Category: Events

Event/Arts & Culture: BLACK EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

For Immediate Release
October 29, 2020

The African American Arts Alliance
to host 2020 Black Excellence Awards

Online ceremony honoring Black artists to be held November 10th

Chicago, IL—The African American Arts Alliance (AAAA) will host the 20th annual Black Excellence Awards, an evening celebrating Black artists, Black voices, and Black stories across all artistic disciplines, on November 10, 2020 at 7pm. The 2020 virtual celebration will honor selected honorees who have exhibited artistic excellence throughout the past year. The live ceremony, to be broadcast on Facebook Live at https://www.facebook.com/aaaachicago, is free and open to the public.

“The Black Excellence Awards have been honoring Black artists for the past 20 years. This year, even though we aren’t able to gather in the same room, the celebration will go on. In this difficult year for so many people, we need to uplift each other as we celebrate Black achievement and come together to remember the importance of the arts and artists in the Chicago community,” comments AAAA Board Chair and Black Ensemble Theater Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor.

The Black Excellence Awards provides recognition of professional African American artists for their achievements of excellence and creativity in the arts. The committee has evaluated performances and works by artists across all artistic disciplines that were created or produced in the past season.

In previous years, several artists in each category were nominated by committee members then voted upon. Due to the shift caused by the pandemic, the nomination and selection process was streamlined. There is no slate of nominees, rather a single awardee, identified as having exhibited artistic distinction, for each category. The awardees will be announced soon. More information is available at https://www.aaaachicago.org/2020-black-excellence-awards.

About the African American Arts Alliance
In 1997 a group of Chicago’s leading African American artists and arts organizations came together and formed a new organization; incorporated as the African American Arts Alliance of Chicago. This organization embraced the history of the original 1977 Chicago Black Theater Alliance while expanding their scope to include diverse groups of artistic mediums which includes theaters, dance, music, literature, film, visual arts organizations, and individuals.

The mission of the African American Art Alliance is to increase public awareness, interaction, communication and development of African American arts organizations and artists within the city of Chicago.

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Event: GO BANG! Magazine’s 6 MONTH ANNIVERSARY!

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

HEY! IT’S GO BANG! Magazine’s 6 MONTH ANNIVERSARY!

I debuted my magazine on April 1, 2020 and these past 6 months have been spectacular. I want to thank EACH & EVERY ONE OF YOU for your support and feedback. Your encouragement keeps me motivated to continue doing what I do and bringing you more in-depth and BANGIN’ interviews!  THANK YOU!

In early 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to publish GO BANG! Magazine.  I wanted to create a platform designed to be an informational, educational and entertainment resource, providing the reader with in-depth reporting on groundbreaking people, places and events, that are making positive differences in the world. I wanted the coverage to run the gamut, from the Arts to Science, and from Technology to Night Life.

In March 2020, the CORONAVIRUS hit the United States of America.  The ENTIRE PLANET was banished to their homes. Everyone was afraid and confused.  It was at this point in time that I knew it was time to debut my magazine.  The WORLD needed something to soothe their minds, just like comfort food soothes your spirit.  They also had plenty of time to read.  So I decided to debut in April, which also happens to be my birth month.

GO BANG! Magazine has interviewed local, national and international DJs, Musicians, Producers, Comedians, Actors, Artists, Dancers, Models, Designers, Screenwriters, Authors, Community Activists, Entrepreneurs and people like YOU!

The individuals that we decide to interview are sometimes well-known, but sometimes they are unknown.  I use this platform to give a spotlight to those that may not be part of “pop culture” but need attention brought to them, based on their positive contribution to this place we call Earth.

LOG ON NOW:  http://www.GoBangMagazine.com

Scroll through the menu tab at the top of page (in white) and you will see the VARIOUS CATEGORIES of interviews.  All of the articles are not posted on the HOME page.  To see the entire catalog of interviews, you must go through each category individually.

GO BANG! Magazine brings you the latest Entertainment, News, People & Events…with SWAG!

