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■ VOLUME 56 • ISSUE 33

Working To Avoid A Shutdown

Congress Inches Close to Deal T

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Following weeks of negotiations and just before Congress reconvened from its holiday recess, key Senate and House members announced their consensus on setting the total spending at nearly $1.66 trillion. The deal aligns with the agreement struck last year between President Joe Biden and then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a deal that faced strong opposition from conservative factions and led to McCarthy’s ouster by MAGA Republicans.

The agreement includes a boost in Pentagon spending to $886.3 billion while keeping nondefense funding unchanged at $772.7 billion. The figure incorporates an additional $69 billion agreed upon through an informal arrangement between McCarthy and the White House. As a compromise, lawmakers would accelerate $10 billion in cuts to I.R.S. enforcement and reclaim $6 billion in unspent COVID funds and other emergency allocations. The agreed framework does not include the additional $14 billion requested by Senate

appropriators from Republican and Democratic sides for increased domestic and military spending.

“By securing the $772.7 billion for nondefense discretionary funding, we can protect key domestic priorities like veterans’ benefits, health care, and nutrition assistance from the draconian cuts sought by right-wing extremists,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a joint statement.

Describing it as a “favorable arrangement for Democrats and the nation,” Schumer and Jeffries, stressed the necessity for a bipartisan approach in Congress to “prevent an expensive and disruptive shutdown.”

In a communication to his GOP colleagues, House Speaker Mike Johnson highlighted the Republicans’ achievement in securing spending reductions, particularly the additional money from the I.R.S. He argued that the outcome translates to tangible savings for American taxpayers and genuine reductions in the federal bureaucracy. continued on page 15

THIS WEEK IN BLACK HISTORY: JAN 16 1981 “Once you start thinking of one life as different from a thousand lives, you’ve lost it all” – William Beverly Carter, the first Ambassador-at-Large and second African

American to be appointed by three Presidents, retires and is awarded the State Department’s highest award for a civilian.

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he Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service is a defining moment each year when Americans across the country step up to make communities more equitable and take action to create the Beloved Community of Dr. King’s dream. While Dr. King believed the Beloved Community was possible, he acknowledged and fought for systemic change.

His example is our call to action.

MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. For nearly 30 years, the MLK Day of Service has grown, and its impact has increased as

more Americans embraced the idea that citizenship involves taking an active role in improving communities. Individuals and organizations are invited to: • Engage with community and create constructive action.

• Act on Dr. King’s legacy of social justice and equity.

• Recommit by volunteering to serve others. Clean up a public space, mentor a young person, or help those who are food insecure.

The MLK Day of Service is Monday, Jan. 15. Nationwide, people will come together to build a Beloved Community through unity, service, and transformation and to honor Dr. King’s legacy by working toward a more just and equitable society, where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of their race, ability, religion, or background.

By participating in service projects communities can bridge divides, heal wounds, and create lasting change that will bring key benefits for years to come.

Homelessness Surges

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has released its 2023 Annual Homeless Assessment Report, revealing a distressing 12 percent surge in homelessness since 2022. The report, encompassing the Housing Inventory Count, paints a bleak picture of the current state of homelessness, with a staggering 653,104 individuals experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2023 – the highest since the national reporting on the Point-in-Time count began in 2007.

Of significant concern is the disproportionate impact on Black communities, constituting nearly 4 in 10 of those experiencing homelessness. Despite comprising just 13 percent of the total U.S. population, individuals identifying as Black accounted for 37 percent of the homeless population.

Equally alarming is the plight of the Latino community, as almost one-third of people experiencing homelessness identified as Hispanic or Latino. The number of homeless individuals in this demographic surged by 28 percent between 2022 and 2023, contributing to 55 percent of the total increase in homelessness during this period.

“Our society is selective on who is worthy enough to receive sympathy and assistance: Black or White, sober, or addicted, mother or father, married or single.

We choose according to personal politics who is worthy of stability, who doesn’t deserve support, and when it is acceptable for someone to be without shelter,” said author, poet, and blogger Archuleta Chisolm, who wrote for BlackGirlNerds.com. continued on page 19

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2 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

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WHO: Nearly 10K Global Deaths In December COVID Related; Signal Deepening Health Crisis

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a staggering total of nearly 10,000 global deaths in December, raising alarm bells about a worsening worldwide health crisis stemming from the continued threat of COVID-19. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also noted pressing humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan, and Ethiopia that exacerbates the ongoing challenges related to COVID-19.

While COVID-19 is no longer classified as a global health emergency, the virus remains a formidable threat, Ghebreyeus warned. He said newer cases, driven by holiday gatherings and the prevalence of the JN.1 variant, led to a 42 percent increase in hospitalizations and a 62 percent rise in ICU admissions.

Ghebreyeus urged governments to maintain surveillance and sequencing and ensure access to tests, treatments, and vaccines. He also noted other emergencies the WHO is responding to, including in Gaza, Ukraine, Ethiopia and Sudan.

Ghebreyesus called it “indescribable” that “this Sunday marks the 100th day of the conflict in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory.”

He said Gaza continues to face an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe to go along with rising health concerns borne out from the pandemic. The conflict has dis-

placed nearly 90 percent of Gaza’s 1.9 million residents, who continue to endure “excruciating conditions with long queues for limited water and nutritionally inadequate bread,” the director general lamented.

He said only 15 hospitals are partially operational, and the absence of clean water and sanitation creates a breeding ground for diseases.

WHO’s humanitarian aid efforts have encountered “insurmountable challenges” due to intense bombardment, movement restrictions, fuel shortages, and communication breakdowns, Ghebreyeus stated.

“People are standing in line for hours for a small amount of water, which may not be clean, or bread, which alone is not sufficiently nutritious,” he asserted. “The lack of clean water and sanitation and overcrowded living conditions are creating the ideal environment for diseases to spread. We have the supplies, the teams, and the plans in place. What we don’t have is access.”

Further, the director general stressed the need for the release of hostages and an imperative for all parties to uphold international humanitarian law, ensuring healthcare protection. He also sounded an alarm about the ongoing situation in Sudan, a nation that’s grappling with nine months of conflict where there’s escalating violence and mass displacement.

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WHO DirectorGeneral Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus Ghebreyeus said Sudan residents have also experienced the rampant spread of diseases, including cholera. The WHO temporarily suspended operations in Al-Gezira due to security concerns, disrupting the annual harvest and heightening the risk of food insecurity. Even before the conflict, Ghebreyeus said Sudan faced food shortages, intensifying the crisis for vulnerable groups, particularly children under five and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Meanwhile, in Ethiopia, the north-western region of Amhara is in the grip of a severe health crisis due to ongoing conflict since April 2023, he said. Communication challenges, damaged health facilities, and restricted movement impede humanitarian assistance. Conflict, drought, and displacement exacerbate hunger and disease outbreaks, with cholera,

malaria, measles, leishmaniasis, and dengue spreading. Urgent access to affected areas is crucial, the director general affirmed.

Finally, Ghebreyeus insisted that just as governments and individuals take precautions against other diseases, “we must all continue to take precautions against COVID-19.”

The WHO plans to release its Health Emergency Appeal for 2024, outlining how much there’s a need to protect the health of the most vulnerable people in 41 emergencies globally.

“In 2024, we aim to reach almost 90 million people with lifesaving support,” Ghebreyeus declared.

“The coming year will be a test for humanity; a test of whether we give into division, suspicion and narrow nationalism, or whether we are able to rise above our differences and seek the common good.”

Dems Allocate $35M For Outreach But Overlook Black Press In Bid For Diverse Voter Support

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA In what the Party is calling a bid to secure control of the U.S. House in the upcoming November elections, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) has announced a $35 million investment in a comprehensive outreach initiative targeting Latino, Black, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian voters. “Power the People” aims to persuade, organize, welcome, educate, and reach voters from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

Despite the significant allocation, a notable omission from the Democratic strategy is the exclusion of the Black Press of America, a move that continues to raise eyebrows given the pressing need to engage African American voters effectively. The Democratic Party, including the DCCC, the Democratic National Committee, and the Biden-Harris re-election campaign, has thus far ignored criticism for overlooking the influential Black Press.

While the DCCC revealed that 2024 spending surpassed the $30 million expended on these voter groups in the 2022 midterm elections, concerns persist over exclud-

ing the Black Press from this financial commitment. Critics argue that the omission is particularly striking during what is widely acknowledged as modern history’s most crucial and transformative election.

During Biden’s 2020 campaign, he turned to the Black Press when it appeared that Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and even New York billionaire Michael Bloomberg’s campaigns were gaining steam. In fact, before arriving in South Carolina, Sanders who had just romped in Nevada, held 45 delegates while Texas Democrat Pete Buttigieg was

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second with 26, and Biden had claimed just 15.

