february issue of what's the 411? atlanta

I have a dream…

What’s the 411? We are a new Entertainment Monthly for Metro Atlanta

TM

February 2012

FREE

Special Black History Edition

www.The411ATL.com

TM February 2012 Edition

Christian p3

Entertainment p8

Beauty & Fashion p12

Black History

Valentine’s Day

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Welcome to What’s the 411? Atlanta We are the premiere free monthly magazine that answers the question of what to do in Atlanta for the Christian audience looking for “clean” entertainment. Atlanta is becoming known as the mecca for black filmmakers, play writers, artists and entertainers, which is a great asset for local residents. However there are not enough vehicles to promote these and other positive events. What's the 411? Atlanta is a new venue to help meet this need. Our goal is to become your preferred source for the best entertainment in Atlanta that is tasteful and fun; while also promoting emerging artists and small businesses. Our opening edition has a special on Black History events that celebrate the African American experience and a Valentine’s Day section with events that portray the real meaning of love. Check out events on What’s the 411? Where new memories await you…

Maxine Clark, Founder

Copyright © 2012 What’s the 411 Atlanta, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 925 Main Street, 300-16, Stone Mountain, GA, 30083. For advertising and general inquiries contact [email protected]. Please check the event website for the latest event information. Also note event prices may not include all applicable fees and taxes. Events are subject to change. Therefore, we cannot guarantee its accuracy or be held liable for incorrect information, omissions, mistakes or errors. We reserve the right to reject any material we deem inappropriate.

Cover credit: © Dvargfoto|Dreamstime.com

Christian Events

What’s the 411? Atlanta: Christian Events

Who said Christians can’t have fun? Check out these events that are sure to entertain and inspire.

3 February 2012

They Rose Above It All February 11 at 6:00 pm ∼ Show starts at 6:30 pm Advance Tickets $10, $15 Day of Show Rockdale County Auditorium, Conyers http://theyroseaboveitallthesequel.eventbrite.com "They Rose Above it All, the sequel" is based on a true story from the book by author VJ Washington.

Synopsis: A then 19 year old young woman was attending college, studying to be a lawyer, working to pay for her car and on her way to attend dance practice at church, when everything changed.

She was suddenly arrested for speeding and all hell broke lose. She lost her job, her car, could no longer attend college, and had additional charges added to her record that were not true.

For two years the family went through many trials and tribulations while going to court, changing judges, lawyers and even prosecutors. But the family had a strong Faith in God and knew that in due time, they would rise above it all. “My God tells me in Phil 4:13, that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. And I know that as this play continues to be displayed, others will know that they too are not alone and that no matter what they go through, they can and will rise above it all.” VJ Washington Author, Producer

Find more events at www.The411ATL.com


4 February 2012 Find more events at www.The411ATL.com

Livin Fat Comedy Stage Play February 26 at 3pm & 6pm| Tickets prices $20 College Park Auditorium, College Park www.sorealproductions.org Join the fun in this witty, insightful, and downright hilarious comedy. Times are tough for the Cooper family. Even though money is tight, their affection for each other is unconditional. Everything changes; however, when son David Lee, a college graduate is forced by the economy to work as a bank janitor.

A robbery ensues and he interrupts the action. In their haste to get away the thieves drop a bundle of money, which David Lee picks up—its $50,000! When the family finds out where the money came from, their principles are tested, and through faith they realize that the Lord works in mysterious ways and this time he’s working on their behalf. Directed by Chris Scott. Written by Judi Ann Mason.

SoReal Productions (SRP) is a Ministry dedicated to creating family-friendly plays and productions that all can enjoy, as well as educating the communities on AIDS/HIV prevention. SRP produces, directs, writes and tours with various productions that seek to positively change lives and families. SRP is best-known for the gospel stage play, “Deception “ written by Tina Wright, which toured in Atlanta, New York City, and the South Florida area. The company was founded in 1998 by Chris Scott and Tina Wright and a group of women who wanted to bring social change and awareness in St. Lucie County, Florida.

