The 15th Annual Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, July 3 - 5th!

Check out Carol's Pix from Essence Music Fest 2008

Celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the ESSENCE Music Festival, July 3–5, 2009, in New Orleans, LA. It's the Ultimate Party Weekend with live musical performances each night, including Beyoncé, Maxwell, Lionel Richie, Anita Baker, John Legend, ESSENCE ICONS: An All Star Celebration of Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and much more.

See the nightly line-up below.

FRIDAY, JULY 3

Main stage:
Beyonce, John Legend, Ne-Yo, Salt N Pepa, DJ Soul Sister

Superlounges:
Eric Benet, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Solange, Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars, Keri Hilson, Marva Wright, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Preservation Hall Jazz Band Revue, Dwele, DJ Captain Charles, DJ Jubilee, DJ Dynamite Dave Soul and DJ EF Cuttin.

SATURDAY, JULY 4

Main stage:
Maxwell, Anita Baker, Robin Thicke, Charlie Wilson, Jazmine Sullivan, DJ Soul Sister

Superlounges:
Ledisi, Janelle Monae, Zap Mama, Irvin Mayfield, Dan Dyer, Little Freddie King, DJ Captain Charles, DJ Jubilee, DJ Dynamite Dave Soul and DJ EF Cuttin.

SUNDAY, JULY 5

Main stage:
Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Lionel Richie, Al Green, Teena Marie, En Vogue, DJ Soul Sister

Superlounges:
Raphael Saadiq, Lalah Hathaway, Melanie Fiona, Ryan Leslie, Blind Boys of Alabama, The Knux, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave All Stars, Rebirth Brass Band, DJ Captain Charles, DJ Jubilee, DJ Dynamite Dave Soul and DJ EF Cuttin.

The weekend also includes three days of Empowering Seminars FREE at the Convention Center with power speakers including Bishop T.D. Jakes, Dr. Juanita Bynum, Roland Martin, Tom Joyner and many more.

Single day Essence Music Festival tickets go on sale Friday, March 27 at 8 a.m. CST, ranging in price from $51-$200 plus service charges.

Weekend packages ranging from $153-$545 are also on sale.

Visit: http://www.essencemusicfestival.com for more info

Akon Live @ General Motors Centre, Oshawa, ON - Thurs Apr 30!

Akon Live at the General Motors Center on Thursday, April 30, 2009
Supporting Acts TBA
Time: 7:00 pm
Tickets: $39.50 to $69.50
Location: General Motors Centre, 99 Athol St E, Oshawa, ON
Visit: http://www.generalmotorscentre.com

Note: Akon also performs in Kitchener, ON on Wed, Apr 29. Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca for info

Adele Live @ Massey Hall, Toronto, ON - Wed Apr 29!

Holding the 2008 Grammy Award for Best New Artist, British soul/jazz singer-songwriter, Adele, has been hailed as the next big thing following the footsteps of fellow UK powerhouse artists Amy Winehouse and Lily Allen. Adele brings a variety of flavours to her music, notably stunning soulful vocals mixed with striking jazz beats. Don't miss her Massey Hall debut!
Adele, Massey Hall $34.50 - $39.50
Time: 8pm
Massey Hall's main entrance is located on Shuter Street, just east of Yonge Street.
http://www.roythomson.com/eventInfo.cfm?E=283&YearMonth=2009,3

India.Arie Live @ Queen Elizabeth Building, Toronto - Fri, May 15th!

India.Arie Live @ Queen Elizabeth Building, Toronto, CNE Grounds (Exhibition Place)

Fri, May 15, 2009 08:00 PM

CA $49.50

Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca

Seal Live @ Massey Hall, Toronto - Sat Apr 4!

