New York Trend NYC: February 2 – February 8, 2023

NEW YORK TREND

February 2nd, 2023 - February 8th, 2023

BLACK NURSES UNITE ON CAPITOL HILL FOR HEALTH

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

The NATIONAL BLACK NURSES ASSOCIATION called on the 118th Congress to address seven legislative priorities for the 35th Annual National Black Nurses Day on Capitol Hill, this past Thursday, February 2, 2023. The theme of National Black Nurses Day was "Health Equity, Reckoning & Wellness:  NBNA's Renewed Call to Action."

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

The Seven Legislative Priorities for the day were:

 ENSURING HEALTH EQUITY: SUPPORTING THE NURSING WORKFORCE

NBNA supports comprehensive efforts to increase access to care for all Americans through changes that will address full practice authority and State Compact Licensure for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs).

 GUN VIOLENCE: AMERICA'S CONTINUED CRISIS

 CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH 

EQUITY

 EQUITY AND WELLNESS: CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

NBNA supports comprehensive efforts to reduce climate and environmental justice. Black and Hispanic minorities bear a pollution burden of 56% and 63% excess exposure to fine particulate

“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.”

NBNA calls on the 118th Congress to address gun violence as a leading public health issue that negatively impacts the health and well-being of all communities. Moreover, gun violence disproportionately impacts the physical, mental, and social well-being of Black communities.

 OBESITY: AMERICA'S HEALTH CALAMITY

NBNA supports comprehensive efforts to reduce obesity and its devastating effects on morbidity and mortality in minorities. The high mortality and morbidity rates of obesity and its related conditions among Black Americans are staggering.

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.

matter air pollution, respectively. Fine particulate matter exposure has been found to be responsible for 63% of deaths from environmental causes and 3% of deaths from all causes in the United States.

address maternal and infant mortality as an ongoing public health crisis.

NBNA supports comprehensive efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality and its devastating effects. Significant health care inequities and disparities in black maternal and newborn outcomes are reported across the United States.

CELEBRATING30 YEARS!

first Thursday in February is NBNA’s annual day of service with Members of Congress and we appreciate the opportunity to share our expertise, leadership, and recommendations concerning federal healthcare policies and funding that impact access to health care and health outcomes in the Black and Brown communities.”

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.

 SUICIDE: A MENTAL HEALTH CATASTROPHE

NBNA supports comprehensive efforts to reduce suicide and its devastating effects on Black families. The rate of suicides has increased drastically among African Americans.

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

 CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM AND HEALTH INEQUITIES

Black medical neglect towards incarcerated black and brown individuals is a longstanding historical tragedy. NBNA calls on the 118th Congress to address criminal justice reform as a public health crisis.

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

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.

 TIME TO RECKON WITH BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH

NBNA calls on the 118th Congress to

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

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

“This year's theme is Health Equity, Reckoning & Wellness:  NBNA's Renewed Call to Action," stated Dr. Sheldon D. Fields, Chair, NBNA Health Policy Committee “As the world continues to shift from being exacerbated by the pandemic, it is more important than ever to unite and educate our Members of Congress about the critical legislative priorities and important call-to-action issues that disproportionately affect the communities we serve. This day on the Hill is extremely important as we continue the important work of advocating for the resources needed to achieve health equity in our communities.”

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

“It is an honor to unite on the ground with more than 300 black nurses, nursing students, corporate members, and partners for our 35th annual NBNA Day on Capitol Hill.”

 NBNA President Dr. Martha A. Dawson.

“It is an honor to unite on the ground with more than 300 black nurses, nursing students, corporate members, and partners for our 35th annual NBNA Day on Capitol Hill,” stated NBNA President Dr. Martha A. Dawson “Every

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

Founded in 1971, the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) is a professional organization representing 308,000 African American registered nurses, licensed vocational/practical nurses, and nursing students in 109 chapters and 34 states. The NBNA mission is “to serve as the voice for Black nurses and diverse populations ensuring equal access to professional development, promoting educational opportunities and improving health.” NBNA chapters offer voluntary hours providing health education and screenings to community residents in collaboration with communitybased partners, including faith-based organizations, civic, fraternal, hospitals, and schools of nursing. For more information, visit nbna.org

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.

NATIONAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH STUDENT ART CONTEST LAUNCHED

Recently, the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida officially launched the 2023 Black History Month student art and essay contests with the theme of “Celebrating the Achievements of African American Floridians.” These contests will run through Tuesday, February 7, 2023. Black History Month is celebrated each year in the month of February.

“African Americans have a long and proud history in our great state of Florida, and Black History Month is the perfect occasion to celebrate their many achievements,” said Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Learning about African American achievements is central to learning about Florida and America itself. I have no doubt that this year’s art and essay contest submissions will be outstanding.”

"Florida goes the extra mile to recognize the immense and historical contributions of African Americans in our great state," said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo “We are proud to offer this opportunity each year to recognize outstanding students and educators in Florida for their unique efforts and talents.”

First Lady DeSantis invites students to participate in academic and creative contests throughout the month. Students in grades K-3 can participate in an art contest, and students in grades 4-12 can participate in an essay contest. Additionally, students, parents, teachers, and principals are invited to nominate full-time educators of all student grades for the Black History Month Excellence in Education Award.

 About the Student Art Contest

Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Black History Month Art Contest is open to all Kindergarten through third-grade students in Florida. Each student will submit original, two-dimensional artwork based on this year's theme. Four statewide winners will be selected each month, and each winner will receive a $100 art supplies gift card and a 1-year pass to Florida state parks.

 About the Student Essay Contest

Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Black History Month

Essay Contest is open to all fourth through twelfth-grade students in Florida. Each student will submit one essay no longer than 500 words based on this year’s theme. Six winners will be selected: two elementary school students (grades 4–5), two middle school students (grades 6–8), and two high school students (grades 9–12). Each winner will receive a 2–Year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $100 gift card for

Florida, coordinating volunteer efforts across state agencies. Simon played football at Florida State University under the legendary Coach Bobby Bowden, before moving on to play in the NFL

•Jonathan Clarkson Gibbs II - Born: September 28, 1821, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Died: August 14, 1874, Tallahassee, Florida. Jonathan Clarkson Gibbs II was a Presbyterian minister who served as Secretary of State and

and third-degree burns over 72% of his body.

•James Weldon Johnson - Born: June 17, 1871, Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. | Died: June 26, 1938, Wiscasset, Maine, U.S. Writer, civil rights activist, and a leader of the NAACP He wrote “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” which is known as the Black National Anthem •John G. Riley - Born into slavery in 1857 and died a millionaire in 1954. 49-year educator career at a school in Wakulla County and as principal of the Lincoln Academy. One of the few African Americans to own property at the turn of the century. •The Florida Highwaymen - A group of 26 African American landscape artists who painted from the 1950s to the 1980s. They became some of Florida’s most well-known painters and focused on images of the state’s natural treasures. Today, their work is displayed in prominent buildings throughout Florida, including the State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion.

 About the Excellence in Education Award

school supplies.

