African American Empowerment Blog (AAEB)

A Negro Explorer at the North Pole: The Autobiography of Matthew Henson

2012-01-27T07:22:00.000-08:00

When Commander Robert Peary reached the North Pole on April 6, 1909, one other American was with him—Matthew Henson, a black man from Maryland who had been Peary’s faithful companion through 22 years of polar exploration. This is Henson’s story in his own words, from his early years as a sailor to his meeting Robert Peary and their multiple expeditions to the North Pole. Filled with hair-breadth escapes from disaster and haunting evocations of life in the Arctic, this classic of exploration literature reveals Henson as the true hero of the journey, one who had been forced to accept a lower status because of his race. It was Henson who learned to speak the native tongue of the Eskimos, Henson who handled the dogs and broke the trail, and Henson who arrived first at the North Pole after being purposely left behind by Peary. New to this edition are rare articles and photos of the expedition that Henson published to set the record straight.

BlackFlix.com

2012-01-26T06:46:00.000-08:00

Blackflix.com was started as an African American alternative to the standard fare of movie reviews and web sites that impersonally and consistently overlook the contributions of Black stars, film makers, directors, writers and other Black film professionals.

Through the committed effort of the company's leaders (two award winning writers and editors) Laurence Washington and Jim Stevens, Blackflix.com has become a respected part of the entertainment community.

At Blackflix.com the vision is simple: to continue developing the best, black themed movie web site on the internet. While we do cover other entertainment information, our primary focus is on film and the black movie industry.

Source: http://www.blackflix.com

Chef Jeff Foundation

2012-01-24T17:05:00.000-08:00

Inspire troubled youth to believe they can achieve, engage them to think creatively and empower them to change the course their lives.

The Chef Jeff Foundation (TCJF) will be a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded by celebrity chef, Chef Jeff Henderson. Chef Jeff understands the importance of assisting socially challenged youth, because he was once a troubled youth himself. He found his path in life through education, culinary arts, employment opportunities, and various rehabilitation programs.

The Chef Jeff Foundation objective is to award various Unique Scholarships and fund various Unique Projects, for at-risk youth who are now on the path to making personal progress.

Scholarships

The Homey Does Better Scholarship
The David Sims Former Gang Member Scholarship
The Friendly Womack Culinary Scholarship

Projects

The Chef Jeff Bookshelf Project™
The Formerly Incarcerated Project™
The Global Youth Experience Project™
The Taste of Education Project™
The Friday Fruit Project™

Annual Fundraiser

The Chef Jeff Foundation Food and Wine Tasting will be an annual fundraiser that will fund scholarships, programs and bring awareness to the causes that will benefit America's troubled youth. The event will include an awards ceremony honoring our top corporate and individual sponsors, and scholarship recipients.

For more information, please inquire at info@chefjefffoundation.org

100 Black Men America

2012-01-23T17:12:00.000-08:00

The overall concept of the 100 began in New York in 1963 when a group of concerned African American men began to meet to explore ways of improving conditions in their community. The group eventually adopted the name, "100 Black Men, Inc." as a sign of solidarity. These men envisioned an organization that would implement programs designed to improve the quality of life for African Americans and other minorities. They also wished to ensure the future of their communities by aiming an intense number of resources toward youth development. These members were successful black men from various walks of life. These visionaries were business and industry leaders such as David Dinkins, Robert Mangum, Dr. William Hayling, Nathaniel Goldston III, Livingston Wingate, Andrew Hatcher, and Jackie Robinson.

Dr. William Hayling, a member of the NY organization, had relocated to Newark, NJ and sought to replicate the 100's impact in that area. In 1976 Dr. Hayling formed the 100 Black Men of New Jersey. A movement had been born. Men across the country began to form 100 Black Men organizations to leverage their collective talents and resources. Chapters were formed in Los Angeles, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Atlanta, San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area, Nassau/Suffolk, Alton, and Sacramento.

On September 21, 1983, a three-hour meeting was held at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C., among representatives from the Los Angeles, New York, New Jersey, and St. Louis chapters. This meeting was to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a National Organization for 100 Black Men. This meeting was held during the annual weekend meeting of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Representative of St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Atlanta, the San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area, Nassau/Suffolk and Sacramento met for a second time in Las Vegas, May 11-13, 1984, at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel. The men engaged in extensive discussions about the most effective structure to support the growth and governance of 100 Black Men chapters.

The third meeting was held May 16-18, 1986 at the Flamingo Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas. At this meeting it was agreed that the best model for a newly-formed national organization was a federation governance model. This model leveraged human and financial resources, and supported chapter growth while preserving chapter autonomy. It was also voted that a National Steering Committee would include the Presidents of each chapter, along with two members from each chapter.

A final meeting was held on October 2, 1986 at the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel in Washington. Chapters represented were: Los Angeles, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Atlanta and New Jersey. The chapters decided that the name of the organization would be: "100 Black Men of America, Inc."

The following individuals were elected as officers:

Dr. William Hayling (Los Angeles) President Moses Gray (Indianapolis) Secretary Oliver Lofton, Esq. (New Jersey) Vice-President Jesse C. Swanigan (St. Louis) Treasurer On May 27, 1987, in Atlanta, Georgia, this newly formed organization introduced itself to the nation during its first national conference. Noted speakers included the late Alex P. Haley and the late Honorable Maynard H. Jackson.

In 1989, Nathaniel R. Goldston III became the organization's second National President and grew the organization to 43 chapters. Mr. Goldston used his business acumen and resources to expand the number of chapters and enhancing the organization's infrastructure. Under Mr. Goldston, the organization acquired its first national office and its first Executive Director. Along with Mr. Goldston, Warren Valdrey (Vice President), T.B. Boyd III (Treasurer) and Moses Gray (Secretary) served as elected officers.

In 1994, Thomas W. Dortch Jr. was elected the third National President. That year, he spearheaded an aggressive plan entitled Four For The Future™. Since that time, the organization has strategically channeled its resources toward programs that support these important areas: Mentoring, Education, Health & Wellness, and Economic Development. The 100 has identified these areas as being critical to the future of African Americans.

