::THE SLICE REPORT WITH MONA AUSTIN

Last week, Chicago dignitaries, gospel industry insiders and notable community figures gathered at the Dusable Museum of African American History to honor television programmer Central City Productions, Inc. (CCP)’s 40th Anniversary. The event was hosted by ABC 7 Chicago’s news anchor Cheryl Burton, sports anchor and reporter Jim Rose, and WGN 9′s Bob Jordan. Guests enjoyed a video montage showcasing the past four decades’ greatest moments, musical tributes and commentary from special contributors. Performances included show-opener Grammy Award-winning songwriter/producer Darius Brooks and gospel music legend Vickie Winans. While she shared some of her musical talents, she also recognized Don Jackson’s undeniable support and influence. “Because of him, my career is set and I appreciate that. He hired me to host, present and perform [on the Stellar Awards]. Don has the magic formula to keep things going,” Winans said. Chicago-native Don Jackson founded CCP in 1970 as C...

Jackson thanks supporters before recording 25th Annual Stellar Awards on January 16; says it will be 'our best show ever' amid criticism from the gospel industry stemming from questions about the nomination process By Mona Austin On January 16, 2010, Central City Productions (CCP) will celebrate 25 years of producing The Stellar Awards, the first and only show that recognizes the contributions of African American gospel artists. But, the path to the company's silver anniversary year has been lined with controversy. Following the announcement of the 2010 nominees in October various bloggers and members of the gospel industry on social networking sites criticized the company and the Stellar Awards Gospel Music Academy (SAGMA)-- the voting body for the Stellars-- for alleged inconsistencies in the nominations process. Ultimately, the integrity and reputation of the award show was in question. Nearly a month later, on November 24 Don Jackson, Founder and Executive Produce...