New York Trend NYC: October 13 – 19, 2022

MAYOR DAVID DINKINS, REP. CHARLES RANGEL, HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

BET FOUNDER JOINS INDUSTRY LEADERS TO SAVE $ 619 BILLION IN RETiREMENT FUNDS

Retirement Clearinghouse, LLC (RCH), an RLJ Company, Fidelity Investments, Vanguard, and Alight Solutions announced that they have collaborated to create a consortium of workplace retirement plan recordkeepers, Portability Services Network, LLC, to accelerate the nationwide adoption of auto portability to help America’s under-served and under-saved workers improve their retirement outcomes.  In announcing the consortium, Bob Johnson, who founded BET and the RLJ Companies said, “For many years, I have been focused on finding business solutions to addressing the significant wealth gap facing minorities, and I am delighted to see the leaders in the retirement services industry come together with my company, RCH, to accelerate the nationwide adoption of auto portability as part of our vision for helping under-served and under-saved Americans achieve financial security. This is truly a historic moment for the industry, as well as our country and is the first step to reduce the wealth gap between Black and white households in this country.  I urge Black organizations, Black elected officials, and the Black community to contact their workplace benefits office and 401(k) record keeper companies to encourage them to fully adopt 401(k) auto portability.”

The Black Stars News 2015 Annual Awards Dinner will honor Mayor David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central Park Five survivors of gross injustice on December 18 from 6:00pm –10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West 116th Street

prematurely cash out their 401(k) savings accounts and pay taxes and penalties on those cash-outs, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI). Workers with less than $5,000—the focus of the auto portability service—cash out at the time of their job change at much higher rates than all job-changing workers.

“As a leader in the workplace benefits industry, Fidelity is committed to improving the private retirement system to benefit all American workers,” said Kevin Barry, President of the Workplace Investing Division at Fidelity Investments “We are excited about the opportunity to work with RCH and other leaders in our industry to focus squarely on ‘connecting and protecting’

“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.”

was a member of the New York

"As an industry, we have a responsibility to American workers to remove barriers to retirement preparedness and increase their chances for investment success,” said John James, Managing Director and Head of Vanguard Institutional Investor Group “The formation of this consortium directly complements Vanguard’s ongoing efforts to simplify investing and drive positive participant outcomes.”

The consortium currently represents approximately 43.8 million workers across more than 48,000 employer-sponsored retirement plans, based on data published by Pensions & Investments. Its members have established an independent entity, Portability Services Network, LLC

The need for auto portability has been driven by the lack of seamless plan-to-plan savings portability amid a highly mobile workforce.  Cashing out has traditionally been seen as an easier option than the current manual, often cumbersome and time-consuming process of transferring from plan-toplan—and cash-out rates for job-changing minorities, low-income workers, and women are also higher than average.

Retirement Clearinghouse developed its auto portability solution in conjunction with the private and public sectors to reverse this trend. EBRI estimates that if auto portability was broadly adopted, over the course of a 40-year period an additional $1.5 trillion in savings would be preserved in the U.S. retirement system. Auto portability will help:  67 million Black and minority workers save $619 billion  42 million women workers of all ethnicities save $365 billion

Approximately $92 billion in savings leaves the U.S. retirement system every year because Americans who switch jobs

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. Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored for Lifetime Achievement, has served in Congress since 1971. He is a recipient of The Bronze medal for helping save soldiers behind enemy line during the Korean War Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic member of the US House of Representatives from New York whose 9th district covers much of central Brooklyn. Before entering Congress in 2007, she

workers’ retirement savings, thereby improving retirement outcomes, particularly those for under-served and under-saved workers.”

of properties under development or management — he was one of the pioneering developerswho helped turn around and revitalize the once-blighted Anacostia neighborhood in Washington, D.C. A champion of African-American economic empowerment Peebles’ is contemplating a possible run for NYC mayor in 2017.

“We were honored to be the first 401(k) plan recordkeeper to implement auto portability for our clients,” said Alison Borland, Executive Vice President of Wealth Solutions at Alight “Two years later, industry awareness and the momentum behind this vital solution have grown significantly, and we look forward to working with our fellow industry leaders to reduce our country’s retirement-savings shortfall.”

Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil rights lawyer, is a champion of protecting voting rights of ethnic minority groups — the emerging

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

BLUE!

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

CELEBRATING30 YEARS!

as its chairman, and is designed to include up to three additional major recordkeepers as owners. PSN’s owners will govern the network as an industry utility designed with the goal of operating at the lowest cost to workers participating in auto portability. PSN is open to all recordkeepers to connect. The recordkeepers that own or participate in PSN will not receive any compensation for facilitating auto portability transactions from participants. For more information, please visit https://info.rch1.com/request-psninfo or email sales@RCH1.com

majority. She now leads The Transformative Justice Coalition. Arnwine was for 26 years executive Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law. , honoree, formerly a member, is now council member and a champion of education for

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 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

(PSN), which will utilize Retirement Clearinghouse’s auto portability solution to build a nationwide digital hub connecting workplace retirement plan recordkeepers and the plan sponsors they serve. PSN will act as a clearinghouse for automatically locating a participant’s active workplace retirement account in their current employer’s plan and transferring the same participant’s account from their prior employer’s plan into their active account. In addition to Alight, Vanguard, and Fidelity, the Portability Services Network will be majority owned by RCH with Mr. Johnson

Retirement Clearinghouse, LLC is the leading provider of portability and consolidation services for defined contribution plans, acting as a trusted, unbiased intermediary between plan sponsors, participants, recordkeepers and other parties. Retirement Clearinghouse’s integrated financial technology, data and information solutions facilitate automated consolidation of small, redundant accounts for sponsors to improve plan performance, and enable participants, regardless of account balance, to seamlessly transport their retirement savings through every phase of their careers. These solutions include a domestic call center providing specialized assistance designed to enable end-to-end portability and account consolidation; uncashed check services; and the capability to search for lost and missing participants. Retirement Clearinghouse works with more than 34,000 retirement plans and has helped guide over 1.8 million plan participants with more than $28 billion in retirement savings. Retirement Clearinghouse is a portfolio company of The RLJ Companies, founded by Robert L. Johnson. For more information, please visit www.rch1.com

Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their company Front Row Production, brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” with a multi-ethnic cast to Broadway. In 2016 they bring “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. 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.

Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder of World of Money, is a champion of financial literacy for youth-- she teaches knowledge about handling money, budgeting and planning.

Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of the nation’s leading educators. He’s president of Medgar Evers College of The City University of New

Alight is a leading cloud-based human capital technology and services provider that powers confident health, wealth and wellbeing decisions for 36 million people and dependents. Our Alight Worklife® platform combines data and analytics with a simple, seamless user experience. Supported by our global delivery capabilities, Alight Worklife is transforming the employee experience for people around the world. With personalized, data-driven health, wealth, pay

Past Black Star News honorees have included: Gil Noble (Like It Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William Pollard (Medgar Evers College), Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna Fountain (Columbia University), Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National Action Network), and many others.

David Dinkins

Charles Rangel

Bob Johnson, founder of BET and the RLJ Companies

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

INAUGURAL YOUNG ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS CEREMONY

Clark Atlanta University’s Office of Alumni Relations and Engagement will host the university’s first 40 Under 40 Awards Ceremony to highlight its graduates and their advancement in their industries.

Selected nominees represent rising entrepreneurs, influencers, creators, professionals, and executives shaping culture, leading in their communities, excelling in their fields, and paving the way for the next generation.

