New York Trend NYC: February 1 – 7, 2024 by Teresa WIlliams

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NEWMAYOR YORK TREND DAVID DINKINS, REP. CHARLES RANGEL, Serving New York City, Nassau & Suffolk Counties

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THE ALTERNATIVE VOLUMEPERSPECTIVE 26 ISSUE 40

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December 17, 2015 - December 23, 2015

VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

February 1st, 2024 - February 7th, 2024

CELEBRATING BL ACK HISTORY MONTH

Since 1989

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

N U L C A L L S FOR C H I L D TA X C R E D I T The Black Stars News 2015 Annual Awards Dinner honor T Owill D EMayor CREASE POVERTY David Dinkins, Rep. Charles

Too many families and children lifted 40% of children out of Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, R. have Donahue Peebles, of color struggled withBarbara poverty. CTC expansion primarily Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina benefited Black and Latino poverty for too long. An expanded Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen Child Tax Credit can lead them to families, as well as families with Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central economic the lowest incomes, who were Park stability. Five survivors of gross injustice on December 18 from 6:00pm – more likely to miss out on the Redlining, credit discrimination, 10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West total credit under prior law due lack of116th investment Street. in education to making too little income. The and affordable housing, and “Each honoree chosen for other recognition longstanding, has systemic demonstrated problems have limited economic exceptional leadership and vision in her or his profession opportunity forrespective families of color or endeavor and in some significant and created a persistent racial contributed wealthmeasure gap. Ashas a result, Blacktowards and creating a more just society in this Latinocountry,” childrensays areBlack muchStar more News likely than white children to founder and publisherlive Milton Allimadi. “Obviously much work in poverty. Expanding the Child needs to be done here Tax Credit (CTC) is a proven and around the world.”

method to reduce child poverty The galaeconomic starts at 6:00pm with a and improve mobility, cocktail hour to be followed by the particularly for families of color, dinner and awards ceremonies. There without workforce willreducing be musical entertainment by participation. opera singer Cassandra Douglas

Facts:  The most common way parents reported spending their monthly CTC payments was toward bills, food, groceries, and rent/ mortgage payments. While these expenses didn’t end for families in 2022, the CTC monthly

YEARS!

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, after just one month, and Black brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and Latino children experienced and “A Streetcar Named Desire” the largest percentage-point with a multi-ethnic cast to increases in poverty. Broadway. In 2016 they bring  Children fromwith all racial “Eclipsed” Oscarand Winner Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. ethnic groups would benefit

from the expansion of the CTC, Honorees, the so-called Central

David Dinkins

Charles Rangel

was a member of the New York City Council, representing the 40th council district in Brooklyn, succeeding her mother, Una S. T. Clarke. In the current 114th Congress Clarke serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee, responsible for consumer protection, food safety, energy development, public health, communications, the environment, and interstate and international commerce.

majority. She now leads The Transformative Justice Coalition. Arnwine was for 26 years executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law. Inez Barron, honoree, formerly a State Assembly member, is now a New York City council member and a champion of education for our youth.

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 Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is on investigative journalism, has a legendary radio talk show host been featured as a result of some if and executive producer, radio DJ, and from harmonica phenomenon its news scoops, on CNN, The New R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is poet, songwriter, music recording William Galison. David Dinkins is York Daily News, The New York aPhoto leading developer and founder of THE TEMPORARY artist and producer, rapper, writer Source: NUL.org honored for Lifetime Achievement Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest and community activist. He began — he EXPANSION, was New York City’s first CTC Content magazine. African American-owned real his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo African American mayor and also estate firm with $3.5 billion worth Past Black Star News honorees MADE POSSIBLE BY to the age 15. ForE over 30L years, he’s welcomed Nelson Mandela N A Tunder I O Ndevelopment A L U R B A N at L E A G U C A L S F O R E XPANDED of properties been a talk show host at WBLS and have included: Gil Noble (Like It city after his release in 1990. PRESIDENT BIDEN’S orCmanagement H I L D T A—Xhe was C R one E D I T T OWLIB L Iradio F T inFNew A M York I L I City. E S He O U T Is),O Rep. F PMaxine O V E Waters, R T Y Soledad Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored of the pioneering developerswho O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, AMERICAN RESCUE also has a Friday night radio talk for Lifetime Achievement, has helped turn around and revitalize Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), showhave on WBAI. of the CTC payments unfortunately and racial and ethnic disparities servedLIFTED in Congress40% since 1971. is PLAN, OF He previous the success once-blighted Anacostia Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founderin poverty rates would narrow. a recipient of The Bronze medal for provesneighborhood that lawmakers know how D.C. expired. in Washington, Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William CHILDREN OUT OF of World of Money, is a champion helping save soldiers behind enemyto eradicate A champion of African-American poverty—it is a policy  Families haven’t received Poverty among BlackEvers children Pollard (Medgar College), of financial literacy for youth-- she line during the Korean War. POVERTY economic empowerment Peebles’ is Herm Edwards (NY Jets), choice, not an inevitability. a monthly payment since would be cut in half, falling byNayaba contemplating a possible run for NYC teaches knowledge about handling Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam We urge Congress to include the December 2021. After and the planning. 10.3 percentage points, News), and La-Verna money, budgeting mayor in 2017. member ofCTC the expansion, US House of The temporary Fountain (Columbia University), full expansion of the CTC in the monthly white children would fall Dr. CTC Rudypayments Crew, honoree, is one ofrates for from New Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil madeRepresentatives possible by thPresident tax package they are currently ended, 3.7 million more by 3.3 percentage points. the nation’s leading educators. He’s York whose 9 Rescue district covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local rights lawyer, is a champion of Biden’s American Plan, children were living in poverty much of central Brooklyn. Before negotiating. 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic entering Congress in 2007, she Action Network), and many others. of The City University of New minority groups — the emerging

