ASH�: ANGOLA 3 Starts this weekend at ASH� Cultural Arts Center New Orleans

ANGOLA 3 STARTS THIS WEEKEND AT ASH� CULTURAL ARTS CENTER. This is a must-see event.

Divine Prince - Kasamba

Divine Prince - Kasamba

April Events at ASHE Cultural Arts Center

Amazing April Events Await You At Ash� Cultural Arts Center Dear Ty, April at Ash� just got a little hotter! This just in . . . . On Monday, April 16, help us welcome Cuba's exciting group of artists, OMNI Zona Franca. We are delighted to have them in the house. Meanwhile, in this amazing month, we celebrate DOVIA Volunteers and Ash� Members at a reception especially for them. And then, why not enjoy a film, "Hell and Back Again," learn how to raise funds for your nonprofit, and belt out a few at our community sing with Michaela Harrison. Please note, the Workplace Wellness Luncheon has been rescheduled to April 26, 2012. Read on for more about these and other exciting events.

Direct from Cuba: OMNI Zona Franca Monday, April 16, 2012, 6-8 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd Free and Open to the Public Come hang out with OMNI Zona Franca,a Cuba-based multi-disciplinary collective formed by Amaury Pacheco, Eligio P�rez and David Escalona OMNI Zona Franca presents hip hop with a message. Despite institutional rejection by the Cuban government to this movement and anything "alternative," this courageous group has been able to give voice through strong messages. Poets who have "official acceptance," as well as those who are independent, renegades, or marginalized have a stage Theycreated "The Endless Poetry Festival" which provides a space in which all artists can share their thoughts, dreams and disapointments with the world. The group offers a unique blend of performance music, poetry, spoken word, rap, visual art, graffiti, video, and public art. Ash� CAC and Sistahs Making a Change are pleased to have them in the house. For more information, call (504) 569-9070. Free. Caf� Reconcile Hosts "How to Make it Panel" April 18, 2012 | 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1724 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Open to Youth Only Join us as our Rising Stars discuss how they "made it" in the challenging culinary profession. Rising Stars are up-and-coming chefs and culinary professionals who represent the vanguard of contemporary American dining scene. They have strong, compelling culinary philosophies, are able to see beyond the four walls of their restaurant, and are committed to fostering a culinary community by sharing their knowledge with fellow professionals. Caf� Reconcile is a nonprofit restaurant and training ground for students who want to gain skills in the food service industry. For more information, call (504) 568-1157. To learn more about Rising Stars, visit http://www.starchefs.com/cook/events/rising-stars/2012/new-orleans. Seminar: Getting Your Board and Volunteers Excited About Fundraising Thursday, April 19, 2012 | 4:00-6:30 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. $35 The Funding Seed presents workshops and seminars of interest to nonprofit organizations, and to individuals interested in learning the ins and outs of grant writing. This very special event will give in-depth information on and the how-tos of fundraising. Who Should Attend: The non-profit organization with a vital mission and a team of dedicated individuals who are passionate about changing the world. What You Need: Funding to help enable you to reach your goals. How the Funding Seed Can Help: The Funding Seed provides practical coaching and tools, helping you to raise the funds that will allow your non-profit to reach its full potential. See the flyer below for online registration or call (504) 569-9070 for more information. Volunteer and Member Appreciation Reception Thursday, April 19, 2012 | 6:00-8:00 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free Ash� Cultural Arts Center and DOVIA say "Thank You" to its volunteers and members at this annual appreciation reception. If you've volunteered at a nonprofit associated with DOVIA or are a card-carrying member of Ash� Cultural Arts Center, this