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THE ALTERNATIVE VOLUMEPERSPECTIVE 26 ISSUE 40
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C E L E B R AT I N G HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 30
NYC COULD BE FIRST IN NATION TO PASS The Black Stars News 2015 Annual Awards Dinner R AwillChonorI Mayor A L E Q U I T Y B A L LOT David Dinkins, Rep. Charles
FPWARangel, (The Federation ofClarke, for a press conference on Rep. Yvette R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara Tuesday promoting the ballot Protestant Welfare Agencies), Arnwine, Barron, New York City’s Inez leading anti-Sabrina measures. Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, poverty policy and advocacyStephen Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central“Beginning with early voting organization, is leading a GOTV Park Five survivors of gross injustice effort on ahead of the November on October 29 and continuing December 18 from 6:00pm – 8 general election, encouraging through Election Day on 10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West voters116th to getStreet. to the polls and flip November 8, all New Yorkers their ballots to vote yes or no on will have what seems like a “Each honoree chosen for three recognition proposals put forth by the once in a lifetime opportunity has demonstrated NYC Racial Justice Commission exceptional leadership and vision into decide whether racial in theher wake of 2020 protests and Dinkins justice should be or his respective profession or equity David endeavor and in some significant enshrined in our city’s charter,” following the murder of George was a member of the New York Floyd.measure has contributed towards City Council, representing the creating a more just society in this says Black Star News In July,country,” FPWA announced their founder and publisher Milton voter education campaign to Allimadi. “Obviously much work generate public awareness needs to be done hereand and understanding of world.” the three racial around the
“Voter engagement and education are the tools needed in the fight to protect voting rights across our city and our country. When the public is well-informed about their voting rights, they Charles Rangel are more civically engaged,” says New York City Mayor Eric majority. She now leads The
40 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. th
equityThe proposals. The measures gala starts at 6:00pm with a wouldcocktail mark New York as the hour to beCity followed by the first indinner the nation to take formal and awards ceremonies. There steps will in dismantling structural by be musical entertainment singer Cassandra Douglas racismopera in city government, andoutlining from harmonica phenomenon through equity as William Galison. David a value in the City Charter, Dinkins is honoredafor Lifetime Achievement establishing Racial Equity — he was New York City’s first Office,African and tracking the “true cost American mayor and also of living” in New York welcomed NelsonCity. Mandela to the
that the City considers the true cost of living when setting policies and making program decisions.”
YEARS!
York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system.
Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their New York City government. Let us company Front Row Production, “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” get tobrought the polls!” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” a multi-ethnic to FPWAwith is an anti-povertycast policy Broadway. In 2016 they and advocacy organization bring “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner committed to advancing Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway.
economic opportunity and Honorees, Central upward mobilitythe forso-called New Yorkers Park 5, are collectively and with low incomes. FPWA has long individually heroes. They are servedsurvivors New York City’s social of one of the ugliest service sector, advocating fairYork’s miscarriage of justice infor New publichistory; policies for people with low having been railroaded
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.
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 city after his release in 1990. or management — he was one Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad Voter education efforts on these Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored of the pioneering developerswho O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, proposals have been supportedhas for Lifetime Achievement, helped turn around and revitalize Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), by Mayor Eric Adams, New served in Congress since 1971. He says is Jennifer Jones Austin, CEO Adams. “FPWA’s voter education incomes the(NY1 agencies the once-blighted Anacostia Erroland Louis News),that Amel Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder York City Council Speaker a recipient of The Bronze medal for and Executive Director of FPWA. D.C. campaign powers New Yorkers serve Larrieux them. FPWA’s member neighborhood in Washington, (Entertainer), Dr. William of World ofabout Money, is a is champion helping save soldiers behind enemy“Taken Adrienne Adams, New York City A together, champion the of African-American three ballot with information what network of 170 human-service Pollard (Medgar Evers College), of financial literacy for youth-line during the Korean War. economic empowerment Peebles’ on is the ballot and helps generate sheand faith-based Comptroller Brand Lander, and proposals would define and cast organizations Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba teaches knowledge about handling contemplating possible run for NYC Rep. Adriano Espaillat, Rep. Yvette Clarke many is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna a vision of equity fora all who live awareness what is at stake money,on budgeting and planning. reach more than 1.5 million mayor in 2017. member of Jennifer the US House of whom joined Jonesof University), here; establish accountability in November. New Yorkers can peopleFountain living in(Columbia New York’s Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of Representatives from New Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Honoree Barbara Arnwine, Austin, CEO and Executive for government to create, adopt civil vote on the Racial Justice communities each year. Find out Dancy th the nation’s leading educators. He’s York whose 9 district covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local rights lawyer, is a champion of Director of FPWA and Chair of and implement plans to advance Commission’s ballot initiatives to more at fpwa.org, Facebook, much of central Brooklyn. Before 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic the Racial Justice Commission, and justice; and ensure place of racial equity at the heart of Twitter, andNetwork), Instagram. entering Congress in 2007, she equityminority Action and many others. The City University of New groups — the emerging
INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS
PAGE 2 Education FLY BLUE!pg.5 PAGE 2 EMPOWERING OUR GIRLS NewYorkTrendnyc
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N AT ION AL
MICHELLE OBAMA ANNOUNCES GIRLS EDUCATION AND EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION
Recently, in celebration of International Day of the Girl, former First Lady Michelle Obama announced that the Girls Opportunity Alliance, a program of the Obama Foundation, is launching a new campaign. Get Her There is a global call to action to help educate and empower adolescent girls around the world to reach their full potential. Over the next five years, the Alliance aims to bring together a diverse group of everyday people, corporations, industry leaders, nonprofits, and valuable stakeholders to support hundreds of community-based organizations worldwide, reaching thousands of adolescent girls.
