All Entries in the "The Connect" Category

2013 Marks 2nd Year for A3C Film Festival; Now Accepting Film Submissions

For several years now, STACKS Magazine has provided coverage of the annual hip hop festival held here in Atlanta. Mostly known for giving underground artists a platform to showcase their talents, A3C’s music festival garners the patronage of thousands of hip hop heads and lovers of the culture. Last year, the people over at A3C decided to stretch their creative juices to include a coinciding film festival. Well, in 2013, they will continue the mission by selecting several short-films to be premiered during the festival.

The mission of the A3C Film Festival is to use film to unite artists and fans of Hip Hop, Youth, Street and Urban Culture, transform the way audiences see the world, and support the vision of independent artists.

In case you are a independent filmmaker and want to the opportunity to have your short-film viewed by thousands of culture lovers, A3C is now accepting film submissions.  There will be five categories in which you can submit. Each category has a required time frame and general rules to abide by.  ALL submissions must encompass various aspects of Hip Hop, Youth, Street and Urban Culture – in relation to Style, Music, Politics, Education, Family, and/or Religion.

Categories

Narrative Feature  – 60 minutes and over

Documentary Feature – 60 minutes and over

Narrative Short – under 60 minutes

Documentary Short – under 60 minutes

Music Video – under 20 minutes

The A3C Film Festival will jump off October 2 – 6 at 7 Stages in Little 5 Points.  Final film submissions are due by September 6.  To find the general rules and link to submit your film projects, click on this link – -> A3C Film Festival.

Event Recap: Respect The Grind Talent Showcase @ Major League Bar [Photos + Video]

On November 28, STACKS Magazine had the pleasure to host its first talent showcase. The Respect The Grind Talent Showcase featured great performances by several underground artists. The showcase, hosted by funny man Henry Welch, was created to give underground artists (i.e. rappers, spoken word, musicians, singers) the opportunity to show their talents in front of STACKS Magazine supporters.  Each performer also was given the chance to have their performance video taped and participate in on-the-spot interviews.  Thus, giving each artists a platform to have their talents seen via our online website and social media outlets.

Here are a few pics from the event…

Video Recap:

Special thanks to all of the artists who participated:  Midnight Black, RedBoy, Trey, Snappa R.E.D., Starr Jamezz, Yung Streetz, Tikie B, DoughBoy, Bravo, and JB Kool. Also, we’d like to thank Da B.R.O.A.D.S sisterhood organization for their time and committment and KC and the staff at Major League Bar & Grill. We appreciate your assistance with the event.

Thanks to all of the supporters who showed up. Please stay tuned for future events in 2013.  To check out all of the pictures from the showcase, go to our Facebook page !! Follow us on Twitter @ STACKSMag !

Kevin Hart & Ice Cube’s ‘Ride Along’ Flick Invades Atlanta + Casting Call Info

Two of Hollywood’s favorite men, Ice Cube and Kevin Hart, are currently filming the upcoming movie Ride Along.  With Atlanta fastly becoming the “Hollywood” of the South, it’s not strange to see production crews on the streets at least once a month.  Therefore, it wasn’t strange that word has spread that Ride Along has begun filming in various locations around the city.

Although Ride Along was originallly owned by New Line, Universal Studios purchased the rights to the script and is in full production mode.  In the film, Kevin Hart plays the role of an elementary school teacher who is to be married soon. But, his fiance’s cop brother (played by Ice Cube) trys his best to scare Kevin off by dragging him along for a very fearful ride in his patrol car.

Ride Along is expected to be released during MLK Day weekend in 2014.

If you are interested in being an extra in the film, send a headshot or photo to ridealongextras@gmail.com!

Photo Source

Event: Atlanta Pitch Summit 2012, Nov. 1-3: Learn How To Pitch Your TV/Film Ideas to Top Industry Players

On November 1 – 3, 2012, the Georgia Tech Research Institute will be the host location for a great opportunity. The 2nd annual Atlanta Pitch Summit is a three day conference that focuses on helping aspiring television show owners learn how to successfully sell their ideas to major networks. To help folks on their television journey, guest speakers will include Tracey Edmonds (Award Winning Filmmaker) and Mona Scott-Young (Creator of Love & Hip Hop).  Major networks that will be in attendance includes BET, Aspire TV, GMC, Our Stories Films, Bobb Cat Films, Monami Entertainment, Greendoor Pictures, Trium Entertainment, and many more.

Reality shows are a big deal and major money maker for primetime and cable networks these days. If you’ve been sitting at home with the greatest idea for the next big hit show, here’s your opportunity to learn from industry players and even pitch your ideas! In case you are wondering what the panel conversations will discuss, here’s more details about the summit:

Exclusive Q & A with Mona Scott-Young (Creator & EP of Love & Hip Hop)

Exclusive Q & A Reality Check w/ Mona Scott-Young. When you think that reality TV has gone way too far, Mona Scott-Young -Creator and Executive Producer of Vh1′s Love and Hip Hop sits in the Hot Seat and shares her expertise on how she managed to have the #1 most watched show with VH1/Viacom.

