National Aquatic Center at the Beijing Olympics Aug. 9. Jones, who trains and lives in Charlotte, is the second African American to earn an Olympic gold medal in swimming.
It was here that Cullen Jones learned to swim competitively and first professed his Olympic ambitions. And it was here on Monday that friends and former teammates celebrated his gold medal-winning performance on the U.S. men's 400 meter relay team.
The victory, in a pulsating race that was in doubt until U.S. anchor Jason Lezak touched the wall a whisker in front of France's Alain Bernard, made Jones only the second African-American swimmer to win an Olympic gold medal, after Anthony Ervin in 2000.
“He was one of the good ones who came out of here,'' Moustapha Kamara, a swimming instructor and supervisor at the Kennedy center, said Monday. “It's a very proud feeling knowing that someone from here is coming home with the gold. It was overwhelming to actually see it.''
Jones, 24, who lives in Charlotte and was a star swimmer at N.C. State University, was born in the Bronx and grew up next door to Newark in Irvington, a city with a reputation for crime and violence that tends to overshadow most other news. He gravitated to the Kennedy center as a youth and competed on the local swim team there, impressing teammates with his work ethic.
Brennon Smith grew up across the street from the pool at a time when, he said, few people used it even though it was one of the only public recreation facilities in the area. Jones was a fixture there, and eventually his enthusiasm rubbed off on Smith.
“Even if no else was there, he'd be in there practicing,'' Smith said. “Watching how passionate he was about it got me into swimming. He was a great role model, always trying to help someone out.''
Jones returned to Newark last fall to promote a water safety program for urban children, an initiative spurred by a study by the Centers for Disease Control that showed the rate of drowning deaths for blacks between ages 10 and 19 was nearly three times that of whites.
The issue has personal relevance for Jones, who often tells the story of how he nearly drowned at age 5 when the inner tube he was riding at an amusement park flipped over and trapped him underwater.
The experience couldn't keep Jones away from the water, and he arrived at Newark's St. Benedict's Prep last fall already on a mission.
“He was already talking about making the Olympics when he got here,'' St. Benedict's coach Glenn Cassidy recalled Monday. “We could tell he had a lot of talent, and that he had the drive to do it.''
Cassidy remembers Jones as a personable but quiet youth who eventually matured both in and out of the pool and earned a leadership position that gave him the responsibility of overseeing 25 or 30 other students each day.
For Cassidy, who said the U.S. team's victory had him “jumping up and down, screaming and crying at the same time,'' Jones' accomplishment should not be underestimated.
“It's about breaking stereotypes,'' he said. “For people to see someone of color who can stand out in a nontraditional area in a role that is positive, is tremendous.''
by David Parker, The Associated Press
NEWARK, N.J. – The John F. Kennedy Pool and Recreation Center straddles nearly an entire block in a city neighborhood where it is not uncommon to find new housing stock standing cheek by jowl with abandoned buildings and empty lots strewn with debris.
In the standard American sports narrative, this is not where Olympic swimming champions are nurtured – at least, until now.
ASSOCIATED PRESS/BOB BUKATY
Cullen Jones, left, changes to teammate Nathan Adrian in a men’s 4x100 meter freesyle relay heat in the National Aquatic Center at the Beijing Olympics Aug. 9. Jones, who trains and lives in Charlotte, is the second African American to earn an Olympic gold medal in swimming.
It was here that Cullen Jones learned to swim competitively and first professed his Olympic ambitions. And it was here on Monday that friends and former teammates celebrated his gold medal-winning performance on the U.S. men's 400 meter relay team.
The victory, in a pulsating race that was in doubt until U.S. anchor Jason Lezak touched the wall a whisker in front of France's Alain Bernard, made Jones only the second African-American swimmer to win an Olympic gold medal, after Anthony Ervin in 2000.
“He was one of the good ones who came out of here,'' Moustapha Kamara, a swimming instructor and supervisor at the Kennedy center, said Monday. “It's a very proud feeling knowing that someone from here is coming home with the gold. It was overwhelming to actually see it.''
Jones, 24, who lives in Charlotte and was a star swimmer at N.C. State University, was born in the Bronx and grew up next door to Newark in Irvington, a city with a reputation for crime and violence that tends to overshadow most other news. He gravitated to the Kennedy center as a youth and competed on the local swim team there, impressing teammates with his work ethic.
Brennon Smith grew up across the street from the pool at a time when, he said, few people used it even though it was one of the only public recreation facilities in the area. Jones was a fixture there, and eventually his enthusiasm rubbed off on Smith.
“Even if no else was there, he'd be in there practicing,'' Smith said. “Watching how passionate he was about it got me into swimming. He was a great role model, always trying to help someone out.''
Jones returned to Newark last fall to promote a water safety program for urban children, an initiative spurred by a study by the Centers for Disease Control that showed the rate of drowning deaths for blacks between ages 10 and 19 was nearly three times that of whites.
The issue has personal relevance for Jones, who often tells the story of how he nearly drowned at age 5 when the inner tube he was riding at an amusement park flipped over and trapped him underwater.
The experience couldn't keep Jones away from the water, and he arrived at Newark's St. Benedict's Prep last fall already on a mission.
“He was already talking about making the Olympics when he got here,'' St. Benedict's coach Glenn Cassidy recalled Monday. “We could tell he had a lot of talent, and that he had the drive to do it.''
Cassidy remembers Jones as a personable but quiet youth who eventually matured both in and out of the pool and earned a leadership position that gave him the responsibility of overseeing 25 or 30 other students each day.
For Cassidy, who said the U.S. team's victory had him “jumping up and down, screaming and crying at the same time,'' Jones' accomplishment should not be underestimated.
“It's about breaking stereotypes,'' he said. “For people to see someone of color who can stand out in a nontraditional area in a role that is positive, is tremendous.''
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