QUESTIONS FOR YOU:
(ANSWER BELOW IN THE COMMENTS SECTION)

1. Have you enjoyed the in-depth interviews that I have presented to you in my magazine?
2. Which interviews have you liked most?
3. WHO would you like GO BANG! Magazine to interview next?

LOG ON NOW: http://www.GoBangMagazine.com

Event/Opinion: I MARCHED ON WASHINGTON 2020 – “The Comittment March”

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WATCH THE ENTIRE EVENT courtesy of C-SPAN.org VIDEO:
Click here: https://www.c-span.org/video/?475069-1/national-action-networks-get-knee-necks-rally-march&live=&vod=&eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=e7e463ea-0c4e-428f-b62c-b4504254a42e&fbclid=IwAR1fNs64SGk1o_KASgWIBPxfdSWUW-THOI-FJDmRqM1KQuyhUXmmeqtw1bg

 



The National Action Network (NAN) held a “Get Your Knee Off Our Necks” rally at the Lincoln Memorial on the 57th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Among the speakers were Vice Presidential Candidate Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA), Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Rev. Al Sharpton and Martin Luther King, III. Also delivering remarks were family members of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Jacob Blake, Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and Ahmaud Arbery. Following the conclusion of the rally, participants marched to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

I, Pierre A. Evans, had the desire to attend this historic event from the time that I first became aware of it.  In early June, 2020, at  the funeral of George Floyd, Reverend Al Sharpton announced that it would be a MARCH ON WASHINGTON set for Friday, August 28, 2020.  At that moment I knew that I was going! I immediately hit up my homie, Donald Burns, and asked him if he was interested in attending the march with me. He said “HELL YEA!”  We booked our flight and hotel immediately and just waited on the date to arrive.

Once we started our journey on Thursday, August 27, 2020, the first thing that I noticed was that Midway Airport was empty and the plane will filled half capacity.  I didn’t mind either of those changes and welcomed the space and room.  Bear in kind, we are traveling in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.  We we’re literally putting ourselves in the midst of it by traveling. But the urge and need for me to go was overwhelming.  The last time that I went to DC was to attend the “Million Man March” in the 90’s.  Over the years, I’ve come to realize that I am a human rights activist.

We get to DC Thursday afternoon and begin to kick it!  Basically, we just traveled around the area our hotel (The Homewood Hilton) was in, which was Navy Yard/Washington Nationals Stadium.  There was a lot to see and do.  We did it ALL!

The next day, Friday, August 28, 2020, is March day! The event started gathering at 5:30 am and the speakers started at 9am and continued until about 2pm.  Many of the people and families that have been affected by the unjustice and murders committed against Black/Brown people spoke.  The mood of everyone attending was PRIDE!

Being a journalist, I always document and share my travels with my Facebook family, so I went LIVE several times throughout the trip and took numerous photos at historic locations.  You can see the footage on my Facebook page @https://www.facebook.com/pierre.a.evans

The ceremony went overtime and the march didn’t start until about 2ish, an hour late (CPT) lol. Unfortunately, my phone died before the march started so I was unable to record it but it was DOPE!  You already know it was.  I was afraid that it would get violent, especially with ORANGE MAN being in town for the Republican National Convention (RNC).  I was prepared though.  I’m always ready!  Thank GOD all went well and there was no violence on the day of the March.  Unfortunately, I found out that there was violence a few days later at a nighttime march there.

Saturday, August 29, 2020 was my chill day.  After traveling, waking up early Friday, spending all day on my feet and marching, my 53 year old butt needed to chill and recouperate. #Realtalk So that’s all I did. Chill, drink, sleep and eat….ALL DAY!

Sunday, August 30, 2020 started at 4am with a man beating on my door, turning the door handle, trying to push his way into my room, and say over and over “RICHARD!”  Instinctively, I was ready to kick ass!  I rushed to the door, looked though the peep hole and saw a man, who looked intoxicated.  I said “Wassup? What you want?” He said, “Richard!” I said, “Ain’t no Richard here, you got the wrong room, keep it moving bro!” Again he shouted “Richard” and was trying to turn the knob to get in.  I told him, “I’m bout to call security.” He ain’t give a f*ck, he kept on.

