Disney and its opportunities for today's youth/Sports

I must say I'm grateful to have learned of a particular outlet for today's talented youth. Yesterday, I took my son Moses to an audition for Disney networks. The audition took place in NYC and in attendance they had some of the top managers and agents in the country to evaluate the kids performance. The organization is called "The Event."This organization works collectively with Disney to find the next best talent for any upcoming projects they may have at hand. Although, my son is very talented in performing arts he is pursing acting and Soccer as a future career. I was excited to meet these important people that may be able to get my son to the next level in his career. There were many different industry professionals there such as Discover Inc. management, Hines and Hunt management, Eye management and more. These industry professionals found talent and placed them with jobs such as Disney XD,  Gaspard & Lisa (Disney Jr's new animated series), Hannah Montana, Zeke and Luther (Disney Channel) and more. 170

Attending this event I was very pleased to be informed that Disney ESPN also has a boys Soccer opportunity titled "Disney's Soccer Showcase" for boys. Once I heard this information I was delighted and grateful that Disney and its opportunities for today's youth is so extensive. This Disney Soccer showcase is rated #1 youth Soccer Tournament in US. At this showcase there are hundreds of college coaches observing for the new soccer talent. This showcase gives young boys the opportunity to be selected to a great college on behave of a college scholarship and a promising Soccer career. The next showcase will be held between December 27-30, 2011 and the onsite tournament registration is on December 26, 2011. The tournaments will be held at Lake Myrtle Sports Complex, Austin Tindall Regional Park, and Hess Sports Fields at ESPN wide world Sports Complex. Networking and attending is very important I'm excited I went to this event as Disney has many opportunities for the youth in performing arts and sports.

Resources: http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/events/soccer/soccer-showcase-boys/

http://disneyauditions.com/

Posted By: Sparkle Callahan

NBA Lockout is Now Over what about the Little people?

    Since the lockout is now over and the millionaires vs Billionaires have now conquered their goals, what about the little people? This has been a well over 6 month debate with athlete and NBA owners. Although, the athletes were not happy and owners were not content, they did not suffer as much as the little people. The little people are the structure workers such as parking attendants, vendors, maintenance workers, electricians and more. As a result of the NBA lockout many of these employees were out of a job. And fans were disappointed as their seasonal tickets went to waste. Restaurant owners such as Tavern lost over $1million dollars in revenue as well.

Due, to the NBA lockout there will be a price hike in tickets, but more empty seats as there are unsatisfied fans. Many people are excited that the NBA lockout is now over and see it as a christmas gift. But, there are many of the little people still suffering from this drastic 6 month ordeal. The question now is will there be some kind of discount or reimbursement for the disappointed fans and unemployment wages accomodated for the dislocated workers? while the NBA lockout debated about meeting common ground between themselves, there were the little people suffering. Many structured workers suffered with mortgages and livelihood, while the millionaires and billionaires debated amongst themselves. Currently, there are no days off within the NBA and everyday count. But, although there will many empty seats, the show will still go on. The lockout affected many people and more than what the owners and athletes of the NBA could ever imagine.


http://www.forbes.com/sites/sportsmoney/2011/12/02/why-the-nba-lockout-wasnt-so-bad-after-all/


Posted By: Sparkle Callahan

Sports Talk SHow Host Devan Wade Interview

It is a blessing and very inspiring when your able to connect and network with someone in your same career interest. I had the opportunity to interview Devan Wade, which is a sports talk show host in Houston, TX.

Devan Wade was very cooperative and inspiring when I asked him for an interview. His words of inspiration were “ I love to share and help others, especially Afro Americans who are ambitious.” Once I heard this I was very excited and knew I made the right selection because as an aspiring sports agent every little encouragement helps.

         Devan Wade has been a talk show host since 1992 and has had the opportunity of interviewing sports professionals, entertainment professionals and politicians. He was employed with The Houston Informer as a freelance editor for many years. The Houston Informer newspaper is the oldest African American newspaper west of Mississippi. Currently, Devan Wade is a talk show host for radio station KTSU in Houston, Tx and his show is titled “The Friday Express.”

         During my Interview with Devan Wade I was very interested in the following questions:

1. As a talk show host what kind of athletes do you mostly interview?

Devan: “I Work with retired athletes in Houston most with notoriety, such as NFL players and pro athletes and NBA players from all major sports. Most of the time I will set up my own interviews with folks from media relationships I have built over the years. Also, through personal relationships such as PR people. I interview athletes mostly when they are promoting something. Also some of the interviews come through the organization. For instance, like through their team or through their facility. I get many interviews during the athlete off-season because they come to promote their charity foundations or upcoming events.”

