America’s Next Top Model Winner Whitney Thompson Joins NEDA’s Mission to Promote Positive Body Image and Awareness of Eating Disorders. National Eating Disorders Awareness Week is Feb. 21-27th.
LOS ANGELES, CA, February 11, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ — Whitney Thompson, winner of Cycle 10, America’s Next Top Model – and the show’s first “full-figured” victor – has become an official ambassador for the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), joining the battle against eating disorders and unrealistic “body-perfect” ideals.
Commented Thompson, “I am thrilled to be an ambassador for the National Eating Disorders Association. Since winning Top Model, I have heard from thousands of people all over the world who are dealing with eating disorders. I want to support those people affected and their families and I want to help people identify and resist the social stereotypes and images that lead to unhealthy behavioral patterns.”
Commented Lynn Grefe, CEO of NEDA. “We welcome the enthusiasm and energy of Whitney to our cause and the ability of her celebrity to bring a spotlight to a very serious and deadly subject. It is a particular concern within the modeling and fashion industries and the support of Whitney and our other ambassadors are key to changing the way people think about body image.”
Thompson joins other NEDA Ambassadors Emme, supermodel, TV personality, author and women’s advocate; fashion designer Bradley Bayou; celebrity jewelry designer Elizabeth Showers; actress Karla Mosley (Guiding Light); former professional tennis player Zina Garrison; motivational speaker and author Jenni Schaefer; author, documentarian and social theorist Jean Kilbourne, Ed. D.; “actionist,” author and advice columnist Jessica Weiner; personal life coach Kristen Moeller; and Matan Uziel, senior executive of Israeli modeling agency Verbmodels and founder of Warmhome Media Group, an international advertising network.
The announcement comes just prior to observance of the 23rd annual National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Feb. 21-27, and Thompson is supporting the outreach with motivational speaking engagements on college campuses across the country. Additionally, Thompson recently launched Supermodel (www.shopsupermodel.com), a line of scented, soy-based massage oil candles and jewelry, and has committed $1 from each sale as a donation to NEDA.
Themed “It’s Time to Talk About it!” this year, NEDAwareness Week is the non-profit group’s largest public outreach campaign, held each year to raise consciousness across the country about the potentially life-threatening seriousness of eating disorders and the societal pressures, attitudes and behaviors which contribute to them. Also to spread a message of hope: Help is available, recovery is possible and those affected are not alone in their struggle!
Continues Grefe, “It really is time to talk about eating disorders, because people die, with anorexia having the highest death rate of any mental illness. You wouldn’t be ashamed of developing asthma, diabetes, cancer or hundreds of other medical conditions. The sooner we get people to talk about it, the sooner we can get people to the help they need. It is necessary to educate upcoming generations about the issues that surround and lead to eating disorders. And to do that, we also need to address the societal pressures and the unrealistic images we are bombarded with in the media that have been irrefutably and scientifically proven a contributing factor among people who develop eating disorders, depression and other esteem issues.”
NEDAwareness Week 2010 is already generating interest nationwide, with volunteers coordinating events throughout the country using their local media muscle to spread the word about eating disorders. During this week, hundreds of events will be held in communities coast to coast, offering an opportunity for people to gather information and learn how to support those with eating disorders.
LOS ANGELES, CA – What ever happened to beautiful Joslyn Pennywell, the brown skin-toned bombshell who wowed over 30 million plus people from “America’s Next Top Model”? Well, if you believe in luck, then you would have to agree that she had defied BAD luck. The young model persevered by not giving up after auditioning 33 times in various cities in order to win one of the coveted model-contestant spots on “America’s Next Top Model,” the show, which is hosted by Tyra Banks. (See Clips Below)
Her fashion experience began in 2004 with Ebony Fashion Fair as a runway and print model, affording her to tour the US, Canada and Bahamas. She then became National Pageant Queen in the 2007 Miss US Miss Competition. She later participated and won the titles as Miss Jefferson Parish, Miss Congeniality in the Miss Teen Louisiana USA, and Miss Kream.
Beauty, attitude, and having a business edge add to why Joslyn has always been a winner in competitions. But her talents extend far beyond the runway. While juggling her fashion career, this young model was able to attend Grambling State University as a full time student and obtained her bachelor’s degree in business management.
The show has been Joslyn’s spring-board into the modeling stratosphere and has opened up many opportunities in Commercials, Hosting, and Fashion shows. Although cycle 11 is over, this top model’s career is still on the move.
Unprecedented call to action by “Women for Women International” to unite globally and build bridges for peace, development and opportunity
NEW YORK, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ — To honor the resilience of millions of women survivors of war around the world, Women for Women International is hosting a global campaign called, “Join Me on the Bridge.” This unprecedented call to action, on the 99th anniversary of International Women’s Day, March 8th 2010, will highlight the fact the women are 70% of the world’s poor; 75% of the civilians killed in war [along with their children], and earn only 10% of the world income, despite doing 66% of the world’s work. It’s the first time women have led a global movement of this magnitude and geographical scope.
Nowhere is the plight of women’s struggles more evident than in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the site of over 5 million deaths and hundreds of thousands of rapes. The conflict is the worst wince World War II, yet the atrocities continue every day. On March 8th, thousands of women will stand together in Congo and neighboring Rwanda to demand peace, and development. Anastasie Mkwigomba, a participant from the DRC says, “I like Women’s Day, because it’s the day the women get their right to express themselves, to work, and to lead men.” Supporting Anastasie, and others in their calls for war’s end will be thousands of women from the United States, United Kingdom, Bosnia, Kosovo, Sudan and Mexico. Their unified voices will be saying “no” to war and “yes” to peace and hope.
In addition to the women who will be uniting on the border between Rwanda and Congo, major “Join Me on the Bridge” events are planned on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, and in London on the Millennium Bridge. Major politicians, fashion icons, corporate partners, nonprofit organizations, media entities and celebrities are also lending their support to this global call to action. They include Oscar winning actress Vanessa Redgrave, and the first female President of Ireland, Mary Robinson.
Events around the world will be captured by media, film and photography and available on the campaign website: www.womenforwomen.org/bridge.
Background on Women for Women International Since 1993, Women for Women International [WfWI] have empowered more than 250,000 women survivors of war. Thanks to the commitment of women and men in more than 70 countries, WfWI has provided economic assistance, vocational skills training, rights awareness education, emotional support, jobs and business skills training. Described by Time Magazine as being “a life-line for women in war torn countries,” in January 2010, the work of Women for Women International was acknowledged by President Bill Clinton as one of the highlights of his Presidency.
Video compares fight for gay marriage to past civil rights struggles
WASHINGTON, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Justice Through Music, www.jtmp.org, a national non profit that works with famous bands to bring attention to important social issues, teamed up the band Op-Critical in a music video called “Prop 8″ to oppose the California referendum that was used to overturn the state’s gay marriage law. The video, shown above, looks at the struggle for marriage equality through the lens of past struggles for women’s rights, civil rights and voting rights.
Op-Critical’s Storm wrote the tune in a 1930′s Delta Blues style and recorded it on a 1937 National resonator steel guitar. The video was filmed with Storm on a porch, sitting in a rocking chair playing the steel guitar like so many well known blues artists. “The battle for marriage equality is historic in the same way as past civil rights struggles,” he said. “The best way for us to portray that was by channeling past blues masters who sang with conviction about the struggles they were seeing during their lifetimes. The next generation will look back on the gay rights battles with the same dismay we now look at previous civil rights battles. It takes a while for people prejudices to be overcome but they always are. We are hopeful that this video will help and give people a real perspective on what is occurring rather than seeing this as simply a matter of politics or religion.”
