Magic Johnson Foundation Kicks Off Annual Leadership Conference for Students

Earvin 'Magic' Johnson and the Magic Johnson Foundation Give Students their 'Blueprint for Success' at Annual Leadership Conference

Via Press Release: Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Chairman and Founder of the Magic Johnson Foundation (MJF) will kickoff the Foundation's annual Taylor Michaels Scholarship Program Life Skills Leadership Conference in Los Angeles this weekend with a keynote address to the 150 deserving scholarship students attending. They come from all around the country anticipating the four-day program that promises to educate, entertain and empower. The Taylor Michaels Scholarship Program (TMSP) was implemented to subsidize education expenses for college bound students who show exemplary scholastic achievement but are stifled by their socio-economic condition.

"We are extremely passionate about our students in the Program and their well being, and we work on a daily basis to provide them with the necessary tools for success," said Towalame Austin, President of the Magic Johnson Foundation. To date, the program has supported 300 students. In addition to providing financial support to scholarship recipients, the TMSP offers a mentoring and internship program that prepares each Scholar for the workplace and post graduation. With this year's theme, "Your Blueprint for Success," the Foundation continues on with their tradition to prepare Scholars for academic success, career paths and life in general.

During the highly-anticipated four days, the Foundation will host a series of seminars. On Friday, July 10th, the Scholars will be a part of a Financial Park simulation to better assist them with budgeting while preparing them to enter into the "real" world. On Saturday, July 11th, they will participate in a Brother 2 Brother/Sister 2 Sister workshop, which will offer an open forum for them to candidly talk about personal life issues and the challenges they face as young men and women. The Foundation will also partner with UCLA's Make Art/Stop AIDS program as an encouragement for students to learn more about the disease through the arts. MJF has tested over 30,000 people through their "I Stand With Magic" Campaign (a partnership with Abbott) to end Black HIV/AIDS.

On Sunday, July 12th, the Magic Johnson Foundation will host the Scholar Recognition Brunch. The brunch will celebrate the Taylor Michaels Scholars 2009 graduating class and recognize their significant achievements, along with welcoming 20 new students to the program. The four days will conclude on Monday, July 13th with a Life Post College seminar for graduating seniors during the day and a Sponsor Reception in the evening to thank all the corporate sponsors who made the Conference possible this year through their commitment to support the mission of the Magic Johnson Foundation. Those sponsors include: FedEx, Dell, Best Buy, American Airlines, Mercedes Benz and Global Consumer Innovation.

About the Magic Johnson Foundation: The Magic Johnson Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, was established in 1991 to raise funds for community-based organizations focused on HIV/AIDS education and prevention. The Foundation has since expanded its mission to develop programs and services that address the broader educational, health and social needs of ethnically diverse, urban communities throughout the nation. For more information, log onto www.magicjohnson.org.

Source: PRNewswire/The Magic Johnson Foundation

Miami Youth Center to Publish Inner City Magazine

NBA Champion and Author, Alonzo Mourning, along with Media Tycoon, Jerry Powers, join forces to mentor young students to become successful entrepreneurs

Via Press Release: Defying economic, social and academic odds, a team of high profile professionals in the Fashion, Advertising, Publishing and Public Relations Arena in Miami, will mentor and teach a selected group of children, from the Overtown Youth Center, a program of Alonzo Mourning Charities, how to become successful entrepreneurs by educating them on how to develop a company from its inception and in turn, earn a profit by publishing a first-ever, inner city glossy magazine.

With only one out of 12 students graduating from high school in Overtown, one of South Florida’s oldest and most impoverished neighborhoods, Alonzo Mourning Charities (AMC), renowned publisher Jerry Powers and OYC Center Coordinators selected 19 students to create a magazine that speaks for them. They were chosen to be part of this project through their interest in art, dining, photography, sales and fashion. Empowered by this creative venture, they will have eight weeks to come up with a name, write and edit copy, style fashion pages, handle the graphic design, style and shoot photos and provide a ready-to-publish magazine, transmitted electronically to a Virginia-based printer.

Powers, who formerly published highly successful Ocean Drive magazine, is committed along with AMC, to coach the students in what Powers hopes will be a self-sustaining, ongoing magazine. Determined to support the children in creating a winning first issue of the magazine, he and Mourning would like to see the kids’ magazine to take off. Their aim: teach the children how successful business really works.

