Serena Williams Dating Rapper Common

Rapper Lil Wayne has been arrested in southwestern Arizona on three felony drug charges.Lil Wayne, whose real name is Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., is being held at the Yuma County Jail in Yuma.FULL ARTICLE AT NBC5i.COM

Tracy Morgan gets NAILED

 

The plot follows a naive waitress, Alice, who is shot in the head with a nail. The injury causes her behavior to be erratic and outrageous (the IMDb says it causes her to become a sexually adventurous bombshell), and she heads to Washington to campaign on behalf of better health care for the freakishly injured. She ends up falling for a young and clueless new congressman, who must summon up his political courage to save her. Biel plays the waitress, Gyllenhaal the congressman. Keener will be playing a self-serving congresswoman, and Marsden the small-town boyfriend of Alice. Hopefully he’s not the one who shot her with a nail. Morgan’s character has yet to be decided.

Sutton, GIbson form a LEGION

 

SYNOPSIS: When God loses faith in humanity and sends his legion of angels to take care of business on Earth, humankind’s hope lies in a group of misfits holed up in a desert diner — where the archangel Michael happens to be as well.

Nate Parker in BLOOD DONE SIGN MY NAME

 

"Fugitive" scribe Jeb Stuart will direct and Nate Parker will star in "Blood Done Sign My Name."

The film will be based on the true story of a black Vietnam veteran allegedly murdered by a white businessman and a young teacher’s role in the civil unrest that followed.

Stuart adapted the screenplay from Duke University professor Tim Tyson’s book. Parker, who most recently starred in "The Great Debaters," will play a teacher who emerged as a leader after an Oxford, N.C., businessman was exonerated in the 1970 killing.

Real Folk Prods.’ Stuart and wife Mari Stuart will produce with Mel Efros. The independently financed production will be filmed in North Carolina in May and June.

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Procedures for Ethnic Patients Rise

Almost a quarter (2,626,700) of cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed on ethnic patients in 2007, up 13 percent from last year, including Hispanics, African Americans and Asian Americans, according to statistics released today by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Since 2006, cosmetic plastic surgery procedures increased in the following demographic categories: up 8 percent (1,011,000) in Hispanics, up 8 percent (847,800) in African Americans, and up 26 percent (767,800) in Asian Americans. “A key take-away from this data is that the plastic surgery patient profile is changing,” said ASPS President Richard A. D’Amico, MD. “The majority of patients remain Caucasian women, but it is noteworthy that cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed on almost as many Hispanic patients as male patients.” Increases in these demographic categories are considerably higher when compared to ASPS data from 2000. Cosmetic plastic surgery procedures increased 173 percent in Hispanics, 129 percent in African Americans, and 246 percent in Asian Americans. The most commonly requested surgical procedures for ethnic patients are consistent with last year. African-American patients requested nose reshaping, liposuction and breast reduction; Asian-American patients requested nose reshaping, breast augmentation and eyelid surgery; Hispanic patients requested breast augmentation, nose reshaping and liposuction. ASPS procedural statistics are collected through the first online national database for plastic surgery procedures, Tracking Operations and Outcomes for Plastic Surgeons (TOPS). This data, combined with an annual survey sent to American Board of Medical Specialties certified physicians most likely to perform plastic surgery, results in the most comprehensive census on plastic surgery procedures. To view the entire 2007 National Clearinghouse of Plastic Surgery Report, visit the ASPS web site, http://www.plasticsurgery.org. Visitors can also find information on procedures and referrals to ASPS Member Surgeons.

African-Americans Account for Nearly One-Fifth of U.S. Diabetes Population

Nearly 3 million African-Americans are estimated to be diabetic, representing 17 percent of all diabetes patients in the United States; and this figure is growing as the proportion of African-American patients diagnosed with diabetes consistently increases year to year, according to new research from GfK Market Measures’ Roper Global Diabetes Group.

A new study of the diabetes market suggests that African-American patients are being diagnosed at higher rate than other patients. According to GfK Market Measures’ Roper Global Diabetes Group’s 2007 U.S. Diabetes Patient Market Study, 14 percent of African-American diabetes patients were diagnosed with diabetes within the past 12 months compared to 8 percent of other patients.