Op-Critical has offered the tune for download on its MySpace page, www.myspace.com/opcritical, and is donating 50% of the all download sales to the Courage Campaign, www.couragecampaign.org, which has been one of the leading groups working to overturn the Prop 8 referendum. The video is dedicated to all those who have fought for marriage equality, and Justice Through Music and Op-Critical urge viewers to also support the Human Rights Campaign, www.hrc.org.
Audience Favorite Narrative Feature Award results in three-way tie. Documentary on Black Panthers wins Audience Favorite Documentary Feature Award. ‘From A Whisper’ wins Best Narrative Feature Award.
The Pan African Film & Arts Festival filmmaker awards were hannded out in Los Angeles on Feb. 17 by actress and celebrity host CCH Pounder. (Photo by: Venus Bernardo)
LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Feb. 17, 2010) -The Jury, Audience, Festival, and other special award-winners of the 2010 PAN AFRICAN FILM & FESTIVAL (PAFF) were announced tonight at the Festival’s Awards Ceremony hosted by actress CCH Pounder (Avatar) at the Culver Plaza Theatres (9919 Washington Blvd. Los Angeles). The Kenyan narrative FROM A WHISPER won for Best Narrative Feature. A three-way tie was announced for the Audience Favorite Narrative Award for films SOUL DIASPORA, A STING IN A TALE, and SPEED-DATING. The documentary on the L.A. Black Panthers 41ST & CENTRAL: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE L.A. BLACK PANTHERS won the Audience Favorite Documentary Award.
With the theme “Get Involved,” this year’s PAFF featured 135 films representing 36 countries, including 40 in competition, 64 feature length films, and 12 world premieres.
The films receiving Jury Awards were selected from six categories: Best Feature Documentary, Best Documentary Short, Best Narrative Short, Best Feature Narrative, and First Time Narrative Feature Directing. All films in competition were also eligible for the PAFF’s Audience Awards as selected by Festival audiences. The PAFF Board of Directors and Programmer Festival Awards were awarded to their pick for Best Documentary and Best Narrative film. A special award from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts/Los Angeles Festival Choice Award was awarded to the film FROM A WHISPER.
The Pan African Film and Arts Festival, is America’s largest and most prestigious Black film and arts festival that takes place annually in Los Angeles during the month of February. For more information, please visit www.paff.org.
2010 PAFF FILMMAKER AWARD WINNERS
BEST NARRATIVE FEATURE
From A Whisper (Director: Wanuri Kahiu; Screenwriter: Wanuri Kahiu) – One of the most important films made in the world in this historical period. This stunning narrative revolves on one hand around a Kenyan family that was caught up in the bombing of the American Embassy by Islamist terrorists a few years ago. On one hand it revolves around a daughter’s experience to the bombing, on the other it revolves around Abu, a Muslim intelligence officer who is investigating the bombing. Abu has a complex and deep friendship with one of the terrorists. This film gives riveting and enriching insight into the complex narrative that is our life. Winner of the best picture in Africa last year at the Africa Movie Awards (AMAA). Los Angeles Premiere.
BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
Stolen (Directors: Violeta Ayala & Daniel Fallshaw) – Set against the backdrop of the Sahara, in the Polisario-governed refugee camps, two unsuspecting filmmakers find themselves in the middle of a high-stakes political thriller when the Black Saharawis start talking about a forbidden subject: their freedom. Against the threat of severe consequences, the Black Saharawis reveal to the documentary filmmakers that they are enslaved. This story is all the more frightening because it is true and the issue of modern day slavery is proven to be a widespread reality. US Premiere.
BEST NARRATIVE SHORT
Cred (Director: Sherman Payne; Screenwriter: Sherman Payne) – What do you do when your upstairs neighbor refuses to stop the 24-hour party? You get your homies and prove that you have some cred. Stars Al Thompson.
BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT
For the Best and For the Onion! (Pour Le Meilleur et Pour l’Oignon!)(Director: Elhadj Magori Sani) – The Galmi purple, an onion from Niger, pervades West African markets with 400,000 tons a year. In Galmi, Salamatou has been waiting for her wedding for two years. Her father Yaro, on advice from both her future in-laws and the village gossip, makes a decision: The wedding will take place during the harvest! Yaro is aware that to follow through on his commitment this time, he has to produce more and sell at a higher price…Los Angeles Premiere.
BEST FIRST TIME NARRATIVE FEATURE AWARD FOR DIRECTING
The Harimaya Bridge (Director: Aaron Woolfolk) – Daniel Holder’s father was killed fighting the Japanese during the Second World War…something he thought he had made peace with long ago, until a recent discovery revealed to him the cruel and brutal way in which his father died. So when Daniel’s beloved artist son Mickey takes a job in Japan teaching English, it creates a rift between them. Mickey dies in a traffic accident, and Daniel’s profound regret at their estrangement is matched only by his increased resentment towards Japan…a country he thinks took not only his father, but now his only child as well. Despite these feelings, Daniel goes to Japan to retrieve Mickey’s final paintings. But despite the kindness he is shown and the evidence of the happy life his son led, he cannot let go of his hatred. But some unexpected discoveries about Mickey’s life and legacy change everything for Daniel, forcing him to reassess his feelings and the life he will henceforth lead. Starring Ben Guillory, Saki Takaoka, Misa Shimizu, Danny Glover, Victor Grant.
AUDIENCE FAVORITE-NARRATIVE FEATURE
Soul Diaspora (Director: Odera Ozoka) – Saidu, a Nigerian immigrant living in Los Angeles, must overcome sleepless nights due to his family’s tormented lineage in Africa. He is alone in the world, often hearing voices in his head. The film interweaves through color and black & white to illustrate Saidu’s erratic behavior and mental state. The souls of the characters are stripped to the core by one searing event which gives them all a fresh perspective, exploring the varying shades of grey in life. Los Angeles Premiere.
Speed-Dating (Director: Joseph A. Elmore Jr.)This high-energy romantic comedy follows three bachelors, speeding through life and scheming on women. When it comes to the opposite sex, it’s about the “chase” and “finish line.” Dog and Beaver spend their last dime on a nightclub, while Too Cool devises the ultimate scheme to get women and money – SPEED-DATING! Stars Wesley Johnathan, Chris Elliot, and Holly Robinson Peete. World Premiere.
A Sting in A Tale (Director: Shirley Frimpong-Manso; Screenwriter: Shirley Frimpong-Manso) – Two young couples are striving to survive the harsh realities of life after university; unemployment, uncertainty, desperation and in the middle of it all, love. Kuuku is frustrated with unemployment and is faced with the possibility of losing his true love Frema because Frema’s mother sees no good future in their relationship. With these pressures, Kuuku moves heaven and earth trying to find a good job and a means to provide the future he so desperately seeks for himself, his future wife and kids. He takes the most drastic measure by resorting to rituals and soon after that, Frema passes away. After her death, Kuuku gets a well paying job and becomes a millionaire almost overnight. With the new fortunes comes a new set of problems as his best friend, Nii Aryee starts to envy Kuuku’s wealth and starts asking questions. The ghost of Frema will not rest until the mystery surrounding her death is cleared. What unfolds is a series of unpredictable and hilarious events that would take viewers on a roller-coaster of emotions from laughter to tears and even pity. US Premiere.
