Monday, September 25, 2006
Online Computer Courses!
Harrisburg, PA (BlackNews.com) - Greg Russell loves his mother but he nearly lost his patience with her one day as she explained her frustration with using her computer. Instead, Russell took a deep breath and discovered a way to help Mom solve her problem by using simple language that she could understand. "I explained to her the fundamentals of computers," said Russell. "The main functions of all computers are to copy and share information. Once you learn how to do the basics, you'll see why I say computers are not difficult -- people make computers difficult."
Within minutes of explaining a few simple concepts to his mother, she performed functions she never thought possible. Russell, the Founder and CEO of SuccessTeam1.com, a web design, development, hosting and training company, then realized that he could take his expertise and help others like his mother. "I asked Mom if she thought her friends would like to learn more about computers," said Russell. She assured him that she wasn't the only frustrated soul in the bunch. Within weeks, Russell was teaching a classroom full of individuals of all ages and backgrounds, how to make computers fun.
His recent course, Computers Made Easy Online teaches fundamental computer concepts in a unique way that gets people to understand how to use their computers very quickly. Leveraging the power of the Internet, students will actually be able to "see" the principles in action through a powerful teaching tool that Russell uses. "People learn computers by watching or mimicking the motions that they see onscreen," said Russell. "By hearing me explain the concepts, seeing me move my cursor on screen and interacting with me, my students will shave months off of their learning curve, guaranteed."
The Computers Made Easy Class starts on September 21st at 8pm EST. The complete course consists of four (4) one-hour classes each week.
Register now at www.ComputersMadeEasyOnline.com and get a special introductory discount for the first class plus over $595 in FREE bonuses!
Name: Greg Russell
Address: 880 Dartmouth St. Suite B19, Harrisburg PA 17109
Phone: 877-MY-DOT-COM (877-693-6826)
Email: training@computersmadeeasyonline.com
Website: www.ComputersMadeEasyOnline.com
Light Skin Blacks vs. Dark Skin Blacks
LOCAL BLACK NEWSPAPER EXPOSES TABOO ISSUE WITH STORY - "LIGHT SKIN BLACKS VS. DARK SKIN BLACKS"
Springfield, IL (BlackNews.com) - The Capital City Courier (CCC), a local black newspaper, just keeps exposing subjects that were once simply discussed in quiet corners. Continuing their trend of publishing nationally acclaimed cover stories such as "Why Can't Blacks Work Together" and "Interracial Romance: Is Love Color Blind", this months lead story is entitled "Light Skin Blacks vs. Dark Skin Blacks" written by Kim E. Gordon. The article, which includes a thorough historical and sociological examination of this phenomenon with several points of view, has again brought out in the open a simmering debate throughout the black diaspora. This time the issue is related to the seeming incongruent circumstance that many blacks still have issues related to intra-racial discrimination while yet understanding the destructive societal impact of racism itself. How can this be?
"One of the aims of this newspaper is to talk about and raise issues on the items that we talk about in private but don't generally talk about in public," stated Michael Pittman, the editor-in-chief of the Capital City Courier. "I continue to take the stance that if blacks as a community are going to overcome, we must be able to confront the issues that sometimes make us uncomfortable" he continued.
"I clearly understand that some people may believe that bringing controversial subjects out into the light of day is simply sensationalism or possibly counterproductive," Pittman stated. "My desire is to place the spotlight on subjects that are viewed as taboo and attempt to eliminate them by the cleansing and healing light of public examination and discussion," he continued.
Pittman continued to express his desire to spark an evolution in the community's collective viewpoint from the dialogue that results due to the article. "I believe it is our place here at this little newspaper to continue with these articles that spur rippling discussions across this country," Pittman concluded.
For additional information on the Captial City Courier or the "Light Skin Blacks vs. Dark Skin Blacks" article, contact Michael Pittman at (217) 528-2998 or visit the CCC's website at www.capitalcitycourier.org
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Southern Heritage Classic? Southern Thug Classic?
Sincerely,
The Editor
Memphis Minority Online.Com
editor@memphisminorityonline.com
Teaching Black Women to Podcast!
CONTACT:
Demetria Zinga
205-246-5088
www.publishapodcast.com
PODCASTING FOR BUSINESS AND MINISTRY, TEACHING WOMEN HOW TO PODCAST
Faith Media Launches a Teleclass for Women in Business and Ministry Who Want to Learn How to Begin Podcasting
Demetria Zinga
Northport, AL-The rise of podcasting in today’s online circles of audio messaging has raised the eyebrows of government corporations, Fortune 500 companies, educational institutions, and religious organizations. It is no surprise that the grassroots movement has spread to infiltrate nearly every industry world wide. So, why aren’t more small business owners and religious organizations taking advantage of the potential of this medium?
Demetria Zinga, founder of technology consulting and coaching company Faith Media (www.faith-media.com), attempts to bridge this gap by introducing the web’s first ongoing teleclass series on podcasting for business and ministry purposes.
The "Podcasting for Business and Ministry" teleclass will be an ongoing event and is set to launch on September 27th at 1:00 PM Central. During the teleclass, which is conducted via a telephone bridge line, Mrs. Zinga will be answering 12 of the most common questions asked about podcasting, and will provide in-depth information on the importance of beginning one’s very own podcast.
