The “My VOICE, My VIEW, My VOTE” Digital Shorts Launches Social Change Initiative for the Next Generation of Filmmakers

Michelle Obama

WASHINGTON /PRNewswire/ — At the Democratic National convention, former first lady Michelle Obama’s encouragement that people tap into their power to “do something” about injustices are still reverberating across the nation. Students at Howard University can recall a similar urgency last year when Barack and Michelle Obama presented Rustin, the Netflix biopic about Bayard Rustin, the architect of the August 28, 1963’s momentous March on Washington. They spoke of being a voice for change and how one act can make a difference during the inaugural 2023 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival.

This year, student filmmakers are inspired to make an impact by submitting a digital short for the My VOICE, My VIEW, My VOTE I Aspire mobile challenge for the 2024 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival at Howard University. By answering how they will be ‘The Next’ changemaker in their community, directors must capture a digital short of :59sec or less on their mobile devices and submit it on social media (Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube Short, Threads). Entries must include the hashtag, #IAspireChallenge when uploaded to social media. Three place finalists will be awarded 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place prizes and announced in October 2024. Each winner will be featured at the 2024 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival taking place November 8-10.

With the Democratic nominee for President of the United States being a graduate of an HBCU and a proud alumnus of Howard University — this historic moment in history aligns with HBCU First LOOK Film Festival’s theme: “A Celebration of Black Cinema X Activism.” Since the March on Washington, when Black actors linked arms with civil rights leaders in the fight for racial equality, Hollywood stars have used their power to galvanize for equal rights. And today is no different, HBCU alums in arts and entertainment have built bridges for the next generation to be the change in their communities with their vote.

The 2nd HBCU First LOOK Film Festival (HBCUFLF) will take place on November 8-10, 2024 at Howard University in Washington, D.C. This year’s highlights include the ‘I Aspire’ 100 List, HBCU First LOOK App; the source for the intersection of Black cinema and activism; HBCU First LOOK Film Challenge will be announced with a host of entertainment industry leaders, filmmakers, speakers and participants, screenings with the Beyond the Lights! Career & Vendor Lounge. Sponsors and media partners include AARP, Café Mocha Network, Howard University Television + Film. Howard University Television (WHUT), HBCUGO.TV, Howard University Radio Network SiriusXM Channel 142 and L.A.I. Communications
Social platforms @hbcufirstlook #hbcufirstlook #blackfilmmakers #myvoiceviewvote #IAspirechallenge

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Sheila Eldridge – Sheila@milesaheadentertainment.com Visit https://www.hbcufirstlook.com/filmfestival.

SOURCE Miles Ahead Entertainment

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

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Napa Valley’s most famous wine event will make its East Coast debut this winter, providing unparalleled access to prestigious winemakers and celebrated chefs from January 17 – 19, 2025

BOCA RATON, Fla. /PRNewswire/ — South Florida’s iconic resort and private club, The Boca Raton, announces tickets are now live for its highly anticipated Artisans of Wine & Food weekend, taking place January 17-19, 2025. The first-of-its-kind event in partnership with the esteemed Napa Valley Vintners will bring together more than 75 winemakers, 20+ celebrated and Michelin-starred chefs, and immersive programming for a celebration of fine wine and food that promises to become a coveted annual tradition. Gourmands can purchase tickets for the event here.

The multi-day experience, presented by Capital One, will be orchestrated by some of the world’s most renowned culinary minds such as legendary Chef David Breeden, famed Chef and Restaurateur Mario Carbone, and a dinner curated by an all-female line-up of top chefs matched with female-owned wineries/winemakers.

The weekend culminates with a gala where attendees will indulge in a four-course dinner artistically directed by Fabio Trabocchi, Michelin-Starred Chef and Restaurateur of Washington DC’s Fiola and Boca Raton’s Fiolina Ristorante. As the evening unfolds, guests will have the opportunity to bid on fine wines, luxury experiences, and bespoke getaways, in an exclusive auction hosted by international auctioneer Jacqueline Towers-Perkins.

“For the first time, we’re bringing the heart of Napa Valley to the East Coast in an unprecedented showcase of wine and culinary talent,” said Daniel A. Hostettler, President & CEO of The Boca Raton. “It’s a privilege to host these celebrated vintners and chefs, and we’ve crafted an extraordinary event for Club members and hotel guests to toast to a truly worthy cause.”

The wine auction’s proceeds will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County and Napa Valley.  This charitable initiative highlights The Boca Raton’s dedication to supporting local neighborhoods and investing in youth development through educational and enrichment programs.

SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Friday, January 17

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• Choose from a series of exclusive dinners hosted by celebrated vintners of Napa Valley:

• • The Great Cabernets of Napa Valley four-course dinner will showcase a modern interpretation of a chophouse menu with big bottle cabs, featuring Chefs Will Cox of The Boca Raton, Nathan Rich of Twin Farms, Chris Huerta of Old Edwards Inn, and Adam Young of Sift Bake Shop.
    