is your party. Attendees will move to the sounds and excitement of Bamboula 2000 and the Bamboula dancers, and enjoy refreshments and beverages selected especially for this occasion. Again, if you are a member of Ash� or DOVIA, or a volunteer with either, come out and have fun mingling with old and new faces. Please RSVP to (504) 569-9070. Community Cinema - "Hell and Back Again" Friday, April 20, 2012 | 6:00 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free and Open to the Public What does it mean to lead men in war? What does it mean to come home - injured physically and psychologically - and build a life anew? This story follows the U.S. Marines Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, as they launch a major assault on a Taliban stronghold in Southern Afghanistan. Within hours of being dropped deep behind enemy lines, Sergeant Nathan Harris's unit is attacked from all sides. The parallel story begins with Sergeant Harris's return home to his wife in the U.S., after he is severely injured. He's in terrible physical pain, and becomes addicted to his pain medication. But his psychological pain may be worse, as he attempts to reconcile the immense gulf between his experiences at war, and the terrifying normalcy of life at home. After the film, a talkback session will be led by clinical psychologist Dr. Denise Shervington, director of IWES; Ronald Fletcher, MSW, LCSW, director of Educators' Delight; and the New Orleans Association of Black Social Workers (NOABSW). Fletcher will give his own testimony regarding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. NOABSW will be available for on-site screenings and will also accept referrals for assistance. Call Drena S. Clay at (504) 569-9070. Theater: Angola 3 Three weekends: April 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 and May 4, 5, 6, 2012 Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. | Sundays at 3 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. General admission: $15. Sseniors and students $10. At door: $20 and $15 Experience the stage play Angola 3. Written and produced by New Orleans own Parnell Herbert. Directed by New Orleans own Chakula cha Jua. Performed by New Orleans actors. Learn the true ongoing story of three men who were allegedly framed for murders they did not commit. It is claimed that this imprisonment was done to silence their movement aimed at changing the penitentiary mentality of inmate sexual bondage, rape, brutality and murder in the United States' bloodiest and most brutal penitentiary. Two men, Albert Woodfox and Herman Wallace, who still proclaim their innocence, remain incarcerated after 40 years--longer than anyone in recorded history. Experience this amazing story and hear about their strength and perseverance in the face of extreme adversity. Ronald King has been exonerated. Herbert, by way of Poetic Panther Productions, along with others continue to work hard for the release of Woodfox and Wallace. You cannot live in or say you're from New Orleans and not know this story. Come see the production, and sign the petition for their release. Tickets are available at Ash� Cultural Arts Center. Call (504) 569-9070 for more information. A Community Sing with Michaela Harrison Tuesday, April 24, 2012 | 6:00 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free and Open to the Public Like to sing? Let loose at Ash�'s monthly community sing. Led by songbird and actress Michaela Harrison, you just never know what the theme might be--movie and television series theme songs, favorite western songs, childhood songs, etc. No singing experience necessary. Bring your friends and family and come prepared to sing. For more information, call (504) 569-9070. Workplace Wellness Luncheon Thursday, April 26, 2012 | noon-1:30 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free and Open to the Public Bristol M. Williams, DDS, will address the topic: "Your Dental Health" Dr. Williams practices periodontics in Georgia. Join us as we explore and learn about the benefits and pitfalls connected to proper or improper care of your teeth and gums. RSVP to (504) 569-9070.

