PLATINUM AND GRAMMY-WINNING ARTISTS MIXED IT UP AT THE 2006 GLOBAL MIXX DJ RETREAT

Kanye West, Common, Method Man, Ludacris, Twista, Lupe Fiasco, Eightball & MJG, Biz Markie, Shawna, Boss Man, Young Capone, Shareefa, Obie Trice, Rich Boy and Once Chance among celebrities who blew into Windy City for 4-day spectacular

CHICAGO (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- Last weekend, music artists from reggae, hip-hop, and R&B convened in Chicago for the 2006 Global Mixx DJ Retreat. The annual began with exclusive listening sessions, hosted by Bad Boy, Jive, Virgin, Interscope, J Records, Capitol and Atlantic. During the Atlantic Records listening session, DJs were treated to surprise appearances by Lupe Fiasco and Twista. At the invitation-only private DJ outing, sponsored by Bad Boy, Eightball and MJG greeted DJs along with veteran DJ Biz Markie, who demonstrated his trademark style on the turntables. Usher’s group, Once Chance (Us Records), stopped by the J Records listening session to mingle with the DJs and preview their new projects.

Saturday, the Global Mixx sponsored a fun day in the sun and invited the Chicago community to watch live performances and a BBQ grill-off. Re-emphasizing the importance of community involvement, The Global Mixx treated over a hundred deserving children from The Kanye West Foundation, Common Ground, and The Boys and Girls Club of America to the all-day event. During the middle of festivities, the children were honored with an impromptu appearance by Kanye West and Common.

Immediately following the outdoor outing, retreat attendees headed to the Park West Hotel for an evening packed with surprises at the Second Annual Global Mixx DJ Awards Show, presented by Def Jam. Method Man opened the show with his parade grand marshall-style welcoming remarks. Spoken word artist, J-Ivey hosted the annual show. The first performance of the night was by A-Kid, a trick-style DJ child prodigy. At only five years old, standing on a crate, A-Kid captivated the crowd with a stage performance reminiscent of a young Michael Jackson. Then Disturbing Tha Peace (DTP) songstress, Shareefa, electrified the audience. Climaxing her performance was the spontaneous interruption by label head, platinum rapper, Ludacris. Chicago-native and DTP’s Shawna capped off the night of performances with a rap routine that brought the ballroom to its feet. Other celebrities in attendance included Rich Boy, Young Capone, Boss Man and Common, who was on hand to accept the Global Mixx’s $10,000 donation to his non-profit organization, The Common Ground Foundation. Between high-energy performances, the best in the industry for 2006 were announced. Winners included Jermaine Dupri, Kid Capri, DJ Prostyle, Atlantic Records, DJ Kool Herc, Steve “Silk” Hurley, Kay Slay, Greg Street and DJ Drama, who won two awards. The following is the complete list of winners in their category:

Radio Jock of the Year- Greg Street
East Coast Mixer of the Year- Kay Slay
Favorite Female DJ of the Year- Cynnamix
Midwest Mixer of the Year- DJ AJ
West Coast Mixer of the Year- DJ Fashen
Mid-south Mixer of the Year- DJ 007
Visual DJ of the Year- DJ Prostyle
Record Label of the Year (Independent)- Pure Pain
Promotions Company of the Year- Cornerstone
Power Player of the Year- DJ Drama
Promoter of the Year (Record Label)- Crystal Isaacs of Def Jam Music
Ron Hardy Award (House Music)- Gene Hunt
Global Mixx Label of the Year (Major)- Atlantic Records
Global Mixx Producer of the Year- Jermaine Dupri
Mixtape DJ of the Year- DJ Drama
People’s DJ Choice Award- Kid Capri
Living Legend Award- DJ Kool Herc
Living Legend Award (House Music)- Steve “Silk” Hurley

Following the Awards show, the retreat traveled to the Congress Theatre for G.O.O.D. Music Revue, presented by Kanye West and Common. A packed auditorium witnessed the G.O.O.D. music artist line- up which featured performances by Consequence, Sa Ra, GLC and FJ Bentley. The highlight of the night was Kanye West’s and Common’s collaborative performance of “The Corner.”

The 2006 retreat hosted attendees from 13 DJ Coalitions, and music executives from 15 labels, at 18 events spanning four days. The Aphilliates, The Bum Squad DJs, The Club Bangers, The Heavy Hitters, The HipHop Friends, The Hittmen DJs, The Murda Mamis, The Shadyville DJs, The Soul Selectors, The Super Friends, TJ’s DJs, The Turntable Assassins, and The Violator All-Star DJs completed the listed of DJ coalitions in attendance. Participating labels included Among Friends Records, Atlantic Records, Bad Boy Entertainment, Bassment Beats Entertainment, Capitol Records, Def Jam, Disturbing Tha Peace, Freeman Entertainment, G.O.O.D. Music, Interscope Records, J Records, Jive Records, The Legion Records, Sobe Entertainment, Universal and Virgin Records. The retreat’s corporate sponsors were Courvoisier, Demo Mix, DigiWaxx, The House of Blues, Hustle, KOOL, Miller Genuine Draft, Power 92 and The Recording Academy®.

About The Global Mixx DJ Retreat
The Global Mixx DJ Retreat is an exclusive DJ Retreat that educates and empowers the urban DJ community in a relaxed environment. Throughout the retreat, there are various planned on-premise and off- premise activities for the key participants. The DJ Retreat will allow the op dub, street and radio mixshow DJs from around the country to network among themselves and industry executives from various music and technology companies. For additional information, please call (773) 279-9527 or log onto www.GlobalMixx.com.

email: emailblast@chatterboxpublicity.com
phone: 678-438-8820
web: http://www.chatterboxpublicity.com

NS2 Records Signs New Artist Nat Turna

Atlanta, GA- Independent record label, NS2 Records, is pleased to announce that it has signed Dirty South sensation Nat Turna.  The announcement was made at a small private gathering of NS2 investors and Independent entertainers in Downtown Atlanta.
 
NS2 has big plans for the newly signed artist including setting up a rigorous promotional and the development of a dynamic new website. “We also plan to hit all the hot clubs as we make our visits to cities throughout the south,” according to Winfield Johnston Jr. of NS2 Records.
 
Nat made his first appearance as a member of the dirty south rap-duo Fully Down on the Uni-World record label. Fully Down’s debut CD “Poppin’ Slick Out Da Mouth” hit the streets of the south in 2004. “Nat Turna is an artist who brings energy and down-home charm to his performances, “ says Travis Lewis of NS2 and Uni-World Records. We expect he will set the Dirty South on fire,” Lewis added.
 
"Remember back in the day when your cousins from up north would come down for the summer—back when we used to have those big cook-outs or house parties? Those times were some of the best and nobody can do it like we do down south,” says Nat, “I want to bring a little bit of that flavor back through my music”, proclaimed the artist.
 
About NS2 Records
NS2 celebrates the defiant and rebellious nature of Southern life through its stable of independent artists and producers of Southern Rap, Dirty South and Neo-Soul entertainment. Together these genres form The New Sounds of the New South.
 
For more on NS2 artist Nat Turna, please visit www.natturna.com.

Also check out Nat’s industry promo demo at: http://www.mosesmediainc.com/iaps/NAT-TURNER/NAT-TURNER-WEB.html
 
LABEL CONTACT
Travis Lewis
NS2 Records LLC
PO Box 17045*Atlanta, GA 30317
Ph: 678.284.1088* FAX404.629.5912
 
MEDIA CONTACT
Tony Cooper
The Cooper Group
tcooper@thecoopergrp.com

Dead Prez, Da Backwudz, DJ K-Salaam and more LIVE at Galapagos on Friday August 25!

IT'S THE PARTY OF THE SUMMER.

Galapagos Art Space (70 N 6th Street in Williamsburg) is proud to present the DJ K SALAAM record release party, Friday August 25 at 10pm. Only $10. With live performances from DEAD PREZ , DA BACKWUDZ, SAIGON, & DJ sets from DJ K-Salaam.

Hosted by SUHEIR HAMMAD from HBO's Def Poetry Jam.

DJ K-Salaam's new disc "The World is Ours" features exclusive songs from: Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Sizzla, Dead Prez, Papoose, Busy Signal, Saigon, Da Backwudz, Capleton, Luciano, and more.

"Queens DJ K-Salaam shows off his uncanny ability to blend the best parts of hip-hop on reggae on this star-studded effort. From dope hip-hop reggae collabos (Mos Def and Sizzla) to worthy solo efforts (Saigon, Talib Kweli), K-Salaam not only knows how to pick which artists to work with, he also brings out the best in them." --Scratch Magazine

"The Florida-based political rap duo Dead Prez consists of Sticman and M-1, a pair of rappers inspired by revolutionaries from Malcom X to Public Enemy. They immersed themselves in political and social studies as they forged their own style of hip-hop, which debuted on the Loud '97 Set Up tape "Food, Clothes and Shelter." They went on to work with Big Punisher on his 1998 album Capital Punishment and released singles like 1998's 'Police State With Chairman Omali' and 1999's "It's Bigger Than Hip-Hop." Their debut album, Lets Get Free, was released in early 2000. A two-volume mixtape project — Turn off the Radio: The Mixtape, Vol. 1 and Turn off the Radio: The Mixtape, Vol. 2: Get Free or Die Tryin' — followed in 2002 and 2003, boasting tracks and new productions, and their proper studio follow-up, RBG: Revolutionary But Gangsta, appeared in 2004." -Allmusic Guide

# # # #

Galapagos Art Space
70 North 6th Street
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
www.galapagosartspace.com

ESSENCE and Sean 'Diddy' Combs Kick Off New York's Fashion Week With BLACK STYLE NOW

Celebration of the Museum of the City of New York's Groundbreaking Exploration of Hip-Hop Style and the Black Fashion Revolution

Exhibition to Feature Attire and Accessories Worn by Celebrity Style Icons Beyonce, Sean 'Diddy' Combs, Sean 'Jay-Z' Carter, Lenny Kravitz, Lil' Kim, LL Cool J and Kimora Lee Simmons

NEW YORK, Aug. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- The Opening Gala for BLACK STYLE NOW will kick off New York's Fashion Week with a star-studded, black-carpet event on Friday, September 8, 2006, from 6:00pm to 11:00pm at the Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street. The exclusive celebration, in honor of the Museum of the City of New York's groundbreaking exploration of hip-hop style and the Black fashion revolution, is hosted by Sean 'Diddy' Combs.

