Authorities raid Gladys Knight’s Chicken and Waffles restaurants
Sylvester Gladys Knight’s son, who runs the operation, is at the center of an investigation involving $1 million.
The restaurants are currently closed.
2016
Cavs Win 2016 NBA Championship
Congratulations Cleveland! #OhioBoys #YoungstownBoys
Happy Father’s Day Homies
I don’t care if you are the BEST father or just doing the BEST that you can I still salute you! Growing up with a part-time dad added to the pain of life for me and I just couldn’t abandon my children. Times were hard over the years but I wouldn’t trade being a Father for anything! Father me enjoy your day! God bless
Zonnique Pullins, Tiny’s Daughter, Busted for Carrying Loaded Weapon at Airport
Tameka Harris‘ daughter Zonnique Pullins, was arrested for carrying a concealed handgun though airport security last night. Pullins is rap mogul T.I.‘s stepdaughter.
According to CBS News Atlanta, Pullins, 20, was arrested at 10 p.m. Thursday. She was released at 2 a.m. Friday morning.
Sources say Pullins, affectionately known as “Niq Niq” to family, “forgot” the loaded weapon was in her luggage.
Pullins appeared on VH1’s reality TV show T.I. & Tiny’s Family Hustle. She is best known as the lead singer of the now defunct girl group OMG Girlz.
“I AM HOMICIDE” HOSTED BY DETECTIVE GARY McFADDEN
When the streets talk, he listens. Where a crime scene has already been picked over, he can see things everyone else missed. Meet homicide detective Garry McFadden, the focus of Investigation Discovery’s all-new original series I AM HOMICIDE. After nearly three decades with the Charlotte Police Department, Det. McFadden has solved more than 700 homicide cases, resulting in a 90-percent success rate with the investigations he pursues. But his work doesn’t stop at protecting and serving the community of Charlotte. Chances are that when a call comes in, he knows the victim, the family, or even the perpetrator, because he has made it his mission to be one with the people of Charlotte, operating his investigations out of a local diner instead of the police precinct so he can truly get to know residents across the city and gain their confidence. Det. McFadden uses his street smarts to work the neighborhood networks and gather critical information for leads, at times risking his life by trusting the streets he calls home. I AM HOMICIDE world premieres Tuesday, June 14 at 10/9c only on Investigation Discovery.
During each one-hour episode, Det. McFadden opens his case files to reveal how his unorthodox investigation methods helped solve one of the most precarious cases of his career. Using recreations, archival footage and revisiting the scenes of his most renowned cases, McFadden will take you behind the curtain on the cases that not only defined his career but the community he lives in. He will go anywhere, talk to anyone, and follow any lead with or without backup assistance – all the while wearing the best suits in town. And, after thirty-five years on the force, retirement be damned, he shows no signs of slowing down.
Fans can also take a deeper dive each week when Investigation Discovery’s top-rated podcast, DETECTIVE, returns for an all-new season featuring Det. McFadden. In each weekly installment of DETECTIVE, McFadden goes into detail about topics including his decorated career, cases that haunt him today, the legacy he wants to leave in Charlotte and his belief that community-based policing could diffuse contentious relations between law enforcement and the people they vow to protect.
UPDATE: 50 dead, 53 hospitalized in mass shooting at gay nightclub in Orlando
What we know
A gunman opened fire inside Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Fla., killing approximately 50 people and leaving 53 others hospitalized in the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history.
The gunman, who was carrying an assault-style rifle, handgun and possibly an explosive device, is dead after exchanging fire with officers at 5 a.m. He had taken hostages after trying to flee.
The FBI is treating the shooting as an act of terrorism.
The suspect was identified as Omar Mateen, a 29-year-old U.S. citizen whose family is believed to be from Afghanistan. Federal officials are investigating Mateen’s possible ties to radical terror organizations.
Witnesses at the club described a chaotic scene.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer declared a state of emergency as officials throughout the state asked the public for blood donations.
Rocko Sues Future for $10 Million
According to reports, Rock sued Future citing a 2011 contract he believes Future breached. He says the deal was for Future to make his first six albums with Rocko’s A1 record label. Epic Records signed on to distribute the albums and Future allegedly cut a side deal with the label, which scored him a multi-million dollar advance.
Rocko claims that Future stiffed him for 25%, the commission he’s owed off those Epic advances and he says he’s owed 20% of Future’s earnings from touring and endorsements. Grand total: About $10 million.
MUHAMMAD ALI TRIBUTE: THE GREATEST AIRS TOMORROW AT 10PM ET/9PM CT ON BOUNCE TV
Bounce TV will celebrate the incredible life of Muhammad Ali, the global icon who passed away Friday at the age of 74, with a special presentation of The Greatest, the 1977 motion picture in which Ali stars as himself, tomorrow, June 6 at 10:00 p.m. ET / 9:00 p.m. CT.