Mourning, a Miami resident, is committed through the Alonzo Mourning Charities, a 501(c)(3) foundation which has already raised more than $7 million to fund programs that promote positive change in low socioeconomic communities including stimulating the development of future youth enrichment centers. The Overtown Youth Center, which was founded by Mourning in 2003, is the first such effort.

At a time of global economic and social turmoil, inner city students are at even greater risk. The magazine project aims to address those children who might otherwise fall prey to the grim statistics of today’s black America, where six out of 10 high school dropouts have been in prison by their mid-30s, and approximately 70% of infants are born to single mothers.

For more information on the Overtown Youth Center, visit http://www.overtownyouth.org/.

Source: PRLog

‘Real Men Cook’ Chef to Appear on Season Six of Bravo’s Top Chef

Ron Duprat, an executive chef from Florida and organizer of the charity event Real Men Cook Miami, will be among the 17 new chefs on the number one food show on cable, Bravo’s award winning series “Top Chef: Las Vegas.” Bravo's "Top Chef" offers a fascinating window into the competitive, pressure-filled environment of world-class cookery and the restaurant business at the highest level.

The series features seventeen aspiring chefs who compete for their shot at culinary stardom and the chance to earn the prestigious title of "Top Chef." The show premieres Wednesday, August 26 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. This season captures Sin City's high stakes and high rollers in addition to exploring what Vegas has to offer beyond the Strip.

The 17 "Top Chef: Las Vegas" chef'testants will be whittled down week by week as they compete to outshine their competition. The winning chef will receive $100,000 furnished by the makers of the Glad family of products, $100,000 of merchandise provided by Macy's, a feature in Food & Wine magazine, a showcase at the Annual Food & Wine Classic in Aspen and will earn the title of "Top Chef." The M Resort Spa & Casino served as the production location for "Top Chef: Las Vegas."

Duprat is originally from Mare Rouge, Haiti and currently resides in Hollywood, Fla. His favorite Simple Summer Recipe is Jumbo Scallop, Sweet Chili Tahini Sauce, Watermelon and Avocado Slaw. Foodie Fact: Duprat is known for daring experimentation with exotic flavors, often incorporating his own Haitian Creole influences with French-Asian Fusion cuisine. His favorite dish to prepare? Flourless chocolate cake.

Be sure to tune in!


Photo & Source: BravoTV

The Apollo Theater's 75th Anniversary Gala

Miss Natalie, Quincy Jones, Clarissa and Edgar Bronfman, Jr., Clarence and Jackie Avant, and Gerard "Jerry" Inzerillo attend the Apollo Theater's 75th Anniversary in NYC.

On June 8, 2009, a nationwide celebration was held for the 75th anniversary of the famed Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. The event honored legendary artists, entertainers, and community leaders, among them Camille and Bill Cosby. The philanthropic couple received the Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis Arts and Humanitarian award, which is given each year to a couple who embodies the powerful beliefs of this couple, who have a deep commitment to their community and a connection to each other and their family.

Len and Marsha Burnett, Brett and Yvonna Wright

The evening was hosted by comedian, author and radio personality Steve Harvey, and featured performances by Jamie Foxx, The O'Jays, Mariah Carey and Anita Baker. Also honored during the evening was Quincy Jones, Patti LaBelle and the Coca Cola company, who received the corporate award for their commitment to the Apollo Theater and the Harlem community. Also receiving an honor was the City of New York, receiving the Percy E. Sutton Civic Leadership Award.

Radio One Founder Cathy Hughes, comedian Paul Mooney, publicist Marvette Britto and Stacey J

Following the event was a star studded evening at the Apollo Supper Club, a unique lounge atmosphere created by renowned designer David Monn, that featured gourmet creations by Great Performances, plentiful libations by Belvedere, Hennessy, Moet & Chandon, and late night dancing with music provided by DJ D-Nice.

Tina Wynn, Toni Brown and Della Britton Baeza

Alicia and Dr. Dan Bythewood; Gayle King and Kevin Liles

This annual event is Apollo's largest fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting the Apollo Theater Foundation, a non profit organization dedicated to preserving and developing the Apollo Theater and its initiatives for performing artists, educational programs, and community outreach efforts in New York City and beyond.