2. Which kind of athlete do you enjoy interviewing most?

Devan: “Honestly, it’s not much different. But, football players are most guarded, more relaxed, I’m not sure if it’s part of their contracts or what. But they are the easiest. I don’t have a real preference, but mainly concerned about what topic I choose to speak about. Houston is more football base, which allows me to focus more on football athletes and stories.”

3. Which athlete was the most exciting to interview?

Devan: “Most exciting interview I have had was with legendary former football player Jim Brown. He was entering into a lot of social things in the 60’s and broke a lot of barriers. He was the first leading black man to have a love interest for a white woman in the movie titled “Hundred Rifle.” I interviewed him a couple of years ago and he has a successful foundation called “Imerican I can.” We Sat for an hour and talked about sports and social issues as well, and the changes within the African American culture. This was my most exciting interview to date.”

4. What were some of the steps a soccer player took in becoming a successful soccer player?

Devan: “The Houston dynamo playing David Beckham and the La Galaxy is very successful. I have not spoken to any Soccer players. But, I spoke with the Soccer team president. My audience is not big in soccer, But Oliver luck I had the privilege of sitting down with. His excitement about bringing professional soccer to the city of Houston was our main discussion. The team which is currently in Houston called the “Dynamo” Oliver Luck was a big influence in bringing the team to Houston”

5. What and which athlete interview was your most heartfelt & memorable moment?

Devan: “My most heartfelt interview was with former boxer Gerald McClellan. He was a champion and he fought in London. He almost died because of severe injuries and became very sick due to brain damage. I spoke with him briefly between his sister and himself because sometimes he would forget or take a long time to speak. He had to raise a foundation for his kids, and many people in boxing forgot about him. It’s memorable as well because I always wanted to get in contact with Joe Frazier for an interview. But, I was not able to make that happen. I have interviewed Floyd Mayweather and I’m excited and waiting to see him fight boxer “Paqchioa”. I bring these boxers up because I had the privilege of interviewing Gerald. But, not Joe Frazier and I can say that I have covered the current major most relevant boxers interviews.”

Name: Sparkle Callahan

Interviewee: Devan Wade

Title: Host of Sports Talk

Twitter: @wadeword

Company: Host of KTSU's The Friday Express Houston Native

Contact info: KTSU 3100 Clebourne, Houston, Tx 77004

Ph: 713 313-7591 Fax: 713 313-7479

Blog Site: http://www.wadeword.tumblr.com

Boxer: Floyd MONEY Mayweather Social Media Presentation

In my Social Media presentation I will be discussing undisputed champion Boxer Floyd MONEY Mayweather. I will be discussing his enhancements as a social media participate, as well as analyzing his media presence thus far. Click the link below:


Presentation Link: http://www.viddler.com/explore/sparkle1/videos/11/

Sources:

www.floydmayweather.com
www.atlpics.net
www.prinyourpajamas.com/traditional-media-for-pr/
www.reuters.com/article/2011/05/13/us-twitter-celebrities-odd-idUSTRE74C3BA20110513

By Sparkle Callahan
Twitter: @sparklecallahan
Linkedin.com/sparklecallahan

Facilities Management Nov 6, 2011

In sports finances is very imperative to keep teams and the athletes going. However, pro athletes and major leagues suffer less or if not at all compared to the little leagues such as college sports. During, economic hardships there are still ways for the smaller leagues to survive. With the correct strategic planning with heartfelt ambition it can happen. In other words creating your very own events, and proposals to charity foundations. Being different by implementation can create creative ways to sustain economic hardship within a sports team.

         Mostly in the south college football passion drives financial stability. In 2007 5 of the top 10 revenue producers in college football was: Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Auburn and LSU. No matter what the recession and economic restraints are at the time these schools are still able to sell tickets, and have there contracts still in place with sponsorships. Because of their passion in the south they will always come out on top. Having passion for your league, will allow you to make ways to continue in prosperity. It is almost impossible to keep a college football league going every semester, especially if the team is not in the pro league. Therefore, passion will allow one to create events, write proposals and be different by implementation.

         Many lay offs and threats of canceling sports programs within the smaller college leagues have been threaten, especially in Louisiana. However, donors from the community helped out just in time before any tennis or sports division was omitted. When donors within your community help out and donate this is called passion.

         There are various ways I would be able to generate revenue for my sports division during a recession. The first approach I would do is create a wonderful and beneficial event, with a ticket purchase of $30.00 for non-students & $10.00 for students. I would have the event on the college campus of the team league. It would be either in the auditorium or out in the campus field. The event would consist of a mainstream or Pro athlete making an appearance at the school. The Pro athlete will be urged to speak to the students, faculty, community, and etc about the importance of sports/talent. The Pro athlete will sign autographs during, the allotted time set a side for a meet and greet and photos opts. depending on how much money need to be raised I will have this event with different Pro athletes once a month until we reach our goal.

