New York Trend NYC: May 25 – 31, 2023

NEW YORK TREND

May 25th, 2023 - May 31st, 2023

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

VOLUME 33 ISSUE 18

Since 1989

CELEBRATING30 YEARS! BOOK BANS PROMOTE ANTI - BLACKNESS IN AMERICA

-- By DR. PHELTON MOSS

Two weeks ago, the NAACP filed a lawsuit in Pickens County, South Carolina, alleging their most recent ban of Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi's book "Stamped: Racism, Anti-Racism, and You" from every school district in South Carolina is unconstitutional in that it violates the student's first amendment rights and is politically motivated. Unfortunately, the all-white Pickens County School Board is among a growing list of violent actors who must be stopped. They deliberately censor what literary works kids can and cannot read — and in many cases, having not read the books themselves before voting to ban them. What is more violent, as evidenced by the books they are banning, they choose to censor the teaching of the factually accurate history of Black people. These violent acts are rooted in an un-yielding legacy of racism, prejudice, oppression, and anti-blackness. As a young boy growing up in rural Mississippi, I recall my aunt filling my bookshelves with books that told the factually accurate history of Black people — often signing books gifted to me for holidays and special occasions such as Kwanzaa and my birthday with the charged phrase, "Know Thy Self." These books often came with money — "… when you finish, I have $20 for you." Today, while they no longer include $20, these acts have extended to a tradition of passing books that tell and affirm the factually accurate history of Black people between us. This practice would not have been required had I attended a school that sought to teach the honesty and factually detailed account of Black people. Today that remains the reality for many Black children. And to make matters worse, far too many Black children whose families have been impacted by the history of racism and oppression won't be able to purchase books for their children — much less incentivize children to read their

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

history as my aunt did me. The tradition of passing books with my aunt was (and remains today) an act of love and rebellion — more profoundly, it was an act of Black liberation. My aunt was deeply critical of the lack of teaching of the factually accurate history of Black people. She was most struck by the fact that my schools intentionally shared the narratives of Dr. Martin Luther King,

“Each honoree chosen for recognition has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in her or his respective profession or endeavor and in some significant measure has contributed towards creating a more just society in this country,” says Black Star News founder and publisher Milton Allimadi. “Obviously much work needs to be done here and around the world.”

The gala starts at 6:00pm with a cocktail hour to be followed by the dinner and awards ceremonies. There will be musical entertainment by opera singer Cassandra Douglas and from harmonica phenomenon William Galison. David Dinkins is honored for Lifetime Achievement — he was New York City’s first African American mayor and also welcomed Nelson Mandela to the city after his release in 1990.

Jr. but failed to offer the narratives of Malcolm X and Marcus Garvey. Thus, choosing to reject the complete, factually accurate account of Black people's history.

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

Books bans have increasingly become the policy tool of anti-black policy leaders who systematically perpetuate intolerance and ignorance. These attempts systematically and disproportionately impact Black youth who would benefit from the literary work's interrogation of society as they shape their understanding of their people's history. These violent actors know the cascading effect such works would have on all youth's ability to challenge,

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

acts of policy violence today — namely, book bans! As these acts of policy violence continue to sprout up as part of intentional acts of anti-blackness in the halls of state legislatures, local school boards meetings, and even Congress, with the recent passage of the Parents Bill of Rights, civil rights leaders must fight against the attack on Black students to keep them from learning the factually accurate history of Black people in America.

For years, this country has successfully worked to pass violent laws to maintain a permanent caste system to include an illiterate fraction of Black people through the passage of Jim Crow laws and literacy tests to ensure Black people could never pick up a book — much less read it to know their history. Today's book bans join the growing list of anti-black violence by a dwindling majority, insistent on keeping Black children from learning the factually accurate history of racism, prejudice, and oppression in America.

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

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 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.

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

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

interrogate, and ask for a better America.  For example, many school districts nationwide have banned "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison Morrison's work has been integral in shaping classroom conversations across America on race and prejudice. As such, these attempts to censor literature and silence Black writers are politically motivated and profoundly un-American.

This pedagogical violence, caused by actors with no teaching experience in schools, has been painstakingly done to keep the factually accurate history of Black people out of the hands of Black children. And, while in many classrooms across America, teachers have chosen not to teach the factually accurate history of America, it is now being codified through

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

We must fight bans on books that teach the honest, factually accurate history of Black people in America most dramatically — from litigation such as the Pickens County, South Carolina case to challenging lawmakers at state capitols and school board members in local communities through both policy debates and electoral politics. As such, the NAACP is committed to preserving, defending, and protecting the factually accurate history of Black people in this country. Especially that of those who, for 400 years, through violent policy acts such as enslavement, forced migration, redlining, sharecropping, gentrification, gerrymandering, segregation, etc., have been relegated to simply existing through white supremacy. As the NAACP works to dismantle these and other acts of policy violence, we ask that you join us in this fight. The NAACP will continue to support local, state, and national efforts to fight back against book bans. Let us know how we can help you fight book bans in your local community!

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.

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.

BOOK BANS HAVE INCREASINGLY BECOME THE POLICY TOOL OF ANTI-BLACK POLICY LEADERS WHO SYSTEMATICALLY PERPETUATE INTOLERANCE AND IGNORANCE.

