Alleged Jimi Hendrix sex tape to be released

Vivid Entertainment is releasing a sex tape allegedly starring Jimi Hendrix.The Los Angeles-based adult entertainment company said they obtained the sex tape from a memorabilia collector.FULL ARTICLE AT CNN.COM

Cox Helps Negro League Baseball Veterans Bring Their Heritage and Message to Central Florida

Cox Communications Central Florida has announced a project to help reinvigorate interest in baseball among African American youth. “Bridging the Gap: The Soul of Baseball,” taking place in Gainesville on May 7th and 8th, will offer a rare opportunity for youth to interact with a special group of athletes, the likes of whom will never be seen again.

Two full days of events include a community luncheon honoring nine veteran players, a ceremony at the start of the University of Florida vs. Bethune Cookman baseball game, and visits with elementary and high school students as well as Boys and Girls Clubs children to help introduce them to the heritage of the great Negro Leagues. The stars of the initiative are nine legendary former Negro League players who will share their personal experiences so as to rekindle interest in America’s pastime among a new generation of African American youth. Cox Communications, which ranked this year as the sixth best company for diversity on the annual DiversityInc Top 50 Companies For Diversity(R) List and which DiversityInc also listed among the top ten workplace environments for African Americans, is organizing the event to give back in a unique way to the community it serves, while celebrating its commitment to diversity.

“These men have tremendous stories to share. They are living links to a bygone era that required all of their courage and determination to pursue their dream under most difficult circumstances,” said Ken Sneed, Cox’s vice president of Customer Care and chair of the Cox Central Florida Diversity & Inclusion Council.

“We have an opportunity to shine a spotlight on these baseball legends for what they have accomplished and to help pass along that heritage to a younger generation that is increasingly leaving baseball behind.” The former Negro League Baseball players who are scheduled to be part of this project are Clifford “Quack” Brown (Philadelphia Stars); William “Billy” Felder (Newark Eagles, Indianapolis Clowns, Philadelphia Stars and minor leagues); Walter Lee “Dirk” Gibbons (Philadelphia Stars, New York Black Yankees, Indianapolis Clowns); Arthur “Jr.” Hamilton (Indianapolis Clowns, Detroit Stars), A.J. Jackson (Kansas City Monarchs); Raydell “Bo” Maddix (Indianapolis Clowns); Harold “Buster” O. Hair (Birmingham Black Barons, Kansas City Monarchs); Reverend Ulysses Samuel Young (Shelton Tigers, New York Blazers, Indianapolis Clowns, New York Royals, Los Angeles Mets, and Los Angeles Tigers); and George Green (Indianapolis Clowns). Cox leaders in Central Florida envision ongoing community support to sponsor youth league baseball focused on disadvantaged areas in its Central Florida system. “Cox Communications will help provide resources to support youth involvement in baseball — sponsoring teams, providing equipment, helping to maintain fields or finding coaches — all of these things are necessary if we expect to see ongoing results from this effort,” said Mike Giampietro, vice president and general manager of Cox Central Florida.

CSI’s Gary Dourdan Arrested for Drug Possession

CSI star Gary Dourdan was arrested early Monday in Palm Springs, Calif., for alleged drug possession, according to local police. FULL ARTICLE AT PEOPLE.COM

Grammy Award Winning Rapper/Actor T.I., to Release Single

On Tuesday, April 29, 2008, Grammy Award Winning Rapper/Actor T.I., will release a single from his highly anticipated album, “Paper Trail” on Hip-Hop Social Network StreetCred.com. The song will be digitally streamed across the network to more than 185 countries and territories.

It will be released April 29, 2008 at 7 a.m. ET on StreetCred.comT.I.’s release is a historic event as it marks the first time a major Hip-Hop artist has released a single on a social network.

This allows T.I. to the ability to harness the power of new media while releasing his single seamlessly. The song can be accessed at www.streetcred.com. Media outlets, which stream the song, from StreetCred.com, must provide mandatory on air credit to “StreedCred.com”.

So what can fans expect from the new track, “No Matter What”? While T.I. says we’ll have to wait a little longer for his next banging club hit, he does want fans to “hear my resilience; hear my diligence to overcome any and all obstacles. I hope they know it ain’t over like some thought. I’m far from finished and all but done.”

Obama ‘outraged’ by Wright’s remarks

Sen. Barack Obama said he is “outraged” by comments his former minister, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, made Monday at the National Press Club and is “saddened by the spectacle.”FULL ARTICLE AT CNN.COM

Women and Depression, Twice the Rate as Men

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has released a new brochure, Women and Depression, about major depression in women, addressing causes, symptoms, life stages and treatment. It can be downloaded at http://www.nami.org/womendepression.

– 1 in 8 women experiences depression in their lifetime; twice the rate as men, regardless of race or ethnic background.

– Middle-aged Hispanic women have the highest rate of depression symptoms, followed by middle-aged African American women.