         The second approach I would also utilize is writing proposals to charity foundations and various companies for monetary assistance for the college students. Since, I’m already experienced with writing such proposals I will be able to submit to many different organizations on the college behalf. I will explain to the organization benefits they would gain by donating for a good cause. It’s always someone somewhere willing to help and passionate about keeping programs continuing within a college. Which is why my target base will be charity foundations because they understand the importance of keeping students goals first.

Viddler Post: http://www.viddler.com/explore/sparkle1/videos/10/

Articles:

http://www.allaboutpresentations.com/2009/01/sponsorship-proposals-10-ideas-that.html

http://www.shiksha.com/getArticleDetail/2981/Organizing-College-Events-Teach-Crucial-Skills-To-Future-Team-Leaders

Posted By:

Sparkle Callahan

ADIDAS AND REEBOK MERGES IN AUGUST 2005

When I first heard or Adidas and Reebok doing a joint venture in year 2005, my initial thought was why? I thought why? because they are both household brand names and I did not see why it would be necessary to collaborate. However, Adidas felt that they could do better together than apart. Bringing both brands together would build a driving force mechanisms to the world of sports.

Germany's Adidas Saloman agreed to buy Reebok international for 3.1 billion euros. Although, Nike is a huge brand as well, Adidas & Reebok combined are ready to give NIKE a run for their money. Investors are willing and ready to give NIKE a huge challenge, with this new collaboration with Reebok and Adidas. The key to this this collaboration is for Adidas to expand their geographic reach. Adidas will focus on one geographic area, while Reebok will focus on another. The most important geographic area for Adidas is North America, as Adidas feels it is very imperative to conquer. Adidas goal is to be number 2 in the sporting goods market worldwide, and to create footwear and apparel that addresses a wider demographic spectrum. (187)

In 2005 the companies already saw $150 million dollars in annual savings collaboratively. This kind of money was seen through the world of Hip Hop music. Adidas and Reebok began to target NBA players and Hip Hop artists with endorsements, and product identity. Hip Hop artist Missy Elliott supported Adidas tremendously, while other Hip Hop artists such as Jay z & 50 Cent supported Reebok. Although, Adidas and Reeebok had their share of celebrity support, NIKE also had their celebrity support with Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods, as NIKE is not too much into the urban world, but have fairly made great advancement with these urban personalities. Adidas has been feeling heat from other brands as well such as Puma. However, this just drives Adidas to concentrate on a higher margin of innovation, along with its collaboration with Reebok.

Articles

http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/aug2005/nf2005084_8340.htm

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=rovell_darren&id=2123332

Posted By: Sparkle Callahan

The MMA denies Major media outlets at their sport events

April 2011 Although the MMA (UFC) is a sport, the confidence of them going totally mainstream has been in doubt. I found this article about the MMA very interesting because although they may not be seen as a total mainstream sport. They have denied major sports reporters and major media outlets press credentials. When a sport denies major press, this is also a way of saying they are denying going mainstream. Media outlets, reporters, journalists, press, bloggers, social media Guru's and etc are all the driving force to make one obtain their public awareness. The question that I asked is "what would make a sport division banned press and media from their event?"

The MMA sports is arguing that press and media outlets, service false materials to their readers about the MMA. According to President of the UFC Dana White, he did not consider some press outlets stories worthy of his PR clip file. Dana White banned the most prominent media outlets such as ESPN and CBS. The journalists that were denied press credentials were long time media supporters of the UFC, which were  ESPN Josh Gross and Loretta Hunt. According to a spokesperson at CBS '' We serve a growing base of MMA fans on CBSSports.com, so we're obviously disappointed the credential request was denied"

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/jeff_wagenheim/04/13/credentials/index.html

http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/Dana-White-We-only-credential-real-media-?urn=mma-156706

http://www.cagepotato.com/dana-white-never-forgets-espns-josh-gross-cbs-sports-loretta-hunt-and-sherdogs-jeff-sherwood-denied-media-credentials-for-strikeforce-diaz-vs-daley/

Posted By Sparkle Cllahan

NBA LOCKOUT 2011-2012

This newly lockout controversy with the NBA seems to be the biggest dispute within the past 5 years. After union president Derek Fisher non chalant attitude and the athletes stubborness, I find it quite odd to see former Chicago Bulls player Dennis Rodman state his opinion on the lockout. According to Rodman "I just think that…the players should bow down….In 1999 we (were locked out) and missed half the season, Most players don't give a [expletive] about the game. They want the money and all of a sudden they want unity. I'm not taking the owners' side. I think the players should look at themselves." Of course having this lockout cause athletes,  loose out on their money, although the flip side is, should the athletes just sign an agreement without mutual benefits?. According to Rodman the athletes need to just compromise and take the agreement for less money, instead of loosing money. Seasons are being canceled, fans, supporters and people are without jobs due to this 2 month lockout.