BOOK BANS REPRESENT ACTS OF POLICY VIOLENCE THAT FURTHER CODIFY ANTI-BLACKNESS IN THE DNA OF AMERICA.

Photo Source: NAACP.com

IMPROVING THE STATE OF EDUCATION FOR BLACK TEACHERS

This year, Teacher Appreciation Week takes on a new and unprecedented meaning. Celebrated from May 8 through May 12, 2023, Teacher Appreciation Week honors teachers for their service to students, families, communities, and the field of education at large. Teaching is one of the oldest and most noble professions in our country, and teachers play a vital role in shaping the lives of their students and society by providing necessary knowledge and skills, and inspiring curiosity, creativity, and confidence in students.

Unfortunately, teachers face a number of challenges and demands that increase the difficulty of the profession and their ability to do their best work. Inadequate pay, unreasonable workloads, lack of resources, competition from other fields, and changing standards and instructional requirements that do not result in better instructional experiences for students are but a few of the challenges within education. These challenges increase the number of teachers leaving the field and reduce the number of persons who might consider teaching as a viable profession. The impact of COVID has further complicated the ability of teachers to exercise their skills as educational professionals and to remain in the profession overall. A 2021 report by the Brookings Institution indicated how the pandemic had negatively shifted teachers' commitment to the profession.

The field of education has been experiencing a decline for well over a decade. According to the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), the number of students completing a teacher education program declined by almost a third between the 2008-09 and the 2018-19 academic years. The number of bachelor's degrees conferred in education declined by 22 percent between 2005-06 and 2018-19. Since the pandemic, about 20 percent

of institutions reported a decline in new undergraduate enrollment.

A consequence of both historical and contemporary forces, the decline in the field of education has also resulted in a decline in the already low level of diversity among teachers in the profession. One of the most significant events affecting the representation of Black educators, administrators, and other education professionals was the Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka decision in 1954. While this decision represented a landmark victory for civil rights and supposed educational equity, it also resulted in the dismissal, demotion, or forced resignation of qualified Black teachers, administrators, and other education staff who served Black-only schools. Consequently, tens of thousands of Black teachers were left unemployed due to the refusal of white superintendents to include Black educators in positions of authority in white schools.

Today, Black educators are still underrepresented in the U.S. public school system. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), only 7 percent of public school teachers were Black in 2017-18, while 14-15 percent of public school students were Black. The reasons for this underrepresentation include barriers to entry and retention in teacher preparation programs and schools, such as lack of financial resources and student debt, obstacles to college completion, discrimination and bias about educators of color, isolation, and lack of mentorship and support, and discrimination in licensure practices to name a few.

Furthermore, it is doubtful that the current state of education will attract Black and other educators of color. Legislation banning or limiting Critical Race Theory (CRT) in schools and other censorship legislation, including disputes on the holistic teaching

of African American history, has created a hostile environment for all teachers. State efforts to diminish compassionate, rigorous, and truthful teaching in schools represent not only an attack on the profession at large but an attack on Black teachers and students. Misinformation regarding elevated scholarship has resulted in book banning, punishment of educators (e.g. reprimands and firing), and an overall chilling effect that impacts teachers' abilities to teach to their full potential. Furthermore, these efforts have infiltrated institutions of higher education, impacting the ability of faculty to present quality educational

student groups. Black educators have the capacity to reduce implicit and explicit bias for Black and other students of color, serve as role models for students that do not often experience Black teachers before them, provide enhanced forms of culturally responsive instruction and support, ensure deep social-emotional connections and experiences for students, advocate from a deeply relatable perspective, and naturally maintain high expectations for Black students.

As we reflect on Teacher Appreciation Week, we must evaluate not only the state

experiences and conduct meaningful research, including the use of critical theories that help to solve systemic inequities. Additionally, these issues reduce the quality of postsecondary learning for Black students, other students of color, and all students in general. As politicians aim to thwart the teaching of Black history in its honest and complete form, they thwart the ability of Black educators to serve Black students in the fullest capacity and to exist in their professional spaces with cultural freedom.

The historical loss of Black educators has had a detrimental impact on Black students and communities as well as dominant

of education on a national level but current issues of educational censorship and the historical impact of Brown v. Board of Education. These events, in their totality, represent a fundamentally intentional effort to eradicate Black teachers, administrators, and other educational staff from the profession. The NAACP will continue to support local, state, and national efforts to appreciate teachers through actionable advocacy and policy that improves the state of education for Black teachers, students, and communities as well as education at large. As we celebrate teachers during this unprecedented time, we acknowledge the work, skill, and necessity of educators across the country.

ACTIVISTS GATHER IN WASHINGTON, D.C. FOR WEEKEND OF LEARNING

Sixteen grassroots organizers from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C. for the second of three in-person weekends led by The Organizing Accelerator Fellowship Program The Organizing Accelerator, created in partnership between the NAACP and Groundwork Project, is a twenty-week fellowship program for emerging organizers, campaigners, social justice advocates, and future civil rights leaders.

