Assignment Now!

Hawks Are Maturing As A Team - Drew

2012-03-04T16:09:00.000-05:00

Words and Video by Stan Washington
Photos by Moses Robinson

The Atlanta Hawks set out on a 10-day road trip with a hard-fought victory over the hot Oklahoma City Thunder, 97-90 at Phillips Arena (March 3).

After starting strong in the first quarter, late in the fourth it could have become one of those games that could has slipped away from the Hawks as the Thunder led by NBA All-Star Game MVP Kevin Durant closed the gap in the last two minutes.

Atlanta Hawks Josh Smith "willed" his team to 97-90 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Hawks made two crucial turnovers in the last two minutes but their defensive efforts kept the Thunder from taking advantage of it.

"Our guys played with a level of confidence that I haven't seen in awhile, especially considering given what our situation was. We loss Tracy (McGrady) in the first half and that made our bench even shorter, but we were able to play through that and the guys on the bench stepped up and played extremely well," said Hawks Head Coach Larry Drew.

Like a number of tired and battered teams, McGrady who has a sprained ankle joins Jason Collins (sprained left elbow), Willie Green (lower back spasms) and Joe Johnson (tendinitis right knee) unavailable to play. Green and Johnson maybe ready to play Tuesday in Indiana against the Pacers as the Hawks begin a 10-day road trip.

Hawks co-captain Josh Smith had one of his best game of the season playing inspired ball on both ends of the coach. Smith pumped in 30 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. He had two slam dunks late in the fourth that helped stalled a Thunder run.

Drew said Smith's play and energy inspired his teammates.

"We definitely have to go to him. We need his energy and for him to be that impact player. Particularly, his energy. His teammates can feed off his energy," Drew said. "And when he plays like that, you can see the other players stepping up their game."

Smith said that was one win he was determined not to let slip away through their fingers.

Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith had 30 points.

After playing Indiana, the Hawks will travel to Miami, Detroit, Sacramento and then Denver.

#27 Zaza Pachulia challenges a shot by Nick Collison #4.

#0 Jeff Teague clamps down on #0 Russell Westbrook. Teague had 16 points to Westbrook's 25.

#6 Kirk Hinrich drives for one of his 10 points in the win over the Thunder.

Malcolm Robinson, the son of Assignment Now! Chief Photographer Moses Robinson got to see his father work during the Hawks-Thunder game. Malcolm also played ball boy during the Hawks's warm-up. Here he gets a low-five from Hawks Jerry Stackhouse and feeds the ball to Zaza Pachulia.

Chevy Cruze LT 2012 - One of the best compacts of 2012

2012-02-13T17:38:00.000-05:00

ROAD TEST - Infiniti M37 2012

2012-02-04T17:09:00.000-05:00

Words, Video and Photos By Stan Washington

See my video report on the new Infiniti M37 for 2012 or read the report below.

Redesigned in 2011, theInfiniti M class received only a few minor revisions for 2012. Thehandsome M-37 reminds me of the new breed of NFL defensive linemen who are 300 plus pounds but can still chase running backs down fieldto make a tackle.

The M37 weighs in between3900 and 4200-plus pounds. Press the accelerator from adead stop and you can feel this is a heavy vehicle. But it gets up tospeed in a few seconds. Forget about how fast it is in the zero to 60category. This is not that kind of ride. But the Infiniti will not beblown out of its lane when large trucks blow by you on theexpressway.

The M37 offers keylessentry and push button start inigition which is a big plus when yourhands are full. More than likely the average owner will use it moreas a vehicle to commute back and forth to work. So if you are goingto be stuck in traffic you will appreciate the firm comfortableseats, well-designed cabin, the Infiniti navigation system, and Bosestudio surround premieum audio system.

For those drivers who tend to daydream doing their long commute, you will be to know that the Infiniti employs safety measures like the blind spot warning system and the Lane Departure Warning system.

The M37 isn't yourtypical zip around town errand vehicle. The 3.7 liter 24 valveV6, 7-speed automatic transmission with 330 horses under the hoodbegs to run on the open highway where it can really show itsattributes.

The M37 and its420-horsepower, 5.6 V8 brother the M 56 are available inboth rear-wheel drive and Infiniti’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drivesystem.

EPA rated fuel economyputs the M37 at a disappointing 18 MPG for the city and 26 for theHighway. And this baby only drinks premium.

If fuel economy is a must for you but you want to staywith the Infiniti brand then you should check out the 360 horsepower,gas/electric Infiniti M35h hybrid.

Base retail price startsat $47,700. The model I tested which includedall of the full packages, will set you back $59,375.

And guess what? You willnot be disappointed.

Uncle Charlie Wilson Rocks Atlanta

2012-01-04T20:50:00.002-05:00

New Year's Weekend With Charlie Wilson and Kem

Assignment: Charlie Wilson Concert w/ Kem
Location: B. Jones Atlanta Civic Center, Atlanta, GA
All photos by Moses Robinson

There aren't too many musical acts from the 70s that are still selling out concert venues, like Charlie "My Name Is" Wilson. The former lead singer of the Gap Band, played to a sold-out audience at the Atlanta Civic Center, New Year's weekend. He sold out the first show. No word on the second show.

Assignment Now Chief Photographer Moses Robinson covered the concert and gave it an "A" grade. He also gave thumbs up to singer Kem who was the opening act. "Charlie Wilson knows how to put on a show," Moses said.

Wilson was recently honored with two 2012 Grammy nominations for his hit single, "You Are." He is nominated for a Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance. His critically-acclaimed CD, "Just Charlie" and the single dominated Billboard's Urban Adult Contemporary chart at number 1 for 13 consecutive weeks.

Wilson was also presented a proclamation on behalf of the Atlanta City Council by Councilman Michael Bond.

For the rest of Charlie Wilson's schedule go to: www.charliewilsonmusic.com

Atlanta City Councilman Michael Bond presents "Uncle Charlie" a proclamation.

Singer Kem added to the special night at the Atlanta Civic Center.

'Thank God, It's Not The Saints!'

2012-01-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

Atlanta Falcons to play NY Giants, Sunday, 1p.m.

That collective sign of relieve thatcould be heard across Georgia Sunday afternoon was from AtlantaFalcons fans when they learned, Matt Ryan and the boys would not haveto return the Superdome and face the red-hot Drew Brees and the NewOrleans Saints in the first round of the NFL play-offs.

The Falcons defense kept the pressure on Bucs QB Josh Freeman intercepting him 3 times and causing one fumble.

Yes, I said it. The Atlanta Falconsplayers won't say it publicly. Nor would Head Coach Mike Smith. Noteven owner Arthur Blank. And they shouldn't, but that's ok. I andevery other Atlanta sports writer and Falcon fan said it for them.

The Falcons will travel to New Jerseyto take on the New York Giants, 1 p.m. Sunday. As expected in hispost-game press conference, Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith said itdidn't matter to him who they played or when they played. He is justglad to be in the play-offs.

“All I know is that we are in thesecond season and there are 20 teams in the NFL that would tradeplaces with us,” Smith said.

After last week's embarrassing loss bythe Falcons to the Saints in New Orleans, it was important thatAtlanta went into the play-offs with some momentum. And boy, didthey. The Falcons had a record-setting first half scoring 42 pointsand holding the Bucs to 7 points.

The Falcons scored touchdowns on theirfirst three possessions. The team was firing on all cyclinders andthey were playing as if they are serious contenders for at least tobe in the NFC title game.

“We wanted to play our final regularseason game with a lot of energy and I thought we did that in allthree phases,” said Head Coach Mike Smith. “I'm very pleased theway our guys played, especially in that first half. I'm really proudof the way our guys bounced back.”

RB Mike Turner talks about re-establishing the running game.

The game plan was to set a fast tempo,Smith said and that's what the offensive unit did gaining a combine428 yards.

Re-establishing the running game wasparamount going into the play-offs and the Falcons offensive lineblew up some huge holes for running back Mike Turner who finished theday with 172 yards rushing on 17 carries for two touchdowns. One wasan 81 yard gallop.

Turner said that he and the offensivelinemen talked all week on how they wanted to increase the output ofthe running game. “We've been lagging a little bit and stillwinning some games, but that's not how we want to play, not how wewant to produce out on the field,” Turner said.

Falcons players Matt Ryan, Roddy Whiteand Turner also set some new franchise records during their victory.

Ryan became the all-time single seasonpassing leader surpassing Jeff George with 4,177 yards and a careerhigh 29 touchdowns.

White didn't score a TD in the game andonly had 69 yards in catches, but that was enough to push him pass WRTerance Mathis' franchise record of 7,349 receiving yards which wasset between 1994 and 2001. White now has 7,374 receiving yards.

RB Gerald Riggs' record of 48touchdowns stood for 23 years before Turner broke it on a one yardtouchdown run. Riggs set the record between 1982 and 1988. Turnertook four years to break it. Turner tied Riggs' record of 25 games of100-plus yards.

WR Julio Jones talks about one of his TD receptions and going on to the play-offs in his first year in the league.

Defense Gets Hawkish

Theoffense didn't have all the fun Sunday against Tampa. Playing one of most aggressive games, the defense intercepted three of Bucsquarterback Ross Freeman's passes. Cornerbacks Darrin Walls andDominique Franks each got a pick. LB Curtis Lofton returned his 26yards for a TD.

The Giants who many analysts considerare peaking at the right time dispatched a troubled Dallas Cowboysteam, 31-14 Sunday night, sweeping that series.

Even though the Falcons will have aslightly better chance against the Giants than the Saints, it stillwon't be a walk in the park for Atlanta. One reason is you just don'tknow what Falcons team will show up to play next Sunday.

Fans are hoping it will be the Falconsteam that vanquished the Bucs on Sunday and not the Falcons who gotcrushed by the Saints in the Superdome last Monday night. This teamhas been inconsistent all season long even when it has won.

The Giants bring a 9-7 record into theplay-off and their season has probably been even more frustrating toNew York fans than the Falcons up-and-down play to their fans. Intheir last two wins over the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Jets,the Giants now seem to have put it all together.

Their domination over the CowboysSunday night left no question of who was the better team.

The other “unlucky” wild-card teamthat will face the Saints are the Detroit Lions, who lossed in ashoot-out against the Green Bay Packers, 45-41. This is the Lions'first trip to the play-offs since 1999.

The Saints stayed hot by trashing theCarolina Panthers, 45-17. The Saints' last loss was Oct. 30 in St.Louis against the Rams.

NFL Play-Off Schedule

WILD-CARDROUND
Saturday,Jan 7

4:30 p.m. – No. 6 Cinncinati at No. 3 Houston (NBC)
8 p.m. – No. 6 Detroit at No. 3 New Orleans (NBC)

Sunday,Jan 8

1 p.m. – No. 5 Atlanta at No. 4 New York Giants (FOX)
4:30 p.m. – No. 5 Pittsburgh at No. 4 Denver (CBS)

DIVISIONALROUND
Saturday,Jan 14

4:30 p.m. – NO/NYG/ATL at San Francisco (FOX)
8 p.m. – DEN/PIT/CIN at New England (CBS)

Sunday,Jan 15

1 p.m. – HOU/DEN/PIT at Baltimore (CBS)
4:30 p.m. – NYG/ATL/DET at Green Bay (FOX)

Mayor's Masked Ball Raises $1.2 Million

2011-12-22T16:28:00.000-05:00

Photos by Moses Robinson
(c) 2011 Assignment Now!

Despite, a still strong Great Recession, the 28th Annual UNCF Mayor's Masked Ball in December set a record raising $1.2 million. The annual holiday event held at the Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta has become one of the premier social fundraiser events in Georgia.

A contingent of representatives from the business, education, political and entertainment communities joined host Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. Some of the celebrities from the entertainment industry present were actresses Terri J. Vaughn, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Ki Ki Shepard, Dawn Lewis; actors Michael Jai White, Obba Batunde, and Jonathan Slocumb. Also present were Henry Aaron and former U.N. Ambassador Andrew Young.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and his unnamed date.

The funds raised will benefit students attending the UNCF member schools in the Atlanta University Center. Across the U.S., 38 predominately African American colleges and universities are a member of the fund-raising organization.

Longtime Atlanta-based UNCF employee Billye Aaron receives a special award from UNCF President/CEO Michael Lomax.

UNCF executives and Mayor Reed accept a $50,000 check from Macy's.

Keith Sweat still knows how to sing to the ladies.

Keith Sweat brings the Mayor and his date on stage. Is the Mayor feeling a little uncomfortable here?

Actor Mykelti Williamson and his wife, Sondra Spriggs of Atlanta.

Michael Lomax, Michael Jai White and Jonathan Slocumb.

Actors Obba Babatunde and Michael Jai White are joined by their spouses.

Sheryl Lee Ralph and one of the nicest persons in the Atlanta news business, 11Alive's Karyn Greer.

Far left: Actress Dawn Lewis and the Williamsons.

Former UN Ambassador Andrew Young and UNCF's Maurice Jenkins.

Roger Bobb of Bobbcat Films, Demetria McKinney and Michael Jai White.

Michael Lomax and Atlanta Hawks center Za Za Pachulia.

Michael Lomax and U.S. Rep. John Lewis (5th-D)

Falcons Stave Off Vikings Rally

2011-11-28T18:53:00.001-05:00

Atlanta goes to 7-4

Words & video by Stan Washington, Sr Writer, The Atlanta Voice

Photos by Moses Robinson

There was a lot of talk in the lockerroom by players and by Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith aboutthe “ebb and flow” of a game, following their 24-14 victorySunday over the lowly, but tough Minnesota Vikings at the GeorgiaDome.

Sports fans and athletics surelyunderstand ebb-and-flow or momentum shift. A team or player candominate an opponent the first half of a game or match and then withjust one play by the momentum can shift and sometimes the other teamnever gets it back.

#83 WR Harry Douglass breaks free for the Falcons first TD.

