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NEWMAYOR YORK TREND DAVID DINKINS, REP. CHARLES RANGEL, Serving New York City, Nassau & Suffolk Counties
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THE ALTERNATIVE VOLUMEPERSPECTIVE 26 ISSUE 40
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December 17, 2015 - December 23, 2015
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September 30th, 2021 - October 6th, 2021
C E L E B R AT I N G HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 30
B L A C K A N D H A I T I A N L E A D E R S O P P O S E T R E AT M E N T The Black Stars News 2015H Annual A I T I A N S AT B O R D E R Awards Dinner will honor Mayor
NAACP President and CEO, Derrick chasing and whipping Haitian migrants. David Dinkins, Rep.ofCharles Johnson, and Executive Director Black In addition, the Biden administration has Rep. Yvette Clarke, AllianceRangel, for Just Immigration, Nana started deporting the migrants to Haiti, Gyamfi,R. released the following statement Donahue Peebles, Barbara a country facing serious political and after meeting with the White House on the humanitarian crises. Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina U.S. Border Patrols Incendiary Treatment Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen This government action occurring under the of Haitian Migrants at the Border: Byrd, Aliaasylum Jones, and the Centralpurview of public health ordinance Title 42, "Right now, Haitian seekers which was first adopted during the COVID-19 Park Five survivors of grossare injustice subjected to devastating circumstances pandemic by former President Trump, allows being forced onto airplanes handcuffs by – for the rapid expulsions of migrants—without on December 18infrom 6:00pm border patrol agents. is a Harlem, humanitarian 10:00pm atThis MIST 46 West granting them an opportunity to apply for crisis of the gravest proportion and makes a asylum. President Biden has continued to 116th Street. mockery of the American promise. enforce the order, despite pushback from “Eachtohonoree chosen for very Our demands the White House are civil rights groups and Haitian American clear: recognition has demonstrated Stopping expulsionsleadership and deportations exceptional and vision in immediately David Dinkins her or his respective profession or End the uneven application of Title 42 endeavor in some Provide both aid and and support to significant asylum was a member of the New York seekersmeasure has contributed towards
creating a more just society in this country,” says Black Star News "PRESIDENT BIDEN AND HIS founder and publisher Milton ADMINISTRATION MUST CHOOSEmuch THE work Allimadi. “Obviously RIGHT COURSE OF ACTION HERE, needs to be done here and AND DO SO IMMEDIATELY TO AVERT around FURTHER HARM.the THEworld.” WORLD IS WATCHING." The gala starts at 6:00pm with a
Derrick Johnson, President and CEO, by the cocktail hour to be followed NAACP dinner and awards ceremonies. There "We arewill gladbe to be part ofentertainment a coalition of musical by Black civil rights leadership demanding that opera singer Cassandra Douglas the Biden administration drastically change andcourse fromofharmonica phenomenon its current mass deportations and William for Galison. David have compassion Haitian and otherDinkins Black is asylum honored seekers. The administration forBiden Lifetime Achievement must immediately all expulsions and first — he wasend New York City’s deportations of Haitian asylum seekers. In also African American mayor and this meeting, we made it clear that the racist Nelson Mandela Title 42welcomed program must be revoked and thatto the city after release in 1990. Black migrants be his granted humanitarian parole.
OF
Haitian migrants who arrive in our country seeking safety and security are fleeing a country ravaged by a devastating earthquake and violence following the assassination of the country’s leader this summer. They deserve to be treated with humanity and compassion. LDF is calling on the Biden administration to halt deportations of Haitians, and to provide the support and resources needed to create humane conditions in Haitian migrant camps in Texas. In addition, any agent of the U.S. government engaged in the brutality we saw yesterday perpetrated by officials on horseback menacing and corralling
City Council, representing the 40th council district in Brooklyn, succeeding her mother, Una S. T. Clarke. In the current 114th Congress Clarke serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee, responsible for consumer protection, food safety, energy development, public health, communications, the environment, and interstate and international commerce.
YEARS!
York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system.
Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their immigrants living inFront the United States company Row Production, because of their race and national origin. brought “Cat on a Hot TinTitle Roof” Now, the Biden administration is using and “A Streetcar Named Desire” 42 as a mechanism to facilitate the rapid withofamigrants multi-ethnic castborder to deportation at the U.S. to Haiti.Broadway. Let’s be clear, Title 42 deportations In 2016 they bring are illegal and a violation human Winner rights. “Eclipsed” withofOscar In 1985,Lupita LDF founder and Supreme Court Nyong ’O to Broadway. Justice Thurgood Marshall condemned this country’s unwillingness to welcome Honorees, the so-called Central Haitian Park migrants groundbreaking 5, in arehiscollectively and
Charles Rangel
majority. She now leads The Transformative Justice Coalition. Arnwine was for 26 years executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law. Inez Barron, honoree, formerly a State Assembly member, is now a New York City council member and a champion of education for our youth. Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is a legendary radio talk show host and executive producer, radio DJ, poet, songwriter, music recording artist and producer, rapper, writer and community activist. He began his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s been a talk show host at WBLS and WLIB radio in New York City. He also has a Friday night radio talk show on WBAI.
individually heroes. They are survivors of one of the ugliest miscarriage of justice in New York’s history; having been railroaded and unjustly convicted for a crime they did not commit and for which they served long prison sentences ranging from seven years to 13 years before being exonerated when the actual rapist confessed. They are: Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, and Kharey Wise. The Black Star News, which focuses on investigative journalism, has been featured as a result of some if its news scoops, on CNN, The New York Daily News, The New York Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s Content magazine.