Women in Entertainment-Panel

Women in Entertainment – featuring Tracey Edmonds- CEO Edmonds Entertainment & Our Stories Films, Connie Orlando- VP of Original Programming (BET), Tracy Christian, Agent (TCA Jed Root), Shay Griffin-CEO of The Chez Group, Denene Millner- Author (THINK LIKE A MAN)

Greenlight Your Pitch for Television-Panel

What are the secrets to pitching? What is the secret to getting your television show greenlit? Find out the TV Bible rules and the masterplan to creating pitches that sell. Greenlight Your Pitch w/ Tina Thompson, Dir of Prgm- ASPIRE TV, Joe Swift- 7 Stories Up, Programming-BET Network , Anthony Samadani, GC w/Trium Entertainment (The Biggest Loser)

Music Pitch: Promotions, Score & Licensing for Distribution – Panel

Calling all musical artists! This is your chance to learn the right way to push your record, track or jingle in a different direction than the regular mixtape. This panel will share how to release your music for Film & TV. Panel Guests: Traci Adams- VP of Epic Records, Melissa Love- Licensing Expert, French Spencer-Producer, Do It All-Lords of the Underground (artist), Jason Geter-CEO of Grand Hustle.

Comedy Focus-Panel

Calling all Aspiring Comedians who want to learn how Comedians Transition from On Stage to On Screen w/Tommy Ford (Martin)

Acting Workshop

Inspiring the person inside of the Actor with Celebrity Acting Coach/Casting Director Tracey Moore

The Benefits of Marketing, P & A (Print & Advertising) for Distribution – Panel

P & A (Print & Advertising) for Distribution w/ Angela Cannon, GMC-VP of Marketing, Mitzi Miller, JET Magazine

-Editor-in Chief, April Love-Public Relations, Tracey Walker – Online Marketing Expert, Nick F. Nelson, Liquid Soul Media – Chief Marketing Officer.

Writer’s Workshop

Structure of Dialogue w/ Colin Costello (www.colincostello.com)

Using Other People’s Money w/Shannon Nash – Panel

Financing a Film or TV show can be challenging for the producer and filled with traps for the unwary. It’s like a catch-22. The producer has the script, treatment, breakdown, schedule, budget, and a business plan. Now the producer just needs talent. But the talent won’t come on board without the financing in place. Given that most independent film producers do not want to (or can’t) use their personal funds to finance the project, the producer is left with one solution – Use other people’s money. Shannon Nash, ESQ., Michelle L. Davis, ESQ., Paul Garnes, Producer This panel will explore all the potential perils, pitfalls and proper ways to use other people’s money, including: SEC and state law security compliance and potential violations, using debt or agreements that look like debt (including high interest rates that may be illegal), crowdsourcing sites like Kickstarter and state and local tax credits and tax incentives such as the Invest Georgia Exemption for projects under $1million. The panel will also look at all the compliance issues that exist for many years after taking other people’s money such as: investor reports and communications, copies of tax returns to investors (Schedule K-1s for most investors), paying back lenders and filing with state and local agencies.

To register for the event, go to www.atlantapitchsummit.com.

A3C Hip Hop Festival Returns To ATL, Oct 11-13…Up To 300 Artists Will Perform

Who’s ready for some real hip hop?!!  The annual A3C Hip Hop Festival is set to return to Atlanta on Oct 11-13. The annual music showcase features well-known and underground artists from across the U.S.. This year the A3C team has stepped it up by featuring approximately 300 artists! Grouped up by regions and/or sponsors, this years talent is sure to have the city rocking.

Today is the last day to purchase 3-day passes for $33 to see newly announced artists like Paul Wall, Ab-Soul, 9th Wonder, Freeway, Devin the Dude and more at Atlanta’s annual A3C Hip Hop Festival October 11-13, 2012.

 

In addition to headliner Twista, King Louie, GLC and Mikkey Halsted will represent the Midwest in the Taste of Chicago showcase presented by Xtreme Promo and Fake Shore Drive. Taste of Chicago also features YP, Mush Millions, Fresh, Squart and others.

 

Continuing to showcase regional Hip Hop sounds, A3C’s Texas showcase presented by Pushamania includes Paul Wall, Killa Kyleon, A.Dd+, The Niceguys, League of Extraordinary Gz, Doughbeezy, Kydd and Worldwide.

 

Long time A3C Partner, Fadia Kader returns to the festival with Perfect Attendance presented by LiveMixtapes all three nights at Little Five Point’s Five Spot. Saturday night, hosted by Dirty Glove Bastards, features Devin The Dude, Don Trip, Starlito, Young Scooter, SL Jones, Cory Mo, OG Ron C and DJ Burn One. Thursday Night will be hosted by GoodMusicAllDay and Friday will be hosted by The Smoking Section with artists still to be announced for both evenings.

 

A3C alumnus 9th Wonder also returns with his independent label Jamla Records and performances from artists Big Remo, Actual Proof, Rapsody and others.

 

Creative Revolution Union (CRUx) and EarMilk join forces to present Right Brain headlined by Ab-Soul. Sponsored by Rocksmith Clothing, the Right Brain showcase also features Ducko McFli, FKi, Zip, Kenney and Mach Five.

 

A3C is still accepting artists’ submissions through ReverbNation and Sonicbids until August 31. A3C staff listen to every submission and are looking for talented artists from across the country who can bring something unique to the festival. All artists that submit, regardless of selection, receive a 3-day festival pass through Sonicbids or a code to purchase discounted tickets through ReverbNation.

