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Howard University And Lionsgate Create Internship Program To Diversify The Entertainment Industry

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H oward University and Lionsgate have joined forces in an effort to tackle Hollywood’s diversity issues. The HBCU and the entertainment company have launched an internship program to teach students the ins and outs of television and film, Deadline reported. Thanks to @Lionsgate , students at Howard University in D.C. are getting a chance to learn the entertainment business through paid internship programs https://t.co/32IuNnmVN5 — Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) April 11, 2019 The program—which initially started at UCLA—is designed to build a pipeline of diverse students and open up career pathways for them to enter the industry. During the internship program, six to 12 students will have the opportunity to work across various departments in the company, go on field trips, attend lectures from prominent individuals in the industry and work on their own projects. The effort to bring the program to Howard was led by alumni Sen. Kamala Harris . The institution’s president Wayne A. I. Frederick says that the internship program will be an integral part of ensuring that the next generation of Hollywood executives is diverse. “Howard University has produced several graduates from film, law, business and theater who have paved their own paths into Hollywood through their persistence, however there is more work to do before the entertainment industry reflects the diverse audiences it serves,” Frederick said in a statement, according to the news outlet. “I applaud our partners at Lionsgate for building a bridge from higher education to the workplace which will help diversify Hollywood behind the camera and create a new generation of executives.” Lionsgate Vice Chairman Michael Burns added that students in the program are “creating opportunities for us to make our workplace more diverse and our storytelling richer and more varied.” Both Lionsgate and Howard hope that they can set the example for other HBCUs and entertainment companies to follow suit. Programs that create career pathways in the entertainment industry for underrepresented groups are needed. According to UCLA’s 2019 Hollywood Diversity Report , people of color make up a mere 7.8 percent of film writers and only 12.6 percent of film directors come from diverse backgrounds. SEE ALSO: #BlackExcellence: Taraji P. Henson To Receive Star On Hollywood Walk Of Fame #BossMoves: 14-Year-Old Marsai Martin To Become Youngest Hollywood Executive Producer In History [ione_media_gallery src=”https://newsone.com” id=”3850202″ overlay=”true”]

Howard University And Lionsgate Create Internship Program To Diversify The Entertainment Industry

‘RHOAS11’ Reunion Recap: NeNe’s Attitude Steals The Show Again

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Source: Bravo / Getty Part two of the Real Housewives of Atlanta Reunion aired tonight and honestly, it should be the last episode to finally close out the season, but it’s not. There’s more next week. Anyway, tonight Andy rehashed more trite issues that we need to just let die. Anyway, NeNe’s negativity takes center stage again. Her attitude is heavy, and it’s affecting everyone else. Once again, Andy discusses her drama with Gregg. NeNe reveals that they are in therapy but when Gregg comes out later to give his side of the story, he said he wants to work things out with NeNe. Therapy is a good step, but NeNe says she’s not sure what she wants to do. That could just be her taking a dig at Gregg. You know how she likes to be so nasty and so rude when she feels attacked so this could be that. Let’s fast forward a bit because even Eva, Tanya, Porsha and Cynthia had moments where they explained that they were genuinely in NeNe’s corner and wanted to support her. NeNe said that none of them were her friends at all and that really seems to sting. Porsha is the first to bring that up in a seemingly heartfelt attempt to get NeNe to see that they are on her side. They also agree that NeNe pushes people away and it’s hurtful. NeNe, after all that was said, said she had nothing to say. Prior to Porsha’s plea, the only thing NeNe really had to say was that these women were just coming at her for clout. You know how she thinks she’s the Queen B, right? Yeah. So that’s that. Fun NeNe is entirely gone and we’re left with the egomaniac who treats people like trash. Eva brought up an interesting point too. She said NeNe is only cool with her when she acts like a lap dog. This is something that has definitely come up before with NeNe and other women. But that aside, we also know that NeNe does not do nice very well when she feels her life isn’t going well. That’s also what we’re seeing. It’s sad to see but it is what it is, and there will be even more next week. The big fallout is coming. RELATED POSTS ‘RHOAS11’ Reunion Recap: NeNe Is So Nasty So Rude For Body-Shaming Pregnant Porsha ‘RHOAS11’ Recap: Kenya Moore’s Return Causes NeNe To Have Another Tantrum