Along with Mr. Dortch, LeRoy G. Walker, Jr. (Vice President), William L. Wimberly (Vice President), Hon. Roosevelt F. Dorn (Vice President), Lonnie J. Carr (Treasurer), and Albert E. Dotson, Jr. (Secretary). In 1997, under Mr. Dortch's leadership the organization expanded internationally with the chartering of the Birmingham, England chapter. Additional international chapters and interest groups followed including: Nassau Bahamas, Goree Island, Senegal, Kingston, Jamaica, U.S. Virgin Islands, and London, England. It was also in 1997 that the organization purchased its World Headquarters building on historic Auburn Avenue in Atlanta, Georgia. Also, during Mr. Dortch's tenure, the Collegiate 100 was formed to focus the next generation on mentoring.

In 2004, Albert E. Dotson, Jr., Esq. was elected the fourth President/Chairman of the Board and during his inaugural address he recognized the contributions of his predecessors. Dr. Hayling was acknowledged for bringing the various 100 Black Men organizations under the single banner of 100 Black Men of America. Mr. Goldston was recognized for his personal investment of talent and resources that grew the number of chapters focused on the 100’s mission. Mr. Dortch was acknowledged for expanding the organization's resources and building capacity for the 100 to carry out its mission. Chairman Dotson referred to their contributions as the Hayling Harvest, the Goldston Gain and the Dortch Dividend.

The other newly elected officers in 2004 were Curley M. Dossman, Jr. (Vice Chair Operations), Frank Hayes (Vice Chair Finance), Dr. Joshua W. Murfree, Jr. (Vice Chair Programs), John S. Kendall (Vice Chair of Operations) and Anthony B. O'Neill (Secretary). Since 2004, Chairman Dotson has focused the organization on leadership and delivering impactful and innovative programs in each of the Four For The Future areas.

During Dotson’s tenure the 100 launched the Leadership Development Institute (LDI) to provide a vehicle through which members of the 100 could fine tune and enhance their leadership skills. The 100 also created their Community Empowerment Project (CEP) which ensures that the city where the 100 convenes its Annual conference receives a social and societal impact that is sustainable by the community.

From 2006 to 2009, the 100 helped launch the National Cares Mentoring Movement (formerly Essence Cares) to mobilize millions of able African Americans to take the lead in fulfilling our society's spiritual and social responsibility to our children. The 100 expanded its focus on advocacy for responsible public policy, including sponsoring the Internationally broadcasted debate on urban issues among Presidential candidates Senator Barack H. Obama, Senator Hillary R. Clinton and Senator John Edwards. The 100 has consistently increased its resources to deliver relevant new programs and enhance signature programs. The organization is moving their mission and strategic direction forward as it implements Mentoring the 100 Way Across a Lifetime sm.

Today the organization has grown to over 116 chapters with more than 10,000 members who continue to strive to improve the quality of life in our communities and enhance the educational and economic opportunities for African Americans. 100 Black Men of America, Inc. has more than 100,000 youth participants annually in its mentoring and youth development programs. With a mission to improve the quality of life and enhance educational opportunities for African Americans, members of the 100 continue to serve as a strong force in the world by overcoming the cultural and financial obstacles that have limited the achievements of some African Americans, particularly young African American males. Members of the 100 have made outstanding progress, proving that Blacks can, and do, excel as corporate leaders, community leaders and as independent business owners.

Source: http://www.100blackmen.org/history.aspx

MC Hammer CEO of Alchemist Management

2012-01-22T16:57:00.000-08:00

Alchemist Management is a dynamic new name in the world of MMA athlete management and marketing. Capitalizing on the deep experience and professionalism of its founding executive team, Alchemist Management creates unique opportunities in sports and entertainment for its clients who include some of the most popular names in MMA.

Alchemist sets itself apart from its competition by taking a holistic view of each athlete’s life and career. Alchemist contributes to every aspect of a fighter’s life, including fight training, digital and traditional media development, cross-over industry exposure, business advisory services, corporate sponsorship development, and the ever-important, but often overlooked process of planning for a rich and fulfilling life after a final battle in the cage. Alchemist Management is based in Los Angeles, California.

The Alchemist Management founding team includes:

Legendary music icon and master of reinvention MC Hammer is CEO of Alchemist Management. Most recently, Hammer became one of the most influential personalities on the social media platform Twitter with over 1.8 million followers. Most people don’t know that Hammer has long been a force in sports; he managed Evander Holyfield to the world heavyweight boxing championship. Through his leadership, Hammer will create opportunities for Alchemist clients in sports, entertainment, and other areas. Hammer conceived of Alchemist Management to contribute to the growth and prosperity of MMA and its fighters.

MMA industry veterans Lex McMahon (President) and Nima Safapour (Vice President of Business Affairs and General Counsel) round out the company’s senior executive team. McMahon and Safapour will handle fighter management and will connect fighters with sponsors eager to get involved in the fast- growing sport. They play an integral role in running day-to-day operations for Alchemist Management.

Source: http://alchemistmgmt.com

How I Retired at 26! A Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Your Freedom and Wealth at Any Age

2012-01-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

Asha Tyson's own rise from homelessness at 17 to prominence deems her an expert on personal achievement. Now she reveals the secrets of her success by offering you an easy-to-understand blueprint that can afford you the lifestyle you always wanted.

Here Tyson examines and shatters the mold of traditional retirement ideas that reek of defeat; she demonstrates a winning and fresh philosophy that is effective for anyone at any age.

How I Retired at 26! provides an eye-opening practical process for obtaining personal, professional and financial freedom all in this one astonishing book!

With her coaching, you will learn new techniques that rid you of worry--for good! You can apply these proven principles and begin living a life that most people only talk about and dream of!

Cocoa Babies

2012-01-20T07:10:00.000-08:00

Officially launched in 2005 with 2 eye-catching designs, cornbread fed and pretty little brown girl. The idea for Cocoa Babies was born a year earlier after the line's creator was inspired to design clothing that represented a healthy alternative to the sexually explicit and otherwise inappropriate messages she found were far too commonplace in the wardrobes of our young people.