"The foundation of every movement for justice is rooted in collaboration and connection," said Derrick Johnson, President & CEO of the NAACP "The NAACP is proud to partner with the Groundwork Project to bring together this cohort of passionate and dedicated organizers and provide a space for them to learn and grow together. We are building a diverse, inclusive, and representative bench of organizers that will power social change

today and for future generations. The skills learned and bonds built this weekend will help bring their work to the next level and ensure that every Black community across the country is able to fight, win, and thrive." Through this first-of-a-kind program, fellows are receiving fundamental and advanced organizing skills training, senior mentorship, and an opportunity to apply for a microgrant to support their ongoing and future community organizing projects. Over the four-day retreat, the cohort toured the U.S. Capitol and the White House, networked with Congressional leaders on Capitol Hill, in addition to meeting with NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson and Groundwork Project Founder Joe Kennedy Harnessing the power of both the NAACP and Groundwork Project, fellows gained a behind-the-scenes look into how to effectively utilize organizing tactics to enact change at

the nation's capitol.

The weekend included training and leadership workshops to help fellows continue to build their advocacy skills and offered them the opportunity to interface with a panel of Washington, D.C. based organizers.

"At Groundwork, we believe in investing in people — and that's the core tenet of The Organizing Accelerator. There is no shortage of talented organizers in our country, but there is a lack of resources provided to them. With its storied history of nurturing and supporting changemakers, we are proud to partner with the NAACP in this mission to reimagine organizing," said Joe Kennedy, Founder of Groundwork Project "The Organizing Accelerator aims to fill in where the system falls short by equipping organizers with the tools they need to advocate for their communities. This is a long-term investment. As fellows expand their networks and add to their toolboxes throughout this program, they'll be able to help their peers back home do the same. This weekend was full of fantastic workshops and priceless memories, and I'd like to thank the University of Delaware's Biden Institute for helping to curate a phenomenal weekend.

The cohort will reconvene in Jackson, Mississippi next month for the final Organizing Accelerator weekend. Over the past year, the NAACP has been at the

forefront of the local fight to secure clean water and protect voting rights for Jackson residents. During their time in Jackson, Organizing Accelerator fellows will learn more about efforts to address the ongoing Jackson Water Crisis and how local leaders are mobilizing against harmful state legislation."

About NAACP:

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America.

Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities. Groundwork Project, founded by Joe Kennedy, invests in community organizers, advocates, and activists working year-round in places traditionally under-resourced, excluded, and ignored. GWP invests in hyperlocal efforts that build sustainable political infrastructure, engage and educate voters, and build power for the underrepresented and disenfranchised.

Photo Source: NAACP.com

Photo Source: NAACP.com

NATIONAL BLACK TEACHER COALITION FORMS TO REFORM EDUCATION

A group of seven Black-led education reform organizations have united to form the National Black Teacher Pipeline Coalition The National Black Teacher Pipeline Coalition is an ecosystem of national and local partners working collectively and intentionally to implement a purposeful strategy to dramatically increase the number of effective, culturallyresponsive Black teachers in classrooms across our country in order to achieve better outcomes for America’s Black students.

The National Black Teacher Pipeline Coalition aims to:

 Inform local, state, and national public policy and advocacy initiatives around teacher diversity.

Teacher Project, Center for Black Educator Development, Education PowerED, Healing Schools Project, Real Men Teach, and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

As it stands, the number of Black teachers in the U.S. public school system needs to grow by 280,000 to be proportionate to the number of Black public school students. Black students represent 15% of students in US public schools. Numerous studies provide evidence that Black students fare better academically and socially emotionally when they have samerace teachers. However, Black teachers make up just 7% of the US teacher workforce. For Black

teacher in elementary school for Black boys whose families are consigned to low socio-economic status showed a reduction in high school dropout rates by 39%. Having a Black teacher also raised college-going aspirations among Black boys.

Moreover, Black teachers are more likely to recommend Black students for gifted education. Ohio State University Dr. Donna Y. Ford, an expert on gifted education and Black students, found that factors leading to the under-representation of Black students in gifted education  include screening and identification issues; quality of students' education; and lack of teacher training in gifted and urban education. “It is important to support the development,

The National Black Teacher Pipeline Coalition in partnership with the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans, co-hosted a ‘Thank A Black Teacher: Celebrating the Impact of Black Educators on Student Success’ inaugural event at the U.S. Department of Education on Monday, May 8, 2023, to celebrate and highlight the impact of Black educators across the country.

“The urgent question we must now answer is how do we create welcoming and safe environments for Black teachers to continue to pass along generational knowledge,” said National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

President & CEO Dr. Peggy Brookins

“I look to the teachers of the past to look toward the future,” said Dr. Jarvis Givens, associate professor of education and faculty affiliate: African and African American Studies, Harvard Graduate School of Education and author, “Fugitive Pedagogy: Carter G. Woodson and the Art of Black Teaching.”

 Identify and share opportunities and resources that will help elevate each organization’s work as it relates to advancing teacher diversity initiatives.

 Explore, implement and support each organization's best practices in recruiting, supporting, and retaining Black educators in the various regions.

 Build community with like-minded organizations and individuals Members include the Black Teacher Collaborative, Black

men that number is less than 2%, despite evidence that Black male teachers have a statistically significant positive effect on Black students.