In Charleston, Biden met with a conglomerate of publishers from the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), the trade association of America’s 250 Black-owned newspapers and media companies.

A broadcast interview led by NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. was followed by a national news article about the sit-down that all went viral. And, after the endorsement of South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn, Biden solidified the vital Black vote and

dusted his competition all the way to the White House.

Missayr Boker, DCCC Deputy Executive Director for Campaigns, defended the “Power the People” initiative, stating that it honors the commitment to a multiethnic coalition crucial for a robust democracy.

The initiative focuses on persuading and mobilizing Latino, Black, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian voters to counteract what the DCCC perceives as efforts by extremist Republicans to suppress the votes of people of color.

The DCCC said its approach includes conducting in-depth research, creating multilingual media content, organizing with local leaders, and countering disinformation targeting specific communities.

However, the absence of collaboration with the Black Press of America remains a point of contention.

In response to criticisms, José Muñoz, a DCCC spokesperson, emphasized the party’s commitment to “smart, targeted outreach,” which he claims recognizes the nuances not only between different ethnic groups but also within various regions and districts.

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Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

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3 Years After Jan. 6 Attack On Capitol: Investigations And Prosecutions Mount

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA The United States Attorney’s Office is marking the third anniversary of the unprecedented attack on the U.S. Capitol, which shook the nation and much of the world when supporters of the twice-impeached and now four-times indicted former President Donald Trump stormed the building and disrupted a joint session of Congress where members were attempting to affirm the results of the 2020 presidential election.

“In the wake of this historic event, the U.S. government has been tirelessly working to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the breach,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said in a release.

In October 2022, officials pegged the approximate losses resulting from the Capitol siege at a staggering $2.8 million. The sum accounts for damages to the Capitol building and grounds, both inside and outside, along with costs incurred by the U.S. Capitol Police.

“Under the continued leadership of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the

FBI’s Washington Field Office, the investigation has progressed at an unprecedented speed and scale,” officials declared, adding that the Department of Justice remains steadfast in its commitment to holding those who committed crimes on January 6, 2021, accountable.

In an overview released on Friday, January 5, the Justice Department noted that more than 1,265 defendants from almost all 50 states and the District of Columbia have faced criminal charges.

Four hundred fifty-two defendants were charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers, including 123 individuals charged with using deadly or dangerous weapons.

One hundred forty police officers were assaulted on January 6, with approximately 80 from the U.S. Capitol Police and 60 from the Metropolitan Police Department.

Eleven individuals were arrested for charges related to assaulting members of the media or destroying their equipment.

Of those charged, 1,186 were

indicted for entering or remaining in a restricted federal building or grounds, 116 for entering a restricted area with a dangerous or deadly weapon, 71 for destruction of government property, and 56 for theft of government property. Additionally, prosecutors charged 332 individuals with obstructing an official proceeding and 57 for conspiracy counts related to obstructing a congressional proceeding, obstructing law enforcement during a civil disorder, or injuring an officer.

Approximately 718 individuals pleaded guilty to federal charges, with 213 pleading guilty to felonies

and 505 to misdemeanors. Eightynine individuals who pleaded guilty to felonies faced federal charges of assaulting law enforcement officers, and four individuals pleaded guilty to the federal charge of seditious conspiracy.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office tried 139 individuals who were found guilty, including three in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Further, 32 individuals were convicted following an agreed-upon set of facts, and 76 were found guilty of assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers and obstructing officers during a civil disorder.

Finally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office reported that approximately 749 federal defendants have received sentences, with 467 sentenced to periods of incarceration and 154 received home detention. This figure includes 28 who also received time behind bars.

Trump, who has also been found civilly liable for sexually assaulting the writer, E. Jean Carroll, and ordered to pay her $5 million in damages, faces four criminal indictments, including federal charges of inciting the January 6 attack, which led to the deaths of five law enforcement officers.

The DOJ said they’re still seeking more January 6 perpetrators, including Evan Neumann, Jonathan Daniel Pollock, Joseph Daniel Hutchinson III, Adam Villarreal, Paul Belosic, and Olivia Michelle Pollock.

“Citizens from across the country have played a crucial role in aiding the investigation,” DOJ officials said. “The FBI continues to seek public assistance in identifying individuals believed to have committed violent acts on Capitol grounds.”

Democrats Outline In Letter Why Justice Thomas Needs To Recuse Himself From Trump Cases

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA House Democrats are pleading with Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to recuse himself from the case involving former President Donald Trump’s eligibility to participate in the Colorado Republican primary. Rep. Hank Johnson of Georgia is leading the request.

The call comes in response to the twice-impeached and now fourtimes indicted former president’s

Rep. Hank Johnson, of Georgia.

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appeal to the Supreme Court after a Colorado court ruling last month disqualified him from the ballot due to his actions leading up to the January 6 attack on the Capitol.

In a letter dated Thursday, Jan. 4, lawmakers claim that Justice Thomas’s fairness is affected by his wife’s public support for Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election. The letter mentions that Ginni Thomas participated in the “Stop the Steal”

rally before the Capitol attack, highlighting her alleged involvement in organizing the event and bringing insurrectionists to the Capitol.

“This time,” the Democrats wrote, “we must urge you to recuse yourself from any involvement in the case of Anderson v. Griswold because your impartiality is reasonably questioned by substantial numbers of fair-minded members of the public.” They argue that Gin-

ni Thomas’s strong participation in the events before the January 6 insurrection and the financial benefit the Thomas family could get if Trump is re-elected are reasons for disqualification.

“Not only did your wife attend the January 6 rally, but she was instrumental in planning it and bringing the insurrectionists to the Capitol,” the letter stated. It goes on to continued on page 19

4 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

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Feed The Soul Foundation Hosts First-Ever Culinary Conference Business Development (prnewswire) houston – According to James Beard Foundation’s 2023 Industry Report, 53 percent of culinary business owners experienced lowered profits this year and challenges around rising food and labor costs have severely impacted profit margins, menu and content pricing since 2022. In its third year of service, Feed the Soul Foundation, a national nonprofit that continues to provide financial relief and business development solutions for culinary businesses, will host its first-ever Global Culinary Conference.

Presented by Diageo, the twoday, in-person business development conference will be held 8am5:30pm Monday, Jan. 22, and Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024, at The Texas Tower in Houston. Stella Artois and Tito’s Handmade Vodka serve as partner sponsors.

Culinary business owners from California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Missouri, Washington

and New York – spanning across all experiences including bakeries, food trucks, breakfast cafes, juiceries, vegan eateries and more – are ticketholders anticipating the platform’s educational offerings. Renowned chefs and thriving culinary experts including Houston restauranteur Marcus Davis, Chef Karla Hoyos, Chef Emmauel Chavez, and Chef Dayanny Delacruz will deliver an enhanced learning experience with keynote speeches and panel discussions designed to educate entrepreneurs on the art of launching and operating a prosperous culinary enterprise.

“Our goal is to create an educational experience that allows culinary business owners to step away from their business and dedicate two days to learn about resources within business development,” said Falayn Ferrell, chair of Feed the Soul Foundation. “Our Restaurant Business Development Program’s cohorts have witnessed several triumphs due to their engagement with small

Feed The Soul Global Culinary Conference keynote speakers include (from left): Chef Karla Hoyos; Marcus Davis; Chef Dayanny Delacruz; and Chef Emmauel Chavez. business experts and participating in peer-to-peer learning sessions with culinary professionals. We will broaden the scope of our conference to support numerous culinary businesses and the anticipated shifts faced within the industry.”

Each session will impart exclusive insights into the culinary business world with a diverse range of topics tailored to specific needs of attend-

ees, including but not limited to: • Marcus Davis, owner of The Breakfast Klub, will provide a keynote address referencing the success of his hospitality group (The Breakfast Klub, Kulture, Reggae Hut) • Chef Karla Hoyos, Best Chef of Miami 2022 and owner of Tacotomia; Chef Dayanny Delacruz, vice president of culinary at Levy Restaurants; and Chef Emmanuel

Chavez, owner of Tatemó and Food and Wine magazine’s “Best New Chefs” for 2023 will speak about the growth of their culinary careers • Levy Restaurants and Live Nation will speak about how culinary businesses can win contract bids as vendors or suppliers • Diageo, Stella Artois, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka host happy hours Attendees can expect in-depth keynotes focused on growing their technical skills, learning key functions of small businesses applications, understanding commercial real estate, supervising personnel, developing profitable business operations, designing bottom-line boosting marketing strategies and the future of food service businesses Programming will feature panels and master classes with the following speakers: • Will Norwood, program manager, supplier diversity and inclusion of Live Nation continued on page 19

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Biden: 2023 A ‘Great Year For American Workers’, Labor Market Had Resilient Path

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA With companies adding 216,000 jobs in December, the labor market continued a resilient path, indicating that the economy is still growing quickly, even though hiring may slow down as rising borrowing prices reduce consumer demand for goods and services.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its employment report on Friday, Jan. 5, revealing that total nonfarm payroll employment increased while the U.S. maintained a 3.7 percent unemployment rate.