– Young Asian American women have the highest rate of younger groups and the 2nd highest rate of suicide among 15 to 24 year olds. American Indians and Alaska Native adolescents are the most likely to attempt suicide and die from it.

“Nearly 18 million Americans experience depression every year,” said NAMI medical director Ken Duckworth, M.D. “Some experiences are unique to women, including post-partum changes, infertility, and hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives.” “Information in the brochure will help women help themselves, as well as other women in their lives. All family members benefit by learning more.” “The good news is that with correct diagnosis, most people can be treated effectively. The bad news is that two-thirds of people living with depression don’t get the help they need.”

Major depression is a medical illness that affects a person’s mind, mood, body, and behavior. It is more than “feeling down” because of a recent loss or family, work or financial stresses. It occurs when these feelings become more intense and persist to the point that they affect daily functioning. NAMI’s 13-page brochure highlights symptoms, causes, women of color, life stages, and treatment, with additional sections on seeking professional help, self-help, preventing recurrent depression, and helping other women.

Bulk copies of Women and Depression for community education can be purchased online at http://www.nami.org/womendepression.

The Game, Fellow Rappers Sound Off for Sean Bell

The Game isn’t playing with this one. In light of the shooting death of 23-year-old Sean Bell and the subsequent acquittal last week of the NYPD officers who fired the fatal shots, the SoCal-bred rapper has penned a musical response that in no uncertain terms lets us know where he stands. FULL ARTICLE AT EONLINE.COM

Nationally Recognized Comedians Headline Houston Black Expo

When the curtain opens on the fifth year of the highly successful Houston Black Expo, it will feature the designer clothing line of nationally-renowned comedian and businessman J. Anthony Brown. Millions of radio listeners are entertained by the comedic antics of J. Anthony Brown as a personality on the nationally syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show. While his roots are in comedy, Brown has broadened his act to include a successful line of products that carry his name including his clothing line, “The J. Anthony Brown Collection,” hot sauces and comedy videos.

The Houston Black Expo will feature some big names in comedy entertainment this year as it welcomes stand up comedian A.J. Jamal and funny lady Kim Coles along with popular gospel singer J. Moss to headline shows during the two day festival. Jamal, who has made television appearances on some of the most popular comedy venues from HBO to BET, will headline the comedy showcase on May 17. Songwriter, producer and recording artist Moss will take the audience to church as the headliner for the Sunday Gospel Explosion, bringing his unique brand of music to the Expo. In addition to Jamal, Coles and Moss, nationally-renowned comedian and businessman J. Anthony Brown and his men’s fashions will be featured in a Celebrity Fashion Show on Friday, May 16.

The Houston Black Expo will be held May 17-18 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston. The event, the largest trade show in Texas attracting more than 17,000 in 2007, provides an opportunity for business owners on all levels to network and display their goods and services to a diverse audience. On Saturday morning May 17, a Community Breakfast will take place with a panel discussion on various topics important to the City of Houston’s African American community.

Panel members will be The Honorable Jalonda Jones; the Money Lady Marilyn Logan; Ken Patterson of Edward Jones Investments; and former Congressman Attorney Craig Washington.

J. Moss is a youthful and energetic gospel artist whose music connects with today’s generation. The Detroit-born musician has recently released a new project called V2..The J Moss Project. The Gospel Explosion starts at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 18.Jamal will headline the comedy show on Saturday, May 17 at 7:00 p.m. The former “In Living Color” alum will leave the audience in stitches as he offers his brand of comedy that is right for a family or a diverse audience. Coles has appeared on numerous hit television programs, including Frasier, Six Feet Under, In Living Color and Living Single. She has also served as co-host for several morning programs, including Fox After Breakfast and Lifetime’s lifestyle magazine, New Attitudes, and has been a guest co-host for various shows, including The View and Good Day Live. She is also known to reality audiences for having appeared on The Mole, VH1’s Celebrity Fit Club and BET’s search for “the next superstar of funny.” From vendors to business goods and services the Houston Black Expo offers something for everyone.

During the Houston Black Expo, visitors will not only have the opportunity to visit the many vendor booths, but they will see cooking demonstrations, a hair show and have access to the National Black Book Festival featuring some of the countries top authors. Houston’s own award winning Reshonda Tate Billingsley will be on hand. During the book festival you will learn how to publish your own book and the interworkings of the publishing world. So there is much to do and see for the family during the Houston Black Expo.

Kadeem Hardison Stars In ‘Made of Honor’

It’s been a long time coming but Kadeem Hardison is back on the big screen.

Although he will forever be known for portraying Dwayne Wayne on ‘The Cosby Show’ spin-off ‘A Different World,’ Hardison has done some film in the past, including memorable roles in ‘School Daze’ and ‘White Man Can’t Jump’. But outside of that, we hadn’t seen much of him except for some TV gigs on various shows.

