New York Trend NYC: July 21 – 27, 2022 by Teresa WIlliams

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C E L E B R AT I N G HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 30

J U D G E K ETA N J I B R O W N JA C KS O N The Black Stars News 2015 Annual J O Dinner I N will S honorU Mayor .S. SUPREME COURT Awards

David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Following the official retirement of grateful to know that the Court’s newest Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, former U.S. Supreme Court Justice addition is a jurist who possesses R. Breyer, Donahue Peebles, Stephen Judge Ketanji Barbara Brown exemplary credentials, intellect, and Arnwine, Sabrina character. She also brings a deep Jackson was swornInez in asBarron, the newest Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew,Court, Stephen understanding of the lived experience Associate Justice of Supreme makingByrd, her the firstJones, Black woman toCentralof marginalized Americans, including Alia and the ever serve the nation’s persons charged with criminal offenses ParkonFive survivorshighest of gross injustice judicialon body. December 18 from 6:00pm – — a perspective sorely lacking on the Court. 10:00pm MIST occasion, Harlem, 46 West In response to thisathistoric

of pride and hope for all those who remain committed to preserving and strengthening our multiracial democracy and building integrity in this essential branch of the federal government.” NAACP President Derrick Johnson made a statement on the historic appointment saying,

116th Street.

“Each honoree chosen for recognition has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in her or his respective profession or endeavor and in some significant measure has contributed towards creating a more just society in this country,” says Black Star News founder and publisher Milton Allimadi. “Obviously much work needs to be done here and around the world.” The gala starts at 6:00pm with a cocktail hour to be followed by the dinner and awards ceremonies. There will be musical entertainment by opera singer Cassandra Douglas and from harmonica phenomenon William Galison. David Dinkins is honored for Lifetime Achievement — he was New York City’s first African American mayor and also welcomed Nelson Mandela to the city after his release in 1990.

David Dinkins

YEARS!

York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system.

Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their Frontshe Row Production, nation'scompany highest court, will bring a voice —brought and a vote — ofon compassion, “Cat a Hot Tin Roof” respectand for human rights, and honor for “A Streetcar Named Desire” the rulewith of law. a multi-ethnic cast to Broadway. they bring After gutting our rightInto2016 vote, attacking “Eclipsed” withrights Oscar women's reproductive andWinner Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway.

Charles Rangel

was a member of the New York 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.

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.

Honorees, the so-called Central Park 5, are collectively and 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, Photo Credit: NAACP.org for Lifetime Achievement, has helped turn around and revitalize Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), served in Congress since 1971. He is the once-blighted Anacostia Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Sabrina founderundoing every inch of democracy we a recipient of (LDF) The Bronze medal for neighborhood in Washington, D.C. Legal Defense Fund President “Fittingly, Justice Jackson is joining "We're Honoree excited to finally call Lamb, her Justice Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William of ItWorld of Money, a champion helping save soldiers A champion African-American and Director-Counsel Janai S.behind Nelsonenemythe Court a mere twoofdays before Jackson. has a nice ring to it.isNot bled for, today is by far the greatest Pollard (Medgar Evers College), literacy for woman youth-- shenews for Black America coming out line during thestatement: Korean War. released the following the 114th anniversary of the birth Peebles’ of only wefinancial finally have a Black economic empowerment is doof Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba knowledge about handlingof this Supreme Court in a long, long “LDF congratulates Thurgood Marshall, who was LDF’s on the teaches bench, but a highly qualified contemplating a possible run for NYC Rep. YvetteJustice ClarkeKetanji is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna money, budgeting and planning. time." Brown Jackson and her family for foundermayor and the first Black person to professional who will represent Black in 2017. member of the US House of Fountain (Columbia University), this historic accomplishment. During serve as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice, women, and all Americans, well. Source:Lillian https://www.naacpldf.org/wpDr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of Representatives from New Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy Barbara an unprecedented andth uniquely and asHonoree the Court is poised toArnwine, take up civil Jackson will bring much more than a content/uploads/LDF-Statement-for-KBJthe nation’s leading educators. He’s York whose 9 district covers (New York is a champion of Swearing-CLEAN.pdf Times), Greg Floyd (Local challenging moment concerning the issues rights criticallawyer, to the protection of voting vote in Supreme Court decisions, she much of central Brooklyn. Before 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic will bring her voice. And in the wake of credibility of the Supreme Court and rights and equal opportunity. Today’s https://naacp.org/articles/naacp-presidententering Congress in 2007, she Action Network), and many others. derrick-johnson-todays-historic-swearingthe future of U.S. democracy, we are historicminority swearing-in should source such far-right poisoning of Theextremism City University ofour New groups — be thea emerging ceremony-ketanji-brown-jackson

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T H I S S UMMER, S TUDENTS A R E P L ANNING THEI R OWN R E T U R N TO THE O FFI CE BY : M O N I C A N AT I O N With offices and workplaces closed during the pandemic, many young people looking for work experience to boost their resumes were shut out. But that didn’t mean opportunity didn’t exist. Who else could better weather this storm than the Gen Z or Zoomer generation? Despite many young people defining their generation with the name of a video conference call app, the last two years saw the lowest levels of youth summer employment since the Great Recession, hitting young people from lower-income families especially. For many people ages 16 to 24, having a summer work experience is the first opportunity to get a taste of professional life, learn and build skills, create connections and start a career journey. JPMorgan Chase who has long been committed to ensuring that young people find meaningful first employment opportunities, just announced a new $20 million, five-year commitment to support Summer Youth Employment Programs in 24 U.S. cities starting this summer. This commitment will help young adults – especially those living in underserved communities -- gain meaningful work experience and set them on a quality career pathway. And as the regional director for Chase branches throughout New York City, I am proud to announce that we are committing to this program in 2022 and supporting The Mayor’s Fund to Advance NYC, ExpandedED Schools, PENCIL, Inc. and Futures & Options. The jobs supported by this summer youth employment program will expand skill-based and career-specific employment and training opportunities, while giving young employees the experience they need to gain new skills and prepare them for the future of work. In addition to creating new job opportunities for young workers, these summer work experiences are a great way to develop early/foundational work skills; create a professional network of contacts; and earn college