In the contest, students are encouraged to write about an African American who has had an impactful and inspiring effect on their community whose story should be shared. The subject of the essay should be a Floridian. Some examples are:

•Secretary Shevaun Harris - Secretary at the Department of Children and Families since February 2021 after a nearly twodecade career at the Agency for Health Care Administration. An innovator, spearheading the development of the State’s Canadian Prescription Drug Importation program. Served as an adjunct professor at the FSU College of Social Work and as a case manager at Big Bend Cares serving vulnerable Floridians.

•State Senator Corey Simon - Before being elected to the Florida State Senate in 2022, Simon served as the CEO of Volunteer

Superintendent of Public Instruction of Florida. He was the first Black Secretary of State

•Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. - Born: February 11, 1920, Pensacola, Florida | Died: February 25, 1978, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Air Force fighter pilot and first African American to reach the rank of Four-Star General in the U.S. military. Flew combat missions in Korea and Vietnam and instructed African American pilots during WW2.

•Alwyn Cashe - Born: July 13, 1970, Sanford, Florida, U.S. | Died: November 8, 2005, San Antonio, Texas, U.S. U.S. Army non-commissioned officer and posthumous recipient of the Medal of Honor for his service in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Saved the lives of six of his fellow soldiers after the Bradley fighting vehicle they were riding in struck an improvised explosive device despite suffering second

WHITE HOUSE TAKES STEPS TO REPLACE LEAD WATER PIPES

Biden Administration’s announcement is crucial to deliver safer drinking water where it’s needed. The White House today convened leaders from across the country who are striving to accelerate replacement of lead water pipes and focus that effort on communities with the greatest health burdens.

Funding for those replacements comes largely from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which President Biden signed into law in November 2021. More than $15 billion is now flowing to states and local water utilities—bringing both safer drinking water to millions of Americans and many jobs for skilled workers in affected communities.

At a White House event today, Vice President Kamala Harris, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia L. Fudge and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan held a leadership roundtable with a group of mayors and representatives from water utilities, foundations, and nonprofits, including Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), to emphasize the administration’s

commitment to supporting full replacement of all lead pipes within 10 years. EPA estimates 9 million pipes currently bring contaminated water into homes and businesses across the United States—putting millions at risk for devastating harms, including permanent neurological damage and coronary heart disease.

Children, particularly in low-income communities and communities of color, experience the greatest burden from lead exposure from multiple sources. This is due to many factors, including discriminatory practices in housing that have left communities of color with greater poverty and substandard housing.

In her remarks, Harris called on leaders to support seven principles to reduce lead and protect families and communities that include prioritizing lead remediation efforts in overburdened and underserved communities. These areas are more likely to be exposed to unsafe lead in their homes and environments. The principles promote fully replacing lead service lines—from the street to the house—without creating cost barriers or added financial burden for

residents.

Margot Brown, EDF Vice President, Justice and Equity, said, “It's encouraging to see this administration address long-standing, harmful health impacts of lead and prioritize the health of future generations. Everyone deserves safe drinking water - and for too long, many communities of color and lowincome areas have gone without. Federal and state government should support local leaders as they try to access this funding to make sure that help gets to the communities experiencing the greatest harm."

Tom Neltner, Senior Director, Chemicals Policy at EDF, participated in the meeting. “We applaud the White House for its advocacy and leadership to ensure that every community has access to safe drinking water. Too many don’t because of racial segregation, redlining, and underinvestment in neighborhoods predominately comprised of people of color. Today’s event demonstrates that the administration is serious about the full replacement of lead service lines, starting with the communities at greatest risk. The funding is available, and now it’s time for communities to act.”

Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Black History Month Excellence in Education Award Contest is open to all full-time educators in an elementary, middle, or high school in Florida. Four winners will be selected, and a principal, teacher, parent/guardian, or student may submit nominations. Excellence in Education award winners will receive a $2,500 monetary prize from Volunteer Florida.

 Contest Entries and Nominating Forms and Guidelines  Student contest forms and educator nomination forms must be mailed to Volunteer Florida or submitted online at floridablackhistory.com

Volunteer Florida  Black History Month Committee  1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite 250  Tallahassee, Florida 32308

All entries must be received by 5 p.m. (ET) on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. If mailing, please consider the time necessary to ensure the submission is received by Volunteer Florida’s office no later than the aforementioned deadline.

[Note: To visualize underground lead water pipes, see our animated video at edf.org/lead]

One of the world’s leading international nonprofit organizations, Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org) creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships. With more than 3 million members and offices in the United States, China, Mexico, Indonesia and the European Union, EDF’s scientists, economists, attorneys and policy experts are working in 28 countries to turn our solutions into action. Connect with us on Twitter @EnvDefenseFund

DR. MARGOT BROWN Vice President, Justice and Equity Photo Source: blackprwire.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 21st, 2023, will sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 16th, 2023 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges against the property.

Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per six-month period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code.

Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/526/County-Treasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 21st day of February 2023 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.

A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/527/Annual-Tax-Lien-Sale

A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 08th, 2023.

Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audio-tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.

Dated: January 25, 2023

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER

Mineola, New York

TERMS OF SALE

Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts.

However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County's Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a tax lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser's rights with respect to the lien(s) and the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In

addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser's right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act(FIRREA),12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et.seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation(FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed. The Nassau County Treasurer reserves the right to intervene in any bankruptcy case/litigation where the property affected by the tax liens sold by the Treasurer is part of the bankruptcy estate. However, it is the sole responsibility of all tax lien purchasers to protect their legal interests in any bankruptcy case affecting their purchased tax lien, including but not limited to the filing of a proof of claim on their behalf, covering their investment in said tax lien. The Nassau County Treasurer and Nassau County and its agencies, assumes no responsibility for any legal representation of any tax lien purchaser in any legal proceeding including but not limited to a bankruptcy case where the purchased tax lien is at risk.

The rate of interest and penalty at which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount for which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all amounts deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase shall be of no further effect. Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of the sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale. Furthermore, as to the bidding,

1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.

2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.

3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.

Dated: January 25, 2023

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER

Mineola, New York

BLACK LIVES MATTERS CREATES STUDENT RELIEF FUND

BLACK LIVES MATTER GLOBAL NETWORK

FOUNDATION launched their Student Solidarity Fund — an extension of the Black Lives Matter Survival Fund, where we gave $3 million in microgrants to Black individuals, families, small-business owners, and other folks experiencing financial hardship. Both then and now, the government has refused to act immediately on monetary relief critical to the wellbeing of Black people everywhere. For decades, Black people have been told that a key to the middle class is an education. But education has become another way for white supremacy to hold Black people back — preventing countless Black families from building Black generational wealth.

Tuition has only gotten more expensive. And when Black students attend some of the most sought out colleges and universities,

they end up with three times the amount of debt as their white peers — and that’s in addition to the very real and present racial pay gap. Restricted access to college planning, along with racial disparities in income, homeownership, and wealth accumulation all play a huge role in how Black people are particularly burdened as a result of this student debt crisis.