So I called the front desk and told them what happened. To my AMAZEMENT, they told me that they do not have ANY Security at 4am.  I was like DAMN! So, I called the Police.  Long story short, they came in about 20 minutes.  The man was gone, but when the Police arrived they said that he was stuck in the stairway, was drunk and was trying to find him room, which was in the same location of the building as mine, just on a different floor.

Later that day, I went to the Martin Luther King Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial and other historic sites. It’s all on Facebook too and was quite a great experience.  I am part of a Facebook group called March on Washington 2020.  This group kept all of the members informed of everything we needed to know and a place to communicate with each other.  Through that group, I got the chance to bond with a cool brutha that lived in Arlington, VA.  Once arriving to DC, we linked up and he was my second kick it partna! His name is Antonio Pearse.  I told him come to Chicago and I’ll show him around CHItown. A cool brotha and woke!

So, overrall, it was a well-needed trip for me to take.  Many people ask, what did you accomplish?  My response is that it’s not like I came back form the march saying NOW I’M FREE!  No, not at all!  I come back to URGE PEOPLE TO VOTE TRUMP OUT AND FOR ALL OF US TO VOTE, WHETHER MY MAIL OR IN PERSON.  

Youth, YOU ARE THE LEADERS OF THIS TIME NOW AND ALL OF YOU need to turn out and VOTE on November 3rd!

I feel that the march was a way to channel my anger, frustration and rage in a way that allows me to remain a FREE man, not locked up in JAIL!

PEACE & POWER TO THE PEOPLE!

 

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com,  NDigo.com,  ChicagoDefender.com,  EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions.  Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

 

 

Events: ACTIVIST CURTIS HAYES, JR. “IT AIN’T HAPPENING!”

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Curtis Hayes, Jr. is a community activist, advocate, entrepreneur and most importantly father from Bluefield, West Virginia. Curtis is known nationally for his heartfelt conversation held during the June 2020 Charlotte, NC protest.

“And I have a 5-year-old son,” Hayes cried out, palms open to the sky. “And it ain’t happening!” – Curtis Hayes, Jr.

The passion that Curtis displayed didn’t start that day. It started when he was 14 and determined to create generational wealth and change his surroundings. His first business was cutting yards to help provide for his family. With an absentee father and a hardworking single mother, Curtis knew he had to make a change and set an example for his younger siblings.

Curtis’ message to his people is not to become comfortable. We must end the notice of being comfortable. When Black people become comfortable, we don’t go and try to achieve the greater heights. Mainly because WE come from a point in life, WE come from a background of not many opportunities. We’ve been oppressed so long as Black people, that we are now becoming oppressors of our own people. That’s my message, breaking the cycle of that.

I have a nonprofit organization EMCB which stands for Excuse Maker Cycle Breaker, where we challenge the youth to break the cycle, not become a statistic and become an upstanding man or woman of their communities.

Haynes is the founder of the Better Way Movement. Curtis is also running for City Council and plans to run for president by age 38 or 39.

A dream deferred isn’t a dream denied!

“Black King! Black Queen! I Am Angry Just Like You! You will feel My pain! You will feel my hurt! You will feel them With My words! You will feel them with my Fight! Hear Me White People! Generations! Enough is Enough!“

Video courtesy of GOOD MORNING AMERICA: (click here) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXHxe6a1tuI

GO BANG! Magazine: How did your childhood experiences shape you to start your own “lawn business” at 14 years old and later become an activist and entrepreneur?

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: My childhood taught me to be strong and to take advantage of every opportunity. My life also taught me to not become what I grew up in. Not to become a product of my environment. I understood, coming from a single parent home living paycheck to paycheck, that I did not want that for me and my family. So, at the age of 14, I decided to start my own lawn business. Coming from limited possibilities, I chose to have unlimited possibilities. Therefore, it has taught me ultimately to work hard and create generational wealth.

GO BANG! Magazine: On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: The death of George Floyd not only impacted his family, but the family of the officer. It’s a sad situation on both ends. Both families are suffering for the action of the police officer. We have been fighting this fight for 100 years. For his life to be taken by an officer, it’s horrible and sad for his family having to suffer. To also speak on the family of the officer, they have to now suffer from the actions on his end, while abusing his power. Overall, it’s a tragedy.

