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DE BLASIO & CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCE NYC PLAN TO END HIV EPIDEMIC

New plan aims to dramatically reduce new HIV infections by 2020 through $23 million in new prevention & health care, as well as commitment to HASA For All.

“The Council and Administration’s joint investment will greatly reduce new HIV infections and improve the quality of life for those New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDs,” said Council Finance Chair Julissa Ferreras-Copeland.

“Our new health care programs build on the Council’s ongoing commitment to equalizing resources, and I thank Governor Cuomo, Mayor de Blasio and my colleagues in government as we work together to end the HIV/AIDs epidemic.”

Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, Mayor de Blasio and the New York City Council have announced a comprehensive commitment to end the AIDS epidemic in New York City through a number of new prevention and support programs, including $23 million in new prevention and health care programs – enabling nearly 200,000 people a year to receive services – as well as expanded housing, nutrition, and transportation support for up to 7,300 additional clients.

“New York City is fully committed to ensuring the health and security of all our residents,” said Speaker MarkViverito. “Our comprehensive plan will drastically reduce new HIV infections and will provide expanded supportive services for all New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS. I thank Governor Cuomo, Mayor de Blasio, Council Member Johnson and my Council colleagues for their partnership as we work together to eradicate HIV/AIDs from our City.”

“It’s time to end the AIDS epidemic once and for all,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “As we mark World AIDS Day, I’m proud to partner with the Council to announce an unprecedented $23 million more a year for prevention and health care, enabling nearly 200,000 people to receive services each year.

And we’re committing to expanding vital HASA housing, nutrition, and transportation support to all who need it – up to 7,300 more people a year – because no New Yorker living with HIV or AIDS should have to choose between medicine and rent.”

“It’s time to end the AIDS epidemic once and for all,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.

With 80 percent of the State’s HIV/AIDS cases in New York City, the plan draws on proven experience and science -setting an ambitious but achievable goal of bringing new HIV infections down in New York City to achieve the statewide goal of no more than 750 per year by 2020. In 2014, 2,718 New York City

Photo: Theepochtimes.com

“It’s time to end the AIDS epidemic once and for all.”

—Mayor Bill de Blasio

residents were newly diagnosed with HIV, a historical low representing a decrease of more than 35 percent from the 4,186 new HIV diagnoses in 2004.

The City’s plan draws upon the recommendations of New York State’s Ending the Epidemic Task Force report adopted earlier this year, and follows an initial $6.6 million commitment for preventative medicine, training, and viral suppression funded by the Council in the FY2016 budget.

The City – through the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Human Resources Administration, and NYC Health + Hospitals – served on the State’s Task Force.

The NYC Plan to End the Epidemic combines enhanced medical and social services with biomedical innovation into a comprehensive strategy to reduce new infections. The City is committing to enhancing HIV biomedical prevention and health care, as well as to working with the State and other partners to expand housing, nutrition, and transportation assistance (known as HASA For All), to decrease HIV transmission while

supporting the health and well-being of those with HIV or AIDS. “This major investment by Mayor de Blasio and the Council in the fight against HIV/AIDS will make a tremendous impact on the lives of thousands of New Yorkers,” said Council Member Corey Johnson, Chair of the Committee on Health. “With this announcement, New York City is truly stepping up to the plate in providing resources to end the scourge of HIV/AIDS in New York City.

This $23 million in new money aligns with Governor Cuomo’s blueprint and is rooted in science. We know how to prevent new infections and support those currently living with HIV/AIDS. I also look forward to working with Mayor de Blasio, Speaker Mark-Viverito, Governor Cuomo and advocates in finally ensuring critical rental, nutritional and transportation assistance is available for low-income HIV+ New Yorkers who are currently left behind. I want to thank Mayor de Blasio, Speaker MarkViverito, Commissioner Banks and Commissioner Bassett for all of their hard work in making today possible. The end of the epidemic is truly in sight.”

“The AIDS epidemic has taken the lives of far too many people in New York City and across the globe. Although we have made dramatic improvements in recent decades, there is much more that needs to be done to eradicate this disease. The steps taken today by this council in partnership with the Mayor is an ambitious plan that I believe will reduce the number of infections through education, screening, and enhanced medical services,” said Council Member Rafael L. Espinal.

The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will launch a $23 million per year prevention and health care plan that, when fully implemented, will enable nearly 200,000 people per year to receive services through the following initiatives: • Promote early initiation of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) in newly diagnosed individuals and maintenance of viral suppression in people with established disease. DOHMH’s sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics will rapidly initiate ART in people newly diagnosed with HIV, and the Department, working with community organizations, will enhance support for patients to take ART consistently and correctly. Patients that immediately start and continue on ART can live with a normal life expectancy and remain 90 percent less likely to transmit infection than people not taking ART. The administration and the Council are committed to working with the State and other partners to expand vital HIV/AIDS Services Administration (HASA) housing, nutrition, and transportation assistance to all eligible New Yorkers with HIV or AIDS – up to 7,300 additional clients by the year 2020.