The Greatest is a dramatization of Ali’s life and starts with his rise to fame winning the heavyweight gold medal at the 1960 Olympic Games, when he was known as Cassius Clay. He then stuns Sonny Liston to become heavyweight champion of the world and soon after converts to Islam and changes his name.
When he is suddenly classified 1A by the Draft Board that earlier rejected him, Ali refuses the draft on religious grounds, which leads to the stripping of his title. Embarking on — and ultimately winning — a nearly four-year long court battle, Ali then returns to the ring and takes part in what many consider some of the greatest fights of all time. Against all odds, he defeats George Foreman in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” to win back the heavyweight title.
The Greatest was based on a book written by Ali and others and the boxing footage is largely from the actual fights. The film includes the song The Greatest Love of All, written for the movie and performed by George Benson. It was later remade by Whitney Houston.
Muhammad Ali Dead at 74
Mumammad Ali, an undeniable legend in the sport of boxing, has died at the age of 74.
Muhammad Ali on Life Support! Doctors Warned Family the “End is Near”
Muhammad Ali is flocking to his hospital bedside today as doctors fear that the end is near for the boxing legend.
According to a Mirror report, Ali is currently in intensive care after being admitted to the hospital in what was said to be “fair condition” yesterday. Bob Gunnell, an Ali family spokesman, said in a statement on Thursday that “A brief hospital stay is expected. At this time, the Muhammad Ali family respectfully requests privacy.”
BET AWARDS TO AIR LIVE ON SUNDAY, JUNE 26
The complete list of nominees for the 2016 “BET Awards” are:
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
ADELE
ANDRA DAY
BEYONCÉ
K. MICHELLE
RIHANNA
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
BRYSON TILLER
CHRIS BROWN
JEREMIH
THE WEEKND
TYRESE
Best Group
2 CHAINZ & LIL WAYNE
DRAKE & FUTURE
PUFF DADDY & THE FAMILY
RAE SREMMURD
THE INTERNET
Best Collaboration
BIG SEAN FT. CHRIS BROWN & TY DOLLA $IGN – PLAY NO GAMES
BIG SEAN FT. KANYE WEST & JOHN LEGEND – ONE MAN CAN CHANGE THE WORLD
FUTURE FT. DRAKE – WHERE YA AT
NICKI MINAJ FT. BEYONCÉ – FEELING MYSELF
RIHANNA FT. DRAKE – WORK
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
DRAKE
FETTY WAP
FUTURE
J. COLE
KANYE WEST
KENDRICK LAMAR
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
DEJ LOAF
LIL KIM
MISSY ELLIOTT
NICKI MINAJ
REMY MA
Video of the Year
BEYONCÉ – FORMATION
BRYSON TILLER – DON’T
DRAKE – HOTLINE BLING
KENDRICK LAMAR – ALRIGHT
RIHANNA FT. DRAKE – WORK
Video Director of the Year
BENNY BOOM
CHRIS BROWN
COLIN TILLEY & THE LITTLE HOMIES
DIRECTOR X
HYPE WILLIAMS
Best New Artist
ALESSIA CARA
ANDRA DAY
BRYSON TILLER
KEHLANI
TORY LANEZ
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
ANTHONY BROWN & GROUP THERAPY
ERICA CAMPBELL
KIRK FRANKLIN
LECRAE
TAMELA MANN
TASHA COBBS
Best Actress
GABRIELLE UNION
KERRY WASHINGTON
TARAJI P. HENSON
TRACEE ELLIS ROSS
VIOLA DAVIS
Best Actor
ANTHONY ANDERSON
COURTNEY B. VANCE
IDRIS ELBA
MICHAEL B. JORDAN
O’SHEA JACKSON JR.
YoungStars Award
AMANDLA STENBERG
QUVENZHANÉ WALLIS
SILENTÓ
WILLOW SMITH
YARA SHAHIDI
Best Movie
BEASTS OF NO NATION
CONCUSSION
CREED
DOPE
STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON
Sportswoman of the Year
CHEYENNE WOODS
GABRIELLE DOUGLAS
SERENA WILLIAMS
SKYLAR DIGGINS
VENUS WILLIAMS
Sportsman of the Year
CAM NEWTON
KOBE BRYANT
LEBRON JAMES
ODELL BECKHAM JR.