AUDIENCE FAVORITE-DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
41st & Central: The Untold Story of the L.A. Black Panthers (Director: Gregory Everett) – 41ST & CENTRAL: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE L.A. BLACK PANTHERS is the first part in a documentary series that follows the Southern California Chapter of the Black Panther Party from its glorious Black Power beginnings through to its tragic demise. Despite the Party’s formation of free medical clinics and a successful breakfast program for children, the L.A. chapter was also known as the most violent Black political group in the United States. 41ST & CENTRAL: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE L.A. BLACK PANTHERS explores the Black Panther ethos, its conflict with the L.A.P.D. and the US Organization, as well as the events that shaped the complicated and often contradictory legacy of the L.A. chapter. 41ST & CENTRAL: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE L.A. BLACK PANTHERS contains interviews with former Black Panther Party members along with archival footage detailing the history of racism in Los Angeles, including the Watt’s uprising from the perspective of the participants who “engaged with the L.A.P.D.” 41ST & CENTRAL: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE L.A. BLACK PANTHERS is the most in-depth study ever of the L.A. Chapter founder Alpretice “Bunchy Carter” and features first hand accounts of the Party’s formation as told by the original surviving members. This film gives the viewer an eyewitness account of Bunchy and John Huggins murders at U.C.L.A. in 1968 and includes exclusive interviews with Black Panther Party leaders Geronimo Ji Jagga and Elaine Brown. Also featured are former Black Panther members Ericka Huggins, Roland & Ronald Freeman, Wayne Pharr, Jeffrey Everett, Long John Washington, Muhammad Mubarak, former L.A.P.D. Chief Bernard Parks, US Organization member Wesley Kabaila, U.C.L.A. Professor Scot Brown, and many others.
PAFF PROGRAMMER AWARD-NARRATIVE
Everyday Black Man (Director: Carmen Madden) – Since closing the door on a violent past, quiet and thoughtful Moses Stanton’s everyday existence is running a small neighborhood fruit and vegetable store. When a young man, Malik, comes in with a business proposition, Moses takes him on as a partner but soon realizes that Malik is selling more than just baked goods. Produced by Dwayne Wiggins, formally of Tony, Toni, Tone. Los Angeles Premiere.
PAFF PROGRAMMER AWARD-DOCUMENTARY
Sweet Crude (Director: Sandy Cioffi) – A scathing look at the politics, the people and the spin surrounding the policies in the Nigerian Delta. Although it is one of the most oil rich regions on Earth and the source of much of oil the products used in the U.S., the people living in the area do not share in the enormous wealth generated by the precious natural resource.
PAFF BOARD OF DIRECTORS AWARD-NARRATIVE
Nothing But the Truth (Director: John Kani) – Film written by John Kani one of South Africa’s top actors. This film is an in depth look at a major issue in South Africa today and indeed in all societies that have been created from a revolutionary struggle. The story revolves around a middle age man who did not participate in the liberation struggle. He opted to sit out the liberation struggle and remain at his post as a junior librarian in apartheid South Africa. On the other hand, his brother joined the liberation struggle and became a hero. The film deals with sibling rivalry cut across with the social political and psychological contradictions that have always played out in any liberation struggle. Los Angeles Premiere.
PAFF BOARD OF DIRECTORS AWARD-DOCUMENTARY
Motherland (Director: Owen ‘Alik Shahadah) – From the director of the internationally acclaimed “500 Years Later” comes this gem of a film. Tracing the past and with an eye to the future, the film examines the current African landscape. Featuring an all-star cast of African Presidents and thinkers including Dr. Maulana Karenga, the father of Kwanzaa, and Dr. Molefi Asante. World Premiere.
About the Pan African Film & Arts Festival
Taking place February 10-17 in Los Angeles at the Culver Plaza Theatre (9919 Washington Blvd.), the 2010 PAFF presented and showcased a broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes of Africans and African-Americans. In addition to the film festival, the PAFF presented its world renowned Art Show February 12-15 at the Westfield Culver Plaza (6000 Sepulveda Blvd. Culver City), featuring over 100 fine artists and craftspeople from around the world showcasing the best in Black fine art, sculpture, photography, unique handmade crafts, home furnishings, designer jewelry, designer fashions and accessories that highlight the artistry and beauty of the African aesthetic. For more information, please visit www.paff.org or call (310) 337-4737.
It is PAFF’s goal to present and showcase the broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes. The PAFF believes film and art can lead to better understanding and foster communication between peoples of diverse cultures, races, and lifestyles, while at the same time, serve as a vehicle to initiate dialogue on the important issues of our times.
The 18th Annual Pan African Film and Arts Festival is an official event of Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s Black History Month Celebration and is supported in part by: the City of Los Angeles, the Department of Cultural Affairs, and Los Angeles County Arts Commission with support from Los Angeles 8th District Council Member Bernard Parks Sr., Los Angeles 9th District Council Member Jan Perry, Los Angeles 10th District Council Member Herb Wesson Jr., Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, California State Senator Curren D. Price Jr., Assemblymember Karen Bass, and Assemblymember Steve Bradford. The 2010 PAFF is an official recipient of the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009.
2010 sponsors include: Macy’s, Wells Fargo Bank, Mc Donald’s USA, Water Replenishment District of Southern California, US Bank, TV5 Monde, the French Consulate, Goethe Institute Los Angeles, PXP, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, United States Census 2010 Road Tour, AARP, South African Airways, Ethiopian Airways, Coca-Cola, Red Tea Rooibos, Ceres, Izze Sparking Juice, Time Warner Cable, The Africa Channel, KPFK, Our Weekly Newspaper, The Immigrant Magazine, LaHitz Media, African Trumpet, Directors Guild of America, Sony Pictures, and 21st Century Fox.
“Crazy Art,” a new documentary profiling three artists with schizophrenia, has just premiered at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. The DVD of the informative and moving 58-minute film goes on sale in March. See Facebook fan page “Crazy Art” for details about purchasing DVD and more information.
“Crazy Art” tells the story of three schizophrenic artists from Santa Barbara, California. The film follows their lifelong struggle with mental illness and examines their search for identity, acceptance and recovery through their unique and thought provoking art.
Their normal childhoods were soon shattered with the onset of schizophrenia. Not understanding the delusions and seemingly constant bombardment of negative voices in their heads, they turned to drugs and alcohol in an attempt to find inner peace through self destructive behavior and suicide attempts.
Each of them has taken a different path to get to where they are today. However they all share the common bond of finding their only solace by creating art. ‘Without art, I wouldn’t be alive,’ is voiced by all three. Art provides them with the satisfaction of creation, the ability to ‘push the voices aside,’ and the chance to have an identity previously stolen by their illness.
But art isn’t the panacea. It is not the cure. All three artists continue their battle with schizophrenia. They still hear voices and ‘channel messages from a higher power.’ They need strong medication. They still battle addictive tendencies. They still have manic and psychotic episodes. The support of their friends, families and admirers make up the crucial network of relationships that together, with their art, provide the only hope of recovery.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 10 /PRNewswire/ — The Ehlers Group, the award-winning strategic marketing and communications company, is seeking 365 Senior Love Stories.
The company, which specializes in marketing programs for senior housing communities, kicks off its quest for 365 Senior Love Stories on Valentine’s Day, for a book being compiled by authors Janis Ehlers and Kerry Green.
“We are often inspired after meeting residents at our clients’ communities,” said Ehlers. “They have such rich histories. From their first meeting and courtship to when they married and their early lives, these are wonderful heartfelt stories that need to be written down.”
The idea for the book was sparked during a visit to The Carlisle, a retirement community in Naples, Fla. Residents Jim and Winnie Perrill shared the story of their second marriage with Ehlers, who thought the romantic couple’s life sounded like a Lifetime Television movie.
“They are so in love and happy,” said Ehlers. “Everyone enjoys hearing a great love story.”