“That was a hard-fought footballgame, and I thought we played through the ebbs and flows, especiallyin the second half of the game,” Smith said during his post-gamepress conference. “We did a good job keeping our composure as afootball team and I think we showed our resiliency.”

Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith. For more video interviews go to: www.youtube.com/samnews76.

Smith said there were some obviousmistakes they made and will work on them this week but he is glad tosee that they improved on their lack of production in third down andred zone efficiency from the last two games.

“We were three-for-three in the redzone. Red zone efficiency in the last two ball games, we weretwo-for-nine. It was something that we took a good hard look at inthe early part of the week,” Smith said. “I thought ourimprovement was evident there but there are some other issues to dealwith.”

Fortunately, for the Falcons they tookthe momentum away from the Vikings midway in the fourth quarter afterthey had scored two touchdowns to bringing them within three points.The Falcons answered with a 3 yard TD pass from Matt Ryan to tightendMichael Palmer.

But on the ensuing kickoff, the Vikingsquickly responded with a 107 yard return by Percy Harvin but he cameup three yards shy of a TD when he was chased down by Chris Owens.The Falcons defensive unit then made a four down goal line stancethat earned this defense a nickname. (But unfortunately we don't haveone, right now.)

The Falcons had 335 yards of totaloffense to 226 for the Vikings. Matt Ryan finished the day with 262yards passing and three touchdowns compared to Ponders 162 yards withone TD. He hit 80 percent of his passes and distributed the ball to seven different receivers.

WR #84 Roddy White pulls in a Matt Ryan pass. He had his second 100+ yard game.

WR Roddy White had another good gamepulling in 10 receptions for 120 yards and one score. The rushinggame was somewhat anemic with Michael Turner only getting 60 yards on19 rushes.

Last week against the Tennessee Titansit was defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux who made a tackle on afourth down play, this week it was linebacker Sean Weatherspoon whostopped RB Toby Gerhart from getting into the end zone.

“We were well prepared for thatparticular play,” he said. “It was a play we've seen repeatedlyon game tape and on the field. I remember the counter step whichindicates the ball is coming back to the strong side of the field.”

“We were just doing what we are paidto do,” said defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux. “The game isn'tover until the whistle blows and we are going to continue to fightwith pride and heart and finish games when we need to.”

Babineaux acknowledges that thedefensive unit is playing better now than they did earlier in theseason, but there are “still some things we need to work on.”

It was a beautiful catch by WR #11 Julio Jones, but it was nullified by Jones pushed off on the defender.

The offense may have sputtered in thethird quarter but they still managed to out duel the Vikings' unitled by rookie QB Christian Ponder who has firmly seized the startingposition from Donovan McNabb.

The win put the Falcons a half gamebehind the NFC South leaders New Orleans Saints who play the New YorkGiants on Monday night.

#54 Stephen Nicholas puts the wraps on the Vikings rookie quarterback Christian Ponder.

The Falcons reminding games are:

12/4 @ Houston 1 pm

12/11 @ Carolina 1 pm

12/15 Jacksonville 8:20 pm

12/26 @New Orleans 8:30 pm

1/1 Tampa Bay 1 pm

Atlanta Falcons host Minnesota Vikings

2011-11-27T11:09:00.001-05:00

Minnesota Vikings (2-8) @ Atlanta Falcons (6-4)

1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, Week 12 (FOX 5 TV, 94FM, 790 AM)

Live stats www.NFL.com

Reporting - Stan Washington,

Photography - Moses Robinson

The Atlanta Falcons will end a three game home stand against the struggling Minnesota Vikings who come to town without their star running back Adrian Peterson who didn't make the trip. Peterson has a high ankle sprain. These two teams have not played since 2008 when the Falcons won a play-off berth with a 24-17 victory.

RB #33 Michael Turner rushed for 100 yards against the Tennesse Titans last week. (Moses)

The Falcons are currently 1/2 game out in the wildcard race to make the play-offs as they sit in second place in the NFC South behind the 7-3 New Orleans Saints. The Saints will host the NY Giants Monday night.

The Vikings are already thinking about next season as they sit at the bottom of the NFC North which is looking like the toughest division this season. Green Bay (10-0) sits at the top followed by Detroit (7-3) and Chicago (7-3).

With Peterson, the Falcons run defense is looking for another day of feasting as they will look to limit back-up running backs #32 Toby Gerhart and #27 Lorenzo Booker. Vikings rookie QB Christian Ponder has taken over the starting spot for Donovan McNabb.

QB Matt Ryan passed for 316 yards and 1 TD against the Titans in their 23-17 win. (Moses)

As usual the Falcons offense under the helm of Matt Ryan are looking to get off to a fast start against a defense that is young and vulnerable. Last week the Falcons rolled up 432 yards of total offense as they shut down the Tennessee Titans, 23-17.

All-pro wide receiver Roddy White got back to his old form last week catching passes for 147 yards. Ryan passed for 316 yards and one TD. Rookie WR Julio Jones was out last week but is expected to play today giving the Vikings secondary an added headache.

The Vikings are coming off a 27-21 loss to the Oakland Raiders.

The one Georgia college connection on the Vikings is three year CB Asher Allen from the University of Georgia.

Next Game: Falcons @ Houston 1 p.m. 12/4

Vikings host Denver, 4:05 p.m.

In active Falcons players:

26-CB Kelvin Hayden

29-CB Darrin Walls

59-LB Spencer Adkins

66-C Brett Romberg

73-OL Kirk Chamblers

97 - DT Carlton Powell

98 - DE Cliff Matthews

Falcons bounce back with win over Titans, 23-17

2011-11-21T18:10:00.000-05:00

Atlanta are far from play-off ready, however

Hear more comments from Head Coach Mike Smith and other players by clicking on the video links or going to: www.youtube.com/samnews76.

Atlanta Falcon Head Coach Mike Smith said he is pleased with the team's 23-17 win over the Tennessee Titans, but he sees a lot of work that still needs to be done as the season approaches week 12. Two of those areas that need improvement are red zone efficiency and third down efficiency, Smith said.

The Falcons offense was dismal in those areas. Third down efficiency was 4-12 for 33 percent, while efficiency in the red zone was a disappointing 2 out of 6 for 33 percent.

“We've got to be more efficient in the red zone. You have to score touchdowns,” Smith said. “It's very important to score touchdowns and not kick field goals. You also can't turn the ball over in the red zone either.”

Despite the lackluster performance in those two areas, it was an important win for the Falcons who was coming off a loss to NFC South leader New Orleans Saints who were in a bye week. The team showed a lot of resilient to bounce back, Smith said.

“No matter what the outcome is, we have to move on to the next football game,” Smith said. “Our guys have done an outstanding job of that since we've been here. Since day one we have talked about what's the formula of a successful football team is and one of them is to put defeats behind you and move on to the next ball game.”

Smith said the players have bought into that philosophy and future Hall of Famer tightend Tony Gonzalez ( 74 yds, 1 TD). Gonzalez agrees with Smith that the win was important but now is the time for the Falcons to start playing at a higher level.

“At this point of the year, this is when you want to start hitting your stride as a team,” he said. “You need to because (if you don't) if you are lucky enough to make the play-offs you will be bounce quick. We've got to start getting hot. I think we are almost there but we're not there yet.”

Gonzalez went over 13,000 yards in catches during the game.

(See Tony Gonzalez's comments at: www.youtube.com/samnews76)

On the other side of the field from Gonzalez, wide receiver Roddy White got back on track even though he didn't score a touchdown. With rookie sensation Julio Jones out, White had seven catches for 147 yards with his longest catch being a fantastic 43 yarder between two defenders.

Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan had one of his best games of the season completing 22 out of 32 for 316 yards and one TD.

Another bright spot for the Falcons was the run defense. They held the sensational Titans running back Chris Johnson to 13 yards on 12 carries. The team had a total of 41 yards rushing. Falcons defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux sarcastically said they work hard on the run each week but they appreciate it when members of the media finally recognizes it.

“We prepared good all week. We knew that they were going to try and run, so we took them out of their run game that they normally do,” Babineaux said. “We got after them up front and stopped the run all day long.”

(See Jonathan Babineaux's comments at: www.youtube.com/samnews76)

Tennessee which falls to 5-5 did have some bright spots in their loss. After starting quarterback Matt Hassellbeck (13-25, 124yds, I int) went out with a sprang elbow, back-up Jake Locker (9-19, 140 yds, 2 TDs) came in and nearly led the Titans to a comeback win.

Locker's two TD passes went to Nate Washington who pulled in 9 passes for 115 yards.

“He (Locker) came in and made some nice throws under pressure and bought us some time, Titans Head Coach Mike Munchak said. “He did exactly what we thought he was capable of doing. He did exactly what a second team quarterback should do. It was his opportunity. He brought us back in the game.”

His team played hard for 60 minutes, but they didn't “play smart for 60 minutes”, Munchak said. They make too many mistakes and penalties, he added.

Next week, the Falcons will host (1 p.m. Sunday) Minnesota Vikings who are coming off of back to back losses to Green Bay and Oakland.

Atlanta Hawks Statement on Failure of Talks

2011-11-16T11:40:00.001-05:00

The Atlanta Hawks organization today released a statement on the latest development in the stalled talks between the NBA players and the owners. The NBA players have taken the steps to dissolve the union and to file an anti-trust lawsuit against the owners. In private conversation with some Atlanta Hawks staff, they are even more frustrated than the fans. If the season is cancelled there will surely be layoffs in the front offices of NBA teams and they won't have the option of going to work overseas like the players.

The official statement is below:

As you are probably aware, yesterday afternoon, the players union rejected the NBA’s latest proposal and effectively suspended the collective bargaining process. As a result, the league has been forced to cancel all games previously scheduled to take place through and on December 15.

We share your frustration that an agreement has not yet been reached and we recognize that without you, our fans, there would be no Hawks and no NBA.

We will keep you updated as any additional information becomes available.

We thank you again for your patience, understanding and continued support throughout the bargaining process.

Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons

2011-10-16T13:27:00.000-04:00

Rookie sensation Carolina quarterback Cam Newton makes his pro debut at home

Carolina Panthers (1-4) @ Atlanta Falcons (2-3)
Oct. 16, 2011
1 p.m. Georgia Dome
FOX 5 TV

If Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Cam Newton is nervous about playing before his hometown crowd for the first time at the Georgia Dome, he isn't showing it. Newton is one of the most relaxed quarterbacks before the game, I've seen. While both teams were going through their pre-game drills, Newton was bopping his head and doing a few steps to the music being played over the stadium's loud speaker. But that is something he does before every game. He's cool, calm and collective to use an old phrase.

The Game

In one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL, there is no room for error in the NFC South. Every week is a must game for Atlanta, Carolina, Tampa Bay and New Orleans. Each team is lead by a top quality quarterback in Matt Ryans of the Falcons, Cam Newton with Carolina, Drew Brees with New Orleans and Josh Freeman with Tampa Bay.

The Falcons swept Carolina last season in their series. They lead the series with a 20-12 record. . The Falcons are 21-5 at the Georgia Dome, including 7-2 at home against the NFC South. Both teams are coming off loses, Atlanta 25-14 to Green Bay and Carolina 30-27 against New Orleans.

This week the Falcons will have the services once again of all-pro defensive end John Abraham, but will be without the services of rookie WR Julio Jones, CB Chris Owens, CB Darrin Walls, S James Sanders, C Brett Romberg, DT Carlton Powell and DE Cliff Matthews.

The Panthers lose the services of starters 79 tackle Jeff Otah and kick returner Mike Goodson.

In other NFC South action..

New Orleans is at Tampa Bay for a 4:15 game.

The pick game of the week is San Francisco 49ers at the Detroit Lions. Kick-off 1 p.m.

Next week:

The Falcons travel to Detroit; New Orleans hosts Indianapolis; Carolina hosts Washington; and Tampa Bay hosts Chicago.

Cam Newton confers during a timeout during the first quarter. The Panthers have the ball on the Falcons 19 yard line. The Falcons defense holds and the Panthers make a 42 yard field goal attempt. Panthers 3-0.

www.nfl.com

Falcons Win Home Opener, 35-31

2011-09-19T19:11:00.000-04:00

Michael Turner #33 of the Atlanta Falcons carries the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles at the Georgia Dome. Turner finished the game with 21 carries for 114 yards and 1 TD.

Matt Ryan #2 set a professional career record in tossing four TDs. He completed 17 out of 28 for 195 yards and 1 interception.

Although, he didn't finish the game, Vick was 19 out of 28 for 242 yards and two touchdowns. He also had two fumbles.

Jason Avant #81 of the Philadelphia Eagles makes a catch for a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons.

The player of the game was Falcons tightend Tony Gonzalez #88 who made two spectacular catches for two touchdowns. Gonzalez finished the night with 7 receptions for 83 yards.

Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie #23 of the Philadelphia Eagles breaks up a pass intended for Julio Jones #11 of the Atlanta Falcons.

Pre-game: Falcons vs. Eagles

2011-09-18T20:06:00.000-04:00

Pregame Notes: Atlanta Falcons vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Next Game:

Atlanta at Tampa Bay - Tampa Bay defeated Minnesota 24-20.

New York Giants at Philadelphia - New York plays St. Louis Monday, 8:30 p.m. ESPN

What To Watch For

Just as the Atlanta Falcons sought to strengthen its defensive unit during the off-season, so did the Philadelphia Eagles who now have five Pro Bowlers on defensive and rookie as middle linebacker that has a strong NFL pedigree.

The Eagles have signed all-pro corner Nnadmdi Asomugha ( Aw-sum-wah) #24 to a five-year $60 million contract. His last stop was with the Oakland Raiders.

Being tested under fire in the middle is rookie #50 Casey Mathews. Casey's father is Clay Jr., who played 19 years as a linebacker in the NFL. His uncle Bruce was a Hall of Fame offensive lineman for the Tennessee Titans. His brother Clay III is an all-pro linebacker for the Green Bay Packers. Rounding out that young linebacker corp are two year starter Jamar Cheney and three year Moise Fokou.