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

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February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

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PAGE 11 THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY

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If your business accepted Visa and/or Mastercard between 2004 - 2019, you’re now eligible to claim your share of a $5.5 billion Settlement. Claim your share now. Merchants (business owners) who accepted Visa and/or Mastercard at any time from January 1, 2004, to January 25, 2019, are eligible to claim their share of a $5.5 billion Settlement. Visa and Mastercard and their issuing banks (the “Defendants”) are alleged to have violated the law because they wrongfully inflated Interchange Fees. Defendants say they have done nothing wrong. They claim their business practices are legal. After years of appeals, the Settlement is now final, and Claim Forms are now being accepted. If you do not file a claim, you will not receive a Settlement Payment. Claim Forms are now being mailed to more than 15 million merchants. Even if you do not receive a Claim Form in the mail, you may still be eligible, and you should visit www.PaymentCardSettlement.com to get more information about the Settlement. The deadline to file a claim is May 31, 2024. You can file your claim online at the website. Or, if you prefer, you can get a paper Claim Form at the website or by calling 1-800-625-6440. Assistance with preparing your claim is available at no cost to you from the Class Administrator and Class Counsel. Submitting your claim online can take less than five minutes. STEP ONE: Scan the QR code to go to www.PaymentCardSettlement.com.

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February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 20th, 2024, 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 15th, 2024 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 20th day of February 2024 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 07th, 2024. 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 24, 2024 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 24, 2024 THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, New York

C O M M E M O R AT I V E C O I N S C E L E B R AT E H A R R I ET T U B M A N Admirers of HARRIET TUBMAN and numismatists alike can now buy coins commemorating the famed abolitionist and human rights activist issued by the U.S. Mint. The agency is offering a $5 gold coin, a $1 silver dollar and a clad halfdollar, featuring designs depicting three different eras in Tubman's life, including her historic role of transporting enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad. The coins can be purchased individually or as part of a set. "We hope this program will honor the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman and inspire others to learn more about this

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amazing woman," Ventris C. Gibson, director of the U.S. Mint, said in a statement. Gibson signed 250 Certificates of Authenticity for the 2024 Harriet Tubman Three-Coin Proof Set, which will be randomly inserted into unmarked sets. A one-month pre-sale period of the coins for a discounted price began Jan. 4 at noon Eastern time and will end Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. They can be purchased at www.usmint.gov or by calling the agency at (800) 872-6468. Sales will include a surcharge of $35 for each $5 gold coin; $10 for each

silver dollar; $5 for each half dollar; and $50 for each three-coin set. The proceeds will go to the National Underground Railroad Freedom

Front of $5 gold coin commemorating abolitionist Harriet Tubman. U.S. MINT

February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, and the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, New York.

Front of $1 silver coin showing Harriet Tubman. U.S. MINT

Obverse side of half dollar coin bearing the likeness of Harriet Tubman. U.S. MINT

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NE WS UNIVERSITY AWARDED $50 MIL EPA GRANT The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justicee at Texas Southern University was selected as one of the eleven “Grantmakers” under its $600 billion Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking (EJ TCGM) program. The program was created by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the largest investment in climate action in history. “I am proud to say Texas Southern University is the HBCU that served as the launching pad for my environmental justice career way back in 1979—before EJ had a name or initials. And today, 44 years later, TSU was selected to serve as a Regional Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaker,” said Dr. Robert D. Bullard, who is often referred to as the “father of environmental justice.” The Center will work closely with its community-based organization partner, Achieving Community Tasks Successfully (ACTS), led by Bridgette Murray, focused on engaging, educating, and empowering communities impacted by industrial sources of pollution. “ACTS is honored to serve as a partner for the Bullard Center. Our success as a community-based organization is a result of the mentorship of the HBCU-CBO Gulf Coast Equity Consortium and the Houston Data to Action Project, which provided both technical and financial assistance. It is our desire to assist other nonprofit organizations in the environmental justice space to lead mitigation efforts in their own communities. It is our belief this award will assist other communities to thrive in their desire

to improve their own quality of life and health,” said Murray, who is a native Houstonian. ACTS has been a long-time collaborative partner of the Bullard Center as a member of the HBCU-CBO Gulf Coast Equity Consortium and the Houston Data to Action Project. “Texas Southern University is proud to advance this critically important work of environmental and climate justice with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s support,” said interim president Dr. Mary Evans Sias. “This is another example of the Bullard Center’s continued leadership on these often overlooked issues. We look forward to the tangible difference that will be made in underserved communities as a result of the Thriving Communities initiative.” The Bullard Center will also work with the EPA Region 6 EJ Thriving Communities Technical Assistance (TCTAC), South Central Environmental Justice Resource Center at New Mexico State University, HBCU-CBO Consortia and the National Black Environmental Justice Network to maximize the impact of these combined environmental justice funds—and ensure the funds follow the need—directed to communities and organizations that historically have been left out and left behind. This new Grantmakers Program is designed to make it easier for small community-based organizations to access subgrant funding by reducing obstacles and barriers. “Our plan includes streamlining grant application and submission procedures, providing resources and technical assistance, improving the efficiency of the awards process, building in a more diverse pool of