According to Gary Roberts "I said a year ago that the NFL would settle in the August, and I said the NBA would not settle and would probably lose the entire season, and I think that's exactly what's going to happen." The NBA loosing out on its entire season would definitely be a total lost for the athletes, because they will still have and unsettled case and a lost of revenue. According to NBA executive Billy Hunter he saw the day that 2011-2012 NBA regular season games would have to be canceled. I wonder why did Billy Hunter foresee this episode of events?


I really think that the owners should be able to make some more reasonable offers in regard to the agreement for the athletes. Also, it seem sort of selfish because their are fans and supporters who have paid for there season tickets in advance and had to get a reimbursement. This kind of behavior within the NBA is very inconsiderate and maybe more damaging to the brand than worrying about revenue. However, without a brand there is no way to really retrieve revenue. As of right now October 16, 2011 there still has yet been a determination in regard to this lockout, hopefully soon a decision will be made and the NBA can move forward or there will be an entire season missed!


http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/story/2011-10-11/What-you-need-to-know-about-the-NBA-lockout/50735802/1
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ycn-10205927

Marcus Jordan is The cause of UCF loosing its Adidas Sponsorship

In the world of sports there are many stipulations and protection laws that must be in place, for the protection of trademarks, patent laws, and copyrights. Over the years there has been many controversies with sports teams taking legal action against another team or company because of this matter. However, it is important to protect all brands, logos etc to avoid any sort of legal action.

Recently, Professional basketball player Michael Jordan son Marcus Jordan denied wearing an Adidas sneaker during his game. But, instead insisted he wear his father air Jordan Nike Air sneakers, although Adidas was sponsoring the UCF. When Marcus denied wearing the Adidas sneaker during his game, Adidas then terminated their sponsorship with UCF. The UCF is now suffering from any future sponsorships because of this matter. Part of the sponsorship all coaches, and athletes were suppose to wear the Adidas clothing. However, I guess Marcus saw this as a conflict of interest/trademark issue with his father brand Nike Air. The UCF lost its 3million dollar adidas sponsorship and any future Adidas sponsorships is also in question. However, Marcus argues the fact that the school said he could wear his father sneakers, although they knew they had a contract with Adidas. It was very important for Adidas to have the most famous athletes to wear their apparel during the UCF games. It would have been a mutual benefit for Michael Jordan's son Marcus Jordan to wear Adidas sneakers during the game.


Resources;

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/11/05/marcus-jordan-wears-dads_n_346783.html

http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_bianchi/2009/10/i-dont-blame-adidas-i-dont-blame-them-one-bit-in-the-controversy-regarding-what-brand-of-shoes-marcus-jordan-the-son-o.html

http://chicagoist.com/2009/11/05/jordan_wears_nike_adidas_bids_adieu.php

Posted By Sparkle Cllahan

Facility Management Post

In the world of sports they are suffering financial strains and changes due to the economy. There have been closed offices, lay offs, minor professionals leagues also have folded. However, throughout the financial strains and economical changes there are creative ways a facility manager can bring revenue, during slow times.

            There have also been tremendous financial cuts in the college world of sports. In Florida, football team the Florida Gators according to the Orlando Sentinel has been affected. Team Hats, jackets, and shirt sales has dropped and in 2009 football ticket prices were not increased, which was a reward to the fans. In other smaller colleges there were severe budget cuts and some sports eliminated on campus altogether. However, as a facility manager there are ways to create revenue to avoid these types of situations to occur. As a college student they are always looking for the next big event at their college.

            Since, I have experience in the field of event planning, I will first look into an event, or concert to generate funds for the college campus to keep their athletic department running. College students love entertainment and celebrity artist coming to their school to perform. As facility manager I would plan for a celebrity concert and sale tickets. I would choose a popular mainstream artist that I have a secure business relationship with, to perform for the College for free, but for a news worthy cause. This will be a mutual benefit between the college and the entertainer. The entertainer will gain press and philanthropic recognition, while the college will be able to keep their athletic department going by ticket sales. All proceeds earned from ticket sales will go to the college athletic department. Of course I would prepare this concert in advance for a great outcome and sale the tickets for $25.00.