"I wanted to provide an open forum where women in business or ministry may ask questions about this new medium and how it can be applied to their life work," Zinga says. "Of course, the teleclass is open to men as well, but my main purpose on these teleclasses is to inspire women small business owners to begin tapping into the power of podcasting to improve their marketability. I also aim to assist women in ministry who have a need to get their inspirational messages across the globe by utilizing podcasting technologies to their advantage."
Although long distance charges may apply, depending on one’s individual phone company, the ongoing teleclass is free of charge. The teleclass is conducted by telephone. Registration for this event is found at www.publishapodcast.com. Once registered, a phone number and passcode are given to all registrants.
For more information on the Podcasting for Business and Ministry teleclass, please visit www.publishapodcast.com. In order to reach Demetria Zinga for interview purposes, please call 205-246-5088.
-END-
African American Prostate Cancer Disparity Summit
LEADERS JOIN THE PROSTATE HEALTH EDUCATION NETWORK (PHEN) AT AFRICAN AMERICAN PROSTATE CANCER DISPARITY SUMMIT
Senator John Kerry (D-MA), Congressman Gregory Meeks (D-NY), and Healthcare Leaders to Convene on Capitol Hill, September 21-22nd
Washington, DC (BlackNews.com) - The Second Annual African American Prostate Cancer Disparity Summit (the Summit), hosted by the Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN) aims to confront the current disparity leaving black men dying at more than twice (2.4 times) the rate of any other race from prostate cancer. During this two-day Summit, prostate cancer survivors, advocates, community leaders, researchers, and policy-makers will come together to present and review information, analyze existing programs, and explore new initiatives to address the prostate cancer disparity. The discussions aim to raise awareness and to foster common understandings, as well as to form a strategic framework that will lead towards eliminating the racial disparity.
Highlighted activities during September 21-23rd include:
Thursday, September 21st
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Congressional Opening Ceremonies—A Call to Action
PHEN has invited Congressional leaders from the states that suffer the highest prostate cancer death rates for black men to speak about how this issue is impacting their Districts. Invited leaders include: Congressman G. K. Butterfield (D-NC); Congressman James E. Clyburn (D-SC); and Congressman Melvin L. Watt (D-NC).
9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Why the African American Prostate Cancer Disparity?
An in-depth look at reasons why African Americans have a 60% higher incidence rate of prostate cancer than all other men, resulting in a 150% higher mortality rate. Participants from four of US News & World Report’s top five nationally-ranked best Cancer Centers will explore actions that should be undertaken to eliminate this disparity of epidemic proportions.
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Luncheon Program with Focus on Legislative Initiatives
Summit Co-hosts Senator John F. Kerry (D-MA) and Congressman Gregory W. Meeks will join Thomas A. Farrington, President, PHEN, to introduce proposed legislation recognizing the African American prostate cancer disparity as a national epidemic that must be eliminated. Other Congressional leaders who will show their support includes: Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD); Congressman Artur Davis (D-AL); Congressman Vito Fossella (R-NY); and Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA).
Friday, September 22nd
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Early Detection Screening—The Benefits, Risks and Debate
There is an ongoing debate about the effectiveness of early detection screening for prostate cancer, and this session will explore the known benefits and risks for black men. Urology and technology experts representing AdMeTech; Johns Hopkins Cancer Center; Harvard Medical School; and University of Florida, will discuss new screening technologies and their effectiveness in eliminating the disparity.
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Luncheon Presentation of Groundbreaking Cancer Vaccine
Dr. Mitchell Gold, President and CEO of the Dendreon Company. Dendreon is in phase three trials for a groundbreaking prostate cancer vaccine (PROVENGE) and plans to file an application with the FDA for approval this year. The Summit will examine the potential for this vaccine to reduce the African-American prostate cancer death rate.
Saturday, September 23rd
10:00 a.m.-Full Day
Howard University Cancer Center—Prostate Cancer Screening Event
Howard University is the nation’s only African American cancer center. The screening van will test African American men for prostate cancer, as this group suffers the world’s worst prostate cancer conditions.
Where:
Summit Events, Panels, and Luncheons
Rayburn House Office Building (Room 2168)
Washington, DC 20515
Howard University Prostate Cancer Screening Event
Prince Hall Masonic Temple
1000 U Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001
-END-
African-American Art
AFRICAN-AMERICAN FINE ART--A NEW DEPARTMENT AT SWANN GALLERIES
Swann Galleries is the Only Major Auction House to Offer Regular Sales of Works by African-American Artists
Charles White's rare lithograph entitled "Awaiting his Return," 1946, will be among the highlighs in Swann Galleries' first auction devoted to African-American Fine Art in February 2007. (Estimate: $15,000 to $25,000).
New York, NY (BlackNews.com) - Coming on the heels of several very successful and record-breaking auctions featuring works by African-American artists, Swann Galleries is launching a new department devoted to African-American Fine Art.
This exciting new venture, headed by Nigel Freeman, Swann's Associate Director of Prints & Drawings, will offer annual auctions of prints, drawings, paintings and collages by noted African-American artists--to be held in February during Black History Month.
During the 2005-06 season, four important Romare Bearden collages sold at Swann auctions for more than $100,000 each, and new auction records were achieved for works by a number of African-American artists. This strong performance, and subsequent interest in consignments to forthcoming auctions, inspired the creation of the new department.