  • At Bella Notte, dine like family during an Italian feast by James Beard Award-winning Master Chef Mario Carbone of Michelin-starred restaurants Carbone and ZZ’s Clam Bar.
    
  • Dinner En Plein Air is curated by female vintners and Relais & Châteaux chefs, Jennifer Backman of The Inn at Castle Hill, Sarah Steffan of Blackberry Farm, and Lindsay Autry of Honeybelle – PGA National, with a dessert course by Pastry Chef Jessica Quiet of Ocean House.
    
  • The Premiere Napa Valley Dinner offers a barrel tasting of Napa Valley’s rarest micro-lot wines, an opportunity to select and wear Lugano Diamonds during the tasting, and indulge in a multi-course menu by Michelin-starred Chef Stéphane Andrieux of Château de la Treyne and Sebastien Feneyrol of The Boca Raton.
    
  • A Culinary Celebration of Caviar dinner with Executive Chef Edgar Panchernikov boasts dishes from the world’s only Michelin-starred caviar house Caviar Russe.
    
  • Icons of Napa Valley offers an intimate, al fresco dining experience showcasing exceptional Napa Valley wines with menus prepared by Chef David Breeden, former Chef de Cuisine at The French Laundry–a role he held for nearly 20 years.
    
  • Latin Flavors four-course dinner by Chef Adriano Venturini of Eden Roc Cap Cana, a Relais & Châteaux resort in the Dominican Republic.
    
  • An Argentine Asado BBQ served on The Boca Raton’s fairway, features food stations and dishes using traditional asado techniques and modern twists, live music, and single-site wines.
• An Artisans After Hours event presents chef-curated hors d’oeuvres, alongside premium wines and music by Vintner and DJ Jason Lede. Close out the day in style while mingling with winemakers and celebrated chefs.

Saturday, January 18

• Vintners Invitational Golf Tournament: Play side by side with vintners and chefs for prizes provided by Bugatchi and TaylorMade, complete with continental breakfast at The Boca Raton Golf Club.
  
• Winemaker Series: Seven different intimate educational tastings led by Napa Valley’s renowned winemakers and vintners. Take part in discussions that spotlight the unique terroir and signature wines of the region, featuring BOND Wine, Groth Vineyards & Winery, Oakville, among several others. Topics include Mountain vs. Valley Floor, a Riedel performance tasting, wine & caviar pairings, and more.
  
• The Discover Napa Valley Tasting Pavilion featuring more than 125 world-class wines and over 20 restaurants: Guests can drift through the tented Grand Lawn and relish in great sips and decadent tastings along the way.
  
• Modern Meritage on the Spanish Terrace: 12 celebrated chefs prepare their personal favorite burger recipes paired with craft beer in an al fresco setting.
  
• Yacht Tour of Lake Boca: Enjoy a one-hour charter on open water accompanied by a vintner for relaxed and intimate conversations while indulging in world-class wines.
  
• Sip & Shop with Worth Avenue: Sip on sparkling wine and rosé while browsing through the collection of six high-end boutiques from Palm Beach’s famed Worth Avenue. Boutiques include Brioni, Carolina Herrera, Anne Fontaine, among others.
  
• Artisans of Wine & Food Charity Auction and Gala featuring a four-course dinner directed by Fabio Trabocchi, Michelin-Starred Chef and Restaurateur of Washington DC’s Fiola and Boca Raton’s Fiolina Ristorante: Bid on artisan-crafted bottles, luxurious delights, and bespoke getaways. Auction led by globally-recognized auctioneer Jacqueline Towers-Perkins, with proceeds benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County and Napa Valley.

Sunday, January 19

• To the South with Love is a Southern brunch experience hosted by International BBQ Entertainer Jack Arnold and a curated selection of Palm Beach restaurants. Delight in a final send-off, complete with live jazz music, and a sparkling wine bar.

Stay up to date on news and developments at ArtisansofWineandFood.com. Follow along on social media @artisansofwineandfood.

The Boca Raton
The Boca Raton originally opened in 1926 as The Ritz-Carlton Cloister Inn. In the 2020s, it celebrates its most remarkable evolution and its 100th anniversary. The property provides year-round escape, exclusively for members of The Boca Raton Club and resort guests. Five hotels amid 200 waterfront acres include Cloister, Yacht Club, Beach Club, Tower, and Bungalows. The unveiling of Beach Club in December 2024 marks a major milestone in The Boca Raton’s storied history, serving as Phase II of the resort’s transformation. The Boca Raton’s culinary offerings showcase a world of flavor, with signature restaurants in partnership with Major Food Group. Resort amenities include a private beach, the Forbes Five-Star Spa Palmera, an 18-hole golf course, a full-service marina, Racquet Club with 14 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts, retail shops, seven swimming pools, and various water activities at Harborside Pool Club, state-of-the-art fitness clubs and wellness collaborations. For reservations, call (561) 447-3000 or visit TheBocaRaton.com.