“Our charge is amplifying our legacy and these awards do exactly that.  We are shining a spotlight on our young professionals who are making tomorrow’s history today,” says Dr. Lorri L. Saddler, Vice President, Alumni Relations and Engagement

The awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, October 13, 2022. The Office of Alumni Relations and Engagement encourages alums and the entire CAU community to pay close attention to its Instagram @caualumnirelations, Clark Atlanta University’s homecoming website www.homecomingatcau. com and all CAU social media platforms for the location reveal.

The awardees will elevate their outreach to the CAU community by mentoring students and alums, supporting scholarship fundraising, and maintaining an ongoing commitment to the university. More than one

hundred alumni were nominated for the honor. For more information about the 40 Under 40 initiative, email Dr. Lorri L. Saddler, Vice President of Alumni Relations and Engagement, at alumni@ cau.edu

Established in 1988 by the historical consolidation of Atlanta University (1865) and Clark College (1869),  Clark Atlanta University continued a 150-year legacy rooted in AfricanAmerican tradition and focused on the future.

Through global innovation, transformative educational experiences, and high-value engagement,   CAU cultivates lifted lives that transform the world. Notable alumni include: James Weldon Johnson; American civil rights activist, poet, and songwriter (Lift Every Voice and Sing "The Black National Anthem"; Ralph David Abernathy Sr., American civil rights activist; Congressman Hank Johnson, Georgia District 4; Kenya Barris, American award-winning television and movie producer; Kenny Leon, Tony Award-winning Broadway Director; Jacque Reid, Emmy Award-winning Television Personality and Journalist; Brandon Thompson, Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion for NASCAR; Valeisha Butterfield Jones, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the Recording Academy

BLACK COLLEGE EXPO AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS

The 5th Annual Dallas Black College Expo™ is a Live event hosted by National College Resources Foundation (NCRF) on Saturday, October 15, 2022, from 10 am to 4 pm at Paul Quinn College, 3837 Simpson Stuart Rd., Dallas, TX  75241. This expo is an in-person experience where students gain access to 50+ colleges, highlighting historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and other educational institutions.

“We are so excited to be live in Dallas. The pandemic has created a whole new wave of mental health issues, which has affected graduation rates, college persistence and retention. The expo really brings positivity vibes to the community and resources to help underserved students and communities thrive. We want our students in Dallas and surrounding areas to know they matter and the expo does just that,” says NCRF Founder/CEO, Dr.

Theresa Price

The Dallas Black College Expo™ is an opportunity for students to be accepted on the spot, have their college application fees waived, and receive scholarships. This event offers a direct pathway for high school juniors, seniors, and community college students looking to transfer to a four-year college.   In addition to getting connected to college recruiters, students

will also have access to NCRF's African Americans in Aviation Traveling Museum historic exhibit, informative

seminars and workshops which include but are not limited to How to Find Money for College, Why Attend an HBCU, 411

for the Student Athlete, and How to Start a Business NCRF is honored to have Miss Black Texas USA 2023, Aryana Bosh, currently in a Doctoral program in Occupational Therapy, participating in Expo.

NCRF has partnered with American Airlines who will be interviewing students for internships and career opportunities. NCRF is also grateful for the support of US Army, Comerica, Toyota, and the Dallas Mavericks

To register to attend, please visit: www. ncrfoundation.org or call 877-427-4100.

Black College Expo™ (BCE) is a trademarked program of the National College Resources Foundation (NCRF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational enhancement organization serving over 200,000 students annually. BCE was founded in 1999 by Dr. Theresa Price to serve as a vital link between minorities and college admissions.

NCRF’s mission is to curtail the high school dropout rate and increase degree and/or certificate enrollment among underserved, underrepresented, at-risk, low-resource, homeless and foster students. NCRF’s vision is to close the gaps in educational achievement and eliminate workforce and economic disparities, with the goal of ending racism and racial inequalities.

amazon INVESTS MILLIONS IN FUND TO BENEFIT ENTREPRENEURS

Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) has announced Amazon Catalytic Capital, a new initiative to invest $150 million in venture capital (VC) funds, accelerators, incubators, and venture studios that provide funding to entrepreneurs from underrepresented backgrounds, primarily at the pre-seed/ seed stage of venture capital funding. The company will invest in funds that focus on Black, Latino, Indigenous, women, and LGBTQIA+ founders. Amazon expects to support more than 10 funds and over 200 companies through the next year. “We’ve seen incredibly innovative ideas from underrepresented entrepreneurs— from companies offering inclusive health services for women, to startups helping companies mitigate climate impact for underserved communities—and we’re convinced that an inclusive investment strategy leads to better returns and innovation. We want to ensure that these companies and their founders have the same access to capital as anyone else,” said Peter Krawiec, Amazon’s Senior Vice President of Worldwide Corporate Development “We hope that our investment will be catalytic—sparking a force-multiplying effect by inspiring others to invest in these companies, fostering inclusion and innovation, positively impacting communities, and creating generational wealth and financial return.” In addition to capital, the companies in the funds’ portfolios will receive mentorship from Amazon executives and gain access to resources to support their business and technical strategy. Amazon teams will also work with the startups to identify partnership and product collaboration opportunities that could accelerate their growth.

Historically, underrepresented founders have had less access to startup venture capital and greater difficulties in securing funding to bring ideas to fruition. Studies consistently show that Black, Latino, women, and LGBTQIA+ startup founders are underrepresented across the total number of funded startups. According to PitchBook, women founders received 2% of U.S. venture capital funding in 2021. Similarly, Black-founded and Latino-founded startups attracted only 1% and 2% of U.S. venture capital funding respectively last year as reported

by Crunchbase News. Research shows that these inequities create a negative ripple effect for underrepresented entrepreneurs, including reduced access to networks, mentors, and sponsors.

Despite these challenges, diverse and inclusive teams are 75% more likely to see ideas become products and 70% more likely to serve new categories. Through this initiative, Amazon has invested in the following funds:

Collide Capital

and venture foundry focused on human performance. Share focuses on solving problems by creating and investing in innovative companies that unlock human potential, in categories including health tech, future of work, people tech, fintech, transportation, and purpose tech (companies facilitating impact and change).

getting excited about our vision was critical to our journey. We are better with them as partners, and I am excited to see how Amazon is supporting them to help even more entrepreneurs like me.”

Collide Capital is a

Techstars Rising Stars Fund — With its first investments in 2022, the Rising Stars Fund is a pre-seed venture capital

“Our collaboration with the team at Amazon was born out of our shared passion for innovation in key areas that improve the human experience at scale. We are aligned with Amazon’s customer obsession and grateful to be learning and collaborating with them to build a portfolio of game changing companies,” said Hamet Watt, managing partner at Share Ventures.

Black-owned seed and pre-seed venture capital fund led by two founders under the age of 35: Aaron Samuels, who cofounded AfroTech, and Brian Hollins, who is a founding Board Member of BLCK VC.

To date, Collide Capital has backed over 40 companies, of which 80%+ are led by Black, Latino, and/or female founders.

Elevate Future Fund — Elevate Future Fund, which is overseen by Energy Impact Partners (EIP), focuses on increasing funding to underrepresented founders working on solutions to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and clean energy future. It will also make investments in companies that are led by underrepresented entrepreneurs, are empowering diverse talent, and/or are creating economic opportunity for distressed or disadvantaged communities. Elevate will also collaborate closely with Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund, which invests in emerging climate technology companies.

Share Ventures — Share Ventures is a Los Angeles-based venture fund

fund investing in underrepresented founders of color in the U.S. The fund is part of the Techstars investment business that provides access to capital, one-on-one mentorship, and customized programming for early-stage entrepreneurs.