The Eyes of the Storm Stage Play February 3 at 8pm, February 4-5 at 3pm & 8pm| Tickets start at $35 14th Street Playhouse, Atlanta www.theeyesofthestorm.com

The Eyes of the Storm is an intense, riveting, and untold story that reaches an emotional climax. Follow the humor and crises of the Third Ward in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina as the community is bitterly shaken off its foundation by a desperate people struggling to survive in a new culture.

What is the significance of the “EYES” in the storm? The EYES of the storm is about varying perspectives during a storm. 1. How do you view yourself during the storm? 2. How others view you during your storm? 3. How God views you during your storm? What is the “STORM”? The STORM itself is a metaphor. Although Hurricane Katrina was very real and non-metaphoric to the people of New Orleans. The rest of the world could only watch what they endured-hence the eyes that judge you in your storm. The courageous people of New Orleans showed great tenacity and faith in the midst of poverty, racist comments by outsiders and the media.

No matter how bad your storm is your eyes should be focused on God…



Finding Eve Soul Café – Entertainment 4 Your Soul welcomes you to join us every first Friday for an Intimate and Unplugged Worship Experience!

We provide a positive and fun atmosphere for Christian couples and singles while featuring amazing artists, poets and more.

In February join us as we Praise, Party and Play! The Adams vs. Eves Play Date Edition will feature Gospel Musical Chairs & Taboo! Hosted by Christian Comedian Stephon Raickett with Special Guest Psalmist: Kyra Goldman, Korey Bowie and Kiesha Covington.

Finding Eve Soul Café Every First Friday| Next Date: Feb 3 at 9pm February Admission: $10 online, $15 at door February Location: 49 Boulevard SW, R-6, Atlanta www.findingevesoulcafe.com

Recurring Events

Lilburn Vibes Every Third Saturday| Next Date: Feb 18 from 7:30-9:30pm Free Admission | Coffee and delights available for purchase Location: 5514 Lawrenceville Highway, Suite A, Lilburn http://lilburnvibes.com Lilburn Vibes is a two hour live music event that is held in a coffee house setting. There will be a variety of talented artists from various genres displaying their talents with and unplugged sound. Lilburn Vibes is a great atmosphere to chill with friends, meet new locals, enjoy some coffee and music, or network with other talents.

The 47 Spot Every First Friday| Next Date: Feb 3 from 8pm-10pm Recommended donation $3 for students, $5 for adults Location: 5271 Lawrenceville Highway, Lilburn http://the47spot.com The 47 Spot is a Hip Hop Night, hosted by Adam and Belinda, designed to have the enthusiasm of a concert with the opportunity for networking among artists while providing top notch entertainment to all who attend.

Each month this one night event features a variety of artists who openly share their Lyrical Testimonies with a Hip Hop Experience through rap, song, and spoken word. The unique vibe of this multi-ethnic, non-competitive atmosphere inspires one to excel beyond the limits.



Book Release Celebration February 10 from 7pm-11pm | Admission $30 Space Atlanta, 1310 White Street, Atlanta http://afterthealtarcall-esearch.eventbrite.com

Join Jacqueline J. Holness as she celebrates the release of her highly anticipated book, After the Altar Call: The Sisters' Guide to Developing a Personal Relationship with God. This stellar event will include performances by Kendra Muñoz, former member of five-girl R&B group, ROXXI, that was an opening act for world-renowned Destiny's Child on a European tour. Emmy award-winning poet and sensual orator Hank Stewart--the motivational speaker, the inspirational poet, the author, the activist, the founder and president of the Stewart Foundation (a youth leadership organization) and the founder of Five Men on a Stool. Also included: a full-course dinner, door prizes, souvenir bags, and an autographed copy of After the Altar Call. Register early to secure your seat and book. Dress code: Cosmopolitan Chic. Theme: Valentine's Day. Couples welcome.