According to the report, the job gains were particularly notable in the government, health care, social assistance, and construction sectors, while transportation and warehousing experienced job losses.

In the household survey, the unemployment rate remained at 3.7 percent, with 6.3 million unemployed. Although the figures were slightly higher than the previous year, the rates for various demographic groups, including adult men and women, teenagers, whites, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics, showed minimal changes.

The long-term unemployed, defined as those jobless for 27 weeks or more, accounted for 19.7 percent of all unemployed persons in December. The labor force participation rate and the employment-population ratio both decreased by 0.3 percentage points in December.

Additionally, the number of people employed part-time for economic reasons remained stable, but it increased by 333,000 over the year.

Those not in the labor force but wanting a job rose to 5.7 million, marking an increase of 514,000 over the year.

“This morning’s report confirms that 2023 was a great year for American workers. The economy created 2.7 million new jobs in 2023 – a year when the unemployment rate was consistently below 4 percent – more jobs than during any year of the prior Administration,” President Biden said in a statement.

“The strong job creation continued even as inflation fell to the pre-pandemic level of 2 percent over the last six months, and key prices have fallen over the last year – for a gallon of gas, a gallon of milk, toys, appliances, car rentals, and airline fares. American workers’ wages and wealth are higher now than before the pandemic began, adjusting for inflation,” the president asserted.

The report highlighted that payroll employment rose by 2.7 million in 2023, with an average monthly gain of 225,000, a decrease from the 2022 average monthly gain of 399,000.

Government employment saw an increase of 52,000 jobs in December, continuing an upward trend in local and federal government jobs.

Healthcare added 38,000 jobs, with ambulatory healthcare services

and hospitals experiencing notable gains. Social assistance employment rose by 21,000, primarily in individual and family services.

Construction employment increased by 17,000 last month, with nonresidential building construction contributing to the rise. However, transportation and warehousing experienced a decline of 23,000 jobs, particularly in couriers and messengers.

Employment in leisure and hospitality changed little, rising by 40,000 jobs last month. Retail trade employment also saw little change, with a slight increase of 17,000 jobs in December. Professional and busi-

ness services employment increased by 13,000 jobs.

Average hourly earnings for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls rose by 0.4 percent to $34.27 last month. Over the past 12 months, average hourly earnings have increased by 4.1 percent. All employees’ average workweek increased by 0.1 hours to 34.3 hours.

Overall, financial analysts said the employment report suggests a positive trend in the U.S. labor market, with moderate job gains and a stable unemployment rate.

“I won’t stop fighting for American workers and American families.

I know that some prices are still

too high for too many Americans, and I am doing everything in my power to lower everyday costs for hard-working Americans – from bringing down the price of insulin, prescription drugs, and energy to addressing hidden junk fees companies use to rip you off to calling on large corporations to pass on savings to consumers as their costs moderate,” Biden declared. “And I will continue opposing efforts by Congressional Republicans to shower massive giveaways on the wealthy and big corporations, cut Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, and block us from lowering costs for American families.”

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Put Tamarind On The Menu In 2024

statepoint Tamarind, a spice native to Africa, India and the Middle East, has lent its acidic, tangy-sweet flavor to Latin, Caribbean and Mexican cuisines for centuries. Today, this plump, pod-like fruit is jet-setting across the world, feeding a global curiosity for what’s next in food, drink and flavor.

That’s according to the 24th edition of McCormick’s Flavor Forecast, an annual report illuminating the latest culinary trends shaping the way people prepare and enjoy food worldwide. Every year, over four dozen global chefs, culinary professionals, trend trackers, food technologists and team members tap into their expertise and passion to uncover stand-out predictions and trends, and with this year’s report, they’ve identified tamarind as the flavor to watch out for.

“We’re thrilled to encourage people to experience the versatility and tang of tamarind. It’s truly the perfect ingredient that can be incorporated into both savory and sweet dishes,” said Hadar Cohen Aviram, executive chef, U.S. Consumer at McCormick.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

F

or the second year in a row, Allen Media Group’s news/entertainment media platform theGrio, announced the official call for nominations for the theGrio Heroes initiative, starting today, Monday, Jan. 8, 2024, via the platform’s website. Submissions will be accepted through Feb. 9, 2024.

TheGrio Heroes are about the everyday heroes dedicated to the community and the culture. Some have been working unheralded for years and others are emerging. They all share a determination to impact our communities and humanity significantly. TheGrio Heroes have demonstrated outstanding goodwill and achievements for the benefit and welfare of our communities, leading by example through service and finding solutions with compassion, dedication, and de-

termination. In 2023, co-founder and co-director of Forward Justice, Daryl V. Atkinson, won the inaugural award. Atkinson leads the advocacy-focused law, policy and strategy center to synergize community activism with the litigation, public policy, and scholarship necessary to secure rights for current and former incarcerated people.

“We are committed to shining a spotlight on people whose actions speak louder than words,” said Byron Allen, founder/chair/CEO of theGrio parent company, Allen Media Group. “We celebrate unsung heroes whose stories inspire and uplift our society and significantly impact humanity for the greater good.”

“There are many people who should be nominated and deserve recognition,” said Geraldine Moriba, senior vice pres-

ident of news, entertainment and empowerment at theGrio. “I am thrilled we have the opportunity to honor those heroes in our local communities with unwavering commitment to positive change. Their steadfastness and resilience transforms lives.”

Everyone is encouraged to nominate heroes of African-American descent whose accomplishments occurred or continued in 2023. More information about theGrio Heroes, including descriptions of categories and frequently asked questions can be found at thegrio. com/heroes. Keeping in mind community impact, innovation and influence, an editorial committee at theGrio will conduct the evaluations and make a final decision of 10 winners. The list of theGrio Heroes will be named in April.

Building Better Mental Health Series Continues In Chandler The City of Chandler’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Division returns with Embracing Wellness, the second event of the Building Better Mental Health series 10am-2pm Saturday, Jan. 27.

Held in collaboration with Semicolon Society, the free event will be held at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park: Stage Plaza, 178 E. Commonwealth Ave. The downtown setting provides an open gathering place to share available resources that support a wellness journey. More than 25 mental and physical health organizations are participating to educate the community with valuable information. There also will be entertainment featuring local youth bands including Blue Cheese, Malfunction and Zero Reasons. For the complete list of participating organizations, visit chandleraz.gov/EmbracingWellness.

This series is aimed at increasing mental health understanding and reducing stigma through awareness, education and advocacy. The final event is scheduled for May 2024.

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Whether you’re a home chef or foodie, McCormick is dishing up inspiration for incorporating tamarind into your life, both at home and when dining out with its new Tamarind & Pasilla Chile Seasoning, and by collaborating with Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer on limited-edition, tamarind-infused menu items. McCormick is also sharing a recipe for Tamarind Lemon Pepper Lemonade.

All grown up and ready to party, this punchy twist on classic lemonade is refreshingly different. Garnish with ground black pepper on the rim for a subtle finishing bite. Prep: 10 min; Cook Time: 5 min.

Ingredients: • Lemon Pepper Syrup - 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, 1/4 cup McCormick Coarse Ground Black Pepper, ground with mortar and pestle, 1 teaspoon McCormick Pure Lemon Extract • Lemon Pepper Sugar - 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon McCormick Coarse Ground Black Pepper, 1 lemon, zest only • Tamarind Lemonade - 6 cups water, 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 6 teaspoons tamarind paste Instructions: 1. For the Lemon Pepper Syrup, mix sugar, water and black pepper in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil on high heat, stirring occasionally until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat; let steep for 15 minutes. Strain through a very fine mesh sieve. Stir in lemon extract; cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. For the Lemon Pepper Sugar, mix sugar, black pepper and lemon zest until no lumps remain. Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.

3. Place 1 tablespoon of the Syrup in shallow bowl. Dip rims of 6 (10-ounce) glasses into Syrup, then dip in Lemon Pepper Sugar to coat. Fill glasses halfway with ice; set aside.

4. To prepare Lemonade, whisk water, remaining Syrup, lemon juice and tamarind concentrate in a large pitcher until well blended.

Pour into prepared glasses. Refrigerate until chilled or serve immediately. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges, if desired. *** Need more inspiration? The report also identified these trends: • Sour Power: From tamarind to coconut vinegar, acidic agents are revolutionizing menus to open senses, boost crave-ability and even “cook” without heat.

• Thoughtfully Borrowed: A reinvention of regional-traditional cuisine is paying homage and respect to chefs’ roots with inspiring ingredients and techniques.