‘RHOAS11’ Reunion Recap: NeNe’s Attitude Steals The Show Again

National Couple’s Month: Ten Couples Who Prove Black Love Is Going Strong

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Source: Getty / Getty Black love is one of the most powerful unions in the universe. However, Black couples are not as praised and magnified as they should be. Black love is real. Appreciate each other Love each other Have fun with each other Joke with each other Uplift each other Communicate with each other Enjoy each other Travel Fall in love -@Shi_wortham “I appreciate all Men who have integrity and morals and just dependable…I enjoy witnessing Black Love /Marriages… And not those who only practice in public and behind closed doors.” -@BiancasTalite13 There’s definitely a stigma when it comes to healthy, Black relationships in America. The images that we see in the media don’t often show images of Black love, let alone celebrate it. NPR did a whole report on why so many Black Women are single. The article stated: Dating is hard for lots of people, but for black women in the United States, it can be uniquely horrible. For one thing, we’re often expected to conform to white beauty standards. For another, we’re up against a hold parade of racist stereotypes: that we’re angry, overbearing, lazy, prudish and hyper-sexual and emasculating all at once. Those stereotypes and expectations do two things. First, they limit the pool of people who are interested in dating black women. And second, they often create situations where we, as black women, try super hard not to fit into those categories. So rather than relaxing and trying to have fun with potential dates, we’re caught up in the impossible game of trying to seem fun and ambitious and feminine and flirty…but not too flirty. But don’t fret— there are still some brothers out that love them some melanin. Couples like Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union have had many ups and downs throughout their nearly decade long relationship, but somehow they’ve managed to prevail and look like a Black Barbie and Ken doll in the process. April is National Couple Appreciation Month , and there are several ways to celebrate: Leave a love note on your mate’s car. Surprise your love with coffee or tea before they wake. If your sweetheart is a selfie-loving type and you’re not, give in on occasion and take a couples’ selfie. Let your significant other overhear you complimenting them. We’ve decided to honor the special month by highlighting some of our favorite couples who prove Black Love is still strong and long lasting. Check out these ten couples who exemplify Black love at it’s best. [ione_media_gallery src=”https://globalgrind.cassiuslife.com” id=”4160581″ overlay=”true”]

National Couple’s Month: Ten Couples Who Prove Black Love Is Going Strong

Waffle House Shooting Hero Honored By Justice Department

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I t’s been nearly a year since the tragic mass shooting at a Nashville-based Waffle House occurred and the man who intervened and saved the lives of many individuals at the restaurant on that frightful day is still being honored for his heroic efforts. Tennessee native James Shaw Jr. was recognized at the National Crime Victims’ Service Awards on Friday, the Tennessean reported. The U.S. Justice Department presented James Shaw Jr. the special Courage Award during the annual National Crime Victims' Service Awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Friday. https://t.co/tfLLUItqhZ — WSMV News4 Nashville (@WSMV) April 12, 2019 The ceremony—which took place in Washington, D.C.—honored individuals and organizations who have displayed their dedication to providing support for victims of traumatic experiences. Survivors who have utilized their own journeys to empower others were also celebrated at the ceremony. Shaw was given the Special Courage Award. While Shaw was dining at the Waffle House on April 22, 2018 a gunman opened fire on restaurant patrons. Shaw sprung into action and fought the gunman in an effort to get the weapon out of his hands and prevent him from shooting other people inside of the restaurant. Shaw was able to successfully disarm the gunman; a heroic action that saved lives. Four people were murdered and four others, including Shaw, were injured. In the aftermath of the shooting, Shaw launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for the families of the deceased. Leaders wanted to honor him not only for his heroism during the incident, but his dedication to helping the loved ones of those lost heal. “Risking his own life, Mr. Shaw acted swiftly and bravely after a gunman killed four people early one morning at a diner, saving the lives of many others. He then followed up his courageous action by delivering comfort and aid to wounded and traumatized victims,” Attorney General William P. Barr said in a statement, according to the news outlet. “None of us knows how we would react in such a dangerous situation, but we can all be inspired by Mr. Shaw’s selflessness.” Shaw has received awards and honors from educational institutions, organizations, and individuals. Tennessee State University has set up a scholarship fund in his name, BET gave him a Humanitarian Award, and he was honored with a Gold Vail Award by AT&T Chief Executive Officer Randall L. Stephenson . He also was recognized by Steve Harvey and Ellen DeGeneres . SEE ALSO: Hero Who Stopped Waffle House Shooter Launches Fund For Victims’ Families Waffle House Hero James Shaw Reacts To Trump’s Too Little, Too Late Phone Call [ione_media_gallery src=”https://newsone.com” id=”3850824″ overlay=”true”]