As the first major American exhibition to explore Black fashion, BLACK STYLE NOW will feature examples of the attire, accessories, and looks that define contemporary fashion; including a strapless fuchsia, velvet gown worn by Lil' Kim to the 2005 Costume Institute Gala, an original wool-pinstripe suit worn by Sean 'Diddy' Combs to the 2006 CFDA Awards, and a custom-designed white and cranberry leather, monogrammed cap made for LL Cool J in the 1980's, to name a few. Opening on September 9, 2006, and running through February 19, 2007, the exhibition will present historic photos, video images and stylized vignettes to reveal how today's fashion is shaped by African-American style. Beyonce, Sean 'Diddy' Combs, Russell Simmons, Sean 'Jay-Z' Carter, LL Cool J, Kanye West, Lil' Kim and Andre 3000 are among the celebrities whose influence will be documented in BLACK STYLE NOW.

The BLACK STYLE NOW Opening Gala is a VIP party, offering a special preview of the BLACK STYLE NOW exhibition, which explores the history of African-American style and the influence of hip-hop on fashion and design. The BLACK STYLE NOW Opening Gala chairpersons, ESSENCE editorial director Susan L. Taylor, Sean 'Diddy' Combs and Museum of the City of New York President Susan Henshaw Jones, have assembled an illustrious event host committee, including Iman, John Dempsey, William P. Lauder, Susan Fales-Hill, Thelma Golden, Allison Whipple Rockefeller, and ESSENCE editor-in-chief Angela Burt-Murray, among others.

"ESSENCE is ecstatic to fete the opening of BLACK STYLE NOW, with a singular event uniting the entertainment industry with the fashion community to pay tribute to the history of Black style," said Michelle Ebanks, President of Essence Communications Inc. "Congratulations to the Museum of the City of New York for realizing its vision for BLACK STYLE NOW, a creative and pioneering exhibition reflective of the African-American experience, which ESSENCE proudly celebrates."

Commented Susan Henshaw Jones, President and Director of the Museum of the City of New York: "Much of the hip-hop phenomenon began in the streets of New York City, so it is fitting for the Museum of the City of New York to organize this groundbreaking exhibition. BLACK STYLE NOW will not only document the impact of the hip-hop style revolution on mainstream fashion, but will explore the contributions of African-American stylemakers throughout the twentieth century. The Museum is very grateful to Time Warner and to ESSENCE for making it possible for us to tell this story."

The Opening Gala for BLACK STYLE NOW is generously supported by platinum sponsor Macy's; gold sponsor Unforgivable by Sean John; fashion sponsors Akademiks, Rocawear and Sean John; bronze supporters Sony and Diet Pepsi Jazz; and VH1. BLACK STYLE NOW is funded by the Time Warner Foundation. ESSENCE magazine is the primary sponsor. Generous support has also been provided by Altria Group, Inc.

About ESSENCE:

With 7.7 million readers, ESSENCE is the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African-American women. Published by Essence Communications Inc., it is the leading source of cutting-edge information relating to every area of African-American women's lives. For 36 years, ESSENCE has celebrated personal achievement, chronicled social movement, documented struggles, showcased beauty, defined and set trends and illustrated the incredible journey of a resilient and splendid race. Additional information about ESSENCE is available at essence.com.

About the Museum of the City of New York:

The Museum of the City of New York presents and interprets the past, present, and future of New York City and celebrates its heritage of diversity, opportunity, and perpetual transformation. Founded in 1923 as a private, non-profit corporation, the Museum serves the people of New York and visitors from across the country and around the world through exhibitions, collections, publications, and school and public programs.

Source: ESSENCE magazine

CONTACT: Dana Baxter, +1-212-522-1634, dbaxter@essence.com or Sheila
Harris, +1-212-522-1089, sharris@essence.com, both of ESSENCE magazine

Web site: http://www.essence.com/

Diddy Signs With The Firm

NEW YORK, Aug. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Multi-talented impresario and pop culture icon Sean "Diddy" Combs has signed with managerial powerhouse The Firm for representation.

Diddy is currently gearing up for the release of his new album Press Play which drops October 17th on his own Bad Boy Records through the Atlantic label. The Firm and its entire team of managers will be working in tandem with Diddy and his team to further globalize the Diddy brand, paying special attention to Diddy's musical career as an artist and producer. Diddy will continue to be represented theatrically by Peter Safran.

"It is an honor and privilege for The Firm to be in business with Sean 'Diddy' Combs, a true pioneer in the world of entertainment," said Jeff Kwatinetz, CEO of The Firm. "He is an inspirational leader, a trendsetter in fashion, music and pop culture and a truly great artist. Whether it be as a producer, a musician, a performer, an actor or an entrepreneur, Diddy's unprecedented accomplishments are legendary. And, we believe that his best years and accomplishments are to come in the day's ahead. We look forward to helping build the Diddy brand worldwide, and are thrilled to be a part of Team Diddy. We are also excited to work hand-in-hand with his theatrical manager Peter Safran, as Diddy continues his expansion into film and TV."

"I am really looking forward to my partnership with The Firm, an artist friendly company known for putting its clients above all else, said Diddy. Jeff Kwatinetz, Peter Katsis, Constance Schwartz and the rest of the Firm have proven their abilities at guiding the careers of some of today's brightest and most talented artists. With The Firm on my team, I believe we will accomplish great success together."

Sean Combs, the CEO and founder of Bad Boy Worldwide Entertainment Group, is a multifaceted entertainment powerhouse. A Grammy-Award winning singer, actor, producer and fashion designer, he was recently declared one of "The 100 Most Influential People in the World" by Time Magazine for being a leader in the world of business. Combs oversees one of the world's preeminent urban entertainment companies, encompassing a broad range of businesses including recording, music publishing, artist management, television and film production, recording facility, apparel and restaurants.

The Firm, founded in 1997, currently represents such current chart-topping acts as Kelly Clarkson, Korn and Ice Cube as well as Cameron Diaz, Martin Scorsese, Taylor Hicks, Rachel Weisz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Snoop Dogg and Jennifer Lopez, among others.

Source: PMK-HBH Public Relations

CONTACT: Cindi Berger, or Jill Fritzo, or Bianca Bianconi, all of PMK-
HBH Public Relations, +1-212-582-1111

Volkswagen Has Gone 'Idlewild!!!'

- VW & Grammy Award Winning Artists OutKast to Host Advance Screenings & Listening Parties For New Movie & Soundtrack -

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Aug. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. has teamed up with Universal and hip-hop duo OutKast to host screenings of the film Idlewild and movie soundtrack listening parties in New York, Atlanta and Los Angeles. OutKast's Andre "Andre 3000" Benjamin and Antwan "Big Boi" Patton both star in the film. The listening parties will feature new sounds from the duo's next album, which also serves as the film's soundtrack. The album will include all new songs by OutKast and is set to release August 22nd -- three days before the movie hits theatres, August 25th.

In a continuous effort to reach out to the African-American community, this is the third Volkswagen Important People (VWIP) sponsored event of the year, NBA All*Star Weekend in Houston being the first, followed by Zo's Summer Groove in Miami.

"Volkswagen is extremely excited to partner with OutKast on what is sure to be a fabulous event. What's particularly exciting is the opportunity to connect with the African-American community," says Kenyatta Bynoe, Brand Marketing Manager, at Volkswagen.

Fans in each market will have the opportunity to become VWIP's and win tickets to the listening parties through radio call-ins. Volkswagen has aligned itself with the hottest Hip-Hop radio stations in each market. Stations will also broadcast live from the "blue" carpet.

In addition to consumers, invited guests include tastemakers, athletes and entertainers. The VWIP "blue" carpet events will feature complimentary shuttle service for select guests in each market. A fleet of 2006 Touaregs, Volkswagen's top-line SUV, will transport select VWIPs to and from the screenings and listening parties.

The screenings will run from 7:30-9:30 PM while the soundtrack album listening parties begin at 9:00 PM.

ATLANTA
Thursday, August 17th
Regal Atlantic Station Stadium 16
371 17th Street, Atlanta, GA 30363
LISTENING PARTY: eleven50, 1150b Peachtree St., Atlanta, GA 30309
Invited celebrity guests include: Boris Kodjoe, Ludacris, Bow Wow,
Cee-lo, Dallas Austin, Jermaine Dupri, Lyfe Jennings, Yung Joc,
Jason Weaver, Lil' Jon, T.I., Usher and India.Arie

LOS ANGELES
Saturday, August 19th
Harmony Gold Screening Room
7655 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90046
LISTENING PARTY: Memphis, 6541 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Invited celebrity guests include: Jane Fonda, Terrence Howard,
Ving Rhames, Faizon Love, Macy Gray, Malinda Williams, Paula Jai Parker,
Paula Patton, Eve, Nick Cannon, Anthony Anderson, Darrin Henson,
Danny Masterson, Hill Harper, Keenan Thompson, Regina King, Larenz Tate,
Sanaa Lathan, Ryan Phillipe, Shane West, Tracee Ellis Ross, Baron Davis,
Sam Cassell, Cuttino Mobley, Corey Maggette, Lamar Odom and Smush Parker

NEW YORK
Wednesday, August 23rd
Loews Kips Bay 15
570 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
LISTENING PARTY: Providence, 311 W. 57th St, New York, NY 10019
Invited celebrity guests include: Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, Jay-Z, 50 Cent,
Alicia Keys, Busta Rhymes, Carl Thomas, Chris Brown, DMX, Fabolous,
Fat Joe, Fonzworth Bentley, JoJo, Kevin Liles, LL Cool J., Lil' Kim,
Lupe Fiasco, Nina Sky, Olivia, Queen Latifah, Remy Ma, Rockwilder and
Tyson Beckford

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

CONTACT: Nicole Dye-Anderson, 215.525.1409, ndyeanderson@ad-itive.com

Stephen Winkler, 215.525.1407, swinkler@ad-itive.com

Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

CONTACT: Nicole Dye-Anderson, +1-215-525-1409,
ndyeanderson@ad-itive.com, or Stephen Winkler, +1-215-525-1407,
swinkler@ad-itive.com, both for Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Production & Shipment of Martian Colony's Atomic Cocktail Begins

COLUMBIA, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 17, 2006--Beere Financial Group, Inc. (Pink Sheets:BRFG), announced today that its subsidiary, Central Park North Records' famed Hip-Hop Group, Martian Colony, has in liaison with Hat Trick Beverage launched production and will ship over the next 5 - 7 days their new healthy fruit beverage "The Martian Colony Atomic Cocktail." The new offering is the first of its kind for Martian Colony and also for their beverage company, Hat Trick Beverage (Pink Sheets:HKBV).

Earlier this year, Hat Trick Beverage teamed up with emerging Indie band Martian Colony, who in addition to launching the in-store release of their album in June, already cracked the top ten of the AC/Hot AC Top 30 Indie Radio Chart. The group is currently charting on Urban Radio / Urban Crossover and is preparing for a Fall Tour. Central Park North Records is preparing a huge marketing campaign that will incorporate broadcast advertising along with the group's music and beverage.

