Mark Carver and Bandit Light Trumpet Awards

	24th Annual Trumpet Awards

A winter storm couldn't stop the prestigious 24th Annual Trumpet Awards which celebrates and honors African American achievers and those who support the African American experience. Bandit Lites provided the lighting package for the event which took place January 23 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center, and honors accomplishments in diverse fields including law, medicine, business, politics, the arts, civil rights, sports, entrepreneurship, entertainment, and other careers.

Hosted by actress Nia Long and actor Mike Epps, the honorees of this year's Trumpet Awards included EVP and COO of General Motors Alicia Boler-Davis, Former Secretary of Labor Alexis M. Herman, Chancellor of Wayne Community College Dr. Curtis L. Ivery, HRH Princess Masmah Bint Saud, R&B singer Ne-Yo, film and television producer Will Packer, and legendary actor George Wallace. The African American Women in the United States Congress were also honored with the "Political Leadership Award."

Lighting designer Mark Carver used Philips Vari-Lite VL 3000 Spots for gobos and textures, VL 3500 Washes for stage wash and color texture, and Pixel Lines and GRNLite Washes for painting scenery. Programming was provided by Susan Rose who operated a full size grandMA 1.

Distinguishing this year's lighting design from previous years' was the addition of the Chauvet Professional Rogue RH 1Hybrid, which Carver used for a hard beam light and for visual air effects. "I was looking for a more versatile beam effect light," explained Carver. The result was a stunning array of beams and looks that would translate well for all aspects of the award show: presenters and performances, live audience and television."

The evening marked another successful venture for Bandit Lites and Carver, who called his experience with Bandit "hassle free" and a "pleasure" before adding, "The Bandit team of Mike Golden, project manager Matt King, John Lucksinger and Chaz Martin always provided a well prepared system that met all expectations."