On December 12, 2022, the first wave of the Student Solidarity Fund was launched, which is specifically for Black alumni or former Black students who completed some credit toward their Bachelor Degree. We understand that things happen, and sometimes, circumstances come up unexpectedly that may have led someone to not complete their degree — but this does not get rid of debt accrued. We wanted to be sure that these folks have just as much of a shot toward paying off their debt as others.

In early 2023, the next wave of the Student Solidarity Fund will be available and will focus solely on HBCU students — those currently enrolled will have an opportunity to apply for one of many microgrants that can be used for things like transportation and commuting costs, books, technology, food, housing, or various other things.

Research has long established that HBCU students experience higher rates of housing and food insecurity. HBCUs make up only 3 percent of America’s colleges and universities, but nearly 20% of all Black graduates and 25% of Black graduates in the STEM fields.

Additionally, our HBCU Ambassador Program will be launched — another leg of the Student Solidarity Fund programming. Our ambassadors would serve as leaders on and off HBCU campuses representing

BLMGNF, sharing resources with the HBCU community and directly advancing BLMGNF and HBCU student community building. Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation will continue to push for the cancellation of ALL student debt and the permanent pause of student loan repayments. Be sure to share the application with former Black students and alumni in your network.

BLACK COLLEGE EXPO TO AWARD LOCAL STUDENTS

The 24th Annual Los Angeles Black College Expo™, hosted by National College Resources Foundation (NCRF), is Saturday, January 28, 2023, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, California 90015. The event provides students access to over 40 HBCUs and over 100 other colleges and universities, highlighting historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), and other educational institutions.

At the expo, students can be accepted to a college on the spot, have their college application fees waived and receive scholarships. Though designed primarily for high school students and for college students looking to transfer to a four-year college, the Los Angeles Black College Expo™ is open to students, educators, parents, and caregivers of all backgrounds. In fact, parents are encouraged to bring students as young as 6th grade to help promote their college planning.

In addition to being connected to college recruiters, students will have access to a slate of dynamic, motivating and informative seminars and workshops which include: Boomin’ Careers, How to Find Money for College, Internships and Careers, Why Attend an HBCU, the 2nd annual HBCU Meet the Presidents’ Forum and, new this year, The Power of Your Voice – The Steps to Becoming Change in Your Community

“We are so excited to be back in LA, back where our Expos began 24 years ago! We continue to be amazed and oh so blessed by our incredibly committed educational and community partners. They have been instrumental in the impact of our mission to expand access and change trajectories of underserved students all of these many years. We look forward to reaching even more students from all over the LA area on

the 28th,” says NCRF Founder and President, Dr. Theresa Price

This year’s Los Angeles Black College Expo™ is sponsored by Comerica Bank, US Army ROTC, Toyota, US Bank, Union Bank, So Cal Gas, Edison and WSS To register to attend, please visit: www. ncrfoundation.org or call 877-427-4100.

ABOUT THE BLACK COLLEGE EXPO™

Black College Expo™ (BCE) is a trademarked program of National College Resources Foundation (NCRF),

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a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational enhancement organization serving over 200,000 students annually. BCE was founded in 1999 by Dr. Theresa Price to serve as a vital link between minorities and college admissions. NCRF’s mission is to curtail the high school dropout rate and increase degree and/or certificate enrollment among underserved, underrepresented, at-risk, low-resource, homeless and foster students. NCRF’s vision is to close the gap in educational achievement and eliminate workforce and economic disparities with the goal of ending racism and racial inequalities.

HBCU BUSINESS CONFERENCE ATTRACTS BLACK ENTREPRENEURS

Jalynn Jones, an HBCU graduate herself, Learn Leverage Launch Live is a transformational conference for 100 Black-owned businesses focused on sales, marketing, business growth, funding resources, social media strategy, passive income investments, and tax strategy. "Having graduated from Fayetteville State University and being inspired by her college’s entrepreneurial experience,” said Jalynn Jones “My team and I built the theme for this conference around two essential pillars taught at HBCUs–economic redistribution and African American business sustainability.”

This year’s conference is pushing hard for THE CULTURE, with a mantra and challenge to participants to Learn, Leverage and Launch. What is unique is that this conference not only challenge participants with forementioned mantra but equips then with skills to apply this mantra and succeed through its steps.

The highly anticipated 3rd annual Learn Leverage Launch Live (formally known as the Black Entrepreneur Homecoming Experience) will be held in Washington, DC on September 8-10, 2023. The event will connect business

minded HBCU grads, supporters and other Black entrepreneurs from all over the country while replicating the traditional homecoming experience that HBCUs plan every year where thousands of affluent alumni return to their college campuses to celebrate

their Alma Maters, their achievements, and the long-lasting personal friendships created while earning their degrees.

Created and hosted by Jalynn Jones, founder of Black Pretty and Paid,

While Forbes reports that Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs in the United States (2021) data shows that 8 out of 10 black-owned businesses fail within the first eighteen months of opening due to lack of information (NBC News 2021).

YOUNG NAACP LEADERS MEET WITH VICE PRESIDENT HARRIS

Young leaders from the NAACP met with Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss top-of-mind issues for Black men, including the criminal justice system, entrepreneurship, reproductive rights, and the economy. Building off of a successful meeting between VP Harris and members of the NAACP Youth & College program last September, today's meeting highlighted the voices of young Black men ages 18-35 from a wide range of backgrounds, offering an opportunity to voice their priorities and concerns for the year ahead.

"The opportunity to go to the White House and speak up about what we need as young Black men is incredibly powerful and we hope this will be one of many discussions," stated NAACP Baltimore Branch member Sean Anderson "The NAACP works with communities on the ground every day doing our part to create positive change, but we can achieve so much more with the support of our elected leaders. With the cost of living continuing to rise, we must pursue creative solutions to boost the economy, including supporting young Black entrepreneurs and small businesses. It's great to know that our elected leaders like Vice President Harris are listening to what we have to say."

Young NAACP leaders who

attended today's meeting, including NAACP National Vice President of Membership Dominik Whitehead, NAACP Baltimore Branch 1st Vice President Joshua Harris, and Baltimore Branch member Sean

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

and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.

The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF –  was founded in 1940 as a part of

Anderson, are available for interviews to discuss their conversation with Vice President Harris and the NAACP's top priorities for 2023.

Founded in 1909 in response to

have

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

Photo Credit: blacknews.com

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

ENTERTAINMENT

AUGUST WILSON SOCIETY ANNOUNCES 2023 COLLOQUIUM

The August Wilson Society (AWS), in collaboration with the August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) and University of Pittsburgh Library System (ULS), is pleased to announce its Biennial Colloquium: Excavating New Critical Landscapes for August Wilson Studies, March 2-4, 2023, to mark the grand opening of the August Wilson Archive at the University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The August Wilson Archive arrived at the ULS in 450 boxes containing materials documenting a wide array of Wilson’s career and interests from the 1960s to 2010. There are scripts, production materials of his American Century Cycle plays, his personal library and music collection, artwork, poetry, unpublished work including non-Cycle plays, speeches, essays, audio recordings, awards, degrees, books, correspondence, newspapers, magazines, notebooks, writing tablets, photographs, posters, production designs, props, scripts, and video recordings. The collection will officially open for research on January 9, 2023.