Registration open for The Funding Seed's April Workshop: Getting Your Board & Volunteers Excited to Fundraise! Click to register! Is your board of directors expected to raise money for your nonprofit? Are they performing the way you need them to? Do your most dedicated volunteers help grow the funds for your organization? This workshop will provide you with simple tools to help your board members and volunteers become engaged, excited and successful in fundraising. Details & registration here. Getting Your Board & Volunteers Excited to Fundraise! Thursday, April 19, 4:00-6:00 p.m. Ashe Cultural Arts Center 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, New Orleans Registration $35; discounts available for students and organizations registering two or more people. Attendees will receive a Certificate of Participation for completing the workshop. For questions, to inquire about discount codes, or to reserve your space and pay at the door, emailinfo@thefundingseed.com. Register at www.thefundingseed.com. While it is not required, we recommend that both a staff member and aboardmember from your organization attend this workshop for maximum effectiveness.

Easter 1968

April Events at ASHE Cultural Arts Center

APRIL 2012 SISTAHS MAKING A CHANGE 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Every Monday and Thursday - No classes Thursday, April 5, 2012 Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans Free and open to the public Regular dance class will be taught at 6:00 p.m. each Monday and Thursday by Giselle Nakhid. Featured guest instructor : Iesha (Belly Dancing) on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. Stay tuned-- we just might be bringing Zumba back. So come and get fit with the "sistahs" as you exercise and dance your way to wellness. The program is directed by Jamilah Peters Muhammad, a registered nurse and professional dancer, who handles all aspects of programming, such as dance, educational films, nutrition, and health and wellness. Monday at 7 p.m., enjoy the film series "Unnatural Causes," pertinent to Place Matters. A nutritious meal is served after each class. No dance experience required. For more information, call (504) 569-9070, or just show up ready to move. KUUMBA INSTITUTE SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION NOW OPEN - Hurry--space is limited. Through June 4, 2012 Register 10:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m, Mondays through Fridays; or at the Kuumba Institute, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1724 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans Tuition and registration fees apply. Give your kids, ages 6-16, a cultural arts experience they'll never forget at the Kuumba Institute, operating June 4-July 20, 2012 from 8:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. Students receive specialized training in visual arts, dance, martial arts, voice, stepping, yoga, photography, poetry, Capoeira, arts & crafts, drama and African drumming. Students are served breakfast, lunch and a snack. In addition to providing them with various means of artistic expressions in a classroom setting, they gain exposure through field trips and off-site performances. Each session concludes with a culminating experience where students share with family, friends and the community, artistic expressions which are created from instructional inspiration. Registration Fee: $35 per child. Tuition: $250 if registering one child, $350 for two children, $450 for three children. For more information call (504) 569-9070. CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION FORM AND FLYER. BARBERSHOP MEETING -- FATHERS' TIME Wednesdays, April 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2012 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans Free and open to the public The Barbershop Meeting happens weekly and focuses on issues of importance to the growth and well-being, especially of young men. Men of all ages are invited to join the discussions and to give input based on their life experiences. This meeting affords the opportunity for goal-setting, sharing and reflections. Come and bring a few friends. Peter Nakhid leads the discussions. For more information, call (504) 569-9070. RETREAT: CALLING ALL MY SISTAHS Saturday, April 7, 2012 | 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. $40 Wholey Living Simply Living, Inc. presents Calling All My Sistahs, a day retreat and gathering of African American women. "A Call to Well-Being, Living in Purpose & Creating Sistah Circles" will be held sunrise to sunset, beginning at the river and ending at the lake. Call Nana Nantambu at (404) 931-8881 for more information. UNITED HEALTH CARE - HEALTH FAIR Saturday, April 14, 2012 | 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free and open to the public Join us for this important welcome event. Learn about your new BAYOU HEALTH insurance plan and United Healthcare Community Plan benefits. Bring your family. Free refreshments. Free health screenings provided by Daughters of Charity. Get your questions answered. Lots of activities for kids, and they can meet Dr. Health E. Hound. CAF� RECONCILE HOSTS "HOW TO MAKE IT PANEL" April 18, 2012 | 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1724 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Open to Youth Only Join us as our Rising Stars discuss how they "made it" in the challenging culinary profession. Rising Stars are up-and-coming chefs and culinary professionals who represent the vanguard of contemporary American dining scene. They have strong, compelling culinary philosophies, are able to see beyond the four walls