On the web: www.apollotheater.org

Photos copyright by Margot Jordan 2009

Photos of the Day: The 2009 McDonald's 365 Black Awards

Alonzo Mourning, New York McDonald's owner/operator Frank E. Mason, CNN journalist Soledad O'Brien, House Majority Whip for the US House of Representatives James E. Clyburn and McDonald's USA President Don Thompson attend the 365 Black Awards in New Orleans, July 3, 2009

As a follow up to my post yesterday on the McDonald's 365 Black Awards held in New Orleans, here are a few photos from the event. Since 2003, the McDonald's 365 Black awards have recognized African American leaders who are bettering the lives of African Americans across the nation. Those honored this year were NBA legend and philanthropist Alonzo Mouring, New York McDonald's owner/operator Frank E. Mason, award winning CNN journalist Soledad O'Brien, House Majority Whip for the US House of Representatives James E. Clyburn and Black Enterprise publisher Earl G. Graves, Sr.

Award winning journalist Ed Gordon, R&B legend Charlie Wilson and Roland Martin


Soledad O'Brien and Alonzo Mourning; television personality Omarosa Manigault

R&B singer and McDonald's 365 Black spokesperson Dwele

Photos: Burrell Communications

McDonald's 365 Black Awards Celebrate African American Community and Business Leaders

Ronald McDonald, President of Essence Magazine Michelle Ebanks and Mc Donalds USA Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Neil Golden with a plaque in honor of the 15th Anniversary of the Essence Music Festival at the 2009 Essence Music Festival Presented By Coca-Cola Press Conference at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 3, 2009 in New Orleans, Louisiana

Via Press Release: McDonald's 2009 365Black Awards continues to recognize prominent African Americans in a year when the concept of change has gained significant attention. Each 2009 recipient of the McDonald's 365Black Awards is inspiring and stimulating change that will impact African Americans and all Americans. They are also examples of exceptional community service, empowering new generations for years to come.

Celebrities and dignitaries from across the country joined event emcee Tom Joyner, nationally syndicated radio personality and one of the first recipients of the 365Black Award, on Friday, July 3, 2009 at the Ernest Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, to recognize the accomplishments of several noteworthy individuals.

This year McDonald's recognizes Black Enterprise publisher Earl G. Graves, Sr.; CNN journalist Soledad O'Brien; NBA legend and philanthropist Alonzo Mourning; House Majority Whip and Congressman James E. Clyburn (D-SC) and McDonald's Owner and Operator Frank E. Mason. These individuals join the ranks of previous 365Black honorees, including the Rev. Jesse Jackson, ESSENCE Magazine president Michelle Ebanks and founder Susan Taylor, along with journalist Roland Martin and educator Johnnetta B. Cole.

"This year's McDonald's 365Black Awards recipients are revolutionizing what it means to be a leader in America. They are accomplished people of tremendous influence, committed to community service, and they have a vision that transcends this current generation," said Neil Golden, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, McDonald's USA. "They inspire all of us with their leadership in areas that touch our lives."

Earl G. Graves Sr. is founder of BLACK ENTERPRISE MAGAZINE. Today BE presents the state of enterprise in the African American community, providing information and advice to 4.3 million regular readers. Graves is recognized for providing information that for decades has perpetuated economic growth, development and achievement in the African American community at large.

Soledad O'Brien is an Emmy Award-winning journalist and current anchor and special correspondent for CNN Worldwide. Soledad's in-depth reporting continues to capture national attention, from her riveting live coverage of Hurricane Katrina to the breakthrough 2008 CNN series, "Black in America." O'Brien is recognized for her reporting excellence and commitment to educate the world about African Americans in America.

Alonzo Mourning, recently retired NBA star and longtime friend of McDonald's, is also the founder of Alonzo Mourning Charities. Created to encourage the educational development of youth by developing programs and enrichment centers in low socioeconomic communities, his philanthropic work has raised more than $6.5 million for various programs that aid in the development of children and their families.