In speaking exclusively with Hardison, he talks about his character, working with Dempsey, and being a father to his daughter, Sophia Hardison.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE

Mariah Carey spotted in TENNESSEE

PREMIERING AT THE TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL

SYNOPSIS: Two brothers, Carter (Adam Rothenberg) and Ellis (Ethan Peck), embark on a journey from New Mexico to find their estranged father in the hopes of saving Ellis, who has been diagnosed with terminal leukemia. Along the way they meet Krystal (Mariah Carey), an aspiring country singer, who becomes the brothers’ guardian angel and joins them on their fateful road trip.

Carey will perform a tune in the film, co-written with country legend Willie Nelson, while also singing an a-cappella version of Nelson’s “Help Me Make It Through the Night.”

GUNNIN FOR THAT #1 SPOT to the NBA

RELEASE DATE: June 27, 2008

SYNOPSIS: On the corner of 155th Street and Frederick Douglas Boulevard in Harlem lies Rucker Park. By appearances, the green concrete pavement, anchored on one side by its run down slab bleachers, is no different than any other basketball court in the city, but this is the place where nicknames are indelibly branded, and legends are born.

On September 1, 2006, the top 24 high school basketball players in the nation stepped out on this same court that once saw the likes of Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Dr. J to compete in the first annual Boost Mobile Elite 24 Hoops Classic. “Gunnin for that #1 Spot” follows eight of these players as they showcase their skills at the most legendary playground in the world – one that’s as intense an experience for NBA professionals as for budding young talent.

Directed by Adam Yauch (founding member of Beastie Boys and director of “Awesome;I F***ing Shot That!”), the film trails these players on the fast track to the NBA, as they are adored by fans, wooed by colleges and sneaker companies, and face fierce pressures while being groomed to be in the spotlight of a multi-million dollar game. Combining Yauch’s unique directing style and the world’s most popular hip hop music, “Gunnin’” highlights these soon to be NBA All Stars as they wow the crowd with gravity-defying skills in a way never before seen on film.

Black Chamber seeks entrepreneurial equality

Nestled among a mix of tidy homes, independent businesses and boarded up houses on East Delavan Avenue sits the Black Chamber of Commerce of Western New York.FULL ARTICLE AT BUFFALONEWS.COM

Nobel Peace Laureate Speaks at Ecological Awakening Event

The greeting outside Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church on Saturday was meant to send a clear message that their special guest and keynote speaker could feel at home.FULL ARTICLE AT LATIMES.COM

Queen Latifah, Chaka Khan, Dionne Warwick, Cece Winans, and More

AARP, the world’s largest advocacy organization for the 50+ community, today announced it will bring a star studded, two-hour musical event entitled, “Songs of Soul and Inspiration” to the Philips Arena in Atlanta, GA on June 21, 2008. Tickets will be available for the general public on April 21st.

The mega-event — directed by Golden Globe, Emmy and Tony award-winning producer and choreographer Debbie Allen — is part of AARP’s 50th anniversary celebration and features a once-in-a-lifetime line-up of female vocalists, including Yolanda Adams, Patti Austin, Shirley Caesar, Chaka Khan, Jamia, Queen Latifah, Dionne Warwick, CeCe Winans, the Fire Choir and Ann Nesby appearing with Paris Bennett.

“We’re thrilled to bring this extraordinary musical event to Atlanta in celebration of our 50th anniversary,” said Emilio Pardo, Chief Brand Officer, AARP. “The talent coming together for this show is truly phenomenal and a perfect way for our members, their families and friends to join in our celebration. These performers have provided us with a lifetime of exceptional music that will now come together in one memorable evening.”

This gathering of some of the top pop, gospel, rhythm & blues, and soul singers will honor the musical legacy of the African American church and the extraordinary voices that flowed from it into the worlds of popular music and film. As young artists, these women made their way to recording studios, stages and concert halls to bring their faith to a larger audience.

Over time, each woman became a star in her own right and brought unwavering messages of hope and inspiration to the airwaves. “I am honored to help AARP celebrate its 50th Anniversary and I’m looking forward to spending this special evening with my friends who share a passion for the extraordinary music featured in Songs of Soul & Inspiration,” said Chaka Khan. Dionne Warwick added, “Congratulations to AARP for 50 years of inspiration… this is only the beginning, and I look forward to celebrating in Atlanta!”

The event will feature a wide range of musical genres and vocal styles–from the intimate jazz of Patti Austin and the silky pop of Dionne Warwick to the funk ‘n’soul of Chaka–all fused with the messages of hope and inspiration. Underscoring the power of music to connect people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life, Ann Nesby will pair her R&B stylings with her 19-year-old granddaughter Paris Bennett, one of the top 5 finalists on the fifth season of “American Idol.”

Renowned choreographer Debbie Allen will direct the program, which tells the story of how these soulful superstars began singing in church choirs before taking their music to the world in their own distinctive styles. Additionally, the winners of AARP and Radio One’s One Love Gospel Cruise national church choir competition will perform with the stars.

Judge who lectured blacks was a ‘thug’

Judge Marvin Arrington had seen and heard enough.The parade of black men and women — criminals and mothers of criminals — he saw every day frustrated him.FULL ARTICLE AT AJC.COM

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