The keynote speaker for the Colloquium is Tony-award winning actor, Emmy and Golden Globe nominated writer, and acclaimed director, Ruben SantiagoHudson. He most recently penned the screenplay of August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom for Netflix, which starred Viola Davis, and the late Chadwick A. Boseman, produced by Denzel Washington and directed by George C. Wolfe. At The Green Space in New York City, he served as Artistic Director of dramatic readings of all 10 of August Wilson’s American

Century Cycle plays that aired on WNYC and NPR Santiago-Hudson has also directed Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Jitney and The Piano Lesson, and has performed in Fences and Seven Guitars He currently stars in the hit CBS

Century Cycle of award-winning plays.  Other Colloquium highlights include:   The Encounters in the August Wilson Archives panel. This panel brings together scholars, artists, educators, and students to reflect on the personal, intellectual, and artistic import of the

transitioned but played a significant role in shaping August Wilson’s craft and career)

This year, the 2023 Biennial Colloquium will be live in-person and live-streamed by KDKA-TV Pittsburgh

To register for the event, visit the AWS website at www.augustwilsonsociety. org. For more information, contact August Wilson Society President, Sandra G. Shannon, PhD at info@ augustwilsonsociety.org

The August Wilson Society is a multidisciplinary community of educators, visual and performing artists and practitioners, students, and theatre lovers who remain dedicated to commemorating August Wilson’s legacy by promoting the studying, teaching, researching, performing, and ultimately the safeguarding of the rich narrative of the African American past that Wilson has bequeathed to us in the form of 10 plays that chronicle the stories of African Americans from 1904 to 1997.

drama East New York alongside Jimmy Smits and Amanda Warren

In addition, the Colloquium will feature Wali Jamal, Pittsburgh-based author, actor, playwright and the first and only actor to have performed in all 10 of Wilson’s produced plays. Jamal will perform August Wilson’s heavily autobiographical solo performance, How I Learned What I Learned, created by August Wilson in collaboration with and Todd Kreidler. The show chronicles Wilson’s life as a Black artist in the Hill District in Pittsburgh, from his childhood to the completion of The American

August Wilson Archive. Panelists will respond to materials they encounter in the collection and illuminate the ways they help deepen our understanding of Wilson’s life and work and its relation to the larger socio-historical record.

 Guided tours of August Wilson: The Writers Landscape permanent exhibit and the August Wilson House in the Hill District

 Fundraising reception at the Rivers Club, Pittsburgh’s premiere city club

 On-site local vendor’s marketplace

 Salute to Wilsonian Warrior Ancestors

Ceremony (in honor of those who have

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private, research university that is comprised of 14 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.

Source: August Wilson Society

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

CHEVALIER TO OPEN PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL

The PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL (PAFF) announced today that CHEVALIER will open its 31st film festival in Los Angeles on Feb. 9, 2023, at the Directors Guild of America. The star-studded red carpet gala will be hosted by NFL-Pro turned actor Thomas Q. Jones (“P-Valley”), the Festival’s 2023 Celebrity Host.

Bologne’s life. With his papers and his music destroyed in Napoleonic times, little is known of his inner experiences moving in the sphere of the elites. Director Stephen Williams (“Watchmen”) and screenwriter Stefani Robinson (“Atlanta”) aimed to give Bologne a fresh, contemporary life on screen. With many of the details imagined based on extensive research of the period,

Chevalier as a teenager, remembers being astonished by how epic his life was— from being born on a slave plantation to befriending the Queen. “His life had so many arcs and it was extraordinarily cinematic,” she says. “Joseph always felt like a rock star to me.”

Determined to bring his life to the screen, she saw a chance to revive his legend— it’s a

evaporating from the pages of history books for centuries.

Williams zeroed in on the pressure Joseph must have felt, a pressure he knows well— the mindset that you must be ten times better than your peers, and above reproach, just to be valued. “You see Joseph start out believing that if he can just excel at everything he does, he’ll be accepted into aristocratic society,” comments Williams “But what he discovers is that social acceptance is not what counts. It is selfacceptance that is most important in a life journey.”

The film’s period, one of rampant artistic innovation yet social upheaval, also felt intimately linked to ours, and Williams structured the film looking not just backwards but forwards. “The French Revolution 4 is so reminiscent of the social convulsions we’ve seen globally over the last few years, with similar outcries for equality and greater accountability,” he notes. “It’s a world that mirrors our own.”

Inspired by the incredible story of composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. The son of an enslaved African woman and a French plantation owner, Bologne (Kelvin Harrison Jr. in a tour de force performance) rises to improbable heights in French society as a celebrated violinist-composer and fencer, complete with an ill-fated love affair and a falling out with Marie Antoinette (Lucy Boynton) herself and her court.

Set in 18th Century France, CHEVALIER unfolds the vivid, timely story of the soaring rise and defiant spirit of the musical phenomenon, Joseph Bologne, aka the Chevalier de Saint-Georges. The Chevalier was what we would call today a superstar—a blinding multi-talent at the top of several games: he was a virtuoso violinist who gave packed concerts; a champion swordsman; an ingenious composer; and, for a time, one of the most alluring, unexpected members of Marie Antoinette’s glittering court. Historians have long struggled to document

CHEVALIER is a buoyant and aspiring vision of a man driven to create and to truly be who he was, no matter the expectations put upon him, or the dreams forbidden to those like him.

Bologne was the son of an African slave and a French plantation owner, a man of color in a society rife with racist beliefs and laws. In the midst of mounting bigotry and raging social fury, his path would take a turn—as he ultimately rebelled against the aristocracy that adored his talents yet disparaged his heritage and confined his potential.

While his story is set in the 18th Century, it also speaks strongly to this moment. From its high voltage opening violin battle, the film lends Bologne a touch of rock-and-roll swagger. But if Bologne’s fame and radiance echo the world of the modern pop star, his tale is equally an exploration of something very relatable today: how a person breaks out from the trap of what others expect or demand.

Robinson, who was first inspired by the

story of identity, of someone who broke the frame, and then paid the price of being left out of the picture. “The more I learned about him, the more I was frustrated that people don’t know who he is,” says Robinson “It was not easy to get him to the screen, but the fact that it’s here and feels so alive is a very special thing.”

Williams, a celebrated television director/ producer and Emmy Award winner for the ground-breaking Tulsa Riots episode of the “Watchmen” series, was so drawn to the story that he chose CHEVALIER to make his big screen directing debut. He was drawn to recreating one of the most sumptuous eras in human history from an unseen angle, but even more so to “redressing the imbalances of historical storytelling.” Williams explains, “I’m very interested in reclaiming the stories of people who led compelling, impactful lives yet have been ignored and dismissed in the larger narrative.”

