National Hip Hop Figures Take Stage at EMCC During Black History Month

A Dialogue with Charlie BraxtonHip hop journalist, scholar, poet and author Charlie Braxton comes to Estrella Mountain Community College to share his wisdom and experiences. As a writer, Braxton has contributed to a number of publications, including The Source, Vibe, Murder Dog and The Washington Post. He has interviewed and written cover stories on prominent hip hop figures like Outkast, the Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie) and Master P. His unique approach in merging politics and pop culture keeps him in the forefront as a sought-after commentator on issues affecting Black and hip hop communities. In addition, he is the author of his own book of poetry, Ascension From the Ashes, contributor to several Black literature anthologies and collaborator with fellow hip hop historian Kevin Powell in Hip Hop Speaks: Conversations About America. The dialogue with Charlie Braxton promises to be enlightening, thought-provoking and stimulating.When: Thursday, February 10Time: NoonPlace: Estrella Mountain Community College ?Student Life Lounge, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, (corner of Dysart & Thomas Roads) Southwest Black History Committee CommunityCelebration featuring Killer MikeNational rap recording artist and Outkast protég? Killer Mike, makes a special appearance at the Southwest Black History Committee Community Celebration at Estrella Mountain Community College on Saturday, February 12. Killer Mike, who took home a Grammy for Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group for his performance on Outkast's "The Whole World? recently released his own album titled Monster. The Atlanta resident is also known for his contribution to 2003's club anthem "Never Scared?with fellow rappers Bone Crusher and T.I. In addition, his music is featured in the NFL Street game for Playstation 2.The event will also feature various entertainment, vendors, art displays and a children's play area. For more information about this event, contact Linda Cutright at 623.935.8827.When: Saturday, February 12, 2005Time: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Place: Estrella Mountain Community College's Ceremonial Plaza, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, (corner of Dysart & Thomas Roads)Admission to both events is free. For more information about Black History Month activities at EMCC or to schedule interviews with the above guests, contact Keisha Truxillo, Office of Marketing and Public Relations, at 623.935.8054.Estrella Mountain Community College is a Maricopa Community College. Located on Thomas and Dysart Roads in Avondale, EMCC offers transfer-ready academic courses and job-specific occupational training to residents in the West Valley. Maricopa County Community College District is one of the largest community college districts in the nation serving more than a quarter million students annually. For more information visit www.estrellamountain.edu or www.maricopa.edu # # #