• Indulgence Redefined: Today, indulgence is all about emotions and memories. Two ways this trend comes to life are through “newstalgia,” with brands and restaurants reintroducing childhood favorites with gourmet twists, and “food maximalism,” layering flavors to create a feast for the senses and ultra-customize preferences.

“There is no shortage of trends to uncover, which allows us to continue to shake up the way people cook and eat,” Cohen Aviram said.

YOUTH & EDUCATION: Greater Academic Performance – 13 –

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ARIZONA INFORMANT

Mesa Jazz Fest Salutes Black History Month, African And Latin Music; Seeks Support Special to the Informant For the past seven incredible years, the Mesa International Jazz Day Festival has transformed the city into a vibrant hub of music, dance and cultural celebration. As it gears up for February, the event aims to pay tribute to the extraordinary talents of African, Black American, and Latin jazz musicians whom have shaped the genre with their passion and creativity.

“Led by the dedicated efforts of Pastor Helen Hunter, Aubrey Morris, and Kerwin Brown, the International Jazz Day Arizona Foundation team is tirelessly working to secure sponsorships and alternative resources to ensure that this special event continues its legacy of success,” said William “Doc” Jones, founder and executive director of the organization. “We genuinely believe in preserving this esteemed cultural tradition while keeping jazz alive and thriving in Mesa.”

The event will feature unforgettable performances and a rich cultural experience and will celebrate local

artistry. An intersection of diverse cultures as African, Black American, and Latin influences take center stage. From breathtaking dance performances to thought-provoking art

installations and infectious rhythms, every aspect of the festival aims to create an immersive sonic journey that celebrates unity through music.

“The festival is part of a global

movement created by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) and Herbie Hancock,” Jones said.

“It transcends borders, reaching deep into the depths of our collective soul. It embodies the spirit of jazz, an art form that unites people regardless of background or origin.

It symbolizes the beauty of diversity and the power of harmony.

“Jazz Day AZ has poured boundless passion and dedication into curating this celebration, weaving together the melodic threads of talented musicians and enthusiastic audiences.We stand at a crossroads, yearning for the unwavering support of our community to keep this musical journey alive.”

Jazz Day AZ – which offers several ongoing jazz events throughout the Valley – represents cultural diversity and inclusivity, highlighting the contributions of jazz musicians and honoring their artistry. The organization serves as a platform for emerging musicians to showcase their talents and gain exposure. It

nurtures artistic growth and provides opportunities for aspiring artists to pursue their dreams in jazz.

“Preserving the festival demonstrates our commitment to valuing and appreciating different cultural traditions. Moreover, the economic impact of the festival must be noticed. It attracts visitors, stimulates tourism, and boosts the local economy, benefiting businesses and creating employment opportunities.

“Lastly, preserving the festival through our ‘Save the Mesa International Jazz Day Festival’ ensures that future generations can experience the transformative power of jazz. It inspires and educates young minds, fostering a love for music and the arts that can have a lasting impact on their lives.”

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or make a contribution towards supporting the Mesa International Jazz Day Festival, please contact our team at jazzdayaz@gmail.com or call Doc Jones at 602-524-7998.

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ARIZONA INFORMANT

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024 9

Angela Bassett Takes Home Honorary Oscar Angela Bassett was honored with an honorary Oscar at Tuesday’s 14th Annual Governors Awards, held at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood.

The 65-year-old’s first-ever Academy Award from The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was presented to her by fellow actress Academy Award-winner Regina King, making her the second Black actress to earn the honor after Cicely Tyson.

Last year, Bassett was in contention for an Oscar for her role as Queen Ramonda in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever but lost the best-supporting-actress nom to Jamie Lee Curtis. Bassett also lost out for her portrayal of Tina Turner in1993’s What’s Love Got to Do With

It. Still, others have noted that she should have/could have have won for her role as the scorned firestarer wife Bernadine Harris in Waiting To Exhale.

Bassett gave an impassioned

In celebration of The Apollo’s 90th anniversary in 2024, the renowned institution announced today a selection of upcoming concerts, comedy shows, and educational programs across its stages as part of its Winter and Spring 2024 season–adding to the recently announced programming at The Apollo Stages at the revitalized Victoria Theater, set to open in February 2024.

Exciting new programming across the multiple stages of The Apollo includes an array of Apollo commissions, including the recently announced Soul Science Lab’s The Renaissance Mixtape, an immersive theatrical concert that

uses elements of hip-hop culture and visual storytelling to highlight voices of the Harlem Renaissance led by Brooklyn-based artists Chen Lo and Asante Amin, four-time Grammy nominee and Apollo New Works artist Stefon Harris and his band, Blackout, as well as In the Same Tongue, a vibrant movement, sound, and language-based work by legendary choreographer Dianne McIntyre with original music by celebrated composer Diedre Murray and poetry by the late Obie award-winning playwright Ntozake Shange.

The legendary Amateur Night at The Apollo returns for an abbrevi-

Angela Bassett speech, talking about acting as not just a career but a calling. She said the honorary Oscar is not just another award but “a testament to my legacy.” She offered gratitude to the people that helped throughout

her life and career. She thanked her husband, Courtney B. Vance, her children, family members and colleagues, among others.

She also discussed the history of Black actresses in her position, naming whose who came before her, like Ruby Dee, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Rosalind Cash.

“They were my North Star, my guiding light, proof that while the road may not be without curves and bumps, there was a way to fulfill what I believed deep in my soul was my destiny,” she said.

She followed with a call to action regarding the future of people of color in Hollywood.

“This honor isn’t just for or about me,” Bassett said. “What I hope this moment means is that we are taking

the necessary steps toward a future in which it is the norm, not the exception, to see and embrace one another’s full humanity, stories and perspectives. This must be our goal, and to always remember that there is room for us all.”

Bassett wrapped her speech by quoting the late poet Maya Angelou in saying, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” She also thanked the audience for allowing her to “make you see and feel” throughout her decades long tenure as an actress.

Due to the actors strike it was moved from its traditional November date to Jan. 9, amid the same week as voting for Oscars begins.

New York’s Legendary Apollo Celebrates 90 Years

sanden wolff productions

ated season from February to June, announcing a winner just in time for the Historic Theater renovations

to begin, alongside other crowd favorites Apollo Comedy Club and Apollo Music Café. From conver-

sations with prominent artists and creatives to annual audience favorites, this season’s programming continues to center and amplify Black artists, voices, and culture.

In honor of The Apollo’s inaugural season at The Victoria, thanks to generous support from The Jerome L. Greene Foundation, all tickets to Apollo-presented programming in those spaces will be capped at $20.

Explore the Winter and Spring 2024 season programming below.

Additional programs with artists such as theater playwright and director Talvin Wilks will be announced at a later date. To learn more, visit apollotheater.org/spring-2024.

Jun 1: Shelbyville, Tennessee Jun 8: Jacksonville, Florida Jun 22: Turley, Oklahoma Aug 30-31: Scottsdale, Arizona Oct 11-12: Las Vegas, Nevada — ADDITIONAL RODEOS — Feb 3: Huntsville, Alabama May 25: Jackson, Mississippi Jul 12: Bakersfield, California Aug 9-10: Okmulgee, Oklahoma

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ARIZONA INFORMANT

Legendary Arizona Musician Walt Richardson Celebrates 70th Year, Honored By KRDP Desert Soul Media, Inc., KRDP Community Radio, and CultureHUB announced today that Valley music legend and media personality Walt Richardson will be honored during the station’s Winter fundraiser, which will also celebrate Richardon’s 70th birthday.

“We’re very excited to celebrate and honor this incredible musician, educator, community leader, and media personality,” said Kaja Brown, KRDP general manager.

“We are equally excited to host this event at the Valley’s only African American-owned co-working space, CultureHUB.” The event – will feature live performances by Richardson and other local artists, brunch and a ceremony honoring the incredible accomplishments of legendary musician – will be 10am-2pm Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, at CultureHUB, located at 735 W. Grand Avenue in Phoenix. CultureHUB, which held is grand opening in December, is a revolutionary co-working and event rental space engineered to provide resources for creatives and entrepreneurs in Black and underserved communities.

Walter “Walt” Richardson II, born Jan. 21, is truly a Tempe music legend in no uncertain terms.

This icon – inducted into the Arizona Music & Enteratinemtn Hall of Fame – has been playing his own take on folk, reggae and rock in the local community for more than 40 years. Having started as a street musician and working his way up to world tours, Richardson has always made Tempe his home base and celebrates it in his songs as well. He has released more than five albums both with his band Morning Star and as a solo artist. Richardson’s life is embedded in music, even when he’s not playing it himself. In fact, Richardson’s father was an entertainer in the Tuskegee Airman singing group, Operation Happiness, and also performed with Bob Hope in USO shows. The senior Walt encouraged his son in music.

Now, Richardson empowers oth-

Walt Richardson

er signer/songwriters as the current host of Walk-in Wednesdays Open Mic Night at Tempe Center for the Arts. The media personality has hosted the weekly TV series Songwriters’ Showcase, which aired on Arizona PBS, and on Tempe 11.