The Falcons are 0-4 in their last four games against the Eagles.

Although, he won't be playing tonight, Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux one of the most charitable-minded players in the NFL will host five Georgia firefighters who traveled to New York to volunteer following the collapse of the World Trade Center.

Jonathan Babineaux is on the inactive list for the Eagles game.

The firefighters who are from different Georgia city departments are Sterling Poole, Robert McCain, Greg Kerr, Terrence Sherod and Kevin E. Smith.

The following players are inactive for tonight's game

Atlanta Falcons

29 – CB Darrin Walls

35 – RB Atone Smith

59 – LB Spencer Adkins

62 – C. Todd McClure

79 – G Mike Johnson

95 – DT Jonathan Babineaux

98 – DE Cliff Matthews

Lineup Changes

61 Joe Hawley will start at center for Todd McClure

94 Peria Jerry will start at defensive tackle for Jonathan Babineaux

Philadelphia Eagles

9 – QB Vince Young

26 – S Jaiquawn Jarrett

31 – CB Curtis Marsh

55 – DE Darryl Tapp

56 – LB Akeem Jordan

73 – G Julian Vandervelde

74 – T Winston Justice

NFL Sunday - Atlanta vs. Philadelphia

2011-09-18T13:27:00.001-04:00

Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) at Atlanta Falcons (0-1)

8:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011

Place: Georgia Dome

Twitter: @StanWashington

Although much of the media attention has been on Michael Vick returning to play against his old team the Atlanta Falcons in an NFL Sunday night prime time (NBC) match-up, the bigger story is whether or not the Falcons have finally gotten their act together after having lost all of their pre-season games and their opener against the Chicago Bears.

Michael Vick still has a strong fan base in Atlanta.

The Falcons who have been picked by some sports analysts as a favorite to repeat as NFL South champs and to go deep into the play-offs looked rather inept against the Bears. The Bears came out and played like a team ready to fight hard to win the NFC North. The Falcons played like the NFC South title was already in the bag and all they have to do is show up.

But that part of the story is not what is driving the talk on local sports radio nor will it be the focus of discussion by the TV analysts on Sunday. The focus will be on Vick, who was supposed to lead the Falcons to the Super Bowl and its current golden boy Matt Ryan who is supposed to lead the Falcons to the Super Bowl.

Not known for his mobility, Matt Ryan will feel the heat from the Eagles' defense.

Vick, last years's NFL Comeback Player of the Year and has found redemption as the starter of Eagles. The once $130 million man for the Falcons is now the $100 million man with the Eagles. He's has literally gone from riches to rags to riches again. After serving 19 months in prison on violating federal dog fighting charges, Vick is a new man with a new outlook about his talent and his approach to the game which has always come so easily to the talented individual.

Vick still has a strong fan base in Atlanta and there will be a number of Vick fans who will be pulling for him - and the Falcons. Those fans will compare him against Ryan who has lost some of his sheen now that he 0-2 in the play-offs and the Falcons have stumbled coming out of the gate. There are those who vehemently feel that the Falcons should have kept Vick.

But after Vick betrayed the trust of owner Arthur Blank and the fans it was time for Vick to move on. The team had gone out on the line for Vick on too many occasions. There are no harsh feelings by Blank or by Vick's former teammates. Blank told USA Today that he would look for Vick before the game. He said he was happy that Vick had changed and had gotten a second chance.

The Falcons have more issues to deal with than how to contain the new and improved elusive Vick. The defensive unit played out of position of most of the game and when they were in the right spot, they failed to tackle like professionals. The jury is still out on whether the Falcons have improved their secondary which has been their Achilles' heel for several seasons.

The offense has two deep threats in all-pro Roddy White and rookie Julio Jones but they have yet to become effective since Ryan hasn't been able to get them the ball down field. The running game appears to be on track if the offensive line can continue to spring loose RB Michael Turner. Turner needs to have over 100 yards a game in order for the Falcons to have a good shot of winning.

So the real story – at least for Atlanta fans will be how much the Falcons have improved since last week. If they are 0-2 on Monday, it's going to be a very steep climb to getting back to the summit of the NFC South. Rivals New Orleans Saints are tough and have their eyes set on returning to the Super Bowl despite their opening game loss to the Green Bay Packers. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are young and tough and the Carolina Panthers have Atlanta's own Cam Newton and expect them to upset some teams later in the season.

In their last four meetings, the Falcons are zero in the win department against the Eagles. Unless, they have rededicated themselves to playing top tier football, the birds' championship season will be over early and they will go into their next game against Tampa Bay psychologically wounded.

One thing is for sure, just showing up has never won any team a title in the NFL.

In Other NFL action...

The earlier marquee match will feature the San Diego Chargers, 1-0 at the New England Patriots, 1-0; (4:15 p.m., CBS) Patriots' quarterback Tom Brady is coming off of a sick 517 yard performance against the Miami Dolphins. Can the Chargers bring enough pressure to slow down Brady? Brady is a classic drop back quarterback, and not mobile like an Aaron Rogers of Green Bay. The pressure is on the defensive line. Expect to see more disguised blitzes from the linebackers and corners.

Green Bay Packers (1-0) at Carolina Panthers (0-1) (1 p.m., Fox) (This will be a BIG test for Cam Newton.)

Chicago Bears (1-0) at New Orleans (0-1) (1 p.m. Fox) (Atlanta fans will be rooting for Chicago..)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) at Minnesota Vikings (0-1), (1 p.m. Fox)

Arizona Cardinals (1-0) at Washington Redskins (1-0), (1 p.m. Fox)

Seattle Seahawks (0-1) at Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1), ( 1 p.m., Fox) (Steelers looking to rebound.)

Oakland Raiders (1-0) at Buffalo Bills (1-0) (1 p.m. CBS) (Is Oakland ready to go back to the play-offs?)

Jacksonville Jaguars (1-0) at New York Jets (1-0) ( 1 p.m. CBS) (The battle of the undefeateds.)

Baltimore Ravens (1-0) at Tennessee Titans (0-1) (1 p.m., CBS) (Refs will be watching for chop blocks and cuts.)

Kansas City Chiefs (0-1) at Detroit Lions (1-0) (1 p.m., CBS) (Detroit is looking to upset teams this season.)

Cleveland Browns (0-1) at Indianapolis (0-1) (1 p.m., CBS) (Peyton Manning is gone, but he didn't play defense.)

Dallas Cowboys (0-1) at San Francisco 49ers (1-0) (4:05 p.m., Fox) (Can Cowboys' Tony Romo rebound?)

Cincinnati Bengals (1-0) at Denver Broncos (0-1) (4:15 p.m., CBS)

Houston Texans (1-0) at Miami Dolphins (0-1) (4:15 p.m., CBS) (The Texans are hungry.)

St. Louis Rams (0-1) at New York Giants (0-1) (Monday, 8:30 p.m. ESPN) (What's wrong with the Giants?)

Get live scoring and stats at: www.NFL.com

Family Celebrates Otis Redding's 70th Birthday

2011-09-16T18:37:00.000-04:00

The Otis Reading Youth Educational Dream Foundation recently held its annual gala honoring the birthday of the late soul singer in his hometown of Macon, Ga. Assignment Now Chief Photographer Moses Robinson covered the event.

Zelma A. Redding

Otis Redding III

Master violinist Ken Ford and his boss - Mrs. Ford.

Timothy Bloom

V. Bozeman

Jimmy Hall performs.

The dynamic Ken Ford performs.

Brenda Vaughn

Dexter Redding.

Otis Redding III performs at Celebrating 70 Years of Otis Redding.

Otis Redding III and Ken Ford perform.

Dexter Redding performs at Celebrating 70 Years of Otis Redding on September 10, 2011 in Macon,

(L-R) Dexter Redding, Otis Redding III and Steve Cropper

L-R) Zelma A. Redding, Timothy Bloom and V. Bozeman

Atlanta Has The "Blues"

2011-09-13T14:08:00.001-04:00

Words and photos by Stan Washington

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Atlanta is in a “blue” mood.

During the month of September that there are a several buildings around metro Atlanta illuminated by blue lights. The latest to go blue is Peachtree Pointe Plaza office complex at 1545 Peachtree St., in Atlanta.

The blue lights are a reminder that the month of September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. As the color pink signifies Breast Cancer Awareness, the color blue is for men to get test for prostate cancer.

The Invesco Tower at Peachtree Pointe Plaza goes blue as part of the "Who do You Wear Blue For?" prostate cancer awareness campaign.

The blue lights and the wearing of blue clothing are apart of the “Who Do You Wear Blue For?” awareness campaign sponsored by Vantage Oncology/Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia. The campaign will benefit the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Georgia Prostate Cancer Coalition.

Shelly Glenn of Vantage Oncology addresses the gathering at Peachtree Pointe Plaza in Atlanta.

Participating partners in the campaign include Mayor Kasim Reed and the City of Atlanta, Dewberry Capital, Cousins Properties, the Fulton County Government Center, Centennial Tower and the Concourse "King" building at Concourse Corporate Center and Eastside Medical Center in Snellville.

According to the American Cancer Society, in 2010, more than 5,000 new cases of of prostate cancer were reported in Georgia. Nationally, more than 190,000 cases were reported. Georgia ranks 11^th in highest estimated deaths caused by prostate cancer.

Tracye Bryant of the American Red Cross signs the pledge banner to inform the men in her life to get tested for prostate cancer.

Approximately 1 in 6 men in the U.S. Will be diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, but for African American men the numbers are about 1 in 4.

The good news however is when detected early survival rates are high.

For screening, the ACS recommends the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test with the DRE (digital rectal exam) detects cancer at an earlier stage than if no screening is performed.

Here are some risks the ACS want you to know:

*Age is the most important risk factor for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer incidence rates increase in men until roughly age 70 and decline thereafter. More than 65 percent of all prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over the age of 65, and the average age of diagnosis in the U.S is 69 years.

*Race/Ethnicity also play a factor as African American men have a higher incidence of prostate cancer and are more likely to die from the diseases than white men in every age group. While incidence and death rates for prostate cancer are lower among men of other racial and ethnic groups than among white and African American men.

*Family history and genetics will increase risk of developing prostate cancer as men with a first-degree relative (i.e. a brother or father) with the disease are two to three times more likely to develop the disease.

*Men should be screened for prostate cancer by age 50 but as early as age 40 for African American men and men with a family history.

To learn more about prostate cancer and the awareness campaign visit: www.whodoyouwearbluefor.com.

Tracye Bryant and Julie Riley, Metro Area Donor Center Rep. American Red Cross Southern Blood Services Region come to support the "Who Do You Wear Blue For?" event.

Atlanta Falcons vs. Baltimore Ravens

2011-09-01T20:04:00.000-04:00

The Atlanta Falcons would like end their preseason on a high note with a win over the Baltimore Ravens tonight at the Georgia Dome. (7:30 pm, CBS Atlanta Ch. 46; Star 94.1FM).

The Falcons starting defensive unit stops the Ravens near mid-field.

Although, the Falcons come into this contest with an 0-3 record, the first team units have looked rather sharp during the preseason. So sharp, that Sports Illustrated's Senior NFL writer Paul Z, picks them to win the Super Bowl this year. How anyone can pick a team to win it all this early in the season is beyond me, but if Mr. Z is right he is either a genius or real lucky. No word yet from the Vegas bookies on who are the odds favorite.

Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith said at their last practice that this would be the last opportunity for some guys to show that they belong on this team. Both teams sat their offensive starters. Chris Redman started for the Falcons and he was sacked on the first series resulting in a turnover.

The Ravens started Tyrod Taylor a rookie from Virginia Tech who reminds your of Michael Vick. An interception by Falcons corner Brent Grimes stopped their drive.

But here are some players to keep your eye out for that have Georgia connections:

Falcons:
#43 Akeem Dent, LB, 6-1, 239 rookie from University of Georgia. He was a standout when he played at Douglass High School
#42 Lucas Cox, FB 6-0 245, rookie from Georgia Tech
#76 Kiante Tripp, DL 6-6, 276, rookie from Georgia
#12 Kevin Cone, WR 6-2, 216, rookie from Georgia Tech

One rookie that need not be concerned about being cut is No. 1 draft choice #11 Julio Jones, WR. He has found a starting spot opposite All-Pro Roddy White.

Keep your eye on rookie running back Jacquizz Rodgers from Oregon State who put a juke move on a Raven defender and faked him out of his jockstrap.

Baltimore

On offense look for 2 year OT Ramon Harewood, 6-6, 340lbs, who is ranked 2nd on the depth charts. Other Georgia connections are:

#59 Dannell Ellerbe Ilb, 6-1, 240, 3rd year out of Georgia
#35 Anthony Allen RB, 6-1, 230, rookie from Georgia Tech

Film 'Trinity Goodheart' penned by Atlanta Writer

2011-08-26T17:48:00.001-04:00

Words and photos by Stan Washington

Atlanta-based writer Rhonda Baraka's new film "Trinity Goodheart" starring Eric Benet airs this month on GMC TV.

The world premiere of the film "Trinity Goodheart" premieres on the GMC TV cable channel Friday night at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.

The film stars singer-songwriter Eric Benet in his first dramatic lead role. The film is written by Atlanta-based Rhonda Baraka (Pastor Brown) who has a long journalistic and publishing career in Atlanta.

Eric Benet answers a question following the screening of the film at the NABJ conference in Philadelphia.

"Trinity Goodheart" is the heartwarming story of a smart, independent young girl played by the adorable Erica Gluck ("The Game") being raised by her single, free-spirited musician father (Benet). Her mother has passed on and her father and her maternal grandparents do not get along. Trinity goes in search of her mother's past in an effort to bring her estranged family together.

Erica Gluck plays Trinity Goodheart.

I caught up with Baraka recently at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention in Philadelphia where the film was screened. Although, both Baraka and GMC are based in Atlanta, the film was shot almost entirely in Charlotte, North Carolina.

