Pitbull and Nicki Minaj were on hand to announce the nominations for the 2011 American Music Awards in Los Angeles on Oct. 11. Leading the pack was Adele with four nods, including one for Artist of the Year. Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, Rihanna and Taylor Swift have three nominations each. The show airs live on Nov. 20.
On Oct. 8, Whitney Houston celebrated the launch of the Marion P. Candle line with her manager and sister-in-law Patricia Houston. The line consists of five scents inspired by a trip to Israel the two took together several years ago. A portion of the profits will support Patricia’s charity, Teen Summit.
Edwin V. Avent has resigned as president and publisher of Heart & Soul magazine following a successful six-year run at the helm of the publication. “It’s been a wonderful journey building Heart & Soul into a respected and much sought-after resource for African-American females seeking the latest news and information on health, fitness and lifestyle,” said Avent, who will remain with the magazine as a consultant.
It’s no secret that hypertension or high blood pressure is a silent killer in our community. Well, my dear friend Yolanda Adams was in New York City on Oct. 9 to help raise awareness about hypertension as part of Believe in Healthy BP, as presented by the good folks at Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Adams brought the house down with her presentation and led people through an interactive blood vessel exhibit. Visit believeinhealthybp.com for more information.
President Barack Obama will return to Los Angeles on Monday, Oct. 24 for a national fundraising gala specifically soliciting Latino support. No location has been set for the event, but invitations will go out shortly asking potential donors to save the date. Among the co-hosts are news anchor Giselle Fernandez and attorney Manny Sanchez. The event is being organized by the Future Fund, a group of Hispanic Obama supporters from across the country. Donations to attend the gala range from $1,250 to $35,800.