In a career that spans more than two decades, Grammy Award-winning soul singer, Seal has sold more than 15 million albums worldwide. Known for his soaring, husky baritone voice and classic songwriting, Seal spans musical genres with emotional and romantic love songs like "Prayer For The Dying," the Grammy Award-winning "Kiss From A Rose," "Don't Cry" and "Love Divine" which have all delighted fans and earned him critical acclaim for over twenty years.
$39.50- $67.50
April 4, 2009 8:00 PM
For tickets visit: http://www.masseyhall.com/eventInfo.cfm?E=272&YearMonth=2009,3

Dionne Warwick Live @ Casino Rama, Fri Mar 27 & Sat Mar 28!

Fri Mar 27 & Sat Mar 28 - Dionne Warwick @ Casino Rama
Casino Rama, R.R. #6 Rama Rd., Orillia, ON
Tickets: $28.75 - $40.25
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

On the Scene at CBC's Steven and Chris Show in Toronto

I had the opportunity to check out a live taping of the Steven and Chris show last week. Canadian Design team Steven Sabados and Chris Hyndman are well known for their humourous antics and keen sense of style.

Sadly, CBC announced this week that their one year old show will be cancelled due to CBC's financial challenges and will go into hiatus after this season which ends mid-April.

But, you still have a few more weeks to become part of the studio audience and go home with some great gifts!

The episode that I was part of airs on CBC soon!

For free tickets to an upcoming show taping, visit http://www.cbc.ca/stevenandchris/

For more info on the duo, visit: http://www.stevenandchris.com/

Sizzla Kalonji Live @ Paramount Concert Theatre, Toronto - Sun Apr 12- CANCELLED

CVR ENTERTAINMENT Promotions writes ... We regret to announce the Cancelling of the Sizzla Kalonji Event carded for This Sunday April 12th, 2009. at THE PARAMOUNT Concert Theater. The event has been canceled Due to the Denial By The Jamaican Embassy And Also the Late Notice By Sizzla's Management. Sizzla was Approved By HRDC Canada and CVR Entertainment Company Obtained the work Visa for Canada Last Week. Upon arrival to The Jamaican Embassy Sizzla's Management learned that the Jamaican Embassy did Not Approve the Application and CVR ENTERTAINMENT was Notified 9:00PM Last Night By the Management of Sizzla. CVR ENTERTAINMENT Is Saddened By The Events that have Happened and are extremely apologetic to all of our supporters and the Sizzla fans who were excited to see the show. Unfortunately, It is out of CVR Entertainment's control and there is nothing we can do to change the Jamaican Embassy's decision. We did everything possible and went by the Books to make this event Happen for all of the Sizzla Kalonji fans In Canada. * PLEASE NOTE * If you purchased tickets for this event : Please return to where you purchased your ticket and You may get a full refund for your ticket. We do regret the inconvenience this may have caused but, due to the Denial Of The Jamaican Embassy, we feel that it is in the best interest of CVR ENTERTAINMENT as well as Sizzla Kalonji and his band to cancel this event. We are open anytime for Questions and/or any problems with Refunds of tickets or concerns CVR ENTERTAINMENT @ 647-928-6423 Thank you all for your continued support. CVR ENTERTAINMENT

Mavis Staples @ Massey Hall, Toronto - Sat Mar 21!

Massey Hall presents
Mavis Staples blazes a rhythm and blues trail, without relinquishing her gospel roots. She's a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and her remarkable gifts inspire, heal and uplift! Grammy® Award-nominated James Hunter gets it all rolling with infectious vocal and guitar performances, clever songwriting and a skin-tight band.
Tickets: $49 - $69
Location: Massey Hall, 178 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON
Visit: http: www.masseyhall.com

Big Daddy Kane Live @ the Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto - March 26!

Big Daddy Kane
The Phoenix Concert Theatre
Toronto, ON
Thu, Mar 26, 2009 08:00 PM
The Phoenix Concert Theatre
410 Sherbourne St., Toronto, ON
GENERAL ADMISSION
CA $29.95
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca

Chris Bosh Takes Time Out to Meet the SYRC Group!