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill School of Education researcher Dr. Constance Lindsay found that having a Black teacher results in higher educational attainment and lower rates of discipline  for Black students. The benefits are pronounced among Black males from lowincome households. Exposure to a Black

growth and sustainability of Black educator pipelines across the country during this critical inflection point in our history, given the anti-CRT backlash, book banning, and other features of the culture wars that serve to perpetuate white supremacy. Educating Black children well is the highest form of activism and we need committed, well-trained Black teachers to accomplish that,” said Sharif El-Mekki, Founder and CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development

The in-person event drew more than 150 Black educators from across the country. Individuals were invited to share their experiences and acknowledge the difference a Black teacher has made in their lives on social media using the hashtags #ThankABlackTeacher and #WeNeedBlackTeachers. The hashtags are the taglines of an ongoing public awareness campaign. The live stream attracted viewers nationwide. View event playback. For more information about the National Black Teacher Pipeline, contact Mimi Woldeyohannes, Director of External Affairs at the Center for Black Educator Development

Source: Center for Black Educator Development

NAACP TO REDEVELOP NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

Recently, the nation's preeminent civil rights organization announced its RFQ submission as plans for the redevelopment of its headquarters are underway.

The NAACP is seeking expressions of interest and qualifications for a development partner who will collaborate on the redevelopment of the NAACP headquarters office. Applicants are encouraged to submit innovative and dynamic plans for the building's redevelopment, varying in purpose and function as the Association will review all ideas.

In the interest of advancing access to opportunities to manage meaningful development activities, the NAACP has designated this project as an instance to serve the dual purpose of promoting economic activity and facilitating equitable access to the opportunities afforded by development projects.

"Equitable access to meaningful opportunities is a critical pathway towards ensuring Baltimore's growth reflects the diverse needs of its residents and substantially benefits them," said NAACP President and CEO, Derrick Johnson. "The redevelopment of 4805 Mount Hope Drive will do just that. With this endeavor, the NAACP intends to take deliberate steps

to assist small, local, and disadvantaged businesses and people to not just participate in larger opportunities but also build the capacity necessary to lead and manage them in the future."

As a key component of the NAACP Centering Equity in the Sustainable Building Sector (CESBS), launched in 2018, the NAACP will establish its former headquarters in Baltimore, MD and future headquarters in Washington, D.C. as equitable, regenerative, and sustainable projects. Plans are in place to ground the operations in the principles and practices of NAACP's environmental and climate justice platform. Through this effort, a model will be developed to ensure quality in all aspects of sustainable development, including access, affordability, co-benefits, cultural resonance, inclusive decisionmaking, financing, service provision, procurement, contracting, employment, communications, monitoring and evaluation, and much more.

The RFQ is now open, and developers are encouraged to submit.

ABOUT NAACP

Founded in 1909 in response to the ongoing violence against Black people around the country, the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of

Colored People) is the largest and most pre-eminent civil rights organization in the nation. We have over 2,200 units and branches across the nation, along with well over 2M activists. Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all

persons.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but separated in 1957 to become a completely separate entity. It is recognized as the nation's first civil and human rights law organization and shares our commitment to equal rights.

Photo Source: NAACP.com

COMMENTARY

DEBT CEILING MUST NOT HARM BLACK AMERICANS

By DERRICK JOHNSON President and CEO

I am writing on behalf of the NAACP's membership to make it clear that any resolution to the House-GOP's manufactured debt ceiling crisis must not harm America's Black communities.

Recent media reports have highlighted deeply disturbing proposals floated in negotiations between Congressional leadership and the Biden Administration that would cap federal discretionary spending on critical programs like Medicaid, Pell grants, SNAP, school lunch programs, income supports, and many more, all of which would disproportionately harm Black communities. Other proposals to change eligibility requirements such as adding new work requirements must be resoundingly rejected. These proposals are designed to play on racist stereoptypes masquerading as sound policy.

Thanks to actions by the Biden Administration and historic investments made by the last Congress, we have come closer than ever as a nation to closing the unacceptable gap between white and Black unemployment.

We must not cede these hard fought gains to the economic drag of deep federal spending cuts. Independent analyses have shown, for example, that the recent House-passed legislation would actually cut projected GDP growth in half and increase the likelihood of a recession.

To our many allies and partners in Congress who have claimed to support Black Lives, we are grateful for your past support

and need you to know: this is a moment of choosing. Do not accept the false choice between triggering an utterly avoidable economic catastrophe driven by  politicians; or imposing costs and new harms on Black communities. We need deeper federal investments – not cuts – to ensure all Americans can thrive.

The nation, especially Black America, is watching.

Photo Source: NAACP.com

Early screening of your cognitive health allows for earlier detection and diagnosis of potential Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. Early diagnosis means more time to plan for the future, express your preferences for care, adapt your home environment and seek support. We can help you learn about available resources.

Early diagnosis also provides opportunities to try new treatments. For those who are experiencing possible early cognitive decline, we offer the opportunity to participate in ongoing research studies/clinical trials that may help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s symptoms. Our Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease — one of 10 centers in New York State — is funded in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.

If you have trouble remembering, learning new things, concentrating or making decisions that affect everyday life, the sooner you can find out what’s going on, the better.