Capital One
At Capital One, we’re on a mission for our customers – bringing them best-in-class products, rewards, service, and experiences. Capital One is a diversified bank that offers products and services to individuals, small businesses, and commercial clients. We use technology, innovation, and interaction to provide consumers with products and services to meet their needs. Through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment, we provide our rewards cardholders with access to unforgettable experiences in the areas they’re passionate about, including dining, music, sports and the arts. Learn more at capitalone.com/dining and capitalone.com/entertainment.

About the Napa Valley Vintners 
The Napa Valley Vintners nonprofit trade association has been cultivating excellence since 1944 by inspiring its nearly 550 members to consistently produce wines of the highest quality, provide environmental leadership and care for the extraordinary place they call home. NVV has invested more than $230 million in community healthcare, youth development and the environment in Napa County, and is dedicated to improving diversity and championing inclusivity in its community and in the wine industry. Learn more at napavintners.com. 

SOURCE The Boca Raton

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The excitement is palpable as the 2nd Annual HBCU First LOOK Film Festival prepares to take center stage at the historic Howard University in Washington, D.C., from November 8-10, 2024. Celebrating the richness of Black cinema and the inspiring creativity from Historically Black College and University filmmakers, this festival promises an unforgettable experience for attendees.

A Premiere Celebration of HBCU Talent

The HBCU First LOOK Film Festival holds a unique position as the nation’s only festival dedicated exclusively to celebrating HBCU-educated filmmakers, executives, and content creators. With a focus on “A Celebration of Black Cinema x Activism,” this three-day fête is not just about showcasing films; it’s about building bridges from HBCUs to Hollywood, offering invaluable opportunities for networking, learning, and career development.

Unveiling an Impressive Lineup

This year’s festival features a stellar lineup of celebrities and changemakers, including NAACP Image Award-winning actress Naturi Naughton-Lewis, who will be engaging in a revealing conversation about the power, passion, and perseverance required in today’s entertainment industry. The discussion will be moderated by none other than Emmy Award-winning host and comedienne Loni Love.

Additionally, attendees can look forward to a masterclass with showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll, known for her work on “All American” and “Found.” For those seeking career advice, Keanna “KJ” Rose, a 2024 “I Aspire” 100 honoree and FAMU alum, will provide invaluable insights into career development.

Spotlight on Cinema and Activism

The festival doesn’t stop at panels and discussions. It also features film screenings, including a talkback session with the cast and crew of the true crime series “Killer Relationships with Faith Jenkins.” The My HBCU Joy Awards Luncheon is set to honor notable figures such as Keshia Knight-Pulliam and Stacy Milner.

One of the festival’s highlights is the HBCU First LOOK Film Challenge, which this year received over 200 submissions. The challenge provides a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their talent, with three winners set to receive internships, fast-tracking their entrance into the film industry.

Engaging Sessions and Iconic Films

Participants will delve into rich discussions celebrating iconic Black film titles. Sessions like “STRICTLY BUSINESS” will explore independent filmmaking and entrepreneurship, while “THE BLACK GODFATHER” will cover documentary filmmaking and music licensing. Attendees can also look forward to sessions inspired by films like “BEAUTY SHOP” and “DREAMGIRLS,” offering insights into costume design, character makeup, and the journeys of young Black actresses.

Save the Date and Be Part of the Movement

For students, filmmakers, and cinephiles, the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival is an unmissable event. Tickets are available at hbcufirstlook.com and through the HBCU First LOOK Festival app. Follow the festival’s social media platforms for the latest updates and join the conversation using hashtags #hbcufirstlook, #blackfilmmakers, and #IAspirechallenge.

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A Festival with Vision and Purpose

Founded by Howard University alum Sheila Eldridge, the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival is more than just a festival; it’s a movement aiming to inspire and equip the next generation of diverse talent in the film and television industries. The festival’s mission is supported by a robust lineup of sponsors and media partners, including AARP, NBC Universal, and Howard University Television + Film, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful experience for all participants.

This November, come celebrate a vibrant community of storytellers and creators who are redefining the future of cinema, right here at the heart of Howard University. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an industry professional, or a lover of cinema, the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival is set to be an inspiring and transformative experience.

From Howard to Hollywood

Read the press release: https://www.hbcufirstlook.com/post/hbcu-first-look-film-festival-announces-2024-i-aspire-100-2nd-annual-festival-returns-to-howard-un

SOURCE Miles Ahead Entertainment

Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at STM Entertainment and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/

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