Pix by Carol Allen

Last weekend, for the second year in a row, I had the opportunity to take some youth from Tropicana's Scarborough Youth Resource Centre (SYRC) to a Toronto Raptor's home game hugely due to generous support of everyone who contributed to Eddie Williams' Party With a Purpose recent fundraising event. The youth who participated were selected through an essay writing contest. The enthusiastic group enjoyed their own private meet and greet and photo opportunities with star player, Chris Bosh after the game. Although the Raps lost, they did manage to pass the 100 points mark in the last few seconds of the fourth quarter, which earned every ticket holder a free slice of pizza!

Big Thanks to Eddie and Adidas Canada for the goodie bags!

Girlicious Live @ the Opera House, Toronto, ON - Thurs, March 26!

WRN ENT Present:

Girlicious and Guests

Yes, you read it right! Girlicious will be performing live at The Opera House on Thursday, March 26th, 2009. This show is guaranteed to sell out very fast so make sure to get your tickets today (direct link is below). A nice intimate venue and Girlicious - going to be great!

For more information visit
www.myspace.com/WRNENT

Tickets @ www.ticketpro.ca and will be on sale on Wednesday
$35 Advanced
$45 door

Behind the Scenes on Carol's ET Canada Makeover

Here are some behind the scenes pictures from my Entertainment Tonight Canada Makeover that was aired on Global TV across Canada on Monday, March 2 and Tuesday, March 3. This was absolutely one of the most special days that I've ever experienced, and the opportunity to go shopping, get pampered and spend the day with my friends, Jules and Dee, who nominated me for this experience was priceless. Thanks to everyone who made this an incredible day for me and for your continued support.

Check out the full makeover on You Tube!

Visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kvsdbag8qjc
Carol

Humble Live @ Revival Bar, Toronto - Sun Mar 15!

Come and celebrate the release of Humble's new album 'everything' , his JUNO Nomination, and the two nominations he received from the Canadian Reggae Music Awards.

We would love to have you there!

Sunday, March 15 @ Revival Bar, 783 College Street West at Shaw, Toronto, ON

Tickets $15 advance, Door $20
Doors open 8pm
Showtime 9pm

For more info: Please call 416-795-4665
For advance ticket locations and to hear Humble's music visit www.humblemuzik.com now!

Watch Carol's Makeover Day on ET Canada! Mon Mar 2 & Tues Mar 3 @ 7pm on Global TV!

I have some great news! Recently, I was at home, opened my door and was shocked to see Entertainment Tonight Canada's camera crew along with Host Cheryl Hickey right there. My jaw was literally on the floor and I was speechless! It turns out that my Platinum Star partners and close friends Dionne and Jules nominated me to have a day of pampering with Cheryl. And, among hundreds of candidates, I was selected and I am just the second person to be featured on the show. I feel so honoured and blessed. So, on Monday, March 2 and Tuesday, March 3, you will get to see as ET Canada captures me while I shop, get my hair and makeup done and spend an afternoon with a professional photographer for a very special photoshoot. Be sure to tune in to Global TV at 7pm on both days and watch for some behind the scenes pictures right here, on C. A. Confidential!

Pix from Eddie Williams' Party With a Purpose Birthday Affair and Fashion Show

Fashions by Mocha Designs

Last Saturday evening, Toronto Promoter Eddie "Go To Man" Williams hosted his annual "Party With a Purpose" Birthday celebration complete with several hundred friends and a sexy fashion show at the Six Degrees Lounge in uptown Toronto. The event is an annual fundraiser which helps to support a Black History Month Essay Writing Contest in which participating youth have the opportunity to attend a Toronto Raptor's Basketball Game. Partial proceeds will also be donated to other youth-focused initiatives. An online donation link will be available until March 7, 2009. Visit http://partyforapurpose.eventbrite.com

Russell Peters' 20th Anniversary Tour Live in Toronto - Fri Jun 12 & Sat Jun 13 @ Air Canada Centre!