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credentials and/or credits, if applicable. Today’s young people need more education and higherquality work experiences to enter into the workforce and access a successful career path to support themselves, their families and communities. The current challenges created by the pandemic along with increasing uncertainty in the economy means that young people face higher barriers to reaching long-term quality jobs. By investing in local community partners and advancing policy solutions, thousands of young adults from across the country will benefit from having experiences at a critical age that can lead to a bright future. Our young people are the next generation of leaders and they need our help. While we expect them to learn from us, we also have much to learn from them. They see the world differently than their older counterparts and bring a perspective that continues to give us hope for the future. That’s why today’s government, community and business leaders should make these types of investments for our next generation. They create stronger, more resilient communities where economic opportunity is accessible for everyone, regardless of background. That is exactly the type of future we should all want. Sponsored content from JPMorgan Chase & Co

July 21, 2022 - July 27, 2022

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NEWS PAY M E N T A S S I S TA N C E The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) has called on Congress to enact a major down payment assistance program to help counter decades of housing discrimination in Florida, and nationwide, that prevents Blacks and other people of color from becoming homeowners and facilitating intergenerational wealth. In passing H.R. 5376, the original Build Back Better Act, the House included a $10 billion down payment assistance program for first-time, first-generation homebuyers. But now the measure is in jeopardy in the Senate, where lawmakers have been focused on gun control, inflation and war in The Ukraine. Even with these pressing issues, it’s critical that down payment assistance legislation is enacted to bring fairness and equity to our communities. “For decades, Black families and other families of color have been victims of housing discrimination that has prevented them from reaping the generational benefits of home ownership,” said Danny P. Felton, President/CEO of The Experts, LLC and a NAREB Vice President. “As a result, many Black families haven’t been able to pass down homes from generation to generation in their families, creating the wealth that can be used for

BOOST BLACK HOME-OWNERSHIP ANNOUNCED

down payments. That’s why this legislation is so important. It helps right the ship and put Black families on a path towards homeownership and building wealth.” In Florida, a study by Zillow found that Black applicants are denied mortgages by lenders 84% more than Whites. While the Black homeownership rate in Florida is 47%, and above the national average of 43.4%, it’s nearly 30% below the state’s White homeownership rate of 75.6%. The homeownership rate for Hispanics in Florida is 52%. Felton said studies show that many Black families can afford monthly mortgage payments, but are unable to save the money required for the down payment to purchase a home. He explained that federal down payment assistance can boost homeownership for Blacks, other minorities and all low to moderate income families. “There are other options for down payment assistance, but they come with conditions that can hurt a family’s ability to be approved for a mortgage,” said Felton. “Some programs add a second mortgage or stricter wage and credit score requirements.” He also noted that some proposals link down payment assistance to a tax credit, “but that relief does little to help a family that

can’t close on a house because of the size of the down payment. The federal grant program is the best option. It won’t impact an applicant’s ability to qualify for a mortgage.” Lydia Pope, NAREB’s President, urged Congress to act on a down payment assistance program. “Blatant, race-related barriers have curtailed for centuries the expansion of Black wealth in America,” she said. “A typical White family has eight times the wealth of a Black family of similar stature. The median net worth for Black households is $24,000 compared to $188,000 for White families. This hideous cycle can only be broken by improving the major driver of Black wealth in America – intergenerational homeownership that can yield prosperity and family economic security.” Felton noted that biased appraisals are also affecting Black wealth and homebuying. In Tampa,

the average home owned by an African American was valued at $292, 801, while the average home of a White family was valued at $336,235. Around Florida, Black homes are undervalued. In Miami a Black-owned home is valued at $86,000 less than a White home, in Jacksonville at nearly $80,000 less and in Orlando $45,000 less. “There must be an end to appraisal bias when Blacks are selling their homes or need a valuation on new ones,” said Felton, noting that a report by the Biden administration confirms the extent of appraisal bias across the country. “Appraisal bias, as well as other forms of housing discrimination, have been barriers to Black homeownership. Many public and private sector leaders pledged to begin a new era of fairness and equity after the police killing of George Floyd. What we need now is not more words, but actions that can make a difference in our communities.”

CITIZENS FOR JUDICIAL FAIRNESS DENOUNCE COURT APPOINTMENT The grassroots advocacy group Citizens for Judicial Fairness have joined forces with famed civil rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton and local activists Pastor Blaine Hackett and Kendra Ray, sister of Jeremy McDole, to denounce the scheduled confirmation of Nathan Cook to the Delaware Court of Chancery. The confirmation hearing is scheduled for 1:30 PM and Cook is expected to be confirmed easily, despite the fact that his appointment to the Chancery means it will remain all-white. Ray, Hackett, and a representative from Sharpton’s National Action Network will make public comments at the hearing demanding the Senate not confirm Cook given the lack of diversity and equity on the Court. Said Reverend Al Sharpton, “I am deeply disappointed that today, equity will once again be denied

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on the Court of Chancery. It is shameful for the Chancery Court to remain all-white in 2022 when Delaware is 40% people of color

and the decisions the court makes affect millions of Black and brown employees across the country. It is imperative that Delaware’s leaders, starting with Governor

Carney, recognize this egregious wrong and begin taking meaningful steps to restore trust in its justice system through diverse court

appointments.” Said police reform and racial justice activist Keandra Ray, “I’m testifying before the Senate Executive Committee today because the

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lack of diversity in our courts is disgusting. Governor Carney and his cronies in the Senate should be ashamed of this appointment. I’m not going to stop fighting until our courts actually look like us and deliver the justice we deserve.” “230 years of an all-white Chancery Court – and only a single Black justice in the court’s entire history – is a stain on the state of Delaware and an indictment of Governor Carney’s failed leadership,” said Citizens for Judicial Fairness Campaign Manager Chris Coffey. “Delawareans deserve leaders who talk the talk, not just walk the walk, on judicial equity and fairness. We’re going to keep up our efforts to fight the Delaware ‘Old Boys Club’ that excludes and ignores the state’s most vulnerable communities until we see real progress and accountability.” Source: Citizens for Judicial Fairness

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COMMENTARY NYS SUPREME COURT RULING The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen that a New York gun control law requiring a person to show “proper cause,” or a special need for self-protection, to carry a concealed firearm outside their home violates the Second Amendment. This decision limits the ability of states to regulate gun possession and is inconsistent with decades of sensible state-level gun regulation. It comes at a time when the United States is engulfed by rising gun violence, including a historic number of mass shootings. As Justice Breyer explained in a dissenting opinion joined by Justices Sotomayor and Kagan, the Court’s decision represents a sharp departure from its own precedent, and from the precedent of every court of appeals to consider similar restrictions. Specifically, as Justice Breyer pointed out, the Court’s conservative supermajority made clear that it would “refuse to consider the government interests that justify a challenged gun regulation, regardless of how compelling those interests may be.”