After seeing the finished product, Baraka said, "I couldn't be more thrilled with how the film has turned out. Everyone in front of the and behind the camera did an incredible job of bringing the story and characters to life."

Rhonda Baraka and her husband used to publish a lifestyle/music magazine in Atlanta.

Timing is everything in this business as Baraka can testify to. In a conversation in 2010 at the American Black Film Festival, GMC executives shared with her the network's planned strategy of producing original movies.

"We told her we were looking for faith-friendly, family-friendly scripts that went beyond the traditional 'church' or 'pastor' stories and would appeal to a broad audience," recalled GMC Vice-Chairman Brad Siegel.

Eric Benet listens to a question from CNN's T.J. Holmes.

Baraka sent Siegel almost a dozen two-page treatments, one of which, "Trinity Goodheart" struck a chord with Siegel and his staff.

"This script seemed to write itself and was just waiting for the right time and the right home. I found that home with GMC," Baraka said.

Members of the NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force join the Trinity Goodheart crew for a photo.

For further air dates and times and for more on GMC programming go to: www.watchgmctv.com

Bronner Brothers International Hairshow

2011-08-25T17:08:00.000-04:00

The annual Bronner Brothers International Hairshow occurred recently at the Georgia World Congress Center. Hairstylists from around the world attend the show to learn new techniques, sample new products, catch up with old friends and to compete in the hairstyle competition. It's not a competition for the shy hairstylist. You will need to have a vivid imagination to play in this sandbox. One thing is for sure, black women sure got a thang about their hair! Chief Photographer Moses Robinson covered some of the action on last Saturday.

Yes, people that is a chair sitting atop of her head.

And that is a...a...I don't know what that is, but I bet you she doesn't sleep in it.

And here's your winner! Note: No illegal drugs were used by the hairstylists in this competition.

The Green Room Opens in Buckhead

2011-08-21T01:30:00.021-04:00

Assignment: The opening of The Green Room in Buckhead
Where: 25-D Bennett Street, Atlanta, GA 30309
Photos: Chief Photographer Moses Robinson

Thank God, it's not another nightclub. Not that I hang in nightclubs anymore. The Green Room is a new concept for the Atlanta area and it hopes to take advantage of the burgeoning film and TV industry in Georgia. We will have an upcoming interview with one of The Green Room Lounge's partners filmmaker Roger Bobb and some interior shots later.

(L-R) Shannon K. Nash, actress Terri J. Vaughn, recording artist Angie Stone and Diamond Stone

According to a news release, The Green Room is the creative vision of actress and producer and owner Terri J. Vaughn and is co-owned by Business Manger and Attorney Shannon K. Nash, Film Producer Roger Bobb and retired NBA Player, Adonal Foyle. The Green Room is a coffee lounge and one of a kind specialty theatrical bookstore and performance space.

(L-R) Former NBA Player Derek Anderson, Shannon K. Nash, Atlanta Councilman Kwanza Hall, actress Terri J. Vaughn CIO Bobbcat films and Roger Bobb.

The Green Room provides a place for up and coming actors and musicians, established entertainment professionals seeking new talent and for the grown and sexy to relax during the day or evening. The space also includes a 20-25 seat theater, equipped with stage, lights and state of the art sound equipment which will be used for conducting acting workshops, small performances and playing live music.

Terri J. Vaughn and Jasmine Guy.

“There is no other fully stocked Arts and Entertainment bookstore and lounge in Atlanta. The demand is here, the demand is now! Says Ms. Vaughn. “My goal is to provide a lifestyle for Atlanta based talent where they feel that sense of camaraderie, support and nurturing of the acting community that I fell in love with during my 17 years living in Hollywood; as well as a haven for those out of town actors to unwind while filming in Atlanta.” Actors are interesting creatures and we have interesting needs. I plan to serve those needs and more at The Green Room.”

Tommy Ford and Terri J. Vaughn. (Product placement shot.)

If the concept is successful hopefully there will be some major deals being made there and some good connections. And for those actors moving to or visiting Atlanta and Georgia let's keep that Hollywood-type attitude in Hollywood. We don't need that here in the South.

(L-R) Atlanta Councilman Kwanza Hall, actress Malinda Williams, Shannon K. Nash, actress Terri J. Vaughn, Rashan Ali, CIO bobbcat films Roger Bobb and recording artist Kathleen Bertrand attend the grand opening of The Green Room Lounge.

Terri J. Vaughn and Malinda Williams

Singer Kathleen Bertrand has a hot new CD out.

Lisa Wu Hartwell is acting now.

V-103 FM personality Ramona DeBreaux and CEO Bobbcat films Roger Bobb.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed sings "I Did It My Way." No, he didn't. Just kidding.
Don't want to piss off the Mayor.

Actor Cilfton Powell was also in town to conduct a workshop at the Peachtree Village International Film Festival.

Karon Riley and sports broadcaster Doug Stewart of the Two Live Stewarts.

Demetria McKinney

Chef G. Garvin

Alexa Lieberman performs the grand opening of The Green Room Lounge.

NABJ 11 - Philadelphia

2011-08-12T17:17:00.000-04:00

One of the best ways to get over PNB - Post NABJ Blues and to get that NABJ High again is to check out the postings of the attendees' photos. Here are some more of mine. I'm looking forward to New Orleans already. It will be in June next year.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed came to NABJ to be on a panel with Cornell West, Richard Steele and this conservative blogger whose name is missing for now. Rev. Al Sharpton decided not to show. Roland Martin moderated.

Several good points were made during the discussion. One of them was we have to get beyond labels and work together to tackle the challenges facing the black community.

THE HELP

The film "The Help" was well received at the convention. Following the screening for a Q&A were Director/screenwriter Tate Taylor, author of The Help and best friend of Taylor Kathryn Stockett, actress Octavia Spencer and Viola Davis. Moderating was MSNBC's Tamron Hall.

Two-time Tony Award winner Viola Davis plays the maid Aibleen.

Taylor and Stockett have known each other since childhood back in Mississippi. Spencer and Taylor used to live together. Spencer portrays Minny Jackson who has the reputation as the best cook in Mississippi. Ironically, Taylor said he did all of the cooking when they were together because Spencer can not cook. Spencer hung her head in mock shame.

Octavia Spencer met Taylor when they were both production assistants on the film "A Time to Kill."

Kathryn Stockett started writing "The Help" after 9/11. It took her five years. It was rejected by 60 literary agents. She was about to give up when she gave it to Taylor to read. He encouraged her not to give up and said he wanted to make a movie out of it.

Tate Taylor said because the manuscript was not a hot property and Hollywood was not involved, they could make the film their way without any pressures from the suits. The film opened mid-week on a Wednesday with a respectable $5.5 million at the box office.

"RED TAILS" Show and Tell

The promised 30-minute clip of "Red Tails" the film about the Tuskegee Airmen never showed up so the audience was treated to a slide-show-and-tell followed by a Q&A with the producer C. Floyd Johnson and principal actors Cuba Gooding Jr and Terrence Howard. John Ridley wrote the screenplay from a story by George Lucas. Anthony Hemingway directs. The film will open in January 2012.

Watch the trailer at: http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi624270361/

@NABJ PHILLY - Thursday - Job Fair

2011-08-04T18:38:00.002-04:00

Being at NABJ is like being at your professional family reunion. It's always great to see old friends and colleagues. I've seen a few like columnist Doug Lyons who haven't been to the convention in years.

But not only do you get to see old friends and colleagues you get to meet new friends and to converse with the future generation of news and media professionals.

Compared to 2007-09 the mood of the convention is much better. Although the job fair is still smaller than before the industry was ravaged with lay-offs, there is a sense of optimism in the air. Veterans aren't just depending upon corporations any more to employ them. People are developing independent media companies and projects.

There are two gathering places at an NABJ convention to catch up with people - one is the lobby bar of the headquarters hotel and the other is at the Job Fair and Expo site. Here are some random shots from the job fair.

WSB-TV Action News Anchor Jovita Moore.

An attendee gets a massage at the Target booth.

The ESPN booth

The film "The Help" will be shown Saturday.

The Patch.com booth

BET booth

Be all that you can be.

Road To NABJ - Philadelphia

2011-08-02T08:06:00.001-04:00

Attending the largest annual gathering of journalists, media professionals and educators in the world known as NABJ is special. Driving to the National Association of Black Journalists, Inc. (www.nabj.org) convention with fellow journalists and stopping along the way to perform community service projects is extra special. Having the opportunity to do it twice is simply a double blessing.

For the second year General Motor is sponsoring a the community-service project: Road to NABJ. This year it is being sponsored by Chevrolet. The previous year it was sponsored by On Star. (See those reports at: www.youtube.com/samnews76).

Instead of one team departing out of Atlanta, there are two teams of journalists hitting the ground helping
( I love that phrase that GM executive Araba Dowell created.) A team of three journalists and two students are also leaving from Chicago. We will meet up with them in Philadelphia on Tuesday for a joint community project.

The rest of Team Atlanta consists of: Kym Backer, Lifestyle Editor, Upscale magazine, Rodney Thrash, Editor, Canton-Sixes Patch.com; interns Aryelle Cormier, CNN and Aaron Edwards, AJC.

Our first stop was packing groceries bags at the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle and delivering them to a senior citizen complex in Raleigh, NC

Started 1989 by two soccer moms, Jill Staton Bullard and Maxine Solomon, Inter-Faith has grown to become one of the most comprehensive food delivery programs to combat hunger in a community that I am aware of.

Inter-Faith realizes that delivering food to people who don't have easy access to food is one challenge, but the organization and its dedicated staff, volunteers and partners are tackling some of the roots causes of hunger in the Raleigh area..

Their program is so impressive that the hours we spent there just didn't feel like enough. If I went back today and the only thing that needed my help on was to sweep the floors and take out the garbage, I would consider that an honor.

Inter-Faith is one organization certainly worth of your time and donations. Find out more by going to: www.foodshuttle.org.

Below is a short clip during our orientation in the warehouse. Next stop: Washington, D.C.

Follow both teams and NABJ at: @nabjchevy @nabj11.

Top African American Authors @ the NBCC in Atlanta

2011-07-29T15:31:00.000-04:00

Text and photos by Stan Washington

The 9th Annual National Book Club Conference (July 29-31) kicked off Friday at the Hyatt Regency Downtown Atlanta. (www.nationalbookclubconference.com)

As usual the conference will feature some of the nation's top black authors including Zane, Tina McElroy Ansa, Walter Mosley, Omar Tyree, ReShonda Tate Billingsley, Carl Webber, Kimberla Lawson Roby, Tyrese Gibson, and Kimberly Kaye Terry.

The morning began with my friend and former journalism instructor author/publisher Tina Ansa receiving the Bebe Moore Campbell Memorial Award. Ansa reflected on her long friendship with the late author.

Jonee' Ansa making sure I don't run off with a free copy.

I took a reporting class from Tina at Clark College (Atlanta University). At the time she was a copy editor at the Atlanta Constitution. She is an alum of Spelman College.

The afternoon panel Social Media and Books which was moderated by my former Clark classmate Malaika Adero, VP, Atria Books. The panel featured authors Allison Hobbs, Terrance Dean and recent Atlanta transplant Tananarive Due. Near the end of the panel author/publisher Zane added some comments.

Malaika Adero, VP, Atria Books and CAU alum. (SW)

The authors all agree cod that a social media presence is needed today in order to connect with readers and for new readers to find you.

They also recommend some dos and don'ts like: No posting while drinking alcohol; keep your private life private; review what you write before you post it; stay away from personal attacks; don't post your location unless it's a public signing; don't just always talk about your books.

Authors Terrance Dean and Tananarive Due.

Terrance Dean

Allison Hobbs: "I never post when I have been drinking."

Zane said on her social sites she rarely talks about her books because after while people keep tired of only hearing from you when you have something to sell. People like connecting with their authors through social media.

Zane one of the most successful authors in the country. (Did you notice I left out "black"?)

On Saturday at NBCC: Noted author Walter Mosley will kick off the morning session, Author Tyrese Gibson will be interviewed; TV personality Roland S. Martin will receive the Terrie Williams Inspiration Award; and their will be a panel discussion on "The Future of Black Books."

Zane, Malaika Adero, Tananarive Due and Charmaine Roberts Parker. (SW)

The National Book Club Conference was founded in Atlanta by Curtis Bunn, a former sports writer for The AJC. He has authored two novels, the latest being "A Cold Piece of Work" published by Zane's publishing house, Strebor Books. You can find NBCC on Facebook and follow Curtis on Twitter @curtisbunn.

For more information: www.nationalbookclubconference.com.

My last talk with SCLC President Rev. Howard Creecy Jr.

2011-07-28T12:41:00.001-04:00

When I interviewed Rev. Howard Creecy Jr. last month in his office at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference headquarters on Auburn Avenue, he was full of hope and promise that he could help lead the civil rights organization back from its pain and division which nearly destroyed it after two years of in-fighting.

Rev. Howard Creecy Jr. graduated from Douglass High School in Atlanta in 1971 and Morehouse College in 1975. He loved his hometown and he loved SCLC. (c) Stan Washington

The glory days of this civil rights organization which helped changed a nation were a long time ago and before two generations of African Americans were even born. SCLC had coasted too long on its past glories, Creecy said. It was time to once again become an organization of action and his plans was to rebuild its base by recruiting from the college campuses and the churches.

Creecy felt the organization had made an error in thinking the fight was solely in the “suites and not in the streets.” Without a strong base “foot soldiers” the organization could not effectively affect change.

When I told him that I was surprised that he ended up as president because his name was never mentioned publicly as a possible candidate, Creecy, a long time SCLC member enlightened me to his long time involvement through his father,, the late Rev. Creecy Sr.

Creecy stands before photos of his father and himself as a child playing with other sons of the civil rights movement. (c) Stan Washington.