Steve Amend of Martian Colony stated, "We are totally psyched about the release of our new drink and are working on different promotional ideas that will be introduced on our Website - http://www.MartianColony.net and our MYSPACE Page as well as http://www.youtube.com."

"Although the beverage is designed to appeal to a younger, urban demographic, the emerging Indie band, Martian Colony is already appealing to an even broader demographic (13-34), thus sales and popularity of the beverage are anticipated to span across this broader base. The band has been compared to The Black Eyed Peas as they cross the charts with a more mainstream sound," stated Rick Papaleo, CEO of Beere Financial Group, Inc.
Hat Trick Beverage produces and distributes three water-based beverages for the health-conscious active consumer. The Martian Colony Atomic Cocktail is the first in Hat Trick's Signature Series of beverages which are being developed based upon extensive market research and product development.

The Martian Colony Atomic Cocktail is a Kiwi-flavored beverage that contains an anti-hangover enzyme, making it an ideal mixer for the on-premise market as well as an intriguing entry into the functional beverage market that witnessed an 18% growth in the last year, posting $1.8 billion in sales (Source: SPINS San Francisco). In addition to the cross-merchandising opportunities presented by the relationship with the band, Hat Trick has also devised a unique package that incorporates a glow-in-the-dark label designed to highlight the unusual attributes of the product and to create an indelible impression upon its target demographic.

"This is the first of Hat Trick's `Signature Series' and we are excited about the new drink. The products will be reaching new markets in the upcoming months. Our launch of The Martian Colony Atomic Cocktail initiates the fulfillment of extensive market research and product development efforts," stated Larry Twombly, President and CEO of Hat Trick Beverage.
About Beere Financial Group, Inc.: Beere Financial Group, Inc. invests in emerging growth companies with market-ready products, strong management teams, and strategies for developing high-growth companies in well-defined markets.

Statements regarding financial matters in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The company intends that such statements about the Company's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, and all other forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. Since these statements (future operational results and sales) involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the Company's actual results may differ materially from expected results.

Contacts
For Beere Financial Group, Inc., Columbia
Investor Relations/Public Relations
Concept Communications Group, LLC
James Caldwell, 727-447-0514
jc@conceptcg.com
or
Beere Financial Group Inc.
Rick Papaleo, admin@beerfin.com

2006 Video Music Awards Sponsors Superserve Key 12-34 Demographic With Creative Integration and Multiplatform Innovation

The 2006 VMAs to Live On-Air, Online, and on Mobile on August 31st from Radio City Music Hall in New York City

NEW YORK, N.Y., Aug. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- MTV: Music Television today announced that the official sponsors for the 2006 Video Music Awards will once again push the creative envelope prior to and during the big show on multiple platforms reaching the key 12-34 demographic on more screens than ever before. The official sponsors, which include Acuvue Brand Contact Lenses, Chevrolet, Herbal Essences, JCPenney, Pepsi, Taco Bell and Virgin Mobile USA, will fully integrate messaging into the VMAs creating a seamless multiplatform experience for viewers and users.

"Our audience experiences entertainment on multiple platforms so we are making the 2006 VMAs a multi-screen, interactive experience that will give them more access to the VMAs on more platforms than ever before," said Christina Norman, President, MTV. "This year the experience will be truly groundbreaking with a live alternate feed of the big show available on MTV Overdrive, giving fans a first ever live behind the scenes view of the VMAs."

"We are fortunate to have a line up of sponsor partners that understand multiplatform programming and know how to reach our audience in new creative ways on air, online, on the ground and on their mobile phones," said Sean Moran, EVP, MTV 360 Brand Sales. "We are working closely with all of our sponsors to create a seamless entertainment experience that will further solidify our leadership position in this rapidly evolving space."

Following is a breakdown of the multiplatform sponsor activities for the 2006 Video Music Awards:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, and MTV's "Break the Addiction" campaign are partnering around the 2006 VMAs to help educate viewers on E85 ethanol technology in an effort to raise awareness about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and curbing dependence on fossil fuels. Chevy will be providing a customized fleet of 60 Flex Fuel E85 compatible vehicles for the VMAs that will be specifically branded to promote the show as well as GM's Flex Fuel technology. The fleet of MTV Video Music Award E85 Chevrolet vehicles will be used to transport talent and guests around New York City including arrival at the red carpet on August 31. Once the fleet of VMA-branded E85 vehicles has completed their VMA mission they will be made available for sale to the general public. Beyond the fleet, Chevrolet will also debut a customized Tahoe Concept, provide in-program content (Chevy will present the pre-show Top of the Rock concert and provide the "Chevy Fly-Cam" with aerial shots of red carpet arrivals) and present on-line/off-line advertising.

First time sponsor JCPenney is pulling out the stops in their multiplatform VMA support this year with an online, on-air, radio, on the ground, and in-store campaign. The campaign began in July with the VMA Insider Contest and Tour. Fans logged on to www.jcpenney.mtv.com to upload videos explaining why they wanted to be a JCP VMA Insider or stopped by the JCP VMA Insider five-market mall tour where live auditions were held to find the two lucky winners of the prize of a lifetime -- an appearance on MTV and an all-expense paid trip to New York City to attend the VMAs, walk the red carpet with the stars and report on events and parties -- footage that will air on MTV Overdrive. Winners will also appear on MTV's hit show, "The Big 10." The JCPenney/VMA campaign also includes email blasts, radio spots, back to school tune-in advertising, in-store VMA creative, online integration and more.

MTV has created an original multiplatform advertising campaign for the Herbal Essences partnership around the VMAs this year that features Parker, the newest "It Girl" on the block. The five part serialized campaign will live on MTV and extend to MTV Overdrive prior to the show to introduce viewers to Parker. Then during the pre and main shows, viewers will be on the look out for Parker as she appears on-air throughout the night. Viewers can then log on to MTV Overdrive to continue their search for Parker before going to a customized Herbal Essences/VMA micro-site to enter to win tickets to the 2007 VMAs by identifying where they saw our Herbal Essences "It Girl" during the show. The Herbal Essences/VMA micro-site will also serve as an online viral community for fans; allowing them to view extended versions of the ads, share photos, create new virtual hair styles for themselves, and more.

Charter sponsor Pepsi is taking their Viewer's Choice Award sponsorship to multiple screens by creating a personalized experience for viewers online, on- air, and on customized viewing screens during the pre-show. Pepsi is currently presenting the online VMA Karaoke contest where fans can submit videos to pepsivma.mtv.com of themselves singing a VMA nominated song. The winner of the karaoke contest will host their own show on MTV Overdrive, walk the red carpet, appear on MTV's The Big Ten the week of the VMAs, and get tickets for the show. Pepsi will also be bringing customized screens to fans during the pre-show this year that will both entertain and engage viewers for the Viewer's Choice Award.

In their third year of VMA sponsorship, Acuvue Brand Contact Lenses are mining MTV's rich history and catalog of VMA content to present an exclusive MTV and MTV Overdrive show titled "VMA Defining Moments" Presented by Acuvue Brand Contact Lenses which extends and elevates their multiplatform defining moments marketing campaign. The special will take viewers through the most memorable, "defining" moments from past show performances, acceptance speeches, and more. In addition to the show, Acuvue and MTV are engaging teens around the defining moments platform through other marketing elements such as a retail promotion that provides Acuvue consumers with exclusive VMA content and a consumer contest. Fans can now get into the VMA action by logging on to acuvue.mtv.com to submit stories on their own Acuvue triggered "defining moments." The winning story writer will win hot ticket prizing including starring in a VMA spot to air during the actual show on MTV.

The VMAs have an entirely new awards category this year for Ringtone of the Year and Virgin Mobile is the presenting sponsor. Fans can vote for their favorite ringtone via Virgin wireless phones or through vma.mtv.com, with the winning ringtone revealed live during the VMAs and available for free download, exclusively to Virgin Mobile users, the day after the show. Virgin is also the exclusive mobile vote carrier for the Viewer's Choice Award this year and will be offering fans exclusive VMA branded mobile content including ringtones, wallpaper, graphics, mobile alerts, and more.

Jack Black is set to host the big show on August 31st and the line up of performers includes Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, T.I., Panic! At The Disco, Ludacris and The Killers. In addition The Raconteurs will provide the soundtrack for the VMA's live throughout the show. Additional performers and presenters will be announced shortly.

The 2006 MTV Video Music Awards will be available to a potential viewing audience of more than 1.3 billion people via MTV's global network of 50 channels reaching 481.5 million households around the world as well as through syndication. Its convergent and original online programming will reach the entire interactive community, via MTV's 43 Web sites around the world.

Salli Frattini and Dave Sirulnick are the Executive Producers for the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards. Ian Stewart and Summer Strauch are Producers. Hamish Hamilton is Producer/Director. Kathy Flynn is Event Producer.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV

CONTACT: Graham James, MTV, +1-212-846-8911, graham.james@mtvstaff.com

Web site: http://vma.mtv.com/
http://www.jcpenney.mtv.com/
http://pepsivma.mtv.com/
http://acuvue.mtv.com/
http://www.mtv.com/

Sexy Tyrese Gibson & Meagan Good Lead an Adrenaline-Fueled Non-Stop Thrill Ride Through the Violent and Dangerous Streets of L.A.

'Waist Deep'

Coming to DVD With Exclusive Bonus Features October 10, 2006 From Universal Studios Home Entertainment

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Aug. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Tyrese Gibson ("Four Brothers," "2 Fast 2 Furious") in a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde story ignites an explosive Los Angeles crime wave in a desperate race to save a child's life in Rogue Pictures' "Waist Deep," coming to DVD on October 10, 2006 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. The sizzling cast of this riveting contemporary action thriller includes Meagan Good ("Roll Bounce," "Brick"), Larenz Tate ("Crash," "Ray") and multi-platinum rapper The Game, in his feature film debut. Director and writer Vondie Curtis Hall ("Redemption: The Stan 'Tookie' Williams Story") has created a hard-hitting thriller with enough attitude and suspense to keep viewers on the edge of their seats straight through to the spectacular finale. The DVD is loaded with pulse-pounding bonus features and an off-the-hook soundtrack featuring the hottest new songs from some of today's most popular music artists.

"Waist Deep" is the gripping story of a man in a desperate race against the clock to save his young son. Ex-con O2 (Tyrese Gibson) is a single father trying to make good for the sake of his son. When his vehicle is carjacked with his boy inside, O2 must forsake the law to rescue his son from his kidnapper -- a ruthless drug lord (The Game) who has a penchant for lopping off limbs. Determined to rescue his child, O2 will try anything, even if it means igniting an all-out gang war. The DVD is priced at $29.98.