GUNS CALLED UNCONSTITUTIONAL

are borne disproportionately by communities of color, and Black communities in particular.” In response to the Bruen decision, LDF released the following statements: LDF President and Director-Counsel Janai S. Nelson: “The Supreme Court’s decision represents an expansive interpretation of the Second Amendment that is inconsistent with its own precedent and will make it more difficult for states and localities to enact reasonable gun control measures— especially in a time of heightened gun violence. Black communities will experience the greatest harm resulting from the Court’s decision to invalidate reasonable gun control laws because Black people are far more likely to be victims of gun violence.

“To be clear, LDF has serious concerns about the racially discriminatory application of firearms regulations, and we are committed to eradicating such discrimination. But these concerns, which were not the basis of the Court’s decision, do not justify wholesale invalidation of reasonable gun control laws under the Second Amendment.” LDF Director of Litigation Sam Spital: “As we saw recently in Buffalo, Black communities are the leading targets of white supremacist gun violence. This is not a recent trend. Indeed, pro-Reconstruction state legislatures originally passed public carry restrictions to protect formerly enslaved Black Americans from white supremacist violence. While purporting to rely on history

in its interpretation of the Second Amendment—and its application to the States by virtue of the Reconstruction Era Fourteenth Amendment—the Court gave short shrift to that history in today’s decision.” Founded in 1940, the Legal Defense Fund (LDF) is the nation’s first civil rights law organization. LDF’s Thurgood Marshall Institute is a multi-disciplinary and collaborative hub within LDF that launches targeted campaigns and undertakes innovative research to shape the civil rights narrative. In media attributions, please refer to us as the Legal Defense Fund or LDF. Please note that LDF has been completely separate from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) since 1957—although LDF was originally founded by the NAACP and shares its commitment to equal rights.

In September 2021, the Legal Defense Fund (LDF) and the National Urban League filed an amicus brief urging the Court to reject the Second Amendment challenge that it embraced today. The brief demonstrated that states’ authority to limit the public carrying of firearms is well established and has resulted in reduced handgun violence and deaths. Such restrictions play a particularly important role in reducing handgun violence against Black people—especially young Black men. As Justice Breyer noted in his dissenting opinion today, “the consequences of gun violence

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New York

Don’t let lawmakers leave New Yorkers out in the cold. The COVID-19 pandemic hit New York hard. Thousands lost jobs. Many of us fell behind on paying utility bills. And now a shutoff moratorium that prevented providers from turning off our heat and electricity has expired. Without action from lawmakers, shutoffs could begin any day, leaving more than a million homes without heat, hot water, or electricity.

facebook.com/AARPNY @AARPNY aarp.org/NY Paid for by AARP

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AARP is ﬁghting to prevent this. But time is running out, and we need your help. Call your state lawmakers and urge them to protect New Yorkers impacted by the COVID pandemic against utility shutoﬀs: call 844-489-1318. July 21, 2022 - July 27, 2022

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ENTER TAINMENT COMCAST NBCUNIVERSAL Comcast NBCUniversal and FaceForward Productions has announced their partnership for the upcoming docuseries The Black Beauty Effect, releasing this fall exclusively on the Black Experience on Xfinity channel, a first-of-its-kind destination of Black entertainment, movies, TV shows, news and more. From creator and executive producers Andrea Lewis (Degrassi: The Next Generation, Black Actress), Emmy-nominee CJ Faison (Giants & Junebug), and Jackie Aina and Kahlana Barfield Brown, the docuseries will closely examine the social change, past and present, within the beauty industry, through the lens of the successful Black women who have led the charge. The Black Beauty Effect is a threepart docuseries capturing the current evolution, revolution, and disruption taking place within the beauty industry. Black beauty influencers, celebrities, and entrepreneurs have taken up the torch passed down from their pioneering predecessors. Each hourlong episode examines a different

aspect of beauty – hair, skin, and makeup – through the lens of some of the beauty industry’s most iconic game-changers. The Black Beauty

AND

FACEFORWARD JOIN FORCES

Effect peels back the gorgeous glow we see in advertisements to tell the ugly truths that have plagued the beauty industry for far too long.

Featuring candid conversations with brand executives, celebrity makeup artists, beauty editors, and more, the docuseries focuses on the impact influencers have had on the industry’s changing perception of beauty. Participants include beauty influencers and EPs Jackie Aina and Kahlana Barfield Brown, former Editor-InChief of ESSENCE Mikki Taylor, influencer and Co-Founder of Melanin Hair Care Whitney White, Executive Vice President and COO of North America Beauty and Personal Care at Unilever Esi Eggleston Bracey, NY Times bestselling author, journalist and the second youngest editor in Condé Nast history Elaine Welteroth, CEO of Sundial Brands Cara Sabin, Beauty Director of Cosmo Julee Wilson, Sr. Beauty Editor of InStyle Kayla Graves, Beauty Director for InStyle Maya Allen, actress, singer, author and activist Amber Riley, Editor-In-Chief of Allure Jessica Cruel, Digital Hair Editor for Allure Jihan Forbes, Creative Marketing Manager at Instagram Brooke DeVard Ozaydinli,

Photo Credit: FaceForward Productions

-- cont'd on Page 8

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A R T S & ENTER TAINMENT

A I L E Y S P I R I T G A L A B E N E F I T C E L E B R AT E D A RT I S T I C D I R E C T O R

 By Ann Brown

Led by Artistic Director Robert Battle, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s 2022 Lincoln Center engagement continued last night with the star-studded Ailey Spirit Gala. The centerpiece of Ailey’s engagement celebrated a decade of Robert Battle’s leadership. The benefit honored Verizon, one of the nation’s leading and largest technology companies, for their generous funding and steadfast support of Ailey’s vital community and education programs including AileyCamp, a transformative, full-scholarship summer day camp that uses dance as a means to help youth stretch their minds, bodies, and spirits. Honorary Chair was Grammy® Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress, singer, and producer Cynthia Erivo, most recently seen in Apple TV+’s anthology series Roar. Erivo will star in Netflix’s

forthcoming feature film Luther alongside Idris Elba and Andy Serkis as well as bring to life the iconic Blue Fairy in Disney’s liveaction retelling of Pinocchio. She will also star in Universal’s film adaptation of the hit musical WICKED. Gala Co-Chairs were Michele & Timothy Barakett, Anthony A. Lewis, Stephen Meringoff, Dr. Danielle Robinson & Reverend Dwayne McClary, and Daria L. & Eric J. Wallach and Dennis Williams. Proceeds will support Ailey’s extensive educational and training programs for young people, including AileyCamp and scholarships to The Ailey School. Guests experienced a powerful one-nightonly performance that united all parts of the Ailey organization performing works by Artistic Director Robert Battle, capping the celebration of his decade-long leadership at Ailey. The evening featured Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Unfold evoking