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Columbia Records Announces Tye Tribbett & G.A Live Album

Columbia Records will release StandOUT, the much anticipated new album from the contemporary gospel singer/songwriter/performer Tye Tribbett and his gospel choir and musical ensemble, G.A. (Greater Anointing), on Tuesday, May 6. StandOUT is the first new full-length album from Tye Tribbett and G.A. since the groundbreaking gospel artist’s Victory Live! entered the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart at #1, shortly following its release in May 2006.

A DVD edition of Victory Live! has sold more than 40,000 copies. A crossover success featuring the #1 Gospel Radio single, “Victory,” Victory Live! hit #64 on the Billboard Top 200 best-selling albums chart while earning Tribbett two Stellar Awards and three Grammy nominations — Best Gospel Performance (“Victory”); Best Gospel Song (“Victory”); and Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album. Recorded live at Rock Church International in Virginia Beach on August 17, 2007, StandOUT premieres a group of new musical testimonies to the Power of the Word and the Glory of the Holy Spirit, each written or co-written by Tye Tribbett: “Stand Out,” “Hold On,” “Look Up,” “I Need You,” “Prodigal Son,” “All Hail The King,” “Hallelujah,” “Let Us Worship,” “So Amazing,” “He Has Made Me Glad,” “I Made It Through,” “Chasing After You,” and “Well Done.”

As an added blessing for Tribbett fans, StandOUT includes the hidden bonus track, the single “Good In The Hood.” Tye Tribbett, a co-host, along with Kirk Franklin and Mary Mary, at the 22nd Annual Stellar Awards ceremony, and G.A. have performed with a variety of pop and gospel superstars ranging from Justin Timberlake and Faith Hill to Mary J. Blige, Donnie McClurkin, Kim Burrell and Israel Houghton.

Tye Tribbett sponsored his second annual youth conference earlier this year in the Poconos, with more than 1,000 attending. He will be performing at this year’s Essence Festival in New Orleans. Born in Camden, New Jersey, Tye Tribbett is the son of two preachers … both his mother and father wore the cloth … and Tye himself, a loving husband and father of two daughters, has responded to the Call, going on to minister through his music and the Living Word.

Growing up surrounded by hymns and gospel music, Tye learned to make music at an early age. “I’ve been playing all my life,” he explains. “Before I knew my ABC’s, I knew the ABC’s on the keys.” As a teenager, he honed his skills as a keyboardist by accompanying such regional notables as Steve Middleton, the late James Viner and the Tri-State Mass Choir of the Edwin Hawkins Music & Arts Seminar. In 1996, Tye founded a gospel choir, Greater Anointing (G.A.), consisting of a group of family and friends whose hearts were set simply on praising the Creator through the gift of great music.

Tye knew from the beginning they’d tapped into something real and glorious. “That first rehearsal blew my mind,” he says. “The musicianship, the quality of the voices and the spirit of the choir, the character of everybody … I knew that this was it. I knew that this is what I was supposed to be doing.”

The Untold History of Post-Civil War ‘Neoslavery’

In Slavery by Another Name, Douglas Blackmon of the Wall Street Journal argues that slavery did not end in the United States with the Emancipation Proclamation in 1862. He writes that it continued for another 80 years, in what he calls an “Age of Neoslavery.”READ THE EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Celebrates Golden Anniversary