He took me around his office and showed me are photos of his father with leaders of the civil rights movement including Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rev. Ralph D. Abernathy Jr, his father's old college roommate. There is a photo of him as a child playing touch football with the King children. He grew up calling Abernathy and former SCLC officer Andrew Young, “Uncle Ralph and Uncle Andy.”

“SCLC is in my DNA,” he said.

Creecy was excited about SCLC's future. He was determined that the organization was not going fade in oblivion on his watch. He was energetic and didn't show any signs of the time-bomb that was ticking his chest. But most victims never do show any symptoms.

Of course, I could not have known that would be the last time we would sit down and talk about the organization and its future. I just knew that we would have several more conversations – on and off the record for some years to come.

When I saw a Twitter message Thursday morning that the 57 year-old minister of Olivett Church in Fayette County had passed of a heart attack. I first thought that it was his father, but then I remembered he told me that his father passed back in 2008.

Creecy only assumed the office of President in January after Bernice King declined to assume the presidency.

Creecy didn't see himself as “the” savior of SCLC but more as a “bridge” .

“The time is right for a new generation of leadership to emerge. I’m not the new generation of leadership. I’m the bridge between the past and the future. Some people are just bridges and I’m simply a bridge,” he said.

To see my original interview with Creecy check this blog's archives.

Black Colleges Play A Vital Role in President Obama's Plan

2011-07-09T21:21:00.005-04:00

A group of the HBCU presidents appear at a media briefing sponsored by the Southern Education Fund. (SW)

This is an edited version of my recent article which appears in this week's The Atlanta Voice. This posting includes my video interview with Clark Atlanta University President Carlton Brown. His comments are most enlightening.

ATLANTA – If the United States is going to regain its global leadership position in higher education, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) will need to play a major role, says a White House official on education.

Just how the nation's predominately black institutions will participate in that objective was the main topic at a recent Southern Education Fund conference of HBCU presidents in Atlanta.

HBCUs are a critical component in President Obama's national education initiative to restore the U.S. to its former ranking as the world's leader in higher education, said John S. Wilson, Jr., executive director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

John S. Wilson, Jr., executive director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

"We have not been number one since 1995," Wilson said during a media briefing with six HBCU presidents. "We need somewhere around eight million more graduates. Almost two million of them need to be African American, with roughly 200,000 coming from HBCUs.

"That is a big challenge," he said. "That means we have to go from around 36,000 a year of graduates from HBCUs to somewhere north of 50,000 a year by 2020."

Presidents in attendance at the media briefing included: Carlton Brown of Clark- Atlanta University, Beverly Hogan of Tougaloo College, Walter Kimbrough of Philander Smith College, Charlie Nelms of North Carolina Central University, Mary Evans Silas of Kentucky State University, and David Wilson of Morgan State University.

To a person, each college president agreed that HBCUs have a daunting task ahead of them if those graduation goals are to be met.

According to the Council of Higher Education, 60 percent of all black students attend a four-year college.

Of that number, HBCUs graduate about 17 percent of all black students in the U.S.

Black colleges have not done the best job in telling their success stories, the college presidents agreed, arguing that HBCU graduates have gone on to contribute significantly to this nation.

"They contribute to society immensely as outstanding leaders and responsible citizens," said Hogan, president of Tougaloo College in Mississippi. "America will not be able to maintain global competitiveness or even maintain national security without the products that we are turning out in our institutions."

If HBCUs are going to be considered a serious partner in the Obama initiative, however, they must make some critical changes, said North Carolina Central University Chancellor Charlie Nelms said.

"We have to raise our standards, not just for students but for faculty, staff, presidents, chancellors and trustees," Nelms said. "We have to hold ourselves to a higher level of accountability. We have to reform gateway courses. We have too many students who are not making it through their basic courses and they are not able to go on to their majors."

Returning the U.S. to its premier educational status also is going to be tough, too, if a number of components of the educational process – including the nation's troubled K-12 school system – are not re-evaluated, said Brown of Clark Atlanta.

"What we (HBCUs) do must be taken into context with a whole other set of national issues," Brown said. "We are being beaten as a nation in producing scientists on the PhD level. We are being beaten in the way we position our scientists to innovate and translate those inventions into products and into businesses."

"So in one sense, it is sheer folly to be talking about increasing the number of bachelor degree recipients," he added, "without simultaneously talking about the rest of the agenda."

Can SCLC Find Its Way Again?

2011-07-01T00:30:00.001-04:00

In its glory days of decades past, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) successfully fought against Jim Crow laws and fought to get the landmark Voting Rights Act passed. Those days are far behind them.

Rev. Creecy: SCLC will re-establish its connection with its base - students and churches.

In recent years, it only made headlines from in-fighting which at one point seemed to do what former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover couldn't do – destroy it.

The Atlanta-based civil rights organization found itself in court not to change some unjust law, but to determine who were the rightful members of the board of directors. The fight stalled the installation of its President-elect Bernice King, the youngest daughter of one of the co-founders of the organization Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

When the courts finally determined who was the rightful board, King resigned the position saying that she and the board had a difference in opinion of how the organization should be run.

The board then surprisingly selects Atlanta minister Rev. Howard Creecy Jr. to fill the position. It may seem strange to some observers that the Rev. Creecy Jr. ended up as the president of the embattled Southern Christian Leadership Conference, but not to this third generation minister.

There are photos of his father Rev. Creecy Sr. with leaders of the civil rights movement including Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rev. Ralph D. Abernathy Jr, his father's old college roommate. There is a photo of him as a child playing touch football with the King children. He grew up calling Abernathy and former SCLC officer Andrew Young, “Uncle Ralph and Uncle Andy.”

Rev. Creecy's office is full of photos of his father and other SCLC leaders.

“SCLC is in my DNA,” Creecy said proudly during a wide-ranging interview at SCLC headquarters located on the historic Auburn Avenue.

The senior minister of Olivet Church in Fayetteville is confident that he can restore the organization to its former leadership position in the struggle against injustice. Below are some excerpts from the interview.

Why did you decide to accept the position of President?

Rev. Howard Creecy: Being on the inside, I knew the truth was not being told. The story was being spun in accurately and what we were fighting for in terms of the court struggle was not being reported by the press. The press made this an internal fight about personalities, politics, positions and power and that never was what the fight was about. It was about governing according to laws and the constitution of the organization. Now SCLC must take some responsibility in the mis-reporting because we should have had a press person on board, we should have done a better job of telling our own story. We dropped the ball there.

So what are some of your plans to clear up the false notion that SCLC is not a relevant functioning organization?

Creecy: The time is right for a new generation of leadership to emerge. I’m not the new generation of leadership. I’m the bridge between the past and the future. Some people are just bridges and I’m simply a bridge. The first thing we have to do is re-brand ourselves and separate ourselves from its conflictual contemporary history. We want people to know that we are SCLC Today. SCLC TODAY is different from the recent past. To some SCLC is considered a museum of the movement. SCLC TODAY must be a movement. TODAY stands for Transforming Our Destiny through Activism and Youth. The first time we will do is rebuild our credibility, our visibility and our viability.

Rev. Creecy says that any disgruntled member is welcomed to come back.

AV: Is there a new initiative that you are excited about?

Creecy: Our 2012 initiative with partners across America on Project Vote which stands for Voter Opportunity Training and Education. The federal election in 2012 is so pivotal for people of color. There is a strange ‘tea’ that is brewing in the land and it is not palatable to our survivability. And we need 2012, partners, organizations, churches, individuals who will partner with us around the 2012 federal elections to make sure our voice is heard.

Real Men Cook to Make Changes Next Year

2011-06-24T19:32:00.000-04:00

This year's edition of the Real Men Cook was cramped and sweltering inside and out. But one of the spokespersons for the annual Father's Day event promises that it will not be that cramp next year.

For years the event has been staged at the Trolley Depot at Underground Atlanta. This year it moved to an exhibition hall at the Atlanta Civic Center on Piedmont Road. The atmosphere was not the same and the space was half the size. Not to mention parking was more also at $8.

The grills were on the outside. (SW)

The depot has character and atmosphere. This exhibition hall was just an undersized room with no personality. Fortunately, the food was up to par even if the atmosphere was lacking.

Organizers had hope that most of the crowd would spend some time outside where the barbeque tents were, but it was sweltering outside and most of the crowd spent their time inside soaking up every available ounce of air conditioning.

Assignment Now Chief Photographer Moses Robinson returned to competition in the appetizer category. His seafood pasta salad lost to filmmaker Roger Bobb's special hot wings.

Assignment Now Chief Photographer Moses Robinson dishing it out with both hands.

Next year, the event will use more of the indoor space which is available to them, said spokesperson Diane Larche. Ideally, they would have loved to have staged it in the larger exhibition gallery, but it was being occupied by the production company filming "The Three Stooges" around town.

There was plenty of food for the crowd and since there were no reported cases of heat-stroke, I guess one can call it a successful event.

Roger Bobb of Bobcat Films and actress Demetria McKinney.

The turkey sliders were on point. I think I had four or five.

Miss Black Georgia USA 2011.

Comedian/actor Don "DC" Curry.

Asa Hillard Jr., son of the late noted professor Asa Hillard and former East Point Mayor Patsy Hillard with his bundle of joy.

The "real deal" bean pie.

Moses Robinson and the Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders.

All photos by Stan Washington

Studios Expecting A Big Summer At The Movies

2011-05-27T20:55:00.000-04:00

(Note: This article also appears in this week's edition of The Atlanta Voice.)

The summer movie season is fully underway and the movie studios, plus some independent filmmakers are hoping you are ready to spend most of the your entertainment budget with them. The studio movie industry is hoping to reverse three straight years of declining box office receipts.

So what can you expect this summer? Don't look for any mega-budget films featuring any major African American actors in the lead. You will have to wait until August to see “The Help” which has any significant numbers of black actors. The film is based on the best-selling novel “The Help” , which is set in the 1960s in Jackson, Miss. The story follows a young white female reporters who writes about the black maids who work in white households.

THE HELP: Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer. (Dreamworks Pictures)

There will be plenty of fare for the comic/fantasy fan with films like Thor, Green Lantern, the final Harry

Potter film, Cowboys & Aliens, Captain America: The First Avenger, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides; Rise of the Planet of the Apes; and Spy Kids 4.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Johnny Depp and Penelope Cruz. (Walt Disney Pictures)

But there are films for those who don't care for the special effects fare like, The First Grader, Midnight In Paris, Beaver, The Tree of Life, Trust, Desert Flower, Beginners, Buck, Homework, One Day, Another Earth, The Guard, Bellflower, Higher Ground, Potiche, Everything Must Go and Life, Above All.

With a matinee showing of a 3-D movie costing around $9, going to the movies is no longer considered an inexpensive night out. We aren't even going to throw in the additional costs of food and transportation.

The film The Tree of Life starring Brad Pitt won the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

(Fox Searchlight Pictures)

Here is a sample worth checking out. The offerings include something for children, teens and adults. To see trailers and schedules of most of these films at www.moviefone.com

In Theaters – The Studios

Jumping the Broom (Cast: Paula Patton, Laz Alonso, Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine and Mike Epps. Directed by Salim Akil) – Getting an early jump on summer (May 6), the family comedy co-produced by Bishop T. D. Jakes and Tracey Edmonds, has received good critical and audience reviews. It is one of the few films targeted towards African American audiences that have attempted to open in May.

Thor (Cast: Chris Hemsworth and Anthony Hopkins. Directed by Kenneth Branagh)

You can't have a summer without superheroes, and their will be enough to satisfy comic book fans. Chris Hemsworth portrays a believable Thor, God of Thunder as portrayed in Marvel Comics. If you are a Thor comic book purist (like my brother Steve) you maybe somewhat disappointed, but I think Branagh did a good job in pleasing the fans of the comic book and also those who have seen it. A word of warning, don't play the extra to see it in 3-D. It was converted to 3-D and that's the worst kind of 3-D you can see. Three-D movies are much better when they are shot that way.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (Cast: Johnny Depp, Penelope Cruz and Ian McShane. Directed by Rob Marshall, 3D). This franchised based on a Disney theme park ride has grossed $2.68 billion worldwide. It's been four years since the last film. Demographics for these films ranged from middle-schoolers to early 40s. Critics have been kind to it, but they are not overwhelmed.

Avoid: Something Borrowed; Priest; and Madea's Big Happy Family. (Tyler Perry's worst movie.)

May 26

Kung Fu Panda 2: 3D (Paramount) – There would be no “2”, it the first one didn't do well at the box office. The first one was a surprise hit with both kids and adults. Can the magic be repeated? The studio has its fingers crossed.

The Hangover Part II (Cast: Bradley Cooper, Ed helms, Zach Galifianakis and Ken Jeong Directed by Todd Phillips) I took a chance and watched the original one night when I couldn't find anything else I wanted to see listed in the Big Redbox movie dispenser. That's was the best dollar I have ever spent on a film. I laughed out loud through the entire movie. It's a comedy classic. I haven't reviewed this one yet, but I'm really pulling for it, particularly since the original cast of misfits have returned.

June 3

X-Men: First Class – (Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Kevin Bacon, Directed by Matthew Vaughn) - The first installment from Marvel Comics offers a look at the beginning of the X-Men. This prequel stars James McAvoy and the young Charles Xavier (Professor X) and Michael Fassbender as Erik Lehnsherr (Magneto). The film focuses on their friendship when they first discover their powers and before Magneto decided it was better to rule mankind instead of trying to save them.

June 10:

Super 8 (Cast: Elle Fanning and Joel Courtney Directed by J.J. Abrams) Abrams pays homage to the early films of Steven Spielberg who produced this film about a group of kids in 1979 who witnessed a train wreck as they are shooting a zombie scene one night. Unfortunately, for this Ohio town, the train was carrying special cargo from Area 51. An alien, maybe?

Ryan Reynolds is the Green Lantern. (Warner Bros.)

