AAF Names New Chief Operating Officer Constance Cannon Frazier

James Edmund Datri, President and CEO of the American Advertising Federation (AAF), today announced that Constance Cannon Frazier, currently Executive Vice President of Corporate Programming and Development, has been named Chief Operating Officer, effective August 1. Frazier will succeed Jeffry L. Perlman (current COO since November 2008), who is retiring after 19 years of service to the AAF. Her appointment makes Frazier the highest-ranking African-American woman at a national advertising trade association.



"Connie Frazier's selection as the next Chief Operating Officer of the AAF is an exciting and historic choice -- the first African-American woman to serve in that role at any national advertising trade association," said Datri. "Her strong leadership has been central in building many of the AAF's signature initiatives into the successes they are today. She was the obvious choice to fill the big shoes left by the departure of Jeffry Perlman. She is going to be a fantastic COO for the Federation."



Frank Cooper, chairman of the AAF Board of Directors and SVP, Chief Consumer Engagement Officer of PepsiCo Americas Beverages, said: "Both the AAF and the entire advertising industry benefit from the selection of Connie Frazier as the next COO of the AAF. Her leadership and commitment to the AAF has opened new doors for future leaders of the advertising industry and has expanded the possibilities of what we can be as an industry. We know that she will carry that commitment with her as she becomes the next Chief Operating Officer of the AAF."

"I am honored to be named Chief Operating Officer of the American Advertising Federation, an organization recognized as being in the vanguard of innovation, enterprise and inclusiveness," said Frazier. "We will expand our outreach to advertisers, agencies, media professionals and students across this nation to ensure that our members are served during these challenging and exciting times. Our agenda will remain action-oriented--offering the finest programs, fostering unique connections, and serving the public interest. As the 'Unifying Voice of the Advertising Industry,' AAF will continue to lead the way as our industry continues to converge and expand."



Reporting directly to CEO Datri, Frazier will manage the AAF's day-to-day operations (financial, programmatic, and human resources), implement programs and systems to advance the organization's effectiveness, and execute the Strategic Plan developed by the CEO. She will also assist the CEO with the retention and development of corporate, professional and college chapter membership. Furthermore, she will continue leadership of the Mosaic Center and AAF's efforts to create a more inclusive advertising industry.



Since joining the AAF in 2004, Frazier's accomplishments include increasing corporate support of diversity programs, doubling the number of participants and financial support for the Most Promising Minority Students Program, launching the AAF Mosaic Career & Vendor Fairs and creating the first-ever AAF student conference.



Complete biographical information for Frazier can be found online at www.aaf.org or by clicking here: http://www.aaf.org/default.asp?id=386.





ABOUT AAF

The American Advertising Federation (AAF), headquartered in Washington, D.C., acts as the "Unifying Voice for Advertising." The AAF is the oldest national advertising trade association, representing 40,000 professionals in the advertising industry and 7000 advertising students. The AAF has a national network of 200 Ad Clubs located in ad communities across the country. Through its 226 college chapters, the AAF provides students with real-world case studies and recruitment connections to corporate America. The AAF also has nearly 100 blue-chip corporate members that are advertisers, agencies and media companies, comprising the nation's leading brands and corporations. For more information, visit the AAF's website at www.aaf.org.

Just A Minstrel

Who Is R&B Singer John Brown?

Who Is R&B Singer John Brown? from UMRG Fan on Vimeo.

AZ 'Feel My Pain'

AZ "Feel My Pain" (Official video) from Clockwork Music on Vimeo.

Drinks With DJ Enuff

@Vh1 #HipHopHonors Red Carpet w/ @Daboigenius from @Blackplanet

B2: Productions Presents...The 6th Annual Black 2: Broadway Celebrates the Tony Awards

Black 2: Broadway, the exclusive event celebrating the contributions of performers of color in the arts, continues in its sixth year of honoring past and current Tony Award® winners of color, with another all-star event on Sunday, June 13, 2010, 8:00 p.m. at G Uptown, 2110 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. (at 125th Street) in the heart of Harlem.



Founded by B2: Productions partners, Sean Hollingsworth and Kevin-Anthony, Black 2: Broadway is serving its mission to create a support structure for the ongoing development and proliferation of talent and new works generated and produced by people of color. This year's Black 2: Broadway event will include a cocktail hour, followed by a big screen viewing of the Tony Awards® telecast. During the commercial breaks, there will be performances by artists, previous Tony Award® winners and current nominees.



