See what we’re chatting about over frothy cappuccinos:
La Toya Jackson is officially engaged to her manager, Jeffre Phillips. The bride-to-be confirmed the news on Good Morning America yesterday, saying, “Yes, I’m very much engaged…and it’s wonderful!” Jackson showed off a 17.5 carat diamond ring and also revealed she had big plans for the future, including adoption. The date for her big day has not been set. [E!News]
The Black Women Film Netwrok will present its 10th Annual Black Women in Film Festival in Atlanta. The three-day event kicks off June 13 at Spelman College with 7 films by or about African-American women. The two-day festival, which will include filmmaking workshops, a luncheon and networking affair, runs from June 13-15. [BlackWomenFilm]
Vanessa Simmons is the new host on Lifetime’s new fashion designing show, Threads. Aspiring fashion designers will compete for a $25,000 prize, a scholarship to the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles and a sewing and embroidery studio. [TheYBF]
Anthony Mackie hosts AfroPop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange the documentary series of independent films on contemporary life, art and pop culture across the African Diaspora. In this special the plight of legal immigrants deported to Haiti from the U.S. for legal infractions is documented. The special premieres in the U.S. June 8 at 9 p.m. EST on the World Channel. [WorldChannel]
Michael Jackson’s security team Bill Whitfield and Javon Beard are set to release a book revealing the details of the late star’s life. Telling stories about his family troubles, celebrity life and even a secret girlfriend, Remember the Time: Protecting Michael Jackson in His Final Days is available on bookstands now. [NewYorkPost]