Cocoa Babies began with a focus on children's clothing and quickly expanded to include a full range of both children and adult items. Driven by the same spirit that inspired the Black Power Movement of the 1970's, Cocoa Babies has cultivated and reincarnated many times over the message that 'Black Is Beautiful'.

As we continue to take baby steps toward providing creative and stylish clothing. We hope that you enjoy and share the site with others (please)!

Contact Information

Phone:

1-888-860-8480 or 704-965-4544

Mailing Address:

Cocoa Babies

204 North Fifth Street

Suite F

Mebane, NC 27302

We are proud to provide you with the very best customer service and ensure that you enjoy a convenient shopping experience. Should you have any questions, suggestions or feedback, please feel free to reach us at orderinfo@cocoababies.com. We'd love to hear from you!

Source: http://www.cocoababies.com/

WHITE HOUSE: THE PRESIDENT & FIRST LADY SCREEN ‘RED TAILS’ w/ TUSKEGEE AIRMEN & MOVIE CAST

2012-01-20T06:51:00.000-08:00

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama greet the Tuskegee Airmen prior to a movie screening of “Red Tails” in the Family Theater of the White House, on Friday (Jan. 13, 2012).

Some of the cast was also at the screening including pictured below: (L-R) Ne-Yo, Tristan Wilds, Nate Parker, Cuba Gooding Jr, David Oyelowo, and Director Anthony Hemingway. The movie will be released on January 20 in theaters, but an exclusive seven minute clip of the movie was released earlier this week.

Source: http://concreteloop.com/2012/01/white-house-the-president-first-lady-screen-red-tails-w-tuskegee-airmen-movie-cast#more-974431

Black In Technology

2012-01-19T07:52:00.000-08:00

Blacks In Technology www.blacksintechnology.net is a community based website whose goal is to promote and encourage the use and development of technology amongst African Americans. Our podcasts are developed to spark communication, give an outlet to the African American technologist that are already thriving and succeeding in their career, as well as helping to influence the next generation of African Americans that are considering technology as a career path.

About the host:

Greg Greenlee is a Systems Administrator for a datacenter located in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a Linux enthusiast with a great passion for anything technology.

Ronnie Hash is a Systems Engineer for a book publishing company located in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a hardcore Linux guy with a passion for Information Security.

Ronnie and Greg met while attending the Ohio Linux Fest in Columbus, Ohio. Their love for technology is what inspired them to create the Blacks In Technology community website.

The Black Reel Awards

2012-01-18T05:57:00.000-08:00

The Black Reel Awards annually spotlights the best African-American performances in theatrical, independent and television films. Founded in 2000 under the leadership of Tim Gordon and Sabrina McNeal and based in the Nation’s Capital, The Black Reel Awards were created to annually honor African-Americans in the medium of film.

Originally conceived as a vehicle to recognize African-American achievement in Hollywood, the awards have been expanded to include cinematic achievement on the small screen as well as the independent filmmaking community.

During its first two years (2000-2001), The Black Reel Awards were presented online on film website, Reel Images Magazine. The show has been held at several sites in Washington, DC with the most recent ceremonies broadcast online on Blog Talk Radio.

In April 2004, The Foundation for Advancement of African-Americans in Film (The Foundation) was created to provide educational opportunities to the next generation of studio executives through its two member programs, Reel Kids and the Producer’s Institute. It is the desire of the Foundation that our programs will help train the studio executives and filmmakers that will continue to shape the images of people of color well into the 21st century.

The Black Reel Awards are annually held in February to provide an additional opportunity to spotlight African-American film achievement during the industry’s busiest and most profitable season. Since 2000, the Black Reel Awards have bestowed over 500 nominations and honored over 175 actors, filmmakers and films that continue to celebrate and salute the rich African-American cinematic heritage.

Special honors have been bestowed on Jamie Foxx (Vanguard Award), films City of God and Amandla: A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony (Foreign Film and Foreign Documentary), and special sponsor awards for our inaugural sponsors Chartered Health, Amtrak and Integrated Urban Solutions.

With the assistance of the Foundation and its growing list of corporate partners, The Black Reel Awards continues its mission to ensure that the “reel images” of people of color continues to expand in future generations.

Source: http://blackreelawards.wordpress.com/

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story

2012-01-17T06:10:00.000-08:00

In 1987, Dr. Benjamin Carson gained worldwide recognition for his part in the first successful separation of Siamese twins joined at the back of the head. The extremely complex and delicate operation, five months in the planning and twenty-two hours in the execution, involved a surgical plan that Carson helped initiate.

Carson pioneered again in a rare procedure known as hemispherectomy, giving children without hope a second chance at life through a daring operation in which he literally removed one half of their brain.

But such breakthroughs aren't unusual for Ben Carson. He's been beating the odds since he was a child.

Raised in inner-city Detroit by a mother with a third grade education, Ben lacked motivation. He had terrible grades. And a pathological temper threatened to put him in jail. But Sonya Carson convinced her son that he could make something of his life, even though everything around him said otherwise.

Trust in God, a relentless belief in his own capabilities, and sheer determination catapulted Ben from failing grades to the top of his class--and beyond to a Yale scholarship . . . the University of Michigan Medical School . . . and finally, at age 33, the directorship of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Today, Dr. Ben Carson holds twenty honorary doctorates and is the possessor of a long string of honors and awards, including the Horatio Alger Award, induction into the "Great Blacks in Wax" Museum in Baltimore, Maryland, and an invitation as Keynote Speaker at the 1997 President's National Prayer Breakfast.

Gifted Hands is the riveting story of one man's secret for success, tested against daunting odds and driven by an incredible mindset that dares to take risks. This inspiring autobiography takes you into the operating room to witness surgeries that made headlines around the world--and into the private mind of a compassionate, God-fearing physician who lives to help others. Through it all shines a humility, quick wit, and down-to-earth style that make this book one you won't easily forget. Dr. Benjamin Carson is director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. He lives with his wife, Candy, and three sons in West Friendship, Maryland.