Interview with Jacqueline J. Holness

What inspired you to write After the Altar Call? I wrote After the Altar Call because it was the book that I desperately wanted to read when I rededicated my life to Jesus Christ after graduating from the University of Georgia in 1996. Many people find themselves confused after graduating from college because, literally and figuratively, it is a brand new world that we have to learn to navigate. Well, in addition to coping with being a recent college graduate, I wondered how I would conduct myself as a new Christian! If I would have had a book like “After the Altar Call,” it would have given me a road map of sorts to illuminate a path and help me avoid some of the pitfalls and detours I experienced on my journey. What is the one thing you want readers to know after reading your book? I want readers to know that they can live a victorious and fruitful Christian life through the inspiration and example of other black Christian women who may be further along in their Christian journey. These are real stories for real people! As much as I could, I tried to get these women to really share from their hearts, souls and minds so that readers would be able to have accurate portrayals of the Christian life. So many times in church, we focus on presenting our “Sunday best” and don’t share what is really going on during the rest of the week. I believe this book gives a more complete view of the Christian life. Is this your first book? How long have you been writing? Yes, it is. I hope this is the first of many ! I started my official writing career as an intern for The Christian Index, a Baptist newspaper and the nation's oldest continuously published religious newspaper when I graduated from college. I earned a bachelor’s degree in magazine journalism. But I started writing stories when I was six years old. In fact, my first grade teacher, Mrs. Roberts, gave me an award for “good story writing.” This award hangs on the wall in my office today! In fact, I have never wanted to do anything else. It is my calling .



Other Upcoming Christian Events

Red Letter Jesus Theater in the Square, Marietta | Admission $18-$24 | www.gospelofjohn.com Eleven years after his sold-out run of The Gospel of John at the Theatre in the Square, Brad Sherrill returns to deliver Jesus in his own words from Matthew, Mark and Luke. A live performance with original multimedia from Israel and Jordan.

Atlanta’s Most Powerful Voices Competition Jackson Memorial Baptist, Atlanta | Free Admission | www.heart.org/mostpowerfulvoices The Metro Atlanta American Heart Association has joined with UnitedHealthcare, Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, and the Atlanta Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, Inc. to educate residents about heart disease and stroke through a local gospel choir competition titled Atlanta Most Powerful Voices — Southeast Region. Church choirs, groups and independent artists of all ethnicities and denominations across the southeast are invited to compete for the title of the Most Powerful Voices Southeast Regional Champion, while raising awareness in their congregations and communities. Participating choirs will receive $1500 for 1st Place, $1000 for 2nd Place and $700 for 3rd Place. The winner will also be showcased at major American Heart/American Stroke Association events.

Feb 5- Mar 10

Feb 25

One Sunday Morning Rialto Center for the Arts, Atlanta | Tickets start at $30 | www.fjjproductions.com “One Sunday Morning” is a powerful, moving story of a family’s struggle with the loss of a Father, Husband and a church struggling with the loss of its Pastor during the most joyous time of the year! Watch out for the Grim Reaper, he is full of surprises yet. God has the final say! “One Sunday Morning” will make you laugh and cry.

Mar 3

Soweto Gospel Choir Fox Theatre, Atlanta | Tickets start at $65 | www.sowetogospelchoir.com Soweto Gospel Choir was formed to celebrate the unique and inspirational power of African Gospel music. The 52-strong choir, under the direction of Beverly Bryer, draws on the best talent from the many churches in and around Soweto. The choir is dedicated to sharing the joy of faith through music with audiences around the world.

Mar 4

Entertainment

What’s the 411? Atlanta: Entertainment

Whether home grown or visiting, artists in Atlanta provide entertainment at its best.

Jade Simmons February 18 at 8:00 pm | General Admission $28 Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech www.ferstcenter.gatech.edu Known for her musical creativity and electrifying stage presence, pianist Jade Simmons is committed to expanding the boundaries of classical music. Simmons released her debut CD in March 2009 for E1 Music entitled Revolutionary Rhythm, praised by Allmusic.com as "a thought-provoking, entertaining, and fun debut that easily establishes Simmons as a major talent.“ A native of Charleston, South Carolina, Jade completed her undergraduate work at Northwestern University under Sylvia Wang. While there, she co-founded the immensely popular percussion and dance ensemble Boomshaka!. Simmons also became Miss Chicago, Miss Illinois and ultimately first runner-up at the 2000 Miss America Pageant where she performed Chopin's Etude in C-sharp minor, Op. 10, No. 4, before a live television audience of millions. Ms. Simmons holds a Master's degree from Rice University, where she studied with acclaimed pianist Jon Kimura Parker. Jade Simmons is a Yamaha Artist.