"There is a growing secondary market for works by African-American artists, and Swann is proud to be the only major auction house to devote regular auctions to these important pieces," said Freeman. "This segment of the fine art market is young. Our sales will establish market prices and contribute to scholarship in the field."
The first auction will feature impressive pieces by Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Charles White, and Hale Woodruff.
Swann Galleries is also the only major auction house to conduct regular sales devoted to Printed & Manuscript African Americana, a growing field of collecting that includes books, manuscripts, historical documents, autographs, photographs, historical prints, posters, and other ephemera. These auctions, conceived and organized by specialist Wyatt H. Day in 1996, attract a large and enthusiastic clientele.
The consignment deadline for the February 2007 auctions of African-American Fine Art and Printed & Manuscript African Americana is November 20.
For further information, and to propose consignments to the first auction devoted to African-American Fine Art, which will boast a full-color catalogue, please contact Nigel Freeman at 212-254-4710, extension 33, or nfreeman@swanngalleries.com.
To propose consignments to the 12th annual auction of Printed & Manuscript African-Americana, please contact Wyatt H. Day, at 212-254-4710, extension 80, or whday@swanngalleries.com.
About Swann Auction Galleries
Swann Galleries was founded in 1941 as an auction house specializing in Rare and Antiquarian Books, and today is the largest specialist auctioneers of Works on Paper in the world. Swann conducts an average of 40 sales a year, encompassing Books, Autographs, Maps, Photographs & Photographic Literature, Prints & Drawings, and Vintage Posters. There are annual special-subject sales devoted to African-Americana, Magic and Space Exploration. Visit www.swanngalleries.com for more information.
Interesting View on Survivor Series
IN DEFENSE OF "SURVIVOR" SEGREGATION
By Earl Ofari Hutchinson, BlackNews.com Columnist
The howls were loud and long when the producers of CBS’s Survivor show announced in August that they would racially segregate contestants on their opening segment September 14. The more charitable critics blasted it as cheap ploy to boost ratings. The harsher ones blasted it as an invitation to start a new race war. There was even some loose talk about boycotting the show and its sponsors, but that didn’t, nor should it have gone anywhere.
That will virtually guarantee the ratings rocket burst that the show’s producers want. In fact, they made no secret that they hope that the controversy will jump start its flagging ratings.
But the show’s producers realize that touting racial segregation to get a point or two bump up in ratings is much too brash and crass. The fall back defense is that the experiment as they call it will promote diversity. And they’re probably right.
Survivor has been hammered for the scarcity of black and brown faces. If it takes segregation to get more of them on there, than so be it. But that won’t last. In past episodes the show has paired contestants by age and gender and they eventually merged with each other. The same will happen with the racially paired contestants. But even if the contestants had remained gender and age pigeonholed, the contestants eventually rub shoulders with each other during the competition.
Sadly, millions of Americans won’t do the same. The Sunday church hour is still as the old saying goes one of the most segregated hours in America. In school cafeterias, office lunchrooms, and at countless social events, blacks, Latinos, Asians, and whites more often than not huddle tightly together in their separate racial enclaves. There is no prohibition against them mixing and mingling, but it’s simply chalked up to personal and social preference.
The recent incident in which a white Coushatta, Louisiana school bus driver ordered a handful of black students to the back of her bus drew rage and protest from black parents. The driver was properly reprimanded. But if she hadn’t done a dumb, mindless act, the black and white children probably would have arranged their seating along racial lines anyway.
The reality of self-segregation was revealing and embarrassing at a recent gathering of top Latino, black, white and Asian activists in Los Angeles. The issue was of all things how to reduce ethnic tensions following racially charged incidences of violence in the schools and jails.
Midway through the meeting one of the participants stood up and demanded that the group look around the room and note how the participants were sitting. We did, and sure enough, the blacks were sitting with the blacks, the Latinos with the Latinos, the Asians with the Asians, and the whites next to each other. He didn’t have to say what we all thought. If those that regard themselves as the most enlightened, and proactive on racial issues, self-segregate, than it takes little imagination to figure that bridging the racial divide is a tough one. And it’s getting tougher.
Most big city schools are more segregated than a decade ago, and they are also poorer and miserably failing. Residential segregation is still the norm in most of these cities, and even when blacks and Latinos integrate neighborhoods, they often don’t stay that way very long, white flight insures that they are soon re-segregated.
Despite the well-publicized shove to the top of black executives at American Express, Merrill Lynch, and AOL Time Warner, black CEOs are still a rarity at most of the Fortune 1000 corporations. The overwhelming majority of senior managers at these companies are white males. Many blacks discover that departments or divisions within the same company are top heavy with black employees and managers while others are virtually lily-white.
Years later many still find themselves stuck in the same dead-end positions, or stacked into the corporate ghetto jobs or positions such as director, VP, or manager of community relations, or equal employment opportunity or human resources, or assigned to oversee special markets (i.e. black or minority) In America’s jails and prisons, a black, Latino, or white inmate takes his life in his hands if he strays too far from his own group on the yard or the tiers.
That’s only the big-ticket stuff of segregation. There are the less visible, and less easily provable, annoying race distinctions. The cabs that whiz by black or Latino passengers, the police officer that routinely stops and frisks young blacks and Latinos solely because they are young, black and Latino, and the galling indignity of being followed by security guards and ignored by clerks and sales personnel in department stores. They are thorn in the side reminders that race in far too many cases still matters.