T-Shirt: MLK and President Obama

2012-01-16T08:22:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to President Barack Obama and his family on a well run race. For whatever reason you may (or may not) have voted for Obama he is now our next and future president, we wish him the best. As he pursues his (and the American) Dream we urge you to pursue yours as well.

This victory only proves that with hard work nothing is impossible. Visit BarackObama.com for more information on our new president and his plans to move the country forward.

Dare to Dream!

Email: masproductionz@gmail.com
Phone: 651.239.7188

Source: http://www.masproductionz.com/obama/

Jay-Z to Hold Benefit Concerts at Carnegie Hall

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

Jay-Z announced on Thursday that he would give two benefit concerts at Carnegie Hall in February to raise money for college scholarships and for a United Way program aimed at reducing the dropout rate among New York City teenagers.

The concerts will be on Feb. 6 and 7 and will be the first time Jay-Z, perhaps the most successful rapper of the last 15 years, has played the hall. Most tickets will be offered privately to philanthropists and wealthy fans, and will range in price between $500 and $2,500. A few will be offered for sale to the general public on Jan. 30.

For nine years Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, has operated a foundation with his mother, Gloria Carter, that each year provides college scholarships to more than a 120 students from poor backgrounds. The foundation has distributed about $1.4 million to 750 students since 2002.

Jay-Z said he hoped the benefit concerts would raise millions of dollars for both his foundation and the United Way, which has a program working to improve graduation rates in many of the city’s most troubled public high schools.

“There was a ton of blue-collar jobs that no longer exist, and the gap is wider than ever, and the kids need to really know that and be prepared,” he said in an interview at Carnegie Hall. “To really succeed in this new America they are going to need an education. Not everyone can be entertainers and hit the lottery — that’s what I call it.”

Jay-Z rose from poverty to become a multi-billionaire who made his fortune both as a recording artist and producer, then expanded into cosmetics, clothing and sports. He also grew up in Bedford Stuyvesant when it was burdened with high crime, attended public schools of dubious quality and never graduated from high school. “My story is pretty much an anomoly,” he said

Until this year, Jay-Z has financed the foundation out of his own pocket, providing yearly scholarships of between $1,500 and $2,500 to dozens of students who have gotten into college. The foundation also pays for high school students from poor areas to visit college campuses. “All that time we were doing this pretty much on our own,” he said. “There was no fund-raising. It was all me.”

But in September, the foundation held its first fund-raiser, collecting over $1 million at a charity carnival on Pier 54. The concerts in February are intended to add more to the foundation’s budget, he said.

The rapper said he had yet to decide if there will be guest artists. But as the producer who has discovered and mentored such singers as Rihanna, Kanye West and Ne-Yo, he has a deep bench of talent to draw from if he chooses to widen the circle. He also said he will probably perform hits from past albums rather than showcase new material.

Asked about the importance of doing such a concert at Carnegie Hall, Jay-Z said concerts will mark a high point in his career. “Music is music,” he said. “If music is great it works in great venues” He laughed. “And I have great music.”

Source: http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/08/jay-z-to-hold-benefit-concerts-at-carnegie-hall/

First Class Graduates From Oprah Winfrey's School In South Africa

2012-01-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

@Oprah - Mpumi Nobiva was raised by her grandmother in a neighborhood beset by poverty and crime after her mother died of AIDS. Now one of the first to graduate from Oprah Winfrey’s school, she is headed to college in North Carolina.

Winfrey spent $40 million to give her girls a campus with computer and science labs, a library and a wellness center. None paid tuition. The students are high-achievers, often from communities where schools are struggling to overcome the legacy of apartheid.

And as the South African school year nears its end, all 72 members of the school’s first graduating class have been accepted to universities in South Africa or the United States. More than a dozen have received full scholarships.

Winfrey told her students that when you teach a girl, you teach a nation.

“The first class, my class, will prove that,” said Nobiva, 18, who will study visual and performing arts at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Winfrey will be at the school for graduation ceremonies in January, school officials said Wednesday as students gathered to reflect on their experiences over the last five years.

The school has drawn sometimes harsh attention because of the celebrity who founded it, and also because of early problems.

Students have been accused of being spoiled. Allegations that a woman employed to care for the girls in their dormitory had instead abused teens were the subject of headlines around the world. The woman was acquitted last year.

Earlier this year, a newborn born to a student at the school was found dead, again drawing international attention.

“Yes, we’ve had bad coverage,” Nobiva said. “But it has certainly made us stronger.”

Winfrey, who has visited her school often, has instilled a sense of purpose. On Wednesday, Nobiva’s classmates - aspiring doctors, accountants, engineers and lawyers - spoke of their plans to serve their communities.

“You can imagine the impact of girls with that insight going out into the universe,” Nobiva said.

Source: http://www.blacknews.com/news/first_class_graduates_oprah_winfrey_school101.shtml

NY Peace Week 2012: January 15 – 22, 2012

2012-01-14T07:41:00.000-08:00

January 15 – 22, 2012 marks the 3rd annual NY Peace Week, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s legacy of non-violence. Organized by LIFE Camp, Inc., the collective goal is to create a culture of peace throughout NYC for 7 days by hosting an event, performing an activity or simply taking one personal action toward creating inner peace and setting a positive example for youth.

2012 NY Peace Week’s theme and messaging is: #PeaceIsALIFEStyle. Youth and celebrity ambassadors will blog, tweet and post user generated content for 7 days, sharing experiences that reinforce this year’s theme and messaging.

1 Voice.

Peace Week galvanizes the efforts of entertainers, cultural icons, government leaders, educators, athletes and community based organizations to host an event or lend their voice to the message of peace. Confirmed NY Peace Week celebrity ambassadors include: Russell Simmons, Deepak Chopra, Michael Strahan, Cheryl “Salt” Wray, and more!

1.5 Million NYC Teens & Young Adults

NY Peace Week targets 18 -25 year old tech-savvy, socially active teens, college students and young adults throughout the NY Tri-State Area who are influenced by pop culture and multi-media. Via events and digital platforms, NY Peace Week will also encourage peer leadership and role modeling among this demo, for youth under age 18 who are looking to them for examples.