Ailey II performing Robert Battle’s Takademe at the 2022 Ailey Spirit Gala. Photo by Donna Ward the tenderness and ecstasy in Gustave Charpentier’s aria “Depuis Le Jour” sung

HBCU GRAD WINS TONY AWARD

FOR

by the incomparable Leontyne Price and Love Stories finale, a joyful ballet portraying a luminous future built on the lessons and legacy of the past. The rising stars of Ailey II presented a special amplified version of Battle’s Takademe; where clear shapes and propulsive jumps mimic the vocalized rhythmic syllables of Sheila Chandra’s jazzy score in this percussive, fast-paced work; gifted young dancers from The Ailey School showcased their talents and breadth of the program’s training in an excerpt from Awakening, a dance that expertly balances chaos and resolution, dissonance and harmony; and the talented AileyCampers from New York and Newark performed an excerpt of The Hunt, Battle’s dynamic work revealing the robust side of human nature and the thrill of the hunt. The performance culminated with a memorable Revelations finale.

MJ THE MUSICAL

Bowie State University’s (BSU) Myles Frost has received Broadway’s highest honor, a Tony Award, for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical starring as Michael Jackson in MJ: The Musical. Faculty, students, and administrators at the university are celebrating his history making accomplishment.

Bowie State University family is to know that Myles has won a Tony Award,” said Breaux. “He exemplifies excellence which is one the university’s core values, and he’ll be a role model for other Bowie State students for generations. There seems to be no limits to his artistic talent, and BSU looks forward to supporting him throughout his career.”

“We are absolutely thrilled that Myles Frost has won a Tony Award for his portrayal of music icon Michael Jackson in Broadway’s MJ: The Musical,” said Dr. Aminta Breaux, President of Bowie State University. “Myles is the youngest HBCU student to win a Tony. I believe the best is yet to come,” she said.

Bowie State University (BSU) is an important higher education access portal for qualified persons from diverse academic and socioeconomic backgrounds, seeking a high-quality and affordable public comprehensive university. The university places special emphasis on the science, technology, cybersecurity, teacher education, business, and nursing disciplines within the context of a liberal arts education. For more information about BSU, visit bowiestate.edu.

Frost is also the youngest actor to win a Tony Award solo in his category. He was a 22 year-old junior and budding music

technology major at Bowie State before being selected in 2021 for the starring role on Broadway after the musical’s producers

saw a high school YouTube video of him performing Jackson’s hit “Billie Jean.” “Words can’t express how proud the entire

FIRST BLACK EFFECT PODCAST FESTIVAL ANNOUNCED iHeartMedia and Charlamagne Tha God have announced the first-ever BLACK EFFECT PODCAST FESTIVAL to celebrate, uplift and amplify Black voices in the podcast industry. The event will take place Sunday, August 28 at the Avant Gardner, Brooklyn Mirage. Charlamagne Tha God will join the festival alongside some of the Black Effect’s most popular personalities for a day full of live podcast tapings and informative discussions aimed at aspiring podcasters in the Black community. The festival will be hosted by comedian Lil Duval and Power 105.1 DJ and personality Nyla Symone. For more information on the

inaugural festival, visit blackeffect.com/ podfest for live updates. The Festival will feature live podcast tapings from the Black Effect’s most popular shows including “The 85 South Show,” “All The Smoke,” “We Talk Back,” “Reasonably Shady,” “Black Tech Green Money,” “WHOREible Decisions” and “The Trap Nerds Podcast.” Additionally, ticket holders will hear thought-provoking and informative discussions during the event’s Women in Podcasting Panel and The Business of Podcasting Panel featuring Dollie S. Bishop, President of Production and Creative Development for the Black Effect Podcast

Image Source: Business Wire

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Network and Charlamagne Tha God. “The Black Effect Podcast Network was created to amplify Black voices for new and established content creators and storytellers, giving them a space to showcase their creative vision in the evergrowing podcast game,” said Charlamagne Tha God. “I’m excited to celebrate the first-ever Black Effect Podcast Festival, where talented Black creators and aspiring podcasters will come together for a day to uplift and inspire one another. This festival is for the culture and is one of many events the network will host for the Black community.” The Black Effect Podcast Network has emerged as the leading platform for Black creators to raise their voices and be heard in the podcast space. It brings together the most influential and trusted voices in black culture for stimulating conversations around social justice, pop culture, sports, mental health, news, comedy and more. Launched in September 2020, the Black Effect Podcast Network has since debuted 32 shows, featuring a luminous roster of marquee talent and culture-shifting voices committed to enlightening, educating and entertaining audiences, curated by Charlamagne Tha God himself. The Black Effect Podcast Festival is sponsored by Nissan who will be on-site at the festival with an engaging activation for attendees. In addition, the festival will

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also feature a variety of other entertaining activities and games such as a pop-up market showcasing merchandise from Black businesses, a family game room, and a photo booth. Black Effect Podcast Network partners include AT&T, BetterHelp, Hulu, Molson Coors, Nissan and State Farm. Fans can visit blackeffect.com/podfest beginning July 6 at 10 a.m. EST to purchase tickets. The Black Effect Podcast Network is a transformative network founded by renowned cultural architect, executive producer, bestselling author, and media mogul Charlamagne Tha God. In a historic joint venture with the world’s number one commercial podcast publisher, iHeartMedia, Charlamagne and iHeartMedia created the ground-breaking first-ever Black Effect Podcast Network, celebrating the most important Black culture-shapers on the planet—in education, politics, entertainment, sports and pop culture. The Black Effect Podcast Network gives rise to emerging and established content creators and storytellers whose perspective and creative vision have been marginalized and overlooked while serving an audience that has been underserved. The Black Effect Podcast Network helps its partners define their place in podcast culture through influence, ideas, and experiences that engage, inspire, inform and empower. Source: iHeartMedia