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT) announced the 18-month commemoration of its 50th anniversary, including events, promotions, collaborations and special performances at The Joan Weill Center for Dance today. The organization also announced plans to celebrate the official anniversary date Sunday, March 30 with faith-based organizations, in honor of the spiritual heritage of founder Alvin Ailey’s youth. This legacy remains at the core of the organization and its unique preservation of the African American cultural experience. The Sunday celebrations will take place in nearly 40 churches and other faith-based organizations across New York City. Festivities include dedicating a portion of the services to honoring the Ailey legacy, with choirs singing spirituals from Alvin Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations, and dance ministries performing works inspired by the beauty and humanity of AAADT. Ms. Jamison’s hometown church in Philadelphia, as well as Mr. Ailey’s childhood church in Rogers, Texas, will also mark the occasion. “With the spirit and passion of Alvin Ailey in our hearts and a solid foundation for the future in our hands, we are excited to embark on 18 months of celebrations, all honoring Mr. Ailey’s dream and the organization’s core mission that inspires and unites people of all backgrounds through the universal language of dance,” said Artistic Director Judith Jamison. AAADT also announced that it will enhance its traditional season of performances with special appearances at Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), and with free performances in all five boroughs of New York City. Details and images were unveiled for special commemorative merchandise with partners such as Hallmark, Mattel, Movado, Chronicle Books and Target. Additionally, the Company shared plans for its annual New York City Center performances and U.S. tour that will include exciting collaborations with noted artists Wynton Marsalis and The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and Sweet Honey in the Rock. Executive Director Sharon Gersten Luckman announced significant contributions that have helped the organization surpass its initial goal of raising the endowment to $50 million for the 50th anniversary. Campaign Co-chairs Joan and Sandy Weill anchored the campaign with challenge gifts totaling $15 million. The Weills were joined by campaign co-chairs Simin and Herb Allison. AAADT received major gifts of $1 million or more from the Allisons and the following: Kathryn and Kenneth Chenault; The Ford Foundation; Guido Goldman; The Prudential Foundation; John Schaefer and Pamela Zilly; and the Judy and Fred Wilpon Family Foundation. A $6 million pledge from Los Angeles-based dance enthusiast Glorya Kaufman pushed the endowment to $55 million, and over its initial goal. “The visionary leadership of Judith Jamison and the incredible support of Ailey’s Board of Trustees have guided the organization to great heights,” said Ms. Luckman. “We are entering this anniversary season with much to celebrate now, and as we look to the future we will continue to build our endowment — the key to the success of our performances, vital training programs and innovative Arts In Education and Community Programs.” Distinguished artist David Michalek (Slow Dancing, 2006) was in attendance to unveil Goldenly, a special video art installation of the Company’s dancers, which will be on display along the ground floor windows of the 9th Avenue side of AAADT’s headquarters on 55th street throughout the 50th anniversary celebration. The Company also premiered a short film, entitled Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at 50 – A Golden Anniversary Celebration that commemorates the rich history of this internationally renowned dance company. Beginning with the unique and revolutionary vision of Alvin Ailey and continuing with the triumphs of the company under the directorship of Judith Jamison, this film illustrates the growth of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater from its now fabled first performance in March 1958, to the building of the largest facility dedicated to dance in the United States and its current status as America’s cultural ambassador to the world. The anniversary celebration included special performances of excerpts from Alvin Ailey’s groundbreaking ballet Blues Suite (1958) and the acclaimed masterpiece Revelations (1960) with members of AAADT, Ailey II and students from The Ailey School. It was the performance of Blues Suite at the 92nd Street YMHA in New York City that launched the Company in 1958 and forever changed the perception of American dance. “I have personally witnessed the universal impact that Ailey’s artistry and humanity has on audiences abroad,” stated Joan Weill, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, during her speech. “Sandy and I have joined the company in countries such as China, Russia and France, and the dancers never fail to inspire and proudly represent the people of the U.S. and what we’re about.” Over five decades, AAADT has performed in 71 countries on six continents, becoming not only the most-traveled dance company in the world, but a cherished cultural ambassador. At today’s launch event, this title became official, as a congressional resolution was announced calling AAADT a ‘vital American Cultural Ambassador to the World.’ Representative Jerrold Nadler (NY), along with New York Senators Hillary Clinton and Charles Schumer, sponsored the resolution. “The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is a cultural treasure not just for New York City, but for the entire country,” said Rep. Nadler. “AAADT is rightfully recognized as one of the world’s premier modern dance companies. I applaud them on their 50th anniversary and look forward to their continuing contributions to the world of dance.” Major support for the underwriting of Ailey’s 50th Anniversary Launch Event provided by The Wachovia Foundation. Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation gratefully acknowledges the following supporters of Ailey’s special initiatives and events during the 50th Anniversary: Bloomberg, Target, MetLife Foundation, Movado, The Booth Ferris Foundation and Diageo. The Ailey organization extends its sincere appreciation to: Prudential, Time Warner, New York State Council on the Arts, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and National Endowment for the Arts. For more information on Ailey and the Company’s 50th anniversary, please visit http://www.alvinailey.org.