On March 10, 2002 Black 2: Broadway launched its inaugural event showcasing the talents of performers of color, both known and unknown. Over the years, Black 2: Broadway events have included performances by a host of Broadway talent and national recording artists such as Phylicia Rashad, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Melba Moore, Jennifer Holliday, Jennifer Lewis, LaChanze, Lillias White, Savion Glover, Ebony Jo-Ann, BJ Crosby, Malik Yoba, Marva Hicks, Billy Porter, Victor Cook, Darius de Haas, Tina Fabrique, Ty Stephens, Shelton Becton, The Broadway Inspirational Voices, Alyson Williams, Ledisi, Shirley Murdock, Phoebe Snow, Freddie Jackson, Meli'sa Morgan and Jenny Burton.

Black 2: Broadway's ongoing aim is to offer opportunities for stage and musical performers to unite with the audiences that enthusiastically want to support them. Black 2: Broadway serves as a model for future activities to be held across the country.



On Sunday, June 13, doors will open at 7:30 p.m. and showtime is at 8:00 p.m. sharp. Ticket prices are $65.00 in advance and $75.00 after June 9, 2010. Ticket price includes passed hors d'oeuvres, buffet, dessert and coffee station. Tickets may be purchased by phone at 212-352-3101, or online at www.theatermania.com.



For more information on Black 2: Broadway, log on to www.black2broadway.com or www.b2productions.xbuild.com.

Brian Culbertson To Release 12th CD

R&B/JAZZ MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST BRIAN CULBERTSON TO RELEASE TWELFTH CD - XII

Perennial Chart-Topping Keyboard King Unites Stylistically Varied All-Star Cast For His Latest Multi-Format Masterpiece

Early Highlights - "Skies Wide Open" Single Featuring Avant; #1 Most Added First Week Out; Debuts On BDS Adult R&B Chart #22; Debuts On Mediabase Urban AC At #23; #2 Most Increased Record At The Format

CD cover

Los Angeles, CA (BlackNews.com) -- On July 20, 2010, chart-topping musician Brian Culbertson will release the twelfth album of his multi-faceted career, simply titled XII, on GRP Records.

Culbertson commemorates his twelfth release with 12 new songs that continue to reflect his broad-ranging musicality and mastery of intimate moods. The titles swing from the rapturous metaphorically rich love ballad "Skies Wide Open" (featuring R&B singing star Avant), the sexy bedroom baby-maker "I Wanna Love You" (featuring singer/guitarist Ray Parker Jr.), the strings-kissed dance jam "Another Love" (featuring 21st century soul man Kenny Lattimore) and the cool club persuader "Out On the Floor" (featuring balladeer supreme Brian McKnight) to the slammin' attitude jam "Don't U Know Me By Now" (featuring powerhouse Faith Evans), a journey through the many moods of being entitled "That's Life" (featuring Earl Klugh who co-penned it along with fellow Detroit native Parker and Culbertson), a think piece on the meaning of it all titled "I Don't Know" (featuring spoken word enchantress Natalie Stewart of Floetry), and an all-out Go-Go party jam titled "Feelin' It" (featuring the man who put Washington, D.C. Go-Go Music on the map, Chuck Brown in addition to a comedic appearance by Sinbad). Four more instrumentals round out the album, including the lovely dreamscape "Waiting for You" and the incredibly funky "Stay Wit It" on which he takes a rippin' Moog solo.

It was while in the act of Twittering about the making of his latest creation that Culbertson decided to simply title the project XII (Twelve). "I was just noticing that there are a lot of ‘12s' in my life," Brian muses... "I was born on January 12, I've been living in Los Angeles for 12 years now and have been married to my beautiful wife Michelle for 12 years. There are 12 notes on the piano... and it was at the age of 12 that I knew I was going to be a professional musician."

As he started work on the album, Brian thought of yet another way to make his fans a part of the creative process in a brilliant extension of the DVD he created last year, Live From The Inside. "I decided to create a video blog to give fans a chance to watch me make the album from start to finish. Almost daily, they could watch me execute and explain every step of the process, plus see me in sessions with all of my amazingly talented friends. The response has been phenomenal with many people tuning in every day to see what I'm up to. To ‘Twitter' about the project, I labeled the topic #BCXII. Someone said that would be a great title for the album, so it stuck."