Richardson hosts “My World of Music,” a nationally syndicated radio program, spotlighting a mix of Caribbean, African, Latin, Folk, Asian and Middle Eastern sounds.

“My World of Music” airs 6-8pm Saturdays locally in the Phoenix area on KRDP. Learn more about the artist at walterrichardson.com.

Admission includes brunch and a raffle ticket to enter a chance to win a 50th anniversary of Hip Hop coffee table book. Proceeds will benefit KRDP Community Radio and CultureHUB. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. Search for “KRDP.” In addition to the celebration, KRDP is launching its winter donor (aka pledge) drive, with a goal of raising $5,000 to support station

operations and expansion.

KRDP Community Radio is a public radio service of Desert Soul Media, Inc. Through KRDP Indie KRDP Indie, its online/streaming radio station listeners enjoy Adult Album Alternative (AAA) format along with news, public affairs, and specialty programming from diverse

CultureHUB, located on Grand Avenue in Phoenix, serves as the host venue for the KRDP fundraiser event. IG @CULTUREHUBPHX

groups including Black, Indigenous, and persons of color (BIPOC), Latinx, and women producers.

As the only Black-owned radio station serving the Phoenix metropolitan area, KRDP currently reaches the east Valley (Apache Junction, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, south Scottsdale, Tempe) on 90.7 FM, or KRDP Jazz – which features a diverse mix of Jazz, Blues, R&B, and Soul along with community specialty programs, news and public affairs, as well as nationally syndicated programs.

A second FM license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has been obtained to extend its coverage into north Phoenix and the west Valley on 91.9

FM. In order to get the second signal on the air, KRDP needs to raise approximately $90,000 to purchase equipment, install the equipment at its tower site and cover rent at the second tower site.

“We are encouraged by the response we’ve received from the east Valley community, and many of our supporters in Phoenix and the west Valley are eager to be able to tune us in on the radio, but we need the community’s support,” Brown said.

Donations can be made online at listen2krdp.com/donate and a special fundraising page at spotfund. com (search for “KRDP”). *** Desert Soul Media, Inc., is a nonprofit, African-American- governedand operated-media arts organization. It empowers underrepresented cultures to use media as a vehicle to amplify their voices within a trauma-informed approach that cultivates community building. In addition to KRDP Community Radio, DSM fulfills its mission through key educational programs: Desert Soul Creative Studios, a community media center; Paint the Town with Sound, a live event series spotlighting independent musicians, artists and multimedia creatives ; and Soul Star Live®, a daily public affairs radio series and podcast tackling issues of concern to Arizona’s African-American community. Visit desertsoulmedia.org.

JANUARY IS

SELF-LOVE MONTH

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ILLUSTRATION BY LAMAROUS SHIRLEY FROM AN ORIGINAL PORTRAIT BY BACHRACH PHOTOGRAPHY | © 2023/2024 CASK LEGACY, LLC ON BEHALF OF THE ESTATE OF CORETTA SCOTT KING | THE KING CENTER

2 SECTION 2 | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

KING SPECIAL

ARIZONA INFORMANT

60th Anniversary Of Dr. King Visit To Arizona Urging The Passage Of 1964 Civil Rights Act This year marks the 60th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s visit to Arizona during which he spoke at Tanner Chapel AME Church in Phoenix and ASU’s Goodwin Stadium in Tempe urging passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. A Maricopa County NAACP branch and ASU worked to add Arizona as King’s last stop on a west coast tour.

One of the oldest African-American churches in the state, Tanner is the only Arizona church where civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. is known to have given a sermon.

Some nine months after his “I Have A Dream” speech during the March On Washington, King spoke June 3, 1964, for about six minutes to the Black community congregated at the church – discussing how the battle for racial justice was a “fight to save the soul of America” – before heading to ASU. Despite being sick said it was a privilege to be in Arizona. He spoke to an audience of 8,000 attendees and delivered a speech titled “Religious Witness for Human Dignity.”

“We are challenged to get rid of the notion once and for all, that there are superior and inferior races,” King said. “There is a need for strong civil rights legislation now.

And the federal scale and on the local scale in states all over the nation. That is a debate taking place right now, in the Senate, and it is

more than a legitimate debate. It is bogged down now into an actual filibuster and this is tragic for the nation. It is tragic for the cause of justice, and for democracy. I think one of the most urgent issues facing America now is to get this Civil Rights Bill through.”

In 2013, Mary Scanlon was shopping at a Goodwill store in Phoenix and came across a pile of 35 vintage reel-to-reel tapes. One of the tapes was labeled “Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.” It was $3. Scalon donated all the tapes to Arizona State University, which found that the King tape is the only known recording of speeches the slain civil rights leader gave at ASU and Tanner.

University archivists digitized the hour-long audio and made it available for the public to hear.

It was noted the tapes were donated to the thrift store as part of the Lincoln Ragsdale Sr. estate.

They were housed at the Ragsdale Mortuary, owned by the late civil

rights leader and former Tuskegee Airman who died in 1995.

In 1987, then-Governor Evan Mecham rescinded the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday after being ob-

served once in 1986. It wasn’t until 1992 voters approved an MLK holiday to be recognized in Arizona.

Listen to the speech online via Cronkite News’ Soundcloud. Search for: Martin Luther King Jr.’s Speech at Tanner AME Church. above, left: Lincoln Ragsdale introduces Dr. King. right: G. Homer Durham, King, Ralph Abernathy, an unidentified participant, Rev. Louis Eaton, and Msgr. Robert Donahoe at Goodwin Stadium. asu repository

ARIZONA INFORMANT

KING SPECIAL

Peoria Hosts 2nd Annual MLK Day Of Service

In celebration of the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., the City of Peoria is hosting its second annual MLK Day of Service on 10am-1pm Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023, at Peoria Community Center, located at 8335 W. Jefferson Street.

“This event is an opportunity for the community to volunteer and support local non-profits and the good work they are doing,” said Marylou Stephens, Peoria director of arts, culture and library services. “We are pleased to bring our community together in the wonderful spirit of service that Martin Luther King Jr. embodied.”

The city has invited a variety of health and wellness organizations and local community assistance groups to highlight their services to residents. In addition, the event will feature multicultural activities, volunteer opportunities, complimentary meal and beverages, free books for children, and a variety of service providers and community resources.

The formal program begins at 10am with opening remarks and introduction from Peoria Mayor Jason Beck, a Presentation of Colors by the Buffalo Soldiers, and the National Anthem performance by Valley blues legend Francine Reed. Featured music entertainment will begin at 10:15am, and continue through the duration of the event with periodic breaks until 1pm. Spoken word performances by Sean Avery Medlin will occur on main stage at 11am and 12 noon.

city of peoria

A variety of fun and interactive activities will be available for all ages to enjoy, including participatory drumming circle presentations

by Dr. Lydia Woods. The drumming circle sessions will take place inside the Peoria Community Center at 10:30am, 11:30am, and 12:30pm. Live mural painting by local artist Gina Ribaudo will take place on Jefferson Street, near the community center entrance, as well as an interactive “I have a dream” wall where adults and children are encouraged to write their dreams on the collaborative art piece. Additionally, a free, plated meal will be served from 11am-1pm in the community center, along with free beverages from local food vendors.

Visit peoriaaz.gov/events or call 623-7737436 for more information about the MLK Day of Service.

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4 SECTION 2 | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

KING SPECIAL

ARIZONA INFORMANT

ZONE IN - SPORTS

ARIZONA INFORMANT

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024 11

College Football Bowl Games Back At State 48

By G. Napier Barness III hen it is all said and done, 43 college football bowl games will be played with the 43rd and final game (No. 1 Michigan vs. No. 2 Washington) crowning the 2023-24 college football’s national champions.

Arizona, state 48, hosted three of these events this year.

The Arizona Informant newspaper began covering bowl games when the Western Athletic Conference’s champion, Arizona State University, was shunned by the bowl selection committee. The year was 1971. The Fiesta Bowl came into existence with our Sun Devils as WAC champions hosting and defeating Florida State University 45-38.

Before the Fiesta Bowl, all major college football teams had to vie for 11 NCAA Bowl games (that’s only 22 teams, doing the math). The major bowls at the time being the Rose, Orange, Sugar, Cotton and Sun bowls. Secondary bowls were the Liberty, Peach, Bluebonnet, Pasadena and Tangerine bowls. During this period only the best teams were invited to go bowling. For the most part, the games were competitive.

Fast forward to today. More than 80 teams got invitations to appear in a “Bowl” game.

Now you only need six victories to become bowl eligible. Sometimes the selection committee gets it right and pits two teams against each other that will make the game both competitive and enjoyable. Sometimes they don’t. At Chase Field in downtown Phoenix, the Guaranteed Rate Bowl pitted the Kansas Jayhawks (8-4) against the Running Rebels of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) (9-4).