            When a new arena or stadium is built it generates revenue because it’s new and the sports fans will want to support their favorite team. As a facility manager when there maybe economic losses for the bigger teams than college leagues, there are different approaches that are needed. The amenities in the facility is what matters most, you want to attract your customers by having the amenities they want at their fingertips. For example, I live in NYC and in my downtown area of Brooklyn rap icon JAY Z has partnered up with Brooklyn to build a stadium in the middle of downtown area where all the shopping malls, food, and businesses are located in Brooklyn. Many residents are complaining about the traffic that will be increased in their area, while others are excited that new jobs will be generated.

            Currently, the stadium is still in construction and is expected to open in mid 2012. In the Bronx area of NYC currently there is Yankee stadium where all the major baseball games occur. Yankee stadium has been in the Bronx for a very long time and is considered a historic site. The main key to success as a facility manager at the new stadium in Brooklyn would be to make sure the amenities are much better than Yankee stadium. As a facility manager I would make tickets reasonable and affordable for the fans, but I will apply a kids section for playtime, restaurants, better seating, a wider range of parking, High definition technology and more. The attraction of the facility will definitely generate revenue. The best key would be the best customer service and different amenities for all different groups of people.

 Video Link: : http://www.viddler.com/explore/sparkle1/videos/8/

RESOURCES:

http://www.frbatlanta.org/pubs/econsouth/econsouth_vol_11_no_3_sports_draw_fans.cfm

http://www.slideshare.net/celsesser/unit-3-sport-facility-management-and-event-planning

Posted By: Sparkle Callahan 

Tiger Woods sex scandal & his financial losses in 2009

I think Tiger Woods story of committing adultery on his wife was the biggest sports business story of the decade. It was a shock to millions of supporters, fans, family and media across the world when allegations of mega sport star Tiger Woods was cheating on his wife with multiple sex affairs. Due, to this high profile scandal Tiger Woods lost much respect from his fans, media and lost his wife, but on a financial scale he lost 22 million dollars worth of endorsement funds in year 2009. As one of the highest earning American athletes according to sports illustrated annual "Ranking 50" in 2009 Tiger Woods was making $92 million dollars in endorsements and in 2010 he was making $70 million. That is a 22 million dollar declination of endorsements in Tiger Woods financial lifestyle.

Some of the endorsements that backed out on Tiger Woods was AT&T, Accenture, Tag Heuer, Gillette, Gatorade, Electronic Arts, and Upper Deck. However, NIKE remained faithful as a sponsor of Tiger Woods as they saw his downfalls as something that will soon pass and Tiger will be back at sports greater than ever. Nike has been sponsoring Tiger Woods since 1996 and pays him 30 million dollars a year. Tiger Woods loosing endorsements also had an effect on his management company IMG. Tiger Woods lost of his endorsements cost his management 4.6 million dollars in fees. His sex scandal also cost him the following:

$180 million in personal earnings
$110 million in advertising income
$23 million in tournament prize winning
$30 million in fees of 3 golf courses
$17 million in appearances fees
$591 million in industry losses
$96 million of the woods brand EA sports Golf video games
$40 million in lost PGA tour ticket sales

As a multimillionaire this sex scandal in 2009 cost Tiger Woods alot of financial damage and lost of fans and a divorce from his wife. I believe this was the biggest business sport story in the decade because of the amount of Tiger Woods losses and although I'm not a huge Golf fan I knew all about the allegations set on Tiger because of the media. This case against Tiger was very high profile and it was scene and heard daily in 2009 when it first hit the tabloids.







Posted By Sparkle Callahan

Resource Links:

http://www.businessinsider.com/tiger-woods-lost-22-million-in-2010-endorsements-2010-7

http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/2010-06-20-endorsements-tiger_N.htm

CNBC Video Link:
http://video.cnbc.com/gallery/?video=1368367744

Interview with Celebrity Publicist/Manager Soulgee McQueen

Interviewer: Sparkle Callahan

Guest: Soulgee Mcqueen Celebrity Publicist/manager

Company: Mc Queen media Entertainment

Sparkle: Thank you for allowing me to interview you about the topic “Negotiation” within the entertainment industry.

Soulgee: Your welcome!

Sparkle: When negotiating a deal for your clients how do you separate the people from the problem? In other words how do you contain your emotions when it seems you may not be getting all you may expect for your client?

Soulgee:  My first approach when negotiating during meetings with different industry professionals is breaking the ice with them. Breaking the ice with them causes everyone to get comfortable. I may start out with talking about something we all have in common besides the project at hand. My emotions will never be involved because my main focus is atleast to walk away with something more than what I came in with. Emotions affect many negotiating deals because of unrealistic expectations that are set. Go into these meetings with an open mind to get an understanding and hear different point of views.

