From the raucous live taping of The Steve Harvey Morning Show to the stunning sea of white-wearing partygoers at the Freedom Friday party, Steve Harvey gave his Neighborhood Awards aka “The Hoodies” attendees a weekend to remember in Las Vegas.
The Sin City festivities marked the 11th year that the uber popular author, radio and television show host presented what many have come to regard as the “Oscars” of the African American community.
Businesses, from nail shops to barbecue joints and hair salons, received awards for their popularity and superior standing. The proceedings also honored those who work to better the world around them through service, including high school principals, schools, coaches and the highly anticipated Best Community Leader award which came, not only with a plaque, but $30,000 awarded by title sponsor, Ford.
JET was on hand for the weekend long party with a purpose not only as attendees, but as the official media sponsor. Our Editor-in-Chief Mitzi Miller and Digital Managing Editor Kyra Kyles were front and center for the awards, a perfect mix of comedy showcase, singing performances and positive reinforcement.
We also got a chance to check out Chaka Khan, Fantasia, and Jaheim who serenaded attendees with a medley of hot hits, with Chaka gamely entertaining an audience member’s shouted request that she “do something old.” The gorgeous diva quipped, “Well, I’ve been at this about 40 years old. I should be able to do that.” As if there wasn’t enough musical magic taking place, some of the presenters, including Yolanda Adams and Marvin Sapp, even snuck in a little singing as they walked onstage to announce the nominees.
Not to be outdone, entertainment all-stars from film and TV also walked the blue carpet to fete neighborhood heroes. Phylicia Rashad, Shemar Moore, Kym Whitley, Nephew Tommy and bombastic comic George Wallace were among those who helped hilarious host Steve Harvey keep everyone engaged and enjoying the nearly three-hour long festivities.
Check out the full list of winners here, and congratulations to all who were submitted for the high honor.
To get you even more into the action, JET has prepared a slideshow walking you through the other events of the weekend. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities and performers including: KEM, Ledisi, Kim Whitley, and Earthquake.
In all, it was an affair to remember, emphasizing the greatness of neighborhood businesses while offering engaging events from dusk ’till dawn. See for yourself in our gallery, and be sure and book your tickets for the Hoodies next year.
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