Erica Ford – Founder

Erica Ford is widely respected as one of the most diligent and hard working activists of her generation. Always on a mission, she is uncompromisingly dedicated to improving of the lives of Black and Latino youth and of the community-at-large. Her current service is centered on LIFE Camp, a youth-based nonprofit organization that she co-founded in 2002. Ms. Ford’s life long activism, however, began years prior and has taken her all over the world. Of her years of service, Erica offers this perspective: “This is not a job this is my LIFE, my undying love keeps me committed to my people until my glory day takes me away.”

Why Peace Week?

Homicide is the leading cause of death among NYC youth. One in ten NYC teens report not going to school because of feeling unsafe at school or on their way to school. Many NYC youth are measuring their lives in 2 – 5 year cycles, not believing that they will survive beyond the next 5 years. Proceeds from funds raised during NY Peace week will go toward summer programs and activities for NYC youth, to provide positive alternatives to youth violence and other forms of negative behavior.

Source: http://nypeaceweek.com

Phila. selects Sonia Sanchez as its first poet laureate

2012-01-13T08:57:00.000-08:00

For years, people have called her the "unofficial poet laureate of Philadelphia." Now it's official.

Sonia Sanchez, 77, poet, teacher, mentor, activist, and revered Philadelphian, will be named the city's first poet laureate by Mayor Nutter in an 11 a.m. ceremony Thursday at City Hall.

Sanchez is the author of at least 18 books of poetry, as well as plays and children's books. She has long been one of the city's most visible and active writers, readers, teachers, and activists for peace and social equality. Starting in January, she will serve for two years, with a stipend of $2,500 per year.

Contacted at home in West Philadelphia, Sanchez said she had already fielded congratulations from fellow writers Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison.

"People are saying, 'This makes sense, because people have been calling you the unofficial poet laureate for years,' " Sanchez said. "And I say, 'Well, the people are always way ahead of the government.' "

In an official statement, Nutter said he was "extremely excited" by the selection: "Poetry is an extraordinary and powerful art form, and our great city is filled with an astonishing array of poets who help us to better understand our lives. Ms. Sanchez exemplifies the role a poet can play in helping to define a city and helping its citizens discover beauty."

The position was Nutter's idea; he announced the creation of the poet laureate program on May 3, during a Sanchez reading at City Hall.

Surprisingly, for a town of such poetic activity, Philadelphia has never had a poet laureate. Many states do (but not, since 2003, Pennsylvania), as well as dozens of towns (including Harrisburg) and counties (including Bucks and Montgomery).

Over the summer, Nutter charged Gary Steuer, chief cultural officer in the Mayor's Office of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, with assembling a committee to consider candidates and determine the term and duties of the position.

Its members included novelist Lorene Cary (recently appointed to the School Reform Commission); Beth Feldman Brandt, poet and executive director of the Stockton Rush Bartol Foundation; and Gregory Corbin, executive director of the Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement. "They looked at other cities that had similar positions and how they went about the process," said Moira Baylson, deputy cultural officer.

Siobhan Riordan, president and director of the Free Library of Philadelphia and a member of the selection committee, said, "The mayor really wanted this, and our conversations around Sonia were so easy and so natural. Philadelphia is a city passionate about the things it loves, and she personifies that passion in her poetry and her teaching."

Sanchez moved to Philadelphia from New York in 1976 - "I like to tell people it was 1776," she quips - and soon became prominent in the city's political and artistic life.

Her list of honors, as long as her list of publications, includes a PEN writing award (1969), the National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship Award (1978-1979), and the American Book Award (in 1985, for Homegirls & Handgrenades).

She has also won numerous honors for her civic and community work, and for her teaching. She held the Laura Carnell chair in English at Temple from 1977 to 1999, when she retired; she is currently poet in residence at Temple.

Her poetry reflects many influences, including pop music, the blues, Beat poetry, and Japanese haiku. She is a mesmerizing, rhythmic reader, often credited as a godparent of the contemporary performance poetry movement.

Sanchez' first duty as poet laureate will be to read a poem at Nutter's second inaugural on Jan. 2. She will also select a youth poet laureate, whose term begins in July; she will be that poet's mentor. She will also engage in a variety of civic and community functions.

When her term is up in late 2013, "the position will become competitive," in Baylson's words, "although the details haven't been hashed out quite yet."

Reaction in the poetic community was uniformly delight. Kimmika Williams-Witherspoon, a poet and associate professor of urban theater at Temple and former teaching assistant of Sanchez's, said, "Sonia has always been an icon in the city, and I'm glad the city recognizes the treasure she is. It's a remarkably good choice and may help raise our profile as a literary center."

"That Philadelphia has taken this step, declaring the importance of poetry to civic life and polity, makes me very happy," said Al Filreis, professor of English at the University of Pennsylvania and faculty director of Kelly Writers House who is also a member of the selection committee. "I've lived in the city for 26 years now and have never felt our poetry to be as diversely alive as it is now."

Poet and poetry organizer Leonard Gontarek called Sanchez "a transcendent choice, since she has always spoken to the essential beauty of our city and its citizens. Let poetry occupy Philadelphia! Let it be the universal language of our diversity!"

Sanchez said that for her, "the whole point of accepting this award is on behalf of the people and this wonderful city."

"Philadelphia doesn't realize how wonderful it is."

Source: http://articles.philly.com/2011-12-28/news/30565532_1_poet-laureate-sonia-sanchez-mayor-nutter

Red Tails

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

1944. As the war in Europe continues to take its toll on Allied forces, the Pentagon brass has no recourse but to consider unorthodox options - including the untried and untested African-American pilots of the experimental Tuskegee training program. Just as the young Tuskegee men are on the brink of being shut down and shipped back home, they are given the ultimate chance to show their courage. Against all the odds, with something to prove and everything to lose, these intrepid young airmen take to the skies to fight for their country - and the fate of the free world.