R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is a leading developer and founder of The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest African American-owned real estate firm with $3.5 billion worth Past Black Star News honorees of properties under development have included: Gil Noble (Like It or management — he was one Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored of the pioneering developerswho O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, "As we know, asylum seekers for Lifetime Achievement, has Photo Credit: NAACP helped turn around and revitalize are seeking protection, and it is Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), served in Congress 1971. He is the once-blighted Anacostia unconscionable that they since are being Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder a recipient of The Bronze medal for neighborhood in Washington, D.C. forcibly returned to the country (Entertainer), dissent Larrieux in Jean v. Nelson. He calledDr. William community organizations. In response to Black migrants must be immediately of World of Money, is a champion helping savethey soldiers behind enemythe migrant A champion of African-American from which are fleeing." for equal protection to applyEvers to Haitian crisis, NAACP Legal Defense suspended, and their conduct investigated. Pollard (Medgar College), of financial literacy for youth-during the KoreanDirector War. of and Educational line Nana Gyamfi, Executive economic empowerment Peebles’ This is includes andEdwards highlighted theJets), UnitedNayaba Fund, Inc. (LDF) President investigating the orders and sheimmigrants Herm (NY knowledge about handlingStates’ frequent use of policy to discriminate Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI) and Director-Counsel Sherrilyn Ifill issued policiesteaches that resulted in such conduct. contemplating a possible run for NYC Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna the following statement: “The ongoing money, budgeting and planning. against Black immigrants. This repetition When the Trump administration removed From the NAACP Legal Defense Fund: mayor in 2017. member of the US House of Fountain (Columbia University), treatment of Haitian migrants by agents of Temporary Protected Statushonoree, for Haitian is one ofof an enduring historical wrong must end. Haitian migrants near the southern border of Dr. Rudy Crew, Representatives from New Roberts We urgeLillian President Biden(DC37), to cease Desiree all Title Dancy the United States government—as seen mostcivil immigrants, LDF challenged the nowHonoree Barbara Arnwine, Texas have faced heightened and shocking th 42 expulsions, take the necessary steps to (Local dramatically this week in photos of brutality the nation’s leading educators. He’s York whose 9 district covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd rights lawyer, is a champion of rescinded decision in court, arguing that abuse from U.S. Border Patrol agents while ensure safe passage for all asylum seekers, and the mass deportations much of central Brooklyn. the Department of Homeland Security attempting to seek asylum in the UnitedBefore at the border 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic and bring this horrific violation of civil rights Haitians—must be addressed discriminate against Haitian States. entering Photos show agents onin horses Congress 2007, she of desperate Action Network), and many others. City University of New to an end.” — the emerging intendedoftoThe directly minority and quicklygroups by this administration.
INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS
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N AT ION AL
M A R K E T I N G A N D D I S T R I B U T I O N C O M PA N Y F O U N D E D BY BLACK INFORMATION NE T WORK
BIN: BLACK INFORMATION NETWORK, the 24/7 comprehensive national audio news network dedicated to providing an objective, accurate and trusted source of continual news coverage with a Black voice and perspective, and Real Times Media (RTM), a Detroit-based multimedia holding company focused on media, marketing, and content expressly for urban audiences, announced today
foster communication, accountability and a deeper understanding. Since its launch, BIN has quickly expanded to 32 affiliate markets and can currently be heard in Atlanta, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, and many more. BIN is also distributed nationally through the iHeartRadio app, available across more than 250
resources, assets and financial support of iHeartMedia and the support of its Founding Partners: Bank of America, CVS Health, GEICO, Lowe’s, McDonald’s USA, Sony, 23andMe and Verizon. BIN is focused on service to the Black community and providing an information window for those outside the community to help foster communication, accountability and deeper understanding. BIN: Black Information Network is distributed nationally through the iHeartRadio app and accessible via mobile, smart speakers, smart TVs and other connected platforms, and on dedicated all-news local broadcast AM/ FM radio stations. BIN also provides the news service for iHeartMedia’s 106 Hip Hop, R&B and Gospel stations across the country. Please visit www.BINNews. com for more information.
a strategic partnership to share and distribute news that is most important to the Black community. This new partnership expands upon the recent announcement that beginning in January 2022, BIN will expand their local news coverage in all 32 affiliate markets. Under the deal, iHeartMedia will source and distribute news stories from RTM publications across BIN radio stations and sites, and RTM will source and distribute BIN news, entertainment and sports stories and place BIN’s audio widget, a source of 24/7 audio coverage, on their digital properties. iHeartMedia will distribute RTM news on BINnews.com, BINnews.com/ Atlanta and BINnews.com/Detroit. The deal also includes opportunities for iHeartMedia to convert RTM stories into audio reporting. BIN: The Black Information Network launched in June 2020 as the firstof-its-kind 24/7 national and local all-news audio network. BIN is focused on service to the Black community and providing an information window for those outside the community to help
platforms and 2,000 devices. Real Times Media is a dynamic media company consisting of eight news, custom content and activation properties focused on amplifying Black voices. As the parent company to five of the country’s most respected Blackowned news organizations: The Atlanta Daily World, Atlanta Tribune: The Magazine, The Chicago Defender, The Michigan Chronicle, and The New Pittsburgh Courier, RTM remains committed to delivering quality news, events, and entertainment for African American audiences. “From the start, our goal at BIN has been to celebrate and invest in the Black community and shine a light on our most important stories,” said Tony Coles, President of BIN: Black Information Network. “This exciting new partnership allows us to extend our commitment to expanding local journalism, benefitting Black communities all across the country.” “Our RTM brands have decades-long reputations within the community as