Culbertson's steady stream of top albums and hit singles should come as no surprise since he began playing the piano at age 8, which he went on to master, along with the trombone, bass and drums. Growing up, he was influenced by heavy players ranging from Earth, Wind & Fire to The Brecker Brothers to James Brown.

After studying at DePaul University in Chicago, Brian released his self-produced album, Long Night Out (1994). Since that time, Culbertson has recorded on and/or produced over 25 chart-topping records on the contemporary jazz charts in musical styles that have moved from R&B throw downs to New Age lullabies. That rare eclecticism also informs the cornucopia of styles that animate this latest work, XII.

Culbertson produced all of the tracks on XII – nine alone, three in collaboration with the prolific Rex Rideout. The first single for Urban AC radio is the vocal ballad featuring Avant, "Skies Wide Open" (co-produced with Rideout) while the first single for smooth jazz radio is the Earl Klugh feature, "That's Life."

In addition to gearing up for the much anticipated twelfth title XII, Culbertson is bringing his new tour to cities around the world all summer long (including stops throughout the U.S., Japan, Germany, England and a return to the Capitol Jazz SuperCruise) and at year's end he'll join the "Dave Koz Christmas Tour" (along with Candy Dulfer and Jonathan Butler).

XII (track listing):

1) Feelin' It (Featuring Chuck Brown)

2) Another Love (Featuring Kenny Lattimore)

3) It's Time

4) Out on the Floor (Featuring Brian McKnight)

5) Waiting for You

6) Stay Wit It

7) Skies Wide Open (Featuring Avant)

8) Forever

9) Don't U Know Me By Now (Featuring Faith Evans)

10) That's Life (Featuring Earl Klugh)

11) I Wanna Love You (Featuring Ray Parker Jr.)

12) I Don't Know

To keep up with Culbertson, visit www.brianculbertson.com and www.youtube.com/brianculbertson

Africa Miranda | Never Knew

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

ESTELLE ANNOUNCES APPEARANCE AT COOL BRITANNIA FESTIVAL DURING WORLD CUP FINALS

ESTELLE ANNOUNCES APPEARANCE AT COOL BRITANNIA FESTIVAL DURING WORLD CUP FINALS
The World Cup is an opportunity for all nations to come together, a multicultural celebration of sport, and in the case of the Cool Britannia festival being held in Cape Town throughout the tournament a multicultural celebration of music. Who better to embody this spirit of collaboration that a London born rapper and singer who has made her name as a bona fide American superstar. Estelle has announced that she will be bringing her stunning live show to Cool Britannia on the June 11th – on the evening of the tournaments opening day and to launch what is set to be a spectacular month long party at the game’s greatest tournament.
And where better for Estelle to perform than at Cool Britannia, a glorious undercover festival site – Africa's largest- playing host to thousands of fans a day throughout the month long tournament. Estelle joins other amazing artists like Fat Boy Slim, Dizzee Rascal and Galaxy FM’s Steve Sutherland as well as a host of African acts on what is developing into a line up which would grace any festival stage.
Cool Britannia offers supporters the chance to watch ALL the World Cup games live on huge televised screens in the comfort of a ‘home from home’ for travelling fans. Meanwhile supporters with tickets to games at the magnificent Green Point stadium (just a stone’s throw away) can still catch an evening of entertainment with these big name headliners after the final whistle. Security is a key factor, and Cool Britannia’s English based organisers can guarantee a safe and secure meeting point on gateway to the waterfront at Cape Town's iconic international convention centre (CTICC) where the FIFA World Cup draw was made.
With nearly a decade of experience in organizing events for the travelling football faithful; from Champions League finals to European Cups, MD of Cool Britannia, Conor Nolan is excited to be bringing footballs greatest party to the game’s biggest spectacle. “If you like the sound of 31 days of incredible music acts, massive screens playing the footie and 32 nations partying under one roof in the heart of Cape Town, then the ONLY place you should be during the World Cup this summer is down on the Waterfront with Cool Britannia.”
Cool Britannia promises to be the ultimate festival, a fusion of football and music all set against the stunning backdrop of South Africa’s Cape, a true once in a lifetime experience.