A fantasy reality show did not make the real life reality of America’s lingering, and insidious segregation. But if Survivor makes millions of Americans think, and think hard, about that reality, than the show should be applauded not jeered.
BlackNews.com columnist Earl Ofari Hutchinson is the author of the forthcoming, The Emerging Black GOP Majority (Middle Passage Press, September 2006), a hard-hitting look at Bush and The GOP’s court of black voters. For order information, see www.blackgopbook.com
For media interviews, contact:
Mr. Hutchinson at 323-296-6331 or hutchinsonreport@aol.com
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Hot Websites!
Educating Youth on the Music Business!
Florence M. Howard
President and Founder
Secret Shop Communicators
SSCOMM, Inc.
P.O. Box 753897
Memphis, TN 38175-3897
Phone: (901) 827-0836
fhsecretshop@prodigy.net
Hot Event for African-American Women!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1, 2006
CONTACT:
Chantell Seymore
Legacy Entertainment Inc.
800-203-8219 x5
chantell@sistahsummit.com
www.sistahsummit.com
ANNOUNCING THE 5TH ANNUAL SISTAH SUMMIT - "CLAIM YOUR TRANSFORMATION"
Denver, CO (BlackNews.com) - Presenting the 5th Annual Sistah Summit Retreat November 2-5, 2006. This four day retreat is taking place Thursday, November 2nd through Sunday, November 5th in the aesthetically stunning and spiritually stimulating southwest desert city of Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The retreat is designed for the sole purpose of helping women of color step out of their regular environments to see, learn and share things they usually don't have the opportunity to do in the hustle of day to day living. It is a time to Commit, Connect, Commune, and Celebrate through wonderful workshops, indulgent spas and treatment and inspirational speakers. Guest appearances include national television personalities and psychologists Dr. Robin L. Smith, Dr. Brenda Wade, and transformational specialist Rev. Andriette Earl. It is an opportunity to travel for transformation. The Mountains Are Calling You!
"I see the summit as the ultimate mountaintop retreat, combining empowerment, spiritual awareness and nature," noted Rhonda Jackson, Owner of Legacy Entertainment and founder of the Sistah Summit. "In simple terms, 'coming out of the concrete' of an urban setting and taking a journey into God's country. It allows women an opportunity to 'come and play,'" to attend to those things most important in life and go forth to tackle life challenges with new vigor," she added.
With the intimate balance of music to heal, personal stories to share, and thoughts to explore, the Sistah Summit is the perfect place for you to work through those nagging questions like "what do I want to do with the rest of my life" or "what kind of relationship do I really want?" or "how can I move to my higher self?" From overeating to stress to depression, the Summit creates a safe place for you to put it all on the table and get the answers you deserve.
If your world has become frazzled, overwhelming and challenging on all ends, the Sistah Summit is the warm bath you'll need to wash away the dirt from the old path you've traveled so that you can see, more clearly, the new road that awaits you in this life. It is for you, it is for your family, it is for the world. We await you at The Sistah Summit. Call us, today at 1-800-203-8219 or visit us at www.sistahsummit.com and claim your space.
Legacy Entertainment Inc.
A leader in special events for women and communities of color.
Legacy Entertainment Inc.
Chantell Seymore 800-203-8219 ext. 5
Publicity
chantell@sistahsummit.com
Empowering Black Men!
Washington, DC (BlackNews.com) - This October, Randal Pinkett and Kwame Jackson will join a group of national business experts that have answered the call to share their experiences, winning tactics and advice during the 2006 Securing Your Legacy - African American Man's Empowerment Weekend (AAMEW).
This event marks the first time that Randal Pinkett, winner of the 2005 season of NBC's "The Apprentice" and Kwame Jackson, the first runner up of the show's first season, will serve on a panel together. "Pinkett and Jackson have demonstrated that African American men can compete and succeed against America's best," said Theresa Royal, CMP, president of Royal Events, LLC (a minority woman owned and operated event management-company and AAMEW organizer).
However, according to Royal, this weekend is about more than Pinkett and Jackson's success. "It's about [African American] men being among the very best. But, we're not focused just on individual self-improvement; we are discussing building a tradition of achievement that will benefit future generations."
A Men of Distinction (MOD) Dinner is being hosted to honor men that embody this Royal notion of legacy building. Among this year's nominees are Dr. Randal Pinkett (President and CEO of BCT Partners), Kwame Jackson (Chairman and Co-Founder of Legacy Holdings LLC), Earl Graves, Sr. (publisher "Black Enterprise" Magazine), Donnie Simpson (Radio Personality, Infinity Broadcasting), Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Howard University.
By creating a forum for such an uncommon blend of professional, social and financial health for African American men, Royal Events, LLC hopes to achieve one overall mission, "bolstering African American men's ability to compete, succeed and create a lasting trail for others to follow."