ENTERTAINMENT

allblk's NEW LEGAL DRAMA DEBUTS

ALLBLK, the popular streaming service for Black television and film from AMC Networks, announced today, Judge Me Not, from creator, writer, and executive producer Judge Lynn Toler (Commit or Quit, Divorce Court), is set to premiere Thursday, May 25.

Loosely based on the life of the famed Judge Lynn Toler, Judge Me Not is the story of Zelma Jay Johnson (Chyna Layne), an exceptionally bright, young Black woman who struggles with mental health issues, a ludicrous family, and volatile love life. We join her as she takes on her new role as a judge in a court full of outrageous characters both in front of and behind the bench. As her passionate relationship with her live-in lover takes them both on a ride, she finds herself caught in the crosshairs of a psychological thriller that puts her life at risk. The series also stars Javon Terrell (2022 winner of ALLBLK’S national casting call “Shoot Your Shot” held in conjunction with the American Black Film Festival), Terrence Green, Jonathan Chase, Gena Shaw and Bonita Brisker

“The honorable Judge Lynn Toler has been a part of the AMC Networks family for quite some time. First, we saw her on WE tv’s Marriage Boot Camp Reality

Stars; then leading the charge alongside Dr. Ish Major on Marriage Boot Camp: Hip Hop Edition and hosting her own series, Commit or Quit with Judge Lynn Toler,” said Brett Dismuke, General

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Manager, ALLBLK & WE tv “Now, we have the opportunity to continue our relationship with this new compelling scripted series, as we work together to share Judge Toler’s incredible journey that led to the esteemed gravitas she carries today, in this new ALLBLK original series.”

Creator, writer, and executive producer Judge Lynn Toler added “a municipal court is a fascinating, often amusing, study of human nature.  Its where regular people go when they get caught doing irregular things. Judge Me Not presents you with that world through the eyes of a woman who’s not so regular herself.”

A Swirl Films production with Eric Tomosunas and Judge Lynn Toler serving as Executive Producers; Abbey MacDonald serves as Co-Executive Producer, and Gieava Stinchcomb and James Seppelfrick serve as producers. General Manager, Brett Dismuke, and SVP of Development & Production, Nikki Love serving as Executive Producers for ALLBLK ALLBLK is an invitation to a world of streaming entertainment that is inclusively, but unapologetically – Black. Featuring a diverse lineup of content that spans across genres and generations, the ALLBLK library includes exclusive original series such as A House Divided and Double Cross; must-see independent films, nostalgic Black cinema, popular WE tv originals,

lively stage plays, and so much more. ALLBLK is available everywhere streaming services are found – iOS, Android, Amazon Prime Video Channels, Apple TV

film & TV production company with a core focus in diversity inclusion, founded by Eric Tomosunas in 2001. They’ve produced projects including the wildly

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and Apple TV Channels, Roku and Roku Channels, Amazon Fire TV, YouTube TV, Cox, DISH, Sling TV, Charter and more. At www.ALLBLK.tv, ALLBLK offers a free 7-day trial and thereafter is just $5.99/ month or $59.99/year. Keep up with ALLBLK on Facebook at Facebook.com/ WatchALLBLK and Twitter/Instagram

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Swirl Films is the leading independent

popular original drama series, Saints & Sinners, and produced high-quality films and series for BET, TV One, Bounce, Lifetime, Hallmark, Reel One, Netflix & Up TV Swirl Films provides services and content across various areas of production spanning from script to screen, for movies, biopics, scripted series, award shows and documentaries. Swirl Films owns and operates its own 100,000 square foot film studio in Atlanta.

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HBCU MARCHING BANDS FOCUS OF BLACK FILM FESTIVAL THE ARTS

Webber Marketing is proud to announce that its film, “National Battle of the Bands: A Salute to HBCU Marching Bands,” has been chosen as an official selection for the prestigious 2023 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) in the Documentary Features section. The renowned festival, which showcases the finest in independent Black cinema, will take place in Miami Beach, Florida, from June 14-18, 2023.

The compelling National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) documentary delves into the vibrant world of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) marching bands and their annual Battle of the Bands event. Captivating audiences with an inside look at the rigorous preparation, showmanship, and storied history of HBCU marching bands, the film offers a unique perspective on this cherished cultural institution. The documentary will be an ABFF premiere.

"We are honored and delighted

that our film has been selected for the 2023 American Black Film Festival," stated Executive Producer, Derek Webber "The festival has a distinguished legacy of showcasing the best in Black cinema, and we are proud to contribute to that tradition and provide audiences with a glimpse into the captivating world of HBCU marching bands.”

Featuring insightful interviews with

band members, directors, and other notable figures in the world of HBCU marching bands, the documentary also includes exhilarating footage from the National Battle of the Bands event, held annually at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

The 2023 American Black Film Festival will encompass diverse films, panels, and events dedicated to celebrating Black cinema and

promoting cultural understanding. For more information about the NBOTB visit www. nationalbattleofthebands.com and stay updated on social media at @NationalBattleOfTheBands (Facebook/Instagram/TikTok/ YouTube) / @NationalBOTB (Twitter). About National Battle of the Bands : Enhancing the exposure of Historically Black Colleges & Universities marching bands, while developing students through music and education, the NBOTB is an annual musical showcase. The National Battle of the Bands' mission is to enhance the exposure of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their marching bands and their roles in educating aspiring musicians and developing future leaders. Event organizers have generated close to $1 million in scholarships for the participating colleges and universities. The 2023 event is in Houston, Texas, and features HBCU bands from across the country.