INSIDE T HIS IS SUE :

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NATIONAL WORLD AIDS DAY REPORTS NEW LOW IN HIV DIAGNOSES The Health Department today released its 2014 HIV Surveillance Annual Report, which shows that the annual number of new HIV diagnoses in New York City has reached an all-time low, and, for the first time, includes data on HIV/ AIDS among transgender New Yorkers.

In 2014, 2,718 people were newly diagnosed with HIV in NYC, compared to 2,832 in 2013 and 4,397 people ten years prior in 2004, a reduction of more than 38 percent. Communities of color continue to be disproportionally affected by HIV and AIDS – Black and Hispanic men who have sex with men (MSM) continue to have the highest HIV diagnosis rates. The Health Department report also presents new information on HIV viral load suppression showing that the proportion of people in HIV care who achieve viral suppression increased from 69 percent in 2010 to 81 percent in 2014. Additionally, the Health Department announced the launch of #PlaySure, a media campaign that promotes the full range of HIV prevention tools to support safer sex practices among all New Yorkers, regardless of their HIV status.

The announcement was made by Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett during the 28th Annual World AIDS Day, an event at the Apollo Theater organized in partnership with the NYC World AIDS Day Coalition, a group of more than 60 local organizations working toward ending the HIV epidemic in New York City. At the event, Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Council Speaker Melissa Mark Viverito announced the NYC Plan to End the Epidemic, a 23 million dollar comprehensive effort to increase HIV prevention and health care

Photo: Byangshu Sarkar/AFP/Getty Images

“I am proud that we have reached another new low in 2014 for new HIV diagnoses in New York City, but we still have much work to do to end this epidemic.”

—Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett.

programming that will benefit nearly 200,000 New Yorkers per year when fully implemented. The plan aims to decrease HIV transmission in New York City by reducing the number of new annual HIV infections to match the statewide goal of no more than 750 cases per year by 2020. More details about NYC Plan to End the Epidemic can be found at the Office of the Mayor’s website.

“I am proud that we have reached another new low in 2014 for new HIV diagnoses in New York City, but we still have much work to do to end this epidemic,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “Last year more than 2,700 individuals were newly diagnosed with HIV – that is still too

many. Working together we must strive harder to reach those communities that bear the highest burden of HIV and AIDS. I am thankful to Mayor de Blasio and Governor Cuomo for their commitment of additional resources to ending the epidemic. I am hopeful that this, combined with the community’s ongoing dedication, will bring the number of new HIV infections to zero.”

“Ending the Epidemic in NYC means hastening the work we have already begun while implementing new technology at a historic pace,” said Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, Assistant Commissioner for the Health Department’s Bureau of HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control. “Translating plans into action, we call upon New

Yorkers and their healthcare providers to use all the tools in the HIV and STI prevention tool kit to keep our City healthy. This means people living with HIV need to look after their own health by engaging in care and achieving durable control of their viral load by taking HIV treatments consistently. HIV treatment keeps them healthy while reducing the risk of passing HIV by over 90%. PrEP is a daily pill that New Yorkers who are potentially exposed to HIV take to prevent infection. With PrEP, treatment of people with HIV as prevention, and the continued success of the NYC Condom program, New Yorkers will be able to customize a prevention plan using all these tools to allow them to leave fear behind and just #PlaySure to keep themselves and our City on target to End AIDS by 2020.”

HIV/AIDS Surveillance Data The Health Department’s most recent surveillance data report includes graphic trends in HIV diagnoses for key populations, maps displaying the distribution of HIV in NYC, and measures of key outcomes such as linkage to care, viral suppression, and mortality among people with HIV. For the first time, the Health Department is featuring a section on HIV among transgender New Yorkers, data on cigarette smoking rates among people with HIV compared with rates among the general NYC population, and measures of sexual risk behaviors among men and women with HIV. Overall, the report shows continued progress in reducing HIV diagnoses and deaths in NYC, in line with key goals of the state’s Ending the AIDS Epidemic initiative.

CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY GIVING THE GIFT OF HAPPINESS

The threat of terrorism is dominating headlines and making safety top of mind for New Yorkers as the holiday season begins.

In a joint effort to help increase holiday happiness and peace in trying times, parishioners from three local Church of Scientology organizations distributed tens of thousands of The Way to Happiness booklets at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The booklet might be summed up with one of the guides in it which is a modern, and democratic, version of “The Golden Rule.” It is something people everywhere of all persuasions can agree with: Try to treat others as you would want them to treat you. The booklets were donated by local businesses and individuals.

The Way to Happiness is a nonreligious moral code based 2

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affecting lives and helping individuals bring out the best in themselves,” said Church of Scientology of Harlem Director of Special Affairs Sharon Garrett. “As we head into the holiday season, it is our hope that our efforts will help increase some of that good will and cheer toward our fellows.”