 

Tech N9ne, Freeway, Gunplay, CunninLynguists and Hopsin are just a few of other artists confirmed to perform at the 2012 event in addition to a special appearance by Ghet-O-Vision/Shady recording artist Yelawolf. For a complete list of 2012 performing artists visit www.a3cfestival.com/artists.

The A3C has not only become the largest Hip Hop festival in the southeastern United States, but is the premier gathering place for MCs, DJs and producers that create Hip Hop music as well as participants and fans of the culture. In addition to more than 200 live performances and showcases, the A3C Hip Hop Festival features turntable, emcee, producer and breakdance competitions as well as educational and community programming including panel discussions and workshops.

Specific showcase, panel, artists and event updates will continue to be announced through the A3C website through the start of the festival on October 11, 2012.

[Related Post:  10 Things I Learned From The A3C Festival]

Source:  A3C

Clark Atlanta Univ. To Offer ‘Michael Jackson’ Course For Students

The last time we’ve heard of college curriculum being based on an African-American entertainer was for Tupac Shakur.  Well, recent news reports state that the “King of Pop” Michael Jackson will soon be the study material for Clark Atlanta University students.

The class called “Michael Jackson: The Business of Music” will give students the opportunity to study Jackson’s successful tenure in the entertainment world.  The class will cover Jackson’s dealings with music and brand copyrights, trademarks, and licenses.  Becoming one the businesses most profitable icons, Jackson built an empire that was able to capitalize off his record deals, tours, and merchandising. In addition, students will learn Jackson’s tactics when negotiating multi-million dollar deals in television, real estate, film, and music publishing.

If you are wondering who will be teach the course, James Walker, a veteran entertainment attorney.  Walker knows the industry inside and out. He’s had the opportunity to represent several high-profile entertainers like Dr. Bobby Jones, Jamie Foxx, Dr. Shirley Ceasar, Freddie Jackson, Donald Lawrence, and others.  Walker, also a Yale and Howard University alum, is the author of a bestselling book ” The Business of Urban Music”.

“The goal is to help students who have an interest or future desire to work in the entertainment industry whether as artist, attorney, business manager, accountant or other,” says Walker. “I’ve taught classes at Yukon University, Boston College and other places covering a lot of topics related to entertainment and the legal profession, but this course allows me to really provide my students with a comprehensive understanding of the music industry and the business mechanics involved.”

Sounds like this will be a very educational course for music majors.   It’s impressive that Michael Jackson is still changing lives even in the afterlife.  We miss you Michael…and happy 54th birthday!

Source: Eurweb

7th Annual LudaDay Weekend + A Message From Ludacris

Ludacris, Disturbing Tha Peace Records, Ebony Son Management, and The Ludacris Foundation, are partnering with Soul by Ludacris Headphones to present The 7th Annual LudaDay Weekend in Atlanta, GA. The featured events kick-off Thursday with the ‘Welcome to Atlanta Dinner’ and the rest of the weekend’s fun is all about giving back to the community.

With a host of celebrities and key influencers from here and there lending their time and talents to the festivites the support for community initiatives and activites should be phenomenal. Some this year’s charities Luda has committed to highlighting include Frank Ski Kids Foundation, Inc, Ryan Cameron Foundation, Keshia Knight Pulliam’s Kamp Kizzy, Antoine “Big Boi” Patton’s Big Kidz Foundation, Getschooled.org, and the Boys & Girls Club of Atlanta.

Check out the itenirary for this weekend’s scheduled events plus a special message from Ludacris….

The 7th Annual LudaDay Weekend Event Schedule

Thursday, August 30th

Welcome to Atlanta Dinner | Private Location

Friday, August 31st

Luda Salutes the DJ & Media Appreciation | Private Location

Saturday, September 1st

Luda & Friends College Campus Takeover | 2PM-6PM| Clark Atlanta University Universaity Student Center Fair Street Atlanta, GA 30314

LudaDay Party | 3PM-Until | Frank Ski’s 2110 Peachtree Road Atlanta, GA

Sunday, September 2nd

Ludacris (Team Luda) vs. Kevin Hart (Team Hart) Celebrity Basketball Game | Tip-off at 4PM| Morehouse College Forbes Arena 833 Fair St. Atlanta, GA 30314

Monday, September 3rd

Splash Waterfalls 2012 The World Famous Private Mansion Pool Party | Private Location

Jay-Z’s “Made In America” Fest Set To Takeover Philly On Labor Day Weekend

If you live in Philadelphia or the surrounding cities/states, you may be interested in attending one of the hottest music festivals this year. Set to jump off on Labor Day weekend, Jay-Z’s “Made In America” two-day concert is expected to bring out over 100,000 people to downtown Philly.  The concert will feature Drake, Skrillex, AfroJack, Chris Connell, Run DMC, Jill Scott, and Pearl Jam.

During the two-day concert, performances will run from 2pm to 11pm. Over thirty acts will perform on three stages, of which will be located near the Museum of Arts (spot where the movie “Rocky” was filmed).  In case you are wondering how much it costs to attend, two-day passes are currently $135.  One-day passes are $75.  VIP and travel packages range from $350 to $2,200.  The closer it gets to Sep 1 prices are expected to increase.

For more information about the” Made In America” festival, go to www.madeinamericafest.com.