When you talk about police reform, no I am not about abolishing the police. Of course we need them to protect and serve. We must get these officers who abuse their authority. We must increase the training. Police reform is deep. We let these officers get recommendations to move to different departments, instead of termination. They are not held accountable. They abuse their authority and we fire them from one department and send them to another. That’s the bigger issues.


GO BANG! Magazine: Many first became familiar with you from your involvement in the worldwide protests over George Floyd’s murder at the knee of a police officer. At the time, you were at a 2020 Charlotte, NC protest. It was due to a viral YOUTUBE video of you creating dialog between three generations; yourself, another Black gentleman, and a Black youth. What inspired you to reach out to them, how did you feel when you had that conversation and how has that video moment changed your life?

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: The moment after having the conversation at the protest, I realized I was once a 16 year old that experienced hurt pain and frustration. I felt I needed to have that conversation as a human race, a man in this world, and being a black man on top of that the most. We miss out of giving that to our youth. I want them to start knowing they are the current leaders of our community.

GO BANG! Magazine: What do you feel you accomplished at that protest, what did you learn, and what work still needs to be done to help free the Black/Brown man/woman?

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: I feel like it was only the beginning. My message saved a lot of people. I feel as though I brought a lot of awareness of how many generations are experience racial injustice and how long it has been occurring.

GO BANG! Magazine: Please describe your company Excuse Maker Cycle Breaker (EMCB) and its mission to our readers.

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: EMCB – I created this organization to create cycle breakers. We tend to make excuses for what we grew up in. I step in to help break the cycle instead of becoming a part of the systematic problem that the black community faces. We encourage and promote them to become cycle breakers within their neighborhoods and communities.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is the Better Way Movement, which you founded?

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: The goal is to create positive change in communities and cities all across the nation through healthy dialogue between ALL races and backgrounds.

GO BANG! Magazine: I understand that you are planning to soon run for President of the United States. That’s quite a goal to set and quite attainable too. How long from now will you begin your campaign and what will your primary issues be?

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: As I start my journey into politics, me running for President in the next two terms is a high priority on my list of pursuits. My team and I are working right now to find the best options as far as entering into the race and seeing where I best fit.

The primary issues that I plan to focus on include helping change legislation. Also, I am big on the environment and making sure that the future for our kids is safe. Homelessness is a very big issue in our country. It has been on the rise and we have totally abandoned affordable housing. Another major issue that I feel strongly about is taxes and how the American people are robbed to help bigger organizations grow.

GO BANG! Magazine: Who or what inspires/motivates you to do what you do and why?

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: My mom and the American people. I do it because I am a lover of all people.

GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, what is next on the agenda for you? Do you have any projects lined up for later in the future, after the COVID-19 pandemic that you can tell our readers about?

Curtis Hayes, Jr.: The next thing on the agenda is to continue to empower and encourage our people through our mentorship, our football organization and through my day to day business endeavors. We plan to enter the political arena. We are starting at the state level and working our way up to the highest office that God allows me to run for.

We do have many projects lined up, but after Covid of course. We have lined up many empowerment speeches/events, as well as other empowering events that will help within our community. We will push this narrative, which is actually the title of my upcoming book, “We Grow up in it. We Grow into it. We need to Grow out of it.”

You can follow Curtis Hayes on Instagram @curtis_hayesnc




Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Business/Events/Nightlife/Music: ROBBI THE PROMOTER

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Robbi The Promoter is based in New York City. He began promoting in 1995 and currently promotes dance parties (in and outside of New York), web sites, clothing, dance music videos + releases, and is affectionately known as the “5 Time Award-Winning Best Promoter”, winning Undergroundarchives’ Best Promoter award five years in a row (2000-2005). His promotional reach extends from Chicago to Philly, Miami and beyond.

He also “shops” music to labels and has played a major part “raising” (promoting/managing) a few DJs, from the ground up, such as Ian Friday, Mr.V, Alix Alvarez, Adam Rios + Mark Francis, and Miguel Ortiz, just to name a few.