reviewers, and adopting a transparent tracking and reporting system, with the goal of ensuring communities that have long faced underinvestment can access the benefits of the IRA,” says Bullard. The Grantmakers Program has tremendous potential to deliver on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative whose goal is to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened

by pollution. Communities will be able to apply to our Grantmakers Program for subgrants to fund a range of different environmental project activities, including (but not limited to) small local clean-ups, local emergency preparedness and disaster resiliency programs, environmental workforce development programs for local jobs reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fence-line air quality and asthma related projects, healthy homes programs, and projects addressing illegal dumping and a host of other environmental areas.

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February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

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BUSINESS Bloomberg T R A D I N G C H A L L E N G E F O R H B C U ’ S Bloomberg for Education and Bloomberg Human Resources have expanded the reach of this year’s Bloomberg and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Trading Challenge to new universities and shifted to evaluate

larger, diverse portfolio. We want to ensure students have a wellrounded understanding of market indices to be best prepared for future careers in finance.” Participating universities included

contribute to cultivating the success of its students. By providing additional resources, like the Bloomberg Terminal, University professors are able to further enrich their coursework with the same tools that are used by financial

said Dr. Inger M. Daniels-Hollar, Assistant Professor of Finance at FAMU. “Bloomberg access enables us to simulate for our students the experience of sitting on a real-life desk while they’re still in college — much like a law student might argue in a mock courtroom." Bloomberg for Education offers a suite of education technology products and services that immerse learners directly into the financial markets and provide research and analytics across multiple industries. Universities around the globe use Bloomberg to bring the real world of finance into the classroom, providing students with access to the same information platform used by leading decision makers in business, finance and government. For more information, visit: https:// www.bloomberg.com/professional/ product/education/

participant investment performance against a developed market (DM) index. The Bloomberg and HBCU Trading Challenge exercises the financial acumen of college participants through a virtual investment competition on the Bloomberg Terminal. Geared towards Black students in the US who are typically underrepresented in the finance industry, the challenge was created to help HBCU students build marketable skills and knowledge needed to compete for finance jobs and provide hands-on experience that they will use in their future careers. This year, students invested $1 million virtual US dollars across companies in the DM index in a closed network, with the assistance of university faculty and assigned Bloomberg mentors. The winner was decided based on the trade performance of participants, benchmarked against real DM indices on the Bloomberg Terminal. “The new focus on developed markets stocks builds on last year’s ESG-specific challenge to introduce another layer of difficulty and further replicate real world experiences,” said Emily Perrucci, Global Head of User Support at Bloomberg. “Fund managers often must consider ESG factors as part of managing a much

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Clark Atlanta University, Howard University, Hampton University, Morehouse College, Morgan State University, Spelman College and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). Jaeden Patterson, a Senior at FAMU was this year’s winner. “The advice I would give to future participants is to take advantage of your resources,” said Patterson. “The mentor that was provided through the challenge helped me navigate unfamiliar functionality on the Bloomberg Terminal. Additionally, I was able to take the Bloomberg ESG Certificate Course, which enabled me to identify ESG investment strategies and apply them to develop a profitable portfolio.”

professionals. “Florida A&M University School of Business and Industry (SBI) has a long legacy of training students to be capable and well-prepared young business professionals. Bloomberg plays a role in that training process,”

Bloomberg is a global leader in business and financial information, delivering trusted data, news, and insights that bring transparency, efficiency, and fairness to markets. The company helps connect influential communities across the global financial ecosystem via reliable technology solutions that enable our customers to make more informed decisions and foster better collaboration. For more information, visit https://www.bloomberg.com/ company or request a demo.

Students who participated in this year’s challenge were invited to Bloomberg’s headquarters in New York City. There, top-performing students had the opportunity to present their trading strategy to a panel of experts who offered feedback and insights on the students’ experience. Students who participate in the challenge also receive direct access to Bloomberg recruiters who provide professional development support around interviewing and resume creation. Bloomberg continues to build relationships with HBCUs and

February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T MEET THE AUTHOR EVENT ANNOUNCED Caribbean American author Deborah C. Mortimer will appear at A Different Booklist Bookstore in Toronto, Ontario on Saturday, February 24th, when she will present and read from her latest children’s book Summer Island. She will be joined by Caribbean Canadian illustrator, Ken Daley, with whom she collaborated to bring this book to life. Summer Island sends readers on a journey to the Caribbean as they travel alongside a young girl visiting her father’s birthplace for the first time. There she learns about her cultural heritage and makes new family connections guided by her wise and beloved Granny. U.S.-based Mortimer, published Summer Island and other children’s books under her Leap Forward Publishing imprint which is dedicated to developing and promoting books with a focus on diversity and representation. Said Mortimer, “Representation is not only important to ensure that children see themselves in the world, but so that all children see, learn about, and appreciate those