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ENTER TAINMENT

LA LAKERS SIGN SONS OF NBA LEGENDS

Shareef O’Neal and Scotty Pippen Jr., the sons of former NBA legends, have recently signed two-way contracts with the Los Angeles Lakers. Shareef, who is 22-years old, is the son of Lakers icon Shaquille O’Neal who played in the NBA from 1992 to 2010. Scotty, Jr., who is 21-years-old, is the son of six-time NBA champion Scottie Pippen who played in the NBA from 1987 to 1999. Shareef is a 6-foot-10 power forward who previously played at LSU. He struggled during his last season due to his health and some injuries. Shareef even revealed his father wanted him to just stay in school because of his

condition. Still, he pushed through and will start playing for the Lakers in next month’s Summer League. Meanwhile, Scotty had played for Vanderbilt’s Commodores for the past 3 years. He was initially undrafted in both rounds of the NBA Draft but eventually received a call from the Lakers. The two players expressed their excitement on Twitter after signing the deal. “Thank you for this opportunity,” Shareef said, along with a throwback video of his young self wearing a Lakers jersey. “Dream come true. Let’s get to work #lakeshow,” Scotty wrote.

COMCAST NBCUNIVERSAL makeup artist, author and the first Black spokesperson and ambassador for Revlon and Covergirl Sam Fine, VP of Marketing at Thrive Causemetics Tiffani Carter, celebrity hairstylist, beauty expert and entrepreneur Kim Kimble, visionary hairstylist Ursula Stephen, celebrity hairstylist Chuck Amos, influencer Shalom Blac, beauty vlogger and activist Nyma Tang, beauty influencer Ellarie, model, influencer and entrepreneur Choyce Brown, drag queen and comedian Bob The Drag Queen, Founder of The Lip Bar Melissa Butler, co-founder of Topicals Olamide Olowe, founder of Marsha’s Makeovers and MUA Marsha Page, VP of Marketing at Ulta Beauty Karla Davis, CEO and founder of Ami Colé Diarrha N’Diaye, CEO and co-founder of Mented Cosmetics KJ Miller, Creative Director of L’Oreal Sir John, Director of Face & Multicultural Beauty at L’Oreal Balanda Atis, CEO of Black Opal Cosmetics Desiree Rogers, Founder of Carol’s Daughter Lisa Price, owner of Aglow Dermatology Dr. Dina Strachan, Professor in the Department of American Studies at California State University, Fullerton Kristin Rowe, Associate Professor of Sociology Sabrina Strings PH.D., board certified awardwinning dermatologist and AAD fellow Dr. Jeanine Downie and more. "The Black Beauty Effect is one of my dream projects,” said series creator Andrea Lewis. “As someone who grew up in the television and film industry, I’ve sat in more makeup chairs than I can count, and I have experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly of what it’s like being a Black woman and navigating the beauty space. I’ve always wanted to create a story that captured the fullness of our impact in the beauty industry, from the celebrity makeup artists, the Black beauty editors, and the countless beauty content creators. They’ve all been a part of bringing light to our impact. Comcast Xfinity has

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been amazing, and we couldn’t have asked for a better partner who not only believes in our story but also put their full support behind Black filmmakers." “We’re thrilled to work with creator Andrea Lewis and FaceForward Productions to bring the exclusive premiere of The Black Beauty Effect to the Black Experience on Xfinity channel, furthering our company-wide mission of investing in authentic Black stories and amplifying voices that deserve to be heard,” said Keesha Boyd, Executive Director, Multicultural Video & Entertainment, Xfinity Consumer Services and Executive Producer of The Black Beauty Effect. “Through this partnership, we hope to highlight and celebrate the contributions of the Black community to the beauty industry, while also shine a light on the stories of the women who pushed for necessary change.” The Black Beauty Effect is directed by Kwanza Nicole Gooden and produced by FaceForward Productions. The series was created by Andrea Lewis, who serves as Executive Producer along with CJ Faison, Jackie Aina, and Kahlana Barfield Brown. Emmynominated Takara Joseph and Summer Griffiths (Scale Productions) serve as producers, alongside Andrena Hale as showrunner. “The FaceForward Productions team jumped at the opportunity to executive produce and bring The Black Beauty Effect series to life to continue uplifting and amplifying the majesty and ingenuity of Black women. This series sets the stage to create a cultural movement worldwide, honoring Black women’s contributions and deeply embedded influence in the beauty industry. In the spirit of our company’s mission to capture the shared human experience through one forwardfacing, culturally-nuanced lens, we knew joining forces with Andrea Lewis and Comcast would offer the perfect partnership,” said CJ Faison, Founder/ CEO, FaceForward Productions.

Black Experience on Xfinity is a first-of-its-kind destination of Black entertainment, movies, TV shows, news and more. Available at home on Xfinity X1 and Flex, and on-the-go with the Xfinity Stream app, the Black Experience on Xfinity features original and high-quality content from Comcast NBCUniversal and other major studios, in addition to content from many of Xfinity’s existing network partners, at no additional cost to Xfinity customers. The channel is the only one of its kind endorsed by the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA), the world's largest group of Black film critics that gives annual awards for excellence in film and television. Xfinity customers can access the Black Experience on channel 1622 or simply say “Black Experience” into the Voice Remote to instantly enjoy the ultimate in Black storytelling. Visit https://www.xfinity.com/learn/ digital-cable-tv/black-experience to learn more about the Black Experience on Xfinity and other Black programming available on X1, Flex, and the Xfinity Stream app. For more information on The Black Beauty Effect, go to @blackbeautyeffect on social media and continue the conversation using the hashtag #BlackBeautyEffect. ABOUT COMCAST CORPORATION Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock,