Official Movie Web Site: http://www.redtails2012.com

Release Date: January 20th, 2012

Kevin Liles

2012-01-12T06:00:00.000-08:00

Kevin Liles ascent from unpaid intern to president, author, philanthropist, motivational speaker and consultant to many entertainment and political boards began in 1991 when he became an unpaid intern for Def Jam in the Mid-Atlantic region. By 1993, he had become the Mid-Atlantic Marketing Manager and by 1998, after only seven years, Liles accepted the position of President of the Def Jam Music Group. During his tenure as President, Def Jam revenues doubled to $400 million. In addition to presiding over the label’s artist roster and day-to-day business at Def Jam, Liles oversaw the diversification of the Def Jam brand, including establishing Def Jam South, Def Soul, Def Soul Classics, Roc-A-Fella and Murder Inc. He also led the brand-extension efforts and cross marketing deals that linked Def Jam's name to movies, television, DVDs, clothing, financial services, mobile content and video games. As President and CEO, Liles spearheaded Def Jam Interactive – to partner with Electronic Arts – which led to the creation of three Def Jam-branded video games and over ten different sku's. Titles such as Vendetta, Fight for New York and Icon, have sold more than 8 million units worldwide, to date. Liles recently orchestrated a new partnership with 4mm games, launched by former Rockstar game founders Jamie King and Gary Foreman. The first release, the highly anticipated Def Jam Rapstar is scheduled for early 2010.

Following the merger that created the Island/Def Jam Music Group in 2002, Kevin Liles added the title of executive vice president of Island Def Jam Music Group to his resume. Thanks to his uncanny ability to provide leadership while allowing artists the freedom to create, he has been instrumental in the success of and eventual cross-over of many artists who have made the leap from “performer” to “global brand” – Jay Z, Hoobastank, Ludacris, Sum 41, Ja Rule, LL Cool J, DMX, Kanye West, Musiq Soulchild and Ashanti.

By 2004, Liles joined Warner Music Group as Executive Vice President and by 2005; he was part of the executive team that took the company public. As the chief executive behind the implementation of WMG’s new 360-degree strategy for enhanced artist partnerships, Liles oversaw the expansion of the traditional record company role in the artist’s career. His expertise in all facets of artist relations and brand expansion allowed for successful, complete partnerships with artists in each facet of their careers - fan clubs and ticketing, endorsements and licensing, artist management, TV production and merchandising.

Throughout 2008, Liles was instrumental in assembling a coalition of like-minded entertainers who made strategic visits to swing states in the final weeks before the historic Presidential election. Liles, along with Jay-Z, Beyonce, P. Diddy, Russell Simmons & Mary J. Blige encouraged Americans to exercise their right to vote. Currently, Liles is a committee chairman on the upcoming Jay-Z & Friends “Answer The Call” Charity Concert, taking place at Madison Square Garden on September 11, 2009 and benefitting the NYC Police and Fire Widow and Children’s Benefit Fund.

Liles serves as board member/ advisor to Ogilvy & Mather diversity board, New Yorkers For Children, Junior Achievement of New York, The Executive Leadership Council, The SEED School of Maryland, Harbor Bank, and HealthCorps. He is the bestselling author of Make It Happen: the Hip Hop Generation’s Guide to Success and oversees both Kevin Liles for a Better Baltimore, which invests in the Baltimore community, and the Make It Happen Foundation, which empowers African-American youth to succeed in the business world.

Source: http://www.kevinliles.com/

Black Web Media

2012-01-11T20:59:00.000-08:00

Black Web Media was founded in 2007 with Black Web 2.0 as it’s flagship property. We are a New Media company that caters to a highly influential, tech savvy, targeted multicultural audience. Black Web Media’s main business includes producing and distributing digital content and bringing influencers together. Across-the-board our advertiser brand partnership executions are always:

Innovative: We believe real innovation and creative destruction can only come from thought diversity, we go above an beyond banner ads for our brand partners;

Engaging and Interactive: We value engaging conversations and so does our audience, in fact they are more engaged in branded content than in editorial content;

Influential and Exclusive: We weed out all the noise and clutter and connect our partners with the real influencers in the verticals we serve;

Quality not Quantity: In everything we do we believe in quality over quantity. We reach our audience authentically and organically via long-tail content that appeals to them.

Black Web Media is different than any other media company that serves our audience. We are the only company in the Multi-cultural vertical to offer engaging, interactive, digital content solutions to brands wanting to reach our targeted demographics.

Source: http://www.blackwebmedia.net

Jay-Z Is New Face Of Duracell Powermat

2012-01-10T08:08:00.000-08:00

A new baby won't stop Jay-Z from making business moves. Hova has signed a multi-year deal to become a spokesman for Duracell Powermat, reports HipHopDX.

"I believe in the future of wireless energy and I believe that Duracell Powermat is the company to bring on the revolution," said Jigga, who has also invested in the company, in a press release. "I'm partnering with Duracell Powermat because they're providing the solutions for the future."

Powermats allow you to charge wireless devices, such as smartphones, by laying them down on the mats. The Duracell Powermat is a joint venture between Powermat Technologies and Procter & Gamble's Duracell Brand.

"The Duracell Powermat joint venture merges Procter &Gamble's core expertise in consumer understanding, brand-building and go-to-market capability with Powermat's technological innovation and ability to create a best-in-class wireless charging experience," said Stassi Anastassov, President Duracell, P&G, . When we thought about bringing together representatives from best-in-class categories, Jay-Z was the natural choice to be the new face and voice of Duracell Powermat."

"Jay-Z is power personified," said Ran Poliakine, CEO of Powermat Technologies. "He inspires millions of people all over the world on a daily basis with his music and his story. There is no better face or voice that can move people to adopt a new paradigm in power delivery."

Duracell Powermats goal is to make their wireless charging technology more popular. A co-sign from an influential musical icon like Jay-Z can't hurt.