Sparkle: In every meeting do you obtain mutual benefits when negotiating for your client?

Soulgee: Honestly speaking some projects require more than one meeting, but the best thing about that is, when you have 2 or 3 meetings about the same client project you can almost guarantee there is some interest from the other party. The mutual benefit in this case for me would be I had more than one meeting, and now I have new ideas to pitch. Most times with new talent I see a situation such as this as a mutual benefit. In this circumstance it is considered mutual benefits because we both have a shared interest in regard to the same new client.

Sparkle: When representing new talent does their status of being a new artist have an affect on your negotiation approach?

Soulgee: I’m very well known in the industry for breaking and representing new talent. When negotiating new talent to music labels I have to present all their accomplishments thus far. I have to sell them to the labels and be confident of the great success they can produce. But, because I been in the entertainment business for quite sometime now most labels show interest because of my experience. New talent is most times the best talent to break because of their new status. In my experiences I found breaking new artist much easier than mainstream artist.

Sparkle: Thank you again for taking the time to sit and converse with me.

Soulgee: Your very welcome!

Posted By: Sparkle Callahan

Top Music Executive L.A Reid moves to Epic Records

Whats new? On June 16, 2011 word spread out that Long time music Executive L.A Reid new label home is now Epic records starting July 2011. A few months back L.A Reid left his long time home Def Jam records to be a judge on a music singer competition reality show tiltled "X FACTOR." L.A Reid will be reunited with acts he discovered and developed such as pop R&B star Usher and PINK. L.A Reid title at Epic will be chairman, he will be replacing songwriter Amanda Ghost whom controversial topics almost destroyed the company. Epic has already signed a new group called "Duo Karmin" who gained instant notoriety from there youtube cover of Chris Brown. L.A Reid has a great passion for Pop music and is currently looking for the next Rihanna, Kanye West or Lady Gaga. These artists are the kind of artist that are stars and are mutually assets to record labels. There is talk that L.A Reid will also gear Epic records towards more Urban releases as well. Which may not be a great look, although Epic has many Pop acts. Many acts will also be joint venturing with Epic records from labels such as Sony, Jive records and RCA. Acts like "OutKast" and Britney Spears will more than likely be apart of this new joint venture. Many say L.A Reid is bringing back the times when he first made a name for himself.230 L.A Reid on the T.V show X FACTOR is also giving out record deal contracts to the winner and 5 million dollars in cash. The winner will receive a recording contract with Epic records if they win. Some say it is very beneficial to the acts because they have an expert week after week telling them musical advice.288 There is also an open door for Hip Hop talent with likes of Jay Z, Lil Wayne and Drake. L.A Reid is taking nothing but superstars.





Posted By Sparkle Callahan
Entertainmentweekly.com
Billboard.com

New Reality Show "Ice LOVES Coco" premiers June 12th on E Television

New reality show "Ice LOVES Coco" premieres on sunday June 12th on E! Television network. The show will be about Ice T and his lovely wife Coco ultimate love and passion as a couple. Co-starring will be their new addition to the family, Old english bull dog and family pet, Spartacus. I have been seeing so many different video trailers promoting the show and it actually looks very interesting and funny. The show is compared to the old show "I Love Lucy." The show depicts their love life but also the humorous co-stars, which are also apart of their lives. I hear that Coco have a very fierce and sassy LGBT assistant who adores her and knows exactly what Coco loves. Also she has another assistant, which is very laid back, serious and make sure everything is top notch for Coco. Some of the characters of the show also include Coco's mom, sister, best friend, nieces and nephews.

Another part of the show is the renewing of the couple vows. Although they have been married for 10 years their love is like the 1st day they met. Ice T and Coco prepares for the renewing of their vows and the occasion takes place in Los Angeles at the "W" hotel. Some of the celebrity guests include Pimp magic Don Juan, comedian Katt Williams, rapper Snoop Dogg, old school artist Flavor Flav, and Ice T Hip Hop artist "KnightPKF." The renewal of the vows ceremony was catered with red velvet cupcakes, mini cheeseburgers, french fries, and macaroni and cheese. There also was a red carpet in which photographers captured the above photo of them walking to the hall where the ceremony would be held. There is so much more to the show as I hear and see the promotion taking place on the internet and the E network. As a publicist I'm so excited to see more of the show on sunday June 12th at 10:30pm on E! television.

Posted by Sparkle Callahan

http://www.aoltv.com/2011/05/04/ice-loves-coco-video/

http://www.eonline.com/on/shows/ice_loves_coco/index.html

Walking In My Own Shoes

Above is a picture of Dariel Pulliam my client and Best Friend who was of the LGBT community, I love him dearly and he will never be replaced. He was a awesome hair and make-up stylist to the stars, and so genuine at heart rest in peace poodie until we meet again. Dariel Pulliam definitely "Walked in His own Shoes."