Kansas is a member of a Power 5 Conference (Big 12). UNLV is a member of Mountain West Conference. On paper it looked like a competitive matchup. On the field it wasn’t.

The Jayhawks won 49-36. The winners amassed 591 yards of total

W

above: Photographer Troy S. Flowers on the sidelines at the Guaranteed Rate Bowl at Chase Field in downtown Phoenix. left: Kansas’ WR Quentin Skinner went up and over a UNLV defender for a reception in the Jayhawks 49-36 victory at the Guaranteed Rate Bowl. troy s. flowers

offense in spite of a record 210 yards in penalties. Kansas QB Jason Bean completed 19 of 28 passes for 449 yards and six touchdowns. UNLV was down 28-10 at the half.

On New Year’s Day, the 2024 Vrbo Fiesta Bowl was played out in Glendale. The Oregon Ducks (112), ranked eighth nationally, faced the Liberty Flames (13-0) ranked 23rd. If you did not follow college football you would think that this would be a competitive contest.

The Ducks play in the soon-to-be

debunked Pac 12, another Power 5 Conference. Their only losses came at the hands of the Washington Huskies (14-0). Both losses went down to the wire with the Ducks losing by merely three points in both games.

Liberty is a member of Conference USA. That conference is the home of such football powers like New Mexico State, Sam Houston State, Middle Tennessee, Western Kentucky and UTEP. The Flames were averaging more than 40 ppg against that competition.

Dr. Jerry Farwell’s school took the opening kick-off and drove for a touchdown. They missed the PAT. It was a rap after that as the Ducks took flight to 46 unanswered points.

It wasn’t even that close. Oregon QB Bo Nix completed 28 of 35 passes for 363 yards and five touchdowns.

Your mind tends to wander during blow-out football games.

Checking the rosters, I discovered that 340 players were listed (85 per team) for the four teams that played in the Phoenix area bowl games. Of which, only five players had roots in State 48. Four attended UNLV with the fifth going to Oregon.

C’mon, Arizona, we can do better.

In the press box, I only saw one other African-American male at the Guaranteed Rate Bowl and no brothers at the Fiesta. I did meet several young people from Northern Arizona University’s journalism

school who were covering the game for a grade. The Fiesta Bowl also had several students and an instructor from ASU reporting the game. We need to get our kids in these programs to gain firsthand experience.

I met a young man while going into Chase Field for the Guaranteed Rate Bowl. His name was Troy Flowers. I didn’t remember Mr. Flowers. He said he remembered me. He said he used to see me covering football games at Westview High School. He saw me taking pictures of the players from the sidelines. He remembered talking to me about it. He said talking to me gave him the inspiration to want to be a photographer. He stated that the Informant actually gave him his first credit for a published photo.

I didn’t recall any of this, but it did make me feel good that we had a positive influence on someone.

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12 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

ARIZONA INFORMANT

DEAN’S DUFFERS

Champ, Bramlett Open In Hawaii The first full-field PGA Tour event kicks off the 2024 season Jan 11-14, at the Sony Open in Hawaii, where 141 golfers will be competing. The list of golfers feature players who are working to stay viable and competitive on tour including two of the three African-American members: Cameron Champ and Joseph Bramlett; (Tiger Woods is the third).

Champ, 28, is a three-time winner on the PGA Tour (Sanderson Farms 2018; Safeway 2019; and 3M Open 2021) but has struggled with injuries and poor play over the past two seasons. Last season, Champ participated in 29 events and only finished 12. He had three top 10 finishes (8-8-9) and five top 25 finishes. That means he missed the cut in 17 events, finished 143rd in FedEx Cup points with 219 and earned $1.1 million with a scoring average of 71.445.

In his only major appearance, The Masters, in April, he posted 76-74-150 and missed the cut of 147(+3), by three shots. A crippled Tiger played well enough to make the cut on the number before

MICHAEL A. DEAN

withdrawing because he physically couldn’t perform. Champ is motivated and it is hoped he has no physical issues that will keep him from returning to the winner’s circle once again.

Bramlett, 35, is a journeyman pro who has toiled on the Korn Ferry and PGA Tours since 2010.

At one point he had what could have been a career ending back injury but he shied away from surgery and found help through physical therapy regimens and was out of the game for nearly five years. He finished 89th (489) in FedEx Cup points last season after participating in 26 events. He was 16-10 in cuts

made that included three top 10 (7-9-10) and earned approximately $1.6 million with a scoring average of 70.580 (68). Bramlett has no career PGA Tour wins but that won’t keep him from working hard and giving his best effort every time he tees it up. The Stanford grad patterned himself after Tiger and tried to follow in his footsteps by becoming the first African-American golfer to earn a PGA Tour card in 2011 after Woods joined in1996.

At 14, Bramlett showed so much potential by becoming the youngest golfer to qualify and play in the 2002 U.S. Amateur Championship at Oakland Hills GC in Michigan.

Maybe the seasoned vet will work his way into to winner’s circle for the first time on the PGA Tour. (He did win the 2020 Korn Ferry Tour Championship).

*** Other Teebits: Big news about Woods. He announced he is no longer affiliated with Nike.

“Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world. The days since have been filled with so many amazing mo-

and 1 block.

• HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division II CIAA Team of the Week Virginia State University went 1-0 with a conference win against St. Augustine’s University (78-63).

PLAYER+TEAM OF THE WEEK

Dec 24-30

HBCU All-Stars LLC has announced its eighth 2023-24 HBCU All-Stars “Player of the Week and Team of the Week” honors featuring the nation’s top HBCU student-athletes from the MEAC, SWAC, CIAA, SIAC, Tennessee State, North Carolina A&T and Hampton Universities.

“We are less than 100 days from hosting the third annual HBCU All-Star Game on Sunday, April 7 at Grand Canyon University Arena in Phoenix during Final Four weekend,” said Travis L. Williams, HBCU All-Stars, LLC Founder/CEO. “With the new year here, there is so much anticipation and excitement for this historic event and we will continue celebrating the best in Black College Basketball every week with our 49 participating HBCUs, talented student-athletes, and brilliant coaches. The CIAA is four games into league play, SIAC five games into league play, OVC two games, and CAA teams just getting started for the regular season and conference tournament championships.

“The MEAC and SWAC will begin league play next week and our HBCU All-Stars national scouts are locked in evaluating the top 65 watch list players on a high level.”

• HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division I MEAC Player of the Week Seth Towns, Howard University, Leonard Eugene “Truck” Robinson; averaged 35 mpg, 18 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block.

• HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division I Independent Player of the Week Christian Brown, Tennessee State University (John Chaney Shooting Guard); averaged 25 mpg, 15 points, and 2 rebounds.

• HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division I Independent Team of the Week Tennessee State University went 1-1 on the week with a loss to University of Tennessee at Martin (91-75) and a win against the University of Arkansas Little Rock (90-82).

• HBCU All-Stars National Spotlight Division II Player of the Week Kaleb Coleman Fayetteville State University (Robert Earl “Bob” Love Small Forward); averaged 33 mpg, 20 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block.

• HBCU All-Stars National Spotlight Division I Team of the Week Virginia State University went 1-0 with a conference home win against St. Augustine’s University (78-63).

• HBCU All-Stars National Spotlight Player of the Week Seth Towns, Howard University, Leonard Eugene “Truck” Robinson; averaged 35 mpg, 18 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals and 1 block.

• HBCU All-Stars National Spotlight Team of the Week Howard University went 1-0 with a win over La Salle University (71-66). ***

• HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division I MEAC Co-Teams of the Week Delaware State University went 1-0 with a win over Mount St. Mary’s University (77-73). Howard University went 1-0 with a win over La Salle University (71-66).

• HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division I SWAC Player of the Week No Player of the Week • HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division I SWAC Team of the Week No Team of the Week • HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division II SIAC Player of the Week No Player of the Week • HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division II SIAC Team of the Week No Team of the Week • HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division II CIAA Player of the Week Kaleb Coleman, Fayetteville State University (Robert Earl “Bob” Love Small Forward); averaged 33 mpg, 20points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist,

HBCU All-Stars National Scouts with more than 100 combined years of coaching, scouting, and recruiting will continue attending games and evaluating, scouting, and recruiting the nation’s top 60 players across the country from the 2024 Watch List. HBCU All-Stars Player of the Week selections will highlight and showcase the nation’s best HBCU student-athletes and brilliant coaches on a national stage. Learn more at hbcuallstargame.com and hbcuallstargameexperience.org.

ments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever,” Woods wrote. “Phil Knight’s passion and vision brought this Nike and Nike Golf partnership together and I want to personally thank him, along with the Nike employees and incredible athletes I have had the pleasure of working with along the way. People will ask if there is another chapter.