Included in this year's Securing Your Legacy Weekend:
* Leveraged to the Hilt - William Keating, MBA, aka Professor Bill, motivational speaker and author
* Moving From Ideal Days to an Ideal Life - Terrell Whitener, MA, Productive Workforce Development, LLC
* The Organizational Game Revealed - Harvey Coleman, MBA, Coleman Management Consultants
* Giving Back Golf Tournament with partial proceeds benefiting youth achievement programming
The 2006 Securing Your Legacy - African American Man's Empowerment weekend will be hosted October 19-22, 2006 at the Marriott Westfields in Chantilly, VA. For more information visit www.royalevents.com or call 301-262-3472.
-END-
Delta Sigma Theta!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 18, 2006
CONTACT:
Gwendolyn Crump
202-986-2400, ext. 384
SUPPORT TO BLACK COLLEGES TOPS AGENDA AT DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY CONVENTION
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(left to right) Rita Waters, National Convention Coordinator, and Dr. Louise A. Rice, 23rd National President, pictured with Delta Sigma Theta award recipients Johnnie Walker, Michael Days and Joan Myers Brown. Walker, a recording industry executive, and Myers Brown, who founded the Philadelphia Dance Company, both received the Osceola Award, the Sororitys highest award in the arts. Days, who is editor of the Philadelphia Daily News, received the Lillian Award, which honors media professionals.Philadelphia, PA (BlackNews.com) - Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., made a major commitment to three Historically Black Colleges and Universities during its 48th National Convention held in late July 2006 in Philadelphia. At the convention's public meeting program, Dr. Louise A. Rice, the Sorority's national president, explained that the Delta National Executive Board and its Hurricane Relief Task Force stipulated that major financial contributions be made to the HBCU's affected by Hurricane Katrina. Collectively $700,000 will be awarded to Dillard, Xavier, and Southern Universities over the next five years.
The recipient of the Delta's Distinguished Professor Endowed Chair Award for the 2006-08 biennium is Southern University at New Orleans. Dr. Victor Ukpolo, chancellor of SUNO, was in attendance at the Delta convention, where he received the first installment of $100,000 for the Distinguished Professor Award. Dr. Rice also announced that Dillard and Xavier Universities will each receive $250,000 over the next five-years.
More than 12,000 Deltas attended the biennial meeting held in Philadelphia for the first time in 85 years. The week-long meeting featured program initiatives and workshops in health, social action, economic development and the arts; award presentations; and special events. A current program initiative of the Sorority is the Lifestyle Change Initiative. The Sorority implemented it's first Lose to Win: Total Woman Healthy Weight Program which charts the course for Deltas and women in their local communities to maintain healthy lifestyles through proper nutrition, exercise regimens, and spiritual development. Dr. Rice stated that major emphasis is being given to decrease the incidence of obesity by achieving and maintaining a healthy weight in an effort to combat heart disease-the leading cause of death among women.
In addition to striving for good health, Delta convention participants also received updates on the Sorority's economic development program, Financial Fortitude which focuses on financial planning and financial literacy to empower sorors and community members to learn how to achieve financial goals. A major component of the economic development program is The Delta Challenge: Homeownership Initiative. "Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is resolutely determined to help empower African-Americans by providing tools and information that will enable them to become homeowners, an important aspect of wealth building," said the DST national president.
This year, the Sorority's highest award for outstanding service, The Mary Church Terrell Award, was presented to Delta member Elaine R. Jones, former director and general counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. A special recognition award was presented to noted attorney Frankie Muse Freeman, of St. Louis and former national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Freeman, a former member of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, was recognized for exemplary leadership in civil rights and social justice spanning several decades. The Patricia Roberts Harris Medallion for Excellence in Government Service was presented to Mayor Marcia L. Fudge of Warrensville Heights, OH and a past national president of Delta, and to State Senator Diana Bajoie of Louisiana. Vice Chancellor Adelaide Sanford of the New York State Board of Education was presented the Althea T.L. Simmons Social Action Award. Other honorees included Michael Days, editor of the Philadelphia Daily News, who received The Lillian Award presented to outstanding media professionals; Johnnie Walker, recording industry executive, and Joan Myers Brown, founder and director of the Philadelphia Dance Company (Philadanco), each received the Sorority's highest art award-The Osceola.
The next national convention of Delta will be held in Orlando, FL in 2008.
Jesse Jackson!
JESSE JACKSON NAMED KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT 12TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT PINNACLE AWARDS IN HOUSTON
Rev. Jesse Jackson
Houston, TX (BlackNews.com) - The Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., president and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, will deliver the keynote address at the 12th Annual African American Business Achievement Pinnacle Awards (Pinnacle Awards) gala. Jackson will address some 500 expected attendees at the black-tie event hosted by the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce (HCCC). The Pinnacle Awards gala date has been changed to Friday, Oct. 13, 2006, to accommodate Jackson's schedule. The event location and time remain the same, The Houston Club, 811 Rusk Avenue, beginning at 7 p.m.
Jackson is one of America's foremost political figures. Over the past 30 years he has played a pivotal role in virtually every movement for empowerment, peace, civil rights, gender equality, and economic social justice.
He has been called the "conscience of the nation" and "the great unifier," challenging America to establish just and humane priorities. Jackson is known for bringing people together on common ground across lines of race, class, gender and belief.
"We're pleased to welcome Rev. Jackson to Houston and believe it's fitting as we honor African American business achievement and economic empowerment," said Val Thompson, executive director of HCCC. "Rev. Jackson has been at the forefront of civil rights and has influenced public policy to level the playing field for minority business owners for years."