Participants hail from three churches located in NYC—ones in the Times Square area, on the Upper East Side and in Harlem.

on common sense. Written and published by L. Ron Hubbard in 1981, the booklet’s purpose is to help restore basic moral values to people. The Way to Happiness is available in over 100 languages— garnering the Guinness World Record as the single most-

translated nonreligious book—and some 115 million copies have been distributed in 186 nations. It is also available in video form at www. thewaytohappiness.org.

“Though simple, people across the world have found this booklet a powerful punch in positively

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The efforts come as local Scientologists gear up for the opening of the Church of Scientology of Harlem’s new building and community center, which flank the NYC Public Library on East 125th Street in Harlem.

More information on the Church of Scientology of Harlem can be found at http://www.scientologyharlem.org/. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

IN THE NEWS

CONGRESSMAN REINTRODUCES ANTI-HUNGER EMPOWERMENT ACT

Congressman José E. Serrano released the following statement on the reintroduction of the Anti-Hunger Empowerment Act of 2015.

The bill was originally introduced by Congressman Serrano during the 109th Congress as a way to replace administrative cost provisions within in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to expand its ability to provide nutrition assistance to communities facing hunger insecurity.

“The holiday season is quickly approaching us, and for many of us the holidays are a time filled with togetherness, festivities, and food,” said Congressman Serrano. “Sadly, millions of individuals and families will spend this season worrying about when their next meal is

hardship. Every household should have access to quality and nutritious food, and this legislation will help achieve that goal.”

This legislation would: • Establish the Beyond the Soup Kitchen Grant Program to provide funds to communitybased and faith-based charitable feeding organizations to expand their grassroots anti-hunger activities. These activities include providing nutrition education and helping individuals enroll in federal food assistance programs.

coming from or go without food altogether.

“No child or individual should have to go hungry in this country.

The Anti-Hunger Empowerment Act of 2015 would allow the

US Department of Agriculture to ensure a greater utilization of SNAP funding by food pantries, soup kitchens, and other charitable feeding programs to provide more meals to communities facing food

• E xpand the number of hours supplemental nutrition assistance office are open and reduce wait times at SNAP offices.

•R emove burdensome and duplicative requirements that deter eligible Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients from applying.

STUDENTS AWARDED CON EDISON GRANT Emely Gutierrez and Jayden Jones got an unforgettable lesson in mapping, ecology and history recently all within the time it took them to visit the Hudson River Museum as part of Con Edison’s STEM Days Out program.

Glenview (a restored 19th-century home), a 450-seat amphitheater and other features.

Emely and Jayden, sixthgraders at Museum 25 School in Yonkers, were beaming after their visit, which also included seventh-graders from Palisade Preparatory School.

• Wave Hill and the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx,

“The Hudson River has been a resource to us for a long time and we want it to stay that way, so it’s important that we keep it clean,” said Jayden, describing his most important lesson from the tour.

• The American Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of Math, and the Intrepid in Manhattan,

Emely said she enjoyed peering through binoculars and looking across the iconic waterway from the museum’s Riverama room.

“You could see the beauty of what nature has made,” she said.

Con Edison’s STEM Days Out provides $25,000 grants to each of nine cultural institutions in New York City and Westchester County. The museums use the grants to enrich young people’s knowledge of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Students who visit the Hudson River Museum as part of STEM NewYorkTrendnyc

STEM Days Out events are held the first Wednesday of each month through May 2016. Title I public middle school classes are visiting:

• The Brooklyn Children’s Museum,

“The museum and its wonderful staff give these young people the chance to experience the sights and sounds of the Hudson River..”

—Hilary S. Ayala Director of Strategic Partnerships for Con Edison

Days Out see how Native Americans made canoes, learn the history of mapping the river, and view exhibits on the river’s place in the ecosystem. In the museum’s planetarium, they see the wonders of astronomy.

“You see the excited looks on the faces of the children who visit the museum and you just know they’re fascinated and curious,” said Hilary S. Ayala, director

of Strategic Partnerships for Con Edison. “The museum and its wonderful staff give these young people the chance to experience the sights and sounds of the Hudson River, one of our area’s most famous and important resources.”

The museum has a long history as an important cultural institution in Westchester. It was founded in 1919 and includes art collections,

December 10, 2015 - December 16, 2015

• The New York Hall of Science in Queens, • The Staten Island Museum and • The Hudson River Museum in Westchester.

Con Edison provides more than $10 million in financial and in-kind contributions to students and nonprofits in New York City and Westchester that enhance STEM education.

Funding includes support for scholarships to students majoring in STEM fields, as well as program support for summer internships. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

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GUEST COMMENTARY BERNIE CAN WIN, PART TWO!

By Ted Glick Those Bernie supporters who saw media reports yesterday of the latest national Presidential poll by Quinnipiac couldn’t feel too good about the results. Quinnipiac had Hillary ahead by 30 percentage points, 60-30. News stories I saw also said that the poll reported that more Hillary supporters than Bernie supporters were firm in their choice, not open to changing it.