Investors from the VC funds supported by Amazon have supported hundreds of underrepresented startup founders. With Amazon’s investments, these VC funds expect to back hundreds more companies and, in turn, help create more jobs and unlock economic growth in historically underserved communities.

“We are focused on addressing financial inclusion across the globe, and Collide Capital has been an investor in us from the early days. Collide has helped us to shape our vision and opened up access to future rounds of funding,” said the Founder and CEO of fintech startup EMTECH, Carmelle Cadet “EMTECH discovered a unique value proposition in rebuilding central banking infrastructure for the Web3 era. As a Black womanfounded tech company, having Collide

Amazon Catalytic Capital is the latest in a series of Amazon-sponsored initiatives to boost and support early stage, underrepresented entrepreneurs. Amazon Web Services recently launched the AWS Impact Accelerator, investing $30 million in a series of programs designed to help high-potential, pre-seed startups led by underrepresented founders succeed. Amazon chose North American startups to be part of its 2022 Black Founders Build with Alexa cohort, each receiving a $100,000 Alexa Fund investment, as well as technology support. Additionally, in 2021, Amazon committed $150 million to its Black Business Accelerator, an initiative to help Black business owners succeed as sellers in Amazon’s stores. Learn more about Amazon Catalytic Capital at amazoncatalyticcapital.com

About Amazon Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Amazon strives to be Earth’s Most Customer-Centric Company, Earth’s Best Employer, and Earth’s Safest Place to Work. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Career Choice, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, Alexa, Just Walk Out technology, Amazon Studios, and The Climate Pledge are some of the things pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews

HBCU RECEIVES GRANT TO STUDY SOCIAL MEDIA AND WOMEN’S HEALTH

Kalynda C. Smith, Ph.D., of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s John R. and Kathy R. Hairston College of Health and Human Sciences, has received a four-year $545,686 grant to study the impact social media has on the health of Black women.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH)/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) awarded the grant, “How Health and Weight Management Social Media Messages Targeting African American Women Impact Health Behaviors,” to Smith, an assistant professor in the Hairston College’s Department of Psychology Smith’s study seeks to determine how social

media use that emphasizes physical appearance affects the diet and fitness habits of Generation Z Black/African American women.

“These women have been exposed to social media messages the majority of their lives, compared with older groups, but there is little research that examines how these messages influence their self-presentation, selfesteem and health habits,” said Smith “This study will address how social media can be used as a preventative measure to address chronic conditions, like diabetes, that disproportionately affect the Black/African American community in the United States."

Smith’s work will engage up to four

Black/African American psychology undergraduates and two students in the M.S. in health psychology program in extensive mixed methods research training, preparing them for a variety of psychology career pathways.

The grant award was made through the Support for Research Excellence (SuRE) mechanism, which supports research capacity building at U.S. higher education institutions that receive limited NIH research support and serve students from groups underrepresented in biomedical research with an emphasis on providing students with research opportunities and enriching the research environment at the applicant institutions.

STATE UNIVersity AWARDED $ 1 MILLION TO INCREASE STEM ENROLLMENT

Fort Valley State University has been awarded $1,399,964 from the National Science Foundation Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program to increase the number of low-income, academically talented students who earn degrees in STEM fields. The grant will also help with recruitment, retention and graduation in the Math program at FVSU

Overall, the Driving Math competence through STEM modeling (D’MCS) project will assist in preparing students to become outstanding STEM professionals and researchers who are able to solve real-world problems with mathematics. The project findings will help to improve the retention rate of low-income, academically talented students in STEM.

“With this grant, FVSU will increase the STEM degree completion of high-achieving undergraduates who may not have an opportunity to pursue or achieve a STEM degree,” said Olufunke Fontenot, Ed.D. “Dr. Grant took the lead to secure this grant during a critical time for the Math program. She exemplifies the best in FVSU faculty and staff.”

The project also aims to improve the education of future STEM workers and to generate knowledge about academic success, retention, transfer, graduation, and academic/ career pathways of low-income students.

Shanah K. Grant, Ph.D., alumna and FVSU Department of

Mathematics and Computer Science faculty, served as the PI for the grant and developed the D’MCS project.

“With this grant, FVSU will be able to make a huge impact on our future generation of STEM leaders,” said Shanah K. Grant, Ph.D., assistant professor of mathematics. “The D’MCS grant will open doors for talented students who may not have thought it was possible to go to college.”

Co-principal investigators include professors Dwyane Daniels, Ph.D.,

According to Diverse Issues in Higher Education, FVSU is a top 20 producer of African Americans with bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and statistics. While FVSU has been a leading institution for graduating Black students with undergraduate mathematics degrees, the number of graduates has been small, while the need for more highly qualified Black workers in STEM fields is

great.

FVSU aims to contribute to the national need for well-educated scientists, mathematicians, engineers and technicians. Students can now apply for the D’MCS scholarship. For a complete list of requirements and to apply, click here: https://fvsu.presence.io/ form/dmcs-scholarship-application The deadline to apply for Spring 2023 enrollment is November 15, 2022, and the deadline to apply for Fall 2023 is February 15, 2023.

to the

Photographs and

will not be

Jianmin Zhu, Ph.D., Patcharin Marion, Ph.D., and Provost Olufunke Fontenot, Ed.D.

Image Source: blackprwire.com

IKEA U.S. COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SUPPORTS LI BLACK BUSINESSES

The IKEA U.S. Community Foundation is donating $25,000 to the African American Small Business Foundation The funds will support the foundation and local Black-owned businesses and organizations that work to support social justice, economic empowerment, and education initiatives in Black communities. In 2020, The IKEA U.S. Community Foundation created the IKEA Black Business Initiative to aid local Black-owned businesses and organizations with a donation of more than $900,000 in funding and product. The initiative is part of a $3 million national commitment by The IKEA U.S. Community Foundation to support Black equality across the country.

“The IKEA U.S. Community Foundation’s Black Business Initiative is focused on making a tangible impact to support racial equality and inclusion in our workplace and society. Through local relationships, our ambition is to build a connection with neighboring businesses, entrepreneurs and organizations that support economic

empowerment and equity for the Black community,” said Amy Jensen, IKEA Long Island Market Manager

“Together with our social justice partners, co-workers, customer, and communities, we can work to make meaningful and measurable change.”

While these specific Black Business Initiative grants are provided by The IKEA U.S. Community Foundation, local IKEA stores and units in the respective markets will also separately collaborate with grant recipients and local organizations to follow the impact

“

of these funds and build relationships with these deserving organizations. In June 2020, The IKEA U.S. Community Foundation committed a total of $3 million to support organizations that were negatively and disproportionately impacted by civil unrest and challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. IKEA US RETAIL LLC also committed to improving and accelerating internal efforts supporting the upward mobility of underrepresented co-workers across ethnicity, race and national origin, from both hourly and salaried roles, to ensure that diversity is reflected at all levels of the organization.

IKEA’s grant to small business owners on Long Island will provide muchneeded capital to small businesses affected by the COVID-19 crisis. IKEA’s commitment to advancing racial equity via providing small business owners resources is very much appreciated by our community and foundation,” said Phil Andrews, Founding President, African American Small Business Foundation

BLACK BAR ASSOCIATION INSTALLATION HELD

WHO

Metropolitan Black Bar Association

The Metropolitan Black Bar Association, a unified citywide association of Black and other minority lawyers, is New York State’s largest predominantly Black bar association whose purpose is to advance equality and excellence in the pursuit of justice, aid the progress of Blacks and other people of color in the profession, address legal issues affecting the citywide community, and to foster the study of law by encouraging the personal and professional development of young lawyers and law students.