For more information and to buy tickets, please visit –
www.coolbritanniasa.com
UK and Europe –
http://www.seetickets.com/see/event.asp?filler1=see&e|promoter=7360&n|artist=null&filler2=&orderby=date

THE ROOTS' "HOW I GOT OVER" SET FOR JUNE 22 RELEASE ; YIM YAMES, JOANNA NEWSOM, JOHN LEGEND GUEST-STAR!

) To call it “long-awaited” or “eagerly anticipated” would be the understatement of the year – as hip-hop’s most daring pioneers the Roots release their 9th studio album (and third for Def Jam Recordings) on June 22nd, HOW I GOT OVER. The album, which takes its name from Clara Ward’s gospel classic (made popular by Mahalia Jackson), is the Roots’ first new release since joining Late Night with Jimmy Fallon for a full time gig as the show’s house band. Grammy Award winners the Roots characterize the songs on HOW I GOT OVER as “depicting the everyman’s search for hope in this dispiriting post-hope zeitgeist”.
The lead single from the Roots new set will be “Dear God 2.0.” The track re-imagines the Monsters Of Folk song “Dear God” and features MOF members Yim Yames from My Morning Jacket, Conor Oberst and Mike Mogis from Bright Eyes and M. Ward. HOW I GOT OVER also includes two appearances from Grammy-winning soul man John Legend: “Doin’ It Again” a re-working of his track “Again,” and “The Fire,” an original song written for the Roots' 2010 Olympic concert performance.
The Roots and Legend have developed a strong musical bond, as the group has produced John's entire upcoming release Wake Up, which shares the socially conscious themes of the "How I Got Over" set and is comprised of late sixties/early seventies covers.
Other guests on HIGO include Joanna Newsom on “Right On,” Phonte Coleman (Little Brother, The Foreign Exchange), Blu (Blu & Exile), Peedi Peedi , Mercedes Martinez, Icelandic alt-pop singer Patty Crash, newcomer Sugar Tongue Slim as well as long time Roots’ Crew members Dice Raw, Truck North and P.O.R.N.
More than two decades after ‘?uestlove’ and ‘Black Thought’ first met under nefarious circumstances in the principal’s office of Philadelphia’s High School For the Creative and Performing Arts – and over 15 years since the Roots recorded their indie debut album in 1993, in preparation for a year-long European sojourn – the group and its intelligent school of jazz-inflected hip-hop are more relevant than ever.
HOW I GOT OVER is the follow-up to Rising Down (released April 2008), praised by Rolling Stone more than a month before the album’s release, for spewing “rhymes from the perspective of the poor and the dispossessed, from North Philly to Liberia.” Rising Down’s guests list included Common on “The Show” (with Dice Raw); original Roots rapper Malik B. on “Lost Desire” (with Brooklyn’s Talib Kweli) and “I Can’t Help It”; and fellow Def Jam R&B singer Chrisette Michele and Washington D.C. rapper Wale on the lighthearted closing track, “Rising Up.” Philadelphia hip-hop voices Dice Raw, Truck North, Porn, and Peedi Peedi appear throughout, as well as Mercedes Martinez of the Jazzyfatnastees.
The Roots’ previous Def Jam album was their label debut, Game Theory (August 2006) which was nominated for a Grammy Award as Best Rap Album. Its first single, “Don’t Feel Right” was nominated the same year for Best Rap Performance By a Duo/Group. The Roots won their first Grammy Award, Best Rap Performance By a Duo/Group, for 1999’s “You Got Me” (featuring Erykah Badu and Eve) from the album Things Fall Apart.
Today’s Roots are vocalist ‘Black Thought’ and drummer ‘?uestlove,’ long-time keyboardist Kamal Gray (a member since 1996’s Illadelph Halflife), Brooklyn-based guitarist Kirk ‘Captain Kirk’ Douglas, percussionist Frank Knuckles (both members since 2003-2004’s The Tipping Point sessions), Damon ‘Tuba Gooding Jr.’ Bryson, who joined the lineup after touring with the band in 2007 and the bands newest member Owen Biddle on bass (a producer on the 2006 Game Theory sessions, the Roots’ Def Jam debut).