Other polls over the last couple of weeks have been similar, though closer. ABC/Washington Post had it 60-34 for Hillary on November 22. Also on the 22nd Fox had it 5532. On the 20th Bloomberg had it 55-30 and on the 17th Rasmussen had it 50-29.

However, and it’s a big however, Quinnipiac also polled on head-tohead match-ups between Hillary and the four leading Republicans— Trump, Carson, Rubio and Cruz-and did the same with Bernie. In this polling both Hillary and Bernie came out ahead in every case, but there was a very surprising result: Bernie did better than Hillary in three of the four match-ups, and they were tied in the fourth.

Hillary’s average polling margin was 3¾%; Bernie’s was 6¼%.

How can this be explained? I’d say it’s because, first of all, Bernie is getting more well-known as his campaign keeps rolling along.

He was relatively unknown, compared to Clinton, when he first

announced. That has definitely changed for the better.

Secondly, the Clintons, both Bill and Hillary, are polarizing figures. They’ve got an awful lot of baggage, and that is probably translating into less support for Hillary from independents compared to actual independent Bernie Sanders. Most independents are that way because they have problems with both the Republican and Democratic parties, and Hillary is nothing if not a Democratic Party person, deep into it for decades, including all of the corporate culture and corporate money that has such a big influence.

It sure seems like major media should report on this out-in-theopen polling win for Bernie.

This polling win points to Bernie’s path to victory: building an alliance between progressive Democrats, progressive independents, a small percentage of moderate Republicans disgusted by what has happened to their party, and other moderates/centrists who might have concerns about Bernie’s democratic socialism but have even greater concerns about ultra-rightist extremism rampant within the Republican Party.

Of course, for this to happen, Bernie needs to win the Democratic Party nomination.

He needs to win or come close in the Iowa caucuses and the same in New Hampshire. He probably needs to actually win at least one of those elections. These results will undoubtedly lead more people to check him out, more doubts about Hillary and momentum going into the elections in South Carolina, Nevada, Super Tuesday March 1 and beyond.

All of this is possible based on current polling in Iowa and New Hampshire. Bernie is also doing well from a fund-raising standpoint— though there’s a definite need for more people to contribute—and from the standpoint of using his refusal to accept super PAC money as a reason why people should support him.

Finally, but by no means least, he is doing a good job of rolling out more specific policy proposals whose content, by and large, is consistently progressive, though he is not taking pacifist or hardleft positions. There is certainly constructive criticism to be made of aspects of his overall platform, but any objective assessment of

it as found on his website and as reflected in his public speeches and statements must conclude that, if elected, Bernie will lead our country in a very different, hopeful, much needed and much more progressive direction than Hillary Clinton.

KEEP IT UP, BERNIE!

WRITERS WANTED New York Trend and www.newyorktrendnyc.com is seeking contributors in the following areas: Finance, Entertainment, Politics, Business and Commentary.

Send letters of inquiry to nytrendnyc@gmail.com.

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MUSIC LEGENDARY CHAKA KHAN COMING TO KINGS THEATER

Jammin Events presents an ‘Evening With Chaka Khan’ at the Kings Theater on February 19th at 8 p.m.

“She [Chaka] sings like my horn.”

And the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin says, “[Chaka] is a oneof- a -kind, premier vocalist.”

Chaka was most recently on Dancing With The Stars. Joining Chaka Khan will be vocalist Vivian Greene.

Throughout her legendary career, Chaka has released 22 albums and racked up ten #1 Billboard magazine charted songs, seven RIAA certified gold singles and ten RIAA certified gold and platinum albums. Chaka’s recorded music has produced over 2,000 catalogue song placements. “I am honored and blessed to celebrate 40 years in music and entertainment” says Chaka. “I am so humbled by the love, support and gracious spirit of my fans worldwide and the continuous support my peers have shown over the years. Throughout my 40-year career, I have been through the fire a few times over and I’m still here as a living testament to God’s love and grace.

Next year, I will be celebrating 40 years in the business and 60 years on earth, which equals one hundred percent Chaka.”

Chaka Khan is one of the world’s most gifted and celebrated musicians, with a rich musical legacy, the 10-time GRAMMY® Award-winner is looking forward to a celebration of a lifetime.

A songwriter, actor, author, philanthropist, entrepreneur and activist, Chaka Khan has influenced generations of recording artists. She has the rare ability to sing in seven music genres, including R&B, pop, rock, gospel, country, world music and classical. Affectionately known around the world as Chaka, she is revered by millions of fans as well as her peers for hertimeless, classic and unmatched signature music style and ability. The late, great Miles Davis often said,

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MUSIC

MELI’SA MORGAN NEW SINGLE “SO GOOD”

and I hope that my loyal fans (and hopefully, new ones!) will enjoy the song as much as I enjoyed singing it.”

Legendary R&B Recording Artist Meli’sa Morgan, releases her new single “So Good” today on Itunes - The official first single from her highly anticipated music project with new reformed RFC/ Fresh Records.