WHAT

The respected and widely recognized Metropolitan Black Bar Association will host the 2022-23 Installation of the Officers and Directors, including:

OFFICERS

President

Carl Forbes Jr., Esq. President-Elect

Nicole Lester Arrindell, Esq.

VIce President, Communications

Justina K. Rivera, Esq. Vice President, Finance

Eric A. Love, Esq.

Vice President, Membership

Lauren Brown, Esq.

Vice President, Programs

Evette C. Ennis, Esq.

and wellbeing insights, Alight brings people the security of better outcomes and peace of mind throughout life’s big moments and most important decisions. Learn how Alight unlocks growth for organizations of all sizes at alight.com

About Fidelity Investments:

Fidelity’s mission is to inspire better futures and deliver better outcomes for

Treasurer

Anta Cissé-Green, Esq. General Counsel

Jennifer V. Abelaj, Esq.

DIRECTORS

Hon. Inga O’Neale (Class of 2023) Mirlande Telfort, Esq. (Class of 2023) Camille Joseph Varlack, Esq. (Class of 2024)

Bisha Nurse, Esq. (Class of 2024) Lola Waterman, Esq. (Class of 2024) Monsurat M. Adebanjo, Esq. (Class of 2025)

Tanya N. Blocker, Esq. (Class of 2025) Esther B. Cajuste, Esq. (Class of 2025) Hon. Claudia Daniels-DePeyster (Class of 2025)

Jomaire Crawford, Esq. (Class of 2025) Luwick Francois, Esq. (Class of 2025) Phillip C. Hamilton, Esq. (Class of 2025)

Kersuze Morancy, Esq. Jenesha Tai, Esq. Jennifer L. Taiwo, Esq. (Class of 2025)

The installation and reception to follow will announce the organization leaders for the 2022-23 season. President Carl Forbes Jr. will also share his key goals and remarks during the reception; Carl’s 2022-23 theme: “Expanding

Our REACH” is focused on enhancing the Resources and Education the MBBA provides to its members, broadening its legislative and public policy Advocacy,

deepening its service to the Community, and protecting the mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical Health of its

the customers and businesses we serve. With assets under administration of $9.9 trillion, including discretionary assets of $3.7 trillion as of June 30, 2022, we focus on meeting the unique needs of a diverse set of customers. Privately held for over 75 years, Fidelity employs more than 58,000 associates who are focused on the longterm success of our customers. For more

information about Fidelity Investments, visit https://www.fidelity.com/about-fidelity/ our-company

Founded in 1975, Vanguard is one of the world's leading investment management companies. The firm offers investments, advice, and retirement services to individual investors, institutions, and financial professionals. Vanguard operates under

members.  WHEN Monday, October 10, 2022

a unique, investor-owned structure where Vanguard fund shareholders own the funds, which in turn own Vanguard. As such, Vanguard adheres to a simple purpose: To take a stand for all investors, to treat them fairly, and to give them the best chance for investment success. For more information, visit vanguard.com

METROPOLITAN BLACK BAR ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT CARL FORBES, JR.

INTERVIEW

GALE GRAIN MONK FOUNDER : THELONIUS MONK INSTITUTE

BY: ANN BROWN

Gale Grain Monk graduated from City College with a degree in Broadcast/Journalism. While in college she was an intern twice for CBS (known now as Sony).  That first summer she worked in Black Music Marketing under Bruce Lundvall and LeBaron Taylor. During her second year internship, she worked with the publishing company April/ Blackwood.

After graduating college, Monk worked for United Press International, the wire service, as a reporter.

Monk did a brief stint as a teacher, qualified to teach K through 6.

She then went on to own/manage the estate of Thelonious Monk and his prestigious catalogue

of music. She’s been doing this for more than 35 years. In addition, she manages the career of her husband, T.S. Monk, Thelonious’s son. She was also involved with the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz for 30 years.

She and her husband are the parents of two children, Sierre Monk and Thelonious Monk lV, who also work in the family business that they’ve created.  The family lives on the island of Martha’s Vineyard.

She and her husband collaborate with a beer company, North Coast Brewery, that distributes Brother Thelonious and Legit Wines. The company has also branded a Monk Cabernet. The couple is currently in talks about producing several movies on Thelonious Monk as well as a Broadway play.

Gale Grain Monk with her husband, T.S. Monk (Photo provided by Gale Grain Monk)

Gale (CENTER) with daughter Sierre Monk (L) and son (R) Thelonious IV (Photo: provided by Gale Monk)

Gale fishing (Photo: provided by Gale Monk)

FINAL BOW SET FOR ‘ A STRA N GE L O OP

There’s only 14 more weeks to see the Tony Award-winning Best Musical A STRANGE LOOP which will play its final Broadway performance on January 15, 2023. Michael R. Jackson’s A STRANGE LOOP opened April 26, to critical acclaim at the Lyceum Theatre (149 West 45th Street). The musical is directed by Tony Award nominee Stephen Brackett, choreographed by Raja Feather Kelly, and produced by Barbara Whitman, along with Page 73 Productions, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company and Playwrights Horizons

“Bringing A STRANGE LOOP to Broadway has been extraordinary. Michael R. Jackson is one of the most important voices of this generation, and we’re thrilled that so many enthusiastic audience members have been able to experience his monumental musical,” said producer Barbara Whitman, “We look forward to having more theatre lovers come see the show in its final weeks.”

“Though A STRANGE LOOP is not autobiographical, it is my life’s work. As such, I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to share this raw, vulnerable, and personal story with the world and to have connected with so many enthusiastic, loving audiences,” said creator Michael R. Jackson, “I am also indebted to the many extraordinary collaborators and institutions past and present that made the telling of this unique story possible. You each will have a piece of my heart, soul, and my loop forever.”

A STRANGE LOOP won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and was named Best Musical by the Tony Awards, New York

Drama Critics’ Circle, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, Drama League, and Off-Broadway Alliance Michael R. Jackson won the Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical for A STRANGE LOOP Jaquel Spivey was awarded the Drama Desk Award for Best Actor in a Musical, the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Actor in a Musical, and a Theatre World Award

Tickets for A STRANGE LOOP range from $49-$179 (inclusive of the $2 facility fee) and are available at Telecharge.com (212-239-6200).

regular and 13 preview performances at the Lyceum Theatre. A STRANGE LOOP features set design by Tony Award nominee Arnulfo Maldonado, costumes by Montana Levi Blanco, lighting design by Tony Award nominee Jen Schriever, sound design by Tony Award nominee Drew Levy, music direction by Rona Siddiqui, orchestrations by Grammy winner and Tony Award nominee Charlie Rosen, and casting by The Telsey Office/ Destiny Lilly Erin Gioia Albrecht is production stage manager.

a Black, queer writer…  Michael R. Jackson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning, blisteringly funny masterwork exposes the heart and soul of a young artist grappling with desires, identity, and instincts he both loves and loathes. Hell-bent on breaking free of his own self-perception, Usher wrestles with the thoughts in his head, brought to life on stage by a hilarious, straight-shooting ensemble. Bold and heartfelt in its truthtelling, A STRANGE LOOP is the big, Black, and queer-ass Great American Musical for all.