Source: AP

Job Alert: Kandi’s ‘Bedroom Kandi’ are Looking for Consultants

Want to get in at the beginning of what may soon become as big as Avon or Mary Kay?  Well, here is an opportunity to join Team Kandi, promote her products, and make big bucks.

Kandi Burruss’s “Bedroom Kandi” sex toy line of products will soon expand into the boutique party area.  BK are searching for dynamic individuals who will act as consultants that will host Bedroom Kandi Boutique Parties.  Consultants throughout the U.S. will sell toys and other items such lingerie, massage oils, and bath/body oils. 

BK is currently looking to choose their core team of consultants.   If you’d like to be considered for this opportunity, send in your resume, a cover letter expressing why you would be a great fit, and a photograph to:

Bedroom Kandi

45 Lafayette Road #332

North Hampton, N.H. 03862

Good luck!

Event Recap: DJ Traci Steele’s 2nd Annual “Pretty Girls Rock: Art, Music, and Fashion”

DJ Traci Steele, of Hot 107.9FM, hosted her 2nd annual Pretty Girls Rock: Art, Music, and Fashion event last night. Over 500 people attended the event, held at Justin’s restaurant in Atlanta, to support Traci and help benefit The Love Offering Foundation.

This year, Traci Steele was accompanied by several notable women in Atlanta:  Ebony Steele (of the Rickey Smiley Morning Show), Rashan Ali (former radio personality and correspondent on NBA TV), and Nina Brown (radio producer).  The women collaboratively shined the spotlight on other women who are making their marks in the field of art, music, and fashion.  Athletes, fashion designers, artists, music industry artists, and others all were in attendance to show support.

L to R: Rashan Ali, Traci Steele, and Nina Brown

The evening was not only filled with fellowship and plenty of networking. But, there were also performances by D. Woods (formerly of Danity Kane) and Latocha Scott (of Xscape), Mika Means.  Although, I wasn’t able to stay for the performances, I hear that each of the ladies are currently working on independant projects. So I will definitely be checking for the new music in the future.  In addition to the music, art was represented by abstract paintings. Also, several fashion designers were there showcasing their newest creations.

Honestly, my main focus was to finally catch up with DJ Traci Steele.  Luckily, I was able to sift through the crowd and catch up with her to find out the purpose behind the Pretty Girls Rock event.

This is the 2^nd annual Pretty Girls Rock: Art, Music, and Fashion. It’s all about women, women, women. Women fashion designers, female DJs, female artists, female everything. I want women to come out and support each other and what we do in this art. If you have a talent, you come out and support each other. Women need to uplift each other and stop bringing each other down. And that’s why I did this.

Not being an avid radio listener, I also asked Traci when can people catch her on the air.

On the weekends, Saturday and Sunday, Hot 107.9FM. Log on to www.tracisteele.com to find out where I am.

If you weren’t there last night, you missed out on a great event.  For women to celebrate other women is spectacular. Hopefully, more events such as this will occur in the future.

Get Connected: Black Enterprise Entrepreneur Conference + Expo (May 23-26)

Event:   Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference & Expo – Hosted by Nationwide

Dates:  May 23 – 26, 2012

Where:  Hilton-Chicago, Chicago, Illinois

 
Purpose:     The country’s premier business conference and networking event for African American entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and professionals, it is the only venue where leaders of the nation’s largest black-owned businesses gather at one place, one time, and with one purpose.

For more information regarding the Entrepreneurs Conference & Expo, check out http://www.blackenterprise.com/events/entrepreneurs-conference/ .

March Madness for Job Seekers

The job market is seemingly making a turn around.  This is great news.  The latest is a list of 15 companies that are hiring this month posted by Careerbuilder writer Kaitlin Madden.

1. American National Insurance
Number of openings: 200
Sample job titles: Insurance sales manager, claims representative, senior financial analyst, litigation coordinator
Location: Nationwide

2. BHP Billiton
Number of openings: 100+
Sample job titles: Financial analyst, geologist, petroleum engineers
Location: Ark., La., Texas

3. Carmax
Number of openings: 240+
Sample job titles: Sales consultant, retail manager — buyer, retail sales manager, operations support
Location: Calif., Fla., Ga., Ill., Md., N.C., Ohio, Texas, Va.

4. General Mills
5. Integra Telecom
6. ITT Exelis (Mission Systems)
7. The Manitowoc Company, Inc. 
8. MetLife
9. Nielsen
10. Orkin

Full listing here.

Event: P. Sherrod & Co’s Purse Purge Sale & Charity Event

P. Sherrod & Co., in conjuction with Dress For Success.org and The Beehive Atlanta, will be having a purse purge event, Saturday, January 14, 2012 from 12noon to 5pm. The event will collect new and slightly used purses and donate them to Dress For Success organization. The purses will help underpriviliged women get styled properly in professional attire suited for the workforce.

PURGE and PROSPER… Receive 25% OFF all P. Sherrod & Co purses and wallets when you donate a gently used purse or wallet to charity!

**purchase of a P. Sherrod & Co. bag/wallet is not required**

Source

Event: Riejunio Fashion Happy Hour

Jean lovers, fashionistas and bargain shoppers alike, here’s an event you don’t want to miss!