Bonus Features Will Blow You Away!

"Waist Deep" pumps up the non-stop action with electrifying, exclusive-to-DVD extras and knockout bonus features, including:

* Going Deep: Analysis of a Scene -- Follow the intense preparation for
the crucial car-jacking scene. "Waist Deep" director Vondie Curtis
Hall works with the film's star, stunt coordinator and director of
photography to choreograph the heart-stopping action.

* Drive-By Filmmaking -- An insider's look at the techniques used by
filmmakers to create heart-pumping driving scenes and death-defying
chases.

* "Bad Girl" -- Black Buddafly teams up with hip-hop royalty Fabolous in
this dazzling music video.

* Plus exclusive additional scenes not shown in theaters!

Synopsis

Locked and loaded with action, "Waist Deep" is an explosive thrill ride featuring Tyrese Gibson as O2, an ex-con who's trying to go straight. His life takes a deadly turn when his son gets kidnapped in a carjacking and held for ransom by a ruthless druglord (The Game). With a street-smart hustler (Meagan Good) as his partner and his shady cousin (Larenz Tate) in the mix, O2 races through the violent streets of Los Angeles in a desperate attempt to outsmart rival gangs and save his son.

For more information please visit: www.waistdeep.net

CAST & FILMMAKERS
Director: Vondie Curtis Hall
Written By: Vondie Curtis Hall and Darin Scott; Story by Michael Mahern
Produced By: Preston Holmes
Executive Producers: Ted Field, Trevor Macy, Marc D. Evans, Russell
Simmons, Stan Lathan, Amy Kaufman, A. Demetrius Brown
Director of Photography: Shane Hurlbut
Production Designer: Warren Alan Young
Film Editor: Terilyn A. Shropshire
Costume Designer: Marie France
Music By: Kon Artis, Terence Blanchard
Cast: Tyrese Gibson, Meagan Good, Larenz Tate, The Game

TECHNICAL INFORMATION
DVD
Street Date: October 10, 2006
Copyright: 2006 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Price: $29.98
Selection Number: 26558 (Widescreen); 31212 (Full Frame)
Running Time: 1 Hour 37 Minutes
Layers: Dual Layer
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1; Full Frame 1.33:1
Rating: R
Technical Info: Dolby Digital 5.1; English SDH, Spanish and French
Subtitles

For artwork or screeners, please log on to our Web site at www.ushepublicity.com or fax your request to Universal Studios Home Entertainment Publicity at (818) 866-0226.

Universal Studios Home Entertainment is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric and 20% owned by Vivendi.

CONTACTS

Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Vivian Mayer
Senior Vice President, Publicity
(818) 777-3594

Lea Porteneuve
Vice President, Publicity
(818) 777-1391

Craig Radow
Senior Manager, Publicity
(818) 777-4572

http://www.waistdeep.net/

Source: Universal Studios Home Entertainment

CONTACT: Vivian Mayer, Senior Vice President, Publicity,
+1-818-777-3594, or Lea Porteneuve, Vice President of Publicity,
+1-818-777-1391, or Craig Radow, Senior Manager, Publicity, +1-818-777-4572,
all of Universal Studios Home Entertainment

Web site: http://www.waistdeep.net/

Web site: http://www.ushepublicity.com/

Web site: http://www.universalstudios.com/

Clear Channel Radio Adds HD Digital Multicasts to 18 More Markets

SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 17, 2006--Clear Channel (NYSE:CCU)

-- Brings Total to 66 Markets and 269 Stations

Clear Channel Radio today announced that a full 269 of its radio stations in 66 markets are set to air HD digital multicasts. These additional stations represent the third wave of a larger launch begun in January. The new channels will also be made available at the company's HD2 streaming site www.clearchannelmusic.com/hdradio/ as they go live.

In each local market, Clear Channel Radio's HD2 multicasts either complement existing on-air programming or bring entirely new music or spoken-word genres to local listeners. In some cases, local programmers will draw from programming created by the Format Lab within the company's Content Research & Development Group. In other cases, the channels are programmed fully locally.

Clear Channel Radio already has 300 stations offering their primary broadcasts in HD digital quality. HD digital radio broadcasts will air on 95% of Clear Channel Radio stations in the top 100 markets by the end of 2007 underlying the company's commitment to the aggressive roll out of HD digital radio. The company is also a founding member of the HD Digital Radio Alliance -- a joint initiative of leading radio companies to accelerate the roll-out of HD digital radio -- and is devoting on-air promotion time as part of an industry-wide marketing effort.

Below is a list of the HD2 multicast formats that will be available from Clear Channel Radio stations in each local market:

Market Station Current Format HD2 Channel

Jacksonville, FL
WFKS-FM CHR NEW! CHR
WJBT-FM Urban Urban Classic Hip Hop
WPLA-FM Active Rock Indie Rock
WQIK-FM Country Classic Country Foggy
Mountain
WROO-FM Country New!
WSOL-FM UAC Hallelujah

Raleigh, NC
WDCG-FM CHR/Pop New HITS
WRDU-FM Classic Rock Deep Classic Rock
WRSN-FM AC Smooth Jazz
WRVA-FM Classic Hits AC Variety

Louisville, KY
WAMZ-FM Country Country Variety
WLUE-FM Adult Hits (Variety) Party Music Classics
WQMF-FM Classic Rock Live Channel
WTFX-FM Active Rock Metal Shop
WZKF-FM CHR/Pop Hispanic Urban

Richmond, VA
WTVR-FM AC Smooth Jazz
WBTJ-FM Urban Urban Mixes
WRVQ-FM CHR/Pop 80's Hits
WRXL-FM Alternative Rock AAA

Honolulu, HI
KSSK-FM AC Mainstream Country
KUCD-FM Alternative Rock Smooth Jazz
KDNN-FM CHR/Hawaiian News/Talk
KIKI-FM CHR/Rhythmic Electronica

Albany, NY
WHRL-FM Alternative Classic Alternative
WKKF-FM CHR/Pop KISS POP
WPYX-FM Classic Rock Vinyl Vineyard
WRVE-FM Hot AC AAA
WTRY-FM Oldies Smooth Jazz

Austin, TX
KASE-FM Country Country - All New
KFMK-FM Rhythmic Oldies Spanish - Oldies
KHFI-FM CHR/Pop CHR - All New
KPEZ-FM Religious - Religious - Christian
Christian AC CHR
KVET-FM Country Country - Rock'n
Country

West Palm, FL
WKGR-FM Rock - Classic Rock Rock - Variety
WLDI-FM CHR/Pop Other - Workout
Channel
WOLL-FM Classic Hits AC - Rhythmic Hits
WRLX-FM AC/Soft Jazz - Jazz Variety
WZZR-FM Talk Comedy

Rochester, NY
WDVI-FM AC/Hot Rock - AAA
WFXF-FM Rock - Classic Rock Rock - Deep Rock
Tracks
WVOR-FM AC AC - All 70's
WKGS-FM CHR/Pop CHR - All New
WNVE-FM Active Rock Rock - Classic
Alternative

Greensboro, NC
WGBT-FM Spanish Oldies Spanish - Urban
(hits)
WMAG-FM AC Jazz - Smooth Jazz
WTQR-FM Country Country - All New
WVBZ-FM Rock Rock - Variety
WFMX-FM Urban AC Urban - Variety

Greenville, SC
WMYI-FM AC AC - Hot AC
WESC-FM Country Country - Americana
WSSL-FM Country Religious - Christian
AC
WBZT-FM Urban Urban - Old School
Hip Hop

Fort Meyers, FL
WBTT-FM CHR/Rhythmic Urban - Urban Variety
WCKT-FM Country Country - Classic
WOLZ-FM Oldies Oldies - Party Music
WZJZ-FM Jazz - Smooth Jazz Jazz - Variety

Nashville, TN
WNRQ-FM Rock - Classic Rock Rock - Deep Tracks
WRVW-FM CHR/Pop CHR - All New
WSIX-FM Country Country - All New
WUBT-FM Urban Jazz - Smooth Jazz

New Orleans, LA
KHEV-FM Gospel Religious - Christian
AC
WNOE-FM Country Country - All New
WQUE-FM Urban Urban - All New
WRNO-FM Talk News - ReNews
WYLD-FM Urban AC Smooth Jazz

Tucson, AZ
KRQQ-FM CHR/Pop Country - All New
KOHT-FM CHR/Rhythmic Urban - Old School
Hip Hop
KTZR-FM Spanish Oldies Spanish - Tejano
KWMT-FM Triple A Jazz - Smooth Jazz

Oklahoma City, OK
KHBZ-FM Alternative Rock Rock - Indie
KJYO-FM CHR/Pop CHR - All New
KTST-FM Country News - Re-News
KXXY-FM Country Country - Classic

About Clear Channel Radio
Clear Channel Radio is a leading radio company focused on serving local communities across the U.S. with more than 110 million listeners choosing Clear Channel Radio programming each week. The company's content can be heard on AM/FM stations, HD digital radio channels, on the Internet, via iPods, through Motorola's iRadio cell-phone service, and via mobile-navigation devices from Cobra, Garmin, Kenwood and others. The company's operations include radio broadcasting, syndication and independent media representation. Clear Channel Radio is a division of Clear Channel Communications, Inc. (NYSE:CCU), a leading global media and entertainment company. More information on the company can be found at www.clearchannel.com.

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Contacts
Clear Channel Radio, San Antonio
Sanda Coyle, 210-822-2828
sandacoyle@clearchannel.com
or
Brainerd Communicators
Jennifer Gery or Michelle Radvansky, 212-986-6667
gery@braincomm.com
radvansky@braincomm.com

DJ JAZ: OFFICIAL DJ FOR THE 2006 UNDERGROUND MUSIC AWARDS

DJ Jaz Does it Again!

Experienced DJ, DJ Jaz, will be on the 1s and 2s for the third time at the Underground Music Awards (UMAs), on August, 20th,2006.  

At the UMAs Jaz will be spinning the latest music from those nominated, and many more. The 4th annual Underground Music Awards will be held at New York's, B.B Kings. This musical extravaganza will be hosted by Mad Links of BET. Special Guest of the evening include, M.O.P, Ralph MC Daniels, Remy Ma, and Red Alert.

 As of today, his resume includes, Club Speed (NYC), The Tunnel (NYC), the world famous Cotton Club, The ASCAP Music Awards, The Sugar Hill Gang Tour, The Crash Crew Reunion tour, and The Philly All-Star Game At Club Shampoo which featured Jamie Foxx and BET's, "106 &Park" Host, Free and a plethora of other major events and showcases in the NYC Metropolitan area. DJ Jaz continues to rock the 1s and 2s showing many the skills that it takes to be successful.  