The performance schedule is as follows: Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm; Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 8pm, with matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm; and Sunday at 3pm. A STRANGE LOOP digital rush tickets are available at strangeloopmusical. com/lotteryandrush for $55 the day of the performance. This is a first-of-itskind digital rush on Broadway and will augment the existing lottery ($43) and in-person rush ($47) ticket availability. Upon closing, the Pulitzer Prize winning musical will have played 301

A STRANGE LOOP features Tony Award nominee Jaquel Spivey as Usher, Antwayn Hopper (Thought 6), James Jackson, Jr. (Thought 2), Tony Award nominee L Morgan Lee (Thought 1), John-Michael Lyles (Thought 3), Tony Award nominee John-Andrew Morrison (Thought 4), and Jason Veasey (Thought 5), with Edwin Bates, Kyle Ramar Freeman, Zachary A. Myers, Jon-Michael Reese, and Mars Rucker. Meet Usher: a Black, queer writer writing a musical about a Black, queer writer writing a musical about

A STRANGE LOOP made its world premiere at Playwrights Horizons, in May 2019, in association with Page 73 Productions. In December 2021, the show had a critically acclaimed run at Washington, D.C.’s Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company prior to coming to Broadway GHOSTLIGHT RECORDS and YELLOW SOUND LABEL released the original Broadway cast recording of A STRANGE LOOP on June 10, 2022. For more information on A STRANGE LOOP visit https://strangeloopmusical. com/

Know the when, where, and how. Then vote.

Voting is your most important right. It gives you the power to decide what our future looks like. But you have to be in the know to vote. Election laws and voting places can change. That’s why AARP New York has collected all the most up-to-date election information to make sure that the voices of voters 50-plus are heard on November 8, 2022. Make sure you know how to register to vote, where to vote in person, what the rules are for absentee or early voting, and all the key voting deadlines. Get the latest voting information for New York at aarp.org/NYvotes.

TOBACCO INDUSTRY CONTINUES to TARGET BLACK COMMUNITIES WITH MENTHOL PRODUCTS

The massive growth in popularity of menthol cigarettes over several decades is the result of the tobacco industry’s intense and persistent targeting of Black communities, women and youth – a campaign the industry continues today with new products and marketing campaigns. These are the findings of a new research study by Stanford Research into the Impact of Tobacco Advertising (SRITA), a research unit of Stanford Medicine, and the American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health.

The report comes as the Food & Drug Administration weighs public comments on draft rules to remove menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars from the market, and as a growing number of states and localities act to stop the sale of menthol cigarettes and other flavored tobacco products. Massachusetts and 160 localities nationwide currently restrict the sale of menthol cigarettes, in addition to other flavored tobacco products. In November, California voters will consider a ballot measure to prohibit flavored tobacco products including menthol.

“This study is a compelling addition to the overwhelming evidence showing that tobacco companies directly target populations including Black communities, women and youth with menthol cigarettes, which make it easier to get hooked and are much tougher to quit than other tobacco products,” said Rose Marie Robertson, M.D., FAHA, Deputy Chief of Science and Medical Officer of the American Heart Association and co-director of the Association’s National Institutes of Health/Food and Drug Administration funded Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science “Nearly a century of disgraceful behavior by the tobacco companies has made clear that menthol and other flavored tobacco products threaten public health and perpetuate inequities – they should no longer be sold.”

Menthol cigarettes are used by 85% of Black people who smoke and 44% of women who smoke, compared to 30% of nonHispanic white people who smoke. More than half of teens who begin smoking start with a menthol brand. Numerous studies have shown that the cooling sensation of menthol cigarettes makes them easier to inhale deeply, which leads to a higher dose of nicotine and a stronger addiction as compared to other cigarettes.

The study finds that disproportionately high use of menthol cigarettes by Black people, women and youth, as well as others including Hispanic people (48% of Hispanic people who smoke use menthol brands), is not the result of organically evolving consumer preferences over time. Rather, it is the result of decades of high-dollar marketing campaigns explicitly targeting these populations.

The industry’s efforts continue today in a market dominated by categorical menthol brands such as Newport, Kool and Salem, which are joined by menthol extensions of major cigarette brands including Marlboro, Camel and Pall Mall. One measure of the tobacco industry’s strong emphasis on menthol is the number of menthol variants sold in the marketplace. For example, Marlboro cigarettes are sold in 11 menthol variants, including Black Menthol, Smooth Ice and Bold Ice; Camel sells 12 types of menthol cigarettes, including Crush Smooth

and Crush Rich; and market leader Newport offers seven menthol variants, including Smooth, Boost and Boost Gold

Tobacco companies’ recent tactics: flavor bursts, additives and greenwashing The study finds that tobacco companies have evolved their products with capsule cigarettes, which contain a sphere of flavored liquid in the filter that when squeezed produces a burst of intense flavor. Known as “crushers,” “clickers,” “kickers,” “infusers” and “squeezers,” capsules serve as a flavor booster in menthol cigarettes and are sold on the U.S. market by Camel, Marlboro, Lucky Strike, Newport and Pall Mall

Capsules and other innovations including infusion cards, infused paper, flavor caps and flavor stones also serve as on-demand

The study is the result of exhaustive research of tobacco industry marketing and internal corporate correspondence since the 1930s, including company advertisements targeting specific consumer segments by skin color, gender and age over the course of decades. The study also includes excerpts from numerous internal company documents reflecting the industry’s sophisticated marketing approaches in areas including:   Building a menthol market in Black communities – The report examines tobacco industry efforts to sell more menthol products within Black communities by deluging urban centers with menthol cigarette advertisements on billboards, buses and subways, distributing free “starter packs” and discount coupons, and featuring prominent Black athletes and entertainers

Smokers) and “FUBYAS” (First Usual Brand Younger Adult Smokers), referring to the targets of their youth-oriented advertising campaigns.

Lorillard’s 1984 promotion plan for Newport noted that: “Newport's franchise represents the youngest demographic profile in the industry. This profile is enviable in terms of it being an ‘in’ brand, as well as insuring future viability as long as these smokers stay within the Newport franchise.” The patently youth-targeted “Alive with Pleasure” campaign established Newport as a dominant youth starter brand, the bestselling menthol brand, and the second bestselling cigarette in the U.S. after Marlboro Internal Newport documents reflect that a primary market for Newport cigarettes was young African Americans. Newport’s 1992 brand plan revealed that the products was targeted “primarily to young ethnic adult smokers ages 18-24,” and that “the ethnic market could be a major source of new business for the brand that we plan to exploit it.”

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Financing music festivals – From the Newport Jazz Festival that began in the 1950s, to the Salem Spirit Concert Series in the 1980s, to tobacco-sponsored concert series today including Kool MIXX, Marlboro’s Vinyl Vibes and Salem’s Stir the Senses, tobacco companies continue to recruit new users across populations through music events. The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act prohibited music and art event sponsorships by cigarette and oral tobacco brands, but not by cigars or emerging nicotine products such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco.

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menthol additives in unflavored cigarettes. These post-market additives enable sellers to circumvent restrictions on menthol tobacco sales. Tobacco companies also attempt to sidestep sales restrictions by offering numerous menthol and mint varieties in categories including e-cigarettes, cigarillos, chewing tobacco, snus and hookah that are currently regulated differently than traditional cigarettes.

Another new industry marketing tactic is the depiction of menthol products as “organic,” “additive free” or “plant based.” This trend, which the study calls the “greenwashing” of menthol cigarettes, continues years of tobacco industry efforts to hide the health hazards of tobacco use to the public. A federal court in 2006 found that several major tobacco companies had violated civil racketeering laws following decades of lying to the public about the health threats of smoking.