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Universoul Circus February 9-26 | Ticket starting at $15 Turner Field – Green Lot www.universoulcircus.com

Attending UniverSoul Circus will be a transformational experience for the entire family and beyond. Witness parents dancing old-school in center ring. Kids of all ages will be jamming to new-school beats. So if you like what you see here, and we know you will, come on out to see the show. We’re on our way to becoming the most liked circus in the world! un

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Earl Klugh March 3 at 8:00 pm | Tickets starting at $36 Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech www.ferstcenter.gatech.edu

An Evening with GRAMMY® Award Winning Guitarist Earl Klugh featuring Special Guest Nelson Rangel. Earl Klugh has recorded over 30 albums in his multi-million-selling career including 23 Top 10 charting records – 5 of them No. 1 - on Billboard’s Jazz Album chart. Klugh is both a GRAMMY®-winner and Edison Music Award-winner among many accolades and has garnered 12 career Grammy nominations, the latest in 2009 for The Spice of Life. He has maintained a regular international touring schedule over the past 35 years, and also hosts and produces annual “Weekend of Jazz” events at two Forbes Five Star, AAA Five Diamond resorts, the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs and Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, SC.

Even with the many accomplishments of a long career, Earl Klugh doesn’t necessarily believe there is a peak level to playing guitar. “My enjoyment is searching out new things to play every day, and ways to play them,” says Klugh. “The essential excitement of music-making is renewed in every studio and stage performance…as if it’s the first time I’m doing it.” The Earl Klugh Group features special guest Nelson Rangell on saxophones/flute as well as keyboards, bass and drums in addition to Klugh’s signature style of guitar. A variety of songs will be featured from throughout Klugh’s career, as well as standards and classics arranged by Earl and the outstanding group of musicians that he is honored to share the stage with.


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The Delicate Flower February 4 at 3pm & 7:30pm| Tickets prices $25 14th Street Playhouse www.thedelicateflowerbook.com

True Amethyst Publications, LLC and The National Lighthouse Foundation are presenting a full encore production of the stage play The Delicate Flower. The Delicate Flower is a journey through short stories, affirmations, and poetry that gives you the ability to reach into your closet and confront what’s in it. After discovering the inner strength to confront your closet, you will soon be ready to deal and heal

from life’s challenges. The goal of this theatre adaptation is to bring this self-healing project to the stage in Metro Atlanta and around the nation. Additionally, the play seeks to rekindle healthy relationships with self and others. The overall aim is to help people who may be struggling with their identities or who may need encouragement to overcome hurtful events in their lives. The Delicate Flower has been structured as a choreopoem. There are twenty-seven petals (scenes) that comprise of monologues to take the audience through a powerful self-awareness journey using short stories, affirmations, and poetry. This dramatic production addresses issues of life that people are “afraid” to bring to the light. The Delicate Flower is a dramatic full length play with stirring musical numbers and compelling plot twists.


Ain’t Misbehavin’ February 17-March 4 | Various Times | Tickets start at $25 Earl Smith Strand Theatre, Marietta http://atlantalyrictheatre.com

Music by Thomas “Fats” Waller – Ain’t Misbehavin’, a Tony Award-winning celebration of the music of Thomas “Fats” Waller. An ensemble of energetic and irresistible performers and the hottest jazz band in town will bring down the house with a musical parade of thirty of Waller’s greatest hits. A joyously creative songwriter of the 1920s and 30s, Fats Waller penned over 400 songs in his career – many of which have entered the classic repertoire of jazz standards that are still being performed today. Ain’t Misbehavin’ pays tribute to his legacy and music, and includes the ever popular songs: “The Jitterbug Waltz,” “I’m Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter,” “‘T’Ain’t Nobody’s Biz-ness If I Do,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” “Find Out What They Like,” and “Your Feet’s Too Big.”