Anti Gay bullying has become an epidemic in todays society amongst the LGBT community. However, overall bullying in school has became just as bad, because another kid may be different. Although, some kids maybe gay some may not be but only perceived as Gay. Dealing with this kind of abuse from your peers at an early age of 13-17 can be very devastating. I'm very inspired by Joel Burns sitting in front of the city council discussing the abuse of bullying and the effect it is having on teens. As Joel spoke he went along a list of names that actually killed themselves because they were teased in school. Asher Brown took his father gun and shot himself he was 13, Billy Lucas was perceived as gay and then hung himself he was 15, Justin Aaberg, Seth Walsh 13 years old hung himself and the list goes on. Teen suicide is raging in schools because children are being bullied, teased, pushed, shoved and embarrassed.

I have many friends and family members that are gay and they are the sweetest people to ever know. I don't see them as different I just see that their sexual preference is different. There are many things as friends we may not like the same of, for instance we may not like the same soda, or candy but we are still friends. Im so inspired by Joel telling his personal experience as well, that when he was younger he was teased and called gay because he was a little more sensitive than his peers. Telling your personal story allows you to help others get through when they see someone their able to relate too. It is very hard telling your personal business, but when teens are killing themselves and you have their same story it is time to speak out. Joel admonished the teens to get services and encourages them by saying " Give yourself a chance to see that life gets better." Even in the midst of Joel pain he is still able to encourage others because he can see the need for help. he goes along to say "If you feel alone things will get better, please stick around, please live long enough to be there to see it, things will change." Joel was also young teen Gay but he surpassed the temptation of suicide and he is speaking out to let that gay young teen know, if he made it through they will also. I titled this blog post "Walking in My Own Shoes" because everyone has their own set of problems, some may be the same but we all have to walk in our own destiny, the main key is to survive.


Posted by Sparkle Callahan

Reference:

Title: Joel Burns Tells Gay Teens "It Gets Better"

http://www.ted.com/talks/joel_burns_tells_gay_teens_it_gets_better.html

Entertainment: Underground Music Awards Show in NYC for Independent Artists

It is important to network and stay current within your specific industry. I have chose to speak about and be apart of the Underground Music awards in NYC as this show caters to the underground and Independent artist, whom have made an impact for that specific year of the wards show. Because my company Plentykashflow Entertainment is an independent label and provide talent management services it is definitely imperative for me to attend this event as a judge or an attendee. At this event the new and independent artist will showcase their talent and have their fan based to show and prove their talent is worth a record label signing them. At this event you have record label executives from major labels as speakers to educate the new talent on the music industry. There is always a huge chance that a new talent maybe signed at this event. There are A&Rs, radio representatives, industry managers etc at this event. Although, this showcase is for new talent, most times mainstream artists attend to show their support, ICE T, Jadakiss, styles p, Fabolous and much more have shown their support over the years. Giving out awards at this showcased shows the new and independent talent that their craft is being recognized. This event is annually and every year I show my support because it is always new talent that I can be an encouragement to.

What I love most about this award show is that it is not just catered to the music realm, but it also caters to DJ's, producers etc. The Underground Music Awards has 37 categories to show the new talent their accomplishments are appreciated by giving them an award. Because this event is only annually artists wait patiently and work hard the entire year to get a award. This event is a ticketed event for those that are not being honored and some of the proceeds will be donated to the Hope for Haitian Children Foundation. Many current mainstream artists actually has been signed by a major label from their showcase at the Underground Music Awards. Artists such as Nicki Minaj, Freeway, Papoose and much more. I admonish all new talent and independent artist to attend this event even though its ticketed if you are not being honored, because you never know who you just might meet. Its always possible you can be sitting to a major executive from a label, that can change your career path. The Underground Music Awards is the best place for an independent artist and new talent to showcase and network their talent.






http://www.undergroundmusicawards.com/
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/08/18/21900024.aspx

Posted By Sparkle Callahan
Twitter: @sparklecallahan

Celebrity Stylist Dariel D Pulliam Jr "Gone But Not Forgotten and Truly Missed"

(New York, N.Y. - Wednesday April 6, 2011) - It is with deep sadness that the McQueen Media team announce the death of our client and friend Dariel Pulliam Jr.

On Monday April 5, 2011 at the age of 28 Dariel has gone home to rest with God. Dariel’s true love for God allowed him to love everyone. Dariel Pulliam Jr. was a celebrity hairstylist known for his appearances on BET’s “Keyshia Cole – The Way it is,” “Tears Shears and Beauty,” and the “Frankie n Neffe show.”