Bologne is a spectacular example of someone denied his due. He went from being a towering celebrity and influencer to

For Kelvin Harrison Jr. (Luce, Monsters and Men) – who studied violin for 7 hours daily to embody the title role—the Chevalier felt incredibly modern, especially the way he moves so fluidly between the worlds of music, sport, and ultimately the fight for justice. “I felt I could understand him as a Black artist. His path reflects how we all struggle to find the spaces where we can be seen and heard,” Harrison says. “This story asks big questions about art and equality and why so many Black artists have been erased, but it’s also a beautiful celebration of the Chevalier’s life.”

Taking place February 9-20, 2023, in Los Angeles, the Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) presents and showcases a broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes of Africans and AfricanAmericans. Since 1992, PAFF has remained dedicated to the promotion of Black stories and images through the exhibition of film, visual art, and other creative expression. Today, PAFF is one of the largest and most prestigious Black film festivals in the U.S. and attracts local, national, and international audiences. In addition, it is an Oscar-qualifying festival for animation and live-action films, and one of the largest Black History Month events in America.

Source: The Pan African Film & Arts Festival

TYLER PERRY TO WRITE AND DIRECT FOR NETFLIX

The latest in a recent string of important stories from the accomplished director, Tyler Perry has signed on to write and direct “Six Triple Eight,” an epic drama that tells the true story of the only all-Black, all-female battalion during World War II, for Netflix Perry had previously teased this project to Variety, hinting that his next movie was going to feature “some incredible people that were overlooked for years.” Now that we know what he was referring to, we agree that this unbelievable tale is long overdue.

Perry wrote an original screenplay based on an article written by historian Kevin M. Hymel that details the true story of the 855 women who joined the war effort and were assigned the incredible task of fixing the three-year backlog of undelivered mail — all while facing discrimination, unfamiliar surroundings, and the experience of living in a war-torn country. Their efforts and success

sorting over 17 million pieces of mail allowed American soldiers to reconnect with their families and loved ones — delivering not just letters, but hope as well. This story comes at the perfect time, as earlier this year

President Joe Biden signed the bill for the women to receive the Congressional Gold Medal

“Six Triple Eight” marks Perry’s fourth film with Netflix, following his most recent release, “A Jazzman’s Blues.” In addition to Perry, Nicole Avant for Her Excellency Productions, Keri Selig for Intuition Productions, Carlota Espinosa, and Angi Bones and Tony Strickland for Tyler Perry Studios have all signed on as producers. Peter Guber of Mandalay Pictures will serve as executive producer.

Stay tuned for more information about the release of this inspirational film.

BEST & WORST CITIES FOR KEEPING RESOLUTIONS

With Americans’ top financial resolutions for 2023 being “to save more money” and “to fight back against inflation,” the personalfinance website WalletHub today released its report on 2023’s Best & Worst Cities for Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions, as well as expert commentary. This new report complements WalletHub’s list of the top New Year’s Financial Resolutions for 2023 and the corresponding consumer survey.

To help Americans stick to their 2023 goals, WalletHub compared more than 180 U.S. cities across 57 key metrics. The data

WINTER WEEKEND GETS COZY

Here’s a must-visit destination for a cozy weekend getaway this winter, whether for an outdoor adventure or romantic escape. Burlington, VT is a one stop spot. Just an hour flight from New York city, a sevenhour train ride, or a scenic road trip away, Burlington Vermont offers an array of

 A One Stop Shop City: Church Street, the famed pedestrian street running through the middle of downtown features over 70% of locally owned shops and restaurants. From boutiques to national chains, to thrift stores and vintage shopping, shopping centers like the Church Street

Vermont is just steps from Lake Champlain and the heart of downtown and features wood fireplaces and locally sourced details that evoke a true sense of place. Connected to Hen of the Wood serving up local seasonal fare and craft cocktails, the hotel offers all you need in a few blocks’ radius. This time of year, guests can even take advantage of the hotel’s Romance Package which includes a stay on the hotel’s top floor, sparking wine, chocolates, brunch and more.

set ranges from exercise opportunities to income growth to employment outlook.

BEST CITIES FOR KEEPING RESOLUTIONS

1. Seattle, WA

2. San Francisco, CA

3. Scottsdale, AZ

4. Salt Lake City, UT

5. Overland Park, KS

6. Irvine, CA

7. Fremont, CA

8. San Diego, CA

9. Austin, TX

WORST CITIES FOR KEEPING RESOLUTIONS

173. Jackson, MS

174. Detroit, MI

175. San Bernardino, CA

176. Fayetteville, NC

177. Dover, DE

178. Huntington, WV

179. Augusta, GA 180. Gulfport, MS 181. Shreveport, LA

down to the Farmhouse basement to play some board games beside a cozy fire.

 Pine Street – ‘Brewery Boulevard’ and Natural Wine

romantic accommodations for any traveler looking for the perfect, cozy weekend away. With endless amounts of small business shopping for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, cozy places to stay and a variety of dining options, Burlington offers something for every type of traveler and couple.

Marketplace and the Essex Experience offer a nice combination of both. Burlington is packed with talented makers creating handcrafted pieces from waxed canvas bags to mid-century modern birdhouses.

 Downtown Burlington: A cozy oasis in the heart of Burlington, Hotel

 Farm-to-Table: Vermont is known for the farm-to-table movement, and Burlington in particular is proud to support local farms to source their ingredients. Visitors can fuel up at the Hotel Vermont for a locally sourced brunch, featuring eggs from Maple Wind Farm and pastries from Barrio Bakery in the Old North End of Burlington. You might even catch a fire pit blazing on their back patio. For a meal, travelers can visit the Farmhouse Tap & Grill on Bank Street in downtown Burlington. With cheeses from the Champlain Valley, vegetables from Pitchfork Farms, and Vermont Heritage pork, their menu offers you a taste of Vermont like you’ve never had before. While waiting for your table, head

Destination: Running from Church Street down through the city’s South End, Pine Street is the ultimate destination for brewery seekers. Home to Zero Gravity, Burlington Beer Company, Switchback, Citizen Cider, Queen City Brewery and more, the beer selection on Pine Street is unparalleled, and features a fantastic variety of Vermont’s famous craft brews. Pine Street has also become the heart of the city’s natural wine scene, with Dedalus Wine and Wilder Wines vending the best organically farmed bottles.

 A Sweet First Look of Sugaring Season: You cannot come to Vermont without tasting some maple syrup. Although sugaring season is in the spring, it is still well worth your time to take a short drive out of Burlington to learn more about Vermont’s famous maple syrup. Palmer’s Sugarhouse in Shelburne, VT offers by-appointment tours of their family farm throughout the off season. You might even get a taste of a special Vermont snack: sugar on snow. Simply drizzle maple syrup on snow and devour nature’s own snow cone.

CHASE WINTER BLUES AWAY WITH MYKONOS !

-- By ANN BROWN

Treat yourself in the New Year to a world class stay at Kouros Hotel & Suites, situated in the heart of Greece’s iconic island of Mykonos. This luxury boutique hotel offers guests a sophisticated ambiance, stunning landscapes, and attentive hospitality, creating the perfect atmosphere for richer engagement, slower travel and more meaningful connection.