After re-emerging to the spotlight thanks to TV One’s doc- series “UnSung”, Meli’sa returns to her passion of music. It’s been 10 years since Morgan released a new single.” When she gave you memorable ballads with top Billboard hits like “Love Changes,” “Do Me Baby,” and “Do You Still Love Me,” and her mega mid tempo dance hit “Fool’s Paradise”.

With the New Year quickly approaching, Meli’sa is preparing to carve a new path along the trail of R&B Soul, Dance, and Pop Music.

“So Good,” is written and produced by prolific house DJ Lenny Fontana. It’s a soaring disco/R&B track that takes you on a lyrical journey, that will captivate listeners to grove upon first listen of everyone who hears it. http://www.soultracks.com/ first-listen-melisa-morganso-good Meli’sa states: “It’s what I call a female version of ‘Uptown Funk.’

I wanted a powerful track that my vocals could dance and move around the chords to with ease.

Lenny gave me the type of track that got my vocal affectations excited. This is the real me now,

It’s a mere prelude of what longtime fans and new ones can expect from Meli’sa Morgan’s return. “So Good” is available on all digital music outlets today.

BABYFACE SETS RELEASE FOR “RETURN OF THE TENDER LOVER”

Houston, Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, Mariah Carey, Madonna, Eric Clapton, Colbie Caillat, Jennifer Hudson, Michael Jackson, Toni Braxton, and Aretha Franklin.

The brand new album from Babyface, RETURN OF THE TENDER LOVER on Def Jam Recordings has shipped to radio featuring the new single, “Exceptional.” High profile television appearances and performances continue for Babyface who appeared on ABC’s The View (December 8th), Good Morning America (December 9th), and Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live, also on Dec. 9th.

Babyface was the featured guest on Steve Harvey’s nationally syndicated radio show on December 7th and also was a guest on Tom Joyner’s show on December 10th. Babyface is touring through the end of December in the U.S. with more dates to be announced for 2016 in support of his new album.

Babyface: Return Of The Tender Lover said BET, “[will] capture all of Babyface’s cool moments during a rehearsal of five songs from the musician’s upcoming RETURN OF THE TENDER LOVER album … Loaded with footage from the making of the album’s first single We’ve Got Love and a peek inside his home with interviews with Babyface and L.A. Reid, and rare performance footage of El DeBarge.”

Babyface stole the show at Sunday night’s Soul Train Music Awards spectacular. After receiving the Legend Award, he was joined by a number of artists for collabs on songs he’d written/produced, including Tevin Campbell, Brandy, Fantasia, Bobby Brown, and Boyz II Men. RETURN OF THE TENDER LOVER is the 10th studio album by the poignant tunesmith, prolific hit maker/ producer, NewYorkTrendnyc

Earlier this year, Babyface shared the Best R&B Album Grammy Award® with multi-platinum 7-time Grammy Award®-winner Toni Braxton for Love, Marriage & Divorce, released February 2014 on Def Jam Recordings. The album took off behind “Hurt You,” the Urban AC #1 duet hit co-written by Toni Braxton & Babyface (with Daryl Simmons and Antonio Dixon), and produced

by Babyface, who handled all guitar, drums, and keyboard programming on the track. “Hurt You” hit Top 40 pop and R&B, and rose to #1 on the Adult R&B Songs chart, where it spent more than six months.

Love, Marriage & Divorce was Babyface’s first new studio album in nearly seven years, since Playlist (September 2007), which hit Top 10 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart on the strength of his Top 10 AC version of James Taylor’s “Fire & Rain.” superstar recording artist, and revolutionary label owner Babyface.

The album is filled with eight beautiful new original tracks of unapologetic R&B, intended to bring feel-good grooves back to music. Babyface plays on every track on the album including, although not limited to, his amazing and widely-praised guitar work.

RETURN OF THE TENDER LOVER’s title commemorates and pays homage to Babyface’s breakthrough album of

1989, the RIAA triple-platinum Tender Lover. His second studio LP, it spun off a quartet of career-defining solo R&B/ pop cross¬over hits, “It’s No Crime” (#1), “Tender Love”(#1), “Whip Appeal” (#2), and “My Kinda Girl” (#3).

Babyface reigns as one the most prolific and successful producers in pop music history. A sample of the artists he has produced and written (or co-written) hits for would include Barbra Streisand, Whitney

December 10, 2015 - December 16, 2015

Babyface made his Broadway musical debut in a leading role in 2014, when he and Toni Braxton joined the cast of the Broadway musical After Midnight as “Special Guest Star” vocalists, for a limited engage¬ment run. After Midnight reintroduced the Cotton Club’s exciting tradition of welcoming contemporary artists in limited engagements throughout the musical’s 272-performance run at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

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ART & FILM FIRST MULTICULTURAL TELEVISION & MEDIA EXPO IN NYC The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) will host the first multicultural Television & Media Expo to provide broadcasters the opportunity to promote programming and showcase diversity initiatives to more than 7,000 consumers. The ABFF Television & Media Expo will take place in New York City, June 13 and 14, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the New York Hilton Midtown.