“When we launched the Girls Opportunity Alliance four years ago today, we knew the key to advancing our work was an alliance of stakeholders coming together to support girls completing their education,” said Michelle Obama. “And that is exactly what the Get Her There campaign was created to do. The barriers our girls face today are steep and are leaving millions of girls out of school. Our goal is to help clear away all that’s standing in the way of girls achieving their dreams. While that’s too big of a challenge for any one
of us to tackle alone, it’s something I know can be accomplished if we all work together. We all have a role to play in ensuring girls get the opportunities they deserve, so I hope everyone will join us on our mission to get every girl to the place she wants to be.”
community-based organizations in 20 countries, including India, Malawi, Cambodia, and Peru, and has provided these organizations with access to resources to help inform and strengthen their work. Over the next five years, the Girls Opportunity Alliance’s Get Her
Get Her There represents an expansion of the Girls Opportunity Alliance’s reach and impact. Since 2018, the Girls Opportunity Alliance has worked to inspire, empower, and connect more than 4,000 leaders and communitybased organizations who are working to support adolescent girls around the world; drive specific commitments through the Girls Opportunity Alliance Fund; and galvanize young people everywhere to take action in support of their peers.
There campaign will fund more than 100 organizations and grow its network of leaders around the world who are helping to educate and empower our girls. Today, the Girls Opportunity Alliance is adding 12 new communitybased organizations from countries like Kenya, India, and Colombia to its fund as part of this effort.
To date, the Girls Opportunity Alliance has funded 54 projects from
The Girls Opportunity Alliance is grateful to all of the donors and partners that are making Get Her There possible and is proud to announce its diverse coalition of growing sponsors, collaborators, and supporters who
are united in ensuring all girls are empowered with the resources they need to fulfill their potential:
FOUNDING SPONSORS Comcast NBCUniversal lululemon Saks Fifth Avenue Supporting Sponsors The LEGO Group FedEx Participating Sponsor Olivela Nonprofit Collaborators CAMFED – Campaign for Female Education CARE Girl Rising Girls Inc. International Center for Research on Women Room to Read She’s the First The GIRL Center and the Population Council The United Nations Girls’ Education Initiative UNICEF USA For more information about Get Her There and the Obama Foundation’s Girls Opportunity Alliance, visit GetHerThere.org.
NAAIA DIRECTORS NAME NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) announces the appointment of Omari Jahi Aarons as its Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer. Effective October 1st, Aarons is responsible for the strategic development and execution of the organization’s goals and objectives. Most recently, Aarons was hired by NAAIA as its National Program Director to manage national office functions following the vacancy created by the organization’s former executive director, Margaret Redd’s, departure. Over the last two years, Aarons has worked as an independent management consultant specializing in workplace equity and inclusion. Prior, Aarons served as Employee Enablement Strategy Leader for Liberty Mutual’s Global Retail Markets U.S. Division. In that role, Aarons led a rewards and recognition team and an employee culture team that targeted specific interactions in the employee experience to accelerate and deepen customer-centric efforts. Aarons also served as an advisor to senior leaders on workplace inclusion strategies as the national co-chair of the African descent employee resource group where he is credited as a key influencer in crafting the company’s conversation on race and race relations. Aarons also spent 10 years at Macy’s after completing their executive development program in the credit and customer service division and progressing to senior manager and
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Change and Rising Star, with additional recent recognitions from the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Business Equality Magazine. He is a licensed minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Aarons is a graduate of Xavier University (Ohio) and is pursuing his Master of Divinity at Boston University School of Theology.
director roles in stores learning and development, leadership development and human resources. “Omari has a deep sense of commitment to every aspect of NAAIA’s operations and our mission to diversify the insurance industry,” said George Woods, NAAIA National Board Chair. “He has been a partner liaison, corporate advocate, chapter charter member, and a chapter president - all experiences that will inform his vision, leadership and execution of this role.”
“For over 25 years, NAAIA has been a significant presence in the insurance industry with our coalition of partners and members advocating and leading change,” remarks Aarons. “I’m honored to protect and preserve NAAIA’s legacy while guiding us into an even brighter future that meets the demands of this moment.” Aarons, who resides in Boston, was recognized for his corporate leadership and community service by Insurance Business America as a 2020 Leader of
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Margaret Redd announced her retirement internally to corporate partners and organizational leaders in May. Redd started her career with the Saint Paul Companies in 1977 and held senior roles with CNA and MetLife in distribution, marketing, and channel management before joining NAAIA in 2015. NAAIA thanks Margaret Redd for her passion, commitment, and significant contributions to NAAIA and the insurance industry. The Board retained Diversified Search Group to conduct the national search for its Executive Director. The National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) was organized to create a network among people of color and others employed in or affiliated with the insurance industry. The association currently has 1,700 members and 22 chapters, with others in development, throughout the nation and its members represent every sector of the industry. NAAIA’s focus is the professional development and personal empowerment of its members, and to serve as a gateway to diverse talent at every level of the industry. Visit www. naaia.org to learn more.