who are different from them." Previous titles by Deborah C. Mortimer include When You Give a Girl a Puppy…, which was even featured and read by Hollywood actor, Ryan Reynolds, on his streaming show, Bedtime Stories with Ryan; and Zorah and the Very Big Question, which takes kids on a journey of discovery with young Zorah as she explores future career options. Parents are invited to bring children to hear the author read, purchase books, and get their books signed by both the author and the illustrator. Authentic Caribbean food and beverages will be prepared and served by Bake ‘n Friends (@bakenfriends on Instagram), owned and operated by Trinidadian chef Dixie King. Attendees will have the opportunity to create art alongside Daley, as he shares his expertise and passion inspired by his Afro-Caribbean roots. Event deta il s: WHAT: Meet the Author & Illustrator WHEN: Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 2:00 PM WHERE: A Different Booklist

Bookstore, 779 Bathurst St, Toronto, Ontario CA Deborah C. Mortimer is a lawyer and former homeschool parent with a passion for storytelling. Understanding the importance of representation in children’s literature and the need for diversity, Deborah is driven by her vision of bringing stories that feature relatable, inspiring and diverse character is not only to the children in her life, but the children everywhere. Her next book Zorah the…Brave?, the second installment in the Zorah Questions Everything Series, will

be released in 2024. Discover more about Deborah at https://www. deborahcmortimer.com. Ken Daley is an award-winning artist who has exhibited his artwork in Canada, the U.S., and the Caribbean. Ken has also illustrated numerous children’s books including Granny’s Kitchen, Black Boy, Joseph’s Big Ride, and received an Américas Award Honor Book, and a Kirkus Best Picture Book for Auntie Luce’s Talking Paintings. He lives in Ontario, Canada. Learn more at www. kendaleyart.com.

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T “ H O L LY W O O D W E H AV E A P R O B L E M " “When (Hollywood) executives are looking for Black content, they’re either looking for Wakanda or Thug Life, with no in between. By ignoring the systemic racial inequities that plague the film and television business, Hollywood is leaving $10 billion annually on the table" - McKinsey & Company Study (2021). “So if the market tells us that this is not a value proposition for studios … it might be a value proposition for another entity” Filmmaker Ava Duvernay on securing non-studio financing($38M) of her latest film Origins. “It was like you were never here…” Blitz Bazawule, the director of “The Color Purple” in a recent television interview, referring to the studio's requirement that (Academy Award nominated, Golden Globe Award winner) Taraji P. Henson audition for her role in the movie. Taraji later expressed other troubling concerns including compensation and working conditions. The irony is Oprah Winfrey, the film’s producer and the most influential Black woman in film/tv was hamstrung in assisting Taraji by the same system. The cruelest irony… The movie is about a young Black Woman, struggling to overcome oppression,

to strong acceptance and reviews, the powers-that-be intervened, cutting almost 30 minutes out of the 2-hr film, while changing the composer and soundtrack. This intervention delayed the film’s release by over 3 years.

while seeking fulfillment. The old tired mantra, “black content doesn’t travel overseas” is bull*hit according to filmmaker Pierre Bagley who directed Taraji P. Henson, over 10 years ago, in what many considered some of her best work, in her portrayal of legendary coach Catana Starks in the film “From The Rough.” The first woman to coach a division I Men’s Golf team to a PGA tournament win. This true story

happened at the HBCU (Historically Black College & University), Tennessee State University. The irony is that Coach Starks did this by recruiting internationally, bringing players from all over the world into an environment very culturally different from their own. The film also starred (the late) Michael Clarke Duncan, Tom Felton (Harry Potter) and Justin Chon (Twilight). True to Hollywood fashion, after the film was being screened and promoted nationally

P i erre B agl ey

African Americans have proven their profound impact on every segment of American culture from social justice, cuisine, sports, art, fashion, literature and music, it is woven into the fabric of

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February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T 2024 BLACK HISTORY THEME:

A F R I C A N A M E R I C A N S A N D T H E Arts

African American art is infused with African, Caribbean, and the Black American lived experiences. In the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression, the African American influence has been paramount. African American artists have used art to preserve history and community memory as well as for empowerment. Artistic and cultural movements such as the New Negro, Black Arts, Black Renaissance, hip-hop, and Afrofuturism, have been led by people of African descent and set the standard for popular trends around the world. In 2024, we examine the varied history and life of African American arts and artisans.

without the influences from the broader Black world, especially the Negritude movement and the writings of Frantz Fanon. In 1973, in the Bronx, New York Black musicians (i.e. DJ Kool Herc and Coke La Rock) started a new genre of music called hip-hop, which comprises five foundational elements (DJing, MCing, Graffiti, Break Dancing and Beat Boxing). Hip-hop performers also used technological equipment such as turntables, synthesizers, drum machines, and samplers to make their songs. Since then hip-hop has continued to be a pivotal force in political, social, and cultural spaces and was a medium where issues such as racial violence in the inner city, sexism, economic disinvestment and others took the forefront.