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NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www. comcastcorporation.com for more information. Before celebrating her 16th birthday, Andrea Lewis had already acted alongside Hollywood heavyweights such as Diahann Carroll in The Natalie Cole Story and Wesley Snipes and Dr. Maya Angelou in her directorial debut, the critically acclaimed Down in the Delta. After wrapping up on the Disney movie Cadet Kelly alongside Hilary Duff, Lewis soon spent 6 seasons on the hit show Degrassi: The Next Generation and became known around the world as "Hazel" as millions of North Americans tuned in each week to watch Andrea in the Award-winning drama. After Degrassi, she went on to other leading roles on Showtime, Nickelodeon and BET. Then taking her career to another level, Lewis started Jungle Wild Productions, where she wrote, starred in and produced the award-winning web series’ “Black Actress.” Lewis has continued to create as a filmmaker, with multiple web series, short films, television pilots and digital content. ABOUT FACEFORWARD PRODUCTIONS Emmy-nominated Executive Producer, Founder and CEO, CJ Faison, started FaceForward Productions in 2018 to create universally groundbreaking content told from the perspectives of people of color. FaceForward Productions works to elevate the voices of those often overlooked by capturing the shared human experience through one forwardfacing, culturally-nuanced lens. Flagship projects like FaceForward Productions' critically acclaimed short film, Junebug, and the ode to Black women's ingenuity, The Black Beauty Effect, exhibit a diverse yet deeply moving slate of content. FaceForward Productions creates masterfully crafted content that spark cultural moments around the world.

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BUSINE S S A L L I A N C E F O R M E D T O A D D R E S S W E A LT H G A P Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice for America’s 32.5 million small businesses in President Biden’s Cabinet, signed a Strategic Alliance Memorandum (SAM)– an authority unique to the SBA among federal agencies–with President Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq., on behalf of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC)’s Council of Presidents, comprised of nine historically Black fraternities and sororities, sometimes referred to as the “Divine Nine.” “This historic alliance between the SBA and the NPHC—the first of its kind for a government agency—will bring SBA’s valuable small business resources into reach for many small businesses and entrepreneurs, furthering the BidenHarris Administration’s commitment to build equity and close historic wealth gaps that have held back America’s Black entrepreneurs, small business owners and their families and communities for generations,” said Administrator Guzman. “Over the past 18 months, the SBA has made incredible progress reaching more of America’s small businesses, delivering vital resources and support to entrepreneurs who have been historically underinvested in and overlooked—the same people and communities hit hardest by the COVID pandemic. Working alongside partners and allies within the Divine Nine will provide even greater reach for the SBA to better provide the highly entrepreneurial Black community access to networks, financial literacy,

DE VELOPMENT GREENWOOD, the digital banking platform for Black and Latino individuals and business owners, has announced the acquisition of Valence, the leading platform that connects, showcases, and empowers the Black professional community through their recruitment and professional development products. This acquisition will provide Greenwood’s community of nearly one million Black professionals with access to tens of thousands of job listings and

technical training, and capital readiness so they can successfully realize their American Dreams of business ownership, create jobs, and advance our economy.” Announced in the leadup to Juneteenth, this new strategic alliance advances the SBA’s implementation of the BidenHarris Administration’s commitment to building equity throughout the federal government and across America. Chris V. Rey, International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. relishes in his brainchild effort. “Under the new alliance, a unique agreement for a federal government agency and the Divine Nine, the partnership will focus on increasing financial literacy within traditionally underserved, disadvantaged communities, expanding the Agency’s outreach, and introducing Black entrepreneurs to the SBA’s suite of tools and resources to start and grow their businesses including access to capital, government contracting opportunities and counseling.” Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq., Chairman of the Council of Presidents of the National Pan-Hellenic Council: “The National Pan Hellenic Council and its affiliate organizations are very excited about this opportunity with the U.S. Small Business Administration. This collaboration will give NPHC members critical access to information that will promote small business growth and create jobs in all sectors of our economy.” The SBA Has Deepened its Engagement and Support of African American, Black

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companies to find outstanding Black talent. Valence plays a key role in connecting the innovation economy to the Black community and specifically addressing the lack of diversity in leadership in high paying industries such as finance and technology. Valence has raised over $7 million from investors such as GGV Capital and Upfront Ventures. “We’re being very targeted in how we can

THE FOUNDERS OF GREENWOOD, THE GATHERING SPOT, AND VALENCE (Graphic: Business Wire)

career opportunities through the Valence Pipeline recruiting database. This will also help companies diversify their workforces at every level, from early career to C-suite. Valence was founded in 2019 by Kobie Fuller, Chairman of Valence and General Partner at Upfront Ventures, and also Emily Slade and LaMer Walker to create a centralized community network of Black professionals and easily create a pipeline for

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and Historically Disadvantaged Small Business Owners. In line with the Biden-Harris Administration’s agenda outlined in the recently released SBA Equity Action Plan, the SBA has instituted several major changes to level the playing field for all small businesses, including making impactful reforms to the Community Advantage (CA) Pilot loan program that prioritizes equitable access to capital for low-income borrowers and those from underserved communities, releasing disaggregated data across industries and sectors by race and ethnicity and helping to deliver contracting reforms to bring in new, diverse contractors, and launching the American Rescue Plan’s $100 million Community Navigators program.

drive economic opportunity and wealth creation in the Black community," said Mr. Fuller. “Joining with Greenwood is a commitment to our community and accelerates our mission towards creating new paths to success for Black professionals and fuels our efforts towards closing the racial wealth gap.” "Emerging Black leaders continue to face enormous challenges navigating career

NEW COMMUNITY OUTREACH

development and advancement, while companies and leadership struggle to attract and retain Black talent in their executive ranks," said Guy Primus, CEO of Valence. "Valence provides a platform for executives, employers and Black business leaders to take meaningful steps to accelerate Black representation in the C-suite and drive positive change in corporate America." As a result of this acquisition, Mr. Fuller will join the advisory board of Greenwood. Mr. Primus will continue in the role as CEO of Valence, in addition to being named as a Vice President at Greenwood. Valence offers two specific products that help with professional development and career growth.  Pipeline recruiting database: Pipeline is Valence’s recruiting database, a central hub for Black talent available to corporate recruiters looking to diversify their workforce at all levels including the C-suite. Over 400 corporations have partnered with Valence to source and recruit diverse talent.  BONDS professional development: BONDS is Valence’s professional development program for emerging Black leaders, designed for Black professionals with 5 to 15 years of work experience. Through coaching, community and curriculum, BONDS allows members to unlock their full potential and set them on the path to realizing their goals. By partnering with Valence’s BONDS, companies show their dedication to supporting the growth and development of Black talent. In addition to these products, in 2020 Valence launched a new initiative called the Valence Funding Network to link Black entrepreneurs with top partners at firms including Accel, Sequoia, GGV, First Round

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SBA remains committed to increasing capital for small businesses, including those in underserved communities. This means ensuring entrepreneurs have access to capital, standard and disaster lending programs, and PPP direct forgiveness as well as assistance in growing their revenues by getting their products online or into global markets and accessing federal contracting opportunities, often by connecting them to one of the Agency’s newly launched Community Navigators, hundreds of Field Offices, or thousands of Resource Partners – including Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers, SCORE chapters, and Veterans Business Ownership Centers – for mentoring, training, and assistance in navigating government resources.