trusted, valued resources for local Black news and perspective,” said Hiram E. Jackson, Chief Executive Officer of Real Times Media. “However, we also know that we cannot rest on our legacies to remain successful in an industry that changes every day. Being nimble, creative, and diverse about how we distribute our content is what has allowed us to overcome changes in the industry and remain competitive. Partnering with a progressive, undeniable force like BIN gives us the momentum and reach we need to continue to aggressively chase the future.” BIN: Black Information Network is the first and only 24/7 national and local all-news audio service dedicated to providing an objective, accurate and trusted source of continual news coverage with a Black voice and perspective. BIN is enabled by the
About Real Times Media Real Times Media (RTM) was established in 2006, but its legacy stretches back over 100 years. As the parent company to five of the country’s most respected Black-owned news organizations, the Atlanta Daily World, Atlanta Tribune: The Magazine, the Chicago Defender, the Michigan Chronicle, and the New Pittsburgh Courier, RTM remains committed to delivering quality news, events, and entertainment for African American audiences. In addition to its news organization, RTM is the parent company of Who’s Who In Black, a business lifestyle brand focused on live and virtual programming and content, RTM360°, a cultural marketing consultancy, and RTM Digital Studios, an unparalleled archive of historical photographs, videos, and film clips of the African American experience available through licensing for advertising, marketing, publishing, and film initiatives. Visit www.realtimesmedia.com for more information. Source: Black Information Network
N U L A N D E X P E R I A N L A U N C H F I N A N C I A L I N C L U S I O N E D U C AT I O N The National Urban League and Experian North America has announced the launch of a new partnership to further the mission of financial inclusion and empowerment for all. National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial and Experian North America Chief Executive Officer Craig Boundy shared the news during the opening day of National Urban League’s first all-virtual Conference. “The racial credit gap is a major barrier to Black entrepreneurship, homeownership and wealth-building,” said National Urban League’s Morial. “By utilizing a more inclusive creditscoring model and offering other financial services, this innovative
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partnership will help put Black business owners, homeowners and job-seekers on a more equal footing, building stronger communities and a stronger economy.” Through this partnership, Experian is providing National Urban League Young Professionals – a community-based volunteer auxiliary comprised of young professionals ages 21-40 – and those enrolled in one of 12 Urban League Entrepreneurship Centers with free access to their Experian consumer credit report and FICO® Score, along with the ability to potentially increase their credit scores instantly with Experian Boost™. Experian will also be offering small business tools,
services, and educational content. Based on a more inclusive credit-scoring model, Experian Boost can boost credit scores to reflect a more accurate payment history by factoring in utility bills, cellphone bills and video streaming services. “Access to credit enables consumers the chance to reach their goals. We know that some have faced more obstacles than others through no fault of their own. Whether it’s buying a home, a car, or access to credit itself at a more affordable rate, everyone deserves the chance to achieve financial health and we’re excited this new partnership will facilitate these opportunities,” said Boundy.
September 30, 2021 - October 6, 2021
Investing in communities is a key pillar of Experian’s Corporate Social Responsibility program. The partnership is part of Experian’s United for Financial Health initiative, which aims to empower and protect vulnerable consumers to improve their financial health through education and action.
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NEWS R e c o m m e n d at i o n s The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. (LDF) has released its recommendations for reopening schools while prioritizing both public health as well as racial equity. The recommendations— including policies such as a universal mask mandate, a requirement that all adults working at schools are vaccinated, and continuous data-driven engagement between schools and their communities—are intended to ensure that all students receive the academic and social benefits of in-person school attendance without avoidable risks to public health. Finally, the recommendations highlight some of the many ways that the pandemic’s harms have disproportionately fallen on Black communities, before urging districts not to put Black parents in the position of having to choose between the health and the education of their children. “The number one priority for all school districts should be the safety of their school community,” explained Kesha Moore, Senior Researcher and Development Specialist with LDF’s Thurgood Marshall Institute. “School districts should enforce universal mask mandates, as well as mandatory vaccination for staff, and take care to comply with the most up-to-date public health recommendations. If schools cannot provide safe in-person learning
For
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spaces, especially given the Delta variant’s increased threat to children, they must provide high-quality distance learning and access to school-based services.” “Vulnerable students are being left behind,” added LDF Policy Counsel Hamida Suad Labi. “The number one priority for all school districts should be the safety of their school community.” Kesha Moore Senior Researcher and Development Specialist, LDF’s Thurgood Marshall Institute “From discontinuing or inaccessible meal services to failing to provide access to high-speed internet and electronic devices for distance learning – these are choices states and school districts make, and they place a disproportionate burden on students of color and students who are economically disadvantaged. A racial equity lens on safe school reopening and operation demands that schools prioritize closing the digital divide, replacing punitive practices – such as school-based law enforcement – with trauma-informed care and other mental health services, and ensuring that state and federal education funding is distributed equitably. As families across the country continue to grapple with massive challenges, it is crucial that
Photo Source: NAACP
schools continue to provide students, parents and educators the support they need.” LDF recommends that states and school districts adopt the following principles to ensure their reopening is both racially equitable and safe: Protect public health, including by implementing vaccination requirements for staff and a universal mask mandate. Ensure equitable access to school resources during COVID-19 school closures. Establish equitable, pedagogicallysound, and culturally inclusive instruction and assessment. Social and emotional learning must be prioritized. An equitable education requires
equitable school funding. Since the beginning of the pandemic, LDF has been committed to advocating for students and their families. During the 2019-2020 school year, LDF repeatedly advised governors and local governments to continue providing school-based meals and accessible remote learning. LDF also pushed the Department of Education to engage in data collection throughout the pandemic to ensure there is accurate information on concerns around school discipline practices, teacher access, and student connectivity, and joined over 50 civil rights organizations urging Congress to provide broadband internet to lowincome Americans.