“Our report shows that since at least the 1930s, tobacco companies have systematically preyed on targeted populations with menthol cigarette promotions intended to get more people to start smoking a product that the companies know is both harmful to health and exceedingly difficult to quit,” said Robert K. Jackler, MD, principal investigator, Stanford Research into the Impact of Tobacco Advertising and Edward & Amy Sewall Professors, Stanford University School of Medicine “By continuously rolling out new marketing campaigns and innovating their products to avoid oversight, the tobacco industry is intent on recruiting new tobacco users and continuing to threaten public health.”

A long history of industry targeting

in menthol advertisements in leading Black newspapers and magazines.

For example, industry documents show that Newport employees handing out samples in predominantly Black communities from a Newport van were instructed to “assertively ask people to accept samples of Newports” as part of an overall effort to “provide aggressive promotional and advertising support for the brand.” A 1981 RJ Reynolds corporate document stated that “the Black segment has been identified as the Brand’s Special Market priority” for its Salem brand.

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Seizing on menthol’s popularity among women – The report states that when tobacco companies discovered that women were early adopters of menthol brands, they responded in kind with marketing campaigns such as Kool’s “Lady, Be Cool” and Salem’s “For More of a Woman,” and with brands targeting women such as Virginia Slims (“You’ve come a long way baby”), Eve and Capri

The Eve brand, launched in 1971 by Liggett & Myers, intentionally chose both a “feminine package design” and a “truly female name,” according to industry documents. Philip Morris Executive Larry Williams indicated that the name Virginia Slims, launched in 1968, was chosen because “most women like to think of themselves as slim.”

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Targeting youth – Internal company documents reveal a consistent focus on attracting youth smokers since the 1920s. An internal RJ Reynolds document from September 1927 states “School days are here. And that means BIG TOBACCO BUSINESS for somebody. Let’s get it. And start after it RIGHT NOW.” In other internal correspondence, companies adopted acronyms such as “YAS” (Young Adult

Obfuscating the harms of smoking – For much of the last century, tobacco companies attempted to reassure a public increasingly worried about the health consequences of smoking through marketing campaigns with claims such as “More Doctors Smoke Camels,” and “Got a cold? Smoke a Kool.” Today, menthol tobacco advertising continues to include health reassurance messaging with the use of proxy terms such as “natural” and “organic” tobacco.

“Exposing the ways tobacco companies target people in disadvantaged communities with products that threaten their health is core to the American Heart Association’s commitment to battling systemic racism,” said Michelle A. Albert, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA, volunteer President of the American Heart Association, immediate past President of the Association of Black Cardiologists and Walter A. Haas-Lucie Stern endowed chair in Cardiology, Professor of Medicine at the University of California at San Francisco “To promote public health and achieve health equity, we must enact proven public policies that prevent the industry from engaging in practices that have contributed to the loss of millions of lives from tobacco use.”

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

Photo Credit: Andres Siimon via unsplash

MEDWEEK LEGACY AWARDS TO RECOGNIZE MINoRiTY FIRMS

The premier event for small, minority, women and veteran-owned businesses in Florida is just around the corner! M. Gill & Associates and its MBDA Programs will present Florida's 40th Annual MEDWeek  Business Matchmaker Conference & Legacy Award Gala from Friday, October 21 to Saturday, October 22. The conference takes place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Airport Hotel & Convention Center in Miami, Florida.

Florida's MEDWeek conference has connected hundreds of minority-owned businesses with financing and contracts throughout the decades, and the 40th will be no different. True to this year’s conference theme, MEDWeek Coordinator, Marie Gill said that conference organizers are committed to helping small, minority, women and veteran-owned businesses “continue a legacy of resilience, innovation and growth." She said that many business opportunities are lost for not having access to the resources and the connections provided at MEDWeek Businesses are encouraged to register NOW – AT NO COST -  to take advantage of this unique opportunity to hone their management and branding skills and gain greater access to business financing, contracts, and export leads. This year's MEDWeek program will focus on matching federal and local government and corporations with small, minority and women businesses to engage in contracting opportunities made possible under the new INFRASTRUCTURE LAW.

Business owners thinking of expanding their markets overseas will have the

chance to connect with  International Delegates from Guatemala, Belize, Chile, Mexico, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Martinique, Barbados, Guyana, Kenya and Nigeria. Tentative European country representatives are also expected from Italy, UK, and France.

The MEDWeek Legacy Awards Gala, to be held on Saturday evening, October 22nd, will take a trip down memory lane and will recognize and honor forty of Florida's most successful MBEs, Advocates, and Strategic Partners who

EV Charging Stations, Broadband & Other Infrastructure-Related Opportunities.

 International Trade & Export Roundtable | Connecting U.S. MBEs With International Delegates to Engage in International Projects.

 Financial Investment Forum | Financial Institutions and Specialty Financing Programs from the State of Florida, U.S. Small Business Administration, Black Business Investment Fund, and others will outreach and present new business financing opportunities.

MEDWeek Power Lunch sponsored by M. Gill*Her Foundation B2B & B2G Matchmaker Expo & Trade Fair | Networking with Government & Prime Contractors |  FREE Raffles and Give-Aways.

On-Site Services:  MBE Certification Assistance | Loan & Grant Application Assistance | Capability Statement Review Services | SAM Registration Application & Review Services.

 ABOUT M. GILL & ASSOCIATES

have connected with, and benefited from the MBDA Programs operated by M. Gill & Associates over the years.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MEDWEEK PROGRAM:

Friday, October 21, 2022 - ALL-DAY MEDWeek events 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

 Infrastructure Opportunities Roundtable | USDOT, FDOT, FAA, MBDA, & Major Corporations meet with various City Government Officials from across Florida to Discuss Electronic Vehicles (EV),

Saturday, October 22, 2022 - 40th Annual MEDWeek Legacy Awards Gala 7:00 – 8:00 PM - International Networking Reception. 8:00 – 11:00 PM - Awards Presentations, Dancing, Music, and Live Entertainment. An Expose' of Business Success & Elegance!

To register for the Florida's 40th Annual MEDWeek Business Matchmaker Conference & Legacy Awards Gala, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ florida-40th-annual-medweek-businessmatch-maker-conference-awards-galatickets-362215344847

Gill & Associates, Inc. is a management and economic development consulting firm that was founded by Jamaican entrepreneur, Marie R. Gill, 32 years ago. Based in Miami and serving Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the company has become a global brand, with partnerships throughout North America, the Caribbean, Latin America, and various African countries. A 22-year veteran of Federal Contracting and Minority Business Development, M. Gill operates the Florida MBDA Export Center, the Miami MBDA Business Center, and a newly awarded MBDA INFRASTRUCTURE CENTER. In return for operating the City of Miami's Small Business Center, the City of Miami is a cost-share strategic partner, providing office space and marketing support for the MBDA Programs. The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce provides funding for these programs. All of its MBDA-funded programs offer technical assistance, managerial coaching, capacity building, entrepreneurship training, and export development services, free of cost to assist small and minority businesses to scale, increase revenues and investments, create and retain jobs, and expand into new and global markets.

For more information on M. Gill & Associates, its MBDA Programs and Florida's 40th Annual MEDWeek Business Matchmaker Conference & Legacy Awards Gala, please call 305-5767888 or 786-515-0670; email admin@ miamimbdacenter.com or visit www. medweekflorida.org  or www.mbdaexport. com or www.mgillonline.com

BLACKS IN TECH HOSTS BITCOIN 2022 CONFERENCE

Blacks In Technology, LLC and the Blacks In Technology Foundation (BIT) hosts (BITCon2022) their 4th annual conference for Black IT professionals, entrepreneurs, gamers, and afrofuturists. Hundreds will descend on Disney World October 26-28, 2022. The in-person conference will feature global brands, world class speakers and business leaders. Sponsors include Google, Disney, Northwestern Mutual, Bridgewater Consulting, Ally Bank, Block, TIAA, CapTech Ventures, Red Ventures, Intuit, ADP, Spotify, and many more.