Entries for 365 Senior Love Stories must be submitted by May 31, 2010. Additional submission guidelines include:
At least one party must be at least 70 years at the time of submission;
Both parties must be living when submission is made;
Submission may be written by the couple, relatives or third-parties on their behalf;
Submissions must be no more than 400 words (include how the couple met, courtship, wedding ceremony, length of marriage, etc.);
Submissions must be typewritten and include the full names of the couple, address and telephone contact information for verification;
The published story will contain only first names and ages;
Submissions without telephone numbers cannot be considered;
Submissions may be rewritten and shortened at the discretion of authors;
Authors reserve the right to select the love stories for publication and will notify the submitters in advance of the selection;
If you would like to submit a photo(s), it could be a wedding photo or a recent photo. Pictures need to include the couples’ names and a photographer’s name if credit is required. Pictures can not be returned. Image requirements: JPEG file format and 300 dpi.
COLUMBUS, OH — The King Arts Complex is proud to present African Art Tradition & Influence: Woodrow Nash Sculptor, Thursday, February 11, 2010 through Wednesday, March 26, 2010. African Art Tradition & Influence will showcase traditional African Art from the Keith Neal African Art Gallery.
This exhibition will feature life-size bronze statues from Benin and wood sculptures from different African cultures that relates to clan ancestry. Complimenting the traditional works will be master artist Woodrow Nash, whose influences were African and European sculptures. “The expression on the faces of the torsos and life size sculptors elevate the human spirit and penetrates the consciousness of the viewer,” say Bettye Stull, Head Curator of the King Arts Complex.
Nash’s male and female sculptures incorporate various styles and techniques utilizing stoneware, earthenware, terracotta or porcelain decorating them with ornamental motifs derived from natural forms. African Nouveau is the term used to describe Nash’s body of work.
Opening Reception for African Art Tradition & Influence Woodrow Nash will be Thursday, February 11, 2010 from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. in the Elijah Pierce Gallery.
This exhibition is generously underwritten by The Wohlgemuth Herschede Foundation.
For more information, call The King Arts Complex at 614-645-KING (5464) or visit www.thekingartscomplex.com.
Glynn Turman to receive the PAFF Lifetime Achievement Award
February, 8, 2010, LOS ANGELES — The Pan African Film and Arts Festival (PAFF), America’s largest and most prestigious Black film and arts festival, has announced Emmy award-winning actor Glynn Turman (“Cooley High,” “The Wire”) as the 2010 PAFF Lifetime Achievement Award honoree. Taking place Friday, February 12 (7 p.m.) at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center (4718 Washington Boulevard, Los Angeles), the PAFF Night of Tribute is a star-studded red carpet affair that is televised on The Africa Channel (www.theafricachannel.com) and shown nationally and internationally throughout Africa, the Caribbean, and Europe. Other distinguished honorees include: Pioneer Award recipient film director F. Gary Gray (“The Italian Job,” “A Man Apart”); Beah Richards Award recipient actress Tatyana Ali (“The Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” “Love That Girl”); Canada Lee Award recipient actor Nate Parker (“The Secret Life of Bees,” “The Great Debaters,” “Blood Done Sign My Name”); Nigerian filmmaker and founder of the influential African Academy of Motion Pictures Peace Anyiam-Fiberesima, recipient of the PAFF/African Channel Visionary Award; and Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, Community Service Award recipient. This year’s Night of Tribute will be hosted by the PAFF 2010 Celebrity Host actress CCH Pounder.
The star-studded event will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, February 12 at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center located at 4718 Washington Boulevard in Los Angeles. For tickets and more information, visit www.paff.org or call (310) 337-4737. The PAFF Night of Tribute is sponsored in part by The Africa Channel (www.theafricachannel.com)and Time Warner Cable.
The 2008 PAFF Night of Tribute broadcast won the prestigious 2009 Vision Award from the National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC) which honors achievements in television programming diversity.
(one of the films at the PAFF screening this year)
About the Pan African Film & Arts Festival
Taking place February 10-17 in Los Angeles at the Culver Plaza Theatre (9919 Washington Blvd.), PAFF presents and showcases a broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes of Africans and African-Americans. In addition to the film festival, the PAFF will present its world renowned Art Show February 12-15 at the Westfield Culver Plaza (6000 Sepulveda Blvd. Culver City), featuring over 100 fine artists and craftspeople from around the world showcasing the best in Black fine art, sculpture, photography, unique handmade crafts, home furnishings, designer jewelry, designer fashions and accessories that highlight the artistry and beauty of the African aesthetic. For more information, please visit www.paff.org or call (310) 337-4737.
It is PAFF’s goal to present and showcase the broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes. The PAFF believes film and art can lead to better understanding and foster communication between peoples of diverse cultures, races, and lifestyles, while at the same time, serve as a vehicle to initiate dialogue on the important issues of our times.
The 18th Annual Pan African Film and Arts Festival is an official event of Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s Black History Month Celebration and is supported in part by: the City of Los Angeles, the Department of Cultural Affairs, and Los Angeles County Arts Commission with support from Los Angeles 8th District Council Member Bernard Parks Sr., Los Angeles 9th District Council Member Jan Perry, Los Angeles 10th District Council Member Herb Wesson Jr., Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, California State Senator Curren D. Price Jr., Assemblymember Karen Bass, and Assemblymember Steve Bradford. The 2010 PAFF is an official recipient of the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009.
2010 sponsors include: Macy’s, Wells Fargo Bank, Mc Donald’s USA, Water Replenishment District of Southern California, US Bank, TV5 Monde, the French Consulate, Goethe Institute Los Angeles, PXP, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, United States Census 2010 Road Tour, AARP, South African Airways, Ethiopian Airways, Coca-Cola, Red Tea Rooibos, Ceres, Izze Sparking Juice, Time Warner Cable, The Africa Channel, KPFK, Our Weekly Newspaper, The Immigrant Magazine, LaHitz Media, African Trumpet, Directors Guild of America, Sony Pictures, and 21st Century Fox.
Largest international Black film festival to screen 135 films from 36 countries, including 12 world premieres
Festival to take place February 10-17, 2010 in Los Angeles.
a scene from “Stolen,” nominated for Best Documentary Feature
February 10, 2010, LOS ANGELES — The Pan African Film and Arts Festival (PAFF), America’s largest and most prestigious international Black film and arts festival has announced its 2010 lineup of films selected to be screened for its Best Documentary Feature, Best Documentary Short, Best Narrative Short, Best Narrative Feature, and Best First Feature film competitions. In total, 135 films were selected representing 36 countries, including 40 in competition, 64 feature length films, and 12 films at the Festival will be world premieres. The PAFF filmmaker awards will be announced on Feb. 17 at the Closing Night Presentation (7 p.m.).
Themed, “Get Involved, Take Action!,” this year’s PAFF is presenting the US Premiere of “Stolen,” which reveals practices of modern day slavery in the Western Sahara, Morocco, and by reference throughout North Africa. The PAFF is initiating a Community Action Panel at the festival to explore the controversial claims the film illustrates in an effort to ignite their audience to get involved with the filmmakers’ mission to bring assistance to the Black Saharawis who are featured in the film and, as a result, are facing intimidation from powerful forces. With the use of “Stolen” and other thought-provoking films screening throughout the festival, PAFF will challenge its audiences to get informed, get involved, and take action! The “Stolen” screening & Community Action Panel will take place Saturday, Feb. 13 at 4:45 p.m.
In addition, the PAFF is realizing its theme by organizing screenings of the powerful film “Haiti: The Sleeping Giant” to raise money for Haitian relief efforts. 100% of the proceeds raised from ticket sales will be donated to the Haitian Emergency Relief Fund. The film will screen numerous times throughout the course of the festival and the PAFF is encouraging attendees to prioritize incorporating this film into their calendar. Aside from providing the highly needed assistance for Haiti, the film screenings will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the historical and political history that has led to Haiti’s current condition.