STEPHEN CURRY
Coca-Cola Viewers’ Choice Award
BEYONCÉ – FORMATION
BRYSON TILLER – DON’T
CHRIS BROWN – BACK TO SLEEP
DRAKE – HOTLINE BLING
FUTURE FT. DRAKE – WHERE YA AT
RIHANNA FT. DRAKE – WORK
Centric Award
ANDRA DAY – RISE UP
BEYONCÉ – FORMATION
K. MICHELLE – NOT A LITTLE BIT
RIHANNA – BBHMM
THE INTERNET – UNDER CONTROL
Best International Act Africa
AKA (SOUTH AFRICA)
BLACK COFFEE (SOUTH AFRICA)
CASSPER NYOVEST (SOUTH AFRICA)
DIAMOND PLATNUMZ (TANZANIA)
MZVEE (Ghana)
SERGE BEYNAUD (COTE D’IVOIRE)
WIZKID (NIGERIA)
YEMI ALADE (NIGERIA)
Best International Act UK
KANO
KREPT & KONAN
LIANNE LA HAVAS
SKEPTA
STORMZY
TINIE TEMPAH
The 2016 “BET Awards” will premiere around the world on BET’s international network. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 28th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 28th at 7:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 29th at 9:00pm CEST.
Cavs vs. Warriors in the NBA Finals! Who will Win??
I’m excited to see Cleveland back in the finals with a healthy squad this year so my question of the day is WHO will win it all? Who are you betting on??? Plus check out the schedule for the NBA Finals!
“Bring Out the Lady” Interview with Draya Michele and Rob Riley
Executive producer (Double R Media) Gina Caliste is betting on Atlanta living up to its hype on both the destination of choice for film and the best backdrop to capitalize on black girl magic. Caliste’s new television project, “Bring out the Lady” features socialite Draya Michele as the lead in a storyline that celebrates all things femme fatale in a city filled with scandal, opulence and temptation.
The project is set against the backdrop of Atlanta’s provocative nightlife giving some of the city’s hottest nightclubs co-starring roles throughout the production. “”Bring out the Lady” is the embodiment of everything that has made the Atlanta underground social scene legendary; strip clubs, flashy cars, beautiful women, and inevitably drugs and murder, but we’re telling the story from a female’s perspective,” Caliste explains.
In addition to Draya Michele and Rob Riley, Bring Out the Lady stars Charmin Lee, Erica Page and L. Warren Young.
The new Falcons stadium will host Super Bowl 53 in 2019
Atlanta’s new home to the Falcons, which is set to open in 2017, will host Super Bowl LIII, the 53rd Super Bowl.
City officials had remained hopeful that the $1.4 billion Mercedes-Benz Stadium would bring the event back to Georgia since Atlanta hasn’t hosted a Super Bowl since 2000. The new stadium was considered a clear favorite because of its retractable-roof.
Youngstown Pushing for Downtown ‘Lucas’ Museum
City officials are hoping the Force is with them as they make a long-shot effort to persuade legendary filmmaker George Lucas to build his “narrative art museum” downtown.
Lucas – who created the “Star Wars” and Indiana Jones movie franchises – has spent the last three years trying to build the museum in San Francisco and then Chicago, without success. The art collection owned by Lucas and his wife, Melody Hobson, is valued at $1 billion.
The Lucas Museum will celebrate the power of visual storytelling in a setting focused on narrative painting, illustration, photography, film, animation and digital art, according to its website.
Though Lucas is looking to bring the museum proposal back to San Francisco, Youngstown is offering space downtown for the project.
“We’re trying to get his attention,” said Councilman Julius Oliver, D-1st, whose ward includes downtown. “They’re looking for a place to go, and we feel we have the ideal spot.”
The proposed location would be near the Covelli Centre where a proposed riverfront park and amphitheater is to be built next year, Oliver said. The land for the museum would be donated, he said.
“It’s a long shot, but you shoot for the moon,” Oliver said. “If [Lucas] comes here to survey the area and considers Youngstown, that alone would bring a lot of attention to the city,” Oliver said.
Perhaps Lucas would agree to lend some of his art collection to the Butler Institute of American Art, Oliver said.
“That would boost visitors to Youngstown by the thousands,” he said.
Oliver said he was contacted by Eric Planey, a former Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber official who is now a banker in New York City, about asking Lucas to locate the museum to Youngstown.
Read more about the proposal in Friday’s Vindicator or on Vindy.com.
Other stories of interest
1st 2017 Acura NSX rolls off Ohio line in North American debut
Woman reports her brother was robbed at gunpoint at Liberty Township Walmart
South Schenley sinkhole has been filled
Three injured after rollover crash in Liberty Township
– See more at: http://www.vindy.com/news/2016/may/19/youngstown-urged-shoot-moon-star-wars-project/?newswatch#sthash.4Bj8v78Q.dpuf
VIP’s Attend Johnny Gill’s 50th Birthday Celebration
Over the weekend, the stars aligned to celebrate the 50th birthday of legendary singer Johnny Gill. The “50 Shades of Johnny” themed birthday celebration was held at a private Bel-Air mansion. VIP’s in attendance included: Smokey Robinson, NeNe Leakes, Cynthia Bailey, Nicole Murphy, Eric Benet, Bryshere Y. Gray, Cedric The Entertainer, Ron Devoe, Michael Bevins, Luke James, Shaun Robinson, Jill Marie Jones, Nichelle Turner, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jon Jon (Troop), Phillip Bailey (Earth, Wind & Fire), Jeffery Osborne, Kenny Lattimore, Rocsi Diaz, Joe, Debbie Allen, Sheryl Lee Ralph, A.D. Dolphin, Harmony Samuels, MAJOR. and more.
