Author Archives: Sonya's Spotlight
← Older posts Newer posts →“ALMOST CHRISTMAS” Red Carpet Screening in Atlanta
November 2, 2016In celebration of the release of Universal Pictures’ highly anticipated new film ALMOST CHRISTMAS, local Atlanta celebrities and influencers attended a red carpet screening on Wednesday, October 26th at Regal Atlantic Station hosted by WVEE-FM radio host, Ryan Cameron. The screening featured an introduction by Mayor Kasim Reed and the film’s outstanding cast including: Danny Glover, Mo’Nique, Gabrielle Union, Omar Epps, DC Young Fly, Keri Hilson with filmmakers Will Packer and David E. Talbert. The screening included a packed house with local influencers such as: Usher (R&B Singer), Queen Latifah (Actress), Tyrese (R&B Singer/Actor), Dwight Howard (Atlanta Hawks), Jasmine Guy (Actress), Chris Hicks (City Official), Ceasar Mitchell (Director, Atlanta Film Office), Towanda Braxton (WeTV’s Braxton Family Values), Andrelton Simmons (Los Angeles Angels Player), Ricardo Allen (Atlanta Falcons Player), Courtney Upshaw (Atlanta Falcons Player) , Zaytoven (Music Producer), Lenny Santiago (ROC Nation Executive), Wanda Smith (WVEE-FM), Frank Ski (WVEE-FM), Jazzy McBee (WSTR-HD3-FM), Rock City (Music Duo), Ben Tankard (Bravo’s Thicker Than Water), Keith Neal (Bounce TV Producer), Vanessa Bell Calloway (Actress), Christian Keyes (Bounce TV’s Saints & Sinners), Dawn Halfkenny (Bounce TV’s Saints & Sinners) and BJ Britt (BET’s Being Mary Jane) – just to name a few. A Look Inside: Go behind the scenes with cast and filmmakers to get an inside look at the hilarity and genuineness that created the magic of ALMOST CHRISTMAS. Check out the photos from the ALMOST CHRISTMAS red carpet screening below: Photo Credit: Paras Griffin/Getty for Universal Pictures Covered by Sonya Jenkins #AlmostChristmas
Posted in Photos, In The Spotlight | Leave a commentPharrell Williams Releases New Songs from ‘Hidden Figures’ Soundtrack
October 25, 2016Producer and key composer of the upcoming film, ‘Hidden Figures’, Pharrell Williams releases two new tracks, “Runnin” and “Surrender” featuring Lalah Hathaway from the movie soundtrack. Make sure to check out “I See A Victory” featuring Pharrell Williams and Kim Burrell releasing on iTunes on Friday, October 28th. Look for ‘Hidden Figures’ to arrive in theaters on Christmas Day! Hear “Surrender” below: Hear “Runnin” below: #HiddenFigures
Posted in Streaming | Leave a commentHOWARD UNIVERSITY HONORS RADIO ONE, INC. FOUNDER AND CHAIRPERSON CATHY HUGHES
October 24, 2016HOWARD UNIVERSITY HONORS RADIO ONE, INC. FOUNDER AND CHAIRPERSON CATHY HUGHES AS NEW NAMESAKE FOR ITS SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATIONS WITH STAR-STUDDED UNVEILING CEREMONY AND CELEBRATION Hosted by Anthony Anderson, Celebratory Program Featured Newsmakers and Entertainers Rev. Al Sharpton, Debbie Allen, Joe, Donald Lawrence, Vashawn Mitchell, Richard Smallwood, Russ Parr, Denise Boutte, Chrystee Pharris and More Howard University honored Cathy Hughes, founder and chairperson of Radio One, Inc., the largest Black-owned multi-media company in the country, with the unveiling of the Cathy Hughes School of Communications today. During an exclusive, star-studded extravaganza, the prestigious university commemorated her lifetime commitment to excellence. University and public officials Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, President, Howard University; Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD 7th District); Gracie Lawson-Borders, Ph.D., Dean of Cathy Hughes School of Communications; Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD 8th District); and Civil Rights Leader Rev. Al Sharpton recognized Hughes for blazing the path for African Americans in the media and communications industry. “She took the mute off of Black America,” said Rev. Sharpton. “We were on mute, we couldn’t talk. She made talk radio stations. She preserved our culture; she gave us TV One. We can speak for ourselves, to ourselves, and [that] is an enormous contribution to our people.” Hughes remarked that she was humbled to be honored by the institution that helped her find her voice as an educator and entrepreneur with a passion for her community. “My whole goal in life has been to get pertinent information to my community that they can use to uplift and improve the quality of their lives and their lifestyle,” said Hughes. “Becoming the namesake for Howard University’s School of Communicationsand having my life’s work celebrated – it’s like a dream! Hosted by Emmy-nominated actor Anthony Anderson (Black-ish), along with narration from radio host and film director Russ Parr, the three-hour celebration featured keynote speeches and performances from a variety of award-winning and notable entertainers, including writer/director/choreographer Debbie Allen representing Howard’s Board of Trustees; R&B artist Joe; and Gospel artists Donald Lawrence, …
Posted in R&B Pop Culture, In The Spotlight | Leave a commentAlmost CHRISTMAS in theaters November 11