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NEWS r a c i a l j u s t i c e A D V O C AT E T O B E K E Y N O T E C O N F E R E N C E S P E A K E R The national racial justice organization Race Forward today announced Ibram X. Kendi as the keynote speaker for their bi-annual Facing Race conference, Nov. 17-19 in Phoenix, AZ. Accomplished professor, author and National Book Award winner Dr. Ibram X. Kendi is a historian and five-time #1 New York Times-bestselling author, including for his widely-acclaimed book, “How to Be an Antiracist.” A powerful voice on the topic of racism in America, Dr. Kendi won
the National Book Award for Nonfiction for his book “Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America"—making him the youngest winner ever of that award. “Dr. Kendi’s research, teaching, writings, and books have served as guideposts during this crucial period within the racial justice movement. We are honored to have him share his insights and solutions for how to move the needle on racial equity in the U.S.,” said Glenn Harris, President of Race Forward and publisher of Colorlines. “Coming just two weeks after the midterm elections, Facing Race will be an intentional conference designed to strengthen and deepen the racial justice movement. Attendees will leave with their cups filled, their determination sharpened, and their resolve unwavering.” A relentless and passionate researcher, Dr. Kendi calls into question the notion of a post-racial society while opening readers’ and audiences’ eyes to the reality
of racism in America today. The Andrew W. Mellon Professor in the Humanities at Boston University and the founding director of the BU Center for Antiracist Research, Dr. Kendi is also a contributing writer at The Atlantic and a CBS News racial justice contributor. Facing Race is the largest convening of racial justice advocates in the nation and the only such gathering post the Nov. 2022 midterm elections. Thousands of advocates, organizers, educators, funders, creatives, and journalists will attend or participate online. The 2-½ day conference will feature breakouts and special sessions aimed at fueling the work of racial equity. It is a touch point within the racial justice movement to expose advocates, storytellers, creatives, journalists, small business owners and concerned citizens to best practices so they can advance just and racially equitable policies and practices in their respective communities.
“The people who come to Facing Race come from all parts of the nation,” said Leslie Grant Spann, Director of Conferences and convenings, Race Forward. “Some live in areas where they feel isolated and like they are doing racial justice work in a vacuum. In this space, they will appreciate being part of a national movement that is committed to progress. Our goal is to inspire advocates to stay in the fight.” Founded in 1981, Race Forward, which celebrated its 40th Anniversary last year, catalyzes movement building for racial justice. In partnership with communities, organizations, and sectors, we build strategies to advance racial justice in our policies, institutions, and culture. Please note that we have limited space for journalists to attend and cover the Facing Race conference. To receive information on the press credentialing process, please email press@spotlightpr.org by November 5.
BLACK MEN TALK ANNUAL CONFERENCE Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) is among the sponsors of the Black Men Talk Tech’s Pitch Competition, which is part of the 4th Annual Unicorn Ambition Conference. The Conference takes place on Oct. 20 – 21 in Miami. Purvis Bell, a principal in the investment group for NextEra Energy (NEE), FPL’s parent company, will be among the judges for the pitch competition, which is part of the Elite Networking Reception. Four companies have been selected to participate in the pitch competition, which is also supported by Accenture. The companies have the opportunity to gain exposure, get connected to investors and win prize money. “I am honored to participate in this exceptionally dynamic event, and look forward to seeing what the entrepreneurs present,” says Purvis Bell with NEE. “NextEra Energy and FPL have long been committed to helping empower minority owned businesses and startups, and we are excited for the opportunity to encourage and grow Blacks in tech.” Another recent resource introduced by FPL is the Black Business Resource Hub on its PoweringFlorida website to provide access to programs and information aimed to support the development of Black-owned businesses. The site also covers how to become an FPL or NextEra
Energy supplier; provides access to a Black business directory and Black business resources that help cultivate success for Black-owned businesses; information on minority owned business certifications; and a list of workshops, training sessions, and programs for Black entrepreneurs and Black business owners offered via various organizations. To find out more about FPL’s PoweringFlorida Black Business Resource Hub, visit https://www.poweringflorida.com/ how-we-help/black-business.html. Black Men Talk Tech is a collective that supports emerging and elite Black tech entrepreneurs. The Unicorn Ambition Conference is the only national conference that focuses on providing support for the Black male tech founder, and provides exposure and resources to Black entrepreneurs who are leveraging technology to create innovative companies that can be scaled for massive growth, becoming the next "unicorn." Since its inception, the conference has highlighted Miami and South Florida as an emerging tech hub, especially for the Black community. The experience brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and practitioners to share actionable, relevant, and timely insights to help grow your business. To register for the Black Men Talk Tech Conference, visit: www.blackmentalktech.com
As America’s largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.8 million accounts, or more than 12 million people. FPL operates one of the cleanest power generation fleets in the U.S. and in 2021 won the ReliabilityOne® National Reliability Award for the sixth time in the last seven years. The company received the top ranking in the southern U.S. among large electric providers, according to J.D. Power’s 2021 Electric Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction StudySM and 2021 Electric Utility Business Customer Satisfaction StudySM. The company was also recognized in 2020 as one of the most trusted U.S. electric utilities by Escalent for the seventh consecutive year. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), a clean energy company widely recognized for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity. NextEra Energy is ranked No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry in Fortune’s 2022 list of “World’s Most Admired Companies” and recognized on Fortune’s 2021 list of companies that “Change the World.” NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together
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with its affiliated entities, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage.
NEW YORKER ADDED TO SUPER LAWYER LIST Richard St. Paul of the St. Paul Law Firm of White Plains, New York has been named among the top attorneys in New York State by Super Lawyers ratings service and magazine in 2022. “Being named a Super Lawyer is a great accolade. To have been recognized by my peers for professional achievement makes this very special to me.”
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Each year, approximately five percent of lawyers in the state are selected as Super Lawyers. The selection process includes independent research, peer nominations
and peer evaluations. St. Paul is an experienced litigator. He has litigated in local, state and federal courts. He is licensed in New York and the District of Columbia. St. Paul specializes in Civil Rights, election and employment laws, he is often retained for real estate, trust establishments, and other matters. He is a small claims arbitrator in New York City. He is also a respected political advisor. As a political advisor, St. Paul has a deep understanding of government and regulatory policy. Paired with insight
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from his elected official service, public employment service, and political campaign acumen, his advice, and counsel remain highly demanded.