Tamar Braxton FIRED from ‘The Real’ [Details]
Tamar Braxton just got fired from ‘The Real.’ She wasn’t reading too well with the audience and sales people didn’t find her to be a good fit with advertisers. She was also too difficult dealing with production.
Soulja Boy’s $400 Million Deal Confirmed
Soulja Boy has a five-year, $400 million deal with World Poker Fund Holdings (WPFH).
Under the agreement, World Poker Fund will utilize Soulja Boy’s 15 million plus followers to promote the different assets the World Poker Fund controls online, including CelebrityWorld.com.
WPFH also has plans to use World Poker Fund to promote their forthcoming gaming platform, which will target over 3 billion plus global travelers who fly with any of the larger airlines.
Sherri Shepherd, Trina Braxton, Kenya Moore & More Attend WE tv Premiere of “Match Made In Heaven”
WE tv hosted a red carpet premiere for season 2 of their reality dating competition “Match Made in Heaven” at the renowned Woodruff Arts Center in the heart of Atlanta. MMIH executive producer and host Sherri Shepherd along with the show’s athlete bachelor Stevie Baggs, Jr. and his mom Lola Robinson were on hand to greet the guests. Trina Braxton also made a special appearance to give attendees a preview of the new season of “Braxton Family Values.”
VIPs in attendance included Kenya Moore and Matt Jordan (“Real Housewives of Atlanta”); Porsha Williams (“Real Housewives of Atlanta”); Mimi Faust (“Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta”); Kelly Price (R&B Singer); Egypt Sherrod (author/HGTV Host, “Flipping Virgins”); DJ Fadelf; singer Bobby V; actor/singer Mishon; “Cutting It: In the ATL” cast members Beautii J, Dedra Allen, Maja Sky and Lakenya Morris; Gocha Hawkins (“LA Hair”); love and relationships expert Spirit (“Rickey Smiley for Real”); “Selling It: In the ATL” cast members Chrishena Stanley and Sarah Lowe; Benzino (“The Next :15”); actor/rapper Lil Zane and more.
Guests mingled during the opening cocktail reception which was followed by sneak peeks of “Braxton Family Values” and “Cutting It: In the ATL” and then the premiere screening of “Match Made in Heaven.” Shepherd moderated a brief Q&A with Stevie and Lola, who dished on the upcoming season and encouraged guests to tune in.
#MatchMadeInHeaven premieres TONIGHT at 10/9c on WE TV(@WETv) following all new episodes of “Braxton Family Values (#BFV) at 9/8c.
RUSSELL SIMMONS AGREES TO PAY OVER $20 MILLION TO RUSHCARD CUSTOMERS
Russell Simmons is ready to right the wrongs of his prepaid debit card company, after a mishap left thousands of customers locked out of their accounts.
RushCard will pay a total of $20.5 million to more than 132,000 customers who said the company glitch left them without access to their funds in a financial bind. According to the Washington Post, $19 million will go toward reimbursing customers for fees and other costs they faced, while the remaining $1.5 million will go toward attorney fees.
Ciara has to Share her Baby
Sources connected to the former couple say Ciara showed up in court asking for sole custody of their 1-year-old son, baby Future. She claimed Future was a bad parent who was not present in the child’s life. We’re told she and her lawyer also trash talked Future to the judge, saying he was a bad person.
For his part, Future showed up and asked for joint custody, and the judge was squarely on his side, rejecting her arguments.
California courts favor joint custody, so the decision was in line with the law.
TMZ
STARZ Host Panel With Cast of Hit Series ‘Power’
The other night, STARZ hosted a panel discussion for its hit series “Power” at the Arclight Cinemas in Los Angeles. The panel featured cast members Omari Hardwick (James “Ghost” St. Patrick), Lela Loren (Angela Valdes), Naturi Naughton (Tasha St. Patrick), Joseph Sikora (Tommy Egan) and executive producer Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson (Kanan) alongside the show’s creator/EP Courtney A. Kemp. Attendees were treated to sneak peek clips from the series’ upcoming season three, which returns July 2016, followed by a moderated Q&A with the cast by New York Magazine/Vulture’s Stacey Wilson Hunt. Check out more pics Here….
QUEEN OF KATWE TRAILER
Queen of Katwe” is the colorful true story of a young girl selling corn on the streets of rural Uganda whose world rapidly changes when she is introduced to the game of chess, and, as a result of the support she receives from her family and community, is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion. Directed by Mira Nair (“Monsoon Wedding”) from a screenplay by William Wheeler (“The Hoax”) based on the book by Tim Crothers, “Queen of Katwe” is produced by Lydia Dean Pilcher (“The Darjeeling Limited”) and John Carls (“Where the Wild Things Are”) with Will Weiske and Troy Buder serving as executive producers. The film stars Golden Globe® nominee David Oyelowo (“Selma”), Oscar® winner and Tony Award® nominee Lupita Nyong’o (“12 Years a Slave”) and newcomer Madina Nalwanga.