Source: http://hiphopwired.com/2012/01/10/jay-z-is-new-face-of-duracell-powermat/

Campus CEO

2012-01-09T21:30:00.000-08:00

Every year, hundreds of thousands of students in the U.S. enter college totally clueless as to their choice of a major, and even less sure about what they will do with the rest of their lives. But for a growing number of students, the financial pressures of college are far more taxing than the academic rigors of campus life. As a result, many students rely heavily on financial aid, loans, part-time jobs, strict budgets, and whatever money their parents can afford to send them. Many students take dead-end jobs with no relevance to their college programs, while others even work on a full-time basis—sacrificing grades for dollars—and unwittingly setting themselves up to become college drop-outs.

However, students don’t have to suffer through a penniless college existence, nor must they wait until after graduation to find a career and make money. Instead, they can generate income by launching their own businesses while on campus, taking advantage of the period in their lives during which any number of once-in-a-lifetime perks and resources are readily available to them. The Campus CEO walks any would-be entrepreneur through all the necessary steps to launching a profitable, campus-based business, while simultaneously achieving academic success. Regardless of major, background, or area of interest, readers of The Campus CEO will learn how to turn their academic and professional dreams into reality.

Features:

How to develop a successful business plan, secure funding, maintain a healthy balance between work and school, and manage a successful endeavor
How and where to find the many perks hidden away on college campuses
How to achieve both entrepreneurial and academic success

Dwayne McDuffie

2012-01-08T09:06:00.000-08:00

Dwayne McDuffie is best known as the co-founder and creator of Milestone Media. He is a Story Editor on the KIDS WB's Emmy Award-winning animated series STATIC SHOCK, which he co-created. He is also a Producer and Story Editor on Cartoon Network's JUSTICE LEAGUE. He is Editor-In-Chief of Milestone Media's award-winning line of comic books, managing an editorial operation which boasted the best on-time delivery record in the industry for nearly four years running and has also worked as an editor for Marvel Comics and Harvey Entertainment. As a writer, Dwayne has created or co-created more than a dozen series, including DAMAGE CONTROL, DEATHLOK II, ICON, STATIC, XOMBI, THE ROAD TO HELL and HARDWARE. He has written stories for dozens of other comics, including, SPIDER-MAN, BATMAN: LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT, THE TICK, CAPTAIN MARVEL, AVENGERS SPOTLIGHT, BACK TO THE FUTURE, HELLRAISER, ULTRAMAN, (The Artist Formerly Known As) PRINCE and X-O MANOWAR.

Dwayne won the 2003 HUMANITAS PRIZE for "Jimmy," a STATIC SHOCK script about gun violence in schools. He has been nominated for two EMMY AWARDS for the TV series STATIC SHOCK, a WRITERS GUILD AWARD for the TV series JUSTICE LEAGUE and three EISNER AWARDS for his work in comic books. His comic book work has won eleven PARENTS' CHOICE AWARDS, six "Best Editor" awards, and a GOLDEN APPLE AWARD for his "use of popular art to promote and enhance human dignity."

Dwayne was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and attended The Roeper School. Before entering comics, he studied in undergraduate and graduate programs at The University of Michigan, then attended film school at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. He also co-hosted a radio comedy program, while moonlighting pseudonymously as a freelance writer for stand-up comedians and late-night television comedy programs. He has written scripts for an animated feature, episodes of BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE, STATIC SHOCK!, JUSTICE LEAGUE, WHAT'S NEW, SCOOBY-DOO? and TEEN TITANS.

Source: http://dwaynemcduffie.com/about/bio/index.php

NewMe Accelerator

2012-01-07T21:21:00.000-08:00

NewME (short for New Media Entrepreneurship) started in 2010 with a conference in Washington DC that gathered some of the brightest minority led start-ups, seasoned business leaders, venture capital stakeholders and key government officials from the SBA, FCC, and NTIA (DOC). Our goals were to:

Foster ideas and best practices to provide minority entrepreneurs with opportunities and platforms to freely explore, create, and innovate in ways that will spur new growth and participation in the free market;
Formulate an action plan to increase the number of successful minority new media ventures; and
Develop a policy framework for advancing and stimulating the growth and sustainability of minority new media start-ups.

Bring a confluence of individuals together to move the Internet economy in a more diverse and inclusive direction.

We learned so much from the day and a half conference! By bringing together these individuals we were able to hear from entrepreneurs, the venture capital community, and government to try create real solutions. The NewME Accelerator is a product of that gathering and launched Spring 2011 in Silicon Valley.

And now for the WHY….

Only 1% of Internet start-ups founders are African-American and we want to….

Increase exposure to talent,
Connect founders to access of early stage capital,
Provide mentorship from qualified individuals,
Collaborate and build successful companies in the heart of Silicon Valley,
And most importantly, we want to…

MAKE HISTORY

It’s not going to be easy (but nothing is) and the life-cycle starts here.

Source: http://www.newmeaccelerator.com/

Dr. Randal Pinkett

2012-01-06T11:52:00.000-08:00

Dr. Randal Pinkett has established himself as an entrepreneur, speaker, author, scholar and community servant. He is the co-founder, chairman and CEO of BCT Partners, a multimillion dollar management, technology and policy consulting firm based in Newark, NJ. BCT Partners works with corporations, government agencies and nonprofit organizations in the areas of housing and community development, economic development, human services, government, healthcare and education. A partial list of BCT's clients includes: Johnson & Johnson, Ford Foundation, Pfizer, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Hewlett-Packard, Annie E. Casey Foundation and Microsoft.

Prior to founding BCT Partners, Dr. Pinkett obtained corporate experience as a Member of Technical Staff at General Electric, AT&T Bell Laboratories and Lucent Technologies. A "serial entrepreneur", he also previously launched four socially responsible business ventures. First, Dr. Pinkett co-founded MBS Enterprises, selling compact discs and cassette tapes out of his dormitory in college and using the proceeds to fund high school outreach activities. MBS later evolved into his second venture, MBS Educational Services & Training, a firm committed to providing the highest caliber training and development for emerging and seasoned professionals. MBS's past clients include General Motors, the United Negro College Fund, Exxon, National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME), Merck & Company, Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund, Johnson & Johnson, PNC Bank, Citigroup and Corning Incorporated. Third, Dr. Pinkett co-founded the Inner City Consulting Group, a multi-disciplinary consulting firm that specialized in the unique needs of inner city communities. Fourth, in affiliation with One Economy, Dr. Pinkett co-founded Access One Corporation, with a mission to ensure that affordable housing was equipped for the 21st century by implementing innovative, sustainable, broadband network and telecommunications solutions. BCT Partners represents his fifth and latest business venture, whereas across all five of his companies and to this day, Dr. Pinkett has maintained a relationship as business partners with his close friends and college classmates, Mr. Lawrence Hibbert, BCT's Chief President; Mr. Dallas Grundy, former BCT Chief Operating Officer; and Dr. Jeffrey Robinson, Chair of BCT's Advisory Board and Professor at New York University (NYU).