Congressman James E. Clyburn is the House Majority Whip for the United States House of Representatives. Representing the state of South Carolina, Clyburn is recognized for his lifelong dedication to improving conditions for African Americans, for his services to the community at large, and for his stellar performance as one of our nation's highest ranking government officials.

Frank Mason is the owner/operator of 10 McDonald's restaurants in the New York Metro region. Mason has contributed nearly $1 million dollars toward an academic scholarship for African American male students in memory of his late son, Robert Todd Mason at Dillard University in New Orleans and has donated approximately $1 million dollars to the YMCA toward assisting inner-city youth. He is recognized because of his commitment in resources and time to the educational development of African American youth.

The 365Black Awards were launched in 2002 and are an extension of McDonald's 365Black initiative, created to celebrate the pride, heritage and achievements of African Americans yearlong. McDonald's outreach under the 365Black platform includes the web site www.mcdonalds.com/365black, as well as alliances with organizations that provide opportunities for African Americans to succeed.

Source: PRNewswire/Photo: Wireimage

Keyaron Fox Foundation Presents First Annual "Will of Steel" Charity Weekend

NFLer Keyaron Fox of the Pittsburgh Steelers is kicking off the launch of his new charity foundation, the Keyaron Fox Foundation. He shares, "Making an impact starts with belief: belief in oneself and the belief in the ability to make a difference. It is my goal to not only provide our youth with experience and exposure but to be a conduit that strengthens those beliefs. It is my foundation's mission to be a vehicle that serves as motivation for teens to have quality parks and recreational programs and adequate funding to start their dreams early in life."

The charity weekend, to be held Saturday, July 25, 2009 in the Atlanta area, will feature the "Iron and Steel" children's football clinic, and the "Keyaron Cares" family fun day for the community. The weekend will promote active lifestyles for children, healthy choices, and awareness and fundraising for the Fulton County Parks and Recreational facilities.

The focus of the Keyaron Fox Foundation is to facilitate fundraising efforts to impact inner city parks and recreation initiatives, youth recreational leagues, and intramural organizations. This also includes increasing awareness on the need for funds dedicated to maintaining parks and recreational property and equipment, and insuring that children are able to compete in sports with the cost/burden of equipment and uniforms removed.

Keyaron's own experiences fuel his desire to reach out and give back. He credits his recreational coaches and community programs to lighting the spark of his NFL dreams and helping instill the discipline and confidence he needed to become a successful athlete and a community leader. Raised in the South Fulton community of Atlanta, Georgia, Fox remains passionate about issues surrounding under-served public facilities, and funding for the public leagues where inner city children compete in sports.

All proceeds from the charity weekend will benefit the Fulton County Parks and Recreation facilities.

WHEN: Saturday, July 25, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE: Welcome All Park in College Park, GA//4255 Will Lee Road, College Park, GA 30349

Visit the foundation's website at www.keyaronfoxfoundation.org.

Source: Garner Circle PR

Photos of the Day

The Three Doctors (Drs. George Jenkins, Sampson Davis and Rameck Hunt) of the Three Doctors Foundation were honored at the 2009 BET Awards on June 28, 2009 in Los Angeles. They shared that since their apperance, they've received many sentiments and well wishes. They are also asking their supporters to visit BET.com and leave a message to let them know that you appreciate them showing positive images for children and the community. If you'd like the Three Doctors to speak at your next event, and for more information on their foundation, visit www.threedoctorsfoundation.org. Photo: PR Photos

On Thursday, June 25, 2009 through Saturday, June 27th, 2009, actress Lisa Raye, Chef G. Garvin (TV One/ KFC spokesperson), Jacque Reid (National TV & Radio Personality), Terance Mathis (Atlanta Falcons), Kenny Lofton (MLB Hall of Famer) and more attended the first annual American Financial Fairways & Highways Celebrity Golf & Biker Weekend in Atlanta.

Chef G. Garvin and event hosts

With awareness being raised for the fight against domestic violence, the county of Dekalb, GA proclaimed June 25, 2009 as an official "Fight against Domestic Violence" day. The event's philanthropic partner was the Women's Resource Center to End Domestic Violence. Events included a celebrity golf tournament, tour de luxe, and a white glove bike ride showcasing the organization's advocacy against domestic violence. http://www.fairwaysandhighways.com/.