For 10-year-old Phiona Mutesi (Nalwanga) and her family, life in the impoverished slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, is a constant struggle. Her mother, Harriet (Nyong’o), is fiercely determined to take care of her family and works tirelessly selling vegetables in the market to make sure her children are fed and have a roof over their heads. When Phiona meets Robert Katende (Oyelowo), a soccer player turned missionary who teaches local children chess, she is captivated. Chess requires a good deal of concentration, strategic thinking and risk taking, all skills which are applicable in everyday life, and Katende hopes to empower youth with the game. Phiona is impressed by the intelligence and wit the game requires and immediately shows potential. Recognizing Phiona’s natural aptitude for chess and the fighting spirit she’s inherited from her mother, Katende begins to mentor her, but Harriet is reluctant to provide any encouragement, not wanting to see her daughter disappointed. As Phiona begins to succeed in local chess competitions, Katende teaches her to read and write in order to pursue schooling. She quickly advances through the ranks in tournaments, but breaks away from her family to focus on her own life. Her mother eventually realizes that Phiona has a chance to excel and teams up with Katende to help her fulfill her extraordinary potential, escape a life of poverty and save her family. Disney’s “Queen of Katwe” will open in U.S. theaters on September 23, 2016.
‘SNOW ON THA BLUFF’ STAR INVOLVED IN SWAT STANDOFF
Curtis Snow, best known for the questionable documentary, Snow on tha Bluff, had another run-in with the law following his 94-year-old grandfather’s funeral service.
According to WSB-TV, an argument with another attendee at the funeral caused Snow to barricade himself inside the women’s bathroom of Higher Grown Empowerment Center. The incident took place from about 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. yesterday with officials on the scene.
The Source
Tiny Harris’ Mother’s Day Brunch
Tameka Tiny Harris held her annual Mother’s Day Ball in Atlanta at Scales 925. I’m so glad to see people celebrating mothers and all the hard work that they endure. Check some great photos from the Photoman!
Alvarez knocks out Amir Khan in sixth round
Canelo Alvarez knocked Amir Khan into next week with a devastating right hand in Round 6 to retain his WBC Middleweight Championship on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
TUPAC’S MOM AFENI SHAKUR DEAD AT 69
Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur, died late Monday night … possibly from a heart attack.
The Marin County Sheriff’s Department says it responded to Afeni’s Sausalito, CA home Monday around 9:43 PM for a report of a cardia arrest. She was transported to a hospital … where she was pronounced dead at 10:28 PM.
Afeni Shakur and Kingsmen
TUPAC’S MOMAFENI SHAKURDEAD AT 69
Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur, died late Monday night … possibly from a heart attack.
The Marin County Sheriff’s Department says it responded to Afeni’s Sausalito, CA home Monday around 9:43 PM for a report of a cardia arrest. She was transported to a hospital … where she was pronounced dead at 10:28 PM.
Source: TMZ
Afeni Shakur and Kingsmen
DRAKE’S ‘VIEWS’ ON TRACK TO MOVE OVER 1 MILLION UNITS FIRST WEEK
photo Credit: Kingsmen Media
Billboard is projecting that Drake’s album sales number could balloon to over 800,000 copies, which would smash his previous best–Nothing Was The Same sold 658,000 in its first week–by over 100,000. In addition to the traditional album sales mark, Drake’s streaming mark, which will certainly be significant considering the album was released first through Apple’s streaming service, then to iTunes several hours later, could push his equivalent album units figure to over 1 million, as reported by ChartNews.
Diddy Says He’s Retiring From Music
It’s the end of an era. Diddy shockingly made the announcement that he has decided to retire from making music. And after years of cranking out hit after hit, along with some signature dance moves, he says that he’s trading it all in to focus on a career in acting.
The Bad Boy Records mogul covered the June of issue of Cigar Aficionado Magazine to discuss his retirement and newest venture. “I’m going to put out my last album and devote 100 percent of my time to doing films … I want to stop at a great place.”
Source:Vibe
Parents facing fines for kids who bully
Parents in Shawano, Wisconsin, may soon face hefty fines if their children are bullies.
A new city ordinance effective since last week means parents and guardians could face hundreds of dollars in fines if their children continue to bully others.
The ordinance includes bullying and cyberbullying in school.