     Next week, the Riejunio Fashion Happy Hour is going down at Loca Luna. This shopping event will feature designer jeans at an unbelievable discounted price. Brands for sale include Riejunio, Seven, and Rock and Republic just to name a few with prices ranging $42-$96. We suggest you get there early because the deals are only good while supplies last! Oh and plus if you’re an early bird, you can count yourself in for complimentary Sangria! Be sure to save the date…Thursday, November 17^th * 6:30pm-8:30pm @ Loca Luna

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For more info on Riejunio, you can check out our interview of the man behind the plan here. Also be sure to join Riejunio on Facebook @ Riejunio Jeans & Riejunio Premium Apparel

Who’s Hiring Minorities? + Top 50 Diversity Companies

The recession and the apparent lack of jobs here in the U.S. has taken a major toll on minorities.  It seems as though after the economy hit hard times, and after jobs were outsourced to India, many corporations were left no choice but to layoff its employees. A lot of those employees were older men and women, at or below satisfactory performers, and African-Americans or other minorities. Despite President Obama’s plea for corporations to stop outsourcing and begin hiring local citizens again, the unemployment rate continues to increase.  So what is it? Why won’t corporations hire?

     One theory is that corporate big wigs have figured out that the same amount of work can be produced with less people. After the layoffs, persons still employed are left to pick up the slack and double up on their workload.  They are required to do more work without receiving an increase in pay (or promotion).  If this current system is working, why change it? I’m sure this is the mindset of most corporations at this time. But, what is being overlooked is that minorities are not given the opportunity to work again. This is evident, for instance, with the housing downfall. The number of foreclosures in minority communities has tripled in the last few years.  So, in order to combat this epidemic before it gets way out of hand, maybe minorities need to change their strategy when job searching.

     According to the Black EOE Journal, there are currently 1.5 million African-Americans over the age of 25 that have an advanced degree (Masters, PH. D, etc). So this proves that African-Americans are indeed qualified to do the job.  Therefore, job seekers should begin focusing in on those companies that are at the top of their league when it comes to diversity.  

      The Black EOE Journal conducted their annual review of Fortune 1000 companies and picked the following as having the best when it comes to diversity programs.  Check out the list:

Best of the Best Employers: Top 50 Diversity Employers

Abbott Laboratories

Accenture

American Express Company
Army and Air Force Exchange Service
AT&T, Inc.
Automatic Data Processing
Bank of America Corporation
Coca-Cola Company, The
Colgate-Palmolive Company
Cox Communications, Inc.
CSX Corporation
Cummins, Inc.
Dell Inc.
Deloitte & Touche L.L.P.
Diageo North America, Inc.
Eli Lilly and Company
Ernst & Young LLP
Freddie Mac
General Mills, Inc.
Health Care Service Corp.
International Business Machines Corporation (IBM)
J.C. Penney Corporation, Inc.
Johnson & Johnson
Kaiser Permanente
KPMG
Kraft Foods, Inc.
Lenovo
Liberty Tax Service
Marriott International, Inc.
MasterCard Incorporated
McDonald’s USA
Merck & Co., Inc.
MGM Resorts International
Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated.
Northrop Grumman Corporation
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation
PBSJ Corporation, The (an Atkins Company)
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Procter & Gamble Company, The
Prudential Financial, Inc.
SC Johnson & Co
Sodexo, Inc.
State Farm Insurance
Time Warner
Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
US Airways
Verizon Communications Inc.
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
WellPoint, Inc.
Wells Fargo & Company

     Hopefully, this list can be a start to helping some people find employment. We are not guaranteeing that these companies will hire. But at least, these companies will give each applicant a fair shot during the application process.

2011 ATLFF Screenplay Competition

On a mission to discover high quality screen plays, the Atlanta Film Festival group is sponsoring a script competition for all amatuer screenplay writers.

The Atlanta Film Festival has a 4 decade long history of discovering and nurturing new filmmaking talent, including showing early works by Robert Rodriguez, Spike Lee, and Victor Nunez. The Atlanta Film Festival Screenplay Competition offers the winners the opportunity to workshop their script with industry professionals at a weekend retreat. Past Mentors have included Kent Osborne (HANNAH TAKES THE STAIRS, SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS), Morgan J. Freeman (HURRICANE), Anne Hubbell (THANKSGIVING), Carly Hugo (PETER AND VANDY, HOT COFFEE), Stephen Israel (SWIMMING WITH SHARKS), J.T. Petty (THE BURROWERS, SPLINTER CELL: CHAOS THEORY), Joel Zwick (MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING) Amy Dotson (Producer & Managing Director for IFP NY), and Rob Long (CHEERS, GEORGE & LEO). The retreat brings the writers of the winning screenplays together not only with established writers, but also with producers and directors who can provide a different perspective on the script and advice on how to move forward towards getting the project produced.

The contest will give writers the opportunity to attend a 3-day workshop (December 9-11, 2011). The retreat will bring professional writers, filmmakers, and the contest winners together in order to further develop and refine the chosen screenplays.

The deadline to submit your application is September 19, 2011. To enter the contest, you must provide the following:

• 60 to 140 page screenplay, standard screenplay format, 12-point courier font
• Submit ONE hard copy of screenplay, or electronic copy (in PDF and/or Word file); copyrighting your work before submittal is highly suggested
• Must be available for phone interview during the week of October 17

For more information regarding the competition, go to www.atlantafilmfestival.com. Good luck!