The 50 plus speaker lineup will be led by writer, activist, comedian, and techie, Baratunde Thurston, author of the New York Times bestseller How To Be Black and host of television series Lenovo Late Night I.T. and PBS’s America Outdoors

WHAT IS BITCON 2022’S THEME?

“This year we will emphasize three pillars: meaningful networking, career advancement, and actionable learning. The balance we want to strike is 40% block party 60% tech conference,” according to Dennis Schultz, Executive Director of the Blacks In Technology Foundation “I want every attendee to walk away with knowledge they can immediately apply… and have fun in the process.”

Greg Greenlee, Founder of Blacks In Technology says, “After 2 years of not having in person events, I am extremely excited that this year’s BITCON will be a hybrid conference. There is no replacement for the in-person engagement experience and BITCON has always been the perfect safe space for our community to interact.”

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT AT BITCON 2022?

This year BIT anticipates over 1,000 attendees. Onsite, there will be dozens

of workshops, training sessions, technology demos, leadership conversations, and technical talks for beginners and experts alike. Topics and tracks include Web 3, cryptocurrency, NFTs, metaverse, AI & ML, gaming & e-sports, cloud/DevOps, cybersecurity, data science, social responsibility, government policy, career development, entrepreneurship, and professional storytelling. Additionally, attendees can participate in one of the largest in person career

fairs for diverse tech talent, join a gaming tournament with a $5,000 grand prize, or enter a startup pitch competition with a $10,000 in nondilutive funding.

WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING ABOUT BITCON 2022?

Author, entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and BITCON 2022 speaker Arlan Hamilton adds, “Conferences like BITCON are important for those marginalized and underestimated in tech. If we aren’t invited to have a seat at the table, we need to build our own tables.”

Multiple BITCON attendee and Agile Coach, Alex Bernardin, adds, “I support BITCON and the BIT community because it’s the support network that I didn’t have when I was coming up.”

Blacks In Technology (BIT) is the largest community of people of African descent in the technology industry. Through community-focused activities, events and outreach, The Blacks In Technology Foundation is “Stomping the Divide” by establishing a blueprint of world-class technical excellence and innovation by providing resources, guidance, networking, and opportunities for members to share their expertise and advance their careers.

MUSIC EXEC , ENTREPRENEUR AND HUMANITARIAN DONATES TO COLLEGE GAME

Founder and CEO of Right Hand Co, Right Hand Foundation, and The Network ATL, Courtney Stewart, is making dreams come true at his alma mater Alabama State University

Stewart, who’s best known for discovering and developing multi-platinum selling, award-winning, global superstar Khalid, is donating $100,000 to create scholarships for communication students and multiple enhancements to ASU’s communication department. The presentation will occur during the Homecoming game between ASU and Jackson State University on Saturday, Oct. 8. “It’s so important to give back, and it’s a blessing and an honor to be able to do that and help support the growth of HBCUs and prepare the current students with resources and an education to thrive after college,” explained Stewart Stewart pointed out that the majority of the funds are earmarked for the communications department for scholarships and other departmental and student needs. “I’m passionate about supporting the communications department,” added Stewart “Not only did it teach me the curriculum of my major, but it also was the catalyst to lead me on my path in the entertainment industry. Believe it or not, what I learned still impacts my business daily.”

The music executive, real estate developer, tech investor and humanitarian who graduated from ASU in 2003 with a B.A. in communications, said from his childhood growing up in Atlanta to his college days at ASU, he always loved music, film/

television, and the arts. “What I didn’t know during my time at ASU, I was becoming an entrepreneur,” shared Stewart “Whether I was throwing parties or selling CDs on campus, everything was feeding my soul’s purpose and my entrepreneurial spirit even back then. It all came together and put a spotlight on my true talent all sparked by my love of the arts, communication, and music.”

Audrey Parks, Director of Development, Office of Institutional Advancement, said Alabama State University appreciates Stewart’s support for ASU students and his alma mater. “We are very proud of the wonderful example he is to our community and young people. He is the kind of individual we hope to nurture at Alabama State University,” said Parks

Stewart said he is committed to the advancement of HBCUs and pledged to continue to create avenues of opportunity for ASU scholars. “This isn’t the end of my support for Alabama State. This is just the beginning. I’m so grateful that I attended ASU. It was one of the best experiences of my life. I made lifelong friends, and I was groomed to become the man I am today,” Stewart concluded. “I learned valuable lessons inside and outside of the classroom which to this day still influence me as the leader, mentor and businessman I am today.”

More about Stewart 

Courtney Stewart leverages a 360-degree approach to all aspects of his business and philanthropy. By sharing a similar spirit and vision to the clients, projects, and causes he

supports, the music executive, tech investor, real estate developer, and humanitarian maximizes opportunity for success from all angles. This ability to align and collaborate closely with artists cemented Stewart among the industry’s leaders recognized on Billboard’s prestigious “40 Under 40,” Variety’s 2018 and 2019 “Hitmakers” list, Billboard’s 2020 “Power List,” and ASUs 50 under 50 class.

Stewart has also built an impressive career beyond the music industry. As an Atlanta native, he has invested in real estate throughout Atlanta to support revitalization. His development projects include dozens of multi-family homes, as well as The Network ATL, a premiere event space in the city.

Additionally, he founded Right Hand Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that provides single mothers and children with free housing, educational programs, and resources that support long-term success and independent sustainability. His charitable outreach in Atlanta has been longstanding and has provided a wide

range of support impacting hundreds of families across the metro area.

As an entrepreneur, Stewart believes in the power of new ideas. In 2021, he partnered with startup accelerator Techstars Music. Along with its member companies, Techstars Music commits capital for underrepresented tech founders and is committed to 50% of program CEOs being diverse with a particular focus on Black, LGBTQ, and female founders. As a Techstars Music partner, Stewart helps foster innovation and advance ideas that promote positive social and economic change for communities around the world.

Courtney Stewart is a music industry, business, and community leader with a passion for connecting culture and community to drive success. “Success comes from sharing a common vision and goal,” he explains. “When I align with a client or a charity, we’ve got to be in sync and share the same passion and drive. When those two things come together, greatness is inevitable.”

Image Source: blackprwire.com

WARNER MUSIC ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE APPOINTMENT

The Warner Music/Blavatnik Center for Music Business at Howard University recently announced Howard alumnus Tarik Brooks (B.A., '97), President of Combs Enterprises, as its inaugural Executive in Residence for the Fall 2022 semester. In this position, Brooks will serve as a mentor to the center’s 20 fellows as he hopes to empower the next generation of cultural leaders. Combs Enterprises, a portfolio of game-changing companies founded by Sean “Diddy'' Combs, is committed to inspiring greatness, celebrating excellence, and building a lasting impact.

“I’m honored to work with the Warner Music/Blavatnik Center to prepare Howard students for careers in music and entertainment,” said Brooks. “My goal is to accelerate the trajectory of the fellows in the program, the same way Howard and my mentors have done for me.”

Every semester, a different music business executive will serve as the center’s executive in residence. Brooks will be on campus at the Howard University School of Business, at least once a month, to speak to students interested in working in the music industry. For students admitted to the center’s fellowship program, Brooks will provide personal mentorship and assist in securing post-graduation employment.

“It is such a blessing to have Mr. Brooks join us this semester to mentor the next generation of music business professionals. It’s so important to give our students the opportunity to learn directly from industry experts, especially Howard alum.