His managing and promoting has single-handedly made Chicago legends DJ Wayne Williams and DJ Alan King more popular in New York and cities outside of Chicago.

He’s also a “filter” for DJs, which simply means that promoters from all over contact him to book DJs which in turn, he refers them to the actual DJ or their booking agents.

He has a blast doing all of this all day, which makes his “pro” life pretty much his personal life.

GO BANG! Magazine: Why did you decide to pursue the business side of the House music industry and become involved in the marketing and promotion of dance parties?

Robbi The Promoter: Actually I never planned for it to get this far nor be a promoter. I simply love the music but was always too broke to get into clubs. I used to go to these parties called the “Underground Network” and asked around if there was anything I can do to help. So, I was introduced to Cedric Freedom (RIP), Barbara Tucker (yes the Queen of House music), and Don Welch, who ran that party. So funny! It was a meeting that lasted not even 30 seconds…..They gave me a stack of flyers and told me to go hand them out!

GO BANG! Magazine: Over the years you have become what some would call a legendary promoter in the House community. How do you feel about possessing that title?

Robbi The Promoter: Without a doubt I feel great about it. First, I’m probably the only one in the world that uses promoting as an art form. I mean from the time I was handed that first stack of flyers, I’ve been extremely creative with the way I do things. My aim daily is to impress folks with insane thought process that constantly evolves ……for most part, it’s like watching a legendary DJ do those distinct tricks.

GO BANG! Magazine: There are many people that may call themselves promoters that simply share flyers or events on Facebook. Is that all it takes to be a promoter or does promoting consist of more than that?

Robbi The Promoter: Well to be honest, one can succeed in doing just that if they have a ton of followers, but of course promoting consists of way more than that.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is it about you or your personality that make you effective as a promoter?

Robbi The Promoter: I actually don’t have much of a personality and very poor social skills. When I’m out, I don’t talk much, sit at bars, engage in convos or any of that stuff. But, it’s the way I do things and the artists I’m associated with that brings attention to me and the things I’m involved in.

GO BANG! Magazine: Not only do you promote dance parties, you also promote websites, clothing, music and more. What is the difference in promoting products versus events?

Robbi The Promoter: Parties, websites, and clothing, I target everyone. As far as for Music, I target DJs and people I know who collect music.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve promoted events in the U.S. and abroad, including here in Chicago, the home of House music. What in particular do you like about promoting Chicago DJ’s and events?

Robbi The Promoter: When working with the Chosen Few DJs and Ron Trent, first the most important thing they NEVER do is crowd or micromanage me (as I’m quick to get away from the controlling types.) They’re swift in providing me with tools I need and working with them is naturally smooth and exciting. Speaking of tools, lemme give a quick shout out to dude MOE (moeknowsbest.com ) the media/artwork/web design guy for the Chosen Few. In my 26 years, his work is the best I’ve seen.

GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to someone that is interested in becoming a promoter, but don’t know exactly how to begin or if they have what it takes?

Robbi The Promoter: First learn and love whatever you’re interested in doing. If you’re desperate and just geared on becoming a star, it’s not going to happen and you’re going to look stupid (to me at least.)

Just starting off?? I’d suggest take a course in Marketing.

Avoid being exclusive to working with one person it never ends well. For example, I’ve seeing tons of so called EXCLUSIVE promoters benched during the pandemic.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it personally?

Robbi The Promoter: I’ve been keeping things moving here. Closed clubs have been replaced with promoting VIRTUAL DJs, festivals and there’s still music, etc.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is next on the agenda for you? Do you have any projects lined up for later in the future, after the COVID-19 pandemic that you can tell our readers about?

Robbi The Promoter: As soon as clubbing restarts (if ever), I’m ready to relaunch my UPTEMPO party (residents Franke Estevez and Duce Martinez) at a nice club in Brooklyn.