If you'd like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with DJ Jaz please call Tarah Young at 347.756.4332 e-mail Tarah at Effervescentglam@gmail.com

CONTROVERSIAL DEATH ROW INMATE MUMIA ABU JAMAL FEATURED IN NEW CD

Philadelphia, PA - August 17, 2006 -- Respect The Culture, LLC, a
Philadelphia-based record label and multi-media company, has released
Nex
Millen/Retrospective's debut solo album, "Who is Mumia Abu Jamal?"
The new
CD features the spoken word of controversial death row inmate and
political
prisoner Mumia Abu Jamal.

Nex Millen’s alternative, soulful beats accompany the spoken word of
Jamal,
recorded from death row at Huntingdon State Prison and S.C.I. Greene.
The
album also includes guest appearances by Assata Shakur, Allen Ginsberg
&
Jello Biafra.

“A diversion from the smooth rhyme style featured in Nex
Millen/Retrospective’s work with former groups, Souls of the Lost
Elements
and the Group of Pimps, Millen’s latest effort features his skillful
production and a message in his music – the message of death row inmate
Mumia Abu Jamal,” said the album’s Executive Producer Marci Krufka.
“From
the haunting keyboards of ‘To Be Like Malcolm, A Message To Mumia’ to
the
funky, up-tempo sound of ‘A Bright Shining Hell’ to the subtle
scratching in
‘Statement of the Facts’ and ‘Legalized Crime’ to the moving strings of
‘The
Depth of Our Courage,’ Millen’s beats artfully support the powerful
lyrics
without detracting from the purpose of the piece – to allow listeners
to
hear the voice of Jamal and his supporters – many for the first time.”

Nex Millen/Retrospective is a Philadelphia-born artist, producer and
DJ. He
is a co-founder of Camden, New Jersey-based Breakbread Projects and a
member
the critically-acclaimed group Nuthouse. Millen has performed across
the
United States and throughout Europe and was the Music Coordinator for
the
Digable Planets 2005 Reunion Tour UK. He has released several
recordings
with former groups, produced numerous singles, albums and mix tapes for
other artists and was the Music Supervisor for the very successful And1
B-ball mix tapes.

Mumia Abu Jamal is an award-winning journalist who exposed police
violence
against minority communities. Imprisoned in 1982 for the alleged
murder of
a Philadelphia policeman, Jamal maintains his innocence, citing the
lack of
evidence, racial bias in jury selection, improper tactics by the
prosecution
and ineffective counsel from the public defender at trial as well as
new
forensic and other evidence in his defense.

During his twenty plus years of incarceration, Jamal has published
numerous
recorded and written essays regarding his political and social beliefs
via
www.prisonradio.org. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of this
CD
will be donated to The International Concerned Friends & Family of
Mumia Abu
Jamal.

Respect the Culture LLC is a Philadelphia-based record label and
multimedia
company, featuring hip hop and other artists, local events and
performances
via its subsidiary CultureNights, and a clothing line, CultureWear,
featuring original apparel with a spiritually and socially conscious
message.

“Who is Mumia Abu Jamal?” is available for purchase at
www.cdbaby.com/cd/nexmillen, ITunes, Rhapsody, MSN Music, Sony
Connect,
Verizon Wireless and other music sites online as well as in retail
stores in
the tri-state area.

For a promotional copy of the CD (press only) or for more information
contact Marci Krufka at Respect the Culture at 610-550-9705 or
UltraVibeusa1@gmail.com.

FUELED BY THEIR RUNAWAY RADIO HIT "VANS," BAY AREA THE PACK ARE SET TO TAKE "HYPHY" NATIONWIDE

"It's a punk rock shoe with the logo on the back" -
raps Young L on "Vans"

With the anticipated release of The Pack's national debut - the self titled full-length cd featuring Too $hort, Keak da Sneak, Mr. F.A.B., Jody Breeze of Boyz N Da Hood, and The Team, on Too $hort's new Up All Nite Music label - the prolific young East Bay rap quartet (Lil Uno, Young L, Lil B, & Stunna whose ages range from 16 to 18) look destined to take the hip-hop nation by storm and further elevate the Bay Area's 'hyphy' movement firmly into the national spotlight. Complete with wall-to-wall 'slumpers' (hits) such as "Vans" (already creating a strong buzz on the Left Coast with stations in California, Portland, and Washington all following the Bay Area's KMEL lead and quickly expanding to Miami and Atlanta), "Ice Cream”, " Dum Diddy Dum " and "Booty Bounce Bopper" - "Vans" showcases the fierce, hypnotic flow of the four teen-aged emcees who perfectly play off each other with a nearly matching deep bass vocal assault and a unique group style - all delivered over The Pack's rich anthemic tracks courtesy of the crew's production wiz Young L.

Too $hort, who accurately describes the Bay Area's wild-party-fueled hip-hop "hyphy" phenomenon as "a first cousin to crunk music," discovered the super-talented young Berkeley group last summer on a trip back from Atlanta to his native East Bay. Although the group (then known as Wolf Pack) were only six short months together, the music veteran recognized their potential and was also most impressed with their work ethic (already they had two regional CDs out) so he offered to take them under his wing, and sign them to his new Up All Nite record label/collective. For The Pack connecting with their rap hero was a dream come true. "Too $hort taking us under his wing has been a real blessing," said producer/emcee Young L. "His influence has made us better in all ways. I even focus more on my college work thanks to $hort," said the firs t-year business student at San Francisco State University. "But how Too $hort stumbled upon our music is a trip," added Lil Uno telling the story of how $hort accidentally happened to overhear the group's music booming out of someone's car in West Oakland one day last July and (in true blue ear-to-the-street A&R form) stopped the other car and inquired about what they were bumping in their ride.

Since then things have moved swiftly for The Pack with them doing lots of shows (including a big one at Kaiser Auditorium with such stars as E 40) and busily recording new tracks (solo and collaborations) in both the East Bay and Atlanta. When they signed to Up All Nite Music they also officially became a part of the Up All Nite crew along with Too $hort and Atlanta's up-and-coming Murda Mob (comprised of freestyle master Booski, female emcee Lil Red, and Young Bay who was formerly known as Baby DC). As part of the Up All Nite Crew they've already appeared on both the April 2006 CD "Gangsters and Strippers Vol. 1" and on the up coming Fall 2006 CD "Lay it Down" that was released in conjunction with Too $hort's DVD "Pimpin' Incorporated." They've also recorded several other tracks with Too $hort including "At It Again" which appeared on their underground CD "Wolf Pack Music Vol. 1" and "Lite It" which appeared on another limited-edition release: their "Mixtape Vol. 1." To date they have two street albums (Wolf Pack Music Vol. 1 and Vol. 2) and two mix CDs "Wolf Pack Mixtape Vols 1 & 2" which are unique in that they contain music exclusively by group themselves.

In terms of sheer talent and charisma, The Pack have drawn comparisons to another young crew - Atlanta hitmakers Boyz N Da Hood. Coincidentally Jody Breeze of the Bad Boy signed group is a big fan of The Pack and even makes a cameo on "Get Off My Beanie." However longtime Too $hort studio engineer/production collaborator Taj Mahal Tilghman, who is Up All Nite Music's general manager and project coordinator, doesn't like to draw any comparisons to The Pack. "They're totally unique," he said. "And they embody the whole essence of the 'hyphy' sound and style with their energetic crazy party personalities and all that shines through in their delivery and their lyrics." "Organized madness" is how Taj perfectly sums up The Pack's instantly spellbinding 'hyphy' assault - something that is distinguished by their bass intoned flows which is peppered with their own slanguage and slightly varying individual styles. Lil B, for example, sounds like he's intoxicated when he flows. "I spit l like a loogey and it hurt like a rock," laughs Lil Uno of his style, paraphrasing one of his rhymes.

The Pack's sheer appeal is evident from the overwhelming positive phone response that all the radio stations have been receiving everytime they play the future sneaker anthem "Vans" off the album of the same name. As Young L notes in the hook-filled song "Vans" - "It's a punk rock shoe with the logo on the back." "We love shoes....We're like some fashion icons," adds Lil B. Stunna admits that all four members are "obsessed with sneakers." In fact it was in a shoe store that he first crossed paths with Lil Uno.

Ladies and gentlemen, meet the hip-hop nation's next big act: The Pack.

and visit the following websites:
www.upallnitemusic.com
www.myspace.com/wolfpackmusik
www.myspace.com/upallnitemusic

For more information, pls call Roberta Magrini at 212-824-1240 or Roberta.Magrini@jiverecords.com

Kotori Magazine Merges With GetUnderground.com

Influential Culture Magazine KOTORI joins forces with major online underground culture website GetUnderground.com in historically influential merger!

GetUnderground.com - Creative Resistance Designed for the Emancipation of the Human Spirit. The major underground culture portal began by Shlomo Sher back in 2000 has done nothing but grow. There aren't very many people in the global community of artists, musicians, poets, and progressive thinkers that haven't heard of GetUnderground.com. With over 2 million hits per month and a subscriber base of over 25,000 people, it has been a major asset in pushing forward ideas that will push us forward.

Kotori Magazine - Future Music Art Politics Culture. Founded in 2003 by Wasim Muklashy, who has been writing for GetUnderground.com since 2002 and has served as the site's Music Editor since 2003, with Kotori, he wanted to provide a venue for progressive music art politics and culture, and felt the need to take the challenge of piercing the conservative veil in his efforts to push the magazine into major outlets including Borders, Tower, and Barnes&Nobles. After everything from near legal suits with a certain unnamed media conglomerate and uncharacteristically and unintentionally finding ourselves in the middle of the mountains chanting foreign words surrounded by coyotes and a sweatlodge on a recent New Years Eve...it happened.

And now, the two are officially married!!!

So there's going to be some changes coming, including a redesign and format, and will be integrating various multimedia formats including audio and video in the coming months. The focus and the goals will always be the same...to promote true quality and positively progressive culture. So bear with them as they ease you into a new era. It's going to be worth it!! This partnership only solidifies Kotori's online presence as well as GetUnderground.com's continual exponential growth. Things are about to get crazy!!!

In the meantime, show them that you support what they're doing and show the world that its what you want. Go out and buy the latest issue of Kotori...check it: NOFX's Fat Mike goes off on Bush!, Cut Chemist, The Fiery Furnaces, Danger Mouse, DJ Krush, Rob Zombie, part 1 of a disturbing expose on Clear Channel, Top Investigative journalist Greg Palast kills the rich, and much more!! Help them make a name that will be heard and recognized so all your beautiful progressive and positive ideas can move forward and take this planet into a different direction from what the powers that be tell us is the only way. We know its not. Show them you mean business!! With your help and efforts, this merger will demonstrate to them that the tides are changing...and finally...for the better!