Waffle House Shooting Hero Honored By Justice Department

8-Year-Old Helps Siblings Overcome Sickle Cell Disease

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A n 8-year-old from Orlando is being hailed a hero after saving the lives of his brother and sister. According to WPTV , Stefan Aihe donated his bone marrow to help them both overcome sickle cell disease. Stefan Aihe is a hero. https://t.co/jMsud3S4TK — ESSENCE (@Essence) April 12, 2019 Kingsley , 22, and Vanessa , 13, were both born with the blood disorder which is one of the most common genetic diseases. The disease causes the breakdown of red blood cells which can result in blocking oxygen and blood flow to certain parts of the body. African-Americans are disproportionately impacted by the disease. According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 13 Black babies are born with the sickle cell trait. Bone marrow transplants are the only cure for the disease, but many people struggle to find a match. After the family decided that they would go through the bone marrow transplant process with both Kingsley and Vanessa, they were surprised and ecstatic to discover that their youngest child Stefan was a match for both of their other children. Vanessa was cured after Stefan gave her a transplant a few years ago and now Kingsley is cured from a transplant that Stefan gave him in November. “It’s incredibly rare to have the same donor give to two different siblings. You know, to match is uncommon, but it’s not impossible,” Dr. David Shook told the news outlet. Their mother Nikki Aihe says this has been a huge blessing for the family. The family hopes their story will inspire others to spread awareness about sickle cell and individuals will step up and become donors. There have been efforts to bring attention to the disease and its disparities. Pfizer recently announced that the company is teaming up with other sickle cell advocates to push research surrounding the disease forward. SEE ALSO: Waffle House Shooting Hero Honored By Justice Department Second-Grader’s School Project Led To Meeting With Bessie Coleman’s Niece [ione_media_gallery src=”https://newsone.com” id=”3850202″ overlay=”true”]

8-Year-Old Helps Siblings Overcome Sickle Cell Disease

Reunited And It Feels So Good, Millennium Tour Takes Us Back To The Early 2000’s

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  Source: Local: B2K 2019 Millennial Tour_Contest_KBFB_Dallas_RD_January 2019 / CS – IONE DIGITAL   Last week I was able to relive one the best time periods in my 20 something years of living along with so many others at the Millennium Tour. Going back to a time where Jersey Dresses, Slouch socks, bamboo earrings, and men wearing 2XL everything was considered a trend, this was a show I could not miss. The best moment about this particular time period was the music. Lloyd had us wanting to go to the south side, while we chicken head with Chingy at the H oliday-Inn , we were all slowing down for Bobby V, Grinding with Pretty Ricky, rying to be J ust A Friend  to Mario, and explaining to B2K why some of us made the perfect Girlfriend . There were many popular child stars and groups that was in our age bracket we felt there was chance to chosen, which I feel is lacking in today’s music. Who are kids listening to in there age bracket and who is this generation growing up with musically? As a child I had posters plastered all around my room and school lockers from the Word Up Magazines t o the CD covers. So covering the Millennium Tour was nothing short from amazing. Was I the only one who kept CD’s on repeat feeling like I was being sung to knowing damn well half of those songs we shouldn’t have known in the first place?  Well it’s truly an amazing feeling to grow up with the stars you admired and I can honestly say the feeling was mutual for these performers as well. r While I enjoyed the show as if i was back at a Scream Tour, I did run into a few familiar faces. Now there were much speculation about certain artist not being apart of the tour and why,  but somehow they made there way to Millennium Tour right here in the ATL. Check out what your favorite childhood stars, see what they’ve been up to along with what they have in store.