October 24, 2016A new comedy from writer/director David E. Talbert (Baggage Claim) and producer Will Packer (Ride Along, Think Like a Man series, This Christmas), Almost Christmas tells the festive story of a beloved patriarch who asks his family for one gift this holiday season: to get along. If they can honor that wish and spend five days under the same roof without killing one another, it will be a Christmas miracle. The all-star cast of Almost Christmas is led by Kimberly Elise, Danny Glover, John Michael Higgins, Romany Malco, Mo’Nique, JB Smoove, Gabrielle Union, Omar Epps, Nicole Ari Parker, Jessie T. Usher and DC Young Fly. Check out Red Carpet Premiere photos from #AlmostChristmas here: http://sonyasspotlight.com/almost-christmas-red-carpet-screening-in-atlanta/ The 12 Days of Almost Christmas Music Video: The Meyers mix it up this year as they deliver exotic foods, kitchen dance parties and pure dysfunction for the holidays! #AlmostChristmas
Posted in Movie News | Leave a commentTYLER PERRY’S BOO! A MADEA HALLOWEEN in theaters October 21
October 9, 2016SYNOPSIS In TYLER PERRY’S BOO! A MADEA HALLOWEEN, Madea winds up in the middle of mayhem when she spends a hilarious, haunted Halloween fending off killers, paranormal poltergeists, ghosts, ghouls, and zombies while keeping a watchful eye on a group of misbehaving teens. Tyler Perry plays the roles of “Madea,” in addition to the roles of “Joe” and “Brian.” The film also stars Bella Thorne as “Rain,” Cassi Davis as “Aunt Bam,” Patrice Lovely as “Hattie,” Andre Hall as “Quinton,” Yousef Erakat as “Jonathan,” Lexy Panterra as “Leah,” Diamond White as “Tiffany,” Liza Koshy as “Aday,” Brock O’Hurn as “Horse,” Jimmy Tatro as “Sean,” JC Caylen as “Mikey,” Kian Lawley as “Bean Boy,” and Mike Tornabene as “Dino.” Official site: www.Boo.movie Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MadeaHalloween Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MadeaHalloween Hashtag: #MadeaHalloween
Posted in Movie News, In The Spotlight | Leave a commentLOVING in theaters November 4
October 9, 2016The landmark civil rights case Loving v. Virginia began when Mildred Loving wrote a letter to Robert F. Kennedy. 50 years after Mildred made her plea, everyone in the United States now has the right to marry who they love. Mildred Loving’s birthday was celebrated June 22. From acclaimed writer/director Jeff Nichols, Loving celebrates the real-life courage and commitment of an interracial couple, Richard and Mildred Loving (portrayed by Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga), who married and then spent the next nine years fighting for the right to live as a family in their hometown. Their civil rights case, Loving v. Virginia, went all the way to the Supreme Court, which in 1967 reaffirmed the very foundation of the right to marry – and their love story has become an inspiration to couples ever since. Loving will open in theaters in select cities on November 4, and will expand across the country later in November. Atlanta Press Junket – October 9, 2016 – Ritz Carlton Buckhead Check back for quotes from the press Junket in Atlanta.
Posted in On the Scene | Leave a commentBeyoncé – THE FORMATION WORLD TOUR – Atlanta
October 1, 2016With all the hype about Beyoncé and THE FORMATION WORLD TOUR, and missing it the first time it came to Atlanta in the spring, I was eager to see if the “Bey Hive” would really buzz in Atlanta again, September 26. Well, Beyoncé did not disappoint. Her performance – impressive and exciting – was filled with buzz-worthy, high-energy dancing, dazzling broadway-style effects, and her solid, strong vocals culminated into a performance that rocked the Georgia Dome more than a rival game between the Falcons and Saints. From the start of the concert Beyoncé was in formation – giving the audience performances from her latest CD, Lemonade, and tantalizing fans with past hit songs ranging from “Survivor,” to “Crazy in Love,” as she changed from one sexy outfit to another, flaunting her curvy, taut figure while her dancers gyrated beside her. In true Beyoncé style, the singer eclipsed into her “Sasha Fierce” alter ego, with a cut-throat edge – even uttering four-letter words from the lyrics to some of her songs. I intentionally listened to see if she would edit the language from her CD. She did not. And of course her attitude was, “I Ain’t Sorry,” which got fans dancing and singing along – some even trying to match her movements on “Sorry” and other songs. At one point in the 2-hour long show, Beyoncé kneeled and allowed one of her fans to curse for her. As the adrenaline got more intense onstage and in the audience, Beyoncé said, “Louder,” while her fans continued to sing every word to her songs. “Louder,” she repeated, clearly commanding her audience to an almost hypnotic level with her magnetic presence. I, too, was mesmerized – dancing and singing into my iPhone – to capture the moments. I had followed Beyoncé’s career since she was with Destiny’s Child in her …
Posted in Celebrity Profile, In The Spotlight | Leave a commentCongressional Black Caucus 2016 – Washington, D.C.