For centuries Western intellectuals denied or minimized the contributions of people of African descent to the arts as well as history, even as their artistry in many genres was mimicked and/ or stolen. However, we can still see the unbroken chain of Black art production from antiquity to the present, from Egypt across Africa, from Europe to the New World. Prior to the American Revolution, enslaved Africans of the Lowcountry began their more than a 300-year tradition of making sweetgrass baskets, revealing their visual artistry via craft. The suffering of those in bondage gave birth to the spirituals, the nation’s first contribution to music. Blues musicians such as Robert Johnson, McKinley ‘Muddy Waters’ Morganfield and Riley “BB” B. King created and nurtured a style of music that became the bedrock for gospel, soul, and other still popular (and evolving) forms of music. Black contributions to literature include works by poets like Phillis Wheatley, essays, autobiographies, and novels by writers such as David Walker and Maria Stewart. Black aesthetics have also been manifested through sculptors like Edmonia Lewis and painters like Henry O. Tanner. In the 1920s and 30s, the rise of the Black Renaissance and New Negro Movement brought the Black Arts to an international stage. Members of

The term Afrofuturism was used approximately 30 years ago in an effort to define cultural and artistic productions (music, literature, visual arts, etc.) that imagine a future for Black people without oppressive systems, and examines how Black history and knowledge intersects with technology and science. Afrofuturist elements can be found in the music of Sun Ra, Rashan Roland Kirk, Janelle Monáe and Jimi Hendrix. Other examples include sci-fi writer Octavia Butler’s novels, Marvel film Black Panther, and artists such as British-Liberian painter Lina Iris Viktor, Kenyan-born sculptor Wangechi Mutu, and Caribbean writers and artists such as Nalo Hopkinson, and Grace Jones.

the armed forces, such as James Reese Europe, and artists such as Langston Hughes, Josephine Baker and Lois Mailou Jones brought Black culture and Black American aesthetics internationally, and Black culture began its ascent to becoming a dominant cultural movement to the world. In addition to the Harlem Renaissance, today we recognize that cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New Orleans also were home to many Black artists.

The 1960s continued this thread through the cultural evolution known as the Black Arts Movement, where artists covered issues such as pride in one's heritage and established art galleries and museum exhibitions to show their own work, as well as publications such as Black Art. This period brought us artists such as Alvin Ailey, Judith Jamison, Amiri Baraka, Nikki Giovanni and Sonia Sanchez. The movement would not have been as impactful

In celebrating the entire history of African Americans and the arts, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) puts into the national spotlight the richness of the past and present with an eye towards what the rest of the twentyfirst century will bring. ASALH dedicates its 98th Annual Black History Theme to African Americans and the arts. Source: Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)

" H O L LY W O O D W E H AV E A P R O B L E M " America and the world, yet Hollywood continues to view Black America as a “niche market.” Today, Pierre Bagley, a respected writer, producer/director, and David Dinerstein, an Academy Award winning producer (Summer of Soul)– are developing the Bluford High TV series and Hollywood is not sure. Bluford has a massive and avid fan base, it disrupted the Young Adult market by rejecting the cynical, baseless notion that “black kids don’t read.” All the main characters are Black

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and Brown and they are complex and multifaceted, their stories are realistic and edgy but also uplifting. 23 titles have sales of more than 12 million copies with readers in all 50 states and boasting a readership of more than 50 million. Bluford has achieved historic success in YA fiction (U.S. sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson is an avid fan). Taraji P. Henson has recently made headlines about the inequality in pay but this goes much deeper. It’s about who’s in control of the stories and

voices of people of color, and who gets to decide on how people of color are portrayed. Both Mr. Bagley and Mr. Dinerstein has been developing this project for over 6 years and have bluntly asked Hollywood the simple question: Why can’t this bright, passionate audience of millions have a TV/film series based on the books they read growing up? Why won’t you recognize the sustained, historically successful performance of urban focused content? These

February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

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questions and more are being posed by Bluford’s massive, loyal and highly engaged social media base and they are making noise. Mr. Bagley says - “It is counterproductive and very frustrating to continue investing our creative and entrepreneurial energies trying to reform an industry that seems incapable of change. Time better spent, creating the next hit TV series or movie franchise with alternate methods of financing and distribution.”

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HIGHLIGHT S CONNECTICUT AWARDED MLS NEXT PRO EXPANSION TEAM In a groundbreaking moment for the soccer fans of Connecticut, MLS NEXT Pro has awarded Connecticut Sports Group (CTSG) the fifth independent MLS NEXT Pro expansion team - Connecticut United Football Club (CT United FC). CT United FC is set to join MLS NEXT Pro which includes 27 MLS owned clubs and four recently announced independent clubs. The team plans to play in a new waterfront soccer stadium in Connecticut’s largest city, Bridgeport. "As CT United FC embarks on its MLS NEXT Pro journey, I want to extend deep gratitude to the incredible fans, community leaders, and government officials who have embraced our vision. I am confident that, united, Connecticut can compete against anyone,” said André Swanston, Founding Partner of CTSG. “We are committed to building the infrastructure – from a free youth academy to a state-of-the-art stadium needed to propel Connecticut to the highest levels of soccer.” Connecticut holds the distinction as the largest media market in the country without a sports team in MLS, NFL, NBA, MLB or NHL. Geographically positioned at the convergence of the NYC tristate and New England, Connecticut has firmly established itself as a vibrant hub for soccer. Connecticut is consistently among the leading markets for soccer TV viewership, with one of the highest engagement levels of any market in America without an MLS team. Connecticut fans, who already spend $1.1 billion a year on sports tickets, merchandise and subscriptions (13% more per fan than the average American) will soon have a team of their own. “André has a proven track record of building transformational companies and valuing community development," said Charles Altchek, President of MLS NEXT Pro. “His leadership, entrepreneurship, and determination will be key to the success of the Club, and we are thrilled to partner with André, his wife Michelle, and the CTSG team. Today’s announcement marks