June 17

*Green Lantern (Warner Bros. 3D)

*Bad Teacher (Sony)

*Mr. Popper's Penguins (Fox)

June 24

*Cars 2 (Disney/Pixar, 3D)

July 1

*Larry Crowne (Universal)

*Monte Carlo (Fox)

*Transformers: Dark of the Moon (Paramount, 3D)

July 8

*Horrible Bosses (Warner Bros./New Line)

*Zookeeper (Sony/MGM)

*One Day (Focus Features)

July 15

*Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II (Warner Bros., 3D)

*Winnie the Pooh (Disney)

Chris Evans is Captain America: The First Avenger . (Paramount Pictures)

July 22

*Captain America: The First Avenger (Paramount/Marvel, 3D)

*Friends With Benefits (Sony/Screen Gems)

*Another Earth (Fox Searchlight)

July 29

*Cowboys & Aliens (Universal/Dreamworks)

*Crazy, Stupid, Love (Warner Bros.)

*The Guard (Sony Pictures Classics)

*The Smurfs (Sony, 3D)

August 5

*Rise of the Planet of the Apes (Fox)

*The Change-Up (Universal)

August 12

*The Help (Disney/Dreamworks)

*30 Minutes of Less (Sony)

*Don't Be Afraid of the Dark (FilmDistrict)

August 19

*Conan the Barbarian (Lionsgate, 3D)

*Fright Night (Disney/Dreamworks, 3D)

*Spy Kids 4: All the time in the World (Weinstein Co., 3D)

August 26

*Final Destination 5 (Warners/New Line)

- Stan Washington

Black Enterprise Entrepreneur Confab - ATL

2011-05-23T16:03:00.001-04:00

ASSIGNMENT: Black Enterprise Entrepreneur Confab

All photos by Stan Washington (c) 2011

Black and minority entrepreneurs from the country have descended upon Atlanta for the annual Black Enterprise Entrepreneur Conference at the Marriott Marquis in Atlanta (May 23-24).

Attendance numbers haven't been released but judging by today's sessions, they are full. Today's award's luncheon in the grand ballroom was full.

MC Hammer being interviewed by BE Multimedia Editorial Director Sonia Alleyne.

Atlanta's own WVEE-FM 103 morning announcer Frank Ski and wife Tonya received an award for their work with the Frank Ski Kids Foundation.

The Skis announced that applications are now being accepted for teens between the ages of 14-15 for their upcoming trip to the Bahamas.

(Left-right: BE Founder Earl Graves, Sr., Frank and Tonya Ski, Earl "Butch" Graves.)

Awards were also presented to Teen Entrepreneurs: The Holland Brothers; BE Next Award: Roadstar Motorsports, Inc., Hussein and Hassan Iddrissu (brothers); Business Innovator: Magnagrip, Inc. - Andre Woolery. Small Business of the Year: Coalescence LLC – Ian Y. Blount and Angela N. Cauley (www.coalescencellc.com)

BE Small Business of the Year: Coalescence LLC – Ian Y. Blount and Angela N. Cauley

The featured speaker for the luncheon was MC Hammer who has become a social media guru. He was interviewed by BE Multimedia Editorial Director Sonia Alleyne.

Attendees at the Black Enterprise Entrepreneur's Conference meeting in Atlanta at the Marriott Marquis.

Don't forget to check out the conference on the BE site at: http://www.blackenterprise.com/

B.E. Entrepreneur Confab to Webcast in ATL

2011-05-22T11:26:00.000-04:00

From Black Enterprise

(Note: Assignment Now will be reporting daily from the conference site. - Stan )

Beginning on May 23, BlackEnterprise.com will live stream a series of power-packed workshops, motivational keynotes and nightly entertainment from the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference Hosted by Nationwide Insurance. The real time broadcast, sponsored by Pepsi, will be available at www.blackenterprise.com/ec.

The live stream schedule is as follows:

MONDAY, MAY 23, 2011

8:00-8:15 a.m. Earl “Butch” Graves Jr., President & CEO, BLACK ENTERPRISE

8:30-9:15 a.m. Keynote: Dennis Kimbro, Professor, Clark Atlanta University School of Business Administration. Hosted byNationwide Insurance

9:30-10:45 a.m. Go Digital or Die Trying: Building Your Business Through Social Media

12:30-2:00 p.m. The Black Enterprise Small Business Awards with a one-on-one conversation with Alchemist Management Founder & CEO MC Hammer Hosted by Ariel Investments.

3:45-4:45 p.m. BE Small Business Success Boot Camp^tm: Fire Your Boss in 12 months or less! Hosted by AT&T. Follow the conversation on Twitter with Hashtag #fireyourboss

7:30-9:00 p.m. The BLACK ENTERPRISE Elevator Pitch Competition awarding $10,000 for the best new business idea with judges Earl “Butch” Graves, Jr., President & CEO, Black Enterprise; Magnus Greaves, Founder, The CASHFLOW; Star Jones, Author, Attorney & TV Personality; and J. Anthony Brown, Comedian & Radio Personality, The Tom Joyner Morning Show. Hosted by PepsiCo

TUESDAY, MAY 24

8:15-9:00 a.m. Keynote Address: How Lisa Price Became One of the Most Envied Entrepreneurs in America. Hosted byWalmart

9:15-10:30 a.m. Access Granted: Money Making Opportunities in Entertainment with Chris Lighty, Founder, Violator Management; Marvet Britto, Founder, The Britto Agency; and Will Packer, Co-Founder, Rainforest Films.

10:45-12:00 p.m. BE Next: Young Entrepreneurs: Tap into the Millionaire Mindset

12:15-1:30 p.m. A conversation with Black Enterprise magazine Founder & Publisher Earl G. Graves Sr. Hosted by Buick

1:45-3:00 p.m. Mastering Web Technology Hosted by American Express OPEN

8:00-10:00pm BE100s Anniversary Celebration & Awards Gala where BLACK ENTERPRISE will name its 2011 Companies of the Year as featured in its June double issue.

The BlackEnterprise.com live stream presentation is powered by Alivelook.com. Visit us at Facebook.com/BlackEnterprise andTwitter.com/BlackEnterprise for updates.

The 2011 Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference + Expo hosted by Nationwide Insurance is presented by American Express OPEN, Ariel Investments, Buick, General Motors, PepsiCo and Walmart. Platinum sponsors include AT&T, FedEx, Southern Company, United Healthcare, Wells Fargo and Wendy’s International. Corporate partners include ADT Business Solutions, Georgia-Pacific, Google, PR Newswire and Staceywines.com.

Guy and Leon Heat Up the Stage in 'Fool for Love'

2011-05-13T18:38:00.000-04:00

Fool for Love by Sam Shepard

May 13 – June 11

Balzer Theater @ Herrens Downtown Atlanta

Directed by Todd Kreidler

Starring Jasmine Guy, Kenny Leon, Enoch King

truecolorstheatre.org

Critics consider “Fool for Love” one of Sam Shepard's best plays. Set in motel room, the play is a haunting tale of obsession, love, denial and the relationship between two people who can’t live with or without each other.

Two weeks before opening night, I sat down one morning with the two principal actors for a talk about the play and their professional relationship. Jasmine Guy became the producing director for True Colors Theatre Company this year. This is there first time working on the stage together as actors.

As we sat in the green room backstage of the Balzer Theatre downtown talking, I reflected back on how long I have known the two of them. I started covering both of them at the start of their careers. I first watched Kenny Leon in productions at our alma mater Clark Atlanta University. I first interviewed Jasmine when she was 18 and touring with the road company of the musical “The Wiz” as one of the scarecrows. Now here we are decades later seasoned veterans in our chosen professions and still doing what we love.

The following are excerpts from our interview.

ASSIGNMENT NOW: Kenny Leon, have you ever been a fool for love?

Kenny Leon: Oh, absolutely. I have definitely been a fool for love.

AN: And what did you learn from the experience?

KL: It was when I was younger. Sometimes as men we believe the hype. We think we are all that and sometimes we may mess over a beautiful woman because we are feeling our oats. So in my maturation of becoming a good man of which I am now, when you are younger sometimes you don't give the woman the full value of the respect that you should. And I called that a fool for love.

FOOL FOR LOVE: Jasmine Guy and Kenny Leon (True Colors)

AN: What is it about this particular Sam Shepard play that made you want to do it?

KL: I had performed in this play a long time ago with (late ex-wife) Carol Mitchell. At the time, I was around 29 and now I realize that I didn't know the play. In fact, I can't remember one line from the other production. So that told me, I must have been doing a lot of acting back then. A lot of acting – in the bad sense. But as I look at the play, I see that Shepard is a great writer. He writes the way people talk and but yet he is poetic which remains me in a sense of August Wilson.

It's an intense play. It's short. It's a universal play because it explores the boundaries of love. This is about two people when they discover love, how they discover love, how they love to be together but they can't stand to be together. It explores the parameters of love. You can do this play without an actor that you trust so it is good to be on stage with an actor that supports you and you trust.

(Jasmine Guy who is rarely late for anything walks into the green room.)

AN: So Jasmine have you ever been a fool for love?

Jasmine Guy: (She gives me that look of: Here you go again with those probing questions.) Yeah, a few times.

AN: Why a few times?

JG: I think when you are in a relationship you are not really sure if you are doing the right thing or not for yourself. I think it takes some time. It might take less time for me now to determine that, but earlier in my life I would see a relationship to the bitter end before I would give up or move on.

Kenny Leon and Jasmine Guy in dress rehearsal at the Balzer Theatre.

AN: This (professional) relationship between you and Jasmine is still a young relationship and I wondered with the intensity of this type of play is it too soon for you two to be on staging acting together?

(They both look at me with a bewildered expression that says Where the heck did that question come from?)

KL: I think it's a natural progression of our professional relationship. We've worked together with me directing her in “Miss Evers' Boys” and then she directed a beautiful production of “For Colored Girls” and she has directed other productions. And actually, I think there wasn't any where else for us to go professionally but on stage together. It doesn't seem like its too soon and it doesn't seem like it's too late. I totally trust her and respect her. I couldn't think of anyone else I would want to go on stage and do this play with.

JG: My relationship since I've moved here has been an adventure, and one that is very special and sacred to me. And I accept all opportunities that present themselves when it comes to Kenny, whether it is to direct or act. It never occurs to me to say no when he asks me to do something.

Enoch King and Kenny Leon. (True Colors)

AN: Jasmine, tell me about your character. What did you discover about her? Did you know the play?

JG: No. (She giggles.) I learned about her last week. I really know Mae. I don't know when it happened but I realized the crevices of my emotional journey on stage were familiar to me and made me not circumstantially, but definitely I knew every place she had been. And for me that is a good place to come from. Yesterday, I realized that I had a love for the play. That usually doesn't come right away. I know what her desperation is, that kind of love is, I know how is it when you want to make love to someone and hit them at the same time. Her familiarity to me feels great. That's why I love rehearsals.

AN: Kenny, your character. Who is this guy?

KL: I'm still trying to find this guy. I know some parts of him. I'm still exploring him. Like I said before, when I did the play last time, I don't know what the hell I was doing. Now I feel that I have the life experiences to understand this human being. Now I understand what it is to really want someone but not able to have them, but still want them. So there is a lot of duplicity in the character So actually, you feel like you are going crazy as you are doing the play, but there is a certain amount of joy in leaving yourself and not have to think about other plays or your board of directors or raising money. I have a lot going on. The place ends up being an escape for me. I can be Eddie for two hours and don't have to deal with the problems on my cell phone.

- Stan Washington

Terence Blanchard @ CAU's Jazz Under the Stars

2011-05-09T20:06:00.001-04:00

Under a cool, clear spring sky, Grammy Award-winner composer and musician Terence Blanchard and his quintet last Saturday gave a masterful performance at the 18^th Annual Jazz Under the Stars on the campus of Clark Atlanta University.

Opening for Blanchard were the internationally-noted CAU Jazz Orchestra and the CAU Jazz Vocal Ensemble. Funds from the concert and the silent auction will benefit the school's scholarship fund.

Blanchard proved once again why he is considered one of the top jazz musicians playing today. Considered a true “renaissance” artist with more than 29 albums to his credit. He is also a five-time Grammy winner with more than 50 scores to his credit.

Blanchard said he would be interested in returning to Atlanta in November during the Bronze Lens Film Festival to teach a workshop in film scoring, said a representative of the festival.

Bryce Winston (SW)

Joe Sanders. (SW)

Drummer Kendrick Scott feeling it. (SW)

WCLK-FM announcer Carl Anthony, Clark Atlanta University President Dr. Carlton Brown and The First Lady LaVerne Ricks-Brown welcomes the audience to the 18th edition of Jazz Under the Stars. (c) 2011 Stan Washington

The audience at CAU's Jazz Under the Stars. (SW)

WCLK-FM (91.9) announcer Carl Anthony hosts "Serenade To The City".

CAU Jazz Voice Ensemble and Director Dr. Lloyd Mallory Jr., prepare to go on.

The CAU Jazz Orchestra under the direction of James H. Patterson. The orchestra has played with some of the greats in jazz. (SW)

CAU's first president Dr. Thomas Cole and Judge Brenda Cole. Judge Cole founded Jazz Under the Stars. (SW)

Anheuser-Busch's Miranda Mack (right) makes sure her product is in the shot.

Pauline Morgan White, columnist for The Atlanta Inquirer and friend. (SW)

Jazz Under the Stars @ CAU. (SW)

Dr. Thomas Cole shares a few words with former Ambassador Andrew Young. (SW)

Dr. Carlton Brown and LaVerne Ricks-Brown (SW)

Audrey M. Johnson, Chair of the CAU Guild. Funds raised from the concert go to scholarships. (SW)

Attorney Donald Edwards and wife Jo Bell Edwards. (SW)

Jerry Thomas and Andrea Young.