The Pinnacle Awards spotlight and honor African-American businesses that have achieved success by combining vision, determination, commitment, perseverance and dedication to building strong communities.
The prior 44 Pinnacle Award recipients cross all business sectors and disciplines. Past winners include Houston business leaders such as: Dr. Wanda Mott, The Women's Specialists of Houston; Borris Miles, Borris L. Miles Insurance Agency; Deavra Daughtry, Excel E-Care; David Hollins, Sr., Hollins Financial Group; Darryl King, Quality Concession Foods, Inc.; DeAndre Sam, A-Rocket Moving & Storage; Al Colbert, Colbert Ball Tax Service; Harlon Brooks, Harlon's BBQ; David Harris, Best Staff Services; Anthony Chase, ChaseCom; and Jean D. Morency and Effie Booker, Cabana Car Wash, and many others.
The nomination deadline is Friday, Aug. 18, and forms may be obtained on the Chamber's Web site, www.hccoc.org or by calling 713-522-9745.
Gala sponsorships are available to demonstrate support and strengthen business ties to the African-American community. To request an underwriting package, please call 281-213-9554.
About Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce
Since 1935, the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce has represented the interests of and promoted greater unity among the African-American business community. Today, HCCC is evolving its programs to assist African-American businesses to become more diverse and move into the global arena. For more information, visit www.hccoc.org or call 713-522-9745.
About The Rainbow PUSH Coalition
Rainbow PUSH Coalition is a progressive organization that seeks to protect civil rights, even the economic and educational playing fields in all aspects of American life and bring peace to the world. For more information about the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, 930 E. 50th St. in Chicago, please visit www.rainbowpush.org, or telephone (773) 373-3366.
-END-
College Preparation Blog!
Tavis Smiley!
Los Angeles, CA (BlackNews.com) - Readers who made the Covenant with Black America a New York Times #1 bestseller now have a new virtual meeting place to converse, share ideas and implement action plans to address pressing issues facing African Americans.
Tavis Smiley, editor of The Covenant, announced the new features and re-launch of the website, www.covenantwithblackamerica.com, on the nationally-syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show. The new site will launch Thursday, Aug. 17.
The Covenant with Black America is a national plan of action to address the primary concerns of African Americans today -- from health to housing, from crime to criminal justice, from education to economic parity. Since its debut in February the book has ignited interest from grassroots upstarts to established national organizations seeking to adopt one or more of its 10 key tenants.
"We wanted to move from a site that simply provided information about The Covenant to one that allows everyone committed to creating a Covenant project to meet and share ideas," said Smiley.
"Literally every day since the book's release I've heard from folks all around the country about their efforts, ideas and plans on making this book a living, breathing, walking, talking movement for making Black America better. This new more robust site will allow folks to congregate in cyberspace. It's exciting to see this unfold."
On the site visitors can sign the official Covenant pledge, send legislators a copy of the Covenant policy goals, link to voter registration sites, download tools for organizing and research and participate in blogs with Covenant experts, including Smiley, Princeton University professor Cornel West and Angela Glover Blackwell, founder and chief executive officer, PolicyLink. Special areas will include tips on organizing for faith communities, feedback sections, announcements and donor pages.
"The key phrase is now Covenant Connectivity," said Smiley. "Day or night, 24 hours a day anyone can log onto the website and get plugged into the progress of The Covenant."
For more information about The Covenant project, visit www.covenantwithblackamerica.com
About the Covenant with Black America
The Covenant with Black America is a national plan of action to address the primary concerns of African Americans today -- from health to housing, from crime to criminal justice, from education to economic parity. The frustration and angst felt by Black Americans post-Hurricane Katrina, from California to the Carolinas, is palpable. As we move toward the national elections of 2006 and 2008, Black Americans are entitled to have questions answered and visions shared of where our leaders want to take this country and a blueprint for how we get there. For more information visit www.covenantwithblackamerica.com
Is Love Colorblind?
CONTACT:
Michael Pittman
mpittman@ameritech.net
217-528-2998
LOCAL BLACK NEWSPAPER CONTINUES TO DELVE INTO CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES WITH STORY - "INTERRACIAL RELATIONSHIPS: IS LOVE COLOR BLIND?"
Springfield, IL (BlackNews.com) - The Capital City Courier (CCC), a local black newspaper, just keeps examining controversial subjects. Following up on their nationally acclaimed cover stories entitled "Why Can't Blacks Work Together" and "Can Black Women Raise Black Boys To Be Black Men?", this month's issue touches on "Interracial Relationships: Is Love Color Blind". The article, which includes interviews with several interracial couples, has again brought out in the open a simmering debate within the black community. This time the issue is related to the seeming incongruent circumstance that many blacks still have issues with interracial couples while yet acknowledging the historic nature and societal impact of racism itself. Does love truly conquer all?
"It has been my desire from the founding of this newspaper to put into print issues that are being discussed by blacks in private almost everyday throughout our community," stated Michael Pittman, the editor-in-chief of the Capital City Courier. "I continue to believe that if we are going to see ourselves progress as a community, we must be able to raise and discuss the issues that sometimes make us uncomfortable," he continued.