a historic milestone as André takes the helm as one of our youngest club owners, breaking barriers as one of only a few Black principal owners in US sports history.” The City of Bridgeport’s Planning and Zoning Commission granted Connecticut Sports Group unanimous approval to develop a waterfront soccer stadium and mixed-use destination. This transformative project encompasses a mix of residences, retail and dining space, community greens, a river walk, and a hotel. The revitalization of this dormant property represents a significant investment in economic development for Bridgeport and the entire state. According to the Connecticut Center for Economic Analysis at the University of Connecticut, this development is expected to generate $4 billion in economic impact over the next 25 years, and nearly $1 billion in additional state and local tax revenue. Average annual employment will increase by over 1,000 fulltime jobs over this period. "Bridgeport is in the midst of a renaissance, rebranding from an industrial city to now the capital of arts and entertainment of Connecticut. I am proud to announce that MLS NEXT Pro will join that landscape in providing entertainment opportunities for Bridgeport residents and the region at large. I also applaud the major investments that Mr. Swanston has made in Bridgeport and his vision to bring professional soccer to our city," stated Mayor Joseph Ganim.

said Governor Ned Lamont. Founded in 2024 and owned by Connecticut Sports Group, Connecticut United Football Club (CT United FC) is the fifth independent professional men’s soccer club in MLS NEXT Pro. CT United FC is targeting a 2025 launch and will call a new state-of-the-art stadium in Bridgeport its home. CT United FC embodies the indomitable spirit of our state, carrying forward Connecticut's rich tradition of sports excellence. For updates and more information, visit www.ctunited. com or follow us on social media: @ctunited on X and TikTok, @ctutdfc on Instagram. Connecticut Sports Group’s (CTSG) vision is to create unforgettable experiences that inspire communities. We will own and operate professional sports franchises and state-of-the-art venues, utilizing cutting-edge technology and data to deliver superior service. Through our innovative approach and unwavering commitment to excellence, we aim to revolutionize the sports and entertainment industry and bring diverse communities together. Launched in 2022 by Major League Soccer, MLS NEXT Pro is a professional men’s soccer league in the United States and Canada that completes the pro player

pathway from MLS NEXT to MLS first teams. MLS NEXT Pro continues to grow the game through innovation and diversity, bringing professional soccer to new communities and creating opportunities both on and off the field. MLS NEXT Pro will celebrate its third season in 2024 with 29 teams, 27 MLS-affiliated and two independent, Carolina Core FC and Chattanooga FC. Additional MLS-affiliated and independent clubs will join in the years ahead, including Cleveland, Jacksonville Armada FC and Connecticut United FC. The majority of MLS NEXT Pro’s matches are broadcast on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV as part of the groundbreaking partnership between Apple and MLS. For more information about MLS NEXT Pro, visit mlsnextpro.com. Photo: From left to right - Brook Gardiner, SVP and General Counsel, MLS NEXT Pro, Sola Winley, EVP Office of the Commissioner and Chief DEI Officer, André Swanston, Founding Partner, Connecticut Sports Group, Michelle Swanston, Partner, Connecticut Sports Group, Ali Curtis, SVP of Competition & Operations, MLS NEXT Pro, Charles Altchek, President, MLS NEXT Pro & EVP, MLS

"The arrival of an MLS NEXT Pro expansion team to Connecticut will be a tremendous opportunity to foster talent, invigorate the economy, and showcase our state on the national stage,” said Rep. Jim Himes. “Local sports have a unique ability to bring together a community, and I look forward to cheering on CT United FC as they represent the great state of Connecticut!” “Bringing an MLS NEXT Pro expansion team to the state of Connecticut is a tremendous opportunity to ignite the spirit of our communities, foster local talent, and showcase our state on the national stage,”

BLACK HISTORY MONTH RECEPTION PLANNED Tampa Bay History Center is proud to announce the third annual Black History Month Reception, an evening of inspiration, recognition, and cultural celebration, set to take place on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. The event will be hosted at the Tampa Bay History Center, located at 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for the reception. This year’s reception is honored to feature distinguished guest speaker Senator Arthenia Joyner, a trailblazing leader whose contributions have significantly impacted the course of history. Senator Joyner will share her insights and experiences, adding a powerful dimension to the evening’s program. The Tampa Housing Authority proudly supports this event as the gold sponsor, exemplifying its commitment to fostering a community that values and preserves Black history. Civil rights legend Reverend Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr., a Tampa native, will join Senator Joyner on the program. Reverend LaFayette will present the annual award named in his honor, recognizing an individual who has played a pivotal role