TRACK LISTING
1) Walk Alone (Truck North, Porn, Dice Raw,Mercedes Martinez)
2) Dear God 2.0 (Jim James, MOF)
3) Radio Daze (Blu, Porn, Dice Raw, Mercedes Martinez)
4) Now Or Never (Phonte Coleman, Dice Raw)
5 )How I Got Over (Dice Raw)
6) The Day (Blu, Phonte Coleman, Patty Crash)
7) Right On (Joanna Newsom, Sugar Tongue Slim)
8) Doin It Again (John Legend)
9) The Fire (John Legend, Rick Friedrich)

BROOKLYN BODEGA LAUNCHES BKHIPHOPFESTIVAL.COM

BROOKLYN BODEGA LAUNCHES BKHIPHOPFESTIVAL.COM

Brooklyn, NY May 31, 2010



Brooklyn Bodega, producers of the 6th Annual Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival (BHF) is proud to announce the launch of WWW.BKHIPHOPFESTIVAL.COM.

With the launch of WWW.BKHIPHOPFESTIVAL.COM, Brooklyn Bodega offers a sleek, one stop shop for all things BHF '10 related. Information on the events calendar, ticketing, performing artists, volunteer opportunities, press requests, directions and general updates are now easily accessible for all.

"With the launch of www.bkhiphopfestival.com, fans and supporters of The Festival will have all relevant information at their fingertips. The new site will also work in conjunction with BrooklynBodega.com which will continue to provide unique content relevant to not only the event but to our patrons as a whole. Hip-Hop heads from all over the world will be able to learn about De La Soul, Curren$y and Fashawn, on BrooklynBodega.com then click over to bkhiphopfestival.com to book their hotel and purchase their ticket."

- Wes Jackson, Executive Director, The Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival

The 2010 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival features headliners De La Soul, Duck Down Records 15th Anniversary Celebration with Black Moon, Smif-N-Wessun, DJ Evil Dee, Philly's own Money Making Jam Boys, newcomers Curren$y, Fashawn, Skyzoo, and more!

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The 6th Annual Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival will run from July 5th- 10th all over the borough of Brooklyn.



Monday, July 5th - Show & Prove Finals at Brooklyn Bowl. 6 MC's compete for two opening spots on the Main Day, July 10th

Tuesday, July 6th - The Bodega Education Initiative, a day of panel discussions and seminars centered around legendary producer, J Dilla. With Q-Tip, "Ma Dukes" Yancey and more.



Wednesday, July 7th - Brooklyn Montage at Brooklyn Tech High School. A mini Film Festival featuring a variety of Hip-Hop films followed by Q&A with established and aspiring filmmakers.

Thursday, July 8th - Salute The DJ at The Hall of Williamsburg. A night dedicated to the backbone of Hip-Hop: the DJ.



Friday, July 9th is the kick-off party to formally welcome Festival goers, past and current artists and community leaders to the 6th Annual BHF.

Saturday, July 10th is the culmination of the 2010 Festival. De La Soul will headline the 6th Annual BHF on the DUMBO waterfront. The festivities kick off with Family Day, a block party for families and children celebrating Hip Hop's central message - social change and individual empowerment.

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Brooklyn Bodega is a multimedia content production and branding company. Our brand extends into event production, journalism and critical media analysis, digital and grassroots marketing, radio, video, and content distribution. While The Bodega is best known for producing New York City's largest Hip-Hop event, The Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival, our expertise also manifests in Brooklyn Bodega Radio, Bodega TV, our blogazine and online home BrooklynBodega.com, and most recently Savannah Boogie Music and Song - a digital content distributor.



The Bodega is made up of an extraordinary group of cultural programmers, marketing professionals, writers, designers and academics who have heeded their own personal call to action and have dedicated themselves to the celebration and preservation of Hip-Hop culture.



For more info on The Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival visit our Facebook page, website and follow us on Twitter.