“This year, I am proud that we have expanded on the nearly 20 year tradition of presenting dynamic and engaging films by proposing a challenge to our attending audience to get involved,” shared PAFF Senior Programmer Sharifa Johka. “Audiences will discover that many of this year’s films have a thematic thread of activism and I am impressed with how well filmmakers represent the reality of living in historic times and I look forward to witnessing how the attending audience will respond to our challenge.”
This year’s Festival will again take place at the Culver Plaza Theatres (9919 Washington Boulevard) in Los Angeles. However, the Festival’s coveted Art Market will take place at the Westfield Culver Plaza in Culver City (6000 Sepulveda Boulevard), instead of the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza.
The Festival’s Opening Night Gala will feature the world premiere of “Blood Done Sign My Name,” which opens nationally on February 19th from Paladin and stars Nate Parker as notable Civil Rights activist Dr. Ben Chavis, along with an ensemble cast that includes Lela Rochon, Omar Benson Miller, Afemo Omilami, Golden Globe- winner Ricky Schroeder, Nick Searcy, Michael Rooker, Darrin Dewitt Henson, and Gattlin Griffith. The film is an adaptation of the best-selling book by Timothy Tyson and is written and directed by Jeb Stuart. Cast members and Dr. Chavis will be present at the screening. The event will be hosted by award winning actress CCH Pounder (“Avatar,” “Brothers”). Taking place, Wednesday, February 10 (7 p.m.) at the Directors Guild of America, PAFF’s Opening Night Gala is one of the most glamorous red carpet Hollywood film events that attract Hollywood A-list celebrities and kicks off one of America’s largest Black History Month events.
This year’s Pan African Film & Arts Festival runs February 10-17 in Los Angeles, California. For more information, including how to purchase tickets, please visit www.paff.org or call (310) 337-4737.
Find the full list of films in competition below!
NARRATIVE FEATURE COMPETITION
Aldewolem (He Didn’t Call) (Director: Maher Sabry; Screenwriter: Maher Sabry)- A romantic comedy. Tihut is set up to make a fool out of her best friend’s cousin, Melhik, who is desperately seeking a sweetheart. Thinking that she has no idea about his identity, Melhik tries to charm the young girl he only knows as Lily into falling for him. Tihut plays around at first, but as she gets to know Melhik, her world turns upside down as she starts to seriously wonder whether she has feelings for the supposed “victim” of her friend’s mischievous plots and whether she could ever reveal her true identity. Los Angeles Premiere.
All My Life (Toul Omry) (Director: Yetnayet Bahru; Screenwriter: Yetnayet Bahru)- For Rami, all is for the best in this best of all possible worlds, as long as he keeps to himself. But when his longtime lover leaves him to marry a woman and his best friends drift away, he comes face to face with the harsh realities of life as a gay man in Egypt. Against the backdrop of the choreographed crackdown on gay men and the notorious Queen Boat arrests of 2001, he plunges into a world of loveless friendships and spirals downwards to his ultimate downfall. Los Angeles Premiere.
Bike (Director: Vanz Chapman; Screenwriter: Errol Williams & Vanz Chapman) – An elegant coming-of-age story about crime and friendship set in Bermuda. The story follows Jason, 16, whose desire for freedom and independence center on getting a motorbike to traipse around the tiny island. Los Angeles Premiere.
Bilal’s Stand (Director: Sultan Sharrief; Screenwriter: Sultan Sharrief) – Bilal, a Muslim high school senior, works at his family’s long-owned taxi stand. “The Stand,” as they call it, has been the source of all activity and money for the family for the last sixty years. It seems like Bílal is about to carry the torch. He secretly submits a college application and takes up the art of ice carving in order to win a scholarship. However, he is forced to decide whether he will continue working at the Stand – the only life he’s ever known – or take a chance at social mobility. The film is based on a true story and deals with issues of education, religion, community values, and social prosperity. Los Angeles Premiere.
Darfur (Director: Uwe Boll; Screenwriters: Uwe Boll and Chris Roland) – American journalists in Sudan are confronted with the dilemma of whether to return home to report on the atrocities they have seen, or to stay behind and help some of the victims they have encountered. Starring Billy Zane, Edward Furlong and Hakeem Kae-Kazim.
From A Whisper (Director: Wanuri Kahiu; Screenwriter: Wanuri Kahiu) – One of the most important films made in the world in this historical period. This stunning narrative revolves on one hand around a Kenyan family that was caught up in the bombing of the American Embassy by Islamist terrorists a few years ago. On one hand it revolves around a daughter’s experience to the bombing, on the other it revolves around Abu, a Muslim intelligence officer who is investigating the bombing. Abu has a complex and deep friendship with one of the terrorists. This film gives riveting and enriching insight into the complex narrative that is our life. Winner of the best picture in Africa last year at the Africa Movie Awards (AMAA). Los Angeles Premiere.
Gugu & Andile (Director: Minky Schlesinger; Screenwriters: Lodi Matsetela & Minky Schlesinger) – In 1993 democracy is at hand but South Africa’s townships are burning. Based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Gugu, a Zulu, falls in love with Andile, a Xhosa, only to find that during these troubled times, the forbidden love is frowned upon by both communities.
Heart of the Lion (Coeur de Lion) (Director: Boubakar Diallo; Screenwriter: Boubakar Diallo) – A lion is destroying the cattle. Men are disappearing. The whole village is frightened and the chief is distraught. Samba is determined to track the animal. With the help of a young hunter, the lion is killed. But a crucial problem remains: why are men disappearing? Los Angeles Premiere.
Mah Saah-Sah (Director: Daniel Kamwa; Screenwriter: Daniel Kamwa) – Nchare and Mapon have loved each other since childhood. Now grown, Nchare must excel in village customs for Mapon’s hand in marriage. Although his pursuit is successful on the eve of their engagement an unexpected rivalry pops up when illness causes Mapon’s father to accept financial help from a generous businessman whose eyes are set on Mapon becoming his fourth wife. West Coast Premiere.
A Sting in A Tale (Director: Shirley Frimpong-Manso; Screenwriter: Shirley Frimpong-Manso) – Two young couples are striving to survive the harsh realities of life after university; unemployment, uncertainty, desperation and in the middle of it all, love. Kuuku is frustrated with unemployment and is faced with the possibility of losing his true love Frema because Frema’s mother sees no good future in their relationship. With these pressures, Kuuku moves heaven and earth trying to find a good job and a means to provide the future he so desperately seeks for himself, his future wife and kids. He takes the most drastic measure by resorting to rituals and soon after that, Frema passes away. After her death, Kuuku gets a well paying job and becomes a millionaire almost overnight. With the new fortunes comes a new set of problems as his best friend, Nii Aryee starts to envy Kuuku’s wealth and starts asking questions. The ghost of Frema will not rest until the mystery surrounding her death is cleared. What unfolds is a series of unpredictable and hilarious events that would take viewers on a roller-coaster of emotions from laughter to tears and even pity. US Premiere.
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE COMPETITION
Go-Bama Between Hope & Dreams (Director: A. Rahman Satti) – Afro-German filmmaker Rahman Satti follows a path of self-discovery as he follows Barack Obama’s presidential campaign from New Hampshire to Los Angeles to Berlin – the director’s home – and back to Chicago for election night. Inspired to make the film after reading our president’s memoir “Dreams From My Father,” Satti follows the historic campaign trail in a way nobody has ever seen. World Premiere.
Motherland (Director: Owen ‘Alik Shahadah) – From the director of the internationally acclaimed “500 Years Later” comes this gem of a film. Tracing the past and with an eye to the future, the film examines the current African landscape. Featuring an all-star cast of African Presidents and thinkers including Dr. Maulana Karenga, the father of Kwanzaa, and Dr. Molefi Asante. World Premiere.