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in preserving and promoting Black history throughout the years. Guests will have the unique opportunity to have Reverend LaFayette autograph his book, In Peace and Freedom, at the reception. For the first time, attendees will experience Travails and Triumphs, a new permanent exhibit covering 500 years of local Black history, providing a captivating journey through historical milestones. Additionally, the event will feature an African fashion show with the latest styles and colors from Ghana and Nigeria, courtesy of Tampa’s African Extravaganza. Guests are welcome to wear optional African attire. In a special initiative, the Tampa Bay History Center will present a donation to a Hillsborough County elementary school with the most outstanding Thurgood Marshall History Club for the 2023-2024 school term. This contribution aims to support and encourage the next generation of leaders and historians. Tickets for the third annual Black History Month Reception are priced at $75 and can be purchased online at www. tampabayhistorycenter.org. The ticket price includes valet parking for attendees’

February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

convenience. Join us on February 23, 2024, as we come together to celebrate the Tampa Bay area’s Black history, honor remarkable individuals, and create lasting memories at the Tampa Bay History Center’s third annual Black History Month Reception. Located on Tampa’s Water Street, the Tampa Bay History Center includes three floors of permanent and temporary exhibition space focusing on 12,000 years of Florida’s history and culture. A Smithsonian Affiliate museum accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the History Center includes the Touchton Map Library and Florida Center for Cartographic Education, and the Witt Research Center, and is home to the Columbia Cafe. One of Tampa’s premier cultural venues, the History Center’s handson, interactive exhibits and theaters provide an entertaining and educational experience for visitors of all ages. For more information, visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

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HE ALTH US DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AWARDS BREASTFEEDING ASSOCIATION Black Mothers’ Breastfeeding Association (BMBFA) have been named joint recipients of an up to four-year, $4.8 million grant funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH). Triple Crown: Babies Win. Families Thrive. Communities Transformed! will see the two organizations jointly champion improved Black maternal health outcomes through community-based outreach as part of the Healthy Families Community-based Perinatal Health Initiative (COPHI). Ten other organizations were also awarded the grant which totaled $13.2 million for the grant period’s first year. Designed with the vitality of Detroit in mind, Triple Crown: Babies Win. Families Thrive. Communities Transformed! is a multi-pronged project that will directly confront racial inequities in healthcare by supporting infrastructural change within policy, expanding access to community-based maternal support services (COMSS) including the training of 180 community-based doulas, community health workers and breastfeeding peer counselors, and by cultivating an integrative approach that connects Detroit’s healthcare systems with holistic birth resources for Black families. Through 2027, Triple Crown will build a unified network of

advocacy for expectant and postpartum people, wholly rooted in the provision of continuous, equitable care across the spectrum of community midwifery services, fatherhood initiatives, and

more, with a specialized focus on perinatal mental health. According to March of Dimes, 1 in 7 women suffers from postpartum depression. Statistically, Black birthing people are more prone to experience the condition and less likely to receive treatment. Kiddada Green, Founding

Executive Director of Black Mothers’ Breastfeeding Association and Triple Crown Co-PI, says the grant will make way for positive change in Detroit’s maternal-child-health landscape. “We are thankful to have received this grant, enabling us to further our mission,” said Green. “The Triple Crown initiative embodies a collaborative approach that recognizes the importance of addressing social determinants of health and fostering a supportive environment for pregnant and postpartum individuals. By uniting trusted stakeholders, we aim to uplift Detroit’s families, making a lasting impact on maternal and infant health outcomes in the Detroit Community.” Local Detroit healthcare partners will also be involved with the execution of Triple Crown: Babies Win. Families Thrive. Communities Transformed!, allowing for strategic collaboration and well-rounded community input. The University of Michigan Child Health Evaluation and Research Center (CHEAR) will evaluate the initiative. Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom, Senior Vice President of Community Health Equity, Chief Wellness & Diversity Officer with Henry Ford Health and Triple Crown Co-PI, believes the collective effort invested in the project rings true to the Motor City’s valiant spirit.

“Henry Ford Health, in collaboration with our esteemed partners, is committed to empowering our community allies and nurturing a collective capacity that resonates with the inherent strength of Detroit itself,” said Wisdom. “Together, we are dedicated to surmounting disparities and championing the cause to diminish racial inequities in maternal and child health. Detroit, with its resilience and spirit, is not merely our home; it is the canvas upon which Henry Ford Health, our partners, and the families we serve collectively and artistically craft a healthier, more equitable future for all.” Triple Crown is anticipated to reach 3,600 pregnant and postpartum Black birthing people and their families by August 2027. To learn more about the project, visit hhs.gov. Note: This project is supported by the Office of Minority Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a 2023 financial assistance award totaling $1,522,647 with 82% funded by OMH/ OASH/HHS and $272,647 and 18% funded by non-government source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, OMH/OASH/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

HIV/AIDS IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY This is a time to raise awareness and reflect on the impact of the HIV/ AIDS virus across the nation. Despite significant gains in case reduction, African Americans continue to account for a higher proportion of new HIV diagnoses. Black PR Wire's Thrivin' in Color podcast featured Grazell Howard, Board Chair of the Black Aids Institute (BAI), in an enlightening discussion on HIV/AIDS and the interconnected elements that make managing the disease in the Black community so difficult.

in Color on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Thrivin’ In Color is a podcast produced by Black PR Wire, featuring interviews

Black PR Wire is the nation’s first and largest online Black newswire distribution company and is a powerful leader in effective news delivery services. With a comprehensive database and listing of over 1,200 Black (African American, Caribbean and Haitian) organizations and media, Black PR Wire posts and distributes print, audio, video, and creative news and information to Black media, influencers, faith-based groups and prominent community organizations throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. Services can be purchased online anytime, anywhere 24/7; or by simply calling our newsroom at 1-877-BLACKPR.