The ABFF Television & Media Expo is a unique, two-day promotional event for network, cable, and Internet/digital media broadcasters during the 19th annual ABFF, June 11–14.

This expo will provide an open forum for companies to generate awareness and excitement their brand and to create a word-ofmouth and positive experience with the ABFF consumer.

“The success of today’s multicultural programming proves that Americans want to see a diverse cross section of our world on television, as well as at the

(Supporting); and Uptown Magazine and The YBF (Media Partners).

Taraji P. Henson 2015 Ambassador

movies. We have found that diverse programming translates into boxoffice and ratings success and is a true reflection of our nation. We are excited to offer companies the opportunity to connect with multicultural consumers and talent in this unique way,” states Film Life Inc. CEO Jeff Friday.

Expo participants include HBO®, Comcast Xfinity, NBCUniversal,

TV One, UP TV and Aspire.

Sponsors of the 2015 American Black Film Festival, to date, are HBO® (Presenting & Founding); TV One (Presenting); Cadillac, Comcast NBCUniversal and Prudential Financial Services (Premier); American Airlines, AMC Theatres and McDonald’s (Signature); Motion Picture Association of America

For festival passes, tickets and film submission information, www.

ABFF.com.

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is a four-day event dedicated to showcasing quality film and television content by and about people of African descent.

Annually held during the month of June, the ABFF is committed to the belief that black artists and content creators deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts. ABFF Founder Jeff Friday conceived the idea for the festival in 1997 as a vehicle to promote diversity in the motion picture industry.

Today, the festival is widely recognized for showcasing established and new black talent, both in front of and behind the camera, and is regarded as one of the leading film festivals in the world. The ABFF is produced

by Film Life Inc. and BLACK ENTERPRISE.

U.S. SBA UNVEILS VIDEO SERIES TO HIGHLIGHT ENTREPRENEURS to follow their passion in business and make them competitive in the global marketplace,” said SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet. “Studies show that Millennials represent the most diverse age group in history. Together, we will support President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Initiative by training young people in many of our underserved communities with SBA resources, so that they can dream big and propel the entrepreneurial spirit of their generation forward.”

Mike Muse & Ty Hunter

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s My Brother’s Keeper Initiative is unveiling a new video series hosted by Mike Muse, the SBA MBK Millennial Entrepreneur Champion. Muse engages with several successful Millennial entrepreneurs in the world of music, fashion and technology as they reveal their innermost truths about their paths to and through entrepreneurship. Celebrity Stylist and Designer, Ty Hunter (Beyoncé, ServedFresh™), jumpstarts the series and talks about his path in transitioning from working in the healthcare industry before following 8

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his passion of fashion and styling.

Host, Mike Muse, gets Hunter to speak candidly on how he’s building his personal brand, risks and fears, success, his time working with Beyoncé and why he compares himself to Janet Jackson.

“I am proud to announce the launch of this exciting new video series showcasing our MBK Champion Mike Muse and the incredible talent and success stories of Millennium entrepreneurs in lifestyle industries. Through the stories of these successful entrepreneurs we want to inspire and empower millennials to discover the resources

“It was such an honor to be a part of the My Brother’s Keeper Millennial Entrepreneurs Initiative,” said Ty Hunter. This project has allowed me to tell my life story, all the ups and downs of it and in the process, hopefully, motivate others in a positive way. What made me jump on this project so quickly was the great way it highlights men of color from every aspect of life, which is so important. It was an awesome experience and a moment I will cherish forever,” Hunter continued.

The SBA and Mike Muse are building upon momentum from the Champion initiative. Last month, Mike Muse and the SBA, in

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collaboration with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and Overbrook Entertainment, held the first ever Careers in Film Summit in the Goldwyn Theatre at the Academy in Los Angeles.

The summit aimed to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs through highlighting the careers and entrepreneurial opportunities available in the film industry.

“As this generation begins to reach the peak age for entrepreneurship, the initiative seeks to inform, engage and inspire them,” said Mike Muse.

“From how to impact with social media to funding and monetizing your personal brand, what sets each video apart is that they are, in fact, a deconstructed business plan showcasing how Millennials can start their own companies on their own terms,” Muse added.

The MBK Millennial Entrepreneur Champion video series will debut on www.BizMyWay.com (#BizMyWay) with Ty Hunter during Global Entrepreneurship Week on November 16, continuing with Reggie Miller, founder of Iced Media and Jason Mowatt, CoFounder of Trillectro. Additional entrepreneurs will be announced in the coming. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

ART & FILM

THE WEEKEND, BRUNO MARS & MARK RONSON LED SOUL TRAIN AWARDS WINNERS SOUL TRAIN AWARDS 2015 WINNERS

SOUL TRAIN AWARDS 2015 celebrated the greatest legends of soul music alongside today’s brightest new stars at the unforgettable show, which aired on CENTRIC and BET November 29, 2015. The evening was the hippest trip led by the illest chick, Erykah Badu, who opened the night by performing a medley of her memorable hits including “Danger,” “On & On,” and “Love of My Life.”