IMPACT OF COVID ON THOSE LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER’S The COVID pandemic presents unique risks to people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia from higher rates of psychiatric symptoms to neuropsychiatric disturbances, social isolation and grief. This symposium will discuss the impact of COVID-19 on prevalence, risk factors, and types of psychiatric signs and symptoms. It will also review potential treatments to improve these symptoms and offer providers and caregivers helpful
Photo Credit: Black Light Media via Pexels
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resources, cognitive exercises and coping skills to improve the physical and mental health of these individuals. All healthcare professionals and members of the community are invited. TOPICS AND SPEAKERS Post-acute Cognitive Symptoms and Potential Mechanisms in SARSCoV-2 Infection and Relationships to Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
Sara Weisenbach, PhD, ABPP Associate Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health Stony Brook Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease, Stony Brook Neurosciences Institute This presentation will summarize what is known about the most common cognitive problems in post-acute SARSCoV-2, discuss potential causes for cognitive changes in older adults and describe new longitudinal studies that will monitor cognitive symptoms and neurobiology in post-acute SARS-CoV-2. Psychiatric Symptoms Associated with COVID-19 in Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Nikhil Palekar, MD Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Director, Geriatric Psychiatry Medical Director, Stony Brook Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease, Stony Brook Neurosciences Institute This presentation will discuss the prevalence, risk factors, types of psychiatric manifestations and its impact on individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias along with potential treatments to ameliorate these symptoms. Grieving During The Pandemic And The Role of Palliative Care In Helping Care for Alzheimer’s Patients and Their Families Affected By COVID -19 Grace La Torre, DO, MS
September 30, 2021 - October 6, 2021
Director, Palliative Care Service, Stony Brook University Hospital Program Director, Hospice & Palliative Medicine Fellowship Director, Hospice & Palliative Medicine Education and Clerkships Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Stony Brook Medicine This presentation will discuss the natural process of grieving, the impact of the pandemic on this process and the role of palliative care in helping support these patients and their families. Neurocognitive Health Nicole Absar, MD Diplomate, Behavioral Neurology & Neuropsychiatry Board Certified by American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology Clinical Assistant Professor, Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University Stony Brook Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease, Stony Brook Neurosciences Institute The link to this course will be sent to the email used to register. This is a free educational opportunity. This Alzheimer’s Symposium is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Daphne.Perry@stonybrookmedicine.edu
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HE ALTH
NATIONAL SICKLE CELL AWARENESS MONTH September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. The HHS Office of Minority Health (OMH) is proud to join federal and non-federal partners in raising awareness about this debilitating disease affecting approximately 100,000 people in the U.S.
every 365 Black or African American births. •Sickle cell disease occurs among 1 out of every 16,300 Hispanic American births. •About 1 in 13 Black or African American babies is born with sickle cell trait. To help drive efforts, OMH encourages public and private organizations from across the country to join the NHLBI Blood Health Network, to work together to increase awareness and disseminate information about blood diseases, disorders, and safety. This month, check out NHLBI’s Today’s Faced of Sickle Cell Disease featuring real stories of people living with sickle cell disease and visit the OMH Sickle Cell Disease Initiative website for to access materials, videos, and information regarding the latest advances, and health resources.
Led by the NIH National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), this year’s theme, Advancing Sickle Cell Disease Research, aims to bring greater visibility to blood safety, as well as to the diagnosis, treatment, and management, of blood diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): •Sickle cell disease occurs among 1 out of
WALGREENS MOBILE CLINICS The next stops for the Walgreens mobile clinic offering walk-up access to COVID-19 and flu immunizations are focused on events tied to some of the nation’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The traveling clinic is stopping at more than a dozen locations on and off school campuses, including stops at several football “Classics” — games widely known for popular halftime shows featuring battles between school marching bands — that attract students, alumni and community members. “Walgreens is excited to bring our mobile clinic to HBCU events, as colleges resume campus life and other school activities,” said Carlos Cubia, Senior Vice President and Chief Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer for Walgreens Boots Alliance. “The present surge of the delta variant emphasizes the need to be protected, and our mobile clinic makes getting vaccinated easy, which helps us safely resume activities like attending Classic football games.” Walgreens COVID-19 vaccine equity initiative is focused on addressing hesitancy and removing barriers that
AT
HBCU’S
hinder access to immunizations, especially in rural and medically underserved communities that have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Walgreens continues
nation, including premiere HBCUs. The mobile clinic kicked off the HBCU tour with visits to Morris College in Sumter, SC and the Miles College vs. Alabama State University and
to accelerate access in areas that are tracked by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s social vulnerability index1 (SVI) through administering life-saving vaccines from retail pharmacies located in SVI areas and off-site and mobile clinics. To date, Walgreens has hosted approximately 1,300 off-site COVID-19 vaccination clinics working collaboratively with local churches, civic clubs, defined national partners and other groups across the
Tuskegee University vs. Fort Valley State University football games in Montgomery, AL. This week the clinic is set to make stops at LeMoyne-Owen College in Memphis before making other planned stops throughout the month of September. Dates and cities are subject to change. All stops will either be at an HBCU or held in conjunction with an HBCU program or event. Information about tour stops and walk-up clinic times
will be promoted in local markets. Please follow us on Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/Walgreens/, Instagram @walgreens and Twitter @ walgreens. Walgreens (www.walgreens.com) is included in the United States segment of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA), a global leader in retail pharmacy. As America’s most loved pharmacy, health and beauty company, Walgreens purpose is to champion the health and wellbeing of every community in America. Operating more than 9,000 retail locations across America, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Walgreens is proud to be a neighborhood health destination serving approximately 8 million customers each day. Walgreens pharmacists play a critical role in the U.S. healthcare system by providing a wide range of pharmacy and healthcare services. To best meet the needs of customers and patients, Walgreens offers a true omnichannel experience, with platforms bringing together physical and digital, supported by the latest technology to deliver high-quality products and services in local communities nationwide.
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September 30, 2021 - October 6, 2021
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New Opportunities to Save on Health Care Coverage Learn about new financial help to keep you and your family healthy!
If you lost your health insurance during the pandemic or have been unable to pay for coverage in the past, you may now be eligible to save money on your health care. Over 362,000 New Yorkers ages 50-64 may qualify for premium tax credits. Because of changes in the law, you could now pay as little as $0 for your premiums, or you could save up to thousands of dollars a year. You can enroll or change your coverage through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace, an online platform that offers insurance plans to individuals, families, and small businesses.
To learn more call 1-888-OUR-AARP or visit aarp.org/acany.
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Scan the QR code or visit aarp.org/acany to learn more about the ACA special enrollment period.
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ENTER TAINMENT
ALL BLACK ORCHESTRA
The Gateways Music Festival Orchestra is making history as the first all-Black classical symphony orchestra to do a feature performance at Carnegie Hall. It is the first time ever in the prestigious venue’s 130-year history!