Friday @ The Atlanta Film Festival

2011-05-06T15:29:00.002-04:00

The Atlanta Film Festival announced Thursday after the second sold-out showing of the Kenny Leon documentary "The Start of Dreams" by the Atlanta-based Horne Brothers that it will be show an unprecedented third time 10 a.m. Saturday at the Landmark Midtown Theater.

The inspiring documentary focuses on three themes: the career of True Colors Theatre co-founder Kenny Leon's career which has taken him from theater stage at Clark College to the bright lights of Broadway; three Atlanta high school finalists who participated in one of Leon's pet projects, the August Wilson Monologue Competition and the importance of supporting the arts.

Former NBA star Grant Hill will be in attendance tonight at 7 p.m. along with his mentor 80 year-old Coach Al Buehler for the documentary "Starting at The Finish Line: The Coach Buehler Story".

Coach K, Coach Buehler and former NBA star Grant Hill.

By the time the festival wraps on Saturday night, May 7, more than 125 narrative films, documentaries, and short films would have been screened. The festival concludes with an awards ceremony and the Closing Night film, “Africa United”, 7 p.m. at Landmark Midtown Theater in Atlanta.

Directed by Debs Gardner-Patterson, “Africa United” tells the story of three Rwandan kids who walk 3,000 miles to the Soccer World Cup in South Africa. Using a World Cup wallchart, these children set off in pursuit of an unlikely dream which takes them on an epic walk through seven countries. Through their journey viewers get to see an Africa that few people rarely get to see.

Closing Atlanta Film Festival Film: "Africa United."

In recognition, of their 35^th year, the Atlanta Film Festival is having a showing of the classic film “Taxi

Driver” starring Robert DeNiro and directed by Martin Scorsese.

Atlanta Film Festival Board President Walker Anderson feels that this year's festival is the best one in 35 years.

“With over 1,500 films submitted, our programmers have risen to the challenge and have created a strong and diverse line-up of films that is worthy of a 35^th anniversary celebration,” Anderson said.

The festival is also sponsoring a series of workshops for those looking to break into films in front of and behind the cameras.

There are about 23 selections under the category of “Georgia On My Mind” that feature stories which either were made in Georgia or have a connection to the state.

Atlanta thief and crack dealer Curtis Snow explores the legal side of his talents when he receives a video camera in a dope deal. The documentary about his life will be shown Saturday night at 11:30.

Part-time Atlanta resident actress Jane Fonda is one of several voice of women over 50 who are interviewed for the documentary “Get Real! Wise Women Speak” which will be shown on Friday evening at 9:30.

Some of the remaining highlights from the festival are:

Hot Coffee (documentary) 95 min. Director: Susan Saladoff
Fri. May 6, 4:30 pm - Landmark Midtown
The "McDonald's Coffee Case" has been routinely cited by the media as an example of how citizenss have taken advantage of the legal system. Most people think they know everything about this case but what they don't know is that corporations have spent millions distorting it to promote tort reform. With this groundbreaking documentary director Saladoff reveals how big business, aided by the media, brewed a dangerous concoction of manipulation and lies to protect corporate interests. By following four people whose lives were devastated by the attacks on our courts, the film challenges the assumptions Americans hold about "jackpot justice."

White Irish Drinkers (narrative) 109 min. Director: John Gray
Fri., May 6, 7 pm - Landmark Midtown
A coming of age story set in 1975 working-clkass Brooklyn in which two teenage brothers living with their abusive father and their well-meaning, but ineffective mother are caught up in a life of petty crime.

Incendies (narrative) 130 min. Director: Denis Villeneuve

Fri., May 6, 7 pm – Plaza Theater

A mother's last wishes send twins Jeanne and Simon on a journey to Middle East in search of their tangled roots. Adapted from Wajdi Mouawad's acclaimed play, Incendies tells the powerful and moving tale of two young adults' voyage to the core of deep-rooted hatred, never-ending wars and enduring love. (Canada, France)

Starting At The Finish Line: The Coach Buehler Story (documentary) Director: Amy E. Unell 67 min. Fri., May 6, 8 pm - Landmark Midtown
For 55 years. Duke University coach Al Buehler has inspired countless athletes and met enormous challenges -- breaking new ground, in race relations, women's athletics and international sport. Now, Al Buehler faces his latest challenge - an inoperable benign brain tumor. (Coach Buehler is expected to attend. A Q&A will follow.)

Get Real! Wise Women Speak (documentary) 80 min. Director: Joni Steel Kimberlin

Fri., May 6, 9:30 pm – Landmark Midtown

Approximately 60 million American women are over the age of 50 and as the world becomes more complex, the planet cries out for the wisdom of older women. Interviews include Nobel Laureates, artists, grandmothers, indigenous shamans, scientists, businesswomen, political leaders, activists and educators. The film features Jane Fonda, Della Reese, Marianne Williamson and many others.

CINformation Seminar Series
Get Your Child Into Commercials and Movies
Sat., May 7, 10 am - Landmark Midtown

Co-Dependent Lesbian Space Alien Seeks Same (narrative) 76 min Director: Madeleine Olnek
Sat., May 7, 2:45 pm - Landmark Midtown
The adventures of lebian space aliens on planet Eart, and the romance between Jane, a shy greeting card store employee, and Zoinx, the woman Jane does not realize is from Outer Space.

Snow On Tha Bluff (documentary) 79 min Director: Damon Russell

Sat., May 7, 11:30 pm, Landmark Midtown

The story of Atlanta thief and crack dealer, Curtis Snow who lifted a camera from some college kids in a dope deal and made a documentary about his life.

www.atlantafilmfestival.com

Atlanta Film Festival Wraps Saturday

2011-05-05T17:37:00.001-04:00

An Atlanta drug dealer turned filmmaker, an Atlanta-based Broadway director and an Academy Award-winning actress/children activist, will be featured during the final days of the 35^th Atlanta Film Festival.

Closing Atlanta Film Festival Film: "Africa United."

In recognition, of their 35^th year, the Atlanta Film Festival is having a showing of the classic film “Taxi

Driver” starring Robert DeNiro and directed by Martin Scorsese. The film “Network” was shown on Tuesday.

Atlanta Film Festival Board President Walker Anderson feels that this year's festival is the best one in 35 years.

The festival is also sponsoring a series of workshops for those looking to break into films in front of and behind the cameras.

There are about 23 selections under the category of “Georgia On My Mind” that feature stories which either were made in Georgia or have a connection to the state.

The Horne Brothers, director Kenny Leon, Jasmine Guy and Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed at the premiere of

"Start of Dreams". (SW)

Actor/director Kenny Leon is the subject of “The Start of Dreams,” a documentary by the Atlanta-based filmmakers The Horne Brothers. The world-premiere will be Thursday, May 5, at the Landmark Midtown Theater.

Filmmaker Ryon Horne and his wife, Latrisha (left) meet up with The Start of Dreams producer Jennifer Thompson.

Atlanta thief and crack dealer Curtis Snow explores the legal side of his talents when he receives a video camera in a dope deal. The documentary about his life will be shown Saturday night.

Part-time Atlanta resident actress Jane Fonda is one of several voice of women over 50 who are interviewed for the documentary “Get Real! Wise Women Speak” which will be shown on Friday evening.

Some of the remaining highlights from the festival are:

The Start of Dreams (documentary) 97 min. Director: Byron Horne

Thurs., May 5, 6:45 pm – Landmark Midtown

A no-holds barred look into the fast-paced life of director Kenny Leon, as he juggles his Broadway career, running his successful theater company True Colors, and helping kids achieve their dreams of performing on the Great White Way.

Snow On Tha Bluff (documentary) 79 min Director: Damon Russell

Sat., May 7, 11:30 pm, Landmark Midtown

The story of Atlanta thief and crack dealer, Curtis Snow who lifted a camera from some college kids in a dope deal and made a documentary about his life.

Page One: Inside the New York Times (documentary) 100 min. Director: Andrew Rossi

Thurs., May 5, 7 pm – Landmark Midtown

Unprecedented access to the New York Times newsroom yields a complex view of the transformation of a media landscape fraught with both peril and opportunity.

BeatBoxing: The Fifth Element of Hip-Hop (documentary) 55 min. Director: Klaus Scheyder

Thurs., May 5, 10 pm – Landmark Midtown

In the late 70s, a youth culture evolved in the poorer parts of New York City combining several disciplines under the name of Hip Hop.” In addition to the four classic elements of graffiti, DJing, Breakdancing and Rapping, the musical side of this culture was enhanced by a fifth element called “Beatboxing.”

Get Real! Wise Women Speak (documentary) 80 min. Director: Joni Steel Kimberlin

Fri., May 6, 9:30 pm – Landmark Midtown

Incendies (narrative) 130 min. Director: Denis Villeneuve

Fri., May 6, 7 pm – Plaza Theater

www.atlantafilmfestival.com

Atlanta Hawks Look To Close Out Orlando

2011-04-26T17:13:00.001-04:00

Atlanta Hawks @ Orlando Magic

NBA Play-offs First Round: Atlanta leads 3-1, at Orlando

Game Time: 7:30 p.m., April 26, 2011

Broadcast: Sports South/NBA TV

Leading 3-1, against the Orlando Magic in the first round of the play-offs, the Atlanta Hawks look to close out the series tonight (Tuesday) in the Magic Kingdom. The win would avenge last year's first round sweep by the Magic and move the Hawks to the second round against the Chicago Bulls.

The Hawks protected home court last Sunday in a not-so pretty 88-85 win over the Magic at the Highlight Factory. Once again Jason Crawford had another stellar game coming off the bench. He led the Hawks with 25 points and six assists, tying his play-off career high. Joe Johnson finished the night with 20 points and nine boards and have four clutch free throws in the waning minutes of the game.

Hawks center Al Horford had another double-double with 14 points and 12 boards. Kirk Hinrich also had 14 buckets.

Hometown son Dwight Howard led the Magic with 29 points and 17 rebounds but his efforts have not been enough to carry his team to victory. You can expect another double-double night for him at Orlando. Gilbert Arenas came off the bench and scored 20 points in the second half.

After serving a one game suspension without pay, the Hawks, Zaza Pachulia and the Magics' Jason Richardson will return to the court tonight.

Orlando will be looking to improve in a number of areas, particularly three-point shooting. They were an abysmal 2 for 23 from beyond the three-point line.

First year head coach Larry Drew told Hawks.com that they were going to try and close out the series tonight, but they know it's not going to be easy.

“This is the type of game coaches live for...players live for,” Drew said. “A game like this will help us grow as a team.”

Drew credits “energy and effort” as two of the reasons the Hawks have fared so well against the Magic during the play-offs and the regular season. “Everyone has stepped up their game,” he said.

If the Hawks lose, Game 5 will be in Orlando, Game 6 will be in Atlanta and Game 7 will be in Orlando.

The Game 4 photos below are by Assignment Now Chief Photographer Moses Robinson.

Www.atlantahawks.com

Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic shoots over Josh Powell #12 of the Atlanta Hawks in Game Four. Howard had 29 points and 17 rebounds.

Joe Johnson #2 of the Atlanta Hawks shoots against Quentin Richardson #5 of the Orlando Magic in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.

Josh Smith #5 of the Atlanta Hawks shoots against Hedo Turkoglu #15 and Dwight Howard #12

Jamal Crawford #11 of the Atlanta Hawks drives pass Jameer Nelson #14 and Ryan Anderson #33 of the Orlando Magic during Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals

A Special Evening with Stevie Wonder

2011-04-17T15:44:00.001-04:00

( I originally wrote this piece for this week's Atlanta Voice, but I was unable to post it from their site. - Stan)

Stevie Wonder Brings His Message of
Love and Music To Spelman College

Spelman's Sisters Chapel was back to see Stevie Wonder. (All photos by Stan Washington)

Music legend and activist Stevland Hardaway Morris aka Stevie Wonder brought his special brand of music, his message of love and peace and his infectious humor before a packed audience during a Founders Day program at Spelman College Sisters Chapel.

What was titled as An Evening Conversation with Stevie Wonder hosted by Spelman President Dr. Beverly D. Tatum turned into a musical love fest with the award-winning singer and composer.

Wonder spent a quick hour playing and remembering about some of his many hits like “Living for the City” and “My Cherie Amour” which we found out was on the B side of a 45 when it was released, but Wonder felt it should have been on the A side.

Is it time to go already?

“I left Motown after I turned 21 one because I wanted more control of my music,” he said.

Wonder said he will always have special memories of Atlanta because it was the destination of his first flight when he was 12 years old. He later because closed friends with Coretta Scott King and played a key role in getting Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday made into a national holiday. He met King in Chicago in 1966.

Between comments about his illustrious 50-year career, Wonder's message was of love and tolerance for one another. He asked for more tolerance between people of different nations and religions.

“We need to start loving one another again,” Wonder said.

When the mixed generations of fans weren't singing along with Wonder, he had then laughing hard at some of his comments. He would playful admonished the crowd with a, “Simmer down, simmer down now.”

“Do teachers still say that in the classroom?” he asked.

The time when by so quickly that even Wonder was quite ready to leave, as Dr. Tatum was wrapping up the program. “I could go on like this for hours,” he said.

Not even Stevie was ready for the evening to end. He sat back down for two more songs.

As Tatum was about to lead Wonder from behind the keyboards, he led her to sit down on the bench next to him and serenaded her and the audience with two more songs.

But the amplification to the keyboard had been turned off and Wonder urged his sound man to be quick about correcting the problem. “Fix it up or you will get a blind beat down. Just kidding,” Wonder said as the audience howled.

Wonder also proudly brought two of his children who are students in the Atlanta University Center. Sophia Morris is a student at Spelman and Kwame is a student at Morehouse College.

Stevie Wonder proudly displays his Spelman t-shirt.

When Kwame told him that he didn't want to go to college,” Wonder said that idea wasn't even up for discussion. “Oh, you're going to college.”

“If you will have me, I would love to come back,” Wonder said to the audience who responded with a standing ovation.