MTV Celebrates the Most Influential Music Television Series of All Time

That’s right — we’re saying it — the most influential music television series of all time! MTV is celebrating the 20th anniversary of “Yo! MTV Raps” with a month-long campaign starting April 1st. In honor of the series that helped bring “Hip-Hop” to the global masses, MTV, MTV2, MTV Tr3s, MTV Jams, MTV Hits, MTV Mobile, MTV Radio and MTV On Demand will all be featuring both new and old “Yo! MTV Raps” programming.

In addition, MTV.com will be launching a new “Yo! MTV Raps” retrospective hub, showcasing some of the most memorable moments from the 20-year history of the show, as well as the newly created content from the month-long celebration.

Also, think.mtv.com will launch a new hub to demonstrate how Yo! MTV icons like KRS-ONE and Chuck D as well as some of today’s musical icons such as Common and Jay-Z are using the power of hip-hop to mobilize a social movement around the issues that permeate their music: racism, injustice, violence and lack of opportunity.

All of it will prove that “Yo! MTV Raps” is the most influential music television series of all time! Disagree? Got another opinion?? Good! We have something just for the media. Join us as we present the “Yo! MTV Raps” LIVE media roundtable in April on MTVPress.com where we will debate if “Yo! MTV Raps” is in fact the most influential music series of all-time.

Hosted by MTV News’ Sway Calloway, the roundtable discussion will also address the history of hip hop, the current state of the culture, and of course, the influence of “Yo! MTV Raps.” Featured participants include:

– “Yo! MTV Raps” hosts Fab Five Freddy, Ed Lover and Doctor Dre.

– Nelson George, music and culture journalist and filmmaker.

– Elliott Wilson, former XXL Editor in Chief

To watch the live debate, visit http://www.mtvpress.com. Have a question for a panel? Great! Submit it here http://mtvpress.com/contacts/form by Friday, April 4th. Please place “Yo!” in the subject line and be sure to include your email and name of your media outlet. We will try to use as many submitted questions as possible.

“Yo! MTV Raps” programming includes:

>> Yo! MTV Raps — All month long (Tues, Weds, Thurs) at 4:30pm ET/PT On-air on MTV’s “Sucker Free” officially becomes “Yo! MTV Raps” for the month featuring the current hip hop video countdown, as well as memorable moments from Yo!, classic videos, and well as segments from MTV News.

>> Yo! Countdown Shows — April 28th, 29th and 30th at 4:30pm ET/PT For the month we will be counting down the best Yo! moments, music videos, episodes and Yo! artists Then & Now.

About the Yo! MTV Raps Countdown Specials

Yo! MTV Raps Top 20 Videos: The greatest hip-hop show of all time is back, with DJ Cipha Sounds counting down the best videos in

Yo! MTV Raps history with exclusive commentary from original Yo! hosts Fab Five Freddy, Ed Lover and Doctor Dre. See classic videos from LL Cool J, Tupac, Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre and more.

Yo! MTV Raps Top Artists Then and Now: DJ Cipha Sounds and original Yo! host Fab Five Freddy present the 20 hip-hop stars with the most longevity, from Jay-Z to Queen Latifah to Will Smith and exclusive commentary from favorite stars of today.

Yo! MTV Raps Top 10 Episodes: DJ Cipha Sounds counts down the top 10 Yo! episodes from Yo!’s international trips, to legendary appearances from Diddy, Notorious B.I.G., N.W.A. and more. Includes behind the scenes commentary from original Yo! hosts Fab Five Freddy, Ed Lover, Doctor Dre and T – Money.