While Mykonos is renowned for its partylifestyle, Kouros Hotel & Suites offers an alternative – a people-centric philosophy complete with personalised service, heavenly décor, and a relaxed atmosphere so you can enjoy blissful serenity. Here is a glimpse of all that awaits you at Kouros Hotel & Suites

A secluded yet accessible location

Known as a jewel amongst luxury hotels in the Cyclades for its ideal location, Kouros Hotel & Suites is conveniently nestled on a secluded seafront cliff while just meters away from the cosmopolitan Mykonos Town. Enjoy a private slice of the popular Greek island with sweeping sea views while being within walking distance of main attractions. Wander through the windy cobbled streets and marvel at the signature whitewashed architecture, iconic windmills, and picturesque “Little Venice” neighbourhood as you explore an array of lively cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. The hotel offers

guests the best of both worlds: the town’s vibrant energy just a breath away, while living in a perfectly tranquil setting promising peace, relaxation, and a memorable stay. Chic and authentically Greek design with attentive VIP service.

Kouros Hotel & Suites is the very definition of Mediterranean chic with a sense of simplicity and warmth that feels quintessentially Greek. The design of the grand complex, with its whitewashed and stone-built buildings, combines traditional Cycladic architecture and ornate motifs with modern design elements, imbuing a sense of timeless elegance.

The waterfront property offers 49 spacious rooms and suites with unobstructed panoramic sea views. These bright and airy accommodations are tastefully adorned with splashes of pastel colours, subtle Bohemian notes, and minimalist design accents.

Complete with luxury amenities and private balconies and terraces, everything about the hotel has been intentionally designed to prioritize guests’ comfort and convenience. The hotel’s attention to detail extends beyond the design of the hotel itself and is equally reflected in its attentive service.

Kouros Hotel & Suites delivers personalised VIP services to all hotel guests, starting with an in-room champagne breakfast, 24-hour front desk, 24-hour room service, multilingual staff, express check-out and free parking. Additionally, morning wake-up calls, secretarial, laundry, babysitting and other special services can be arranged upon request.

Wellness facilities with unique offerings

As you lounge on a sunbed at the hotel’s stunning pool, enjoy one-of-a-kind panoramic views of Mykonos’s pristine turquoise and azure waters. Savor this unique vantage as

you watch the sun melt into the sea and experience the magic of a Mykonos sunset. After a day of poolside relaxation or sightseeing around town, pamper yourself at the property’s lavish Zoe Spa designed to elevate your senses to new heights. Equipped with a rain therapy shower, hammam, jacuzzi and hydrotherapy areas, the spa menu offers the most sumptuous range of treatments for both singles and couples.

Kouros Hotel & Suites additionally offers guests a fully equipped fitness center. Classic Greek delicacies with a modern twist Dine under the Greek sky at Narcissus, the hotel’s signature seaside restaurant. Chef Argyris Aglamisis’s carefully curated menu will tantalize your tastebuds with creative and modern twists on traditional Greek delicacies. This modern and airy venue serves an unforgettably authentic dining experience as the freshest and finest ingredients are handpicked from local markets so you can enjoy the truest taste of Mykonos.

However you choose to spend your day, a stay at Kouros Hotel & Suites is the ultimate expression of sublime refinement and provides a welcome respite for even the most discerning of travellers.

Book your stay for next year at this five-star luxury boutique hotel with rates starting from £190 per day for a Premium Sea View room.

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

NEW WORLD SYMPHONY PRESENTS ‘I DREAM A WORLD’

New World Symphony announces I

Dream a World: The Harlem Renaissance in Europe. Taking place from February 3-15, 2023, this multidisciplinary Festival builds on 2022’s inaugural I Dream a World Festival and underlines New World Symphony’s ongoing commitment to inclusive programming and representation of Black musicians and creatives. To purchase tickets, visit bit.ly/3QzRV3P This season’s Festival is a twoweek exploration of the transAtlantic movement and influence of the Harlem Renaissance in Europe. Amid America’s cultural explosion, racial inequality limited artistic freedom and expression for Black creatives – sparking a widespread movement to Europe in search of better opportunities.

I Dream a World: The Harlem Renaissance in Europe will focus on the artists who found success in Europe between 1917 and 1935, exploring the impact of World War I, the rise and spread of Nazism, and World War II on the spread of Harlem Renaissance ideology and Black music in Europe. Festival collaborators include Dr. Tammy Kernodle (University Distinguished Professor of Musicology at Miami University of Ohio), Dr. Samantha Ege (Lord Crewe Junior Research Fellow in Music at Lincoln College, University of Oxford), Conductor William Eddins and Branford Marsalis (composer, bandleader, and GRAMMY Award-winning saxophonist). In addition to a robust series of concerts, the Festival will feature an exhibition curated by Christopher Norwood, a lecture presented by FIU/ Wolfsonian, and a film presented by the City of Miami Beach and the American Black Film Festival

“This year, the I Dream a World Festival extends its cultural lens and musical ear to consider the sounds and personalities that preceded the Harlem Renaissance in America and how they influenced cultural trends in Post-World War I Europe,” shared Festival curator Dr. Tammy

L. Kernodle “It is more than just an exploration of the ideological and cultural reach of the movement. I Dream a World seeks to challenge the dualities of concert and popular music, provincial and cosmopolitan culture to illuminate how black music, the cultural spaces that incubated it, and the communities of artisans and intellectuals that engaged with it through performance, color, movement, and word shaped the modern world.”

This Festival is funded in part by the NWS Collaborations Fund and the NWS Fund for New Ventures

I DREAM A WORLD: THE HARLEM RENAISSANCE IN EUROPE

February 3 – 15, 2023

 Cabaret Concert

Friday, February 3, 2023, 7:30PM EST & 9:30PM EST, at New World Center (Truist Pavilion)

The New World Center’s Truist Pavilion will transform into a Parisian nightclub inspired by the legendary Chez Bricktop Proprietress Ada “Bricktop” Smith, an American dancer, jazz singer and Vaudevillian, set the tone for Paris’s “café society” and was known for entertaining

royalty, movie stars, and writers.  American sopranos Julia Bullock and Louise Toppin, pianist Christian Reif, and NWS Fellows pay homage to Black jazz and blues culture with works by Billie Holiday, Alberta Hunter, Cole Porter, Harold Arlen, Duke Ellington, and Bricktop herself.

 I Dream a World: Symphonic Persuasion

Saturday, February 4, 2023, 7:30PM EST, at New World Center (John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Stage, Michael Tilson Thomas Performance Hall), WALLCAST® Concert in SoundScape Park and live

of English at Florida International University, joined by NWS Fellows

 The Sound Heard Around the World: The Music of James Reese Europe

Tuesday, February 7, 2023, 7:30PM, at New World Center (John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Stage, Michael Tilson Thomas Performance Hall)

GRAMMY Award-winning saxophonist and bandleader Branford Marsalis and Florida Memorial University broadcast journalism professor Russell Motley present an exploration of American ragtime bandleader, arranger, and composer, James Reese Europe, who is

ensure this work is available to students, teachers, programmers, and music lovers.