PURCHASE TICKETS TO THE 2010 BHF HERE

Bill Cosby and Macolm-Jamal Warner Launch CAAM's "Duet and Dialogues" Series

Bill Cosby and Malcolm-Jamal Warner June 11, 2010 Launch Duets & Dialogues Series at the California African American Museum Kick-off Fundraiser to Feature Bill Cosby and Malcom Jamal Warner: A Conversation and Q & A From Television's Most Loved Father/Son Duo Program Host - KNBC-TV's Morning News Anchor Chris Schauble

Los Angeles - The California African American Museum (CAAM) has played host to some of Los Angeles' most culturally significant events over the last 30 years. From art openings to book signings to vintage film screenings, CAAM has shone a fresh perspective on the rich traditions and legacy of African American art, history and culture. On Friday, June 11, 2010, CAAM will set yet another precedent with the launch of its new series, Duets & Dialogues featuring television's most beloved father and son duo, Bill Cosby and Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Produced by Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum as a fundraiser for CAAM, this great evening will begin with dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. followed from 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. by conversation between Cosby and Warner before a general audience with a closing question and answer session. KNBC-TV's Morning News Anchor Chris Schauble will serve as program host for this special evening. A limited number of dinner/reserved seat program/post-program dessert tickets are available for $150. General admission tickets for $50.00 include program and post-program desserts. CAAM is located at 600 State Drive in Exposition Park, in Los Angeles. Parking is available at Figueroa and 39th Streets for $10 per vehicle. "We are extremely excited to have the very distinguished Bill Cosby, alongside Malcolm-Jamal Warner for the launch of our series, Duets & Dialogues," states Charmaine Jefferson, executive director of CAAM. "Our program is designed to pair African American celebrities of note and accomplishment in a setting that allows the easy flow of memories and thoughtful examinations of the present and the future. For so many of us, Cosby is a pivotal role model within the African American community and beyond. His television role as father to Theo, played by Warner on 'The Cosby Show,' continues to speak volumes to generations of sons and fathers, and Mr. Cosby regularly uses his celebrity to keep asking our young people to be all that they can be." "And then there is the extremely talented Malcolm-Jamal Warner," Ms. Jefferson continued. "We all watched Malcolm-Jamal Warner grow into an accomplished and talented young man in his own right. Whether it is his project selection as a director and actor, or the power of the messages and composition in his brand of jazz and hip-hop style music, Warner is impressive in the scope and range of his talent and human generosity....and we would have expected nothing less. We know the dialogue from this duet will be stimulating, thought provoking and entertaining." Internationally renowned comedian, actor, philanthropist and activist, William H. Cosby, Jr., Ed.D. has dazzled generations of fans with his comedy routines, iconic albums, best-selling books and the groundbreaking television hit series, "The Cosby Show." Perhaps his greatest contribution to American entertainment and culture, "The Cosby Show," portrayed a close-knit, upper class black family and dominated the #1 spot for years, earning popular and critical praise and altering the previous characterization of black families. Actor, spoken word artist, poet, composer and musician Malcolm-Jamal Warner first rose to national prominence starring in "The Cosby Show." He has continued to achieve success as an actor, but also has received accolades as a poet and bass player. A seasoned director as well, Warner directed several episodes of "The Cosby Show" along with the comedy series "Malcolm & Eddie," "All That," "Keenan & Kel," and a host of music videos. He can be heard on the audio book version of Simon & Schuster's "Fatherhood" by Bill Cosby. Warner also heads his own band Miles Long and independently distributes their CD's, "The Miles Long Mix Tape" and "Love and Other Social Issues," both of which are extremely popular in the underground music scene. Both men have recognized CAAM in the past, Cosby supported and made a performance appearance with his friend Sammy Davis, Jr. at the public opening of CAAM in its then new building back in 1984. Warner and his band Miles Long have twice headlined CAAM's once a month family performance series Target Sundays at CAAM. The California African American Museum (CAAM) researches, collects, preserves and interprets for public enrichment the history, art and culture of African Americans. In addition to Duets & Dialogues, the CAAM galleries will be open on June 11 to showcase CAAM's current exhibits which include Dance Theatre of Harlem, Forty Years of Firsts, Our Love of John T. Scott, and the Gallery of Discovery. CAAM's newest exhibition, How We Roll, will open July 22, 2010 and feature a glimpse into the African American influences in the surfing, skating and very contemporary skateboarding culture. Chartered by the California State Legislature in 1977, the California African American Museum is a state supported institution. In addition to its permanent collection, CAAM hosts specially borrowed and self-curated exhibitions, free public and school-age education programs, and tours CAAM-owned exhibitions throughout California and the nation. Admission to CAAM is generally free and open to the public, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm. Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that exists to provide resources, staffing, programming and exhibition resources in support of CAAM's mission. Net proceeds from this June 11th Duets & Dialogues program will benefit and further the collections, programs and exhibitions of the California African American Museum. Explore the California African American Museum's offerings at http://www.caamuseum.org. For general CAAM information call (213) 744-7432. This event may be captured on film for archival purposes. Attendance includes permission to be a part of this documentation process. Duets & Dialogues is produced by Friends, the Foundation of the California African American Museum. Program Director, Charles Reese/Teeth & Eyes Communications.