The Other Side of the Water: The Journey of a Haitian Rara Band in Brooklyn (Director: Jeremy Robins) – The Other Side of the Water follows an epic journey of the Haitian-American Community, told through the lens of a vodou-based musical ritual that’s taken place for the last 20 years in a corner of a Brooklyn Park. The story of this unlikely procession and the musicians behind it offers a unique insight into the urban immigrant experience, and a rare glimpse into the music, spirituality, and cultural activism in Haitian-America.
Rwanda Beyond the Deadly Pit (Director: Gilbert Ndahayo) – Winter 2007. A Rwandan aspiring filmmaker emotionally resurfaces to confront face to face with his parents’ murderers. He frames the perpetrators within 5 ft of distance. 18 months earlier, the filmmaker had visited the grave of an Italian nun next to his grandfather’s in a church’s crypt of 10,000 bodies. Filmed over the course of three years, Rwanda: Beyond The Deadly is the first film ever made by a genocide survivor. World Premiere.
Soundtrack for A Revolution (Directors: Bill Guttentag & Dan Sturman) – The story of the civil rights movement told through its powerful music–the freedom songs protesters sang on picket lines, in mass meetings, in paddy wagons, and in jail cells. Featuring new performances by artists John Legend, Joss Stone, Wyclef Jean, and The Roots; riveting archival footage; and interviews with Congressman John Lewis, Harry Belafonte, Julian Bond, and Ambassador Andrew Young.
Stolen (Directors: Violeta Ayala & Daniel Fallshaw) – Set against the backdrop of the Sahara, in the Polisario-governed refugee camps, two unsuspecting filmmakers find themselves in the middle of a high-stakes political thriller when the Black Saharawis start talking about a forbidden subject: their freedom. Against the threat of severe consequences, the Black Saharawis reveal to the documentary filmmakers that they are enslaved. This story is all the more frightening because it is true and the issue of modern day slavery is proven to be a widespread reality. US Premiere.
Sweet Crude (Director: Sandy Cioffi) – A scathing look at the politics, the people and the spin surrounding the policies in the Nigerian Delta. Although it is one of the most oil rich regions on Earth and the source of much of oil the products used in the U.S., the people living in the area do not share in the enormous wealth generated by the precious natural resource.
Toumast: Guitars and Kalashnikovs (Director: Dominique Margot) – A musical journey centered around the former rebel turned musician, Moussa ag Keyna, retracing the recent history of the Tuaregs which is fragmented not only with wandering, revolt and injustice–but also movement and hope.
Vietnam: American Holocaust (Director: Clay Claiborne) – The Vietnam War has never left our national consciousness. On the contrary, it has more relevance now than ever. Carefully planned and executed by presidents of both parties, with over 5 million people killed, Vietnam was one of the worst cases of sustained mass slaughter in history. Provocative and alarming, this exposé points to the fabrications of the Gulf of Tonkin Incident and raises the question of whether JFK was assassinated to promote the War. Narrated by Martin Sheen.
You Didn’t See Anything in Kinshasa (Tu n’as rien vu à Kinshasa) (Director: Mweze Ngangura) – Kinshasa is the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa’s third largest country and the second megalopolis of sub-Saharan Africa. This film describes different groups of vulnerable people, whose lives fly below the radar of most observers of daily life in the Congolese capital. Living at the lowest level of a social system in which 95% of the population works in the informal sector, these groups have their own social organization and hierarchy. Resourcefulness is the key to survival. Those underground communities could be seen as small governments. For them, it may be a call for a more concrete involvement of the Government in their daily life. All the witnesses we met confirmed this same desire. The film states clearly that aspiring to a better social equality, democracy and good governance is not an abstract concept but the very foundation of true development.
NARRATIVE SHORT COMPETITION
Charity (Director:Lansana Mansaray) – Charity is the final short film that we worked on as an entire group. It was created from video diaries about the present day. The film explores delicate family dynamics in desperate times. A gift can be both a blessing and a curse, causing jealousy between brothers. This story mirrors the mixed blessing of the massive amount of international support and assistance Sierra Leone received during the UN peacekeeping mission. How do you maintain what is your own identity and learn how to grow independently when you receive support from others. Sermon was written and performed by Arthur Pratt who in addition to his work with WeOwnTV is a pastor in the Freetown area. US Premiere.
Cred (Director: Sherman Payne; Screenwriter: Sherman Payne) – What do you do when your upstairs neighbor refuses to stop the 24-hour party? You get your homies and prove that you have some cred. Stars Al Thompson.
Fitlha (Hidden Places) (Director: Matthew Jankes & Jamie Beron; Screenwriter: Matthew Jankes) – Fithla tells the tale of three childhood friends still haunted by the accidental killing of a shop owner’s son. Twelve years later, when the body they thought was buried forever is discovered, their worlds are turned upside down as they come to terms with their dark secret. US Premiere.
A History of Independence (Director: Daouda Coulibaly) – It is the early 1960s; Nama and Siré have just married. Nama decides to make his home in a cave where he will lead a hermit’s life and devote himself to God. One day, God sends an angel to Nama to thank him for being so devoted and asks Nama to make three wishes. Monologues in the voice-over clash with the images, while establishing an compelling parallel between marriage and freedom; and women’s independence and mistaken values. The different voices express different interpretations of freedom and independence. Los Angeles Premiere.
Killer Necklace (Director: Judy Kibinge) – Adapted from a short graphic novel, this stylish drama tells of the chasm between rich and poor in contemporary Kenya. A young man from a sprawling Nairobi ghetto, trying to stay away from the enticements of crime, longs to buy his girlfriend the gold necklace that she covets. Nothing is as it seems as the story unfolds and its layers unravel, sinking him deeper into trouble and debt than he ever imagined possible.
Undisclosed (Director: Daniel Mosley; Screenwriter: Daniel Mosley) – Fareed, a married mathematics professor, dreams of living and teaching in America. Everything is fine until a stranger turns his world upside down. He is arrested and interrogated. Maintaining his innocence, a determined Fareed pleads for justice. He is left with no answers as he is released and tries to rebuild his life. Fareed wants to right wrongs committed against him. But how far will he go in his quest? World Premiere.
Weakness (Director: Wanjiru Kairu; Screenwriter: Abdu Simba) – Nicky, an alcoholic on the road to recovery has a problem. Severely in debt to his belligerent older brother Robbie, Nicky needs yet another loan to tide him over, on this occasion to pay the fees for his teenage daughter Lola to attend college. But when the sibling rivalry boils over, the brothers get more than they bargained for. US Premiere.
Yolanda (Director: Jo Horn; Screenwriter: Mpotseng Mdakane) – A boy boastfully tells his friends about his first sexual experience to gain their respect and validation. This is his first giant step into their world and he can sense acceptance is on the horizon. Lira, the only girl in the group, exposes a truth Kelvin is not willing to accept. She accuses him of being a gay because his girlfriend “Yolanda” is rumored to be a boy. Refusing to believe the rumor and distraught about the possibility of the truth, the boy attempts to prove his girlfriend’s sexuality to restore his reputation.
DOCUMENTARY SHORT COMPETITION
A Day Without Mines (Director: Adisa) – A story of hope, courage and triumph. Set against the backdrop of the West African country of Sierra Leone, the filmmakers embark on a journey to excavate the children from the diamond mines by hosting an all day soccer tournament. The film gives you a glimpse of the human spirit and the possibility of a new day emerging. Los Angeles Premiere.