Chef G.Garvin, Sonja Williams (Shock Theory), Jacque Reid (2nd from right), Terance Mathis and the Fairways and Highways Team

Photo Credit: Kat Goduco/Source: Garner Circle PR

The Insider: Kenneth Smaltz

Although we’re living in uncertain economic times, most Americans are optimistic about their financial future. However, in DC where I live, a recent study conducted by Nationwide Insurance and The Smiley Group revealed that nearly half of African Americans in DC say they are not taking any steps to better their financial circumstances. This includes not having a written financial plan, not knowing where to start when it comes to financial planning, and not having a financial advisor- because they think they don’t need or can’t afford one.

Meet our latest Insider, Kenneth Smaltz, Jr. His goal? To change the way people invest – by using rare coins! Mr. Smaltz owns K. Smaltz Inc., the first African American rare coin company in the United States. Based in Freeport, NY, his company buys and sells rare coins to private individuals and collectors to help them diversify their investment portfolios.

With 25 years of experience in this niche industry and sales over $10 million dollars, K. Smaltz Inc.'s mission is to change the perception of rare coin collecting from being a hobby to becoming a profitable investment options for investors.

Prior to starting his own company, Smaltz worked with a $25 million dollar rare coin company. During his time there, Smaltz built a net worth nearing $1 million dollars, selling coins to high profile clients in the business and entertainment world. (And ladies, I heard through the grapevine that this budding social jet setter is single!)

In addition to selling rare coins, K. Smaltz Inc. also designs commemorative coins for major companies and organizations celebrating milestone events. In 2004, K. Smaltz Inc. was commissioned to produce a rare coin, the Friars Centennial Celebration Coin, for The Friars Club's 100th Anniversary. Read on to learn how he got started in this field, rare coin collecting and African Americans, and his charitable involvement.

Coin collecting and African Americans aren't typically synonymous. When did your interest in rare coins begin?

Kenneth Smaltz (KS): Well, I have always loved history...from as far back as I can remember. Coins represent history. I have always been interested in items that were around before I was born. Looking at them and holding them in my hands would take me back in time allowing me to use my imagination. Collecting, within the last 12 years, has become an interest of mine. To this day I collect all things from Black memorabilia and antiques to paintings and automatic timepieces.

I began my career in rare coins strictly by happenstance. At the age of 21, I was hired to work in the shipping department of a precious metals and foreign currency company. They happened to have had a rare coin division. After two years with the company I was promoted to the sales division and thus started my career in coins.

As for African Americans and coin collecting being synonymous, you are right to some degree. However, you might be interested in the history of a set of four coins that I am donating to the Evidence Dance Company benefit this August 22nd. These four coins represent the only time in 217 years of United States history that coins were minted depicting African Americans. The coins are likely to bring in well over $1,000 for the charity. The set includes a 1946 Booker T. Washington Memorial Half Dollar, a 1951 Washington-Carver Commemorative Half Dollar, a 1997 Jackie Robinson Proof Silver Dollar and a 1998 Black Revolutionary War Patriots Proof Silver Dollar. The coins will be auctioned off via the benefit’s online partner: Charity Buzz.

Do you have any African American investor clients? Are there efforts that you know of to educate African Americans to use rare coins as a method of investment?

KS: In my 25 years in the rare coin industry, I have only had five African American clients. It's just not something that is talked about in the black community. We are familiar with more traditional forms of investing such as stock, bonds, real estate etc. However, I have recently been getting calls from some very important black businessmen and women who heard about what I do. Perhaps because I have been making the rounds with prominent black leaders and executives, educating them about what I do. The reception has been an extremely positive one. Word-of-mouth referrals have been amazing.

Kenneth Smaltz (center) with television correspondent AJ Calloway (right) and a guest at a Rush Philanthropic gala fundraiser in the Hamptons, New York

Do you have plans to, or are you currently, sharing your career with youth?

KS: It is definitely on my radar. As a matter of fact, I just stuck my toe in the water with an organization called Pencil. I signed up to volunteer my services. Pencil utilizes the experiences of individuals working in corporate America to take what they have learned and bring it into the schools of New York.

What charities do you support? Any upcoming charitable events that you're involved with?