YouTube Video Inspires Black Youth and Parents

YOUTUBE VIDEO INSPIRES BLACK PARENTS, CHILDREN, AND COMMUNITIES

Snapshot - [Watch The Video]

Atlanta, GA (BlackNews.com) - Orrin Hudson, a motivational speaker, community activist, and chessmaster, is using YouTube to inspire Black youth to make better decisions in life through the game of chess. The professionally filmed video reveals his awe-inspiring master plan to reach 1 million youngsters in 50 states.

Hudson, who has been featured on Fox News, Good Morning America, CNN, and in People Magazine, runs a nationally-recognized non-profit organization in Atlanta, Georgia called Be Someone.

Be Someone uses numerous tools, including the game of chess, to promote self-esteem, responsibility, and analytical thinking among at-risk kids. The mission is to build character, hope, and inspiration so that kids can set and achieve lifetime goals, realize their full potential, and be someone.

Hudson comments, "This is less about chess and more about building character. Love, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, Patience, are 5 character traits that are essential to success. If we have the brightest children in the world and they don’t have character, the schools have failed them and this nation has failed them. Really Be Someone is priceless. After all it is the moral development of the whole child that will determine their success in life."

Hudson, who is a former Alabama state trooper, founded Be Someone in 2001. Since then, he's also authored a book entitled "Making Every Move Count" which refers to the belief that success in chess and success in life require the same fundamentals, including concentration, self-esteem, problem solving skills, and discipline.

To watch the inspiring YouTube video, visit:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLFENGymr34

To learn more about Be Someone, visit:

www.besomeone.org

Single Black Mom - Myth of Broken Home

BLACK SINGLE MOTHER DISPELS AMERICA'S OPINION OF THE BROKEN HOME!

Bookcover and author - April Gabrielle

San Diego, CA (BlackNews.com) -- With the recent release of her new book The Myth of the Broken Home, author April Gabrielle dispels America's opinion of the broken home! It is a guidebook for single parents, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Single parents will enjoy the candid, positive and experiential instruction as it influences them toward reaching their goals of successful parenting without buying into the stereotypes of single parenthood.

The Myth of the Broken Home will provide answers to those who are raising children against all odds, those involved in the daily grind of life refusing to forsake their children. Many single parents are raising children without the physical, financial or emotional support and The Myth of the Broken Home will help them build confidence and inner strength as they encounter the various stages of development.

"The behaviors of our children reflect our quality of parenting. Don't allow your children to be labeled as products of a broken home," Gabrielle says.

The Myth of the Broken Home is the answer to Bill Cosby's frustration expressed while addressing the audience at the NAACP's Gala to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education in Washington D.C. in 2004 with concerns about single parents in the black community. This book is the solution to responsible parenting, not only in the black community but also in all communities around America. Although there are many obstacles that African-Americans face, and ever so compellingly as single parents, those obstacles are not excuses not to parent our children. This book makes available the answers from someone who has lived the experiences and rose above the obstacles.

Enjoy the following topics and much, much more:

Dating & the Single Parent - No You Can't Bring em Home

Cherishing your Children

Whuppin's & Spankin's

Teens & Tweens

How a Single Woman Raises a Gentleman

Teaching Cultural Sensitivity

Stop Depending on the Schools to Educate Your Child

Is it Really Over with the Ex

Child Support - Don't Take it Personal

Budgeting

Dreams Deferred

Out of the Violence

Celebrating You!