Dariel’s career blossomed in Baltimore, MD under the guidance of Renea Whitherspoon, Rondy and Steeley Griffen, and Carmen Brown. From their training he learned how to manipulate current hair styles and produce new hair trends. After mastering his craft, he decided to move to Atlanta to pursue a freelance career while furthering his education and training.

While being in Atlanta for only a short period he became key hair stylist for multiple music videos, photo shoots, and runway shows. He has also been a featured hairstylist on the cover of national publications, and image consultant to established and upcoming artist, and a nation platform artist for major hair care distributors. While blossoming in his freelance career Dariel P. wanted to take on the hair competition arena. After winning his very first hair show he caught the competitive bug and went on to become one of the top hairstylists in the field winning the title as Atlanta’s best hair stylist in 2010.

Dariel Pulliam Jr. has been blessed to be the hairstylist to well known personalities such as Keyshia Cole, Neffeteria “Neffe” Pugh, Frankie Lons, Elite Noel, Fantasia Barrino, Kandi Burruss, Tameka “Tiny” Cottle, Adrienne Bailon,Tiffany Evans, Tionna Smalls and many others.  

Dariel Pulliam Jr. was loved by many and will truly be missed.

Dariel Pulliam Jr. family appreciates all your condolences and is asking for HELP with memorial donations. Please send donations for celebrity hair stylist Dariel Pulliam memorial services to address: P.O BOX 47001 Windsor Mill MD, 21244 or you can send donations via PAYPAL to sparkle@trioent.com and click on “Add Funds” this can be done by PayPal account users only as we are working on other methods for donations.

Memorial Service- Dear Atl Friends & Family Dariel D Pulliam Jr Homegoing Viewing is Saturday April 9,2011 at 6pm Grissom-Clark Funeral Home 227 E. Lake Dr Atl, GA 30317 come out & celebrate Dariel's Life "Gone never forgotten but truly misssed." 

Funeral Services will be held in Baltimore, MD dates to be announced

For any information regarding Dariel Pulliam Jr. please contact Dariel Pulliam manager/PR Sparkle Callahan at sparkle@trioent.com or 646-322-0376.

Posted By Sparkle Callahan & Soulgee Mcqueen

http://www.s2smagazine.com/stories/2011/04/atl-stylist-dariel-pulliam-dies

http://kiddunot.com/blog/2011/04/05/r-i-p-celebrity-hair-stylist-dariel-d-pulliam/

http://zuri1.com/2011/04/05/celebrity-hair-stylist-dariel-pulliam-jr-passed-away-r-i-p/

Follow on twitter: @sparklecallahan @soulgee @Darielloves

Glamour model COCO celebrates her 32nd Birthday Bash

Glamour model and actor ICE T wife "Coco" had a busy and wonderful past week as she filmed for her upcoming reality show and celebrated at her 32nd birthday bash. I had the opportunity to be apart of this experience because both ICE T & Coco are my clients. Therefore I had the opportunity to attend this industry related event and get first hand information on this entire project. Friday April 1, 2011 Coco celebrated her 32nd birthday bash at venue space Club Nikki Beach in New York City, where the "E network" filmed her party for a segment of her show. Although, there were not many people in attendance Coco had a wonderful time with close family members and friends. Coco list of attendees including her husband ICE T, close friend Rashida Ali (reality show basketball wives), Sparkle Callahan (publicist/in photo sitting at table laughing), Sachika Twins (celebrity designers), Jessica (coco best friend), Hollywood Chuck (event planner) amongst others. Coco had a catered dinner followed by her dance party, the whole entire time the event was being filmed by the E network. As curious fans looked on Coco signed many autographs and took many pictures too please her fans. Their were a numerous amount of media outlets in attendance as well to cover the event. As Coco partied the night away she had a table full of food, beverages, and cake & Ice cream. Coco had a fabulous night of camera, lights and action, along with her leopard fitted attire that was the talk of the night. Anyone who knows Coco knows she is very curvy and is not afraid to show it. I was very excited about this night because my client was very happy about how her event turned out. Stay tuned to the release of Coco new reality show, her new jean line "Liscious," and her new transition from glamour to high end fashion.

Posted by: Sparkle Callahan

Follow us on twitter @SparkleCallahan @cocosworld

References:  

http://bossip.com/364449/loco-for-coco-birthday-girl-shows-off-her-cakes-and-cameltoe30346/#

http://wonderwall.msn.com/entertainment/photos-coco-shows-her-stuff-during-birthday-bash-1612286.story