See what we’re chatting about over hot coffee:
• President Barack Obama announced a new $100 million initiative to find a cure for HIV/AIDS. Although science has made progress in prolonging the life of those infected, it’s simply not enough. “The United States of America will remain the global leader in the fight against HIV and AIDS,” said Obama. “I believe we are going to to win this fight.” According to statistics, roughly 35 million people across the globe are living with HIV or AIDS. In the United States, an estimated 1 million people are infected with the disease, with about 20 percent simply unaware of their infection. [NBC]
• Actor Vin Diesel was among the many mourners who gathered at the crash site of Paul Walker. Over the loud speaker, Diesel thanked the crowd for their continued support. “If he could see for himself that all of you have showed up to show my brother love at this time, and the family gets to see of all of you show the love that you’ve shown Paul, it’s going to stay with me forever,” said Diesel. [People]
• Halle Berry has signed on to executive produce a new miniseries on the History Channel. Tentatively called Hannibal, the show will take a look at the most famous African general, Hannibal Barca, and his archival Scipio Africanus. “Hannibal was not only the greatest African general to ever live, he may have been the greatest, period,” said Berry. “His story is an intricate and captivating ride and I’m thrilled to get this project off the ground with our partners at History.” [EURweb]
• Kanye West commissioned Andy Warhol’s cousin, Monica to paint a picture of Kim Kardashian. “She’s an icon,” said Monica. “She’s famous for nothing. Andy would have loved her. Kim is beautiful. She’s so manufactured. She looks like a human barbie.” Monica shot to fame after painting Flo Rida. She’s currently painting the likeness of Lenny Kravitz. [Page Sixx]