A sought after public speaker for corporate, youth and community groups, Dr. Pinkett has been featured on nationally televised programs such as The Today Show, Live with Regis and Kelly, and CNN, as well as featured in Parade magazine, The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Boston Globe. He was the Season 4 Winner of NBC's hit reality television The Apprentice with Donald Trump. He served as an executive with Trump Entertainment Resorts in Atlantic City, NJ, where he was responsible for overseeing both renovation and information technology projects. He has re-appeared on The Apprentice as a boardroom advisor and is a regular segment host for CEO EXCHANGE on PBS. He is a Leadership New Jersey (LNJ) Fellow, a Next Generation Leadership (NGL) Fellow of the Rockefeller Foundation, and is a recipient of the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Graduate Fellowship, Lucent Technologies Cooperative Research Fellowship Program (CRFP), University of Oxford Graduate Scholarship, National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) National Member of the Year, Top 20 Scholars by USA TODAY newspaper, NCAA Academic All-American, NCAA Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship, New Jersey Martin Luther King Commemorative Commission Triumph Award, and the MIT Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Award, from among a host of other recognitions and accolades. He is a proud brand ambassador for Verizon Communications, Outback Steakhouse, and the Miller Urban Entreprenuers Series.

Dr. Pinkett holds five academic degrees including the following: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, that he completed with a 3.9 GPA while serving as President of MEET, the Rutgers Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and Captain of the Rutgers University Varsity Men's Track and Field team competing as a high jumper and long jumper; Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Computer Science from Oxford University, England as a Rhodes Scholar; Master of Science (S.M.) in Electrical Engineering from the MIT School of Engineering and Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from the MIT Sloan School of Management as a participant in the MIT Leaders for Global Operations (LGO) Program; and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the MIT Media Laboratory. Most notably, Dr. Pinkett made history as the first African-American ever to receive a Rhodes Scholarship at Rutgers University.

A published writer and academic scholar, Dr. Pinkett's first book, Campus CEO: The Student Entrepreneur's Guide to Launching a Multimillion-Dollar Business, was released in February 2007. That same year he also released the audio book, The No-Money Down CEO: How to Start Your Dream Business with Little or No Cash. In addition to more than 20 papers and articles Dr. Pinkett has authored chapters in five books including: Managing IT/Community Partnerships in the 21st Century; Journey to the Ph.D.: How to Navigate the Process as African-Americans; Community Practice in the Network Society: Local Action/Global Interaction; The Network Society: A Cross-cultural Perspective; and Universal Usability: Designing Computer Interfaces for Diverse User Populations. His master's thesis at the University of Oxford was entitled, "Hardware/Software Co-Design and Digital Speech Processing". His master's thesis at MIT was entitled, "Product Development Process Modeling and Analysis of Digital Wireless Telephones." His doctoral dissertation at MIT was entitled, "Creating Community Connections: Sociocultural Constructionism and an Asset-Based Approach to Community Technology and Community Building in a Low-Income Community." Lastly, he is currently co-authoring a book with his Rutgers roommate and business partner, Dr. Jeffrey Robinson, tentatively entitled, Black Faces in White Places, which chronicles their experiences as African Americans who have successfully navigagted predominantly white institutions.

Dr. Pinkett maintains an active involvement in community service. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF), and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). He is a national spokesperson for Autism Speaks, the National Black MBA Association (Gold Key Access events), New Jersey Reads ("Change a Life Through Literacy" campaign) and Junior Achievement of New York (Groundhog Job Shadow Day program). BCT Partners does considerable work with community-based organizations; his doctoral dissertation at MIT examined the role of high technology in improving the quality of life for low-income residents. He is also a member of the Board of Directors for the New Jersey Public Policy Research Institute (NJPPRI), the Nonprofit Technology Enterprise Network (N-TEN) and the Institute for Innovation in Government Technology (IIGT) and a member of the Board of Advisors for the Community Technology Centers' Network (CTCNet).

Born in Philadelphia, PA, as the son of the Late Leslie Pinkett and Elizabeth Pinkett, and raised in East Windsor, NJ, along with his brother, Dan, a manager at Prudential Insurance Company, he currently resides in New Jersey, where he is happily married to Zahara Wadud-Pinkett, a Senior Alumni Relations Officer at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. They are both proud parents of their daughter, Amira Leslie. Dr. Pinkett is an active member of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in New Jersey, and firmly believes that "for those to whom much is given, much is expected."

Source: http://www.randalpinkett.com

The Truth Shall Make You Rich: The New Road Map to Radical Prosperity

2012-01-05T11:20:00.000-08:00

The bestselling author of Reallionaire challenges common misconceptions about success and lays out the road map to a richer life

Raised in the impoverished south side of Chicago, Farrah Gray defied the odds and became a millionaire by age fourteen. He was the youngest person to have an office on Wall Street, and the youngest to receive an honorary doctorate. Now, at 24, he is an inspiration to millions and the bestselling author of Reallionaire, #1 Essence Bestseller.

In The Truth Shall Make You Rich, Gray shares the secret to his success: an emphatic rejection of the seven fallacies most people believe about money and success: the Born Lucky Lie, the Celebrity Lie, the Money Lie, the Debt Lie, the Google and Gates Lie, the Wall Street Lie, and the Work-Hard Lie. By revealing the truth behind the myths, Gray empowers readers to blaze their own paths and make their own millions.