The Weeknd led the pack of winners with Best R&B/Soul Male Artist and Album of the Year while Mark Ronson Ft. Bruno Mars also took home two awards for Video of the Year and Song of the Year for “Uptown Funk.” Artists were honored in 12 different categories and additional winners included Jidenna (Best New Artist), Kendrick Lamar (Best Hip-Hop Song of the Year), Tyrese (Centric Certified Award), and more. The full list of winners is below.

The Weekend

Bruno Mars

Campbell. Jill Scott was presented with the first-ever Lady of Soul Award with a special tribute video from industry’s top executives and artists such as Whoopi Goldberg, Usher and more speaking to Scott’s energy and creativity. Scott blew the crowd away with a selection of her most beloved hits including “Back Together,” “Long Walk,” “It’s Love,” “Golden,” “Cross My Mind,” and “Whatever.” Additional singers that took the stage were Tyrese, Jeremih, Cameo, Lion Babe, Jazmine Sullivan, Erica Campbell, V. Bozeman, Tasha

Cobbs and After 7. R&B favorite R. Kelly closed out the show with some of his hottest tracks including “Your Body’s Callin’,” “When A Woman’s Fed Up,” “Ignition,” “Mind’s Tellin’ Me,” “Step In…” and his brand new single “Backyard Party,” throwing his own dance party on stage to celebrate.

For nearly forty years the Rocky franchise has entertained the world with its mostly well crafted stories, engaging characters and exciting boxing. Now nearly a decade after the finale, a new franchise takes root where the torch is passed on to a new main character, the son of Apollo Creed. Can the film prove its worth or is it merely a fraud?

a young boxer whose had some hard times finds friendship in an old mentor and an unexpected chance against a world champion.

However, it manages to re-craft that old formula and refreshes it while still paying homage. The story follows Adonis Creed the son of Apollo Creed who aspires to become a great boxer like his father while establishing his own name. He travels to Philadelphia so he can be trained by Rocky Balboa himself but soon finds himself having to prove his worth to the entire world. The main focus and theme of this film is having to carry the burden of such a powerful name and being seen as an imposter rather than the person you are. This conflict is one that haunts Adonis throughout the film and its one of the many aspects that not only allows this film to be its own creation but allows for some great conflict and development for the character, The film in a whole feels like a journey as we see Adonis go through his training, his trials and growing sense of family with Rocky. The film is well paced and manages to deliver its story beautifully while keeping a strong energy about it. Only criticism I have is the ending. The ending is uplifting but uses the same storyline as its predecessors, which ended up being irksome.

The story for Creed feels very reminiscent of the original Rocky.

It follows that very same formula:

Adonis Creed is a very likeable character and one that’s instantly easy to root for. Seeing how

the whole world works against him, even as a child is enough to make him sympathetic. He is a stark juxtaposition to his father.

There’s impatience in him, even anger, as he carries a heavy chip on his shoulder as opposed to his father’s bombastic and dramatic personality which makes him a very interesting and different character. Of course you can’t have a main character in a film like this without his mentor and Rocky makes for an excellent mentor character. He feels very reminiscent of Mickey in wanting to push his boxer to be all he can be while caring for him deeply.

The relationship between the two is truly touching as a sense of family grows, which makes for some great dramatic and moving moments. The relationship and chemistry of the characters is the true meat of the movie and their characters by themselves made the whole film worthwhile.

The antagonistic boxer of the film is Ricky Conlan and is a terrible opponent character. His motivation to fight Adonis is simple: he’s going to jail for a few years and wants to fight once more to make money to provide for his sons while he’s away. Bianca is Adonis’ love interest, but, I found myself not caring about her character. It isn’t the character so much but rather her relationship with Adonis which happens quickly and lacks any charm to it. Personally, after seeing this same story told countless times it has become boring.

During the star-studded broadcast L.A. Reid presented Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds with the Legend Award.

After accepting the accolade, the celebrated producer and R&B legend performed some of his classics with Brandy, Fantasia, surprise guest Bobby Brown, Boyz II Men and Tevin

Michael B. Jordan gives a fantastic performance as Adonis.

By Jonathan Gonzalez, NY Trend Film Critic

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Alongside all the amazing performances, Erykah Badu, Chrisette Michele, K-Ci, Lalah Hathaway and Eddie Levert appeared in the first-ever Soul Train Soul Cypher.

December 10, 2015 - December 16, 2015

Best New Artist – Jidenna Best R&B/Soul Male Artist – The Weeknd Centric Certified Award – Tyrese Video of the Year – Mark Ronson Ft. Bruno Mars – “Uptown Funk” Best Gospel and/or Inspirational Song – Lecrae – “All I Need Is You” Album of the Year – The Weeknd “Beauty Behind the Madness” Best Hip-Hop Song of the Year – Kendrick Lamar – “Alright” Best R&B/Soul Female Artist – Jill Scott Song of the Year – Mark Ronson Ft. Bruno Mars – “Uptown Funk” The Ashford & Simpson Songwriter’s Award – “Glory” (From the Motion Picture “Selma”) – Written By: Lonnie Rashid Lynn, John Roger Stephens and Che Smith (Common & John Legend) Best Dance Performance – Silento – Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae) Best Collaboration – Omarion Ft. Chris Brown & Jhené Aiko – “Post To Be”

Michael B. Jordan gives a fantastic performance as Adonis.