You can follow Robbi The Promoter on ALL social media formats:
IG@robbipromoter05
FB@robbiethepromoternyc




Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Film: FILM INDEPENDENT FORUM

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

 

FILM INDEPENDENT FORUM

 

https://www.filmindependent.org/programs/forum/

July 31 – August 7
This year we’re breaking new ground, digitally speaking. With health and safety our top priorities, The 2020 Film Independent Forum will take place entirely online, making it accessible by filmmakers around the globe.

Forum passes are on sale now to Members and the general public.

If you’re a Film Independent Member, you’ll receive 50% off your pass.

Filmmaker Pro and Arts Circle Members, your pass is FREE.
(Email membership@filmindependent.org to learn more and register.)

Just as in years past, the 2020 Forum schedule will be packed with interactive panels, workshops and in-depth discussions, giving attendees ample opportunity to gain the insight, tools and strategies needed to further a career in film & entertainment. Also returning are the ever-popular Industry Connect* sessions, providing valuable one-on-one meetings with key figures and decision-makers from throughout the industry.

In an effort to maximize the accessibility of this all-online edition, closed captioning will be provided for a majority of the events that comprise the Forum.

* Industry Connect registrations are now full.

FORUM PASS BENEFITS AT-A-GLANCE
Live keynotes and conversations
One-on-one sessions with industry experts
Exclusive on demand content
Extended access to Forum recordings and resources
Insights from professional filmmakers around the world
Register for the 2020 Film Independent Forum today.

For more details, visit our Forum Schedule and Speakers & Panelists pages. You can also follow us across social media (@filmindependent) for announcements.

Event: BLACK BUSINESS CRAWL

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

July 23, 2020
For Immediate Release


http://TheBlackMall.com to Host Weekend Black Business Crawls in August
Black Business Month Project to Highlight Black-Owned Enterprises in Five Chicago Business Districts

Chicago, IL – To mark the 26th anniversary of National Black Business Month in Illinois, an official recognition by the state of Illinois in honor of ancestor, Dr. Webb Evans, http://TheBlackMall.com (TBM) will host Black business crawls every Saturday in August covering 5 major areas.

“2020 is a year of major change, making it an open portal for Black owned businesses to finally gain the spotlight,” declared TBM CEO Cassiopeia Uhuru. “August is the perfect month to set the stage.”

TheBlackMall.com is a book, brick and click platform that Makes it EASY to Build & Buy Black! They will be joining forces with Afrika Enterprises, Black Entrepreneurship Collective, Black Chicago Eats, Blacknificent Mile 79th Street Corridor, CBW Productions, Red Level Entertainment, SMP Creative Business and Design, Steps Inc Consulting, The Black Ink Group, United Black American Progress Association and WDB Marketing to sip, shop and support Black businesses like we’ve never done before.

The Black Business Crawl will happen in Englewood, Hyde Park, Chatham, Austin, and Uptown, and other communities between noon and 4pm every Saturday in August and include some of Chicago’s favorite Black owned businesses such as Culture Connection, The Silver Room, Sip & Savor, Batter & Berries, Shawn Michelle’s and many more. Each crawl will kick off at a flagship business complete with a DJ, libations and a host organization that will disseminate information on the next businesses to visit and support in that area. We invite all to join us via car, caravan, bike, by foot or crawl for this impactful experience in unity.

To help track the impact of supporting these businesses throughout the month, TBM has joined forces with Black Coin to test a new web and mobile application that makes it easy for users to upload their receipts, identify Black-owned businesses and gather important data that can be used to improve our business districts.

In addition, we will be hosting a day to give back to the community on August 15th by distributing hot meals in collaboration with The Doula Part and The Culture Chicago.

“Please join us as we seize these historical moments and continue the movement emphasizing that Black Lives AND Black Businesses Matter,” Uhuru continued.
For details go to http://TheBlackMall.com

About TBM: TheBlackmall.com is an aggregator of Black owned businesses offering product distribution and bookable services for entrepreneurs via our multi-vendor website, our brick and mortar retail/fulfillment center and digital marketing solutions, Making it EASY to Build & Buy Black! Since 2011, we have recycled over $700,000 to Black owned businesses and successfully connected over 2000 BOBs with 2,000,000 online customers.