Ebony Goddess: Queen Il Ay (Director: Carolina Moraes-Liu) – Three women compete in the annual event in which Ilê Aiyê chooses its Carnival queen, using an Afro-Centric notion of beauty. The contest has a close association with the African-originated religion Candomblé and has a role in reshaping the idea of what is beautiful in a society where African descendents constitute the majority of the population, but Eurocentric concepts of female beauty are pervasive. The figure of the Ebony Goddess, a key visual element of a spectacle that creates an alternative view of Black woman as beautiful, desirable, and talented, promotes social change at its most basic level: the individual sense of self.
The Little Princess and the Sand School (Director: Stéphanie Gillard) – For nomadic children in North Africa most of the time school is but a distant dream. In Mali, Tuaregs try to keep their traditional way of life as nomadic shepherds and at the same time to participate actively in contemporary social changes, so school has become a matter of survival. For a very lucky group of nomadic children this dream is about to become a reality. The first-hand accounts of the children become the centerpiece for this love letter to the power of education.
For the Best and For the Onion! (Pour Le Meilleur et Pour l’Oignon!) (Director: Elhadj Magori Sani) – The Galmi purple, an onion from Niger, pervades West African markets with 400,000 tons a year. In Galmi, Salamatou has been waiting for her wedding for two years. Her father Yaro, on advice from both her future in-laws and the village gossip, makes a decision: The wedding will take place during the harvest! Yaro is aware that to follow through on his commitment this time, he has to produce more and sell at a higher price…Los Angeles Premiere.
Forgotten Bird of Paradise (Director: Dominic Brown) – Filmed undercover and without the knowledge or authority of the Indonesian authorities, Forgotten Bird of Paradise provides a rare and moving insight into the forgotten struggle for independence that has gripped West Papua for over 45 years. It includes never before seen footage of Papuan rebel fighters at their stronghold deep in the jungle as well as interviews with human rights victims of the Indonesian regime.
Share and Share Alike (Director: Melissa A. Gomez) – There are few bonds stronger than the collective love and values of a West Indian family. Three Antiguan brothers fight for their brother who was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia 25 years ago. Their story is an example of what “family” should be about. US Premiere.
BEST FIRST FEATURE COMPETITION
Bike (Director: Vanz Chapman; Screenwriter: Errol Williams & Vanz Chapman) – An elegant coming-of-age story about crime and friendship set in Bermuda. The story follows Jason, 16, whose desire for freedom and independence center on getting a motorbike to traipse around the tiny island. Los Angeles Premiere.
Bilal’s Stand (Director: Sultan Sharrief; Screenwriter: Sultan Sharrief) – Bilal, a Muslim high school senior, works at his family’s long-owned taxi stand. “The Stand,” as they call it, has been the source of all activity and money for the family for the last sixty years. It seems like Bílal is about to carry the torch. He secretly submits a college application and takes up the art of ice carving in order to win a scholarship. However, he is forced to decide whether he will continue working at the Stand – the only life he’s ever known – or take a chance at social mobility. The film is based on a true story and deals with issues of education, religion, community values, and social prosperity. Los Angeles Premiere.
The Harimaya Bridge (Director: Aaron Woolfolk) – Daniel Holder’s father was killed fighting the Japanese during the Second World War…something he thought he had made peace with long ago, until a recent discovery revealed to him the cruel and brutal way in which his father died. So when Daniel’s beloved artist son Mickey takes a job in Japan teaching English, it creates a rift between them. Mickey dies in a traffic accident, and Daniel’s profound regret at their estrangement is matched only by his increased resentment towards Japan…a country he thinks took not only his father, but now his only child as well. Despite these feelings, Daniel goes to Japan to retrieve Mickey’s final paintings. But despite the kindness he is shown and the evidence of the happy life his son led, he cannot let go of his hatred. But some unexpected discoveries about Mickey’s life and legacy change everything for Daniel, forcing him to reassess his feelings and the life he will henceforth lead. Starring Ben Guillory, Saki Takaoka, Misa Shimizu, Danny Glover, Victor Grant.
Pro-Black Sheep (Director: Clayton Broomes, Jr.) – A character-driven drama about a young, extraordinary intellectual who is discovered as the political critic sending out anonymous letters and emails that criticize today’s black leadership for undermining the progress of black America. Instead of holding it against him, the black leader who finds him out hires him as a second adviser, which becomes a journey of a young man finding his own voice and daring to shout it out if he intends on making a difference in society. West Coast Premier.
Soul Diaspora (Director: Odera Ozoka) – Saidu, a Nigerian immigrant living in Los Angeles, must overcome sleepless nights due to his family’s tormented lineage in Africa. He is alone in the world, often hearing voices in his head. The film interweaves through color and black & white to illustrate Saidu’s erratic behavior and mental state. The souls of the characters are stripped to the core by one searing event which gives them all a fresh perspective, exploring the varying shades of grey in life. Los Angeles Premiere.
Everyday Black Man (Director: Carmen Madden) – Since closing the door on a violent past, quiet and thoughtful Moses Stanton’s everyday existence is running a small neighborhood fruit and vegetable store. When a young man, Malik, comes in with a business proposition, Moses takes him on as a partner but soon realizes that Malik is selling more than just baked goods. Produced by Dwayne Wiggins, formally of Tony, Toni, Tone. Los Angeles Premiere.
I ran across this on the internet and thought the concept of an online church was an interesting topic for discussion. Thoughts?
The Joy of Jesus is an on-line church that offers its members the Word of god and prayers for the world. So many people spend their waking time on-line. Why not worship on-line?
February 6, 2010, PR Log — The Joy of Jesus on-line church is a new concept that allows its readers worship on-line. People may ask, “how can you worhship on-line? This is an interesting question. The answers is rather challenging at best.
The Joy of Jesus is Pastored by The Rev. Dr. James A. Lee. ” Our goal at The Joy of Jesus is to provide scripture and prayer for the world.” We offer a sermon and ministry for jobs, education and now a war on poverty. We pray for people around the world.The Joy of Jesus http://thejoyofjesuschurchonline.blogspot.com/.
Saint Paul wrote letters to his followers that is nearly fifty percent of The New Testament. We do the same thing with the computer. The writings of Paul live with us today. We really want to help people in need with our partnership with the Red Cross.
Is it really necessary to air out what looks like a Marley family dispute by writing a “tell-all” book? I, personally, feel there has to be a better way to get the result you (as in Ky-Mani) desire. I wonder what song Bob Marley would write today after seeing all the turmoil in his family over money, his money. ~Affrodite
DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla., Feb. 4 /PRNewswire/ — Son of the Legendary Bob Marley, Ky-Mani pens his personal, controversial memoir, Dear Dad: “Where’s The Family In Our Family, Today?” The Story the Marley Family Apparently Doesn’t Want You to Know. Available now on Amazon and in book stores to coincide with Bob Marley’s 65th birthday February 6, 2010.
According to Fortune magazine, the Bob Marley estate generates as much as $600 million, and by 2012, it is expected to generate in excess of $1 Billion–making Bob Marley the richest deceased celebrity. With all the wealth, the acclaim and the legacy, why would the Marley family try to censor a true life story written by of one of Bob Marley’s sons–who many say is the son who best resembles his father’s extraordinary talent? In fact, the Marley family is so outraged over the publishing of this memoir they lodged a campaign of intimidation over Ky-Mani Marley as the author of this book, unless the thus far forsaken and ostracized son of Bob Marley rewrites the truth and omits the sometimes harsh realities of his being excluded from the Marley family’s affairs and events, and of intentionally being denied the love and attention enjoyed by the other children. They also demand that he confirm and showcase such distortions during his interviews and the highly awaited book tour.
Ky-Mani’s publisher, Dr. Farrah Gray, defends the memoir and the author’s right to disclose and describe the story of his life, even if it exposes situations and episodes the Marley estate prefers not to reveal. Gray’s position is based on his personal commitment to the truth and is also grounded in law. Legal authorities confirm the publisher’s right to pursue a claim of ‘tortious interference’ –a civil action that could possibly deem the Marley estate liable for damages caused by its threats to Marley’s son. Injunctive relief is also being considered.