September 24, 2016The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) held its 46th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) Sept. 14-18, 2016 in Washington, D.C. This year’s theme was “Defining the Moment – Building the Movement.” The ALC is one of the largest public policy conferences in the country focused on issues impacting African Americans and black communities around the world. It attracts nearly 10,000 attendees each year and features more than 100 issue forums on education, employment, healthcare, economic empowerment, the African diaspora, cultural events and more. Special high profile events including a National Town Hall Meeting, emerging leaders series, the Annual Prayer Breakfast, Phoenix Award Dinner and an exhibit showcase with a procurement fair, free health screenings, authors pavilion and much more. It was an honor to receive press credentials and to also be a part of the Authors Pavilion, showcasing my novel SHAYLA’S CATCH for the second year in a row. I even got to give an impromptu chat about my romance novel via the Oracle Group. Of course the best part of my Congressional Black Caucus weekend experience was catching up with friends. Check out a few photos from my iPhone photo blog. Sonya Jenkins Photos by Alexander Williams & Sonya Jenkins MORE PHOTOS #CBC! Sonya Jenkins showcases her novel SHAYLA’S CATCH in the Authors Pavilion FLASHBACK Congressional Black Caucus 2015 The ALC is the leading policy conference on issues impacting African Americans and the global black community.
Posted in On the Scene, Photos, In The Spotlight | Leave a commentOMG Moment: Andre Is Crazy | Season 3 Ep. 1 | EMPIRE
September 22, 2016Recap – Wednesday, Oct. 5 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) Cookie (Taraji P. Henson) calls in a favor with mega-superstar Kitty (guest star Mariah Carey) to record a new song with Jamal (Jussie Smollett), hoping he will overcome his inability to perform. Meanwhile, Andre (Trai Byers) runs into some trouble and things don’t go as planned. Also, Cookie and Lucious (Terrence Howard) are at odds, Hakeem (Bryshere “Yazz” Gray) and Gram (guest star Romeo Miller) fight for Tiana’s (Serayah) attention, and things heat up between Cookie and Angelo Dubois (guest star Taye Diggs) in the all-new “What Remains is Bestial” episode of EMPIRE airing Wednesday, Oct. 5 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. _____________________________________________ OFFICIAL “EMPIRE” SOCIAL INFORMATION: OFFICIAL “EMPIRE” FACEBOOK: facebook.com/EmpireFOX OFFICIAL “EMPIRE” INSTAGRAM: @EmpireFOX OFFICIAL “EMPIRE” TWITTER: @EmpireFOX JOIN THE DISCUSSION: #Empire An All-New Episode of EMPIRE Airs Wednesday, Sept. 28 @ 9/8c on FOX
Posted in In The Spotlight, Sports & Inspiration | Leave a commentQueen of Katwe in theaters September 23
September 13, 2016“Queen of Katwe” is based on the vibrant true story of a young girl from the streets of rural Uganda whose world rapidly changes when she is introduced to the game of chess, and, as a result of the support she receives from her family and community, is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion. Directed by Mira Nair from a screenplay by William Wheeler, “Queen of Katwe” is produced by Lydia Dean Pilcher, p.g.a. and John Carls, p.g.a. with Will Weiske and Troy Buder serving as executive producers. The film stars Golden Globe® nominee David Oyelowo, Oscar® winner and Tony Award® nominee Lupita Nyong’o and newcomer Madina Nalwanga. For 10-year-old Phiona Mutesi (Nalwanga) and her family, life in the impoverished slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, is a constant struggle. Her mother, Harriet (Nyong’o), is fiercely determined to take care of her family and works tirelessly selling vegetables in the market to make sure her children are fed and have a roof over their heads. When Phiona meets Robert Katende (Oyelowo), a soccer player turned missionary who teaches local children chess, she is captivated. Chess requires a good deal of concentration, strategic thinking and risk taking, all skills which are applicable in everyday life, and Katende hopes to empower youth with the game. Phiona is impressed by the intelligence and with the game requires and immediately shows potential. Recognizing Phiona’s natural aptitude for chess and the fighting spirit she’s inherited from her mother, Katende begins to mentor her, but Harriet is reluctant to provide any encouragement, not wanting to see her daughter disappointed. As Phiona begins to succeed in local chess competitions, Katende teaches her to read and write in order to pursue schooling. She quickly advances through …
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