Virginia Black Expo '08
Saturday, August 23, 2008, from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m
For the fourth consecutive year, the Virginia Black Expo—the largest
event of its kind directly targeting the African-American community—will return to Hampton Roads. New technology, film and music will be the focus of the event which will be held Saturday, August 23, 2008, from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. at the Hampton Roads Convention Center in Hampton. This year's Expo will be held in conjunction with the Mid Atlantic Black Film Festival.
The Fourth Annual Virginia Black Expo will feature more than 200 African-American owned businesses and vendors that will showcase their products and services to the public. It is also a unique opportunity for major corporations and government entities to develop viable working relationships with minority-owned businesses while marketing their products and services to a growing consumer market. The event also features seminars, workshops, youth activities, additional celebrity guests and even more live entertainment.
CELEBRITY GUESTS
The stunningly beautiful movie and television actress Nia Long will make an appearance from 3 – 4 p.m. where the public will be able to meet and greet her up close and personal. Voted one of the 50 Most Beautiful People in the World by People Magazine, Long has mesmerized
audiences throughout the world. With movie hits such "Premonition", "Big Momma's House" (1 & 2), "Love Jones", "Are We There Yet?" and "Are We Done Yet?" and television credits such as "Boston Legal", "Everwood" and "Third Watch", Long has been recognized and honored as a superb actress. She has won numerous Image Awards & BET Comedy Awards.
Lamman Rucker has not only good looks but also brains and athleticism to make him the newest heart throb on the Hollywood scene. His diverse resume' includes movie credits such as "Meet the Browns" and "Why Did I Get Married?" and television credits such as "House of Payne" and "Half & Half." He also has a graduate degree in Education and Curriculum Development and he played basketball in college and semipro ball. Rucker will make an appearance at the Black Expo from 4 – 5:30 p.m.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
The Expo's keynote speaker will be Howard "H" White, Vice President of Jordan Brand for NIKE. White is also the founder of "Believe to Achieve" national NIKE youth movement. A native of Hampton, Virginia, White played basketball with the University of Maryland and was selected in 14th Round of the 1973 NBA Draft by the Washington Bullets (now Wizards).
White has recently written a book entitled, "Believe to Achieve: See the Invisible, Do the Impossible" which is available through Beyond Words Publishing. This is a handbook for all people who have a goal they don't know how to reach or who want to help others discover their gifts. White's appearance will be on the main stage from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., followed by a book signing from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
SPECIAL MUSICAL PERFORMANCE
Gospel artist Kurt Carr will be the featured musical performer
on the main stage from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Carr released an album of his compositions and arrangements entitled "Together" on Light Records in 1991. Starting his own record label Gospo Centric in 1992, the energetic musical director led his group, the Kurt Carr Singers through several albums of contemporary music thoroughly steeped in the
traditional sound of gospel including "Serious About It!", "No One Else" and "Awesome Wonder". As well as his own recordings and serving as creative director for the LA–based West Angeles Church of God In Christ, Carr has been an active promoter of the acts on his Gospo Centric label, including such industry heavy hitters as Trin-i-tee 5:7, Gospel Gangstas and Kirk Franklin and the Family.
NEW THIS YEAR
New to this year's Expo is the Inaugural Black Expo Idol Competition for adults and youth. Prizes, including cash amounts up to $1,000, a professional photo shoot, and promotional video package, will be awarded to the top three adult and youth winners. Talented vocalists (no groups or rap artists) who are interested in competing can visit blackexpousa.com for additional information. There is a $15 registration fee (which includes admission to the Black Expo), and the deadline for entry is Sunday, August 10.
Tickets for the Expo are $10 for individuals ages 13 and up; $5 for children ages 5 – 12 and free for children ages 4 and under. Adult tickets may be purchased online in advance for just $8 (child ticket is $5) at
www.ez-tixx.com or by calling 1-877-933-8499.
For more information on securing an exhibitor booth or being a sponsor of the Fourth Annual Virginia Black Expo, please call McCants Communications Group, Inc. at (757) 399-4153 or (888) 299-6296 or visit
www.blackpagesusa.com .