Mary J Blige, Ruby Dee Receives McDonalds 365Black Awards

L to R: 2011 McDonald’s 365Black Awards Honorees; civil rights “Freedom Rider” and McDonald’s owner/operator Henry “Hank” Thomas, Radio One network founder Cathy Hughes, multi-platinum recording artist Mary J. Blige, legendary Broadway actress Ruby Dee and NAACP's president & CEO Benjamin Jealous

McDonald’s 365Black Awards recognizes African-American legends whose committment to the community is seen through their lives and life-works.  This years reception took place during the Essence Music Festival weekend in New Orleans. The honorees included Mary J. Blige, Ruby Dee, Cathy Hughes, Benjamin Jealous, and Henry “Hank” Thomas.

“Our 365Black Awards honorees define true leadership in our community, from Ruby Dee’s trail blazing career as an actress to the civil rights crusades led by Hank Thomas; from the media empire created by Cathy Hughes to the leadership that Benjamin Jealous brings to the NAACP, our honorees inspire all Americans to give back in some unique way,” said Neil Golden, chief marketing officer, McDonald’s USA.

As an honoree, Mary J. Blige’s FFAWN Foundation received a $40,000 check for her organization’s committment and investment into the lives of young women.

L to R: McDonald’s USA’s Robert Jackson (2nd right) presents check for $40,000 to Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute for FFAWN with National Black McDonald’s Operators Association (NBMOA) Chair and CEO Roland Parrish and McDonald’s owner/operator Mary Gillis.

For more information on the McDonald’s 365Black program and its past awardees, please visit www.mcdonalds.com/365black.

Source

Event: ONE MusicFest…Aug. 27, 2011

via press release:

The Mayor’s Office of the city of Atlanta welcomes the second annual ONE MusicFest. As seen on CNN, Vibe Magazine, the Atlanta Journal Constitution and more, the ONE Music Fest indoor/ outdoor concert experience will take place in over 200,000 square feet of green space at the beautiful Park Tavern concert space. The 2010 inaugural ONE MUSICFEST was headlined by internationally acclaimed artists such as Common, De La Soul, Goapele, the Love Language, DJ Mick Boogie and a genre cornucopia of grassroot talent earning the festival organizers the city of Atlanta’s “Phoenix Award” for their efforts in captivaing the city’s music culture with over 3,000 people from all walks of life and mastering the mission of unity through music with performances ranging from alternative rock to hip hop all under one roof .This year’s festival format and musical experience will include an array of activities, performances, interactive and artistic experiences while also infusing the much anticipated Crab & Shrimp Festival. Tickets for the ONE MusicFest taking place on Saturday, August 27, 2011, can be purchased at select retailers and online at http://www.onemusicfest.com/tickets/

     Emerging as one of the Summer’s most anticipated festival concert series in the Atlanta market with aggressive plans to penetrate additional markets on a national level, ONE MusicFest brings in the talents of nationally acclaimed artists The Pharcyde (alternative hip-hop group, best known for hits, “Passin Me By,” “Runnin,” and “Drop”, Anthony David (Grammy Nominated artist, headliner for BET Music Matters concert series), Foreign Exchange (Grammy nominated duo) with headlining acts to soon be released incorporating a host of local flavor. Infusing artists and bands that will unify spectators through the universal language of sound, ONE MusicFest fills a necessary void in the city’s music experience. Event organizers and visionary team, Sol Fusion, has formed a uniquely diverse alliance to produce the second annual ONE MusicFest, with the intention of unification through music.

“There is a lack of representation for soul, progressive hip-hop, alternative and rock, represented under one roof, in the format of music festivals in Atlanta. We have noticed that while there are many pockets of individuals that share taste in the same music, rarely do you see them share in this together. ONE MUSICFEST was created with the idea of ‘music as the universal language.Over time we aim to grow this fest into a phenomenon and bring together different sectors of individuals through a unique music platform.”, states J Carter, Sol -Fusion Founder and ONE MusicFest Producer.

     With the diverse musical and cultural appetites within a city rich in a history of great musical tradition, ONE MusicFest pledges to provide an environment that truly caters to the genre bending palette. “Miller Lite is more than excited to be a part of this years ONE MusicFest as it aligns with our goal of unity through music. We welcome the opportunity to take part in what is sure to be a memorable experience for all in attendance.”, states Steve Canal (MillerCoors). For more information visit www.OneMusicFest.com and join the conversation @ONEMusicFest & facebook.com/OneMusicFest.

Source:  Tre’von Williams/The Garner Circle PR

Event: Fashionable Atlanta

Presenting…. “Fashionable Atlanta”!  New York, Paris and LA are fashion capitals and known for the hottest fashions, but Atlanta is no stepchild.  Yes, Atlanta is known for being a melting pot of success.  Whether it’s business, music, movies, tv or just our culture, Atlanta has earned its place, having a presence on TV, in magazines, radio and the big screen.  With all this comes fashion and some of the best of the best are right here in your back yard.  The bloggers have it all y’all!  So, if fashion is your passion you do not want to miss this opportunity to hobnob with fashion enthusiasts alike.  This fashionably fabulous event will be held at Atlanta’s very own “one stop glam shop” formally known as Envy Boutique. Here’s what founder, Eboni of the Fashionista Next Door  had to say…

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Fashionable Atlanta

 *Fashionable Atlanta* is a community of Atlanta based independent fashion and beauty bloggers and fashion professionals. When I founded *Fashionable Atlanta*, I was new to the city and eager to meet other *ATLiens* with my same passion for fashion!  Since then, I have had the pleasure of enjoying Atlanta’s fabulous fashion scene with some of Atlanta’s most stylish ladies! I am so looking forward to meeting more of Atlanta’s fabulous blogger community at our first meet-up.