The concert at Carnegie Hall will be held on April 24, 2022, which will serve as the conclusion of the 6-day festival in different venues in Rochester and New York City. Throughout the orchestra, the musicians will perform in a full orchestral concert and participate in several chamber recitals, open rehearsals, professional development activities, lectures, panel discussions, and film screenings. In 1993, Gateways Music Orchestra was founded by concert pianist and educator Armenta Adams (Hummings) Dumisani to bring together Black professional classical musicians.
TO
PERFORM
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CARNEGIE HALL
It also became a safe haven away from the discrimination many have experienced from their jobs. Since then, it has expanded to an orchestra with around 125 musicians and instrumentalists who were also from several larger orchestras such as the New York and Los Angeles Philharmonics, the Cleveland Orchestra, and the National, Boston, Houston, Phoenix, and Detroit Symphonies. Their performance at the Carnegie Hall is a historic moment because even though the venue hosted several allBlack ensembles over the years, this is going to be the first feature performance of an all-Black classical symphony orchestra ever. Lee Koonce, who took over as Gateways’ President and Artistic Director after Dumisani’s retirement in 2009, expressed his excitement over the historic debut. “Gateways Music Festival’s journey to Carnegie Hall has been 28 years in the
Photo Source: gatewaymusicfestival.org
making. To be the first all-Black classical symphony orchestra to headline a performance there is momentous, especially at this time of racial reckoning in our country’s history. Hearing and seeing the Gateways orchestra on Carnegie’s revered main stage will show Black children that they can perform classical music at the highest level
while reminding people of all backgrounds that this music belongs to everyone. We are grateful to Carnegie Hall for its belief in our mission and its commitment to showcasing the artistry of Black classical musicians. It’s a sign of hope and heralds a brighter future,” Koonce told Harlem World Magazine.
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Stony Brook University/SUNY is an affirmative action, equal opportunity educator and employer. 20090337H
Serious memory loss isn’t part of normal aging.
Stony Brook Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease As the only center of its kind on Long Island, and one of only 10 such centers in New York State, we provide early diagnosis and help enhance the quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Our team includes geriatric psychiatrists, a geriatrician, a neuropsychologist and social workers. And we have partners throughout Long Island to effectively serve you and your loved ones where you live.
For Physicians and Healthcare Providers
Alzheimer’s Disease Virtual Symposium Person-Centered Care: Therapeutic Strategies in Dementia Care for Improving Quality of Life and Caregiver Support.
Friday, Nov. 6 • 8 to 10 am To learn more/register: ceadlongisland.org
• • • • •
Assessment and diagnosis of memory loss Comprehensive, individualized care plans Management of complex cases Technical help Educational resources for difficult diagnoses
• Second opinions
For Family Members • • • •
Recommendations on resources and support Language assistance Clinical trials information Advocacy with and on behalf of caregivers
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CHARLIE WILSON & THE ISLEY BROTHERS LIVE IN CONCERT Praise God/DJ Geno proudly presents “A Night of Legends.” This “Red Carpet” affair will be an evening filled with spectacular performances of era-defining hits coupled with new releases staring “Charlie Wilson” and “The Isley Brothers” Friday, September 24, at the Indiana Farmers Coliseum, 1202 East 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46205. CEO Geno Shelton (known as DJ Geno) said, “With a world deep in the throes of a global pandemic, widespread uncertainty, reimaging a new ‘Normal,’ vaccination controversies, racial inequities, heated abortion, and political issues, I felt spiritually led to do something. I knew this ‘something’ had to be big to offset the gloomy outlook we all face (specifically in my city Indiana). I believed a moment in music history could be my contribution. With the intercontinental success of Charlie Wilson and The Isley Brothers coming off the massive success of their Verzuz with Earth, Wind, & Fire, I figured together might be a hot ticket. Attendees (I believe) will enjoy a night of reminiscent images set in a real-time soundtrack of life from both mega-forces." Additional dates have been added (more TBA). Saturday, September 25 in Louisville, KY, at the KFC Yum! Center, 1 Arena Plaza, Louisville, KY, 40202. Sunday, September 26 in St. Louis, MO at The Chavitz Arena, 1 South Compton Avenue, St. Louis, MO, 63103. Tickets for all shows are available now through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster. com.
- Ch arli e W ilson -
as “Uncle Charlie.” He is also a New York Times and Washington Post best-seller for his memoir “I Am Charlie Wilson.” Wilson’s career spans over four decades, beginning as the lead singer for The Gap Band. He has since garnered 11 solo number 1 records, 13 Grammy Awards nominations, and both a BET and Soul Train Lifetime Achievement Awards. Wilson was also named Billboard’s 2020 and 2009 Top Adult R&B Male Artist. Connect with Charlie on his Official Website: www.charliewilsonmusic.com, Facebook: Charlie Wilson, Twitter: @iamcharliewilson, Instagram: @imcharliewilson, YouTube: Charlie Wilson, Tik Tok: @charliewilson
- The Is l ey Broth e rs - The Isley Brothers are a Multi-Grammy Award-Winning, Grammy Hall of Fame Inductee, Soul Train, and NAACP AwardWinning, recipient of numerous “Lifetime” honors, the singing (musical) group that started as a vocal trio consisting of brothers O’Kelly Isley Jr., Rudolph Isley, and Ronald Isley in the 1950s. Connect with The Isleys on their Official Website: www.theisleybrothersofficial.com, Facebook: Isley Brothers, Twitter: @isleybrothers, Instagram: @isleybrothers
- Pra is e Go d/ DJ G e no - Praise God/DJ is a full-service entertainment and marketing company with over (25) years of experience, based in Indianapolis, IN. Founded by Geno Shelton, PG/DJ continues to be the premier Event Promoter, Marketing, and Entertainment Companies in the Midwest.