Yes, there will certainly be another chapter. See you in LA!” (tgr) Woods has always been on the cutting edge of change in the game of golf and with this new venture he will continue to set standards that will probably go unmatched in the years to come. Lately he’s been seen wearing FootJoy shoes and hitting Taylor Made clubs and Bridgestone golf balls.

Finally, anytime one of our own is confronted with a disturbing and difficult situation, we are saddened and concerned. Harold Varner III, formerly of the PGA Tour and now the rival LIV Golf Tour, was recently stopped and arrested for DWI in his hometown of Charlotte, N.C. Varner blew a .16 blood alcohol concentration on a breathalyzer which was well over the legal driving limit. He will appear in court Jan. 19.

Why not have someone drive him home, or use Uber, Lyft or even the police? Varner is a popular individual and should know better.

Until Next Time...

Keep On Strokin’

ARIZONA INFORMANT

ZONE IN - YOUTH & EDUCATION

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024 13

Honoring King: Combating Inequity, Inequality Through The Education Of Our Children Special to the Informant

By Darlene Jackson As the co-founder of the nonprofit organization Community Leadership Alliance (CLA), I am excited to share our partnership with the Greater Academic Performance (GAP) program.

This education initiative is crucial in our mission to confront and end inequity and inequality through impact partnerships. These partnerships directly support individuals, families, and neighborhoods negatively affected by their low socio-economic status.

We can make a significant difference by leveraging human capital- the knowledge, skills, and experience of individuals and populations. Dr. King, a firm believer in the power of education, would have been proud of our work with GAP. Last year, the Community Leadership Alliance honored Dr. King by reflecting on his accomplishments and discussing how we can continue his work. Our theme was “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community.” We chose to build a community, and this year, we are spotlighting an organization that uses human capital and free time to enhance

our children’s academics. As Dr. King championed, education is a powerful weapon against inequity and inequality, and we are proud to support this cause.

One way to combat inequity and inequality is through education. Greater Academic Performance (GAP) is a nonprofit organization founded by Maricopa NAACP President

Dr. Hardin. This program aims to educate our children and prepare them to make a difference in our world. Education is a crucial component in combating inequity and inequality.

Dr. King was a champion of education and believed that education empowered individuals and promoted social justice. Dr. Hardin and her work through the GAP program supports Dr. King’s Dream. She believes

that quality education is a birthright and a means for eliminating inequality and promoting social justice. Dr. King’s dreams continue through the GAP program.

I want to raise awareness about the GAP’s education program and its significance in combating inequality through education.

GAP’s first education session will be Jan. 13, 2024, at South Mountain Community College, the weekend before the MLK holiday.

Education Reduces Economic Inequalities If workers from poor and rich backgrounds received the same education, the disparity in working poverty could decrease by 39 percent.

Academic support serves to overcome inequality, shed light on a crucial issue, and inspire others to join the cause.

Dr. King said he chose to love because love “is ultimately the only answer to mankind’s problems.” He believed this love would take us from being a divided society to having a kinship. A kinship that will bring forth equity and justice for all.

Darlene Jackson is co-founder of Community Leadership Alliance. Learn more at communityleaderalliance.org.

Arizona Community Foundation Scholarship Cycle Opens The Arizona Community Foundation’s online scholarship portal is now accepting applications.

These scholarships are available to students attending postsecondary schools during the 202425 academic year.

As Arizona’s largest independent provider of scholarship funding, ACF offers access to more than 150 scholarships through a single online application. Applicants complete one general application that instantly matches them with scholarship opportunities for which they may be eligible. During the 2023-24 academic year, ACF awarded more than $5.2 million in scholarships

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to students across Arizona.

Scholarships are available for high school seniors, current college students, graduate students, or adult re-entry students attending accredited two-year and four-year colleges and universities, as well as career and technical schools anywhere in the United States. Each award has its own deadline, with some closing as early as March or as late as May. Students are encouraged to apply early to maximize their opportunities.

Scholarships can be awarded based on merit or financial need and may be restricted to stu-

dents from a particular geographic region or with specific demographic characteristics. Visit azfoundation.org/scholarships to access scholarship awards and learn more about scholarships available through ACF. “For applicants, it also is a good idea to attend one of the available scholarship workshops.

Register online at azfoundation.org under the “Get Ready To Apply” tab,” noted Dr. Wil Counts, chair of the Bishop Henry Barnwell Scholarship.

If questions, send an email to scholarship@ azfoundation.org.

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NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024 15

Concerns Raised By Democratic Leaders Over Biden-Harris Reelection Campaign’s Black Voter Support, MAGA Wall Challenge

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA In a critical assessment of the Biden-Harris reelection campaign, South Carolina Democratic Rep. James Clyburn, a key party influencer, and former President Barack Obama have each expressed reservations regarding the campaign’s struggle to secure robust backing from Black voters and its apparent inability to breach the MAGA wall. Clyburn, a linchpin in Biden’s victorious 2020 White House bid, and Obama, wielding enduring popularity, particularly among the Black community, conveyed their concerns separately.

During a candid interview on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Clyburn voiced his unease.

“I have no problem with the Biden administration and what it has done,” Clyburn stated. “My problem

is that we have not been able to break through that MAGA wall in order to get to people exactly what this president has done.” Despite highlighting these concerns, Clyburn underscored that he was “not worried” but “very concerned,” revealing that he had personally discussed these issues with President Biden.

SHUTDOWN continued from page 1

Although Johnson hailed the agreement as a favorable spending deal for Republicans, he acknowledged that the final spending levels “may not satisfy everyone and do not achieve as much spending reduction as many would prefer.”

Biden acknowledged that the deal “offers a pathway” to fund the government without significant cuts. He urged Congressional Re-

Delving into specifics, Clyburn focused on student debt relief as an exemplar of Biden’s commitment to fulfilling promises. He addressed the criticism surrounding a segment of Biden’s debt relief plan struck down by the Supreme Court, noting, “I’m still hearing from people as recently as yesterday that he did not keep his

publicans to fulfill their responsibilities, cease government shutdown threats, and allocate funding for critical domestic and national security priorities, including his supplemental request for Ukraine and Israel.

With the initial deadline for passing four spending bills on Jan. 19, securing an overall agreement on total funding is just the initial phase of avoiding a shutdown. A subsequent deadline for finalizing the remaining eight appropriations bills, including the one for the Pentagon, looms on Feb. 2.

promise on student loan debt relief.

And he has.”

Clyburn pointed out the broader achievements.

“Eighty percent of what he said he would do, he has done and is continuing to do it, and people don’t focus on that,” he stated.

“They only focus on that 20 percent affected by that court decision rather than what he did to get beyond the court decision.”

Simultaneously, Obama has discussed President Biden’s reelection campaign structure. Reportedly, Obama has emphasized the need for the campaign to operate independently, making decisions without constant clearance from the White House. According to the Washington Post, Obama’s concerns stem from the belief that the campaign requires empowerment for

effective decision-making.

The newspaper highlighted Obama’s enduring concerns about the political strength of the twice-impeached and four-times indicted former President Trump, citing Trump’s devoted following, a conservative media ecosystem favoring him, and a polarized nation as potential advantages for Trump in the 2024 election.

In a statement, Eric Schultz, a senior adviser to Obama, affirmed the former president’s commitment to supporting Democrats.

“We place a huge emphasis on finding creative ways to reach new audiences, especially tools that can be directly tied to voter mobilization or volunteer activations,” Schultz remarked. “We are deliberate in picking our moments because our objective is to move the needle.”

istock photo

16 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

RELIGION / SPIRITUALITY

ARIZONA INFORMANT

Report Details Pandemic’s Impact On Black Churches The latest report from the Hartford Institute for Religion Research shows how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted majority Black, White, and multiracial congregations differently over the past three years. The study – with surveys from Faith Communities Today (FACT) and the Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations (EPIC) project – found drops in attendance, finances and clergy well being were especially pronounced for Black churches.

B. Clarvon Watts – author of “Understanding the Pandemic Impact on Black and Multiracial Congregations” (released Jan. 4) – is a sociologist and postdoctoral research fellow at the Hartford Institute for Religion Research.

While 65 percent of White congregations say their finances stayed the same or improved since 2018, only 50 percent of Black churches could say the same. The report also showed a concerning 15 percent increase in Black clergy considering leaving ministry after weathering the strains of the pandemic.

However, Black churches showed tremendous adaptability and commitment to pandemic response efforts – 99 percent encouraged vaccinations compared to only 53 percent of White church leaders. They also

B. Clarvon Watts

opened their buildings as testing and vaccination sites at more than double the rate of White congregations.

The report praises the resilience of Black congregations in utilizing technology and continuing community engagement throughout

an extraordinarily difficult period.

It calls for increased support, both financial and through partnerships, to alleviate systemic burdens facing these vital faith communities.