It's our turn!!!

Peace!

Wasim Muklashy
KOTORI Magazine
http://www.kotorimag.com/
310-876-0490

A New Luxury: The Event Decorator

P. Diddy, Jennifer Lopez, Lakshmi Mittal, Britney Spears, and Donald Trump are just a few names that spent millions on Event Decorators this past year.

(PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- P. Diddy, Jennifer Lopez, Lakshmi Mittal, Britney Spears, and Donald Trump are just a few names that spent millions on Event Decorators this past year.

As an event planner, I love bringing brides to Sachi, she makes each bride feel important and listens carefully to their ideas before planning something that submerges the clients ideas with her own expertise. RHN has picked the right company and the right person to help showcase their brand successfully. I believe this rare partnership will be very rewarding for both sides. Event Decorators are a new breed of service providers, they consist of designers who have the knowledge of interior décor, graphic arts, specialty lighting, and floral design, creating innovative, and endlessly talked about events. Partyland Flowers & Event Decorators are a pioneering members of the event decor community.

On August 16, 2006, Sachi Sood, former executive of The Real Hip-Hop Network (RHN) will officially take charge as the ‘Chief Visionary Officer’ for Partyland Flowers & Event Décor. With her, Sood is bringing an exclusive, unprecedented Multi-Million Dollar Contract from her former employers, The Real Hip Hop Network (RHN), pertaining towards a new partnership.

RHN's Founder and CEO, Atonn Muhammad says, "As our former Chief Marketing Officer, Sachi Sood helped shape the image & brand identity for RHN. I believe strongly, RHN can enhance its success by engaging PF&ED [Partyland Flowers & Event Decorators to create memorable events for our celebrity clientele. In the entertainment business ‘image is not everything, it’s the only thing’ Ms. Soods creativity, vision, and planning, ensures a spectacle that turns events into legend. Our TV network shares a market with tough competitors MTV/VH-1/ BET, and that’s why we need an edge. Building an alliance with PF&ED is a way we feel we can stand apart and make a strong statement."

PF&ED, owners Anshu Mala, & Sunita Sood released a statement earlier this week, "We are very happy to have Sachi on board; she is inspired, energetic and brings new blood to our 18 year old company."

"As an event planner, I love bringing brides to Sachi, she makes each bride feel important and listens carefully to their ideas before planning something that submerges the clients ideas with her own expertise. RHN has picked the right company and the right person to help showcase their brand successfully. I believe this rare partnership will be very rewarding for both sides." says, Sara Franklin of Northern Virginia Bridal.

Partyland Flowers & Event Décor is one of the pioneers of Event Décor, an 18 year old event decorating company that specializes in flowers, lighting, props, designing, and décor.

The Real Hip-Hop Network is an innovative yet independent television channel, already in 30 million homes.

Sachi Sood
Partyland Flowers & Event Decorators
http://www.partylandflowers.com/
240-506-0334

BET and Comcast Top Excellence in Multi-Cultural Marketing Award Winners

ESPN Deportes and Cableworld Partner With NAMIC to Present 2006 EMMA Competition

NEW YORK, Aug. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Winners of the 2006 Excellence In Multi- Cultural Marketing Awards (EMMA) competition were announced today by the National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC). Recognizing the best and most innovative multi-cultural marketing campaigns, the awards will be presented on Monday, September 11, 2006 at a special session of the 20th Annual NAMIC Conference. New York's historic Waldorf- Astoria will be the site for this year's three-day conference taking place September 10-12, 2006.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060705/NYW092LOGO )

BET led all winning networks with 4 wins, including first place finishes in 3 categories. Comcast garnered a total of 3 wins and 2 first place honors. Additional first place winners include Adlink, Cablevision, GMA Network, HBO, ImagianAsianTV, Nickelodeon, Time Warner Cable, TuTV and Univision Television Group.

"As the economic influence of Hispanics, African Americans, Asians and other ethnic groups continues to expand, these key demographics are critical to the long term financial success of our industry," said Kathy Johnson, president, NAMIC, Inc. "It is more important than ever to recognize companies that demonstrate a commitment to developing innovative strategies to reach these burgeoning consumer groups."

The first-of-its-kind, the competition was established as the NAMIC Excellence Awards in 1992 to recognize marketing and public affairs initiatives targeting multi-ethnic consumers. In 2004, the competition was renamed Excellence in Multicultural Marketing Awards and was expanded to include case studies competition. The awards competition now serves as the model for a variety of comparable programs.

ESPN Deportes, the 24-hour Spanish-language sports network serving Latino sports fans in the U.S. and CableWorld, a publication of Access Intelligence's Cable Group are serving as co-presenting sponsor and official media partner, respectively.

"ESPN Deportes shares NAMIC's vision and passion for establishing platforms that generate awareness of the important role that multi-ethnic consumers play in our industry," said Lino Garcia, general manager, ESPN Deportes. "We are delighted to continue this valuable association with NAMIC as an official sponsor of this year's EMMA initiative."

Recognizing the cable industry's commitment to developing creative approaches to multicultural and ethnic-targeted marketing, the 2006 program is comprised of two elements: Case Studies/Campaigns and Marketing Tactics. Awards will be presented in a broad spectrum of categories such as Direct Mail, Internet/New Media, Print, Radio, Television, Grassroots & Guerilla and Out of Home. Campaigns developed for the cable and telecommunications industry and submitted for entry were comprised of one or more cultural segments, such as African American, Asian, and Hispanic markets. Entries were evaluated on elements such as sound and innovative strategy, strength of creative execution against the strategy, evaluations of strategy, and implementation and results. Deviating from the traditional "best of" competition method, each entry was judged against a standard of excellence and not against other entrants.

Seth Arenstein, editor, CableWorld and editorial director/assistant vice- president, Access Intelligence, added: "The renewal of our longstanding commitment to this program allows us to continue generating increased awareness for this very relevant awards competition."

To register for the 20th Annual NAMIC Conference, obtain sponsorship information or learn more about the EMMA competition visit http://www.namic.com/ or call the NAMIC national headquarters at (212) 594-5985.

2006 Excellence In Multi-Cultural Marketing Awards - Complete Winners List:

Category: Case Study Cable

1st Place
Natalie Rouse
Ethnic Marketing Manager
Comcast

Comcast San Francisco Bay Area GMA Pinoy TV Launch - A Filipino Success Story

2nd Place
Kier Kristensen
Marketing Manager
West Bay Market/Northern California Region/Comcast
On-Site Interactive Marketing

Category: Case Study Network

1st Place
Ariel Nerubay
VP, Marketing & Sales
TuTV
TuTV Marketing Promotions Program

2nd Place
Jasmine Rezai
VP, Affiliate Marketing
Univision Television Group

UNIVISION NETWORKS "YOU ARE THE CHAMPION" World Cup Campaign Case Study: Cox Arkansas/Kansas

Category: Marketing Tactic/Cable-All Other Media

1st Place
Joyce Dabney
Manager, Advertising & Public Relations
Adlink
Adlink's Adconexion Sales Kit

Category: Marketing Tactic/Network-All Other Media

1st Place
Michael Huh
VP, Marketing & Strategic Development
ImaginAsian TV
ImaginAsian TV 's Original Series-Comedy Zen

Category: Marketing Tactic Network-Direct Mail (Note: 2nd Place Tie)

1st Place
Jasmine Rezai
VP, Affiliate Marketing
Univision Television Group
UNIVISION NETWORKS "YOU ARE THE CHAMPION" World Cup Campaign

2nd Place
Ariela Nerubay
VP, Marketing & Sales
TuTv
Free Latina Magazine Subscription

2nd Place
Shelly Kurtz
Director of Sales & Marketing
International Networks
Passport to Savings!

Category: Marketing Tactic Cable-Grass Roots & Guerilla

1st Place
Kier Kristensen
Marketing Manager
West Bay Market/Northern California Region/Comcast
Suenos de La Ninez - Land of Childhood Dreams

Category: Marketing Tactic Network-Grass Roots & Guerilla

1st Place
Selena Spencer
BET
BET Awards '06

1st Place
Nancy Hennings
Director of Marketing of IFC Brand Statory
IFC (The Independent Film Channel)
Yo Soy Boricua, Paque Tu Lo Sepas! (I'm Boricua, Just So You Know)

2nd Place
Jasmine Rezai
VP, Affiliate Marketing
Univision Television Group
#800-Espanol World Cup Campaign (TeleFutura Network)

Category: Marketing Tactic Network-Internet/New Media (Note: First Place Tie)

1st Place
Joseph Jerome T. Francia
OIC & Head of Operations
GMA Network, Inc.
GMA Pinoy TV Website (www.gmapinoytv.com)

1st Place
Michael Huh
VP, Marketing & Strategic Development
ImaginAsian TV
ImaginAsian TV's use of Vimation Web Video Technology on www.iatv.tv

2nd Place
Douglas Dickstein
Executive Director, Affiliate Marketing
Si TV
"Unacceptable Behavior" Online Campaign

Category: Marketing Tactic Cable-Out of Home

1st Place
Selena Spencer
BET
BET Awards '06

2nd Place
Pawan Mehra
Account Manager
Ameredia, Inc.
Russian New Year Campaign

Category: Marketing Tactic Cable-Print

1st Place
Valerie Green
VP, Multicultural Marketing & Advertising
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Optimum Gives You More!