Charlie Wilson is an R&B legend known
LEGENDARY SINGER RELEASES S TA R - S T U D D E D E P Nationwide — Triple-threat vocal wonder Freda Payne returns from a 6-year sabbatical with her most star-studded Jazz vocal project yet, Let There Be Love. The 5-song EP – in the tradition of 10-inch shellac records from the golden years of jazz – is bubbling over with knockout performances highlighted by 4 duets with special guests who are not only stellar singers, they ALL exude sparkling chemistry with Ms. Payne. Recorded inside fabled Capitol Records Studio ‘A’ in Hollywood and officially releasing via The Sound of L.A. Records on Friday April 16 (pre-order sales are on now), this instant classic from Freda and company will surely be one of the finest Jazz Vocal projects of 2021. With big band charts for 30-pieces by Grammy-winner Gordon Goodwin and production by Rodrigo Rios (Executive Produced by Michael Goetz for Alain Franke Music), no expense was spared to make
Ms. Payne’s return a spectacular one. The first single (released in November) is a dream come true duet with Johnny Mathis on the George & Ira Gershwin gem “They Can’t Take That Away From Me,” filled with sweetly flirtatious energy and the spirit of the singular Nelson Riddle. 2021 Grammy-winner for Best Jazz Vocal Album, Kurt Elling, swings in to join Freda on a rhapsodic scat symphony of Gershwin’s “Our Love is Here to Stay.” Freda has a field day with Michigan friend Dee Dee Bridgewater on the ingenious medley “Moanin’ n’ Doodlin’” which pairs up two lyricized jazz gems from the pens of piano greats Bobby Timmons (“Moanin’”) and Horace Silver (“Doodlin’”). Soul crooner Kenny Lattimore slides in next to Freda for a cool jazz meets mod-pop reading of the ol’ Nat King Cole hit, “Let There Be Love.” Finally, Ms. Payne trades scats solo with the band on the sassy “It’s Alright With Me,” delivering fans shades of Ella that served her well across the decades. Though internationally renowned for her chart-topping 1970 Soul-Pop classic “Band of Gold,” Ms. Payne began her career in 1962 singing Jazz. She has since lent voice to everything from standards, R&B and Quiet Storm to Disco and Pop.
Photo Source: BlackNews.com
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The last two decades have found Freda Payne firmly back home in Jazz. Her latest, Let There Be Love, will make lovers of the genre giddy – from vets to newbies. Learn more at FredaPayne.com
C E L E B R AT I N G
B L A C K M U S I C H E R I TA G E M O N T H
In honor of Gospel Music Heritage Month, which takes place annually in September, McDonald’s is serving inspiration with a side of friendly banter for music fans of all ages. Starting Sept. 19 through Oct. 10, the 15th annual McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration® Gospel Tour, a long-standing event that is fostering community through the deeply rooted tradition of gospel music, will take place virtually every Sunday at 8 p.m. ET on BET Network’s YouTube channel and BET.com.
Cobbs-Leonard and Israel Houghton, and rising gospel artists like Mali Music and Pastor Mike Jr., among many others. For the first time in tour history, fans can watch the show from the McDonald’s app while reppin’ their city. Ahead of each show, fans can also experience a virtual red carpet hosted by social media comedian @NotKarltonBanks who will perform lively skits, host spirited interviews with tour artists and give viewers a peek behind-thescenes.
Brought to fans by McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden movement, award-winning gospel artists hailing from the Gulf Coast, West Coast, Carolinas and DMV regions will put their talent and artistry on full display while showing which region produces the greatest gospel hit-makers and hits. Multiaward-winning musician and syndicated radio personality Lonnie Hunter will host the four-part “Gospel City Playlist” series, featuring legendary gospel artists like Tasha
“Faith and inspiration are a core part of gospel music, and an integral part of McDonald’s community-based gospel tour,” said Erica Campbell, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and 2021 McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour performer. “Communities need inspiration, and I am proud to join such an amazing line-up of artists to help reach gospel music lovers nationwide.”
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ENTER TAINMENT M O N I C A & J E E Z Y H E A D L I N E LOV E F E S T CO NC E R T Coming after the unforeseen COVID-19 pandemic, many entertainment groups are eager to get back to some sense of normalcy. The Thug Love Fest will be the first Hip Hop and R&B concert at Township Auditorium since the pandemic. The Thug Love Fest features R&B sensation Monica and coheadliner Hip Hop Star Jeezy, both are nationally recognized recording artists. The two artists combined have over 75 hit singles. This event will be a major
and exciting concert for the City of Columbia. Although the concert is full capacity, the promoter, the Township Auditorium and the City of Columbia still encourage COVID-19 safety precautions. This concert will enforce a clear bag or a no bag policy. Thug Love Fest, November 6, 2021 - Doors open at 7pm | Showtime 8pm. Tickets on sale now www.ticketmaster.com.
M U S I C A N D E N T E R T A I N M E N T I C O N N E L LY N A M E D T H E “I AM HIP HOP” AWARD RECIPIENT
BET has announced DOUBLE DIAMOND SELLING SUPERSTAR rapper and entrepreneur Nelly as the “BET Hip Hop Awards” recipient of the 2021 “I Am Hip Hop” Award. From charttopping hits that include “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma” (feat. Kelly Rowland), “Country Grammar,” “Ride Wit Me,” and “Cruise” (with Florida Georgia Line), to his popular fashion line Apple Bottoms, to starring in the hit series Real Husbands of Hollywood, and his own reality show Nellyville, the charismatic, multi-platinum music icon will be celebrated for his massive contributions to music and the culture at large. The “BET Hip Hop Awards” premieres Tuesday, October 5, 2021, at 9:00 PM ET/PT.
Grammy award-winning rap superstar, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor, NELLY, has continually raised the bar for the entertainment industry since stepping on the scene in 2000 with his distinctive vocals and larger-than-life personality. Over the past 20 years, he has released hit singles including “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma” (feat. Kelly Rowland), “Country Grammar,” “Ride Wit Me,” “Just a Dream,” “Cruise” (with Florida Georgia Line), “The Fix,” “Millionaire” and more. RIAA ranks Nelly as the fourth best-selling rap artist in American music history, with 21 million albums sold in the United States. On December 11, 2009, Billboard ranked Nelly the number three Top Artist of the Decade.