In this episode, Grazell has an eyeopening conversation with podcast host Camry Brown about the work being done at the Black Aids Institute (BAI) and measures that may be implemented among the Black community to reduce the number of African Americans living with HIV/AIDS. She also explores the rise in HIV infections among younger people. “Grazell made some very valid points during this conversation,” said Camry. “When listeners tune into this episode, I hope they feel the need to take action in bettering our community.”

Have some news to share? Or want to know what’s happening in your community? Then connect with Black PR Wire, like, share and visit us @BlackPRWire, and make Black PR Wire your online source for Black News! For more information on Black PR Wire and Thrivin’ in Color, call 1-877-BLACKPR or visit the website at blackprwire.com.

The Black AIDS Institute (BAI) is dedicated to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the Black community. BAI is the only uniquely and unapologetically Black HIV think and do tank in America. Black PR Wire’s Thrivin’ in Color podcast is an exceptional platform for Black and Brown leaders to educate and empower the Black community. Tune in to Thrivin’

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with remarkable sistas and brothas from across the country who are doing extraordinary things in today’s society. Thrivin’ In Color takes us behind the scenes of their world, where we meet with them and pick up some golden nuggets for success. Thrivin’ In Color podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all of your favorite podcast services.

February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

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END NO TE S S U P E R B O W L S O U L F U L C E L E B R AT I O N 2 5 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y CBS presents THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY, (previously known as the “Super Bowl Gospel Celebration”), to air Saturday, Feb. 10 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ (live for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on demand on Pluto TV and cbs. com the day after the special airs)*. Cedric the Entertainer

energy, laughter and soul to this momentous occasion!”

and Tichina Arnold of CBS’ THE NEIGHBORHOOD are confirmed to host.

Honorees and performers will be announced at a later date.

“I’m thrilled to return to the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration stage in Vegas as co-host of the 25th anniversary broadcast on CBS with my dear friend and THE NEIGHBORHOOD co-star Tichina Arnold,” said Cedric the Entertainer. “A huge congratulations to Melanie Few for creating this amazing celebration of music, faith and football.” “Co-hosting the 25th anniversary Super Bowl Soulful Celebration with Cedric the Entertainer is a true highlight for me. Melanie Few’s achievement in hitting this incredible milestone is a testament to her dedication and the event’s cultural impact,” said Tichina Arnold. “I’m thrilled to be part of this historic event, and Cedric and I are geared up to bring our

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The one-hour music special, in partnership with the NFL, tapes Wednesday, Feb. 7, at the Pearl Theater at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, in advance of Super Bowl LVIII, airing Sunday, Feb. 11 on CBS. Commemorating its silver anniversary this year, the concert event brings an inspiring blend of music and football to a broadcast television audience.

For a quarter-century THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY has captured the hearts of millions through the shared love of music, faith and the exhilaration of football. Bridging cultures and igniting inspiration, the Super Bowl LVIII sanctioned special brings together NFL players with award-winning artists and acclaimed musicians from diverse genres onto a single stage. The result is an unforgettable evening that transcends boundaries and remains the sole multicultural and inspirational program sanctioned by the NFL during the electrifying Super Bowl week.

the past 25 years,” said Arthur McAfee, NFL senior vice president for football operations. “We are proud of this storied tradition and look forward to bringing yet another year of joy and inspiration through music to CBS audiences.” “We’ve come an incredible distance from our humble gospel brunch beginnings in Miami. This event has been a labor of unwavering love and dedication, and it’s an immense honor that

Joining THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY production team is Grammy-nominated artist Adam Blackstone, who serves as music director. The special is executive produced by Melanie Few and Valarie Benning Thompson serves as producer. Tickets for THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY are on sale now and available to the public via Ticketmaster.

our 25th anniversary will debut on a major broadcast network like CBS,” said Melanie Few, founder of The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration. “It’s a privilege to collaborate with the NFL for 25 years and counting, creating an event that celebrates the powerful intersection of football, music and inspiration.”

com. Additionally, to mark this special occasion, exclusive commemorative 25th anniversary limited-edition merchandise is available via the event’s official website SuperBowlSoulful.com or on-site at the special taping in Las Vegas, allowing attendees to take home a piece of this historic celebration.

“As a multicultural and multifaceted celebration of togetherness, the Soulful Celebration has been an integral part of the Super Bowl’s DNA for

February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024

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If you are anywhere in your journey with substance use disorder,

I want you to stop, look around and open your heart. Revel in the abundance of your existence. See how small substance use disorder can be when sat next to all that you are or ever could be. Fill your existence with beauty, purpose and a life of service. And your substance use disorder— your history of addiction, the things you may have done that you are not proud of—will one day be small enough to deal with while allowing you space to live this life of joy. Hold on. We are not the sum of our scars but rather a beautiful mosaic of the life they hold together. —Joseph Washington, DC In recovery from substance use disorder

Learn how substance use recovery can

StartWithHope.com

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February 1, 2024 - February 7, 2024