Visit covidreligionresearch.org for the full report.

CHURCH DIRECTORY CENTRAL VALLEY

ADVERTISE YOUR CHURCH

CENTRAL VALLEY

8:15AM - 10:45AM 2927 N. 35th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85017

info@sjibc.org

PRAISE THE LORD SEND US YOUR FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND OBITUARIES. CALL 602-257-9300 TODAY TO LEARN MORE!

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SOUTH VALLEY

CENTRAL MARICOPA

SOUTH VALLEY UNION INSTITUTIONAL BAPTIST CHURCH 2760 East Mobile Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85040 Phone: 602-276-6871 • Fax: 602-314-6421 unionbaptistphoenixaz@gmail.com

— Sunday (in person & online) — Fellowship Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:45-10am Worship Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10:00am Please join our weekly SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE from your computer, tablet or smart phone by visiting the following link: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/155711389 — Wednesday (online only) — Fellowship Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:45-6pm Worship Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00pm Please join our weekly BIBLE STUDY session from your computer, tablet or smart phone by visiting the following link: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/173334653 *** To call in for our Sunday Morning Worship Service and Wednesday Night Bible Study, please dial toll-free number: 1-866-899-4679 Note: You will be prompted by the automated system to enter an access code, as folllows: For SUNDAY Worship Service: 155-711-389 For WEDNESDAY Bible Study: 173-334-653

2701 E. Marguerite Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85040 Church: 602-276-9075 David Eddings, Sr., Pastor “... these three remain: faith, hope, and love.

But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Cor. 13:13 NIV) Sunday:

Morning Prayer Christian Education Morning Worship Evening Worship Wednesday: Bible Study

8:30am 9:15am 10:30am 5:00pm 7:30pm

GET YOUR PRAISE ON.

18 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

CHURCH DIRECTORY CONT’D

SOUTH VALLEY

ARIZONA INFORMANT

SOUTHEAST VALLEY

SOUTHEAST VALLEY

WEST VALLEY Bethesda Community Baptist Church 906 E. Jones Ave. - P.O. Box 8442 Phoenix, Arizona 85066

The New Creation Christian Church 8300 W. Baseline Rd. - Laveen, AZ

Bible Study Enrichment Hour...9:30am Morning Worship....................11:00am Wednesday Prayer Meeting.....6:00pm Wednesday Bible Study...........7:00pm Pastor James N. Preston Pastor/Teacher Telephone 602-276-1006 Fax 602-276-4526

Pastor: Jimmy L. Johnson Sr.

Sun 9am • Wed 6pm Thu 7pm • Sat 10am-1pm Mailing: P.O. Box 20987 Phoenix 85066 602-206-6701 tnccc64@yahoo.com

NORTHWEST VALLEY

(623) 565-9798 • INFO@TOWEROFDELIVERANCEPHX.ORG

DISCOVER YOUR CHURCH HOME TODAY!

NORTHEAST VALLEY

10632 N. Scottsdale Rd. B 596 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024 19

Jesse Jackson To Lead Emergency Summit To Address Escalating Gaza Humanitarian Crisis

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Religious leaders and human rights advocates, led by Reverend Jesse Jackson, are preparing for what they call a vital emergency summit for Gaza. The “Call to Action” summit is scheduled at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition Headquarters in Chicago on Friday, January 12, and Saturday, January 13. Jackson told the Black Press the summit would “address the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, denounce violence against civilians, and urge immediate action to bring an end to the crisis.”

Organized by a coalition including the Rainbow Push Coalition, the Arab American Institute, and Cedars Mediterranean Kitchen, the summit will feature a diverse lineup of influential speakers, including Jackson, Dr. James Zogby (President of the Arab American Institute), columnist and political

commentator Peter Beinart, Congressman Johnathon Jackson, Congressman Chuy Garcia, and others.

The central focus of the summit is to condemn attacks on civilians and call for an immediate, permanent ceasefire. “We are faith leaders and advocates, united in this moment of moral reckoning to affirm the sanctity of all human life,” Jackson declared.

The organizers have unequivocally “condemned the Israeli government’s military siege and indiscriminate bombardment of Gaza.”

They said there’s a moral obligation to leverage collective power to end the escalation of death and ongoing humanitarian crises.

The coalition demands an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the rapid release of all Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners held without charges or due process, and they are calling on U.S. leadership

CULINARY

continued from page 4 • Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, president, National Association of Real Estate Brokers • Michelle Ngome, president, African American Marketing Association Phillip Yates, founder, Black Entrepreneurship Week & Latin Entrepreneurship Week • Yvonne Guidry, founder of SpoiledLatina Interactive breakout sessions, happy hour networking events and complimentary breakfast and lunch from notable Houston restaurants including Frenchy’s, Space City Birria Tacos and More, Henderson & Kane, Mo’ Better Brews, Cascabel, and The Breakfast

to facilitate unimpeded UN-supervised humanitarian aid in Gaza.

“I recommend that they let everyone out,” Jackson asserted. “The captives should be able to go home under the supervision of the United Nations, and anyone [bought to trial] should be done so in the World Court.”

Jackson and the rest of the coalition have also urged America to

Klub will complete the experience.

The Global Culinary Conference will become an annual event that unites culinary professions from around the world to share ideas, build networks and discuss the latest business growth trends to ensure the continued success of culinary businesses.

For more information about Feed the Soul Foundation’s Global Culinary Conference and to register, visit feedthesoulfou.org/global-culinary-conference. *** Since its inception in 2020, Feed The Soul Foundation has strived to create programs that provide sustainability and growth to small culinary businesses. By the first half of

HOMELESSNESS continued from page 1

While the latest report indicates progress in addressing homelessness, with HUD projecting to serve 330,000 people through increased grants to homeless service organizations, challenges persist. The expiration of resources from President Biden’s American Rescue Plan (ARP), the largest single-year investment in preventing and ending homelessness in U.S. history, has played a role in the current rise.

The 2023 Point-in-Time Count data underscored the urgency of the situation, revealing increases across various demographics: • Sheltered homelessness rose by 13.7 percent • Unsheltered homelessness rose by 9.7 percent • Homelessness among individuals rose by 10.8 percent • Homelessness among people in families with children rose by 15.5 percent • Homelessness among unaccompanied youth rose by 15.3 percent • Homelessness among veterans rose by 7.4 percent

abide by its regulations and condition funding to Israel on its adherence to U.S. law, like requirements for other nations receiving U.S. military financing.

The organizers collectively stressed that a ceasefire is just the beginning. The staggering civilian casualties underscore the belief that there is no military resolution that can bring justice for Palestinians

2023, the foundation celebrated the following milestones: • Invested $1,078,000 in financial and business development support to 59 margin-

• Chronic homelessness among individuals rose by 12 percent HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge acknowledged the gravity of the issue.

“Homelessness is solvable and should not exist in the United States,” Fudge declared. “From day one, this administration has put forth a comprehensive plan to tackle homelessness, and we’ve acted aggressively and in conjunction with our federal, state, and local partners to address this challenge. We’ve made positive strides, but there is still more work to be done.

This data underscores the urgent need for support for proven solutions and strategies that help people quickly exit homelessness and that prevent homelessness in the first place.”

The report further attributes the overall increase to a rise in the number of people experiencing homelessness for the first time, with a 25 percent increase between fiscal years 2021 and 2022. Data from the report emphasized the pressing need for sustained, collaborative efforts to combat homelessness and support vulnerable populations nationwide.

“HUD has substantially invested in addressing the housing needs of those facing homelessness, particularly the most vulnerable populations,” officials wrote in a release.

•

and security for Israelis, Jackson insisted. He said there should be a diplomatic solution to “end apartheid and occupation.”

Further, Jackson said the summit aims to build upon historical legacies and current global movements for peace, justice, and liberation.

The civil rights legend and other organizers expressed concern about rising anti-Semitic and anti-Arab incidents.

They have emphasized the need for unity. “We gather to build upon the historical legacy and current global movements for peace, justice, and liberation,” Jackson emphasized, before adding what he said in Lebanon some 40-plus years earlier.

“We do not seek to exchange sufferers, but rather to stop suffering.”

The summit will be broadcast via Zoom. Learn more at ranbowpush. org.

alized culinary business across the country • Emergency Relief Fund aided US-based culinary businesses with $46,000 in emergency funds to assist with unforeseen damages and natural disasters • Awarded $76,000 in scholarships to high school culinary programs, Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Hispanic Serving Institutions to support culinary, hospitality and business students • Developed internship program and distributed $59,000 in student stipends in addition to providing workforce training to 15 minority college students studying small business marketing, marketing research and public relations

CLASSIFIED •

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

The Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church is looking for a musician (piano, organ). Must maintain a high level of professionalism and punctuality in all aspects of the role.

Please contact Shafer Watkins information at 602-828-1344.

for

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