Category: Marketing Tactic Network-Print

1st Place
Adrion Porter
Manager, Market Development
HBO
Mucho Mucho Mas - Hispanic Heritage Month Print Tactic

2nd Place
Norma Manzanares
Executive Director, Marketing
Si TV
"You Lost Me At Hola" Trade Ad

Category: Marketing Tactic Network-Radio

1st Place
Selena Spencer
BET
College Hill & Lil Kim: Countdown to Lockdown Radio

2nd Place
Nancy Hennings
Director of Marketing of IFC Brand Statory
IFC (The Independent Film Channel)
Yo Soy Boricua, Paque Tu Lo Sepas! (I'm Boricua, Just So You Know)

Category: Marketing Tactic Cable-Television

1st Place
Maida Chicon
Director of Multicultural Marketing
Time Warner Cable
Help

2nd Place
Maida Chicon
Director of Multicultural Marketing
Time Warner Cable
Raza

Category: Marketing Tactic Network-Television

1st Place
Susan Nave
Director, Nick Jr. Brand Marketing
Nickelodeon
Go Diego, Go Launch

2nd Place
Sonya Lockett
VP, Public Affairs
BET
Rap-It-Up Testing PSA's

About NAMIC

NAMIC is the premier organization focusing on ethnic diversity in the communications industry. Founded in 1980 as a non-profit trade association, today NAMIC is comprised of nearly 2,000 professionals belonging to a network of chapters nationwide. Through initiatives that focus on education, advocacy and empowerment, NAMIC champions equity and inclusion in the workforce, with special attention given to ensuring that the leadership cadres of our nation's communications industry giants reflect the multi-ethnic richness of the populations they serve.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060705/NYW092LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: NAMIC

CONTACT: Charmaine Chapman, BTB Communications, +1-310-242-8407,
char@btbcommunications.com

Web site: http://www.namic.com/

Stephon Marbury and Steve & Barry's Launch the Starbury Collection, Including Steph's New On-Court Sneaker

Entire Line of High Quality Clothing and Footwear Will Enable Kids and Parents to Purchase NBA-quality Sneakers for Under $15 and Create Entire Wardrobes for Under $100

Design Contest Affords Opportunity for Kids to Make Real Impact on the Collection

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y., Aug. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Growing up in a Coney Island household with parents struggling to make ends meet, Stephon Marbury knows first-hand the pressure kids, parents and playground basketball players feel to spend top-dollar on the latest clothes and sneakers. Today, as a high- profile NBA player, he's now in a position to realize a lifelong dream to "change the world" by eliminating that aspect of our culture. Marbury has announced that he is teaming with national casual apparel retailer Steve & Barry's to introduce the Starbury Collection. The Starbury Collection is an arsenal of high-quality apparel and sneakers with extraordinarily lower price points than similar merchandise sold by the country's other top retailers and manufacturers. It goes on-sale exclusively at all Steve & Barry's shopping mall locations across the country beginning Thursday, August 17th - just in time for Back to School.

The Starbury Collection features nearly 50 casual and comfortable items for men and boys, including jackets, jeans, hoodies, tshirts, athletic tops and shorts, lifestyle and performance sneakers, work boots, hats and other accessories, with nearly every individual item priced at an astonishing $10 and under.

Perhaps no item reflects the extraordinary value of the Starbury Collection more than the Starbury One, a new high performance basketball sneaker that Marbury will wear on NBA courts beginning this coming season. Available in a variety of colors and all sizes for adults and kids, the Starbury One found on Steve & Barry's shelves will be identical to those Marbury will wear during games. Incorporating a sleek design and the same technical features for comfort, stability and durability found in basketball sneakers sold by the nation's top brands for $100 to $150, the Starbury One will carry a price tag of just $14.98. It's believed to be the lowest price for an NBA quality sneaker during the modern era.

Stephon Marbury said: "Kids shouldn't have to feel the pressure to spend so much to feel good about the way they look. I'm blessed to be in a position to do something about it, to help change the world. I couldn't find a better partner to create the Starbury Collection with than Steve & Barry's. For 20 years, their entire business has been about selling great quality clothes for much less than people expect they should cost."

Winner of the 2005 Hot Retailer of the Year Award from the International Council of Shopping Centers and called the "the fastest growing retailer you never heard of" in a recent Forbes Magazine profile, Steve & Barry's are giant sized, shopping mall anchor stores. Each of the chain's 140+ locations in 31 states offers full lines of casual, comfortable clothes for the entire family at extraordinary low prices, presented in a specialty retail environment featuring wood floors and fixtures, huge aisles, and plasma TVs. The Starbury Collection will be featured in huge, dedicated showrooms within each store, to include monitors running The Starbury Story, a four-minute documentary on Marbury's life and vision for the Starbury Collection. Web-only segments of the documentary and more information on the Collection are available at http://www.starbury.com/ .

Steve & Barry's co-CEO Barry Prevor said: "This is a very exciting moment for Steve & Barry's. When Steve and I founded our company in 1985, it was with a mission to bring people the most unbelievable values on clothes they've ever seen. That's exactly what Steph's vision for the Starbury Collection is all about, so this has been a fantastic partnership from the first day we met. Like Steph, we want to revolutionize how people shop, and this new line will help us continue to make that happen."

As part of the launch of the Starbury Collection, Marbury and Steve & Barry's worked with the Madison Square Boys & Girls Club's Thomas S. Murphy Clubhouse in Brooklyn, New York, to offer local children participating in the Club's art program the opportunity to display their design talents. The winner of the "Starbury Design a T-shirt contest" will see their design featured on a special edition tshirt sold at Steve & Barry's Manhattan location as part of the Starbury Collection for a limited time. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from sales of the Starbury Collection is being donated to the Club.

Marbury commented, "It was very important to me that the Starbury Collection have a strong social component for kids and parents, especially in urban areas. Steve & Barry's and I decided to conduct the design contest so kids could give real input into how the Starbury line is created and as a means to give back to youth and the community."

In creating the Starbury line, Marbury and Steve & Barry's called upon the best possible resources to collaborate on the product development and marketing of the Collection.

Leading athletic gear design firm Rocketfish, perhaps best known for providing high performance basketball sneaker concepts to Nike, Reebok and Converse, worked closely with Marbury to create the Starbury One and ensure it delivers all the comfort and stability required for professional basketball players and recreational ballers alike.

Rocketfish co-founders TJ Gray and Ashley Brown commented, "We have worked with many of the largest sneaker brands in the world. Cut the Starbury One in half and you'll find that it is constructed the same way as other high performance basketball sneakers."

The Mastermind Group (TMG) serves as the lead marketing agency on the Starbury Collection under the leadership of Principal Erin Patton, formerly director of the Jordan Brand at Nike for five years. In addition to providing advertising, public relations, online and other marketing services, he has been an integral member of the Starbury product development team.

Marbury's marketing representatives, Jordan Bazant and Peter Raskin of The Agency Management, and urban marketing agency The Run Group also played critical roles in helping develop the Starbury Collection brand and roll-out.

"We knew that if we were going to partner with Steph and help 'change the world' with the Starbury Collection, it would require us to pool the talents of world class experts," said Andy Todd, president of Steve & Barry's. "Thankfully, we found them with Rocketfish, Mastermind, The Agency, and The Run Group. Todd and Steve & Barry's Chief Partnership Officer Howard Schacter serve as Brand Managers of the Starbury Collection.

About Stephon Marbury

Stephon Marbury grew up in the Coney Island section of Brooklyn, NY, the sixth of seven children. Named to The Sporting News list of the "Good Guys in Sports" in 2005, 2002 and 2001, he is a two-time NBA All-Star. He was named the National High School Player of the Year by Parade Magazine his senior year in 1995. After starring at Georgia Tech University, Marbury entered the NBA in 1996. This will be his 11th season in the NBA, and his fourth with his hometown New York Knicks.

About Steve & Barry's

Based in New York, Steve & Barry's University Sportswear is a leading national specialty retailer offering licensed and non-licensed lifestyle apparel for men, women and children. Founded in 1985, the company operates anchor and junior anchor shopping center and mall-based locations throughout the U.S. Today, the entire family can benefit from Steve & Barry's incredible values on its full line of jeans, t-shirts, cargos, jackets, footwear, shorts, sweatshirts, jerseys, hats, hoodies, chinos, tanks, polos and more.

Erin Patton
201.988.3412 or epatton@themastermindgroup.com

Howard Schacter
516.267.7354 or hschacter@steveandbarrys.com

Source: Steve & Barry's

CONTACT: Erin Patton, +1-201-988-3412, epatton@themastermindgroup.com,
or Howard Schacter, +1-516-267-7354, hschacter@steveandbarrys.com, both for
Steve & Barry's

Web site: http://www.starbury.com/
http://www.steveandbarrys.com/

Hip Hop Press Is Now A Media Property of Altered Beta, LLC

That's right!  I've incorporated as Altered Beta, LLC and all my online projects now fall under that umbrella.

Part of this move is to make a clearer legal separation between myself and my online projects though I also expect to pursue offline projects in the future.

More importantly for my readers, this is one step in professionalizing my activities, especially those involving Hip Hop Press and ProHipHop.

Beyond that, look for more projects this fall that I think the hip hop business community will find of great value.  Stay tuned, people.

Blink Music Debuts Their Annual Hip Hop Contest

Boston, MA - August 14, 2006 - Today, Blink Music announces the debut of their annual Hip Hop Contest. Blink Music is celebrating Greater Boston's local Hip Hop talent by hosting a contest aimed to help one of Boston's best Hip Hop solo artists or groups along their career path.

"There is so much raw talent out there but, because of overhead costs, few resources to produce and market an artist" says Blink Music’s Jessica West. “We are awarding the winner of the contest the full benefits package needed to create a professional, rack-ready production.”

Blink is awarding the winner of their contest 30 hours in the Blink Music recording studio, free mastering by Blink, co-production by Mass Industry Committee’s Producer of the Year Nelly Protoolz, and a professional photo shoot with photographer Andrew Swaine. The total package is worth over $2,000.

Applicants can enter by visiting www.blinkcontest.com and sending in the entry form, as well as their original music and a $15 entry fee. Entries will be judged by M.I.C. Producer of the Year Nelly Protoolz and Tim Lukas, music producer and Blink Music owner. The contest ends October 30, 2006.

Learn more by visiting www.blinkcontest.com

About Blink Music
Blink Music is a full service production company located in Cambridge, MA. Blink began in 1997 as a high end recording studio. Over the last ten years, Blink has worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry and has expanded into music production, mix/mastering, podcasting, video game and film scoring, and artist development.

Website: http://www.blinkmusic.com

Blink Music
Jessica West
email: jessicaw@blinkmusic.com

The Countdown: 10 Days Left to The Powers of Music Seminar and Showcase in Austin, TX

Tuesday, August 15, 2006 - Austin, TX. There are ten days left until the Powers of Music Seminar and Showcase in Austin,TX.  This is the First Annual Powers of Music Seminar and Showcase, which was designed with the artist in mind.  The panels and topics will be extremely informative and will provide artists with tools that will help them in the areas of royalties, retail, distribution, budgeting, promotions, the legal system and much more.  It's being presented by Hot 93.3FM in Austin.  The event will kick off with a bang at the Dirty 30 Celebrity Birthday Bash in the company of 30 of the hottest entertainers in the South; Lil Flip will be performing live.  For more information, sponsorship, registration and performance opportunities contact 512.228.4711 or log onto www.thepowersofmusic.com / www.myspace.com/thepowersofmusic.  

Event CONTACT:
Dalyce "D'Lyte" Kelley
National Market Manager/Publicist
Interstate Marketing Group
Austin :: Dallas :: Houston
512.228.4711 :: 214.475.3884 :: 713.732.0121
pr@interstatemarketinggroup.com

SOLE STRONG

[8.14.06 - Las Vegas, NV] - Alexander Morse set to debut SNEAKER COUTURE COLLECTION at MAGIC Marketplace.

