June 23, 2004

What's up Everybody!!?

This is the first update in quite some time, but rest assured, it is not because we haven't been busy!  As always, I'll do my best to keep this short and focus on a few main items.

First and foremost, we've got a benefit this Friday June 25th @ Topcats @ 10pm that will feature Animal Crackers, J-Gram (I know you've heard "Big Spender" on the radio), and a whole list of other dope people.  Not to mention a graffiti art show and a low $5 cover charge with proceeds going straight to RENT!!  Come on out, bring your friends, it's sure to be a good ol' time.

Second, I just got back from the National Hip Hop Political Convention (www.hiphopconvention.org) in Newark, NJ.  It was an amazing gathering of thousands of young people from the hip hop generation coming together to form a political agenda for this community.  I had an opportunity to meet a lot of new folks, catch up with old friends, and participate in some great workshops on everything from gang culture and prevention to urban policy and development.  Cincinnati REPRESENTED with 34 delegates!

Third, we have lined up a location at 1599 Central Parkway, where it crosses Liberty!  The spot is about 10 minutes from every bus line in the city, has room for us to expand into, and is a truly unique place designed by a Cuban architect.  Check out the photos on our newly updated website!  We can't wait to move in!

I'd like to end by letting everybody know that we ARE doing this!  We had hoped to open this summer, but now it looks like the fall was more realistic.  We set a date last year and did our best to hit it, but the funding has simply not come together just yet.  We have our first interview in the grant application process with the Greater Cincinnati Foundation early in July, have continued to cultivate relationships with local individuals, and are waiting to hear back from several other foundations.

Young people in this city have been promised so much and given so little, and that makes it so tough for us to push our date back.  But I just wanted to let everybody know that this project IS happening!  It's gonna be dope, and we still need you to get down!  Hit us with a contribution on the web or send a check to the address below!

Hope everyone is well and thanks so much for your continued support! 

Peace,

Gavin Leonard

Director @ Elementz: The Hip Hop Youth Arts Center

513.721.5800 work

513.266.1508 cell

gavin.youthcenter@fuse.net