 Chamber Music

Friday, February 10, 2023, 7:30PM EST, at Lyric Theater, Overtown Festival Curator Dr. Tammy Kernodle and NWS Dean of Instrumental Performance Michael Linville curate a special evening of chamber music from Black composers working in or inspired by the Harlem Renaissance. In collaboration with the Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida, Inc., this concert will be presented at the Lyric Theater in Historic Overtown, a historically Black neighborhood.

Overtown’s cultural growth in the 1930s mirrored the renaissance happening in Harlem during the same years and earned the area the nickname “Little Broadway.” Overtown served as a place of refuge for Black performers including Billie Holiday, Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald and many others who were not welcome to lodge overnight in the prominent Miami and Miami Beach hotels where they were invited to perform.

 Concert for Kids: I Dream a World Sunday, February 12, 2022, 11:30AM EST, at New World Center (John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Stage, Michael Tilson Thomas Performance Hall) This celebratory program, designed to engage audience members aged four to nine, brings the music from this era to life in exciting and educational ways, with pre-concert activities and an interactive performance. Led by New World Symphony Conducting Fellow Chad Goodman, this concert features jazz, blues, and ragtime and will bring out the bandleader in everyone.

 WALLCAST® Film:

The Harlem Hellfighters Great War (2019)

Wednesday, February 15, 2022, 8:00PM EST SoundScape Park, New World Center, WALLCAST® presentation  Presented in partnership with the City of Miami Beach and the American Black Film Festival, this free WALLCAST® film tells the story of the 15th Regiment of the New York National Guard, made up entirely of African American soldiers, who served in the French Army in WWI. The documentary features archival footage of President Barack Obama honoring the Hellfighters and commentary from American and French scholars.

webcast at nws.edu

Sunday, February 5, 2023, 2:00PM EST, at New World Center (John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Stage, Michael Tilson Thomas Performance Hall)

Conductor William Eddins takes the New World Symphony podium to lead a two-night celebration of works influenced by the art and artists of the Jazz Age. These concerts will be hosted by Festival curator, Dr. Tammy Kernodle. The NWS will be joined by soprano Louise Toppin in works by Coleridge Taylor, James P. Johnson, Scott Joplin, Igor Stravinsky, and Maurice Ravel

These concerts will be preceded by a discussion on the African Diaspora hosted by Shawn Anthony Christian, Associate Professor and Chair, Dept of English, Florida International University and Nathaniel Cadle, Associate Professor

easily characterized as one of the most dynamic musical figures to emerge out of America’s music scene during the first two decades of the 20th century, He and the many musicians with whom he collaborated contributed to not only the global popularity of blues, early jazz, and orchestral ragtime, but also elevated readings of Black music culture.

 Music for Keyboard

Wednesday, February 8, 2023, 7:30PM

EST, at New World Center (Truist Pavillion)   Hosted by British musicologist and pianist, Dr. Samantha Ege, this concert features keyboard centric music by Black composers. Dr. Ege will be joined by William Eddins and the NWS Piano Fellows to showcase this work from artists including Florence Price. Recordings from this concert will be included in the NWS’s 36Keys.com, a digital resource library to

 Festival Exhibition: Le Paris Noir: Henry Ossawa Tanner & Lois Mailou Jones

February 3-12 New World Center Atrium

Lobby

Christopher Norwood, curator and founder of Hampton Art Lovers at the Historic Ward Rooming House curates an installation from The Norwood Collection with art and related works of African American painters Henry Ossawa Tanner (1859-1937) & Lois Mailou Jones (19051998). The first internationally recognized male and female African American artists, both found human and artistic freedom in France. The exhibition can be viewed throughout the duration of the festival. The New World Symphony, America’s

EDUCATION

PHILANDER SMITH COLLEGE APPROVED FOR MBA PROGRAM

Philander Smith College (PSC) has received approval from its accrediting body, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), to officially become a graduate degree-granting institution. The College’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program was approved by the HLC’s Institutional Actions Council in November 2022.

"On the heels of the 145th anniversary of Philander Smith College, we are elated about this milestone announcement. When our 10-Year-Long-Range Strategic Plan was implemented six years ago, one of our key goals was to establish an MBA program. Thus, I am tremendously proud that our

team – led by Dr. Cedric Stone, Division of Business Administration Chair –  helped make possible the historic pivot in our status from college to university,” said Roderick L. Smothers, Sr., President of Philander Smith College

An initial cohort of 25 students is expected to launch the 36-credit hour program when it begins in May 2023. With options for online and in-person classes, concentration areas will include project management and management. “We are excited that PSC will hold the distinction as the only historically black college in Central Arkansas to offer an MBA degree,” said President Smothers “For

the busy working professional, ours is an accelerated program that will allow students to matriculate in as little as 12 months. Additionally, our project management track will be offered fully online, and for students who desire an on-campus experience, we will have a more traditional accelerated format focused on general business management.”

Applications for the new MBA program are slated to open on February 1, 2023. For more information, visit www.Philander. edu or contact PSC’s Division of Business Administration at (501) 370-5360.

TRAVIS SCOTT OPENS ACCESS TO EMERGENCY SCHOLARSHIPS

Travis Scott’s Waymon Webster Scholarship Fund provides financial support to HBCU students in their senior year who are facing financial challenges to ensure they can graduate on schedule.

The scholarship is led by the vision of Travis Scott and his family, who has a long history of involvement in HBCUs. Both his parents and his sister attended HBCUs while his brother is currently enrolled also in an HBCU. The scholarship fund is named after his grandfather Waymon Webster, who attended Prairie View A&M Graduate School and served as its dean. Since this initiative is close to his heart, Scott has always been dedicated to providing help to Black students.

“I want students to know they can accomplish anything they set their mind to and that in a moment of financial

uncertainty, we are here to help. I hope these scholarships will free them up to be as innovative and creative as they can be as they conclude one chapter of their lives and begin another. Money should not be a barrier for students to dream big,” Scott said, according to The HBCU Foundation

In 2022, Scott gave away $1 million in scholarships through the Waymon Webster Scholarship Fund. 100 HBCU students from the graduating class of 2022 received $10,000 each to help pay for their final tuition fees so they could surely receive their college diplomas on time.

Most recently, Scott’s Cactus Jack Foundation partnered with Astros Foundation to hold an HBCU Celebrity Softball Classic wherein most of the funds raised will go to the Waymon Webster Scholarship Fund

sallie mae ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS

Sallie Mae, through its charitable arm The Sallie Mae Fund, Inc. today announced the recipients of its Bridging the Dream Scholarship for Graduate Students. The scholarship, in partnership with Thurgood Marshall College Fund, provides $10,000 to 10 deserving graduate students who plan to use their degree to advocate for social justice and support their communities.

This year’s scholarship recipients are enrolled in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), state colleges, and Ivy League universities and were selected from nearly 500 applicants. They are aspiring doctors, nurses, educators, engineers, and social workers, with diverse and unique backgrounds.