“I am honored to receive this award and humbled to be in such great company of past artists who have received this award,” said Nelly, this year’s I Am Hip Hop Award recipient. “I have been blessed to work with some incredible people in my career, making 22 years go by in the blink of an eye. This award isn’t just about Nelly; it is about my fans, BET, and the people that continue to support me and allow me to do what I love to do.”
The music mogul has also left his mark in other aspects of the industry,
introducing his hugely successful women’s clothing line, Apple Bottoms and as part-owner of the Charlotte Bobcats with Michael Jordan. Nelly also added sports commentator to his list of accomplishments with Fox Sports, making him one of few actors with three television shows airing simultaneously at the time with Fox Sports, Nellyville and Real Husbands of Hollywood. In 2005, he made his big screen debut in the Adam Sandler and Chris Rock hit remake The Longest Yard and Reach Me with Sylvester Stallone in 2014. Currently, he supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and is the only music artist to own a college, EI University, which provides education surrounding the music industry while Nelly himself provides scholarships. In addition to touring shows and promoting his latest single “High Horse” from the
upcoming “Heartland” album, Nelly is also filming the new season of BET smash hit series Real Husbands of Hollywood, streaming exclusively on BET+ in 2022. Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy will oversee the annual show, with Jamal Noisette, VP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy serving as Co-Executive Producer for BET. Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment, to serve as Executive Producer of the 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS'' along with Jesse Collins Entertainment’s Jeannae Rouzan–Clay and Dionne Harmon. For more information about the “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” including the latest news and updates, visit bet.com/ hiphopawards.
Previously announced nominees include Cardi B, Lil Durk, and Megan Thee Stallion, leading the pack with nine nominations each, followed by Drake with an impressive eight nods. Tyler, The Creator and Metro Boomin tie for third-most nominations securing four nods each. Other notable nominees include 21 Savage, DJ Khaled, J. Cole, and Pooh Shiesty, who received three each. Bia, Chris Brown, Doja Cat, Jay Z, Lil Nas X, Migos, Nicki Minaj, Roddy Ricch, Saweetie, Young Thug, and Yung Bleu received two nominations. ABOUT NELLY Diamond Selling, Multi-platinum, 3x
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EDUCAT ION HOWARD UNIVERSITY RENAMES ARTS COLLEGE IN CHADWICK BOSEMAN’S NAME
It's official. Howard University has renamed its College of Fine Arts after late actor Chadwick Boseman, who died last year at age 43 following a four-year battle with colon cancer.
The historically Black university shared a time-lapse video showing the installation of the new letters on the school’s building, which is now the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. "Yesterday, the letters were installed over the now official Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts," the school said in a tweet Friday. "An icon in his own right who has left an immeasurable legacy for the next generation. Thank you Mr. Boseman." Howard University first announced in May that it would rename its performing and visual arts school after the 'Black Panther' star who also happens to be an alumnus of the school. Boseman graduated from Howard in 2000 with a bachelor of arts degree in directing. During his time at the school, Boseman led a student protest against the absorption of the College of Fine Arts into the larger College of Arts & Sciences, according to the university. In 2018, the year Boseman rocketed to international fame as King T'Challa in the Marvel cinematic universe, the university announced that its performing and visual arts school would return to its independent status.
"Chad fought to preserve the College of Fine Arts during his matriculation at Howard and remained dedicated to the fight throughout his career, and he would be overjoyed by this development," Boseman's family previously said in a statement. "His time at Howard University helped shape both the man and the artist that he became, committed to truth, integrity,
and a determination to transform the world through the power of storytelling." In addition to the renaming, the university announced efforts from Walt Disney Company's Executive Chairman Bob Iger to establish an endowment named after Boseman and raise money to build a new arts facility on the campus. The "Black Panther" film
was produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures. "Through his tremendous example he inspired millions to overcome adversity, dream big and reach beyond the status quo," Iger said in a statement back in May, "and this college named in his honor ... will provide opportunities for future generations of artists to follow in his footsteps and pursue their dreams."
Chadwick Boseman appears on the TODAY Show in New York on Nov. 19, 2019. Photo Credit: Nathan Congleton / NBC / NBCU Photo Bank file
G E T T Y I M A G E S PA R T N E R S W I T H U N C F T O C R E AT E S C H O L A R S H I P
Getty Images and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) have announced the creation of the UNCF-Getty Images Scholarship for students at historically
Photo Archive Grants for HBCUs, which is working to digitize the visual history of HBCUs.
digitization of up to 100,000 photos for two HBCU grant recipients. HBCU schools will retain all copyrights, and the photos will be returned to the HBCUs
Morgan State's commencement ceremony. Photo Source: Youtube / Morgan State University
Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The program will provide scholarships to students attending HBCUs across the U.S. and will be funded by revenue created by the inaugural Getty Images
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Launched in partnership with the Getty family and Stand Together, the photo archive program will commit $500,000 toward digitizing HBCU photographic archives. The grant will support the
after scanning. “We thank Getty Images for its partnership and investment in our students’ futures. The Getty Images
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Photo Archive Grants for HBCUs exemplifies Getty Images’ commitment to support HBCUs and to give a visual life to previously untold stories,” Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President and CEO, UNCF said in a release. “There is a wealth of unseen imagery within the archives of HBCUs that have rarely been seen, and these grants from Getty Images will be an essential part of the ongoing documentation and preservation of Black history.” All revenue from the HBCU photos will be distributed to HBCU schools to continue impacting the grants program. Fifty percent of the funds will go to grant recipients, and 20% will be reinvested to fund the Getty Images Photo Archive Grants. The remaining 30% will be distributed to the UNCF-Getty Images Scholarship to support the educational future of HBCU students. The scholarships will be available for students in the 2022 academic year. Getty Images CoFounder and Chairman Mark Getty is excited about the HBCU partnership. “At Getty Images, we are excited about this partnership with HBCUs to digitize significant parts of their photographic archives,” Getty said in a statement. “A photographic archive tells a story; it’s a visual history of who we are. As a society, we can only learn from history if it tells everyone’s story. This partnership is an important step in that direction.”