In 2014 Richard was named as one of Westchester County’s Top 40 under 40 Rising Stars. In 2021, he was named as a Notable Black Executive Leader by Crain’s Magazine. He continues to be recognized by various respected outlets and groups for his achievements and commitment to advocacy.
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N AT ION AL SHAW UNIVERSITY STUDENTS NAMED FELLOW Four Shaw University students participated and completed training as University Innovation Fellows, a global program housed at Stanford University that empowers student leaders to increase campus engagement with innovation, entrepreneurship, creativity and design thinking. Shaw students Louichard Benjamin, Exercise Science: pre athletic training, 2025; Marc Brown, Computer Science, 2025; Janell Odom, Biology, 2024; and Tamara Wood, Sociology with a concentration in Criminal Justice, 2024, completed the program during the fall 2022 semester. “Higher education needs student leaders engaged from the getgo,” said Humera Fasihuddin, co-director of the University Innovation Fellows program. The University Innovation Fellows program empowers students to become agents of change at their schools. Fellows work to ensure that all students gain the attitudes, skills and knowledge required to navigate a complex world and build the future. Dr. Vonda Reed, Faculty Champion for the fellows and Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Shaw University, said: “The University Innovation Fellows (UIF) program empowers our students to become change agents on
campus by exploring Design Thinking to further understand the challenges that our students, faculty and staff face in a humancentric way. This approach will enhance our university’s
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STANFORD UNIVERSITY
staff, alumni, the community, industry, etc.) and to help build an adaptable community that remains dynamic and selfsustaining”
ured : bott om row (l to r), Shaw Univ ersi ty Inno vatio n Fell ows pict d Benj amin . row (l to r) Marc Brow n and Loui char Jane ll Odom and Tama ra Wood ; and top
innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, resulting in stronger academic and administrative processes to strengthen learning and productivity for all of our key stakeholders (students, faculty,
Innovation Fellows create student innovation spaces, start entrepreneurship organizations, facilitate experiential workshops, work with faculty and administrators to develop
new courses, and more. Fellows are nominated by faculty and administrators as individuals or teams of students, and are selected through an application process each year. Following acceptance into the program, students participate in a 6-week online training experience. The University Innovation Fellows program is run by Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (d.school). Shaw University President Dr. Paulette Dillard said, “We are so proud of our students who were selected to participate in the prestigious University Innovation Fellows program run by Stanford University. Empowering students to become agents of change in the world perfectly aligns with our mission at Shaw University to prepare future global leaders for success. The entire Shaw family congratulates Louichard Benjamin, Marc Brown, Janell Odom and Tamara Wood on this outstanding accomplishment.” Shaw University, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is the first historically Black institution of higher education founded in North Carolina and is among the oldest in the nation. The University was founded in 1865 by Henry Martin Tupper. Dr. Paulette Dillard currently serves as the University’s 18th President. For more information, visit: www.shawu.edu
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BUSINE S S DRE AM E XCHANGE GAINS ACCES S TO CAPITAL MARKE TS Like southwestern Florida, the small IPO and IPOs in general are in recovery mode. According to CNBC, total proceeds raised through IPOs decreased 95.3% in 2022. Going from a record breaking $142.4 billion raised in 2021, almost double that of the previous year, to an anemic $4.5 billion in 2022. This is on pace for the slowest IPO market in two decades. With small businesses severely impacted in previous economic downturns, what are the important steps that entrepreneurs can take to weather the storm. Is it even a good idea to go public during a recession? Joe Cecala, Founder and CEO of Dream Exchange said, “We know that the stock exchange model, we know that the capital market model works, it works very well, we just want it to work for
everyone. That’s really the policy behind the Main Street Growth Act. It’s to open the American capital markets to all investors, of all types as well as open the opportunity to seek capital in the public markets to all people of all types.” Dwain Kyles, Esq, Managing Member, DX Capital Partners said, “20 years ago the average IPO was valued at about $61 million. Today the average IPO comes in at a staggering $180 million. That has left a
W E L L S FA R G O D O N AT E S The Wells Fargo Foundation is providing $800,000 to the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. to expand economic empowerment programming for youth, underserved communities and the members of the 100. The grant was announced
TO
during the 100 Moving In Faith Prayer Breakfast, convened in collaboration with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 51st Annual Legislative Conference. This pledge of support builds on the more than 25 year history
lot of companies owned by all kinds of people enormously underrepresented in terms of the resources and assets that are available. That is where the Dream Exchange comes in.” Dream Exchange is leading the movement to rewrite this narrative. By creating an inclusive capital market that rewards ideas no matter what corner of our society those ideas come from. Any economy, whether it is the economy of a nation, business, or household, takes creativity
100 BLACK MEN OF AMERICA between the two organizations and strengthens a strategic plan with programs that deliver innovative, sustainable solutions that meet community needs. The work of the 100 addresses the needs of marginalized youth by delivering the most
impactful programming and resources possible in the areas of Mentoring, Education, Health & Wellness, Economic Empowerment and Leadership Development. Through the engagement of committed volunteer members at the local level, collaborative partnerships with like-minded organizations and committed stakeholders like Wells Fargo, the 100 has achieved remarkable and measurable outcomes. “As a company we share a common vision with the 100 for greater racial and economic equity and closing the racial wealth gap in our country,” said Otis Rolley, President of the Wells Fargo Foundation and head of Philanthropy and Community Impact. “The 100 is known for empowering generations of black youth and we look forward to continuing our work together to engage young people and prepare them for financially independent futures.”