Other Upcoming Entertainment Black Man-O-Logues III 14th Street Playhouse, Atlanta | Tickets $30 | 11th at 4pm & 8pm, 12th at 4pm www.catchingdreamz.com There are enumerable perspectives on black love. There is the love that one exhibits when losing a loved one; the love that is engulfed in fantasy; love in denial, etc. “What runs through the head of a black man when he is confronted with the subject…Love.” The Black Man-O-Logues 3 continues to offer answers to the question of “How Does a Blackman Express Love”? In this 3rd Installment of the popular “the Black Man-O-logues” series, ten diverse characters offer a montage of experiences and perspectives on black love.”

Also showing Black Man-O-Logues I, Feb 18-19. Check event website for more details.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Fox Theatre, Atlanta | Tickets start at $25| Time varies, check event website www.alvinailey.org/atlanta Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater was founded in 1958 by dancer, choreographer and visionary Alvin Ailey, to bring African-American cultural expression and the American modern dance tradition to the world. The Ailey company has performed for an estimated 23 million people at theaters in 48 states and 71 countries on six continents.

Feb 11- Feb 12

Feb 16- Feb 19

STIR (Sounds, Thoughts, Ideas and Rhymes) Porter Sanford III Performing Arts, Decatur | Advance $20, At The Door $25 | 8pm-1am http://stir2012.eventbrite.com Featuring Joey Sommerville and Friends, R&B Sensation Tony Terry, Hosted by Comedian Lavar Walker. Also featuring Live Dancing, Thoughts and Ideas Cafe with Live Music and Poetry and much more!

Feb 18

Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta | Tickets $30-$90| Show starts at 8pm www.atlantasymphony.org Wynton Marsalis has been described as the most outstanding jazz musician and trumpeter of his generation, as one of the world's top classical trumpeters, as a big band leader in the tradition of Duke Ellington, a brilliant composer, a devoted advocate for the Arts and a tireless and inspiring educator. He carries these distinctions well. His life is a portrait of discipline, dedication, sacrifice, and creative accomplishment.

Mar 3

Beauty & Fashion

What’s the 411? Atlanta: Beauty & Fashion

Discover your natural inner diva with this month’s Beauty & Fashion events

‘Fro Fashion Week February 1-5 | Check event website for pricing and times Hotel Melia, 590 West Peachtree Street NW, Atlanta http://frofashionweek.com ‘Fro Fashion Week is the ultimate celebration of the natural woman. With consumer and professional workshops, natural beauty care bloggers, the stylish drama of the 'Fro Fashion Show', the penthouse party and unique on-site activations by leading brands in this space. 'Fro Fashion Week elevates the conversation above the level of trade shows and expos and makes it intimate, intellectual and attentive to the expectations of the sophisticated woman.

Curl Talk February 8| General Entry $15 | 11:30am-1:00pm 3348 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta http://curltalk.eventbrite.com

It's My Hair! Magazine invites you to attend Curl Talk. This is a fabulous event that allows you the opportunity to discuss hair care, hair products, see live how-to demonstrations, and receive free product samples and promotions. CurlTtalk is also a great way for business owners to showcase their products and services. Note: All payments must be made online. No walk-ins or payments at the door are allowed.


Black History Month

What’s the 411? Atlanta: Black History Month Events

Everyday people responses to…


Black History month is a good time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we want to go. What is the biggest challenge facing African Americans today?

“Coming together and learning to forgive. Also supporting other Blacks, like the Tuskegee movie”

Lyndon, Contractor

“People get in the way of themselves, they tend to have a negative self-image, this transcends race”

Paulette, Nurse

“Lack of motivation…, giving up before we even try”

Junior, College Student

“Still our lack of unity and our failure to recognize our true potential”

Rowena, Events Coordinator

“We need to stop minimizing each other”

Michelle, Nurse

“Pop culture, television, and video games are raising too many of our children. Instead of families that communicate, validate, facilitate, educate, provide structure and love for their children.”