Reunited And It Feels So Good, Millennium Tour Takes Us Back To The Early 2000’s

Issa Rae: Marsai Martin Outshined Me In Karaoke While Filming ‘Little’

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Source: Universal / Universal Here’s one thing that’s not up for debate. The comedy Little is the epitome of #BlackGirlMagic. The hilarious comedy starring Regina Hall, Issa Rae and executive producer Marsai Martin, centers on on a insufferable tech mogul, Jordan Sanders, who wakes up as the 13-year-old version of herself. Martin plays a young Sanders while Hall is perfect as the adult exec who tortures her employees, including April (Issa Rae). Jordan and April bond as the roles are reversed and April finds herself bossing around her younger, older boss. Little, an idea from Martin who was inspired by Tom Hanks’ body-swapping classic Big , makes Martin the youngest Black executive producer in Hollywood. While chatting about the film, Issa and Marsai let us in on what it was like to film the karaoke scene of the fun flick. “The Mary J. Blige scene, [Marsai] was just so good. She can sing and dance and I was like dreading it because I thought we were both on the same page. We’re going to do this bad karaoke. I can’t sing or dance. Then she gets on the table and has the moves and embodies Mary.” Catch Little in theaters NOW! LET’S MAKEUP: Here’s How To Do Issa Rae’s 2019 Critics’ Choice Awards Look For Under $75.00 Marsai Martin Stars In ‘Little,’ Makes History As The Youngest Executive Producer In Hollywood We Are Loving Black-ish Star Marsai Martin’s Red Carpet Glow Up

Issa Rae: Marsai Martin Outshined Me In Karaoke While Filming ‘Little’

Regina Hall and Issa Rae Get Real About Little and Life | Extra Butter

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If the movies 13 going on 30 , BIG and Freaky Friday were combined together the end result would be LITTLE . Marsai Martin stars in and executive produces Universal Pictures’ LITTLE , a comedy directed by Tina Gordon who also directed Peeples and ATL, that is produced by Will Packer the man who brought you smash hits like Girls Trip, Ride Along, and Think Like a Man franchise. The film tells a story of a woman named Jordan played by Regina Hall, who is a cut throat-stickler of a boss to her tech-savvy assistant, April played by Issa Rae. Jordan terrorizes her employees daily until a magical wish turns grown-up Jordan into a kid again, played by Marsai Martin. Imagine waking up as your 13-year-old self again, what would you do?. We sat down with Issa Rae and said if Little Issa could give big Issa advice she would tell her “I would tell her to have more fun, we wanted this, what are you stressing for? Why are you doing this much work? Where’s the play at and I’d listen to her too”. LITTLE is humorous and heartwarming as we watch the mean CEO learn her life lessons. The character Jordan must face her past of middle school, accepting her true self and making real friends. Regina Hall shared some of her life reflections saying, “Life doesn’t give you what you want, you should never think “I should have”, that just makes you miserable; It’s more than just being gracious, there‘s a lot of existences that go on in the world and I think we just get spoiled, or what we are entitled to. There is always something to be grateful for”. Halls performance was witty and fun to watch, her strong attitude carried the character of Jordan throughout the entire film. Issa Rae and Marsai Martin have an undeniable on-camera connection that made the comedic moments click right on time. Martin not only pitched this film but also drew inspiration from one of her favorite films BIG starring Tom Hanks. If you look deeper into the movie you will see where the uplifting messages arise. We spoke with Regina Hall and Issa Rae about uplifting each other in a work setting, black competition, creating opportunities, staying true to you regardless of outside circumstances, Black girl magic and more. LITTLE will give you feel good laughs from beginning to end. Don’t miss it in theatres this Friday, April 12th .