Film: AMERICAN BLACK FILM FESTIVAL GOES VIRTUAL

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Online Edition Scheduled for August 21-30, 2020

LOS ANGELES, CA, (June 11, 2020) – ABFF Ventures LLC., today announced that the 24th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) will take place online August 21-30, 2020 at abff.com. The ABFF Online Edition will continue the tradition of the live festival, featuring the best of independent black cinema, studio premieres, conversations and panels, business of entertainment seminars, along with virtual networking events.

The ABFF will also use its platform for social change in response to the scourge of racial injustice in our country, as well as educate and support its community in an effort to help in its recovery from the coronavirus. This year’s festival theme is “Community First!”

“While we will surely miss being with our ABFF community in Miami Beach this year and connecting in person, what truly binds us together is our shared commitment to ensure inclusion in Hollywood and sustaining a place of inspiration for diverse storytellers. We will persevere through this year and end up a stronger community on the other side of this crisis.” said ABFF Ventures CEO, Jeff Friday.

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) was conceived in 1997 as a vehicle to strengthen the Black entertainment community and provide a platform for emerging artists. It has become one of the leading film festivals in the world and a place of inspiration and community for many. The destination festival, which has typically attracted 7,000 to 10,000 attendees to Miami Beach, will open its virtual doors to a global audience, offering most of its programming free of charge.

Previously announced, Iconic Grammy Award® winning and Academy Award® nominated singer, songwriter, actress, producer and philanthropist Mary J. Blige serves as this years’ ambassador.

Sponsors to date include Warner Media, HBO® (Founding), Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Presenting Sponsors); Comcast NBCUniversal, Amazon Studios (Premier Sponsors); Motion Picture Association (MPA), Sony Pictures Entertainment, Jeff Friday Media, UMC – Urban Movie Channel, Verizon Media (Official Sponsors); Accenture (Supporting Sponsor); Blackfilm.com (Media Partner).


For more information on ABFF and up-to-date news, go to http://www.abff.com and follow @ABFF on Twitter and @AmericanBlackFilmFestival on Instagram and Facebook.

Join in on the conversation by using #ABFF20 and #WeAreABFF.
________________________________________
ABOUT ABFF:

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is an annual event dedicated to recognizing black talent and showcasing quality film and television content by and about people of African descent. Dedicated to the belief that diverse artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts, ABFF founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival in 1997 as a vehicle to strengthen the black entertainment community by fostering resource sharing, education and artistic collaboration.

After 24 years, the festival has become a cornerstone of diversity in Hollywood, providing a platform for emerging black artists — many of who have become today’s most successful actors, producers, writers, directors and stand-up comedians, including Ryan Coogler (Black Panther), Will Packer (“Girls Trip”), Issa Rae (“Insecure”), Kevin Hart (“Night School”), Omari Hardwick (“Power”) and Steven Caple Jr. (“Creed II”). The ABFF is the preeminent pipeline for black artists in front of and behind the camera, and has significantly expanded the range of talent working in the entertainment Industry.

As “the nation’s largest gathering of black film and television enthusiasts” the ABFF attracts a broad audience of celebrity talent, emerging artists, upscale consumers and industry stakeholders. Approximately 7,000 to 10,000 people travel to Miami Beach each year for the five-day event. The festival opens with the premiere of an upcoming Hollywood release followed by a full schedule of intriguing independent film screenings, master classes, panels, celebrity talks, live entertainment, and a variety of networking and hospitality events.

ABOUT ABFF VENTURES:

ABFF Ventures LLC (ABFFV) is a multifaceted entertainment company specializing in the production of live events and branded content. Its mission is to entertain and inspire communities of color while promoting diversity in Hollywood. Headquartered in Los Angeles, ABFFV was formed to stimulate business growth through expansion into other events and services. Its tent-pole properties are the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), cited by MovieMaker magazine as “One of the Coolest Festivals in the World;” and “ABFF Honors,” an annual awards gala saluting the top stars of film and television. In creating ABFF Ventures, CEO Jeff Friday channeled his passion for film and television, as well as his discomfort with the underrepresentation of people of color in Hollywood, into an organization with the ultimate goal of advocating for diversity within the entertainment industry. Through his vision and perseverance, ABFF Ventures has become a highly respected enterprise, generating goodwill throughout the Hollywood and corporate communities.