"Some may believe that bringing controversial subjects out into the light of day is simply sensationalism or possibly counterproductive," Pittman stated. "My desire is to place the spotlight on subjects that are sometimes seen as taboo and take the mystery or sting from them by public examination and discussion," he continued.
Pittman once again expressed his desire to spark an evolution in the community's collective viewpoint from the dialogue that results due to the article. "In fact, I hope we can continue with this article to spur similar responses across America much like the other articles," Pittman concluded.
For additional information on the Captial City Courier or the "Interracial Relationships: Is Love Color Blind" article, contact Michael Pittman at (217) 528-2998 or visit the CCC's website at www.capitalcitycourier.org
Black Pre Law Conference
The Second Annual National Black Pre-Law
Admissions & Preparation Conference and Law Fair 2006
Friday – Sunday, September 8-10, 2006
The Magnolia Hotel * Dallas, Texas
Encouraging Excellence, Strategic Thinking, and a Competitive Mindset
Among African American Law School Aspirants
ENTER THE
“I WANT TO BE A BLACK LAWYER”
CONTEST
ATTENTION ASPIRING BLACK LAWYERS!!! YOU COULD WIN FREE REGISTRATION TICKETS TO THE NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE IN DALLAS!!! THE FIRST AND ONLY INFORMATION-SHARING, EMPOWERMENT AND NETWORKING EVENT IN THE COUNTRY FOCUSED ON THE SUCCESS OF FUTURE BLACK LAWYERS!!!
| What you need to do to enter: Write a one-page essay clearly explaining why you want to become a lawyer, what you intend to do with your law degree and why attending the National Black Pre-Law Admissions & Preparation Conference will help you achieve your goal. Where to send your entry: Applicants should send their one (1) page essay to blackprelawconference@gmail.com along with a photo in jpeg format, their name, major(s) classification and the school they attend or graduated from. There is no age limit or requirement that you still be an undergraduate to enter. If you are Black and want to be a lawyer, we encourage you to enter!!! Number of winners/prizes: The winner of the top essay will receive a full free conference registration entitling him or her to entry in all workshop sessions, panel discussions and institutes on Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning, a free ticket to the Friday afternoon private luncheon, and free tickets to the Networking Social and the Legacy Builders Awards Reception, and access to the VIP lounge. The next top five winning essays will receive full free registrations for the conference; The next five runners-up will receive a 50% off fee waiver of the total cost of conference registration and free tickets to the Networking Social and the Legacy Builders Awards Reception. EVERY person who enters the contest will be automatically entered for a drawing to receive free "law-related" prizes and will receive FREE memberships into the National Association of Future Black Law Students (NAFBLS). Deadline: Monday, August 21, 2006. Please note: Although registration is free or half off for contest winners, they are still responsible for their meals, hotel expenses and transportation to Dallas. But it’s worth it. This will be a groundbreaking and historic event!!! . . . A conference team member is available to assist you with any questions and in making arrangements. |    |
Memphis Pink Palace Happenings!
CALENDAR September 06
Crew Training International IMAX® Theater:
Now through June 22, 2007
Mon-Sat, 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 4pm; Sun, 1pm, 3pm, 4pm
Your seat is waiting. No passport required. Toga optional. Sail across the breathtaking Greek Isles, from the rumbling volcanoes of Santorini to the haunting ruins of the Parthenon in
$8 Adults, $7.25 Seniors, $6.25 Children, Under 3 free.
Reservations suggested, call (901) 320-6362.
MAGNIFICENT DESOLATION: WALKING ON THE MOON (All ages)
Now through November 10, 2006
Mon-Sun, 2pm
Only 12 have walked on the moon. You will be next! Magnificent Desolation takes audiences to the lunar surface to walk alongside the 12 extraordinary astronauts who have been there to experience what they saw, heard, felt, thought and did. Co-written, presented and narrated by Tom Hanks, sponsored by Lockheed Martin, in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Local sponsors are Crew Training International and H.W. Durham Foundation.
$8 Adults, $6.25 Children, Under 3 free, Adults 55+ free.
Reservations suggested, call (901) 320-6362.
IMAX® Discovery Room (All ages)
The Greece IMAX Discovery Room is open through October, 2006.
Bodine Exhibit Hall:
BRAIN: THE WORLD INSIDE YOUR HEAD (All ages)
Now through September 10, 2006
Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun 12noon-5pm
Your brain is the essence of you. Alive, changing and full of energy, this essential organ enables us as humans to do what we do and to be who we are. Everyone’s brain is different. People of all ages can explore the mechanics and mystique of the body’s amazing organ in “BRAIN: The World Inside Your Head.” Hands-on, total sensory displays immerse visitors in the brain’s physiology, psychology and mystery in “BRAIN,” developed in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health and made possible by Pfizer Inc.
$8.25 Adults, $7.75 Seniors, $5.75 Children, Under 3 free, For more information, call (901) 320-6362.
BRAIN—OUTSIDE OF YOUR HEAD (All ages)
Now through September 10, 2006
Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun 12noon-5pm
A special exhibit in conjunction with “Brain: The World Inside Your Head.” “Outside of Your Head” features human and animal brains as well as medical models of brains that can be handled by visitors. The exhibition was developed in association with the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Specimens are on loan from UTHSC and the
MODEL TRAINS: ON TRACK IN
October 7 through October 29, 2006 Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun 12noon-5pm
The ”Worlds Greatest Hobby” is on exhibit with a display of model trains from the Memphis Society of Model Railroaders displaying operating model railroad layouts of various scales. The exhibit includes railroad memorabilia from the
$8.25 Adults, $7.75 Seniors, $5.75 Children, Under 3 free, For more information, call (901) 320-6362.