5 THINGS TO DO WHEN YOU GET YOUR FIRST PAYCHECK

Getting your first paycheck is an exciting experience and an opportunity to kickstart your financial journey. Mapping out your short and long-term financial goals early on will allow you to build a strong foundation for your future.

Here are five things to help you make the most of that first paycheck:

Open a Bank Account: Checking accounts allow you to deposit money, make transfers, withdraw cash, pay bills and take care of other banking transactions either in person, online or through your bank's mobile app. Most accounts come with a debit card that can be used anywhere cards are accepted. What’s important is that you’re fitted with the account that best suits your needs. Learn more about the documents you need to open an account.

Set up Direct Deposit: For quick access to the money you earn, set up direct deposit. It will make your funds available in your account on pay day, making it easier to pay your bills, send money and meet financial obligations on time, and without needing a trip to the bank or ATM.

Set Up Automatic Savings: Autosave helps you reach your savings goals with automatic transfers from your Chase checking account

to your Chase savings account – just set it, forget it and watch your savings grow! For instance, every time you get paid, pay yourself first or set up an automatic transfer of even $1 per day. Autosave allows you to adjust your goals or pause at any time. Savings goals are personal and setting money aside to build an emergency fund for unexpected life events is a great habit to start.

Tackle Your Debt: Assess your current debt—like student loans or credit cards—then tackle the most critical ones first with a high interest rate. A local Chase banker can help you create a plan so it doesn’t feel like an overwhelming task. Having a plan often comes with assurance and peace of mind.

Plan for the future: If you have access to a retirement account through your work, sign up for it – your employer will automatically deduct the money from your paycheck and many companies even offer a match. It is never too early to start saving for your future. The more proactive you are in planning for these life events, the less of a burden they become when the time comes.

For more information, visit your local Chase branch and speak to a banker or visit chase.com/communityteam to schedule a visit.

Sponsored content from JPMorgan Chase & Co

FINANCE

WELLS FARGO AND T.D. JAKES PARTNER TO BUILD COMMUNITIES

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) and the T.D. Jakes Group, which includes T.D. Jakes Real Estate Ventures, LLC (TDJREV), TDJ Enterprises (TDJE) and T.D. Jakes Foundation (TDJF), today announced a strategic partnership to drive economic vitality and inclusivity in communities across America. Over the next 10 years, the partnership between these organizations could result in up to $1 billion in capital and financing from Wells Fargo, as well as grants from the Wells Fargo Foundation, with the goal of revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering economic opportunity and creating long-term change in communities most in need. The partnership marks the first of its kind in driving long-term transformational impact over the next decade.

“We are excited to collaborate with the T.D. Jakes Group as they play a key role in the transformation of communities that will have a lasting impact for generations to come,” said Charlie Scharf, CEO of Wells Fargo “This strategic partnership goes beyond a one-off capital investment and underscores our continued commitment to diverse and inclusive communities. We look forward to seeing the meaningful difference we’ll make together in communities across the country.”

“This alliance with our organization allows us to further our four decadeslong work to provide economic justice, eradicate food deserts, construct desirable workplaces and affordable housing, closing the digital divide and ultimately help families leave a rich and lasting legacy for the next generation,” remarked T.D. Jakes, Chairman & CEO of the T.D. Jakes Group “We recognize the need for CEOs like Charlie Scharf bending the arc and aim of Wells Fargo toward correcting systemic inequalities. We are committed to ensuring additional opportunities actually reach as many areas of need that we can influence. Disruptive partnerships like this create a paradigm shift in how we can collectively bring long overdue transformation, particularly to Black and Brown communities and other marginalized groups around our nation.”

In 2022, TDJREV began purchasing nearly 100 acres of Fort McPherson, the historic former army base situated in enviable proximity to downtown Atlanta with plans to create an innovative community of commercial and residential space. The plans for this land include mixed-income housing with an array of living choices such as single-family homes, town-homes and apartments positioned in well-designed neighborhoods with ample amenities aimed at enhancing the quality of life through healthy food choices, healthcare options and other wraparound services. One of the first prominent projects that Wells Fargo intends to support as a financial partner is the revitalization of the Fort McPherson property, with the

vision of aiding TDJREV in developing the area into an inclusive neighborhood equipped with ample green space, a bike path, recreation centers, impacting the Historic Business and Cultural districts at Fort McPherson.

The Wells Fargo Foundation and T.D. Jakes Foundation also expect to provide financial empowerment education and revitalize neighborhoods in underserved low-and moderate-income communities by increasing homeownership and fostering business creation in several cities including Atlanta, Chicago and Dallas.

Charlie Scharf will join T.D. Jakes on stage on May 5, during Jakes’ International Leadership Summit in Orlando, Florida for a conversation about this unique partnership and other topics. There is a press registration link for media who want to attend in person or virtually.