Yo! MTV Raps Top 20 Moments: DJ Cipha Sounds and original Yo! host Fab Five Freddy count down the top 20 moments in Yo! MTV Raps history, from the Ed Lover dance, to Run DMC’s greatest hits performance and more …

Combs Settles Flame-Smacking Suit

Diddy apparently didn’t want to dillydally with a trial. 
Sean Combs has settled a lawsuit brought against him by a Los Angeles man who claims the hip-hop multihyphenate slugged him following a post-Oscars bash last year in Hollywood, according to paperwork filed Friday in L.A. Superior Court. FULL ARTICLE AT PEOPLE.COM

Tiger Woods’ Drive Takes Him to the Moon With New Gatorade Tiger

One small step for Tiger Woods’ golf game has proven time and again to be a giant leap for the world of sports. To celebrate Woods’ latest leap — the launch of Gatorade Tiger(R) — PepsiCo’s (PEP) Gatorade brand will take his out of this world golf game to the moon with a comprehensive integrated marketing campaign that includes television and print advertising, digital communications, retail displays, promotions, sampling and cause-related marketing initiatives.

The campaign kicks off with a TV spot featuring Woods clad in an astronaut suit and also includes a promotion featuring an “out of this world” prize package to be revealed online in late April. Gatorade Tiger provides advanced hydration to fuel athletic performance and captures the unique qualities of Woods, who currently holds 64 wins on the PGA tour and is arguably the best golfer on the planet.

“I’ve experienced a lot of amazing moments in my golf career, but Gatorade Tiger is taking me someplace I never imagined with this campaign,” said Tiger Woods. “I’m really excited about how this launch has come together because it brings to life that I’m always thinking about taking my game to the next level.” Woods has used Gatorade Thirst Quencher throughout his career and began drinking Gatorade Tiger on course and in his training last December.

His signature sports drink is now available nationwide in three new and refreshing flavors inspired and selected by Woods — Red Drive(TM) (Cherry blend), Cool Fusion(TM) (Citrus blend) and Quiet Storm(TM) (Grape blend). Packaging includes a new 500 ml (16.9 oz) bottle and a 32oz bottle. Gatorade Tiger provides the same carbohydrate energy to fuel muscles as Gatorade Thirst Quencher and contains 25 percent more electrolytes to advance fluid and electrolyte replacement.

Decades of scientific research shows that proper hydration helps athletes stay on top of their game, both physically and mentally. “Tiger Woods is known for revolutionizing the game of golf by introducing an unprecedented level of fitness, training and focus,” said Matt Knott, vice president of marketing for Gatorade. “Tiger is always striving to improve and we are excited Gatorade Tiger can help fuel his march toward history while also fueling and inspiring other athletes to elevate their game.”

Taking a cue from the advertising campaign, Gatorade Tiger will offer consumers an opportunity to take their game to the next level by participating in online and experiential promotions. Beginning in late April, visitors to http://www.gatorade.com can play virtual golf on the moon and enter an online sweepstakes to win one of two “out of this world” grand prizes.

Additionally, from late April through May, the “Gatorade Tiger Longest Drive Challenge” will visit five cities across the U. S. — Phoenix, Dallas, Chicago, Miami and New York — to offer consumers an opportunity to test their virtual golf skills. The Gatorade Tiger golf simulator competitions will culminate with a national championship event in New York City in late May where the golfer with the longest drive will win the other grand prize.

As part of PepsiCo’s Performance with Purpose commitment to the communities it serves, Gatorade will donate $100,000 to the Tiger Woods Foundation on behalf of fans who register for the online sweepstakes or participate in one of the five “Gatorade Tiger Longest Drive Challenge” events. The Tiger Woods Foundation has reached 10 million young people through character development programs, scholarships, grants, junior golf teams, and the Tiger Woods Learning Center.

Gatorade Tiger is the first product to launch as a result of the recently announced collaboration between Tiger Woods and Gatorade to develop Tiger-inspired sports performance beverages for athletes at all levels. As a first step in the relationship, Tiger underwent sweat analysis testing with the Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI) showcasing his dedication to this collaboration and to improving every aspect of his training and competition.