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and execution to expand. However, great ideas and creative people have been stymied by lack of access to the resources they need to execute. Dream Exchange has the solution. To find out more about how Dream Exchange is changing the story of access to capital, register here for their upcoming webinar, Wednesday October 26th 4:00PM EST Featuring both Joe Cecala, Founder and CEO of Dream Exchange, and Dwain Kyles, Esq, Managing Member of DX Capital Partners.
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ENTER TAINMENT
P L I E S & K E K E W YAT T H E A D L I N E FA L L F E S T I VA L
The highly-anticipated 2nd Annual Pompano Fall Festival will be taking over the beautiful city of Pompano Beach, FL during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend on Saturday, November 26, 2022 at Pompano Community Park located at 1660 NE 10th Street. Pompano Fall Festival will feature performances from Hip Hop and RnB powerhouses such as Plies, KeKe Wyatt, Lyfe Jennings, Silk, Rome, and many other chart-topping artists. This event was created to promote and elevate community unity between neighbors and local leadership while showcasing a cultural appreciation for the musical arts. In addition to the electrifying performances, this event will also include food from some of the South’s top restaurants and food trucks, a vendor’s village with a host of diverse small businesses, raffles, giveaways, and so much more. The night will be powered by Florida Power & Light. There will be mobile phone charging Solar Charging station for your devices sponsored by Florida Power & Light so you will be able to keep those phones charged throughout the night. The festival has a focus to be the festival that “Parties with a Purpose.” Pompano Fall Festival will feature in the mission of “Partying with a Purpose,” the FPL Community Village
which will be open from 2PM to 6:00 PM and will offer a variety of information, resources, and opportunities to the festival attendees. Some of the confirmed resources are, AIDS Foundation of Broward, Florida Health Broward, and the Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition, Florida Power & Light, City of Pompano Emergency Services and more. If you are interested in being part of this amazing village of resources, please contact Ana Rodriguez at 786-484-9051. Space is limited and deadline to secure a space is 11/1/2022. In the theme of partying with a purpose, the Pompano Fall Festival will be giving away up to $5000 to four (4) lucky HBCU students and other cash prizes to local elementary schools in the North Broward district. “We created the Pompano Fall Festival because we saw a need for this type of cultural event in the Pompano Beach community,” says festival creator and CEO of 2 Extreme Marketing Travis “T-Dogg” Gammage. T-Dogg is a south Florida inspiration hip-hop artist who is sign to International super star Flo-Rida. With music playing such a major role in South Florida community, T-Dogg could never understand why there weren’t enough events like this geared towards being for the community and
entertainment. So instead of wondering why, T-Dogg decided to do something about it and created an event that the community could be proud of. Not only would he bring major recording artists to the city, but he would give a well-overlooked opportunity to the many amazing independent artists who are talented but have never had the resources to perform and open for some of yesterdays and today’s hottest acts. Last year’s festival made waves with thousands of attendees filled the Pompano Community Park to listen to and witness such music legends as Monica, Freddie Jackson, Dru Hill, and Avant take the stage.
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We can’t thank enough the community partners and sponsors included City of Pompano, Broward County Commissioner Lamar Fisher, Florida Health, Shiff Construction & Development, Pepsi, FPL, Metro PCS, Lyft, Frito Lay, AIDS Foundation of Broward, Florida Health Broward, the Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition just to name a few. We have great media partners starting with our title media partner Hot 105 FM. We also have partnered with 99 Jamz, X102.3 WPB and 104.5 The Flame in Ft. Pierce. This year’s festival is going to be an event for the record books.
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Guests attending the 39th annual UNCF (United Negro College Fund) Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball Saturday, Dec. 17 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis must get ready to experience a night to remember. UNCF Atlanta is pleased to announce that Kenny Edmonds, better known by his stage name “Babyface” is the night’s featured entertainment. The 12-time Grammy Award winner and four-time Producer of the Year Award winner says he is at a point in his career where he has just one thing on his mind: FEELING GOOD! “That’s ultimately what any musician or songwriter does,” Babyface declares. “We try to make people feel good.” That’s precisely what Babyface intends to do Dec. 17 at the annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball, which kicks off with a 6:00 p.m. reception and dinner follows at 7:00 p.m. Babyface will be providing the entertainment that will make this coveted event unforgettable. Founded in 1983 by Billye Suber Aaron and Ambassador Andrew Young, the annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball is Atlanta’s premiere holiday season social gathering that brings together the who’s who of the city. The 2022 Billye Suber Aaron Masked Ball Award honorees are Bentina Chisolm Terry, Senior Vice President, customer strategy and solutions at Georgia Power and Charmaine WardMillner, Vice President, marketing communications and community relations at Kaiser Permanente. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens is hosting this year’s momentous event for the
first time. Dickens was elected on Nov. 30, 2021, as the 61st mayor of Atlanta. Prior to becoming mayor, he served as an at large Atlanta City Council member for two terms. He is a chemical engineer, deacon, father and native Atlantan. “We are honored Mayor Dickens will continue the long tradition of mayors hosting the Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball. The mayor is a man of heart and soul, and his energy, leadership and experience will make a huge difference in the success of this legacy event,” said
impact and international community affairs and oversees the company’s efforts to respond to the world’s most pressing social, humanitarian, and environmental needs. UPS is joined by Chick-fil-A, Delta Airlines, NIKE, Inc. and Norfolk Southern as the masked ball’s presenting sponsors. For 78 years, UNCF has empowered more than half million students to earn college degrees. As the largest and most effective minority education organization
students have a brighter future because of the support they receive. In the 202021 school year, 928 awards totaling $6,732,895 were given to students in Georgia. In the past few years, more than 800 students attending UNCFMember Institutions were either able to attend college or continue their college education without the interruption of financial challenges. The event helps support area UNCFMember Institutions including
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UNCF Assistant Vice President Justine Boyd. Joining Mayor Dickens as honorary chair of the 2022 UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball is Nicole “Nikki” Clifton, President of Social Impact, at the UPS Foundation, where she leads UPS’s global philanthropy, social
in the United States, UNCF actively supports 37 private historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and advocates for minority higher education. Education has always been at the forefront of UNCF’s fundraising mission. With the success of the UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball, thousands of
Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, The Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) and Paine College. For more information about the upcoming event visit UNCF.org/ AtlantaMMB or call 404.302.8623.