The evening program capped off the institution's 130^th Founders Day activities. Early in the day, author/publisher Tina McElroy Ansa, C' 81 received an honorary Doctors of Fine Arts degree from her alma mater.

The program included a reading by True Colors Theatre founder and director Kenny Leon, actress/director Jasmine Guy, actress/singer Dawnn Lewis, and actress/producer A. J. Johnson C' 85. Singer Jennifer Holiday also performed two selections.

Atlanta Hawks defeats Boston Celtics

2011-04-05T20:15:00.000-04:00

Words: Stan Washington
Photos: Moses Robinson

If the Atlanta Hawks have a rivalry in this league it would be the Boston Celtics. It's a short-lived rivalry which started a few years back when the Hawks were engaged in a fierce first-round play-off battle with Boston. It was the year that Boston would go on and win it all.

The Atlanta Hawks have more so than not been the team that the premiere teams look to get back on track after a losing streak or to continue their winning streak. This was not to be the case for Boston or Orlando who lost before the Celtics came to town. The Hawks know that they can play and beat any team in this league, but they don't seem to believe it night in and night out.

The large contingent of Celtic fans went home disappointed after the most recent meeting between the two squads at Phillips Arena. The Hawks took a hard-fought (Nothing comes easy against Boston) 88-83.

Jamal Crawford and Joe Johnson lead the Hawks with 20 and 19 points, respectively. Al Horford tossed in 16. Boston's Paul Pierce lead all scorers with 25.

The Hawks went on the road for their next game against Houston and loss, 109 to 114.

The Hawks are playing San Antonio (4.5.11) at the Highlight Factory.

The remainder of this season's schedule is:

Friday 4/8 @ Indiana; Saturday 4/9 @ Washington; Monday 4/11 @ home against Miami and Wednesday 4/13 @ Charlotte.

www.atlantahawks.com
www.nba.com

Atlanta vs. Boston Photo Gallery by Moses Robinson

Rajon Rondo is a key factor in the Celtics offense. He had 13 points.

One of the toughest players in the NBA #20 Ray Allen had 11 points.

The backbone of the Celtics Paul Pierce led all scorers with 25 points.

Atlanta Falcons All-Pro receiver Roddy White takes in the action.

Ray Allen goes in for 2 against ZaZa Pachulia who had 15 points for the Hawks.

Boston Fans: "Aren't we supposed to beat the Hawks?"

Joe "Headband" Johnson pumped in 19 points.

V-103 FM personality Elle Duncan is not just another pretty face. She knows her football and basketball. Catch her on the Atlanta Falcons pre-game and post-game reports next season. She's knowledgeable.

Fellow radio personalities CJ and Elle Duncan.

The Atlanta Hawks Dancers.

Add Hawks center Al Horford's name to the NBA "Tough Men" list.

WWE Superstars and Children Healthcare of Atlanta

2011-04-03T19:15:00.001-04:00

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and WWE hosted (March 30) the 4^th annual WrestleMania Art Exhibit and Auction in the Fox Theatre's Egyptian Ballroom with the proceeds benefiting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. WWE Superstars Jerry “The King” Lawler, Booker T and John Morrison are among some of the WWE Superstars that have created unique pieces of art to be auctioned off. Jerry “The King” Lawler and Booker T will also produce a piece of art live on-site for the auction. Over 20 of WWE’s Superstars and Divas – including David Otunga, Vickie Guerrero, Evan Bourne and Alicia Fox walked the red carpet and gave autographs to fans.

Fox who hails from Jacksonville, Florida was especially excited about Wrestlemania because some of her people were driving up to witness their first wrestling event. Her interview along with Jerry Lawler's will be posted tomorrow.

Photos by Moses Robinson and Lanero Hill.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed welcomes the audience to the auction at the Fox Theatre. He announced on Wednesday that the Sunday event was already sold-out.

Divas Natalya and Beth.

WWE David Hart

John Morrison

Jerry Lawler clowns around with the reporter from FOX 5 Atlanta.

Diva Alicia Fox from Jacksonville, Florida.

Tyler Reks signs for the fans.

Superstar Ezekeil Jackson.We still don't know why he was frowning.

Villian Valdimir Koslov arrived with a "real superstar" on his arm.

The artwork of Jerry Lawler who studied art in college before graduating to the ring.

Jerry Lawler gets to work on the canvas. (Lanero Hill)

Booker T being Booker T. (Lanero Hill)

The WWE Superstars and Divas pose for a group shot. (Lanero Hill)

WWE Superstar John Cena and Make-A-Wish

2011-04-02T20:35:00.005-04:00

Wrestlemania Takes Over Atlanta

The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has returned to Atlanta with Wrestlemania, the biggest show of its year-round season. For over three decades the extravaganza has grown to the extent that now cities bid on the event because it draws fans from across the world.

Atlanta will also be host to its popular TV show Monday Night Raw and the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony.

But the weekend is more than elbow smashes, body slams and posing for photos with fans. The wrestlers also try and do as much charitable work it can while it is town. On Thursday night, some of WWE superstars (WWE no longer refers to its performers as wrestlers. The men are called "superstars" and women are called "divas.") participated in an auction of their artwork which benefited the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. The event was sponsored by Aflac and Curing Kids Cancer. Veteran Superstars Booker T and Jerry "The King" Lawler each did a painting at the event which was auctioned off.

Lawler who has been involved with professional wrestling for over 40 years as a wrestler and an announcer is an accomplished artist. He studied art in college but it was the call of the ring that won out as a career. This will be his first match at Wrestlemania.

(Note: See a separate report for those photos.)

On Saturday, one day before Wrestlemania, former WWE Champion John Cena was recognized for his 200th appearance for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America which has a longstanding partnership with WWE.

Cena downplayed the numbers (See video above) and said it was all about the children and their families who will receive VIP treatment at the event. Some of the children who came from all across the country and Canada received a special honor at the Circle of Champions program at the Georgia Aquarium. Cena passed out plaques and posed for photos. After the families enjoyed a special lunch.

John Cena presents Make A Wish Foundation of America President/CEO David A. Williams with a replica of the WWE Heavyweight Championship Belt. Cena will try and regain the title at Wrestlemania. (SW)

The Colored Museum - More Than Just Funny

2011-04-01T20:51:00.001-04:00

First produced in 1984, George C. Wolfe's “The Colored Museum” is a satirical theatrical look at some of the stereotypes which have evolved since blacks in American have evolved from African slaves to African Americans. Wolfe's play will not only leave you laughing, but will leave you thinking about the dual existence African Americans have utilized in order to survive in this country.

Considered a classic theater production, the play is currently being produced by Kenny Leon's True Colors Theatre Company at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in South DeKalb County.

The production which runs until April 17, is directed by Jasmine Guy, True Colors' new producing director. The talented six-member cast features Danielle Deadwyler, Je Nie Fleming, Amber Iman, Enoch King, Yakini Horne and Ali Amin Carter.

The production features vignettes of the different stereotypes that is found in this colored museum. Whether they are funny or thought-provoking they all are moving.

“Each exhibit has its own arch and its own pain and conflict,” said Guy during an interview on the last day of rehearsals before opening day. “Some are funny, but one of the major themes that George Wolfe has woven throughout the piece is the split of African American psyche in order to be here and to have left what we were.”

“He shows how that split has created a certain craziness in us. He calls it a cultural madness and you will see it a lot in the play. The characters are dealing with realities they have created themselves or only lives in their minds or they have decided to leave behind that so they can do this,” she added.

One example which clearly highlights that craziness is the exhibit called “Symbiosis” which features Enoch King as “The Man” and Danielle Deadwyler as “The Kid”. King plays a black man who has decided in order to be successful in the corporate world he must bury his “blackness”. So as he throws out his old Motown albums and other once cherished items from his past, “The Kid” that he once appears and tries to stop him. But the man resists and vows “from now only to be black on the weekend and holidays.”

For this young cast this was new mostly new ground for them. Some very vaguely familiar with the stereotypes or situations that Wolfe speaks of in his play, Guy pointed out.

“So there was research that had to be done, we have sit-downs we read books and we watched movies. I was throwing movies at them a lot because these stereotypes are from the 20s-70s. Most of them were old to me when I saw them,” she said.

The talented Enoch King mastering another role.

The homework paid off for the cast and it shows in their performances. They may not fully understand it but they get it. They commanded a rousing standing ovation from the opening night audience.

It almost seems unfair to point out any of the exhibits, but the ones which gather the most response from the audience were the aforementioned “Symbiosis”, “The Gospel According to Miss Roj” with Enoch King, “the Hairpiece” with Amber Iman, Yakini Horne and Danielle Deadwyler, “The Last Mama-on-the-Couch Play” a parody of “A Raisin of the Sun” featuring the entire cast, and “Lala's Opening” featuring Je Nie Fleming.

This is Guy's second directing job for True Colors, the first being “For Colored Girls” which featured Deadwyler and Horne. The two actors said it is a pleasure to work with Guy again since they all have grown professionally since performing in that production.

“It's been such a joy to work with someone who has done some of the things that I want to do,” Horne said. “And to see her work is like, so this is what I have to do in order to keep moving forward. So it's definitely been a blessing.”

“It's always good to see how you've grown and how your mentor and friend (Guy) has grown,” Deadwyler said. “To see how much more clear and crisp and precise she can be. To see how I've grown and how we've jelled even more, it makes you want to keep going and to do more stuff together. It's really great.”

When Guy directed “For Colored Girls” it was only her second time directing a production. Since that time she had added three more productions under belt including the massive production of “I Dream” which was at the Alliance Theatre. So is Guy a more “kinder and gentler” director than before?

“I am so much more mean than I've ever been. I couldn't believe it. I had to pray on it,” Guy said laughing. “What it is though, there are certain things that I know that I'm right about now. So now I'm emphatic. Before I was like, well I really want it this way, but maybe they are right and maybe I should see what it is. But now there are certain things that I absolutely know will make things stronger or better for the particular actor that I'm working with.”

Assignment Now rates "The Colored Museum" a BIG DON'T MISS.

www.truecolorstheatre.org

Atlanta Hawks down Orlando; Boston in town Friday

2011-03-31T21:45:00.000-04:00

The Orlando Magic's plans to get back on the winning track Wednesday in Atlanta against the Hawks failed to materialize as the home team took the victory in a close one, 85-82. The Hawks Josh Smith led all scorers with 26 points, while Joe Johnson pumped in 18 and Al Horford contributed 11. Jameer Nelson led the Magic with 20 points. Dwight Howard and Hedo Turkoglu each had 17 points.

But it's not over between the Hawks and the Magic. They will most likely find themselves facing one another again in the first round of the play-offs. Coming to town on Friday are the dreaded Boston Celtics for an 8 p.m. tip-off. (TV ESPN, radio 99X FM).

It was a mixed night for former Atlanta Hawk and broadcaster Dominique Wilkins received an honor from the Atlanta Sports Council for his contributions to basketball. But doing his post-game broadcast he was allegedly being heckled by a former NBA referee who claimed Wilkins owed him $12,500 for an unpaid suit.

According to the AJC.com, Rashan S Michel followed Wilkins after his broadcast and a security guard tried to restrain him when swung lose and hit the guard and Wilkins. But Michel is the one with the swollen left eye and he claims Wilkins hit him first. Michel was arrested and taken to Fulton County Jail and he was charged with two counts of simple battery. He bonded out early Thursday.

Court records show Michel filed a lawsuit last year against Wilkins in Fulton State Court for clothes Wilkins bought from his now-defunct men's store. Michel called in on the Frank and Wanda Show to explain his actions and claimed he just wanted to work out a payment plan with Wilkins. No court date has been set.

For video highlights go to: www.atlantahawks.com.

Photos by Moses Robinson.

Marvin Williams #24 goes in for 2 points.

Joe Johnson with the new headband drives for 2 of his 18 points.

Hawks center Al Horford pumped in 11 points.

Hedo Turkoglu #15 of the Orlando Magic fights over the ball against Zaza Pachulia #27 of the Atlanta Hawks

It was not a welcome home party for native Dwight Howard.

Lexus Honors Actor Hill Harper

2011-03-29T18:14:00.002-04:00

So how does a workaholic celebrates his birthday? Well, if it falls on a Monday - he works. What else?
The evening started at the fabulous Mason Murer Art Gallery in Buckhead at the Lexus Listening Lounge Event honoring actor/author Hill Harper for his work with America's youth through his foundation Manifest Your Destiny.org.

Harper received the luxury car company's Pursuit of Excellence Award. It was presented to him by Lexus Southeastern Vehicle Field Sales Manager Damon Rose. The evening also saw performances from Marsha Ambrosius and CJ Hilton.

All of the outside shots were taken by AN Chief Photographer Moses Robinson. I took those of the presentation inside. - Stan Washington

Actor/author Hill Harper arriving on the red carpet at the Lexus Lounge Event in Atlanta.

(L-R) Aaron Walton, Dyana Williams, actor Hill Harper, Ayiko Broyard and Damon Rose attend the Lexus listening lounge at Mason Murer Fine Art Museum on March 28, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Hill Harper being interviewed by Rolling Out.com.

Recording Artist Marsha Ambrosius formerly of the duo Floetry.

(L-R) Aaron Walton, Marsha Ambrosius, actor Hill Harper, Dyana Williams, CJ Hilton and Ayiko Broyard.

Marsha Ambrosius meets recording legend Jeane Carne.

Recording CJ Hilton performs.

Entrepreneur Peter Thomas, husband of Real Housewife of Atlanta Cynthia Bailey.

NBA Player Etan Thomas

Boutique owner Tucci Andrea and AN Editor Stan Washington.

Lexus rep. Damon Rose tells why Hill Harper is deserving of this award. (SW)

Hill Harper accepts the Pursuit of Excellence Award. (SW)

Lexus rep Damon Rose poses with honoree Hill Harper. (SW)

2011 Atlanta Auto Show - Greg Morrison.wmv

2011-03-24T21:58:00.000-04:00