 WELLS FARGO –A Builder of Communities Wells Fargo has been a leader in the development of and investment in affordable housing across the nation. Since 2016, the Company has held the position of the top Fannie Mae DUS® Affordable Housing Lender. Coming out of the pandemic over the last two years, (2021 and 2022), the Company closed $10 billion in financing through its Community Lending and Investment (CLI) group and $5.7 billion in financing through its Multifamily Capital (MFC) group directed towards affordable housing and community development. In addition, the Company provides LIHTC investments and has a portfolio of approximately 1500 transactions with a book value of $12.2 billion. Further, in March of 2020, the Company made

a $50 million investment in Minority Depository Institutions (MDI’s); the pledge included advisory services to help these important local institutions to flourish. As of the end of 2021, all 15 institutions received their investment. Wells Fargo has donated more than $525 million to support housing affordability solutions for individuals and families (2019-2022).

 About WELLS FARGO

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a leading financial services company that has approximately $1.9 trillion in assets, proudly serves one in three U.S. households and more than 10% of small businesses in the U.S., and is a leading middle market banking provider in the U.S. We provide a diversified set of banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through our four reportable operating segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth & Investment Management. Wells Fargo ranked No. 41 on Fortune’s 2022 rankings of America’s largest corporations. In the communities we serve, the company focuses its social impact on building a sustainable, inclusive future for all by supporting housing affordability, small business growth, financial health, and a low-carbon economy.

News, insights, and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories

Additional information may be found at www.wellsfargo.com | Twitter: @WellsFargo

 About The T.D. Jakes Group

The T.D. Jakes Group is a global

conglomerate that’s worked for more than four decades at the intersection of mission, ministry and marketplace to solve society’s problems through strategic alliances creating equity and providing solutions for underrepresented and underserved communities. The organization’s four pillars operate globally: T.D. Jakes Enterprises is a civil rights award-winning social impact holding company reaching millions through entrepreneurial training, minority business accelerator initiatives and trailblazing representation in streaming unscripted series, film, music and publishing that has grossed over $500 million worldwide through original entertainment content; T.D. Jakes Foundation is building bridges by unlocking the power of global competition through workforce training that prepares workers to compete in today’s economy through STEM/ STEAM education, financial literacy and inclusion, and a laser focus to close the racial wealth gap and support minority women in corporate leadership; T.D. Jakes Real Estate Ventures is actively developing sustainable communities with a focus on economic development, eradicating food deserts and opening doors for home ownership and wealth building where none existed before.; T.D. Jakes Ministries is a faith-based international organization who’s inspiring content is translated to over 90 languages each week, and whose returning citizen advocacy work has helped over 30,000 individuals create lasting, generational change.

Learn how the T.D. Jakes Group is creating a more equitable society through innovative concepts and disruptive partnerships by visiting tdjakes.org/newsroom

BIG TIGGER BRINGS BIKE FEST 2023 TO PROMOTE HEALTHY LIVING

As part of its commitment to equity, inclusivity, healthy lifestyles and cultural discovery, the Atlanta BeltLine is partnering with entertainment legend Big Tigger and his Big Tigger Foundation to debut the inaugural Big Tigger’s BeltLine BikeFest, presented by Aetna Better Health of Georgia & 1-800-TruckWreck

The idea for BeltLine BikeFest came from Big Tigger himself, who reached out to the BeltLine to help him bring his vision to life. He wanted to connect his rediscovered love of biking with his long-held desire to give back to the community by sharing the benefits of exercise and healthy living.

“I can still remember when I got my first bike

Immediately following the group rides, Westside Park will be activated into a family festival with a health fair, free health checks, food trucks from Slutty Vegan and Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, bike lessons from Kidokinetics, kids activities, DJs and live music performances, all curated by the Big Tigger Foundation. Free food will be offered to the first 200 guests. As part of the event, more than 100 bikes and helmets will also be given to Atlanta Public School students from surrounding BeltLine neighborhoods.

“When Tigger reached out to us, we knew we had to make this happen,” said Clyde Higgs, President and CEO of Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. “The BeltLine was designed for this. It was created to be a connecting point of ideas, people and common goals and a conduit for collaboration. And Tigger’s event is just that - an idea born out of the community and completely backed by the BeltLine. His vision was brilliant in its ability to bring together all the elements that make our city great, in honor of our shared love and respect for one another.”

BikeFest is also a part of the BeltLine’s pledge of support to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens’ “Year of the Youth.” The initiative ensures Atlanta’s children, youth and young adults have the resources necessary to thrive. The Atlanta BeltLine has long worked with Atlanta Public Schools and students and continues to expand its programming.

Health and Human Services, Georgia Aquarium, Kidokinetics, NASCAR, The Coca-Cola Company and Walmart

For more information on Big Tigger’s BeltLine BikeFest, including performance schedules, group ride sign-up, participating vendors and other engagement opportunities, visit beltline.org

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ABOUT ATLANTA BELTLINE, INC. : Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.’s vision is to be the catalyst for making Atlanta a global beacon for equitable, inclusive, and sustainable city life. As one of the largest, most wide-ranging urban redevelopment programs in the United States, the Atlanta BeltLine is building a more socially and economically resilient Atlanta with our partner organizations and host communities through job creation, inclusive transportation systems, affordable housing, and public spaces for all. For more information on the Atlanta BeltLine, please visit www.BeltLine. org