The in-depth scientific testing conducted by scientists from GSSI was designed to shape Woods’ own specialized hydration and nutrition strategy. GSSI scientists measured Woods’ sweat rate, sweat electrolyte concentration, and fluid and electrolyte balance while outlining his energy needs during a vigorous round of exercise.

African Americans at Risk for Low Calcium Intake

A new survey has found that 63% of African Americans who experience stomach discomfort from eating dairy are likely to reduce or stop drinking milk or consuming dairy-rich products leaving them at risk for low calcium intake(1). However, those who are lactose intolerant suffer uncomfortable side effects when consuming dairy products. Celebrity chef and restaurateur Delilah Winder joins LACTAID(R) Milk, the nation’s #1 lactose-free milk brand, to help educate lactose intolerance sufferers about easy solutions for their symptoms that won’t leave them at risk for inadequate calcium intake. “As a chef who is lactose intolerant testing all the food I prepared was somewhat of a challenge — lactose intolerance can turn a perfect meal into a terrible memory,” said Winder. “I found that I couldn’t even enjoy my favorite dishes anymore. Discovering LACTAID(R) Milk and LACTAID(R) Fast Act Dietary Supplements helped me bring my award winning macaroni and cheese and all of my favorite dishes back to my table to enjoy with my friends and family.” People who are lactose intolerant — a condition where the body is deficient in the lactase enzyme which breaks down lactose, the milk sugar in dairy foods and beverages — often avoid dairy products altogether. This omission can lead to potential deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D resulting in loss of bone density, which may lead to conditions such as osteoporosis later on in life. Because the prevalence of lactose intolerance is high for African Americans — nearly 80% of the African American population suffers from this condition(2) — it is important that this population understands this condition and the options available for managing it. Products like LACTAID(R) Milk and LACTAID(R) Fast Act Dietary Supplements offer an easy and effective solution to lactose intolerance sufferers.

Paper: Skit featured student playing Obama in blackface

North Dakota State University is investigating complaints about a campus skit in which a white student in blackface portrayed Barack Obama receiving a lap dance.FULL ARTICLE AT CNN.COM