Niecy Nash, Kevin McCall, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Elise Neal & More Attend Harmony Samuels Music Showcase featuring MAJOR
Last night, mega-producer Harmony Samuels (Ariana Grande, Ne-Yo, Destiny’s Child, Brandy, Fantasia), BOE, SAMURAI and BMI hosted a pre-release music showcase celebrating the launch of their new artist MAJOR. at World Arts in Los Angeles. MAJOR. is the fresh new face and voice of soul-pop music, but he’s no stranger to the music industry having written for Ariana Grande, Nathan Sykes and EPIC Records’ “Think Like A Man Too” original motion picture soundtrack. 
Hosted by Niecy Nash (“The Soul Man”), the musical event was attended by singer Andra Day, singer Kevin McCall, actress Wendy Raquel Robinson (BET “The Game”), stylist GooGoo Atkins (WE tv “Mary Mary”), actress Elise Neal (“The Hughleys”), actress Kellee Stewart (“The Soul Man”), singer Dondria (“So So Def Records”), actor Chadwick Boseman (“42”) singer Adrian Anderson (“Trin-i-tee 5:7”), Shamicka Lawrence (VH1 “Hollywood Exes”) media mogul Mahir Fadle (“TheJasmineBrand.com”), writer Billy Johnson, singer Antonio Ramsey, singer Uri and more!
The Dream Project 2016 & Celebrity Business Icons Inspired 300+ Entrepreneurs to “Unleash The Creator Within”
The EGAMI Group presented its fourth annual Dream Project Symposium in Atlanta, Ga. on April 21 – 22, 2016 at The Atlanta Marriott Marquis. The two-day conference connected small business owners, current/aspiring entrepreneurs, creative and business professionals, with tangible methods to help them tap into their creative side and make their dreams a reality. More than 300 participants, industry influencers and celebrities from various industries including retail, technology, fashion, creative services and marketing attended.
Hosted by The EGAMI Group’s Founder and CEO, Teneshia Jackson Warner, the symposium provided invaluable business insights from keynote speakers Jennifer Fleiss, Miss Robbie and Mr. Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Following the keynote presentations, attendees participated in interactive and intimate workshops with experts who shared advice and strategies to help them take charge of their dreams.
Highlights from this year’s conference include the Welcoming Night of Dreams Networking Reception (Powered by Prudential Financial) featuring Guest DJ, Mc Lyte and a welcoming remarks from the City of Atlanta City Councilman Ceasar Mitchell. Prudential Financial keynotes Jennifer Fleiss and Miss Robbie gave guests the additional push and tools needed to help build and grow their businesses.
By mid afternoon the room was filled wall to wall to hear from the legend himself, Mr. Magic “Earvin” Johnson powered by Infinity sponsor Delta Air Lines. His in your face brother to sister approach, reminded Dream Project guests how important self-authenticity is to not only your brand but to your lifestyle. His thrilling and invigorating speech on how to Capitalize on Your Skills and Create Your Own Doors of Opportunity spark many guests to unleash the creators within them and to start living their dreams.
Prudential Financial, Delta Air Lines and The Coca-Cola Company were the event’s supporting sponsors and helped foster two days of empowerment and growth.
Birthday Bash ATL Announces “The Heavyweights Of Hip Hop” Performers
Hot 107.9’s Birthday Bash ATL presented by Heineken and sponsored by AT&T Mobilizing your world announced T.I., Jeezy, Kevin Gates, Rich Homie Quan, Migos and more to perform at this year’s show, Saturday June 18th at Philips Arena.
Many undisputed heavyweights of hip hop will come together over two days as three concert events celebrate the rich history of the South’s hip hop culture that has impacted the world. After celebrating 20 years of hip hop in 2015, Hot 107.9 continues to be the leader in hip hop, providing listeners with not only the hottest music, but one of the biggest hip hop concerts in the country.
Friday June 17th kicks the weekend off celebrating the early years of Hip Hop concert at the historic Tabernacle Downtown Atlanta for the “Birthday Bash ATL Classic Hip Hop Concert” featuring 8 Ball & MJG, Shawty Lo, Trina and more.
Saturday June 18th in Centennial Olympic Park is the Pre-Birthday Bash ATL Block Party with live performances by new and established artists. Artists in the past include Atlanta’s own Goodie Mob, Pastor Troy and many new artists. This FREE block party, hosted by Hot 107.9 air personalities will have vendors, interactive displays, vehicles, and contests.
Saturday June 18th is Birthday Bash ATL in Philips Arena which promises to be an epic experience with a phenomenal line up of performances. Historically, Birthday Bash has been known to close out the show with surprise guests and artists which has always been a hit with attendees. This year’s line up guarantees to be nothing less than a sell-out success! Birthday Bash ATL is presented by Heineken and sponsored by AT&T Mobilizing your world.
Prince Cremated
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Prince was cremated Saturday and a group of his “most beloved” family, friends and musicians celebrated him afterward in a small, private service, his publicist said.
Yvette Noel-Schure said in a statement that the 57-year-old music superstar’s family and friends gathered “in a private, beautiful ceremony” to say a loving goodbye.