Donna, Educator

“…if we concentrate on supporting each other, our whole community would have a better reputation…”

Lydia, Fashion Stylist

“Lack of recognition and pay for educators”

Douminique, Entrepreneur

“…lack of the “right” role models and resources”

Stephan, Marketing

“Unemployment, healthcare for the elderly and foreclosures ”

Evelyn, Retired



Local Activities

Atlanta History Center

130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta www.atlantahistorycenter.com Feb 11: Dancing Through Time: Apollo 11:00 am-4:00 pm Atlanta History Center explores history through music and dance − Live performances − Learn how dance affected the Civil

Rights Movement − Try doing stand-up comedy and

improv

Through Mar 4: Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing: How the Apollo Shaped American Entertainment The first exhibition to explore the Apollo Theater’s seminal impact on American entertainment.

Auburn Avenue Research Library

101 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta www.afpls.org/aarl Feb 2: The Colored Undertaker: Recovering the Life and Legacy of David T. Howard 7:00 pm In celebration of Black History Month 2012, the Auburn Avenue Research Library will host a presentation that pays tribute to one of Atlanta’s most extraordinary Black men of the late 19th- early 20th century.

Feb 9: Introduction to the Black Age of Comics: Past, Present and Future Community Discussion 7:00 pm In recognition of Black History Month and in collaboration with Onyx Con, the Auburn Research Library hosts a community discussion on the historical and contemporary presence of Africana culture and experience.

Other Related Events

Feb 11: Black Stars in Orbit: NASA’s African American Astronauts Community Event 4:00 pm Retired Deputy Director of Civil Affairs at NASA, Dr. Curtis M. Graves, will discuss his thirty year career at NASA and the extraordinary achievements of African Americans Astronauts and Scientists to the exploration of space. Feb 26: The “Kitchen” Doesn’t Lie: Kemetic Roots and African American Hair Historical Lecture 4:00 pm In collaboration with the Atlanta Chapter of Links, Inc., Auburn Avenue Research Library will host a presentation that will address the history of ancient Kemet/Egypt and explore African hairstyles and their relationship to the styles in the African American context.

Other Related Events

*ONLY OPEN TO STUDENT GROUPS* Fridays in February

10:00 am-1:00 pm Celebrate Black History Month at the Atlanta History Center. Each Friday, students experience African American history, culture and achievements during four historic time periods. Feb 3: A Day in the Life of a Slave

Feb 10: From Slave to Solider: The African American Experience in the Civil War

Feb 17: The Great Migration: From the Jim Crow South to the Harlem Renaissance

Feb 24: The Civil Rights Movement



Local Activities

Atlanta Underground

50 Upper Alabama St, Atlanta www.underground-atlanta.com Saturdays in February at the Underground Black in Film Series 2:00 pm The Black in Film Speaker Series is presented by the African American Cinema Gallery and The Peachtree Village International Film Festival. The series takes you on a journey along a path of success stories and triumphs of African American cinema artists. It is meant to inspire people to appreciate the value of black film and literature through creative thinking, dreaming and turning that dream into a reality. Q&A session with a panel of cinema experts immediately follows each session.

Film Schedule Feb 4: Uptown Saturday Night Feb 11: A Century of Black Cinema Feb 18: Driving Miss Daisy Feb 25: Soul Food (TV series)

African American Cinema Gallery Exhibit (AACG) 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm AACG is a touring multimedia presentation, which consists of an exhibit that covers numerous African American films, more than 100 actors and actresses, and many drama series and sitcoms.

Live Entertainment inspired by Black History Month 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Special performances including dance, poetry, music and theater in honor of Black History Month.

APEX Museum

135 Auburn Ave, Atlanta http://apexmuseum.org Every month is Black History Month at the APEX Museum. Founded in 1978, APEX’s mission is to accurately interpret and present history from an African American perspective in order to help all Americans and international visitors better understand and appreciate the contributions of African Americans to America and the world. Permanent exhibitions include:

Africa: The Untold Story Experience the rich history from 6500 B.C. to the Door of No Return

The Yates & Milton Drug Store This exhibit is a replica of the actual historic Yates & Milton Drug store established in 1923. The store was one of Atlanta’s first Black-owned businesses and was a cornerstone to patrons during segregation.

