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BlackTree TV Executive Lydia Idem, sits down to talk with artist/songwriter Ne-Yo at the BET Honors Award Show to Honor excellence in achievement and to honor the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama. BET Networks kicks off the inaugural festivities in Washington, D.C., with the second annual BET HONORS on Saturday, January 17 and concludes with BETs first-ever Inaugural Ball on Tuesday, January 20. Hosted by world renowned actress Gabrielle Union, THE BET HONORS will celebrate legendary songstress Mary J. Blige (Entertainment), groundbreaking filmmaker Tyler Perry (Media), celebrated dancer and choreographer Judith Jamison (Education), businessman, philanthropist and basketball legend Earvin Magic Johnson (Corporate Citizen), entrepreneur extraordinaire B. Smith (Entrepreneur), and the Honorable Congressman James E. Clyburn (Public Service). The second annual event will take place at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, January 17 and premiere on the network during Black History Month on Monday, February 9 at 9:00 p.m.* "We are thrilled to kick off this historic inauguration weekend with the return of THE BET HONORS, a truly inspirational event that pays tribute to extraordinary individuals in our community," said Debra L. Lee, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BET Networks. And it couldnt have worked out more perfectly that THE BET HONORS and the Inauguration are happening within days of each other, as President-elect Barack Obama epitomizes all that we had in mind when we first put this show together. Im certain that this years BET HONORS will be even more poignant and powerful than we could have ever imagined. THE BET HONORS recognizes excellence in achievement and celebrates inspiration, said Stephen Hill, President of Programming, BET Networks. Last years inaugural show had a number of leave-your-seat performances dedicated to our honorees. This year, were finding new ways to musically pay tribute so look forward to fresh unforgettable moments. The pride will show. During the historic weekend and following THE BET HONORS, BET Networks will host its first-ever Inaugural Ball and will air a one-hour special, YES WE WILL! BETS INAUGURAL CELEBRATION, on BET on Tuesday, January 20. Taking place at the Mandarin Oriental hotel, the Ball will be in support of our next generation of national and local leaders, with proceeds benefiting Americas Promise Alliance, the nations largest non-profit alliance dedicated to the well-being of children and youth founded by Colin and Alma Powell. Additionally, the Ball will support two institutions that are committed to the education and advancement of todays youth in Washington, D.C. Dunbar High School and the Duke Ellington School of the Arts.