Russell Peters is back! Canada's best selling funny-man returns to his home and native land with his 20th Anniversary Tour. Russell celebrates 20 years as a stand-up by remixing some of his greatest hits of the past 20 years, plus all new material. These shows feature DJ's and video screens. Tickets will go quickly, so 'Be a Man' and get your tickets early for this 'Mindblasting' show!

Russell Peters
Air Canada Centre, 40 Bay Street
Toronto, ON
Fri, Jun 12 & Sat Jun 13, 2009 08:00 PM

Tickets: $52.50 - 99.75

Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca

Platinum Star Presents: Harmony--Celebrating All Women! - Saturday, March 14 @ Dazzling Lounge, Toronto

Saturday March 14 celebrate International Women's Day with us at HARMONY

* We will be blazing some BIG Joints dedicated to past & present DIVAS impacting Music *

inside DAZZLING Lounge
291 King Street West (at John St.), Toronto

Musical Vibes by: DJ Chris Nice & DJ Glen C

Hosted by: MC GQ and The Platinum Star Ladies

Ladies, get your names added now to the $5 before 11pm RSVP list.
Doors Open at 10pm * $10 before midnight * Dress Code to impress * Jeans are good

* Invites going out to anyone wanting to celebrate their Birthdays with us.
Let me know asap *

Contact info: harmony@carrebizness.com or call 416 410 7556

Visit: http://www.platinumstarentertainment.com

Spread the Word......

Obama's First Presidential Visit To Canada! - Thurs Feb 19, 2009

Courtesy CBC News and CTV News

Thursday, February 19th, 2009, was another historic day in the world of politics as US President Barack Obama made his first foreign visit since taking office about one month ago. Canada's capital city, Ottawa, Ontario played host as a couple of thousand anxious onlookers waited in the frigid cold and snow in hopes of getting a glimpse of the world's most popular man. And, luckily, after his arrival at the Parliament Buildings and a brief handshake with Prime Minister Stephen Harper, he stepped back outside to wave and acknowledge his devoted supporters.

After spending roughly six hours and meeting with other dignitaries including Canada's Governor General, Michaelle Jean and Liberal Leader, Michael Ignatieff, Obama prepared to whisk back home to Washington, D.C., but not before making an unscheduled stop at an Ottawa market filled with vendors. He reportedly picked up some beavertails, aptly named the "Obamatail," a very popular hot doughy Canadian pastry deep fried in oil and coated with cinnamon, sugar, whip cream, chocolate sauce and a splash of maple. He also managed to find a scarf for wife Michelle, a key chain and sugary maple leaf cookies for his daughters Sasha and Melia. Ahhhhhh

Pix from the Canadian International Autoshow 2009 - Ends Feb 22!

The Canadian International Autoshow is just days away from wrapping up.

The event, which is the largest car show in Canada, is showcasing vehicles from many of the popular automakers, although with a little less of the usual extravagant displays seen in previous years due to the gloomy current economic situation.

Haitian-born Car Designer, Ralph Gilles, was just one of the executives on hand to talk about their new models. Gilles is currently the VP of Truck and Jeep Design for the Chrysler Group and has been with them since 1992. He is responsible for designing the 2005 Chrysler 300.

Some of the Toronto Argonaut football players took time out to attend media day just days before the show's official opening. It takes place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and the Roger Center in downtown Toronto and ends this Sunday.

For more info Visit: http://www.autoshow.ca/2009/

Michael Bolton Live @ Casino Rama - Thurs Apr 2!

With chart-topping hits including: "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You", "When a Man Loves a Woman", "Said I Loved You But I Lied" & "Love Is a Wonderful Thing", this Grammy Award-winner a must see live.

Please note: You must be 19 years of age or older with valid government issued photo ID in order to attend concerts & events at Casino Rama.