Hammonds House

503 Peeples Street SW, Atlanta www.hammondshouse.org Hammond House is an African American fine art museum with over 250 art works dating from the mid-19th century includes Haitian paintings, African sculptures, and masks. Current exhibition being held over until February 26th:

Contemporary Artists of Africa Here and Abroad An exhibition celebrating the beauty and power of contemporary African Art in Atlanta’s African community.

Features artists from Ghana, Sierre Leone, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Somalia and Liberia.



Other Black History Events Steppers Heritage Ball 2012 Georgia International Convention Center, College Park| Tickets $40 | 9pm-4am http://gooddeedsinternational.com Good Deeds International is rolling out the “Blue Carpet” during the height of Black History Month. They will be hosting a series of events from Feb 16-19. The main event, Steppers Heritage Ball is not to be missed. It is an elegant “All Black Attire” affair beautifully themed, “Celebrating Our Heritage – In Commemoration of Black History Month.”

Feb 18

Black History Month Parade Peachtree Street and Auburn Avenue | Free | Starts at 2pm www.blackhistorymonthparade.com Black History Month Parade is a parade that celebrates the culture, heritage, history and accomplishments of Black Americans in the United States and across the World. The parade will feature marching bands, entertainers, dignitaries, civic groups, unions, corporate groups, entertainment and fun for the whole family.

Feb 25

Black History Film Festival Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center, Decatur | All Day Pass $20 www.blackhistoryfilmfestival.com The 2nd annual Black History Film Festival will Educate and Enlightened Audiences of the Trials, Triumphs and sacrifices made by those who came before them. A showcase of our culture, beautifully crafted through the lens of Urban Filmmakers.

The Black History Film Festival is free for all Dekalb County Residents and Staff, simply bring your State issued, I.D., or utility bill .

Feb 25

2nd Annual Gwinnett County MLK Jr. Unity Breakfast “A Celebration of Black History and Diversity Awards Program” Shorty Howell Park Recreation Center, Duluth| Tickets $15 | 9am-11am http://rklmlkunitybreakfast-esearch.eventbrite.com The Rho Kappa Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the RKL Education Foundation, Inc. would like to cordially invite you to attend the 2nd Annual MLK, Jr. Unity Breakfast. The Breakfast will serve as an opportunity to celebrate the legacy of service of Dr. King and create an imperative to live out his legacy throughout our homes and our communities.

This years program will acknowledge and recognize individuals, groups and corporations within the Gwinnett community promoting diversity through leadership, innovation, and community volunteerism.

Feb 25

Valentine’s Day Events

What’s the 411? Atlanta: Valentine’s Day Events

Love is always in the air with these Valentine’s Day Events for all to enjoy.


Love Expressions February 10 at 8:00pm | Tickets $50 Hyatt Place, 7900 Mall Ring, Lithonia http://loveexpressions.eventbrite.com

It's that time Again!!! Time For " Love Expressions". A night filled with dinner, dancing, loving and much much more. Featuring a Live Band, Poetry and what ever else the night will bring. This is date night at it's finest. Gift and prizes will also be given out on this special night while supplies last. The Marriage club is designed to help marriages remain healthy. The Marriage club offers a variety of marriage enrichment seminars, dating awareness classes, premarital guidance, love expressions workshop, renewal getaway and the coordination of the Date Night Experience.

Interview with Host, Kris Sonny

What motivated you to start Love Expressions? Love Expressions was started as a Date Night Experience hosted By the Marriage Club. We wanted couples to have a positive outlook on marriage and dating. Many times as Christians we don't have an outlet and our Christian lives are boring. When we were in the world we had all the fun, but being saved doesn't mean that life stops. As a matter of fact, God came that we could have life and have it more abundantly. This is the message that we want to share. Also it is provides singles and engaged couples a glimpse at what a Godly marriage can be. We want them to see God and cause them to desire to live their lives as he has instructed us. In the end we are promoting healthy marriages and relationships. Why did you name your event Love Expressions? We really don't express our love enough for our spouses or mates. Many days go by and we don't let them know how much we love and appreciate them.

