(Oakland, CA –July 15, 2007) The AAESHOF's 2007 Induction Ceremony held July 7th in Harlem, New York at the historic Alhambra Ballroom, paid tribute to nine history-making sports personalities, including the best hockey player in Canada during the 40s and 50s, Dr. Herbert Carnegie.

This internationally known star of hockey was the most sought after for photos and autographs. The Canadian Broadcasting Company sent two camera crews to record Dr. Carnegie as he was inducted. He became the first Canadian athlete to be inducted into the African American Ethnic Sports Hall of Fame.

Founder and President Arif Khatib notes, "We went to Harlem in 2006 to see if we could make it in New York.  After a very successful ceremony, we were asked to return in 2007."   

Although its custom is to move the ceremonies from city to city each year, the AAESHOF has been asked once again to return to New York.  Due to the outpouring of support and appreciation, the AAESHOF has decided to establish New York as one of its permanent sites.  The next New York ceremony will be on Saturday, July 12, 2008. "We want these wonderful athletes and pioneers to hear the applause emanating from historic Harlem," Khatib said.

In addition to Dr. Carnegie, other inductees included former professional tennis player, Pancho Gonzales. Gonzales, inducted posthumously, was presented into the Hall by none other than internationally known artist, Leroy Neiman. Also inducted were Tony Oliva, one of the greatest baseball players ever, who played for the Minnesota Twins during the 60s; Ken Hudson, the first African American NBA referee; former NBA star, Tree Rollins; boxer Mark Breland;  and former U.S. national champion and world record holder, Dr. Lillian Greene Chamberlain.

The AAESHOF honored two great Morgan State college football players from the late 40's who went on to become Lt. and Lt. Col. in the US Army, Eugene Evans and Eli Howard. Both of these soldiers were killed in action, in Korea and Vietnam respectively. They received the AAESHOF's Athlete/Military Award. The American Legion from Pelham, New York paid special tribute to these courageous soldiers at the ceremony.

The AAESHOF also honored Bobby Hunter with its Health and Wealth Award. Bobby is a playground legend in New York City, where he won Prep All-City honors and was an honorable mention All-American. Bobby is a former Globetrotter and the only team member truly hailing from Harlem.

Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Bill Daughtry, formerly with Madison Square Garden Network television sports; pregame host for the Knicks, Yankees and Mets; and current ESPN Radio (WEPN). Daughtry talked attendees through the star studded room as they met and heard from world class athletes who have made a difference in the lives of young people and their communities.  “We will see you again in New York next year! Mark your calendars now,” shares Khatib.