Capital, Bessemer Ventures, Greylock, and Upfront Ventures. Through the initiative, Black founders and future founders have the opportunity to connect with General Partners of the firm for mentorship and coaching. This announcement follows Greenwood’s recent acquisition of The Gathering Spot, a private membership network focused on the Black community. Together the combined conglomerate of Greenwood Inc, includes Greenwood, The Gathering Spot and Valence, all with a shared mission and vision of closing the racial wealth gap and providing the tools and education needed to empower the Black community to build generational wealth. “This is a powerful moment in Black business history where we are combining three of the strongest communities focused on Black professionals and their career and financial needs,” said Ryan Glover, Co-founder & Chairman at Greenwood. “Adding the Valence platform to the benefits of Greenwood membership means we are supporting, educating, and we are connecting Black community directly to the job opportunities they need to grow their career and build generational wealth. By working together, we are laying the foundation for the future success of Black people for years to come.” “Combining our financial content with the professional advice and support Valence provides means that Greenwood members will have an invaluable set of tools in their tool kit,” said Ryan Wilson, Chief of Community for Greenwood and Co-founder/ CEO of The Gathering Spot. “The quality and functionality of the Valence platform brings a new level of access and professional options to the one million members of -- cont'd on Page 10

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HE ALTH WHY DISABILITY STRIKES PEOPLE WITH MS In the past multiple sclerosis (MS) was thought to primarily affect whites. However, studies have shown a higher incidence of MS in the Black community with newly diagnosed cases. Black people who are diagnosed with MS may develop more severe symptoms than other races. A new study may help explain why people with MS experience worsening disability while those with two related diseases do not. MS SYMPTOMS IN BLACKS Blacks may experience different symptoms than people with MS of other races, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society:  more frequent relapses and poorer recovery  more walking problems  more balance and coordination problems  more problems with thinking  earlier disability onset  more visual symptoms MS also causes permanent brain and spinal cord scarring. Researchers investigated whether the same damage accompanies two rarer, similar diseases in which the immune system also attacks the central nervous system.

The diseases are known as aquaporin-4 antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-NMOSD) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disorder (MOGAD). All three illnesses involve inflammation that damages myelin, the insulation

these three diseases more easily to aid in diagnosis,” senior study author Eoin Flanagan says. “More importantly, our findings improve our understanding of the mechanisms of nerve damage in these three diseases and may suggest an important role of such scars in the

around nerves. The body tries to repair the myelin, but the fix may be incomplete and result in scarring. “The differences in scarring that we found will help physicians distinguish

development of long-term disability in MS.” The new study included 67 patients with MS; 51 with AQP4-NMOSD; and 38 with MOGAD.

In MS, attacks cause areas of inflammation that shrink only slightly and leave moderately sized scars. During AQP4-NMOSD attacks, large areas of inflammation occur that commonly leave scars. But those scars tend to be smaller and in less important neurological locations than with MS. MOGAD patients also have large areas of inflammation during an attack, but scarring is rarer. This suggests that there is a need for an enhanced ability to repair the damaged myelin, according to findings recently published in the journal Neurology. “Our study highlights the importance of the currently available MS medications that very effectively can prevent attacks, new lesions and subsequent scar formation,” Dr. Elia Sechi, first author, says. Flanagan says researchers hope that the improved understanding of how MOGAD repairs its lesions may lead to novel ways to prevent scar formation in MS. There is no cure for MS, but this research will help. The right treatment and medication will also help slow the progression of the disease, relieve symptoms and reduce the number of relapses as well as the severity.

A H A G R A N T S A I M T O I M P R O V E C O M M U N I T Y H E A LT H The American Heart Association®, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on longer, healthier lives for all, has extended the application deadline for EmPOWERED To Serve Business Accelerator™ financial grant awards that empower entrepreneurs whose innovative ideas address health disparities in underresourced communities. Now through June 19, 2022, interested entrepreneurs may apply to the grant program at empoweredtoserve.org/accelerator. About 50 million people in the United States are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease because they lack the most basic needs — healthy food, clean air and drinking water, quality education, employment and housing. Historically, people of color, including Black and Hispanics/Latinos individuals, have higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) largely due to social factors. For example, cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death for Americans – about 60% of adult Black men and women have CVD. Through the EmPowered To Serve Business Accelerator, the American Heart Association supports communities, small

businesses, social entrepreneurs and innovators who are working to reduce health disparities and create ground-breaking social change. Grants are a crucial part of this support as organizers of community health efforts struggle with fewer resources to address an increased demand for services. The Association provides communities with a bank of resources that help them quickly address barriers to health equity. Applicants must provide proposed business solutions to specifically address and improve challenges presented by the social determinants of health — the social and economic conditions in which people are born, live, learn, work and play — in historically excluded communities. Upon selection, candidates will begin six weeks of intensive, online business training before presenting their proposed business solutions to a panel of expert judges at the EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator Finale, which is scheduled to occur on October 20, 2022. At that time, select candidates will have the opportunity to receive financial grants to operationalize models in their specific communities. The Accelerator’s core curriculum offers

formal instruction on design thinking, customer discovery, market positioning, brand development, fundraising and other essential business functions to help entrepreneurs enhance their business models and demonstrate the viability of projects. Since 2017, the Accelerator program has trained nearly 80 social entrepreneurs and organizations and provided almost $900,000 in financial grants. Business Accelerator alumni continue to support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association by participating in local volunteer boards and serving as brand ambassadors at special events and in community meetings. To learn more, visit empoweredtoserve.org.  ABOUT THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173 Justice Harkless: 214.706.1783; Justice. Harkless@heart.org For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (2428721) heart.org and stroke.org