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.
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HE ALTH W H AT M I N O R I T I E S N E E D The good news on cancer? According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), cancer incidence and mortality overall are declining in all population groups in the U.S.—due in large part to impressive advances in diagnosis and treatment as well as increased public awareness of the need for regular screenings. The bad news? Minority populations – Blacks and African-Americans, in particular – are still more likely to develop cancer and die from the disease. According to NCI statistics, significant health disparities exist within these populations, especially when it comes to certain types of cancer: |Blacks/African Americans in general have higher death rates than all other racial and ethnic groups for many, although not all, cancer types. |Black/African-American males have a higher mortality rate for prostate, lung, colorectal, liver and pancreatic cancer, while Black/African-American females have a higher death rate for breast and lung cancer. |Although deaths from prostate cancer have dropped substantially in recent decades among all men, Black/AfricanAmerican men are twice as likely as White men to die of prostate cancer and continue to have the highest prostate cancer mortality among all U.S. population groups. |Hispanic/Latino and Black/ African-American women have higher rates of cervical cancer than women of other racial/ ethnic groups, with Black/AfricanAmerican women having the highest rates of death from the disease. |Despite having similar rates of breast cancer, Black/AfricanAmerican women are more likely than White women to die of the disease. Kerry-Ann McDonald, M.D., a breast surgical oncologist at Lynn Cancer Institute in Boca Raton, part of Baptist Health South Florida, says that breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among Black women. 8 | NewYorkTrendnyc
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And, she adds, this group is far more likely to develop aggressive, advanced-stage breast cancer. “Not only are Black and AfricanAmerican women more at risk for developing breast cancer than any other type of cancer, they’re also twice as likely to be diagnosed with triple negative and inflammatory breast cancers,” says Dr. McDonald. Of even more concern, she notes, is
KNOW ABOUT CANCER RISKS according to the NCI. These include social determinants of health, behavior, biology, and genetics—all of which can have profound effects on health, including cancer risk and outcomes. Also, certain groups in the United States experience cancer disparities because they SARAH JOSEPH, M.D., gastrointestinal medical oncologist at Miami Cancer Institute
KERRY-ANN MCDONALD, M.D., breast surgical oncologist at Boca Raton Regional Hospital’s Lynn Cancer Institute
the fact that Black women also have the highest breast cancer mortality of any racial or ethnic group in the country. “A Black woman in the U.S. is 42 percent more likely to die from breast cancer than a White women. That’s a shocking number—it shouldn’t be that high.” Health disparities are also evident in Hispanic/Latino populations, where women diagnosed with breast cancer are often diagnosed at a younger age than non-Hispanic White women. “With breast cancer, the median age at diagnosis for Hispanic women is 59 years, compared to 63 years for non-Hispanic white women,” Dr. McDonald says. What are the causes of cancer health disparities? Cancer disparities reflect the interplay among many factors,
are more likely to encounter obstacles in getting health care. “Many people in minority populations are struggling financially and lack access to quality health care and health insurance,” according to Sarah Joseph, M.D., a gastrointestinal medical oncologist at Miami Cancer Institute. “In addition, a large percentage have hourly jobs where it can be a real challenge to take time off from work and get to and from health screenings and doctors’ appointments.” Another reason for cancer health disparities, Dr. Joseph says, is that Blacks/African-Americans tend to have a higher degree of comorbidities – other diseases they may be suffering from at the same time – which can affect their cancer treatment and prognosis. How can racial and ethnic disparities be improved? Addressing racial disparities in cancer care – and healthcare in general – requires looking at the root causes, according to Dr. Joseph. “We need to expand
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health care coverage, which entails providing cost-effective insurance, and also improve access to healthcare providers,” she says. “We also need to do more to educate the population on the signs and symptoms of cancer, and the importance of regular cancer screenings and preventative care.” Dr. Joseph also suggests decreasing access to cigarettes, providing more outlets for a healthy lifestyle including diet and exercise, and making vaccinations such as Gardasil, which can prevent cervical cancer in women, more accessible. “Knowing your family history is also very important, as it can help guide you towards screening,” Dr. Joseph adds. What can you do to prevent cancer? Dr. McDonald at Lynn Cancer Institute offers some easy but important preventative measures people can take against cancer: |Early detection is key as it leads to better survival, so make sure you have an annual exam with your physician. This should include a clinical breast exam starting at age 25. |Perform self-exams of your breasts every month. Many breast cancers are discovered by women during a regular selfexam. |Know your family history so you can intervene early either with genetic testing or enhanced breast screening. |Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40. (Dr. McDonald often suggests a baseline mammogram at 35 years for all women.) |Eat a healthy diet mixed with grains, vegetables, and fruits. |Avoid tobacco use and limit alcohol intake. |Exercise for at least 30 minutes daily and maintain a stable body weight. Dr. McDonald stresses that these recommendations can benefit anyone, regardless of what racial or ethnic group they belong to. “Following these simple steps can not only help keep you healthy, it may also save your life.” www.newyorktrendnyc.com
BUSINE S S
ANNUAL THURGOOD MARSHALL FUNDRAISING GALA HELD Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Board Chairman, Charlie Merinoff announced today that more than $6.3 million was raised on Saturday, October 1 as part of the TMCF 35th Anniversary Awards & Fundraising Gala. This tremendous philanthropic effort and engagement allows TMCF to devote more scholarships, resources, and programs to help identify talented students from our nation’s publicly supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for lucrative internships and full-time jobs. The gala, which was themed, “A Legacy of Excellence,” held at the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square, was the culminating affair of the awardwinning 22nd Annual TMCF Leadership Institute presented by Wells Fargo. Hosted by actor and Grammy-award winning producer, Terrence J, the black-tie event, featured more than 400 HBCU students and 1,200 guests making up a collective “who’s who” from government, corporate, philanthropic, higher education and HBCU leaders, didn’t disappoint. In addition to energetic entertainment performances from Yolanda Adams, Tamia, and Patti LaBelle, TMCF’s past