Michael Johnson’s 7th Annual Football & Cheer Camp
Selma, Al was the place to be for Michael Johnson’s 7th Annual Football & Cheer Camp. Michael Johnson #90 DE of the Cincinnati Bengals spent the day training the youth in football drills with his NFL friends and have a huddle talk of encouragement to the youth. This is our fourth year going down to Selma and he has taught me a lot about giving back to your hometown. Check out photos/video from Kingsmen Media.
Prince Dead at 57
The artist known as Prince has died He was 57.
Prince’s body was discovered at his Paisley Park compound in Minnesota early Thursday morning.
TMZ
VIVICA A. FOX Announces Collaboration With POETIC JUSTICE JEANS
In an effort to provide contemporary fashion for curvy women everywhere, CEG client and actress VIVICA A. FOX has announced today that she will be collaborating with Poetic Justice Jeans (PJ) for their Fall 2016 collection!
The line was hand selected and curated by the celebrity fashionista and boasts a range of PJ’s signature jeans and French terry ath-leisure wear. The LA-based brand has been serving women with curves of all sizes nationwide since 2013.
Vivica chose to work with PJ Jeans as she greatly admired the brand’s efforts to make clothing accessible to women with curvy figures of all sizes. The Poetic Justice Jeans collection ranges from waist size 28 through plus-size 24 with price points starting at $24.00 up to $54.00. Check out the new collection Here
Miami Rappers Confirmed for Love And Hip Hop Miami
Trick Daddy and Trina are confirmed for Love and Hip Hop
Bossip Reports:
“I just met with Mona last week and we’re trying to do this thing right,” Trick Daddy said while speaking with Bossip. “One thing I won’t do is make a fool of myself. If we gone make a fool of somebody it won’t be me, so it’ll be interesting.”
TV One’s “DeadBeat Dad Rehab” interview with Cast Members
Thank you TV One for having us on the set of “Deadbeat Dad Rehab”. This movie will touch a lot of people that grew up in theses situations. I had a chance to listen to the cast members explain their characters but also tell a little about how they grew up with/without dads and how this movie touched them as they were shooting. Check back for more footage from Kingsmen Media and keep it locked for Deadbeat Dad Rehab coming soon on TV ONE.
Married
Hollywood actor Trai Byers and actress Grace Gealey have officially tied the knot after months of dating and starring in Fox’s hit “Empire” television series.
Kobe’s Special Retirement Ring
Kobe and his wife were presented with special retirement rings from Jeanie Buss before Kobe’s final game.
KEANU Screening in Atlanta w/ T.I., Method Man, Keri Hilson, Jordan Peele, Keegan Key, & Jason Mitchell
Warner Bros and New Line Cinema held their private screening of the new comedy KEANU at Regal Cinemas Atlantic Station. The event was hosted by the King T.I. and had appearances by cast members Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, Method Man and Jason Mitchell.
Check out photos of the celebrities that attended the Private Screening! Photo Credit: @KingsmenMedia
Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, a.k.a. the hugely popular comedy duo Key & Peele, star as Clarence and Rell, two cousins who live in the city but are far from streetwise. When Rell’s beloved kitten, Keanu, is catnapped, the hopelessly straight-laced pair must impersonate ruthless killers in order to infiltrate a street gang and retrieve the purloined feline. But the incredibly adorable kitten becomes so coveted that the fight over his custody creates a gang war, forcing our two unwitting heroes to take the law into their own hands.
Drake’s ‘Views From The 6’ Will Be An Apple Music Exclusive
Drake’s upcoming album, Views From The 6, will be available only on Apple Music for a limited time. According to Buzzfeed, the LP will be exclusive to the service for the first seven days after its April 29 release.
Kelly Price’s “Look 2 Live” Foundation Brunch Pics & Video
Kelly Price held her Birthday brunch and “Look 2 Life” foundation celebration at Scales 925 with a host of family and close friends. The Private Invite only event raised money for families of loved ones dealing with the diagnosis of cancer. I had a great time as always celebrating with Kelly and the foundation. Check out the video and photos from Kingsmen Media Group and please like, comment, and share!!!!!
Dej Loaf’s ‘Coming To America’ Themed Birthday Party
Last night Atlanta celebrities came out to party with rapper DeJ Loaf’s for her Private B’day Celebration. She looked AMAZING in her outfit too! It was filled with surprise performances and tons of special guests. The event took place at the plush Ventanas in Atlanta. The theme of the party was “Coming To America” and guests arrived in African garbs. MORE PHOTOS
THE GOCHA ILLUMINATION FOUNDATION TO EMPOWER YOUNG GIRLS DURING NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH AT ‘YOUTH LOCK-IN’ APRIL 29-30
April 7, 2016 – With April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Gocha Illumination Foundation (GIF) – a 501(c)(3) non-profit that serves the needs of teens who’ve suffered from physical, emotional and sexual abuse – will host its inaugural “Youth Lock-In” onFriday, April 29 through Saturday, April 30 at Center of Hope at Martin Luther King (101 Jackson St NE, Atlanta GA 30312) from 8:00PM to 7:00AM.