Lobby Exhibit:
JAMES O. PATTERSON, THE BISHOP AND THE MAN (All ages)
Now through November 15, 2006
Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun 12noon-5pm
A new exhibit pays tribute to the ministry of James O. Patterson, and offers a fascinating look into his private life as well in James O. Patterson, The Bishop and The
Sharpe Planetarium:
SOL & COMPANY (ages 8 & up)
Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m., now until further notice
Voted Most Popular by Teachers! Go on a journey with “Sol” and “Astro Nomy” as they visit the members of our solar system – planets, comets and asteroids. Length: 35 minutes.
$4.50 Adults, $4 Seniors, $4 Children, Under 3 free.
No reservations needed, for more information, call (901) 320-6362.
STARLIT NIGHTS (ages 8 & up)
Saturdays, 12 p.m. & 3 p.m., now through September 22, 2006
Familiarize yourself with the night sky in the summer season’s tour of the heavens. As part of the program, learn to identify the summer constellations, find out how they were defined and hear stories about the extraordinary mythological figures for which they were named.
$4.50 Adults, $4 Seniors, $4 Children, Under 3 free.
No reservations needed, for more information, call (901) 320-6362.
AUTUMN NIGHTS
Saturdays, September 23-December 22, 2006, 12 noon and 3 p.m.
Embark on a journey through the fall night sky during this seasonal tour of stars, planets and constellations of autumn including the bright star Vega and the ghostly image of the Andromeda Galaxy. Discover the fascinating history behind autumn’s stars and enjoy some of the year’s best displays of “falling stars” such as the Orionids, Leonids and Geminids.
Family Fun Saturdays Free with regular admission.
Art in Nature September 9, 2006 Saturday, 2-4pm
Night Hike October 14, 2006 Saturday, 6-8pm
Raindrops 10 AM – 11 AM $5.00 Member parent & child $6.00 Non-Member parent & child
September 5/6 Meander in the Marsh September 12/13 Awesome Amphibians
September 19/20 Busy Beavers September 26/27 Animal Senses
October 3/4 Hooray for the Hawk October 10/11 Going Batty
October 17/18 Rainbow of Trees October 24/25 Critter Camouflage
October 31/November 1 Creatures of the Night
Special Events:
Master Gardner Talk “Art in Nature” Friday, September 8, 9am; Saturday, September 9, 1pm
Fall Demonstration Bed Cleaning Tuesdays, September 12 & 19, 9am
Fall Demonstration Bed & Trail Tour Friday, September 22, 9am
Trail Blazin’ Saturday Saturday, September 23, 9am, sign up at Hands On Memphis www.handsonmemphis.org or call 901-725-2132.
Southern Entertainment Awards!
Welcome to the hottest awards show in the South! The Southern Entertainment Awards is here to represent for those responsible for contributing to the growth of southern music. We highlight the accomplishments of the top DJ's, Producers, Recording Artists, Labels, Websites, Retail Stores, Models and Clothing companies in the SOUTH. Our awards show is designed to give credit to those left out by other award shows, and also to shine light on independent artists, but the south as a whole.
We started this awards show in 2004, and had over 752 people in attendance. We exceeded those numbers in 2005 & 2006 with attendance numbers well of over 1,200 people. As we move closer to the 4th Annual Southern Ent. Awards we are expecting over 2,500 people to attend this event during the weekend of Jan 25-28, 2007 at The Grand Casino Resort in Tunica, MS. The Southern Ent Awards now covers all 11 states in the South: (TN, GA, OK, TX, MS, FL, AR, AL, NC SC and LA) and we are currently backed by almost 400 DJs and 200 Independent Record Labels. We represent the "Who's Who" of Entertainment in the South, and it has been noted in various magazine articles that this event has filled a long over-due void in the SOUTH.
The Southern Entertainment Awards is a great place to see and hear some of the HOTTEST MUSIC IN THE SOUTH! We provide a weekend full of activities designed to recognize & promote Southern Music, and at the same time create an ideal environment for networking with various people in the industry. We will, not only bring the South together as a whole, but to also provide a pedestal for Southern Music that the World will have to recognize.
If you record, distribute, market, manufacture, model, advertise or love music, the Southern Entertainment Awards is a MUST ATTEND EVENT for you. We support the mix-tapes, artists, labels, magazines, websites and anyone who not only celebrates Southern Music, but also promotes its advancement. We feel that it is our duty to honor those and broadcast their accomplishments to the World!
Jesse Johnson a.k.a. DJ INFAMOUS
To learn more about this exciting opportunity, log onto www.southernentawards.com. If interested in becoming an official sponsor of the SEA awards contact 615-579-5184.
Memphis Man Hits it Big!
NEWS RELEASE
ON SEPTEMBER 6 IN MEMPHIS
Florence M. Howard
President and Founder
Secret Shop Communicators
SSCOMM, Inc.
P.O. Box 753897
Memphis, TN 38175-3897
Phone: (901) 827-0836
fhsecretshop@prodigy.net