presidents Johnny Parham, Jr., Dwayne Ashley, and Johnny C. Taylor Jr. were recognized for their contributions and service to the organization. One of the highlights was a special tribute to TMCF Founder Dr. N. Joyce Payne. Her vision formed a movement after starting TMCF in 1987 in New York, which is one reason why the 35th anniversary event was held in New York City. John K. Pierre, Chancellor, Southern University Law Center was presented with the Educational Leadership Award. The National Basketball Association was the recipient of the inaugural Dr. N. Joyce Payne Champion for Diversity award. In a surprise announcement, actor Michael B. Jordan in conjunction with the Invesco QQQ Legacy Classic announced a donation of $250,000 to TMCF. In addition, chairman Merinoff made a $50,000 gift to the organization. TMCF’s Payne Center for Social Justice also received an investment of $500,000 thanks to a pair of $250K donations from Mark Frohman and Jim Clifton, Immediate Past CEO and Chairman of GALLUP Inc, and Chair of the Payne Center for Social Justice. Proceeds will go towards supporting
scholarships and programs for nearly 300,000 students at TMCF memberschools. “Every year, I am so impressed by the level of generosity from students, individuals, corporations and organizations that support our mission by donating and attending our gala,” said Dr. Harry L. Williams, TMCF President & CEO. “The investment in our organization has generational impact as we support first generation students who are trailblazers for themselves and their families.” Established in 1987, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black
College Community. TMCF memberschools include the publicly-supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Predominantly Black Institutions, enrolling nearly 80% of all students attending black colleges and universities. Through scholarships, capacity building and research initiatives, innovative programs, and strategic partnerships, TMCF is a vital resource in the K-12 and higher education space. The organization is also the source of top employers seeking top talent for competitive internships and good jobs. TMCF is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, charitable organization. For more information about TMCF, visit: www. tmcf.org.
BAPTIST CHURCH NAMED LARGEST FAITH-BASED DONOR
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HBCU’S
$250,000 to the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education $100,000 to Howard University $50,000 to Bennet College $50,000 to Dillard University $25,000 to Hampton University $25,000 to a HBCU every year for the past 20 years
Alfred Street Baptist Church (ASBC) has become the largest faith-based financial supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the nation, as a result of a combination of direct donations, contributions, scholarships and/or waived fees awarded to students from their annual HBCU College Festival exceeding $42 million dollars over the past 20 years. On Saturday, October 22, 2022, ASBC continued its generosity to support Blacks pursuing higher education by presenting a $1 million check to Jackson State University during the institution’s homecoming celebration. This donation is a grant from Alfred Street Baptist Church's Tithe the Tithe Initiative which will reimburse Jackson State University up to $1,000,000 for expenses related to the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi. This donation comes on the heels of ASBC’s highly successful 20th Annual HBCU College Festival, where $4 million in scholarships and waived fees were awarded to thousands of students. In addition to the $1 million donation to Jackson State, ASBC has donated and/ or been responsible for the following: $40 million plus awarded in scholarships and waived fees to more than 60,000 students since 2003 via ASBC's Annual HBCU College Festival $250,000 to Paul Quinn College $250,000 to Virginia State University $250,000 to the United Negro College Fund
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“HBCUs produce almost one-fifth of all Black college graduates and meet the needs of low-income and firstgeneration college students,” said Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley, senior pastor of Alfred Street Baptist Church and chairman of the United Negro College Fund’s National Faith and Education Initiative Advisory Council. “We are pleased to support these critical institutions that produce graduates who play an essential economic role as professionals, entrepreneurs, consumers, and investors.”
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October 27, 2022 - November 2, 2022
Established in 1803, Alfred Street Baptist Church is home to the oldest and largest African American congregations in Alexandria, Va. With over 10,000 members, the church serves as a prominent religious, educational and cultural organization in the Northern Virginia community. Alfred Street Baptist Church currently offers four online services, Saturdays, 6pm and Sundays at 8:00am, 10:00am and 2:00 pm as well as one in-person service on Sundays at 10:00am. For more information, visit www. alfredstreet.org/
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MUSIC 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,”
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.
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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 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).
MUSIC EXEC, ENTREPRENEUR 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
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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 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
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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
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.” M ore a bout Stewa rt Courtney Stewart leverages a 360-degree approach to all aspects of his business and philanthropy. By sharing a similar spirit and Image Source: blackprwire.com
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
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
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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. 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.
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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.”