About the boutique

In addition to shopping, they have a full service salon and makeup bar! You can even host a “Pretty Party” at Envy which includes wardrobe styling, hair, makeup and a photo shoot! I just love their whole concept, and I’m thrilled that we are going to have our event there.

EVENT DETAILS

Date: July 23, 2011
Time: 7pm – 10pm
Location: Envy Boutique, 1143 Euclid Ave Ne, Atlanta, GA (Little 5 Points)
Price: $15

*The event will include:*
Shopping, Beauty Bar, Photo Suite, Raffles & Door Prizes, Cocktails and Hors D’eouvres

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To register for the 1^st Annual Fashionable Atlanta Blogger Meetup, click here to get your tickets via EventBrite. Tickets are available through July 15.

College Bound: 2011 Minority Scholarships

Fisk University Graduates

During their junior and senior years, students begin to feel the stress of seeking financial aid for college. Students who have their mind set on attending a four-year university or junior college oftentimes turn to their parents for financial assistance. But as we all know, the times in which parents squared away a savings account in anticipation of their child graduating from highschool…are long gone.  Those savings are now being used on things such as past due bills, second mortgages, and everything else under the sun families spend money on just to stay afloat. But each year, luckily, other financial assistance opportunites presents themselves in forms of grants and scholarships. So don’t fret! There are many organizations offering minority scholarships to well deserving students. Of course, there are certain guidelines or requirements those that apply have to follow. To help minority students and their parents find funding, STACKS Magazine have gathered a some great scholarship opportunities. Check hem out below. 

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Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund  - Scholarships are merit based; however, applicants must have a financial need to qualify; must re-apply annually for renewal; restricted for payment of tuition, on campus room and board, books and fees; awards average $2,200 per student per semester; awards are not paid directly to students, but to the institution.

United Negro College Fund – In addition to the UNCF general scholarship, the website also lists several other affiliate scholarship programs for students to apply for.

Coca-Cola Scholars Program – Students must carry a 3.0 GPA at the end of their junior year; applications are only accepted during August 1 – October 31 of the senior year; 50 students are then designated as National Scholars and receive awards of $20,000 for college; 200 students are designated as Regional Scholars and receive awards of $10,000 for college. 

State Farm Insurance Scholarship Program – Grants offered to students in the hispanic community.

Sallie Mae Grants and Scholarships -  Website houses scholarship award database containing 3 million scholarship leads; offers new Sallie Mae Scholarship Search Facebook application.

KFC Colonel’s Scholars Program – Eligible students can earn up to $20, 000 towards college; open registration for 2011 is closed, but 2012 applications can be filed starting December 1, 2011.

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Students this is just a short list to get you started in your quest. You can check your local library, school guidance counselor, or the internet to find out about more scholarship opportunities.  If you have access to the web, check out this list of 100+ programs! But before you apply for anything, make sure to talk it over with your parents or counselor, conduct a thorough review of all the programs out there and pick the ones you have the best chance at being awarded. And don’t forget to KEEP YOUR GRADES UP!

Photo Credit: NewsOne

Tweet Us and Win a $50 Gas Card!

To all of our readers, here’s your chance to WIN A FREE GIVEAWAY!
STACKS Magazine is holding a giveaway to show appreciation to all of our supporters!

The key to winning this giveaway is to help us gain new followers. Gas prices are HIGH and we know that you may close to E. So here’s your chance to win some FREE gas money and ease the pain at the pump. Whomever can send us  50 or more new followers in ONE WEEK is the winner!

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The rules of this contest are as follows:

1. Minimum of 50 followers to be considered.  The person who has sent us the most within the allotted time is the WINNER! 

2. To enter: Follow us on twitter! @STACKSMag

 3. Retweet this to your friends/followers on Twitter:  ”FOLLOW @ STACKSMag & Retweet for a chance to win their Twitter “$50 GAS CARD” Giveaway! www.stacksmag.net”

4. Each new follower MUST “mention”, “retweet”, or “DM” us on Twitter and say the name of the person that sent them. [Ex: @kimbee - Hey @STACKSMag @unrulyone sent me! FREE Twitter $50 Gas Card Giveaway!]  

5. Only open to United States and Canada.

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GOOD LUCK!

…and dont forget to
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @STACKSMag and visit us daily on www.stacksmag.net !!!

Contest Dates:  Sunday May 8 thru Saturday May 14

Contributors Needed!!

Are you looking for stacks?   Well, STACKS Magazine is looking for you too!!  If you have a passion for writing and are looking for an outlet to gain some exposure…we want to partner with you!

STACKS Magazine is in search of contributing writers with the following attributes:

• Seeking mainly exposure and not immediate compensation (occasional incentives will be awarded)
• Aggressive and somewhat opinionated
• Passionate about educating and entertaining
• Knowledgeable in one or more of these areas: Music, Fashion, Film/TV, Sports and/or Finances (personal and/or, business)

Our expectations…

• Get the story!!!  Do research and/or conduct phone or in-person interviews with individuals in your specified area of knowledge
• Attend industry events when needed (travel/entry costs covered)
• Submit 1 or more articles per month (all drafts are subject to approval)

If you’re interested and meet the criteria, please contact Shea at shea@stacksmag.net.