Tickets start at $51.75

Thu, Apr 2, 2009 08:00 PM
Casino Rama
R.R. #6 Rama Rd., Orillia, ON

Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca

Britney Spears Live @ the Air Canada Centre, Toronto - Wed Mar 18 & Thurs Mar 19!

Britney Spears
Air Canada Centre, 40 Bay Street, Toronto, ON
Toronto, ON
Wed, Mar 18, 2009 08:00 PM
RESERVED STANDS

CA $37.50 - CA $150.00
General Admission Floor

CA $150.00
VIP Platinum Seats also available

Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca

K'Naan @ the Mod Club - Tues Feb 24!

K'NAAN
Mod Club Theatre,
722 College St., Toronto, ON
Toronto, ON
Tue, Feb 24, 2009 09:00 PM
GENERAL ADMISSION
CA $15.00
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca

Gyptian - Love vs Money Tour @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto - Fri Feb 13!

Live & Direct from Kingston Jamaica
Gyptian -- Love Vs. Money Tour 2009
Gyptian
Humble http://www.humblemuzik.com
Tonya P.
Soul Vibes . King Klepto
Hosted by Michie Mee
410 Sherbourne St., Toronto, ON
info: 416.451.2817 . 647.218.1330
a Roialtee Entertainment Promo
See flyer for ticket locations

Kuumba @ Harbourfront Centre - Feb 7 &8 and Feb 14 & 15

Kuumba | February Feb 7-8, Feb 14-15, 2009 - Harbourfront Centre Toronto

Weekend of Feb 7-8: From Africa to the World

Join us as we celebrate the rich history of the African drum and its relationship to music, dance and storytelling.

Weekend of Feb 14-15: Anniversaries and Celebrations

Honouring the anniversaries of three iconic Toronto organizations: A Different Booklist book store, the Muhtadi International Drum Festival and Up from the Roots.

Get the full schedule at: www.harbourfrontcentre.com/kuumba

Raphael Saadiq Live @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre - Mon Mar 16!

Live Nation presents Raphael Saadiq @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre, 410 Sherbourne Street, Toronto, ON
Mon, Mar 16, 2009 09:00 PM

SUPPORTING ACT: TBA
DOORS AT 8PM; SHOW AT 9PM.
THIS SHOW IS LEGAL AGE 19+.
CA $26.50
Onsale to General Public
Start: Fri, 01/30/09 10:00 AM EST

Tickets, purchased in advance through Ticketmaster, cannot be picked up at the venue. It is strongly recommended that tickets be picked up at least one day in advance of the show at your local TICKETMASTER RETAIL LOCATION

Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca

Harmony - Featuring a Special Musical Tribute to Bob Marley Hosted by the Ladies of Platinum Star Ent @ Dazzling Lounge - Sat Feb 7!

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7, 2009
Chris Nice, Glen C, and the Platinum Star Ladies come together to provide the perfect party vibe!
~HARMONY~
inside the stylish
Dazzling Lounge
291 King St. W. @ John St.
Music by
The 'Professional Choice' DJ Glen C.
DJ Chris Nice (Grooves & Rhythms Events)
Offering the best Classic Tracks and New Hits in complete harmony with the ultimate party atmosphere!
Celebrating the Life of the Late Great Nesta Robert (Bob) Marley on his 64th Birthday Weekend with a special musical tribute set
Plus, lots of give aways for the Tyler Perry's Madea Goes to Jail film in theatres February 20!
Hosted by MC GQ and the Platinum Star Ladies
Doors open at 10pm sharp
Dress to impress - Jeans are ok!
RSVP for $5 guestlist before 11:30pm by email to pstar@carrebizness.com
Bringing together the perfect balance of diverse people, music, vibe, attitude and energy you have grown to expect from Toronto's premier entertainment.

Party with a Purpose Celebrating Eddie Williams Birthday @ Six Degrees - Sat Feb 21!