On Sunday, June 4, from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., the entire community is invited to join Tigger and his celebrity friends, including Atlanta Falcons’ Grady Jarrett, Captain America’s award-winning actor Anthony Mackie, Slutty Vegan’s Pinky Cole, Tyler Perry’s Sistas’ Crystal Hayslett and Atlanta legend and custom bike designer DJ Mars, on a 1.5-mile group bike ride through Atlanta’s newest and now largest greenspace, Westside Park. Participation is free, but registration is required.

as a kid. It changed my life,” said Tigger on his inspiration for the event. “In fact, during the pandemic, riding my bike along the BeltLine was one of the few things that kept me optimistic. It’s important to me that our community stays physically active. We all need to live longer, healthier, more productive lives, not only for ourselves but for the generations following us. I also want Atlanta to see the BeltLine as a resource towards those goals.”

“We believe wholeheartedly in the potential and opportunity that exists when the entirety of our city can rally behind our youth,” said Nonet Sykes, Atlanta BeltLine’s Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer “We want the next generation of Atlantans to know that the BeltLine was created for them as well. This weekend also reinforces the BeltLine’s vision of being a holistic path to well-being. Big Tigger’s BeltLine BikeFest is a true representation of that.”

BikeFest event sponsors include presenting sponsor Aetna Better Health of Georgia; gold sponsor 1-800 Truck Wreck; media sponsor V-103; and bronze sponsors Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta Influences Everything, Atlanta Public Schools, Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Fulton County Board of

ABOUT BIG TIGGER AND THE BIG TIGGER FOUNDATION : Radio personality. Emmy Award Winner. DJ. Philanthropist. Big Tigger has earned his place as one of the most distinctive broadcast personalities. Currently the host of a show that bears his name, The Big Tigger Show on V-103 (WVEE-FM) in Atlanta, Tigger connects with millions of loyal fans Monday through Friday. Tigger is one of the most popular media talents, and his audience knows what to expect…a daily dose of the hottest music, the latest entertainment news, and an inside look behind the music. Charity is also central to who Tigger is, so he created The Big Tigger Foundation (BTF), a 5013c non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening diverse urban communities through proactive, innovative programming. Based in the belief that knowledge is the key to improving issues affecting the community, BTF is focused on uplifting the youth through education and the promotion of healthy lifestyles through mental and physical fitness. Learn more here www.BigTigger. Foundation and follow on Instagram @thebtfoundation.

ESSENCE FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF HIP-HOP

It's about to go down at the 2023 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by CocaCola®. This year's four-day event will celebrate Hip-Hop's undeniable legacy with new and returning experiences from longstanding presenting sponsor, Coca-Cola®, and major partners AT&T®, Disney, L’Oréal and Target. From June 29 to July 3, festival goers are invited to break out their Gazelle glasses, freshen up their Shell-Toes and dust off their boombox, in honor of the 50th year of Hip-Hop, both in-person in New Orleans and virtually on ESSENCE.com

The 2023 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® is more than a celebration of music; it’s a celebration of culture, and that energy will be seen and felt through impactful and diverse experiences, honoring top artists and creators in Hip-Hop who have contributed to its worldwide influence. The 29th annual festival will feature new and returning daytime performances, summits, panels, and more, helmed by the world’s most inspirational artists, influencers and experts. Attendees will receive a reminder of Hip-

Hop’s unquestionable global impact on every aspect of culture–from the freshest fits to the swaggiest kicks to the hits that are lit–through daytime programming, partner activations and nightly shows. Activities include the ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival, AFROPUNK: ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ Edition, ESSENCE Center Stage, ESSENCE Marketplace, New Voices Village, Community Corner, ESSENCE

Authors, Global Black Economic Forum and Village, Girl’s United House, ESSENCE Family Day: The Block and more. Furthering ESSENCE’S long-standing can’t stop, won’t stop commitment to creating economically beneficial opportunities to local Blackowned businesses, the multi-generational festival will showcase brands entrenched in culture, equity and celebration. The evening performances at the Caesar’s Superdome will culminate with the festival’s first allBlack women in Hip-Hop headliners and legendary names forever etched in Hip-Hop’s rich history including Ms. Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott and Megan Thee Stallion. Alongside these iconic women in Hip-Hop, there will

be performances by this year’s stacked line-up for a weekend filled with present-day vibes and back in the day jams to bust a move to every night.

“As ESSENCE continues its mission to return Blackness to Greatness, we have to show appreciation to the valued sponsors and partners that work with us to make the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola®, a major success year after year,” said Pauline Malcolm-Thornton, Chief Revenue Officer at Essence Ventures “The overwhelming desire to invest in the economic growth and social equity of the

Black diaspora is evident with each of these corporate partners, and we couldn’t be more thankful for their contributions each and everyday. We are looking forward to our attendees experiencing how each partner brings the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop to life in their own unique ways, at this year’s festival.”

L’ORÉAL - MAJOR SPONSOR

L'Oréal joins ESSENCE to celebrate the powerful influence and impact of Black culture on beauty expression and to promote a more inclusive vision of beauty.

8 kids a day are accidentally killed or injured by FAMILY FIRE.

FAMILY FIRE is a shooting involving an improperly stored gun, often found in the home.

ENDFAMILYFIRE.org