News: Diddy's Full Court 'Press' Begins In Philly

About 750 students at Benjamin Franklin High School erupted in cheers as the blinged-out entrepreneur was introduced by Principal Cristopher Johnson.

"This is a really important time for you all right now," Combs, 36, told the students. "This is the time that is going to dictate your future."

Wearing dark shades, the founder of Bad Boy Records called some students on stage to discuss their personal goals. He advised the individuals to work hard and stay in school.

"Take responsibility for your future. No excuses." Combs said.

The school district is hoping to incorporate Diddy's message into an anti-truancy campaign, said Cecilia Cummings, senior vice president for communications and community relations.

"We wanted someone whom they would sit down and listen to, someone who comes from the same type of background," Johnson told The Associated Press. "To have a superstar come in to talk is extremely powerful."

On Tuesday, his tour was scheduled to take him through the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area.

---

Here is Diddy's complete schedule for the "Press Play" promo tour:

Wednesday, September 20 - DC/Richmond/Norfolk

Thursday, September 21 - Raleigh/Greensborough

Friday, September 22 - Atlanta

Saturday, September 23 - Atlanta

Tuesday, September 26 - Minneapolis

Wednesday, September 27 - Los Angeles

Monday, October 2 - New York

Thursday, October 5 - Boston/Hartford/Providence

Tuesday, October 10 - Seattle

Wednesday, October 11 - San Fran/Sacramento

Thursday - October 12 - Las Vegas

Friday, October 13 - Chicago

www.eurweb.com