Dance/Event/Music: HOUSE DANCE CLASS / ANDRE’ PIERRE “THE DANCIN’ MACHINE”

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

TICKET LINK:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/house-music-dance-class-tickets-98875293665

 

THE COVID-19 BAN WAS LIFTED IN CHICAGO ON FRIDAY, JUNE 26TH, 2020.

THEREFORE WE CAN NOW RESCHEDULE OUR 1ST HOUSE DANCE CLASS: 

Date And Time

Sun, August 16, 2020

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM CDT

Location

Dance Studio

403 East 69th Street

Chicago, IL 60637



CLASS SIZE HAS BEEN “REDUCED” to 10-15 TO ACCOMMODATE SOCIAL DISTANCING.

ADVANCED TICKETS ONLY – NO TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR!!!

GET YOUR “EARLY BIRD” HOUSE DANCE CLASS TICKETS NOW!!!

TICKETS GOING FAST!

EVERYONE WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR MASKS & PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING.

IN ADDITION TO THAT, HAND SANITIZER WILL BE AVAILABLE.

ADVANCED TICKETS ONLY – NO TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR!!!

TICKET LINK:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/house-music-dance-class-tickets-98875293665


“GOTTA HAVE HOUSE” – House Dance Class Learn the basics through intermediate levels of house music club-dancing. House music began in Chicago in the 1980’s. The dance is primarily freestyle and there are few restrictions. Master the foundation steps, moves, gestures, and culture of the house community. Discover how to tap into your soul, free your spirit, and give in to the music. This class is for beginners through intermediate students looking to learn, brush up, or enhance their skills on the dance floor. “Dance like nobody’s watching!” DANCE INSTRUCTOR BIO: “ANDRE PIERRE THE DANCING MACHINE”  https://www.facebook.com/AndrePierreTheDancingMachine/

Hailing from Chicago, IL, Pierre Andre’ Evans graduated from Columbia College Chicago, receiving a B.A. degree in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management. He is a well-known fixture in the house community who was informally trained on the club dance floors under the tutelage of the late legendary DJ Ron Hardy, four time GRAMMY Award-nominee DJ Steve “Silk” Hurley, and the late GRAMMY Award winning DJ Frankie Knuckles. One of the highlights of his career was in 2015, dancing on-stage during the 25th anniversary of The Chosen Few DJ’s Reunion Picnic, with an attendance of over 40,000 “househeads.” Those in the house community affectionately refer to him as the “Dancing Machine” because of his carefree dancing skills and never-ending stamina. As a DJ for over 40 years, he’s well-versed in all sub-genres of house music and the dance styles associated with each.

Referring to his dancing alter ego, Andre’ Pierre, the community has coined the phrase: “If Andre’ Pierre is at your party, you know it’s going on!”


I AM HOUSE!

Hailing from Chicago, IL, Pierre Andre’ Evans graduated from Columbia College Chicago, receiving a B.A. degree in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management. He is a well-known fixture in the house community who was informally trained on the club dance floors under the tutelage of the late legendary DJ Ron Hardy, four time GRAMMY Award-nominee DJ Steve “Silk” Hurley, and the late GRAMMY Award winning DJ Frankie Knuckles. One of the highlights of his career was in 2015, dancing on stage during the 25th anniversary of The Chosen Few DJ’s Reunion Picnic, with an attendance of over 40,000 “househeads.” Another more recent highlight was in 2019, when he danced on stage at the founder of house music, “Robert Williams’ Day” celebration.
Those in the house community affectionately refer to him as the “Dancing Machine” because of his carefree dancing skills and never-ending stamina. As a DJ for over 40 years, he’s well-versed in all sub-genres of house music and the dance styles associated with each.
Referring to his dancing alter ego, Andre’ Pierre, the community has coined the phrase, “If Andre’ Pierre is at your party, you know it’s going on!”

 




Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

NEVER MISS A HIT!!!

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