Tarik’s years of experience and wealth of knowledge in the industry will surely be a huge inspiration to our students,”

said Jasmine Young, Director of the Warner Music/Blavatnik Center for Music Business

Brooks is a seasoned executive with more than 22 years of experience driving large scale business transformations across several industries including hospitality, spirits, and media. As the President of Combs Enterprises, Brooks oversees all

Prior to Combs Enterprises, Brooks was the Chief Operating Officer of the Account Management and Trading department at Bridgewater Associates, a global investment management firm with approximately $160 billion under management. He also previously served as the Executive Vice President at RLJ Companies, a portfolio of companies

engineer for Jay-Z and Director of the Music Technology, Entrepreneurship & Production program at the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment, Julian Petty, Executive Vice President of Warner Records, members of the Blavatnik Family and Blavatnik Family Foundation Social Justice Fund board members.

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private, research university that comprises 13 schools and colleges. Students pursue more than 140 programs of study leading to undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University operates with a commitment to Excellence in Truth and Service and has produced one Schwarzman Scholar, three Marshall Scholars, four Rhodes Scholars, 12 Truman Scholars, 25 Pickering Fellows and more than 165 Fulbright recipients. Howard also produces more on-campus African American Ph.D. recipients than any other university in the United States. For more information on Howard University, visit www.howard.edu

business operations and investments owned by Sean “Diddy” Combs. This diverse portfolio includes CirocVodka, DeLeon Tequila, REVOLT TV, Bad Boy Records, Love Records, Sean John, AquaHydrate, Capital Preparatory Schools and more. Brooks oversees Sean Combs’ investment strategy and leads all new business development. Combs invests in companies whose missions align with that of Combs Enterprises, including Thirteen Lune and REC Philly Brooks also led the launch of Our Fair Share, a platform that helped minority owned businesses access capital through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

led by legendary investor Robert L. Johnson, where he led the development of several businesses including gaming/ nightlife ventures in the Caribbean and the completion of RLJ Kendeja, a resort hotel in Monrovia, Liberia.

He is a graduate of Howard University and Harvard Business School.

On October 20, 2022, at 11 a.m. the center will host a VIP reception at the Blackburn Center Ballroom. The reception will celebrate the icons and legends in the music industry who have graduated from Howard Brooks will be in attendance and will be honored at the reception among others. Also in attendance will be Young Guru, chief

Combs Enterprises is the portfolio of businesses and investments built and cultivated by music legend and entrepreneur Sean Love Combs Aka Diddy. Established in 2013, Combs Enterprises includes the brands Bad Boy Entertainment, Sean John, Combs Wine & Spirits (Cîroc Vodka and DeLeon Tequila), AQUAhydrate, Janice Combs Publishing, REVOLT Films and REVOLT MEDIA & TV, Shop Circulate, Our Fare Share, Capital Preparatory Charter Schools and the Sean Combs Foundation

Combs Enterprises is known worldwide for its award-winning, market-defining successes in music, fashion, fragrance, spirits, marketing, film, television, media and more.

Image Source: thedig.howard.edu

OCTOBER IS Breast CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While breast cancer affects women of all ethnicities, unfortunately it is now more fatal for black women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women with a breast cancer diagnosis have a 40% higher mortality rate than white women. According to blackdoctors.org, the breast cancer death rate gap is significant because black women are more likely to be uninsured. Also, Black women tend to be diagnosed at a later stage, making them less likely to receive timely treatments such as surgery, radiation or hormone therapy.

Luckily, there are countless organizations working tirelessly to improve the health outcomes for Black women through advocacy, education,

research and empowerment. During the month of October, BPRW salutes all the organizations across the nation working relentlessly to decrease the impact of breast cancer on women of color. The team at Black PR Wire compiled a list of some of these great organizations:

(AABCA). This organization educates and supports African Americans in their breast cancer journey and survivorship. https://aabcainc.org/

 SISTERS NETWORK INC. Sister's Network Inc. is committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has on the African American community. https://www. sistersnetworkinc.org/

 SISTERS BY CHOICE. This organization supports men and women diagnosed with breast cancer by providing innovative educational programs and breast health advocacy groups to help eradicate the disease. https://sistersbychoice.org/



AFRICAN AMERICAN BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE, INC.

POETIC PROFILE NIKKI GIOVANNI

NIKKI GIOVANNI is one of one of America’s most celebrated poets and one of the best-selling poets in the United States. Her work includes poetry anthologies, poetry recordings, and nonfiction essays, and covers topics ranging from race and social issues to children's literature.

Giovanni gained initial fame in the late 1960s as one of the foremost authors of the Black Arts Movement. Influenced by the Civil Rights Movement and Black Power Movement of the period, her early work provides a strong, militant African-American perspective, leading one writer to dub her the "Poet of the Black Revolution."

During the 1970s, Giovanni began writing children's literature, and co-founded a publishing company, NikTom Ltd, to provide an outlet for other African-American women writers. Over subsequent decades, her works

discussed social issues, human relationships, and hip hop. Poems such as "Knoxville, Tennessee" and "Nikki-Rosa" have been frequently re-published in anthologies and other collections.

Nikki Giovanni was born in Knoxville, Tennessee. Although she grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, she and her sister returned to Knoxville each summer to visit their grandparents. Nikki graduated with honors in history from her grandfather's alma mater, Fisk University.

Giovanni has received numerous awards including the Langston Hughes Medal and the NAACP Image Award. She has been nominated for a Grammy Award for her poetry album, The Nikki Giovanni Poetry Collection. Additionally, she has been named as one of Oprah Winfrey’s 25 "Living Legends." Giovanni holds

GOVERNMENT

 BLACK WOMEN'S HEALTH IMPERATIVE. This organization is dedicated solely to improving the overall wellness of African-American women and girls. https://bwhi.org

 FOR THE BREAST OF US. A breast cancer community for women of color that supports, advocates for, shatters paradigms, removes obstacles, and so much more for women of color. https:// breastofus.com.

These days, there are mobile applications for every situation that help make your life easier. Did you know there are apps developed for you by the U.S. government to prepare before, stay safe during and recover after an emergency?

Explore and download these four apps so natural disasters don’t catch you off guard.

1  FEMA APP: Find information about disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. This app gives you information about what you need in times of distress like shelters near you,

27 honorary degrees from various colleges and universities and has also been given the key to over two dozen cities. One of her more unique honors was having a South America bat species, Micronycteris giovanniae, named after her in 2007.

In addition to being a poet, Nikki Giovanni is also a writer, commentator, activist, and educator. Giovanni has taught at Queens College, Rutgers, and Ohio State, and was a University Distinguished Professor at Virginia Tech until September 1, 2022.

APPS FOR EMERGENCY ALERTS AVAILABLE

emergency alerts, and recovery centers in your community. (iOS, Android)

2  EMERGENCY! BY THE AMERICAN RED CROSS: Use interactive maps and full weather alerts to find shelters in your area. Choose from helpful information in either English or Spanish. (iOS, Android)

3  HUD RESOURCE LOCATOR: This easy-to-use app allows you to find the most common housing resources in your community. It also gives you information about the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs and allows you to contact providers directly.

(iOS)

4 

FOODKEEPER: Learn how to properly store food as part of your emergency kit or in case you lose power. Find tips to stay healthy and extend the shelf life of food and beverages in your home. (iOS, Android)

Find more up-to-date information about assistance available during national disasters and other emergencies on USA.gov. Get the latest right to your inbox by subscribing to email alerts. Follow USAGov on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

Photo Source: nikki-giovanni.com

KIDS.

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.