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END NO TE S SPORTS LEAGUE CERTIFIED BY BYBLACK Recently, theBIG3 announced that the league has been officially certified as a Black-Owned and Operated business by ByBlack, powered by U.S Black Chambers, Inc. This certification establishes the league as part of the ByBlack network and distinguishes the BIG3 as the first and only professional sports league to be certified. “Myself and the entire league are honored to be officially certified by ByBlack and the U.S. Black Chambers,” said Ice Cube, BIG3 CEO and Co-founder. “From day one, the league has been dedicated to providing opportunities for Black players, fans, investors, and partners, and we are proud to be a part of a nationwide network of Black business owners. Supporting black enterprise is a lifelong passion of mine and the BIG3 will continue to build upon its successes and lift up other Black entrepreneurs.” “USBC is energized by the BIG3 basketball league becoming a certified ByBlack business. This is the first step of what we deem to be a fruitful partnership, with Ice Cube’s commitment to helping other Black-owned businesses get ByBlack certified. We applaud Ice Cube for
Howery. Recently, Ice Cube also co-founded the Contract with Black America Institute and struck a landmark partnership with the National Football League to have the league invest and partner directly with Black-owned businesses with over $125 million committed and efforts are ongoing. Having this strategic partnership with the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. equips Ice Cube with a direct pipeline to Black businesses at every stage, Black Chamber’s at a national level and a recognized national certification through ByBlack. All of which will support him in his commitment and efforts. leading the way in this initiative and it is our goal to continue this partnership by collaborating with Ice Cube, BIG3, and other Black-owned businesses in the sports and entertainment industry,” says Ron Busby Sr., USBC CEO & President. As a league focused on innovation, the BIG3 had several new enhancements to the player and fan experience across their fifth season. The league introduced the first-of-its-kind Forever
Experience Action Tokens (FEATs), which leverages blockchain technology to sell NFTs offering ownership-like benefits and real-world experiences, redefining how teams and leagues can use Web3.0 technology. Owners include a community of Axie Infinity Members – owners of the now three-time-champion Trilogy – DeGods, Gary Vaynerchuk and VeeFriends, Bill Lee and MyDoge/ DogeCoin, Krause House, and Snoop Dogg and PayPal Co-Founder Ken
The BIG3 also introduced Heat Vision, an exclusive 3-on-3 shot tracking software powered by Microsoft Azure and Noah Basketball Analytics, allowing BIG3 players and coaches access to real-time data on every single shot, including arc, rotation, and depth. Last season also saw the Monster Energy BIG3 Celebrity Game, featuring stars like Rob Gronkowski, Nelly, NLE Choppa, and Wallo267 and Gillie Da Kid. The BIG3 will announce the complete schedule with broadcast dates and venues in the coming weeks.
A N N U A L J O H N H . J O H N S O N D AY O B s E R V A N C E P L A N N E D The State of Arkansas will observe the annual John H. Johnson Day Tuesday, November 1, 2022, 604 President Street and Arkansas State Parks Trailhead, Arkansas City. Established by Friends of John H. Johnson Museum and enacted by legislation during the 92nd Arkansas General Assembly, the memorial holiday honors the life and legacy of Arkansas City’s native son, John H. Johnson. Johnson was the Founder, Publisher, and Chairman of Johnson Publishing Company, once the largest Blackowned publishing company in the world. Johnson’s properties included Negro Digest, Black World, Ebony Magazine, Jet Magazine, Ebony Fashion Fair and Ebony Fashion Fair Cosmetics. This year’s observance will include a Salute to Ebony Fashion Fair with local and statewide special guest models and professional models. America’s Next Top Model, Furonda Brasfield will moderate the fashion show. Select fashions will be styled by Dillard’s and Project Runway Designer, Korto Momolu. For 50 years from 1958-2009, Johnson Publishing Company’s Ebony Fashion Fair, presented high fashion haute couture throughout the United States and internationally. The Ebony Fashion Fair Show raised approximately $55 million for charities, including the United Negro College Fund and sickle cell anemia research. John H. Johnson Day will also include an announcement and ground-breaking by Arkansas State Parks future
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John H. Johnson Park at 1:00pm; a presentation on the architecture of John H. Johnson Museum; a discussion about Jet Magazine; and a ceremony and reception featuring the 2022 John H. Johnson Day award recipients. Funding for the future John H. Johnson Park is being made possible by the Walton Family Foundation and Arkansas State Parks. Small But Mighty: How Jet Magazine Chronicle Black History, will recognize Jet Magazine on its 70th anniversary, and discuss stories such as Jet Magazine’s capturing the horrific torture and brutal mutilation of Emmitt Till. Till, a Black boy, was murdered in 1955 at 14 years old in the State of Mississippi for whistling in the presence of a White woman. This year’s John H. Johnson Day award recipients’ include: Don Livingston (Merchant Bank) in the category of humanitarian; Malcolm West (Former Managing Editor, Jet Magazine) in the category of media and journalism; and Mr. Harvey and Mrs. Donna Williams (Delta Dirt Distillery) in the category of business and entrepreneurship. John H. Johnson Day observance is free and open to the public. All events and activities will be held in Arkansas City at the John H. Johnson Museum, Arkansas State Parks Delta Heritage Trail Robert S. Moore Jr Trailhead and Desha County historic district and lawn beginning at 10 a.m. and concluding at 4 p.m. John H. Johnson was born Johnny Johnson in Arkansas City, Arkansas in 1918. He achieved many distinctions
throughout his career. He was inducted into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame; Illinois Business Hall of Fame; and Chicago Journalism Hall of Fame. He served on numerous boards including: Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, Greyhound, Bell and Howell, Zenith, Continental Bank, Dillard’s Department Stores, Chrysler and other major corporations. He also became chairman of the board
October 27, 2022 - November 2, 2022
at Supreme Life Insurance Company, where he started his career as an office boy. He served as a trustee of the Art Institute of Chicago, the United Negro College Fund, and the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and was on the advisory board of Harvard Business School. For more information, visit www. johnhjohnsonmuseum.org
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AMERICANS FOR NONSMOKERS’ RIGHTS
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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October 27, 2022 - November 2, 2022
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