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END NO TE S ARETHA FRANKLIN’S SOCIAL JUS TICE PASSION HON ORED In the progressive movement towards social change, respect is a concept that demands to be reciprocated. Similarly, that is what Aretha Franklin– the Queen of Soul– preached through her song “Respect.” From the groundbreaking Civil Rights Movement to the empowering Black Lives Matter, Aretha Franklin has become an intergenerational figure of social impact and generosity through her incomparable voice, a voice she has left for the community. While the world knows Franklin was in a class of her own as a vocalist and songwriter, this paper highlights and celebrates her as an exemplary philanthropist.
the anthem of the movement. Even as Franklin’s popularity grew, she continued putting herself at the forefront of the movement by providing time and money to support the community alongside donating to multiple charities. “While often not given credit, people of color have been leaders in philanthropy, not only providing generous monetary contributions but also innovating ways to empower worthwhile causes,” said Dwayne Ashley, CEO, BPC. “Aretha Franklin’s life and work exemplified how one person can use their philanthropy to influence change for generations to come.” Franklin’s legacy continues to live on as depicted in the remarkable 2021 biopic film, “RESPECT,” starring Jennifer Hudson as the iconic singer. The film honors Franklin in her vital role in the music industry and the rights of the Black community. Franklin’s vocal prowess, creativity, humanity, and impact were depicted by actor Jennifer Hudson.
Manhattan-based Bridge Philanthropic Consulting (BPC) presents this Iconic Impact Series paper on Franklin’s life, work, and philanthropy with the Special Introduction written by two authorities on Black music and culture, H. Beecher Hicks III, CEO, National Museum of African American Music and Robin Terry, Chairman and CEO, Motown Museum. In their introduction, they remind us how Aretha Franklin’s life can inspire what we can do to give back and to persevere through the tribulations that come to us. The is authored by BPC Senior Executives Dwayne Ashley, Tashion Macon, Ph.D., Sylvia White, and Jennifer Jiles. Franklin’s life was deeply rooted in proactive values as her father, Rev. C.L. Franklin, became a prime example of fighting for civil rights. C.L. Franklin was a well-known activist-pastor who led New Bethel Baptist Church. His work heavily influenced Aretha as she grew up at the pinnacle of the civil rights movement.
Growing up, she sang gospel and even participated in New Bethel Baptist Church’s gospel caravan and eventually
shifted into secular music. With this, she released the 18-Grammy awardwinning song “Respect,” which became
“Aretha Franklin’s life was a moment and she ensured it was a time to show up beyond the stage and give back. Her generosity and commitment to social change present an element of validation to all of us,” said Tashion Macon, Ph.D., BPC Senior Vice President of Marketing and Social Impact Strategy, Culturalist, and one of the authors of Aretha Franklin “Respect.” The Iconic Impact Initiative series is part of Circa64, BPC’s Social Justice Practice. It was created by BPC to explore the historical nature of multi-cultural philanthropy and modern-day leaders of color who have built a foundation of giving —from ordinary individuals to the most famous pop-culture icons like Franklin.
NICK CANNON N A M E D H O L I DAY L I G H T S E V E N T G R A N D M A R S H A L The 125th Street Business Improvement District (BID) along with Community Boards 9 & 10, announced that actor, host, comedian, producer, writer, director, DJ, philanthropist, and entrepreneur – Nick Cannon – will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 28th annual Harlem Holiday Lights event to be held on Tuesday, November 16th. “We are so excited to welcome Nick Cannon to the Harlem community, and we are delighted that he will be joining us this year to kick-off the Holiday Season as the Grand Marshal of the annual Holiday Lights celebration,” said Barbara Askins, President of the 125th St. BID. In the past the Harlem Holiday Lights has welcomed Harlem resident, American fashion designer and haberdasher, Dapper Dan; actress and playwright Laiona Michelle (“Little Girl Blue: The Nina Simone Musical,” “Mandela the Musical”); and Harlem’s own – author, radio and television personality, and pop-culture aficionado, Bevy Smith – all of whom served as
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Grand Marshal of the event. Askins met with Cannon over the summer, during his search for a space on the landmark 125th St. corridor to accommodate his artist development project. The two discussed the possibility of his participation in the holiday event, which has become a much anticipated tradition in the community, and he decided it was a perfect opportunity to be a part of something special. Cannon has already cemented his relationship with the historic Harlem community, which has become home to his daytime talk show, “Nick Cannon,” premiering on Monday, September 27th, and shot at the studios located at 106th & Park Avenue that once served as location for several BET productions. Nick Cannon has been a premiere name in entertainment for more than 20 years, having emerged as a savvy entrepreneur, impactful philanthropist, and dedicated activist over the years. In 2020 Variety recognized his work and influence with a cover story that further acknowledged his multi-faceted impact on the industry, while reinforcing his
desire to include Harlem in his future. That dream has now become a reality. “Harlem has always had a special place in my heart – it’s been a source of my inspiration, and more importantly a historic, iconic birthplace of culture, expression, creativity and prosperity for the Black community whose influence spans globally today,” says Cannon. “I’m
grateful to Barbara and the BID for the opportunity to represent at the Harlem Holiday Lights event – and to play a role in the broader mission of uplifting and inspiring Harlem’s community with this and the other amazing projects that I’m blessed to be working on here. We’re only scratching the surface of what’s to come.”
Nick Cannon (Photo courtesy of 125th Street Business Improvement District)
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DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED IS FIVE YEARS STRONG!
DRIVING HBCU TALENT INTO THE SPOTLIGHT.
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