Spike Lee Honored With Sixth Annual Chrysler Behind the Lens Award

Spike Lee, one of the most influential figures in contemporary cinema, became the sixth recipient Wednesday of the Chrysler LLC Behind the Lens Award. Some 400 guests attended the award ceremony at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California in recognition of the outstanding achievements of the director of such groundbreaking films as “Jungle Fever,” “Do The Right Thing” and “Malcolm X”; who helped launch the big-screen careers of Halle Berry, Samuel L. Jackson and John Turturro, as well as numerous other actors, filmmakers and craftspeople. “Spike Lee epitomizes the ideal of the Behind the Lens Award,” Frank Fountain, Chrysler LLC Senior Vice President – External Affairs and Public Policy, said. “His thoughtful films and activism in Hollywood have inspired a generation of filmmakers, encouraged actors, challenged basic assumptions and expanded the field to include many more African-Americans in key roles behind the lens. We are thrilled to have him as the award’s latest honoree and to celebrate his commitment and passion.” In addition to the award, The Chrysler Foundation will donate $25,000 to Lee’s alma mater, Morehouse College in Atlanta, in recognition of his accomplishments. The donation will benefit the Morehouse College School of Sports Journalism, a program created to expand the field of sports journalism for African-American students. The program, which began with seed money donated by Lee, launched its first course offerings in January 2007. Lee, who received his bachelor’s degree in 1979, is a third-generation Morehouse graduate and now serves on the school’s board of trustees. To date, his efforts have raised more than $1 million to benefit the program. Hosted by CNN anchor and special correspondent Soledad O’Brien, the evening paid tribute to Lee as Academy Award-nominated actress (Best Supporting Actress 1993 for her role in “Fearless”) Rosie Perez discussed her fond memories of working with Lee. Perez made her feature-film debut in “Do The Right Thing.” The evening featured special performances by long-time friend and composer Terence Blanchard, which included a tribute to New Orleans and Lee’s documentary “When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts,” along with a Patti Austin collaboration “A Change is Going to Come.” Tap dancer and choreographer Savion Glover performed a dance number to Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power,” a song that also was featured in “Do the Right Thing.” “It’s an honor to join the group of trailblazing artists and professionals who have received this award before me,” Lee said. “I’m particularly thrilled to accept this award in the presence of so many of the family members, friends, mentors and collaborators without whom this recognition would not have been possible. I also want to thank Chrysler for sponsoring the Behind the Lens Award, which recognizes the creative individuals whose work affects our lives every day.” Video clips from some of Lee’s earlier works were introduced by Delroy Lindo, who worked with Lee on three films including “Malcolm X,” “Crooklyn” and “Clockers.” Derek Luke, Michael Ealy, Laz Alonzo and Omar Benson Miller thanked Lee for their recent experience in the upcoming “Miracle at St. Anna.” Lee, during his acceptance speech, surprised the crowd with a 7-minute sneak peak from the film. The Chrysler Foundation also announced it will donate $10,000 in Soledad O’Brien’s name to Ursuline Academy, an all-girl college-preparatory high school in Cincinnati founded in 1896 by the Ursuline Sisters. In addition to Lee’s family and friends, and Chrysler representatives, attendees at the star-studded event included many past cast members that have worked with Lee including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Laurence Fishburne, Rosario Dawson, Wendell Pierce, Rick Fox, Debi Mazer, costume designer Ruth Carter, Chuck D, director Ernest Dickerson, Roger Guenveur Smith along with friends Hill Harper, John Singleton, Elise Neal and many others who have collaborated with or were inspired by Lee’s pioneering work behind the scenes in film and television. Lee’s film career began at New York University’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts, where he drew critical attention for his master’s thesis, the short film “Joe’s Bed-Stuy Barbershop: We Cut Heads.” He went on to write, produce, direct and edit his first feature film, “She’s Gotta Have It,” which earned him the Prix Jeunesse award at the 1986 Cannes Film Festival, the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature and the Los Angeles Film Critics’ Association New Generation Award. Since then, Lee has directed 20 more feature films and feature-length documentaries including “Jungle Fever,” “Malcolm X,” “Inside Man,” the Emmy-nominated “4 Little Girls” and Emmy- winning “When the Levees Broke,” all under the banner of his production company, 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks. He has helped launch the careers of a who’s who of film-industry talents, including director Ernest R. Dickerson (“The Wire,” “Weeds”), costume designer Ruth Carter (“Four Brothers,” “Daddy Day Care”) and actors Halle Berry, Denzel Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, John Turturro, Wesley Snipes, Mos Def, Rosie Perez and Giancarlo Esposito. Lee also is known for producing commercials and directing numerous television spots, including an acclaimed series of Nike ads featuring Michael Jordan, and dozens of music videos for recording artists as diverse as Miles Davis, Public Enemy, Bruce Hornsby and Prince. The consummate entrepreneur, Lee founded SpikeDDB in 1997, a minority- owned, full-service advertising agency in partnership with DDB Worldwide. SpikeDDB has created multilevel advertising campaigns for Pepsi, Ambi Skincare and Mountain Dew. Lee will mark his Broadway debut in 2008 when he directs a new production of “Stalag 17,” the 1951 comedy-drama about American prisoners of war written by two former POWs. Lee’s next feature film, “Miracle at St. Anna,” starring Derek Luke, Michael Ealy, Laz Alonso and Omar Benson Miller, based on the bestselling author James McBride’s novel, will be released in the fall of 2008. Lee is the sixth entertainment trailblazer acknowledged by Chrysler. Previous honorees include pioneers such as producer and composer Quincy Jones (“The Color Purple”), directors Gordon Parks (“Shaft”), Melvin Van Peebles (“Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song”), John Singleton (“Boyz N the Hood”) and Hollywood casting veteran and producer Reuben Cannon (“Madea’s Family Reunion”).

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