“Family politics can be a straight bitch. It can flow deep. And it can cut deep. You have to understand what I’m calling family politics. It was family politics that gave me all of the growing-up experiences I have detailed in this book,” said Ky-Mani Marley.
The truth–and this book–will not be stopped. Published to coincide with Bob Marley’s birthday, Dear Dad: “Where’s The Family in Our Family, Today?” The Story the Marley Family Apparently Doesn’t Want You to Know (Farrah Gray Publishing; February 6, 2010; ISBN-13: 978-0-9727-0999-6; $14.95; Original Trade Paperback), by world-renowned and Grammy®-nominated recording and performing artist, Ky-Mani Marley–Bob Marley’s tenth child–is a compelling biographical account of a son who was locked out of his iconic father’s shelter after his death, and forced to survive poverty and run-ins with the street-predators of Miami’s violent ghetto. Ky-Mani grew up estranged from his siblings, and also cut out of any financial gain by Marley’s widow and manager of the Marley Estate. This compelling narrative chronicles young Ky-Mani’s gritty ascent from a bullet-riddled life to the world stages he now commands as a musical artist–a platform he has made on his own
Ky-Mani performs songs of redemption around the world like his famous father did, but has also lived to tell his personal redemptive story.
New York, NY, February 3, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Leading global African-themed style and cultural magazine ARISE selected top African designers Black Coffee (www.blackcoffee.co.za), Loin Cloth and Ashes (www.loinclothandashes.com) along with Deola Sagoe (www.deolasagoedesign.com) to showcase Fall/Winter 2010 designs during the publication’s AFRICAN COLLECTIVE PART III Mercedes Benz Fashion Week runway presentation.
On Saturday, February 13th at 8 p.m., show producer Jan Malan will transform Bryant Park’s largest venue, The Tent, into a living African landscape with elaborate staging inspired by award-winning poet Ben Okri. Models will walk through a virtual day and night on the great continent flush with excitement as South Africa gears up to host the FIFA World Cup and many states celebrate a half century of independence as well as economies poised for rapid growth.
The AFRICAN COLLECTIVE PART III, along with a series of international ARISE-branded events, will act as a unique and valuable platform for the great scope of talent ARISE Magazine documents monthly. Chairman and CEO Nduka Obaigbena of Leaders & Co., parent company to this London-based publication and Nigeria’s best-selling newspaper THISDAYwww.thisdayonline.com), believes the event will create and promote positive images to its readership residing throughout the world and even encourage investment in African nations. (
“Our tomorrow is bright,” said Obaigbena, “Showing for the third consecutive season at Bryant Park and in a larger venue is a testament to the continued success of our initiatives. I look forward to what is sure to be an amazing usage of African visual aesthetics recreated on the catwalk.”
Fresh from Berlin Fashion Week and receiving the Mercedes Benz South Africa Best Fashion Award 2009, Black Coffee designers Jacques van der Watt and Danica Lepen are new to a US audience. “It’s a great experience for us and a little bit of a treat in a business that is a great deal of hard work,” said van der Watt.
Lagos-based Deola Sagoe will be returning to New York Fashion Week after a decade. “To have come this far ordains a measure of success that I could not have imagined for myself. I am thrilled and honoured to be showing in New York.”
For the first time, an emerging designer, Loin Cloth and Ashes, from Tanzania, will also be part of the collective ensuring a triumvirate of African Design is represented. “My one dream was always to show my work in Africa,” said Anisa Mpungwe. “I would have never for one minute thought that I would ever show overseas, let alone in America, I am grateful to ARISE Magazine for this incredible opportunity.”
In addition to the New York show, ARISE Magazine will present during Paris Fashion Week on March 5, 2010, and host a Fashion Rocks! event in Johannesburg on July, 9, 2010. The highly-anticipated event will feature a fashion show and simultaneous performance by an uber, American songstress.
ARISE is a global style magazine that celebrates African achievement in the realms of fashion, music, culture and polity. It is published by THISDAY Media Group. The high-end monthly glossy is sold in London, New York, Washington DC, Milan, Paris and Nigeria. It is aimed at areadership within the global African diaspora that share an interest in the cultural successes and positive social developments coming out of the continent. Its mix of fashion, music, and polity is tailored to appeal to young, affluent readers and to a 60/40 female/male audience.
In 1998, while South Africa was searching for a new identity, Black Coffee was formed by Jacques van der Watt, a graduate of Leggatts Design Academy, Johannesburg. He was joined in 2004 by Danica Lepen, who completed her studies at Midrand Graduate Institute, Johannesburg. In the ten years since its inception, Black Coffee has shown at South African Fashion Week, Cape Town Fashion Week and San Francisco Fashion Week. The label has been nominated five times for the SA Fashion Awards and has won twice (in 2001 and 2007). Black Coffee is also the 2009 winner of the Mercedes Benz Award for Fashion. Black Coffee currently retails from the Black Coffee stores in Melville, Johannesburg, as well as selected stores in Pretoria and Cape Town. A new installation store opened in November 2009 at Arts on Main, Johannesburg.
Nigerian Deola Sagoe began designing in 1998 and has gained international notoriety for her lively and colorful designs. Her aesthetic holds a definitive African feel – making use of woven fabrics, and accessories like cowries, crystals, and beads, as well as the extensive use of gold. She was recently appointed to represent Nigeria in “Catwalk the World: Fashion for Food.” Sagoe frequently exhibits her couture collection at Cape Town Fashion Week and has been an invited guest of New York Fashion Week in the past. Sagoe has won the “Africa Designs” and the MNET/ Anglo Gold African designs 2000 awards for which she was nominated by Andre Leon Tally, US Vogue editor. She also has famous fans such as Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith.
Tanzanian- born Anisa Mpungwe launched her label Loin Cloth and Ashes in August 2008. Named after the Hebrew custom of Sackcloth and Ashes, that expresses humility before the higher spirit by wearing coarse cloth, normally used to make sacks, and dusting oneself with ashes. LCA is known for its hidden detailing, elegant edgy vibe, comfort and fit. Dresses make a statement but still maintain timeless air of luxury and style. Inspired by art, music, passion, shape and mood swings, Loin Cloth & Ashes loves a woman who is powerful and confident about herself and the beauty she proudly holds.
On January 28, 1985, a day after the American Music Awards, stars gathered in Jim Henson studios under the direction Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie to record “We Are The World.” The goal was to raise money and awareness about hunger in Africa. Proceeds were donated to the newly formed charity, at the time, USA for Africa (www.usaforafrica.org). To date, over $63 million dollars have been raised from this original recording co-written by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson.
Almost precisely 25 years later, dozens of entirely different stars gathered again in Jim Henson studios under the same direction of Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie to re-record “We Are The World.” Proceeds from the version of the recording will go into a yet to be named fund to raise money for victims of the earthquake that ravaged Haiti on January 12, 2010. The song underwent some lyrics tweaking from Will.I.Am who added a little rap to the song as well as Lionel Richie. Janet Jackson, who was not part of the 1985 recording, has been asked to sing her deceased brother Michael Jackson’s parts that he delivered in the original song although she was not present at yesterday’s (February 2, 2010) recording session. The song will debut at the 2010 Winter Olympics on February 12, 2010.
Lil Wayne apparently speculated as to why the earthquake in Haiti was the premise for the song’s revival as opposed to Hurricane Katrina that ravaged the Gulf region back in 2005.
Here’s a news report from Good Day LA…
Here is some footage of the recording day from the Associated Press…
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