The Youth Lock-In is an overnight, educational and mentoring experience designed to empower girls ages 13-17 with the tools to develop leadership, self-esteem and problem-solving skills. Participants will enjoy an evening of workshops, vision board exercises, health and beauty tips, food, music and more.
Speakers include GIF founder Gocha Hawkins, Kandi Burruss, Judge Glenda Hatchett, Atlanta City Councilman Kwanza Hall, historian Anthony Knight, physician Dr. Jennifer Fowlkes-Callins and a special performance by R&B girl group Glamour.
“The Gocha Illumination Foundation is a direct reflection of my belief that children – especially young girls — need to be protected, nurtured and empowered,” says Hawkins. “The lock-in will provide a safe space for our girls to express themselves, learn, and be inspired. It’s my hope that they’ll walk away with a renewed confidence and strength to overcome their challenges.”
Sponsors of the 2016 Youth Lock-In include Target Stores, V103, City of Atlanta Department of Parks & Recreation and Gocha Salon.
Black Girls Rock 2016 Red Carpet Arrivals
RIHANNA, SHONDA RHIMES, GLADYS KNIGHT, DANAI GURIRA, AMANDLA STENBERG, AND BLACK LIVES MATTER FOUNDERS WERE HONORED AT THIS YEAR’S “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” AWARDS HELD AT The New Jersey Perfoming Arts Center. Check Out Red Carpet Photos from KINGSMEN MEDIA
Lil Wayne Suing Universal Music over Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Tyga…..
Dwayne Carter Jr. aka “Lil Wayne” is suing Universal Music Group for royalties that total in the tens of millions that he states should be coming to him instead of the label. Wayne’s agreement is that he takes responsibility and is compensated for nurturing and building the careers of Drake, Nicki Minaj and Tyga and other artists, but his suit claims Universal Music Group is collecting all the royalties and excluding his agreed percentage which is to be paid to him.
The label paid 100 million in advance to Cash Money Records, Inc. Wayne’s, Young Money, label is a joint subsidiary venture with Universal that was created as a way to help him develop, establish and nurture new artists that he discovers. The profit split according to the agreement is supposed to be a percentage split of 51/49 between Universal and Cash Money based on a 2003 agreement. Universal states the claim is without merit [The Hollywood Reporter]. “Universal should be grateful and respectful to lil wayne for the millions of dollars in distribution fees and profits they have earned on the artists he brought to the company, instead of seizing all of his profits on those artists in a desperate attempt to recoup the tens of millions of dollars they are owed by Cash Money Records,” said Carter’s attorney Howard E. King of King, Holmes, Paterno & Soriano in a Monday statement. Soundscan is also named as a defendant.
KERRY WASHINGTON, WENDELL PIERCE AND GREG KINNEARSTAR IN HBO FILMS’ CONFIRMATION
THE STORY OF THE EXPLOSIVE CLARENCE THOMASSUPREME COURT NOMINATION HEARINGS, DEBUTING APRIL 16;
WRITTEN BY SUSANNAH GRANT AND DIRECTED BY RICK FAMUYIWA;
JEFFREY WRIGHT, ERIC STONESTREET AND JENNIFER HUDSON ALSO STAR
HBO Films’ CONFIRMATION stars Kerry Washington (Emmy® and Golden Globe nominee for “Scandal”; “Django Unchained,” “Ray”), Wendell Pierce (HBO’s “Treme” and “The Wire”), Greg Kinnear (Oscar® and Golden Globe nominee for “As Good as It Gets”; “Little Miss Sunshine”), Jeffrey Wright (Emmy® and Golden Globe winner for HBO’s “Angels in America”; HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire”), Eric Stonestreet (Emmy® winner for “Modern Family”) and Jennifer Hudson (Oscar® winner for “Dreamgirls”). Written by Susannah Grant (Oscar® nominee for “Erin Brockovich”) and directed by Rick Famuyiwa (“Dope,” “The Wood”), the film details the explosive 1991 Clarence Thomas Supreme Court nomination hearings, which brought the country to a standstill and forever changed the way we think about sexual harassment, victims’ rights and modern-day race relations.
CONFIRMATION is executive produced by Michael London (“Trumbo,” Oscar® nominee for “Sideways”), Janice Williams (“Trumbo,” “The Astronaut Wives Club”), Kerry Washington, under the banner of her Simpson Street production company, and Susannah Grant. Darren Demetre (“The Bling Ring”) is the producer. The HBO Films presentation of a Groundswell and Simpson Street Production in association with ABC Signature Studios debuts SATURDAY, APRIL 16 at 8:00 p.m. (ET/PT), exclusively on HBO.