Instilling Pride & Self Esteem

The author, April Gabrielle, is a San Diego native and a proud single mother of two - a son, 21, a Cellular Molecular Biology major, and a 13-year-old daughter who is an exceptional student as well. She holds a Bachelor in Business Administration, a Master of Arts in Human Behavior and completed coursework in Master of Education. April received training as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), has counseled single parents and teens, including those residing in juvenile residential detention facilities.

The Myth of the Broken Home is published by Put it on Paper Publishing, located in Chula Vista, California. For additional information, visit www.nobrokenhome.com or www.aprilgabriellebooks.com

Endyra Denim Kick Rocks

A mature and artistically evolved sentiment is the force behind the new Kick Rocks collection from Endyra Denim. This new, screen printed collection differs from past collections which had mostly hand-painted items. This makes the new pieces available at a lower price point and to a broader audience. Don’t think that this means sacrifices were made in regards to image. Though the medium is slightly different, the message remains the same. “Endyra Denim has a signature look, elaborate bold colors and contoured abstract edges. We would like to continue with our collection being as fashion forward as we can, without losing our sense of identity” says Ava,co- founder of Endyra Denim. The new collection seems to do exactly that.



These statement making pieces hold to Endyra Denim’s refined street-wear aesthetic. And the Kick Rocks message is a bold statement, in and of itself. Ava says that “The concept behind the design of this collection reflects people dealing with the peer pressure within their life; for example: teens dealing with everyday pressure of using drugs, alcohol and participating in sexual behavior. This phrase gives them a sense of empowerment, this is why we choose the ‘Kick Rocks’ design”. The phrase is a street slang that evokes a ‘get with it or get lost’ attitude. The signature stick figure design symbolizes this mind-set perfectly.



So look out for this collection and other good things from Endyra Denim. And if you’re not down with it – you can Kick Rocks.

To Order www.endyradenim.com

or email endyradenim@gmail.com

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Platinum recording artist Trina launches Amazin' Cosmetics and joins forces with The Carma Foundation

Platinum selling recording artist Katrina “Trina” Taylor, whose still reeling from the success of her 5^th album AMAZIN’ which was released on May 4^th, 2010 and debuted #1 on the Independent Billboard charts and #2 on the Billboard Rap Charts, is launching a cosmetics line this June titled Amazin’ Cosmetics. In conjunction with the launch of Amazin’ Cosmetics, Trina is joining forces with the Carma foundation for Amazing Gloss for An Amazing Cause to help raise funds to assist the orphans of Haiti devastated by the earthquake.

Trina’s “Baddest Chick” Collection includes two lines: Amazin Cosmetics and Million Dollar Girl apparel. The Amazin Cosmetic line debuted with Amazin’ Lip Wear which consists of a modern palette of vibrant lip glosses with a built in sponge applicator to give your lips an extra luscious boost of shine; Amazin’ Eyelashes which are re-usable glamorous diamond studded eyelashes that instantly give a stunning beautiful look. Each set comes with tweezers and adhesive; Finally, the Amazin’ Perfume line currently includes two fragrances Diamond Princess and Diamond Doll. Coming this fall the line will introduce a new fragrance “Pink Diamond”. Amazin cosmetics reflects Trina’s iconic presence and sex appeal as seen on stage or as she dazzles them on the red carpet. Amazin’ Cosmetics can be purchased at www.thebaddestchick.com .

Over the years, Trina has contributed greatly to various urban communities. Continuing with this same tradition, Amazin’ Cosmetics will partner with Melky Jean’s (Wycleff’s sister) Carma Foundation to assist orphans who continue to be impacted by the catastrophic event in Haiti. Trina was moved by the countless number of abandoned children left on the streets of Haiti and decided to “do something”. She pledged her support by donating a portion of the proceeds from gloss sales to assist Carma Foundation and the Mayor of Port Au Prince Haiti in restoring hope for the children of Haiti. Kicking off on June 13, 2010 in New York City, the Amazin Cosmetics line will launch the “Amazin Summer Challenge” encouraging city officials, celebrities/athletes and communities to get involved by donating Promise Packs from World Vision (www.worldvision.org) that includes hygiene products, school supplies, and to provide food and shelter for the children.

For more information on Trina, the Amazin’ cosmetics line, or how you can help contribute to the donations to the Promise Packs for the Haiti survivors, please visit: www.thebaddestchick.com ; www.carmafoundation.org .