Let's be clear - your presence is welcome and necessary as the Marcus Graham Project (MGP) celebrates its 15 year anniversary. Â You are cordially invited to celebrate the 15 year anniversary of an idea inspired by a film and a need, that emerged into a non-profit social enterprise seeking to change the face of the media, marketing and advertising industry.
The marquee celebration will be taking place in Hollywood this summer. and will consist of our annual Ultra-Black-tie gala, Lavender Hill, where we will  recognize committed and consistent servant leaders and supporters who undoubtedly make a difference, not only to the organization but to the community, and in our industry.  Â
Additionally we will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Paramount Pictures film, Boomerang and discussion about the movie's impact in cinema, Black culture and the marketing industry.
We are crystal clear about the work that we have done, will continue to do and the need for your continued support along the journey.Â
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Co-hosted by the 23rd Cohort of MGP's iCR8 2022 Summer Bootcamp, will kick off the weekend reuniting prior cohorts of the bootcamp program and sharing their current experience working with their clients - McDonald's and Apple. Â The reception will include light bites and flights, amongst the music and artistry of MGP Alumni. Â
Exclusively hosted for MGP Alumni, Board Members and Sponsors
The Black-Tie annual fundraising gala will make it crystal clear on the work that Marcus Graham Project has done over the last 15 years, honor some of those who have been diligent in the mission of the organization, as well as recognize those who have made it clear about their future support for our expanded efforts and growth of our alumni into leadership roles. Â
Honorees of the Evening include:Â
Incorporators Award - Moet Hennessy USA
Change Agency Award - The Marketing Arm
Boomerang Award - Antonio NevesÂ
Alumni Brass Award - Saxx Booker and CJ Pasley
Sharp Award - Brittany Allen and Carl Desir
The event will be hosted by the incomparable Derek "Fonzworth Bentley" Watkins and will feature the artistry of Afrobeat & Hip Hop Violinist, Demola.  The master of the mood of the evening, George 2.0, a long-time builder of the vision of MGP will serve as the featured DJ.  Â
Free Parking is Available, however ride-sharing is encouraged.Â
The Boomerang Effect: You Can't Be What You Can't See
Film Screening &Â Talk Back
Sponsored by Paramount + Procter & Gamble
The culminating event of the weekend will feature a private 30th anniversary commemoration & screening of the iconic Paramount film, Boomerang, starring Eddie Murphy, whose character, Marcus Graham, served as inspiration for the name of the Marcus Graham Project. The 1992 film depicted characters played by iconic actors including Halle Berry, Robin Givens, the late Earth Kitt, and Grace Jones, all working in a marketing and advertising workplace setting. Â
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Following the screening, we will host a discussion about the indelible impact that Boomerang made in American film, Black culture & businesses, as well the marketing and advertising industry, while highlighting those who are working to continue to expand the depiction of people of color in all aspects of media. Â
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Moderator: Rachel Lindsay Abasolo, Media Personality & Attorney
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Panelists:
- Heather Woodard, Director, Cultural & Community Communications at McDonald's USA
- Daylon Goff, President at JET Magazine
- Dianne Sharp Parks, Founder & Chief Purpose Officer at The Bootstrap InitiativeÂ
- Detavio Samuels, CEO at REVOLT
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Please find below information on our host hotels and preferred ride share  partner.Â
HOTELS
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Loews Hotel:
1755 N Highland Ave, Hollywood, California, 90028 (2.7 Miles from Paramount studios)
20% off regular room rates
No Booking deadline.
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Thompson Hotel:
1541 Wilcox Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
$329/night (regularly $380)
(1.9 miles from Paramount Studios)
Last day to book: 6/14/2022
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TRANSPORTATION
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Alto Rideshare: $10 off Rides to/from Paramount studios on the 16th.Â
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To redeem the MGP Offer:
1. Open or download the Alto app.
2. Create an account and join as a member - your first 30 days of membership are free!
3. Select the profile section of the app and tap promotions.
4. Enter the promo code "MGP15" and don’t forget to pre-schedule your ride!
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To pre-schedule your rides:
1. In the Ride section of the app, enter your pick up and drop off locations and click Confirm.
2. Tap the clock on the bottom right part of the screen to see available pickup times.
3. Select your pick up time. Allow for a 15 minute pick up window from your selected time.
4. Complete your booking. You will be able to track your ride in your app when it’s on the way.
5. To confirm the pre-scheduled ride, go to the Profile section in the app and click on Pre-scheduled Rides. You should see yours there.
*Please note pre-scheduled rides must be booked at least one hour in advance and can only be booked by Alto members.
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