Event: 2011 Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference + Expo

On May 22-25, Atlanta’s Marriot Marquis Hotel will host the 2011 Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference and Expo. This annual event gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to network, strike new deals, learn of new innovations, and gain knowledge from several high-powered speakers.  Several stand-out segments of the conference will be the following:

ELEVATOR PITCH COMPETITION:
Record and upload your best business pitch. The top 10 finalists will be invited to the 2011 Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference + Expo where they will pitch the idea to judges and our audience for a chance to win $10,000!

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS:
The Black Enterprise Small Business Awards were created to provide special recognition to African American entrepreneurs who embody the Black Enterprise entrepreneurial spirit. All entries must be received by March 15, 2011. Winners will be announced at a special awards luncheon May 23, 2011 at the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference.

TEENPRENEURS:
Black Enterprise welcomes young business talent for our best ever Teenpreneurs program (ages 13-17). We’re focused on enhancing your child’s business savvy and applying those techniques to craft a viable business plan. We guarantee an enriching, motivating experience that will help transform mini minds into major players. Space is limited so register now!

The conferences’ general registration fee is $495. If you own a business and would like to promote your services, there’s also vendor tables available. 

For additional information, go to www.blackenterprise.com/ec

Recap: Mario Armstrong & Common @ AT&T 28 Days Speaker Series

Monday night at the Atlanta Symphony Hall, AT&T’s 28 Days Speaker Series program kicked off. The series, which is in its third year and exclusively hosted by rapper/actor/activist Common, highlights African-American history makers and new innovators. In conjuction with Black History Month, AT&T’s idea is to highlight February as more than a reflection of the past, but as an unimaginable footprint to what the future holds beyond Black History Month.  The first speaker from last night was Mario Armstrong.  The fairly young and enthusiatic entreprenuer is a Digital Lifestyle Expert and owner of Mario Armstrong Media, LLC.  His company creates content for traditional, mobile & online media outlets for syndication. He has the only technology based talk show on SiriusXM. He has appeared on C-Span, TV-One, CNBC,  and various other news media outlets. 

Although the program started later than expected, after hearing the things this man had to say I was grateful that I stayed. He spoke about following your passion and how to incorporate technology in that quest. One of the first things he mentioned was that he was appreciative that we [audience] showed up to this event. If you are in pursuit to becoming a “history maker” you have to at least “show up”. Therefore, he was all smiles and thankful that this audience showed up and was ready to listen, learn, and be inspired.  As we sat and listened and became inspired by Armstrong, he went on to mention a few entreprenuers that inspire him such as: Dr. Jayfus Doswell, CEO, Juxtopia, two sisters who owns Casauri‘s (high-end laptop bags and accessories), Lonnie Johnson (inventor of the Super Soaker), Angela Benton - CEO, Black Web Media, and NT Etuk – CEO, Tabula Digita (revolutionized how we incorporate education in digitial video gaming).  All of these individuals possess certain qualities. Here are few of them:

1. Change your mentality

2. Know your true passion

3. Believe in you

4. Visualize amazing outcomes

5. Do not bail out in hard times

If you collectively use all of these things, Armstrong believes you will have a greater chance at becoming a history maker. He also expressed the fact that you may hit rock bottom during the process. For instance, he showed us a snapshot of his Bank of America bank statement from 2008. On it were four to five separate accounts. Each one was either depleted or had less than $30 bucks in it. He showed us this because he wanted us to see how far him and his family had gone in pursuit of their dream.  This example showed us that we all at some point will hit an obstacle.  But if we have passion for what we are striving for, don’t give up. For his family, this financial set-back was only temporary. Even though his first “almost” secured $250,000 contract didn’t pan out, eventually other contracts came in.

Armstrong asked the audience who all were not able to pursue their passion due to lack of technology. Several people raised their hands. Armstrong picked this young lady name “Diamond”.  She spoke on how she was passionate about becoming a writer and how her mom buys her bundles of notebooks from Family Dollar in support of her dreams. Diamond had been writing manually for so long that she acquired a stack of notebooks full of her writings. She was definitely in the right place at the right time. Armstrong went off stage, came back, and presented her with a brand new laptop, Beats by Dre headphones, and a digital video recorder.  The moment was very special.

SMASH IT! (Show Movement And Start History-Making)

We all need to begin making history. Armstrong says, “A dream is just a dream. A goal is a dream with a plan and a deadline.”  So it is up to us to stop procastinating and begin brainstorming and put ideas into action. It is imperative that we stay focused and surround ourselves with like-minded people. He spoke on ridding ourselves of “dream killers“.  Indviduals who say no, I can’t, that’s impossible, stay in their comfort zone, don’t reach for new goals, don’t better themselves, or get jealous of your success. Get rid of those types now!

Listening to Mr. Armstrong definitely set a fire to my backside. In the editorial/blogging business, technology plays a major role. We can not function without it. So him speaking to us was worth the time.  Thanks mom for the invite!

For more information on Mario Armstrong, follow him on Twitter @MarioArmstrong, Facebook, or visit his site at www.marioarmstrong.com. 

From Us to You…

STACKS Magazine would like to wish you a Very MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!