Therefore Love Expression came out of the need for us to express our love more. It's like a bank you have to deposit love in order to withdraw love. How long have you been hosting Love Expressions? This is our 2nd year of hosting this type of event. Last year we had what was called "The Love Thing" which was very successful and this year we have " Love Expressions".



Sinless in the City, 2nd Annual Cufflinks and Stilettos February 12 | 6:00pm-10:00pm |Tickets $10 | The Juke Joint, 200 Peachtree Street, Atlanta www.sinlessinthecity.com

Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint and the new WIGO AM 1570 presents S.I.T.C, 2nd Annual Cufflinks and Stilettos Pre-Valentine’s Day Affair.

Come experience an evening of networking, dinner, a relationship panel Q&A, dancing, mingling and featured performances. Artists include: Danetra Moore, Eric Nettles, Delra Harris, Antonio Allen, Unknown Lyric, Anjolic Sky, Comedian Cletus Kassady and more…

Dress code: Wear RED in your clothing

About S.I.T.C The purpose of Sinless in the City (S.I.T.C) is to provide Christians with a social event for business networking, fellowshipping, and a place to meet other Christians outside of their church.

Since November 2010, SITC Atlanta, has provided hundreds of Christians with a memorable experience.

SITC Atlanta occurs every first Friday.

Come out for an evening of fun, love, and romance. Share your original poems, songs, raps, and jokes or be a part of a loving and supporting audience. Love is an important part of being a Christian. Bread of Life International Ministries, Inc. is a Bible based body of believers. Our mission is to glorify God, to lead people to Christ. To disciple according to the scripture, "go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15

Love is in the Air Open Mic Night February 10 | Show starts at 8pm | Admission $5 Bread of Life Int’l, 4187-D Snapfinger Woods Dr, Decatur www.breadoflifeinternational.org



Michael and Yolanda Dupree, of Yolanda Dupree Ministries Inc., personally invites you to attend this awesome retreat.

You will enjoy enlightening sessions, fun activities, and personal rejuvenation. You will also experience great food, exciting entertainment while meeting great people.

Our retreats are attended by couples that are happily married as well as those that are going through life's challenges. This is considered a safe-zone for couples to work on their differences while our leaders pray for and work with them.

We have different price points to fit every budget. Come and allow our staff serve you and your spouse during this amazing weekend.

Totally Committed! Couple’s Retreat Valentine’s Day Weekend February 17-19| Packages starting at $70 Hilton Airport Hotel, 1031 Virginia Ave http://smgwcouplesretreat.webs.com

Ultimate Valentine’s Weekend Celebration Atlanta Civic Center, Atlanta | Tickets $80| Show starts at 8pm www.atlantaciviccenter.com Sassy Mitchell and Twlight Productions presents The Ultimate Valentine Weekend Celebration hosted by MC Lightfoot with featured artists Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds with special guests Eric Benet and Kevon Edmonds.

Feb 10

Other Valentine’s Events

Taste of Love An Evening of Food, Wine and Philanthropy Ritz Carlton Buckhead | Individual Tickets $250| 7:00pm-1:00am www.epilepsyga.org A Taste of Love is an annual fundraising gala of the Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia. Held each year at the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead and attended by 600 prominent Atlantans. The Taste of Love treats guests to a night of gourmet dining prepared by Ritz-Carlton chefs, live entertainment and a wonderful silent and live auction featuring exciting getaways, fine dining, luxury items, sports packages and more.

Feb 11

The Gift of Love Painting for Couples Studio I6, Riverdale| $20 per couple| Door opens at 6:30, Painting 7:00-8:30pm www.sevenartscenter.com Come enjoy wine, share good company, and foster your inner artist. Share time with your love one and paint a 16x20 inch painting. Includes brushes and paint. Canvas boards sold separate.

Feb 11

february issue of what's the 411? atlanta

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