Alexander Morse will be debuting the Sneaker Couture Collection at the exciting MAGIC Marketplace, BOOTH NUMBER: ST30620-18, August 28-31, 2006
(Monday-Thursday) at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Each February and August, the fashion industry converges on Las Vegas for one of the most influential four days in the business – the MAGIC Marketplace. Over seventy years in the making, what started as a small group of manufacturers has developed into the preeminent fashion market in the world.

“I’m excited to release the Sneaker Couture Collection at the MAGIC Marketplace during one of the last weekends of summer in the beautiful city of Las Vegas. I created this collection with the vision of taking fashion to a whole new level by incorporating both high-end fashion elements with urban sports wear influences” says designer and founder Alexander Morse. Using bold colors, innovative graphics and vivid color schemes Alexander Morse has become known for it’s soleful designs.

About Alexander Morse
Alexander Morse clothing was founded in 1999 by a couple of young aspiring artist seeking to fill a perceived void in the fashion market by designing very exclusive lines of shirts and apparel around the shoe itself, the response has been overwhelming. Expect Alexander Morse to make waves in the fashion industry as the new sought after collectible.

The philosophy behind Alexander Morse is to use the human body as a canvas while using elite footwear as its inspiration. Whether or not our customer uses the same shoe that was the basis for our design, our high quality product will stand alone in today's urban influenced market.

Every work of art has an origin of inspiration. ~ Sole Strong.

For more information, please visit:
www.alexandermorse.com.
http://www.myspace.com/alexandermorse

# # # # # # #

Media Contact:
Cheryl Moss
Divas, Inc.
divasincpr@gmail.com
+1.310.358.2709
www.myspace.com/divasincorporated

CELEBRITY FASHION STYLIST OFFERS SAGE OPINION

TIPS ON STYLE, TREND FORECASTING AND IMAGING READILY AVAILABLE

New York, NY - August 11, 2006- Image is everything! Brooklyn-based
fashion stylist Shaunya Hartley, lives by that motto. While working with
major style stars such as Usher, Lauryn Hill and Vanessa Williams,
Shaunya puts great energy towards creating a perfect image. Whether working
on music videos or red carpet events, this stylist-to-the-stars holds
nothing back when it comes to fashion.

A profoundly visual individual, Shaunya presents an illuminating
in-depth analysis of current trends, celebrity style and overall fashion.
Additionally, she is prepared with historical anecdotes, colloquiums and
visual analogies on all things clothing and accessories. Asked what
would she be doing if not a stylist and she draws a blank. “I couldn’t
imagine doing anything else. I just love clothes. I actually enjoy visiting
boutiques, examining the latest inventory, and making notes on what
could work for the varied roster of clients or projects that I have.”

A graduate of Fashion Institute of Technology and City College, Shaunya
has held a wide range of retail oriented jobs. The most notable
position was the ultra-chic SoHo boutique Kirna Zabete, where she rubbed
elbows with other stylists, such as Andrea Lieberman, Kithe Brewster and
Camilla Nickerson. Steadfast on becoming a professional dresser, she
became King Magazine’s Market Editor. Soon afterwards, she landed the
coveted stylist spot on a Smoking Grooves tour with hip-hop fashionista
Lauryn Hill. “Once you work with Lauryn, you see fashion as a true artistic
medium -- true self expression at its highest.”

Shaunya’s work has been featured in such magazines as In Style, VIBE,
Maxim, Essence and Honey, among others.

Contact:
Shaunya Hartley
Fashion Stylist
917-913-6890
shaunya@shaunyahartley.com
www.shaunyahartley.com

Mississippi prepares to honor hiphop heavyweights David Banner and Kamikaze with the "Best of the Best" Awards

The news hit the wires early Monday, August 14, 2006: Mississippi hiphop heavyweights David Banner and Kamikaze will be honored at the MS' Best Awards on Saturday, October 28, 2006.

"This history-making event will celebrate the best of the state in over 40 categories," says Jackie Watson-Loggins, Asst. Communications Director. Though the public will decide most of the winners, the Planning Committee will be presenting five awards, of which one is the "Best of the Best Award."

"It made sense that both Banner and Kamikaze get this one," Loggins continued. "They have contributed so much to the music scene collectively as Crooked Lettaz and then experienced success as solo perfomers. Not only that, they have made it their aim to give back to the community as well as reach out to others during the Katrina disaster." Details about the event can be found at www.free2flow.com or by contacting us via email at feedback@cawebb.com.

Contact:  Jackie Watson-Loggins, Asst. Communications Director
               Mississippi's Best Awards 2006
              601.923.6461
              www.free2flow.com

 

Goldmark Industries, Inc. Not Responsible for Spam

LOS ANGELES & VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 15, 2006--Goldmark Industries, Inc. (PINK SHEETS:GDKI), has received numerous calls and emails from victims of spam emails touting Goldmark's stock. The Company has issued a warning to the public of the unauthorized use of company press releases in an illegal spam operation being conducted by an unknown party. The Company does not condone the use of spam and demands that the responsible party immediately cease this illegal operation. Further, the Company has never at any time authorized or would authorize the use of unsolicited e-mails to publicize the Company's stock or events.
For a period of what we can determine to be almost a month, an unidentified third party(s) unrelated to the Company has been sending out e-mails touting the Company's stock or reciting new releases from the Company. The Company has investigated as many instances of the unsolicited e-mails as possible. To date, we have determined that several different ISPs from many different countries have been used to send the e-mails. There has been no success, however, in identifying a probable sender.

At this time, the Company is doing everything in its power to address concerns raised from individuals who have received the e-mails or hold stock in the Company. Additionally, the Company is actively seeking ways to identify the perpetrators and put a stop to the e-mails.

The Company encourages the public to thoroughly research an entity prior to making a financial commitment. Never rely upon unsolicited e-mail to enter into the investment decision process. The Company has contacted the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding this matter, and will continue to investigate the source of this illegal spam.

About Goldmark Industries, Inc.
Goldmark Industries is committed to providing the best in all forms of urban entertainment to the 45 Million Hip-Hop consumers in North America. The average North American spends more on entertainment than they do on health care and clothing, making entertainment the most attractive industry for investors and advertisers alike. Goldmark Industries is preparing to stand at the forefront of the Hip Hop consumer market, specializing in all aspects of entertainment, including Music, Feature Films, Television, Home Video/DVD and Major Events. The strength of Goldmark Industries is the result of its highly reputable and continuously growing management team. The knowledge and experience that each team member brings consistently supports the growing success of each division at Goldmark Industries. In addition, they are associated with some of the world's leading entertainment companies and top distribution channels worldwide, providing Goldmark Industries with the relationships to continually move forward.

Please visit www.goldmarkentertainment.com for further information on Goldmark Industries.

You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements in this press release. This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Words such as "will", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "goal", "expects", "future", "intends" and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements for many reasons, including the risks we face as described in this press release.

Contacts
Goldmark Industries, Inc.
Tom Nelson, Corporate Communications, 1-866-943-5084
info@goldmarkentertainment.com

AND 1 Mix Tape(R) Tour Teams with Soles4Souls(TM) in Boston and New York

AND 1 will give tickets to Community Groups that donate to Soles4Souls

PAOLI, Pa., Aug. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Free tickets to the last two stops of the 2006 AND 1 Mix Tape Tour presented by Mountain Dew are up for grabs to community groups who donate shoes to the newly formed non-profit Soles4Souls. As a part of a mutual charitable initiative between AND 1 Basketball and Soles4Souls, community groups and non-profit organizations in the Boston and New York City metro areas will be eligible for tickets to the games at the TD Banknorth Garden on August 22nd and at Madison Square Garden on August 25th.

Soles4Souls is a newly formed non-profit organization that facilitates the distribution of shoes to the hurting people of the world. The Soles4Souls team provided relief effort for the Asian Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina victims, netting over one million pairs donated for these two disasters. AND 1 is committed to help spread their message of hope and generate awareness of the Soles4Souls cause.

"We heard about Soles4Souls and wanted to get involved to help spread the word about what a great thing they are doing," said Lisa Fusco, GM of the Mix Tape Tour property within basketball footwear and apparel company AND 1. "Giving back is a huge piece of what our AND 1 Mix Tape Tour is all about so what better way to get the community involved in these last two streetball games of the summer than to invite them out if they help the cause by donating shoes."

Community and non-profit organizations in the Boston and New York metro areas can donate from one pair to 1000 pairs of new or used shoes to earn tickets to the AND1 Mix Tape Tour, the nation's premiere playground basketball event. Participating organizations will be asked to ship donations to Soles4Souls and complete a donation form. AND 1 will distribute Mix Tape Tour tickets upon completion of the form and receipt of the shoes at Soles4Souls.

Wayne Elsey, founder, Soles4Souls said his organization is thrilled about the partnership with AND 1. "It's great for our organization, being that we are new, to have the opportunity to partner with a footwear company like AND 1. The exposure we can get in these two large cities is only going to help our mission."

For more information on the AND1 and Soles4Souls partnership or to get involved in earning free tickets please send an email to PR@and1.com or to paulw@soles4souls.org.

About AND 1:

Founded in 1993, AND 1 makes basketball footwear and apparel for players with serious game. The company that first made its mark in the apparel industry with a line of "in your face" trash talk tee shirts now offers a complete product line for basketball players, including performance shoes, shorts, tees, sleeveless tees, pants, team uniforms, licensed collegiate gear, accessories and other products. Brand revenues have grown from $1 million in 1993 to more than $150 million in 2005. AND 1 footwear and apparel is sold in more than 130 countries around the world and worn by the New Zealand, Slovenian, Puerto Rican and Turkish national basketball teams. AND 1 endorsers include Marcus Camby (Denver Nuggets), Rafer Alston (Houston Rockets) and Bobby Jackson (Memphis Grizzlies) as well as the world-renown streetballers the AND 1 Mix Tape(R) Tour players including Main Event, AO, the Professor and others. For more information, visit www.and1.com. AND 1 is owned by American Sporting Goods (ASG).

About Soles4Soles:

Soles4Souls facilitates the donations of shoes, which will be used to aid the hurting worldwide. Shoe companies, retailers, and individuals can donate footwear (both new and used). Soles4Souls is a 501(C)(3) recognized by the IRS and donating parties are eligible for tax advantages. For more information, visit www.soles4souls.org or call 1-888-840-7074 or 334-863-6628.

Source: Soles4Souls

CONTACT: Mandy Murphy of AND 1 PR, +1-610-249-2420, or cell,
+1-610-420-4664, or mandy.murphy@and1.com; or Angela Foglesong of S4S-Knot
Limited, LLC, +1-615-604-1879, or angela@knotlimited.com

Web site: http://www.soles4souls.org/
http://www.and1.com/