I am having a BBQ at my house in July and I’m asking my guests to donate $10 or more to the Alzheimer's Foundation. A party with a purpose is what I’m calling it. With all the crazy things going on in the world, friends, family and giving back is more crucial than ever.

My father, who suffers from Alzheimer's, lives with me. It’s something close and dear to me.

Over the years I have supported many causes from the arts (Alvin Ailey Ballet, the Museum of Modern Art, Evidence Dance Company) to Habitat for Humanity, and feeding and clothing the homeless of New York with the 5th Avenue Presbyterian Church.

And, I’m collaborating with a NY-based dance company on a commemorative coin in celebration of their 25th anniversary. Something I’ll be able to speak more about in the coming months.

If you’re a company or non profit organization interested in a commemorative coin to mark a milestone event, and to learn more about his company, visit the website at www.keeperofthecoins.com.

{Thanks to Andrea at Diversity Affluence}

Upcoming Atlanta Event: NFL Players Host 3rd Annual Free Football Camp **UPDATED**

Via Press Release: NFL players Chauncey Davis (Atlanta Falcons), Ovie Mughelli (Atlanta Falcons) and Daniel Wilcox (Atlanta native, former Baltimore Raven) understand growing up in a single parent home with scarce financial resources. They also know what it is like to have an interest in playing sports on a higher level, but not having the resources to support that dream. Like many Atlanta-area youth, these players lived that life before becoming NFL stars. That’s why these players joined urban retail clothier DTLR to host a free football camp for kids ages 12-17 in the Atlanta metro area.

The 3rd Annual DTLR (Downtown Locker Room) Football Clinic will be held on July 11, 9a.m. at the James R. Hallford Football Stadium (3789 Memorial College Ave, Clarkston). This free one-day event will include comprehensive NFL football drills and conditioning for student-athletes, a recruiting seminar for parents and student athletes, and lunch.

"This camp offers students a unique hands-on training experience that will expose them to the same techniques and drills I used on the college level and that I use today in the NFL," added Davis. "It remains a priority for me and my foundation to give back and make a positive impact in the lives of young people."

Wilcox and Davis will sign autographs on Friday, July 10, 2 p.m. at the Gallery at South DeKalb (2801 Candler Road, Decatur). Interested families can pre-register for camp at the autograph signing.

"The players and DTLR realize that sports is a very big part of recreational activities and often time the dreams of many urban youth," said Sherri Goodall, Community Outreach Manager for DTLR. "Football camps can cost families up to $200 per day for instruction by NFL players and coaches. We thought it would only make sense to connect sports, professional athletes and DTLR’s community efforts together in a way that would benefit the community, most importantly Atlanta-area families."

Student athletes interested in participating can register online at www.DTLR.com or register the day of the camp from 8am-9am. Additional camp partners include The Athletic Group and Atlanta's Y-Sportz Magazine. "For those who know me, know that I am always trying to do something to give back to the community," said Wilcox. "This football camp is another opportunity to give the kids something I never had growing up." Source: Destined for Success Mgmt

Literacy Organizations Join Together to Promote Literacy in Rwanda

The Write Stuff Joins ENWA-Rwanda In Promoting Literacy

Via Press Release: Continuing its mission to encourage reading and spread its addiction to books around the world, The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign (previously featured HERE and HERE), is pleased to announce its support of ENWA-Rwanda, a not for profit organization that supports Rwanda’s post-genocide reconstruction efforts. The organization contributes to the healing of the country after the traumatic events of 1994 by supporting development initiatives started by women seeking self-reliance and improvement of the welfare of their communities.

ENWA's mission is to empower women to become competitive entrepreneurs through enhancing their potential to start and manage income generating projects. It provides them with business advisory services and develops their entrepreneurial skills.

In 2009, however, ENWA began using its influence to gather reading materials for Rwanda, hosting a book drive that garnered the support and attention of individuals across the world. It was through this endeavor that Cyrus A. Webb, The Write Stuff's Founder and host of Conversations LIVE! Radio, was introduced to Claire Umubyeyi and Delilah Rothenberg.