Regina Hall and Issa Rae Get Real About Little and Life | Extra Butter

Missing Link: Zach Galifianakis & Zoe Saldana Talk Self-Acceptance, Working With Others & More

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Stop-motion animation was once thought to be a dying genre, but Laika studios new film Missing Link is breathing new life into the film style. Missing Link tells the story of Sir Lionel Frost, “who sets off on an adventure to the Pacific Northwest to prove the existence of a legendary creature—Mr. Link. Frost, who’s also looking to gain acceptance by his small-minded explorer peers, is accompanied on his journey by Adelina Fortnight, a free-spirited, independent adventurer who just so happens to possess the only known map to their secret destination of trying to find Link.” Zach Galifianakis stars as Mr. Link, the Bigfoot Sasquatch in search of his relatives and Zoe Saldana voices Adelina Fortnight, the free-spirited traveler who, along with Sir Lionel Frost, helps Mr. Link find his people. On this episode of Extra Butter, I spoke with the Zach and Zoe about some of the underlying themes of the film, including acceptance, fitting in, and being told to “stick with your own kind.” Is it best to stick with your own, or can you grow from experiencing other people and different things? Zach told us: I think [experiencing other people and things] is the best way to go about it. We’re supposed to be living here with each other. We’re all from different walks of life. One should never feel like one is better than the other. In North Carolina, there was a cabin that was built eons ago, and the reason it’s still erecting is because the Germans and the Brits worked on it together. When different ideas come and work together, it’s mathematical. It’s only better. Zoe added: I think you have to [stick with your own] for a certain amount of time, in order for you to learn about your heritage, your history, who you were — even those before you, who they were. But as soon as that happens, to journey outside of your comfort zones is crucial in order for you to grow knowledge, experience. But also to gain compassion about everything that is different outside of yourself, because you have to nurture curiosity.   Some may be surprised to find out that someone as beautiful as Ms. Saldana use to have a problem fitting in. I feel like school was the most difficult time in my life. Having to go back to the same place that causes so much stress in you because of the projections. Everybody is just projecting. And kids tend to be really mean through their innocence. The lack of knowledge and the lack of experience sometimes compels you to be a really heartless person.  Fortunately, the actress never let the childhood drama stop her from becoming a box office phenom. See what else Zach and Zoe had to say in the video above. Catch Missing Link when it hits theaters this Friday, April 12th.

Missing Link: Zach Galifianakis & Zoe Saldana Talk Self-Acceptance, Working With Others & More

Report: Rapper Waka Flocka Escapes Shooting at Atlanta Recording Studio

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Join Our Text Club To Get The Latest Music, Entertainment, Contests And Breaking News On Your Phone. Text BALTIMORE to 24042 to join! Source: Prince Williams / Getty Waka Flocka Flame walked away alive from an early April shooting. According to reports, gunmen opened fire on the recording studio on April 4th when the rapper and nearly a dozen others were inside. Witnesses told police a trio of gunmen fired the shots in the direction of Zac Recording Studios before fleeing the scene. When officers arrived, they were greeted outside by two armed men who told them that their friend had been shot in the right arm. Waka was not hurt and police are not saying if he was the intended target. MORE INFO: @WakaFlocka , whose real name is Jaquan Malphurs, was among nearly a dozen people at the recording studio when the bullets started flying;witnesses told police that three gunmen fired shots into the studio, police confirmed. — Michael Seiden (@SeidenWSBTV) April 12, 2019 This all happened earlier this month (April 4) at Zac Recording on 669 Antone St. We stopped by the studio, but an unidentified man told us “no comment”through an intercom. — Michael Seiden (@SeidenWSBTV) April 12, 2019 I also reached out to @WakaFlocka manager for comment, but I haven’t heard back. — Michael Seiden (@SeidenWSBTV) April 12, 2019 [ione_media_gallery src=”https://92q.com” id=”4018773″ overlay=”true”]

Report: Rapper Waka Flocka Escapes Shooting at Atlanta Recording Studio