This year’s recipients of The Bridging the Dream Scholarship for Graduate Students are:

 Shawnda Williams, pursuing Master of Public Health at Florida A&M University

 Marcela Dos Santos , pursuing Doctor of Nursing Practice at UC Irvine

 Angela Ji , pursuing a Master of Psychology at James Madison University

 Jacqueline Pauley , pursing a Master of Education at James Madison University

 Tia Briggs , pursing a Master of Science in Rehabilitation at Langston University

 Denerick Simpson , pursuing a Master of Public Administration at Savannah State University

 Ahmad Elhajia , pursuing a graduate degree in Allopathic Medicine at David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA

 Katherine Esser , pursuing a graduate degree in Medicine at University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences

 Fabiola Limon , pursuing a Master of Social Work at University of Massachusetts Global

 Tyreece Santana , pursuing a Master

of Mechanical Engineering at Columbia University

“Obtaining my master’s degree means so much to me, and I am grateful for receiving this scholarship,” said recipient Shawnda Williams, who is attending Florida A&M, a Historically Black College and University.

“I know with my degree in Public Health, I will be able to use my knowledge and skills to help people living with HIV/AIDS better manage their disease by connecting them to resources and educating communities on preventative measures.”

The Bridging the Dream Scholarship program is part of a three-year, $3 million commitment made by The Sallie Mae Fund to open doors of higher education to students from all backgrounds, including those from underserved or underrepresented communities. To date, 600 scholarships totaling $2M have been awarded to help students access and complete their education. The application window for the 2023-2024 scholarship opens on Feb 6, 2023 at 12 p.m. ET.

“Higher education is synonymous with opportunity and can be a gateway for students from all backgrounds to do great things and be agents of change,” said Nic Jafarieh, Executive Vice President, Sallie Mae “The recipients of our Bridging the Dream Scholarship for Graduate Students are diverse, future trailblazers aspiring to

create a better world. We’re proud to support their unique journey and excited to see what they’ll do next.”

The Bridging the Dream Scholarship for Graduate Students helps students from all backgrounds pursue an advanced degree with the goal of using that knowledge gained to create an impact in their communities,” said Dr. Harry L. Williams, President, and CEO of Thurgood Marshall College Fund “We are pleased to continue our partnership with The Sallie Mae Fund to provide more opportunities to diverse and deserving students.”

In addition to the Bridging the Dream Scholarship for Graduate Students, Sallie Mae offers a free online Graduate School Scholarship Search tool which provides access to 950,000 graduate school scholarships valued more than $1 billion. For more information visit SallieMae.com Sallie Mae (Nasdaq: SLM) believes education and life-long learning, in all forms, help people achieve great things. As the leader in private student lending, we provide financing and know-how to support access to college and offer products and resources to help customers make new goals and experiences, beyond college, happen. Learn more at SallieMae.com. Commonly known as Sallie Mae, SLM Corporation and its subsidiaries are not sponsored by or agencies of the United States of America.

Source: Sallie Mae

END NOTES

ISSA RAE HOSTS FIRESIDE CHAT WITH SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

In honor of Black History Month, Intuit (Nasdaq: INTU) QuickBooks and Mailchimp are hosting a live, virtual fireside chat to highlight the experiences and remarkable courage it takes for Black-owned entrepreneurs and small businesses to overcome the hurdles they encounter on their paths to success. In a conversation sponsored by Intuit QuickBooks + Mailchimp, the world’s leading small business technology platform, Issa Rae and Nate Burleson will host a live “Conversation about Courage” that will provide personal insights and practical advice for U.S. and Canadian Black-owned small businesses.

Economic and social inequalities continue to challenge Black businesses. Across the U.S. and Canada, new data from QuickBooks shows that more than 75% of black businesses believe that they are judged more critically than non-Black businesses. Additionally, more than 55% have been denied a business loan at least once — compared to 37% of non-Black business owners in the U.S.

Attendees will come away with insights into the entrepreneurial journey, a glimpse into the challenges that Black small business owners encounter, and a better understanding of the courage it takes to be triumphant in the face

of adversity.

Intuit is the global financial technology platform that powers prosperity for the people and communities we serve. With more than 100 million customers worldwide using TurboTax, Credit Karma, QuickBooks, and Mailchimp, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to prosper. We never stop working to find new, innovative ways to make that possible. Please visit us for the latest information about Intuit. our products and services, and find us on social.

Source: Intuit Inc.

OLISAE IS NIGERIA’S NEXT WAVE OF AFROBEATS ARTIST

With the recent championing of Afrobeats worldwide over the last several years, Nigeria is at the forefront of elevating Artists who continue to challenge the genre and expand its borders. The industry has seen cross border collaborations across pop, r&b, reggaeton, and dancehall to name a few. Olisae is an artist whose versatility allows him to be a new and expansive representative for Nigeria’s Afrobeats lineup of stars.

Having returned to the music scene hardcore in 2019, Olisae has developed a consistent output of singles that takes the listener on a variety of journeys from romantic and sexy to deep Amapiano club spins and uptempo dance vibes. Olisae is kicking off 2023 with two

strong collaborations with local Nigeria fan favorites Skales and Slowdog. 2023 will also see the release of a new line of merchandise that crosses over into full streetwear to match his style and fashion sense as a model who can carry a brand.

Musically, Olisae is becoming known for his adept blending of multiple languages in his tracks and finding influence the world over from his travels abroad. As an artist that hails from Anambra State, Olisaedozie Aniebonam, better known to his fans as Olisae, will be spending half the year immersed in the US market recording, performing, and creating content to further his fan base.

NEW WORLD SYMPHONY PRESENTS ‘I DREAM A WORLD’ (cont'd from p.9)

Orchestral Academy, prepares graduates of music programs for leadership roles in professional orchestras and ensembles. In the 35 years since its co-founding by Artistic Director Laureate Michael Tilson Thomas and Lin and Ted Arison, NWS has helped launch the careers of more than 1,200 alumni worldwide.

A laboratory for the way music is taught, presented ,and experienced, the New World Symphony consists of young musicians who are granted fellowships

lasting up to three years. The fellowship program offers in-depth exposure to traditional and modern repertoire, professional development training and personalized experiences working with leading guest conductors, soloists and visiting faculty. Relationships with these artists are extended through NWS’s extensive distance learning via the internet. NWS Fellows take advantage of the innovative performance facilities and state-of-the art practice and ensemble

rooms of the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center, the campus of the New World Symphony

NWS would like to recognize the following institutional partners: Knight Foundation and New World Symphony: Reimagining Classical Music in the Digital Age; Carnival Corporation is the Premier Sponsor of the New World Symphony; NWS concerts are presented with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs

and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; NWS concerts are presented with support of the City of Miami Beach, Cultural Affairs Program, Cultural Arts Council; Hitachi is a Technology Partner of the New World Symphony; Yamaha is the Official Piano of the New World Symphony; IDAGIO is the Official Audio Streaming Partner of the New World Symphony