A H A G R A N T S A I M T O I M P R O V E C O M M U N I T Y H E A LT H our ambitious community and it gives recruiters access to nearly a million Black professionals, creatives and entrepreneurs.” To learn more and join the Greenwood and Valence community, visit https:// BankGreenwood.com/Valence. ABOUT VALENCE Valence's mission is to create new paths to success for Black professionals. The Valence platform connects, showcases and empowers the Black professional community

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through professional development and career opportunities, with an eye toward a future where there are generations of Black professionals who are skilled in the art of business. Valence also partners with companies to help them recruit, retain and promote Black talent. Join by signing up at www.valence.community and follow along on Instagram at @ValenceCommunity. ABOUT GREENWOOD Greenwood is the digital banking platform

for Black and Latino individuals and businesses. Greenwood’s mission is to support financial freedom for minorities through community building, career advancement, and financial services. Greenwood’s flagship product is a bestin-class digital banking service provided by partnering with FDIC-insured banks. Greenwood Inc, includes The Gathering Spot, a private membership network and Valence, the career development and

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job recruiting platform. The combined community has over 1 million people. Greenwood’s founders include Civil Rights leader Andrew J. Young and Ryan Glover, founder of the Bounce TV Network. Greenwood has raised funding from six of the top seven banks including Citi, JPMorgan Chase, PNC and Truist as well as other companies including Visa, Mastercard and SoftBank. Source: Greenwood, Inc.

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C H A R L I E W I L S O N H E A D L I N E M U S I C F E S T I VA L

Premier ticket and hotel reseller, Berrywise Enterprise is providing ticket and hotel packages for the 2022 Cincinnati Music Festival. The iconic event will happen from Thursday, July 21 to Saturday, July 23, at the Paul Brown Stadium on the Cincinnati riverfront. Attendees will have a memorable experience with prime seating and accommodations. “Here at Berrywise Enterprise, we are dedicated to you and your Cincinnati Music Festival ticket and hotel needs,” says Zachary Berry, founder of the company. “We’ve won a number of great comments for our work with the festival. But, our most important win is making you a happy, life-long patron.” The Cincinnati Music Festival is one of the nation’s oldest and most highly

anticipated music festivals, attracting local and regional guests from across the Midwest. Each year, the festival showcases a bevy of old-school artists, along with the hottest contemporary R&B performers. This annual event draws a crowd of almost 50K music lovers. This year’s line-up includes the legendary talent of Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, The O’Jays, After7, Tank, Tony, Toni, Tone, Anthony Hamilton, Johnathan Butler, Kirk Whalum, Ari Lennox, Arin Ray, and BJ The Chicago Kidd. Ticket prices start at $80 and are available a la carte or within a bundle. Visit BerryWiseEnterprise.com to purchase packages/tickets and for festival updates.

B L AC K R AC I NG T E A M M A K E S H I S TO RY Force Indy race team, an African American-owned race team, made history again in Birmingham, Alabama when the team competed in the 2022 Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires championship. Haitian American Ernie Francis, Jr. drove the #99 Force Indy car during the weekend of April 29th – May 1st. The team made its Indy Lights debut on February 25th on the Streets of St. Petersburg. During its inaugural season in the 2021 Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship, the team made history as the first African American-owned race team to win an INDYCAR-sanctioned race with African American driver Myles Rowe. In December 2020, African American business leader and former racing team manager Rod Reid formed Force Indy with a focus on hiring men and women of color, including mechanics, engineers, staffers, and drivers. “Each day we hit the track, we do it in honor of the late Dewey “Rajo Jack” Gatson, one of the winningest African American drivers and mechanics in racing history. He paved the way for us to be here today,” says Team Principal Rod Reid. “At Barber, we’re looking forward to being consistent, finishing well, and proudly representing our community.” The signature red tail on Force Indy’s race car is in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen’s distinctive red-painted tails on their fighter aircraft. During World War II, they fought racial injustice and segregation to participate in 15,000 missions as bomber escorts. The team’s #99 was selected in honor of the roadster driven by the late Dewey “Rajo Jack” Gatson, who never received an opportunity to race in the Indianapolis 500. Force Indy Driver Ernie Francis, Jr., 24, has three wins under his belt from his Formula Regional Americas Championship and a second-place

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Image Source: blackenterprise.com

finish in the inaugural season of the Superstar Racing Experience (SRX), with a win at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. He’s a seven-time class champion in the Trans Am Series (2014-2020). His 47 career victories are the most of any driver in Trans Am history. His 24 wins in the premier TA category trail only Paul Gentilozzi (31), Mark Donohue (29), and Tommy Kendall (28). The Force Indy team looks to benefit from the relationship with the legendary Roger Penske, winners of a record 18 Indianapolis 500’s and 16 NTT

INDYCAR SERIES championships. Team Penske will continue to offer mentorship for Force Indy, as the initiative also falls under Penske Entertainment Corp.’s “Race for Equality & Change” announced in July 2020. The goals include recruiting and developing a diverse workforce throughout all levels of INDYCAR and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, ultimately creating a community that fundamentally transforms the sport. Force Indy is a race team created specifically to develop talent with a diverse group of individuals, outside

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as well as inside the cockpit. The foundation of Force Indy is the racing background of Team Principal, Rod Reid and a mentorship alliance with Team Penske—the most successful team in motorsports history. The team leadership brings years of experience from grassroots racing to the Road to Indy ladder system. The organization concentrates on developing skills that promote success at the highest level. Force Indy’s vision is to see motorsports grow ethnically, educationally, and across gender. Learn more at ForceIndy. com.

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https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?zx=ld2z5i3vd88n#all/FMfcgxwGCbCQhNdHjXsLPgXPHMWBNxvd?projector=1&messagePartId=0.1

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BIG CITIES HEALTH COALITION

PROTECT KIDS. ADVANCE HEALTH EQUITY. SAVE LIVES. THE FDA HAS OUR FULL SUPPORT TO PROHIBIT MENTHOL CIGARETTES AND FLAVORED CIGARS. For decades, Big Tobacco has targeted Black Americans, kids and other communities with menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars, profiting at the expense of lives and health. By advancing rules to prohibit these flavored tobacco products, the FDA is taking historic action to save lives and protect future generations from addiction. This lifesaving policy must be finalized and implemented without delay.

TOBACCOFREEKIDS.ORG/STOPMENTHOL Paid for by Tobacco-Free Kids Action Fund

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