of their restaurant, and are committed to fostering a culinary community by sharing their knowledge with fellow professionals. Caf� Reconcile is a nonprofit restaurant and training ground for students who want to gain skills in the food service industry. For more information, call (504) 568-1157. To learn more about Rising Stars, visit http://www.starchefs.com/cook/events/rising-stars/2012/new-orleans. WORKPLACE WELLNESS LUNCHEON Thursday, April 19, 2012 | noon-1:30 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free and Open to the Public Bristol M. Williams, DDS, will address the topic: "Your Dental Health" Dr. Williams practices periodontics in Georgia. Join us as we explore and learn about the benefits and pitfalls connected to proper or improper care of your teeth and gums. RSVP to (504) 569-9070. Seminar: GETTING YOUR BOARD AND VOLUNTEERS EXCITED ABOUT FUNDRAISING Thursday, April 19, 2012 | 4:00-6:30 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. $35 The Funding Seed presents workshops and seminars of interest to nonprofit organizations, and to individuals interested in learning the ins and outs of grant writing. This very special event will give in-depth information on and the how-tos of fundraising. Who Should Attend: The non-profit organization with a vital mission and a team of dedicated individuals who are passionate about changing the world. What You Need: Funding to help enable you to reach your goals. How the Funding Seed Can Help: The Funding Seed provides practical coaching and tools, helping you to raise the funds that will allow your non-profit to reach its full potential. Call (504) 569-9070 for more information. VOLUNTEER AND MEMBER APPRECIATION RECEPTION Thursday, April 19, 2012 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free Ash� Cultural Arts Center and DOVIA say "Thank You" to its volunteers and members at this annual appreciation reception. Attendees will move to the sounds and excitement of Bamboula 2000 and the Bamboula dancers, and enjoy refreshments and beverages selected especially for this occasion. If you are a member of Ash� or DOVIA or a volunteer with either, come out and have fun mingling with old and new faces. Please RSVP to (504) 569-9070. Community Cinema - "HELL AND BACK AGAIN" Friday, April 20, 2012 | 6:00 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free and Open to the Public What does it mean to lead men in war? What does it mean to come home - injured physically and psychologically - and build a life anew? This story follows the U.S. Marines Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, as they launch a major assault on a Taliban stronghold in Southern Afghanistan. Within hours of being dropped deep behind enemy lines, Sergeant Nathan Harris's unit is attacked from all sides. The parallel story begins with Sergeant Harris's return home to his wife in the U.S., after he is severely injured. He's in terrible physical pain, and becomes addicted to his pain medication. But his psychological pain may be worse, as he attempts to reconcile the immense gulf between his experiences at war, and the terrifying normalcy of life at home. Call Drena S. Clay at (504) 569-9070. A COMMUNITY SING WITH MICHAELA HARRISON Tuesday, April 24, 2012 | 6:00 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Free and Open to the Public Like to sing? Let loose at Ash�'s monthly community sing. Led by songbird and actress Michaela Harrison, you just never know what the theme might be--movie and television series theme songs, favorite western songs, childhood songs, etc. No singing experience necessary. Bring your friends and family and come prepared to sing. For more information, call (504) 569-9070. Theater: ANGOLA 3 Three weekends: April 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 and May 4, 5, 6, 2012 Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. | Sundays at 3 p.m. Ash� Cultural Arts Center | 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. General admission: $15. $10 seniors and students. Experience the stage play Angola 3. Written and produced by New Orleans own Parnell Herbert. Directed by New Orleans own Chakula cha Jua. Performed by New Orleans actors. Learn the true ongoing story of three men who were allegedly framed for murders they did not commit. It is claimed that this imprisonment was done to silence their movement aimed at changing the penitentiary mentality of inmate sexual bondage, rape, brutality and murder in the United States' bloodiest and most brutal penitentiary. Two men, who still proclaim their innocence, remain incarcerated after forty years--longer than anyone in recorded history. Experience this amazing story and hear about their strength and perseverance in the face of extreme adversity. You be the judge. You just might be inspired to join the movement. Call (504) 569-9070 or (504) 813-9008 for more information.

Urgent Psychic and Ritual Spell Work 24 Hours a Day

Help us lay 1 Million Bones for Sudan, Somalia and The Congo in Congo Square New Orleans

Join Us SATURDAY APRIL 7th, 2012 where we will gather from around New Orleans to lay down 50,000 handmade bones; honoring victims and survivors of ongoing conflicts in The Congo, Sudan and Somalia 10AM to 5PM (Ritual Opening With Congo Square Preservation Society promptly at 10AM)

*There will be a documentary team from African filming this event as well.*

We need 200 volunteers who under stand the sacred and prayerful undertaking to join us in laying down this 50,000 locally hand crafted bones while attired fully in white showing solidarity in out mission of Peace and Justice.


http://www.onemillionbones.org/new-orleans/