A Valentine's Affair @ Delta Toronto Airport West - Sat Feb 14!

From the producers of the mega successful New Year's Eve Black Tie Affair,
Eddie Williams, Mark Anthony and George Fynn cordially invites you to the
Extraordinary & Unique

"A VALENTINE'S AFFAIR"
Lock and Key Style
Canada's upscale Urban Valentine's Event

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14th, 2009

Delta Hotel Toronto Airport West
5444 Dixie Rd (South of Hwy 401 Mississauga)

Formal reception starts at 8pm.....
Featuring An All You Can Eat Caribbean cuisine
Live Entertainment at 10pm With Juno award nominees Lorraine Reid &
Camille Douglas performing R&B, Slow Jams and Lovers Rock.

Plus Romantic Poetry delivered by one of Canada's premier poets

Mr. Al St Louis

Now Singles its time to Mingle with our lock and key let's get acquainted
Don't Be Shy ...... were the ladies get a lock and the gentlemen gets a
key.....put them together and see who wins the PRIZE or has fun trying.

This Valentine's Affair will be the best event in the city!! The energy
and excitement along with the perfect music mix.

"The Crowd Pleaser" DJ Mark Anthony
Taking you back with the best Old School R&B, Reggae, Lovers Rock, Soul,
House and more.

"The Mailman" George Fynn with today's hitz

D'ENFORCAS (Canada's #1 Soca Sound Crew)
Musical Host: BASS LINE the Voice of D'Enforcas
They'll spin the latest best R&B, Reggae, Soca, Old School, Slow Jams and
more... all night long.

Hosted By Eddie Williams

Special Guest Host:
Analysis In Hair - Mississauga
Easton (stretch) Hamilton

Admission
Dinner,Live Show & Dance $55 per person
Live Show & Dance $25 per person

Tickets Available at
Nappy's:
Mississauga 905 949-6787
Brampton 905 453-3037

Discount Beauty Supplies:
Scarborough 416 289-9689
Toronto 416 781-1679
Mississauga 905 848-2228

Analysis In Hair:
Mississauga 905 507-3535

(You can also can get tickets on line)
http://valentinesaffair.eventbrite.com

Black History Month Events @ North York Central Library - Sat Feb 7!

North York Central Library and Youth-Assisting-Youth are celebrating Black History Month by hosting a FREE half-day conference on Sat. Feb. 7, 2009 at North York Central Library.

Youth ages 12 and up can participate in workshops with inspirational guest speakers who will expand their minds. These speakers include Dwayne Morgan from Up from the Roots, Stacey McKenzie from Walk This Way, Anne-Marie Woods aka Amani from Imani Enterprises and a special guest performance by the Black Ice Step Team & Famous.

BUT this is just in!!! An additonal workshop has been added:

Youth now have an exclusive chance to meet Toronto-based writer/producer, Charles Officer, and teen actor, Daniel J. Gordon, of NURSE. FIGHTER. BOY. This is a new release by CFC (Canadian Film Centre) Feature Film Project which opens theatrically in Toronto and Vancouver February 6, 2009. This feature is about love, passion and faith in an urban setting. This award-winning film was shown at several film festivals including the 2008 Atlantic Film Festival and the 2008 Whistler Film Festival. Don't miss the chance to have a sneak-peek and discussion with Charles and Daniel. For more information about the movie, please check out www.nursefighterboy.ca

Registration can be done by calling Andre at 416-932-1919 ext 231. Space is limited. Don't delay and register today!

For full details about the conference, please see attached for media release and related publicity.

Pass this on to any youth you know. Thanks, Elsa=>

Elsa Ngan
Youth Services Specialist
Circulation/Browsery/Gateway Services/Hub
North York Central Library
Toronto Public Library
Tel: 416-395-5784
Fax: 416-395-5668
Email: engan@torontopubliclibrary.ca