"The work Claire and Delilah are doing is so incredible and needed," says Webb, 33. He received an email from Delilah after she saw a post about The Write Stuff on http://www.blackgivesback.com/. "I was glad we could work together, and it became a chain reaction that I hope will further the cause of both of our organizations." Webb interviewed the ladies on Conversations LIVE! Radio, allowing them to talk about the work they were doing and how the public could get involved. (Listen to the interview by clicking here: http://tobtr.com/s/545839).

Claire and Delilah released the following statement: "We would like to thank The Write Stuff for their support and publicity of the ENWA-Rwanda book drive. Books are scarce in post-war Rwanda and illiteracy is high. Although Rwanda has been a French speaking country in recent history, the President is taking initiative to promote English as a new common language. Therefore, our assistance sending proper teaching materials will help to prevent Rwandans of all ages from being left behind. The Write Stuff connected us with the very impressive authors, Barbara Worton (Too Tall Alice--- seen above with Umubyeyi) and Stacey Kannenberg (Let's Get Ready series) to help with the drive, as well. Thanks again, Cyrus and team!"

Both organizations continue to need and solicit your support. For more information about The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com/ or contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com. For more information about ENWA, visit http://www.enwa-rwanda.org/, contact Claire Umubyeyi at 646.552.1037 or cu.tessy@gmail.com.

Remembering An Icon: Michael Jackson

Don Cornelius, host of the show "Soul Train": "His passing will be grieved far beyond that of any other singer, composer, producer, dancer and choreographer, in the history of the world. Indeed, in my very firmest, personal, belief there will never, ever, be another Michael Jackson!"

Berry Gordy Jr., Motown Records producer and founder:"I am somewhat numb. I'm shocked at the death of Michael Jackson. It's like a dream, a bad dream. He was so much like a son to me. It's just hard to realize that Michael Jackson is not here.

" ... As a kid Michael was always beyond his years, he was an innovator, he was a genius at what he did. He had a knowingness about him. At 9 years old, when I first started working with him, he seemed to me like he had been here before. He was just so knowledgeable about life."

Quincy Jones, conductor, composer, arranger, trumpeter:"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news. For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don't have the words. Divinity brought our souls together on "The Wiz" and allowed us to do what we were able to throughout the '80s. To this day, the music we created together on "Off The Wall," "Thriller" and "Bad" is played in every corner of the world and the reason for that is because he had it all ... talent, grace, professionalism and dedication. He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."

Gatherers outside of Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in New York, June 25, 2009

Jonelle Procope, President and CEO of the Apollo Theater Foundation: "The entire Apollo family is saddened to learn of Michael Jackson's untimely passing. Michael first performed at the Apollo in 1969 with his brothers when he was only 9 years old, winning Amateur Night and catapulting their career as the Jackson 5. We will always remember Michael in our hearts as a true Apollo legend, known for his professionalism and grace. Our sympathy goes out to his entire family. He will be deeply missed."

John Legend, singer, composer:"Michael Jackson will always be remembered as one of the greatest performers in the history of popular music. As a child of the '80s, I feel as though his music and his videos have been an inseparable part of my life and that of an entire generation. And the powerful thing about great music is that it will always live on. He was and always will be an icon. My heart goes out to his family, friends and countless fans for their tragic loss."

A youth stands in front of Michael Jackson's childhood home in Gary, Indiana

Beyonce, singer, songwriter: "This is such a tragic loss and a terrible day. The incomparable Michael Jackson has made a bigger impact on music than any other artist in the history of music. He was magic. He was what we all strive to be. He will always be the King of Pop! Life is not about how many breaths you take, but about how many moments in life that take your breath away. For anyone who has ever seen, felt or heard his art, we are all honored to have been alive in this generation to experience the magic of Michael Jackson. I love you, Michael."

Usher, R&B singer: "I pray for the entire Jackson family, particularly Michael's mother, children and all his fans that loved him so much. I would not be the artist, performer and philanthropist I am today without the influence of Michael. I have great admiration and respect for him, and I'm so thankful I had the opportunity to meet and perform with such a great entertainer, who in so many ways transcended the culture. He broke barriers, he changed radio formats! With music, he made it possible for people like Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama to impact the mainstream world. His legacy is unparalleled. Michael Jackson will never be forgotten."

Sources: CNN.com and MTV.com
Photos: Wireimage