He conveys the struggles of the character perfectly as well as being charming and immersive.

Like the character himself, Jordan manages to create a performance all his own and establish himself as both a perfect hero and a grand lead.

Sylvester Stallone, has no choice but to let his ego and hubris take a back seat, gives one of his best performances in years. He still does a good Rocky Balboa but even better is his chemistry with Jordan, which is endearing and entertaining.

While not having much to work with, Tessa Thompson as Bianca, is still enjoyable. Despite the poor writing, the relationship works between Jordan and Thompson.

Tony Bellew as Conlan, is intimidating and fierce, and does make for a great opponent, even though his character has poor motivations for being cruel.

Final Thoughts: Many people say that Creed is a great addition to the Rocky franchise. I strongly disagree with that. It is not a great addition but rather a great start.

It is a film all its own, despite its connections and I hope, that this great beginning is one that leads to a long and fantastic franchise.

This film sought to pass the torch and it succeeded with flying colors. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

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BUSINESS LIAACC INSTALLS SUFFOLK COUNTY DIRECTOR On November 16, 2015 at the H. Lee Dennison Building,100 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge, New York, Kimberly Grant-Bynoe was installed as the Suffolk County Director for the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. by the Honorable Judge William Ford. William G. Ford is a judgeelect of the Supreme Court 10th Judicial District in New York.

The agenda for the installation was as follows: Invocation Pastor Jamaal Bernard Christian Cultural Center - Long Island ,African American National Anthem Shardae Hale Lift Every Voice & Sing Cornerstone Church of God In Christ, Welcome/Mission Statement Phil Andrews, President LIAACC, Video Presentation, Drum Performance Edwina Lee Tyler Master African Drummer, Performance by Shadrack Boakye, The Truth Urban Theatre, Remarks & Award Presentations Vanessa Pugh, Chief Deputy Commissioner

Pictured: Phil Andrews, President, Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., Kimberly Grant-Bynoe, Suffolk County Director, Honorable Judge William Ford

Proclamations/ Citations Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing & Consumer Affairs.

Honoree: Economic Development Award Community Service Award - Tonya Lewter-Gordon, New Millennium Development Services, Inc.

Honoree: Community Service Award Tanya Whittmore, Healthfirst Honoree: Small Business Paula Turpin-Miller Truly Blessed Styles Honoree: Hospitality Award Vera Schenck Black Diamond Soul Food Caterers

Installation Ceremony: Honorable Judge William Ford Remarks: Kimberly Grant-Bynoe, Suffolk County Director LIAACC Final Remarks: Sharon Davis, Vice President LIAACC Closing Prayer: Pastor Marcel J. Snuggs, Harvest Christian Bible Church Citations were provided by Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, Deputy Majority Leader Assemblyman Phil Ramos, and the 9th New York State Assembly District Suffolk County Legislator Monica Martinez, Kimberly Jean Pierre 11th Legislative District Office to Kimberly Grant-Bynoe citing her installation, each of the honorees and citations presented to the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. marking this historic occasion.

For more information regarding membership, corporate sponsorship opportunities, or to be placed on the email list of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. visit us @ www.liaacc.org or call 347-475-7158.

OFFICIAL ONLINE STORE LAUNCHES FOR MEGA-HIT EMPIRE

com and back on to the television through Delivery Agent’s ShopTV® t-commerce app.”

Ever wonder how you could expand your wardrobe to rival Cookie Lyon’s glitz and glam portrayed on FOX’s hit television show, EMPIRE? EMPIRE will once again cross from on-screen to reallife to bring consumers apparel, accessories and jewelry inspired by the show. Twentieth Century FOX Consumer Products, in collaboration with Delivery Agent, a leading digital commerce technology company, is launching the “official EMPIRE commerce experience” today along with a $1,000 EMPIRE holiday shopping spree sweepstakes.

At the center of the experience, http://EmpireFoxShop.com will offer an eclectic shopping metropolis of fashion and accessories inspired by the hit FOX series targeting all ages and demographics. Fans can find EMPIRE pattern jersey dresses, varsity jackets and casual vests as well as soon to be rolled-out home goods. All the products are seen-on or inspired-by the groundbreaking series that delves into the glamorous and always unpredictable world of Hip-Hop & R&B music.

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connecting fans to the program even after the fall finale concludes on Dec 2nd.

Having taken TV audiences by storm in its record-setting first season, EMPIRE returned this season as the No. 1 series on broadcast television, averaging 22.9 million viewers across multiple platforms, as well as being the most tweeted-about scripted program on broadcast television this season on Twitter. Only two all-new episodes of EMPIRE remain this fall, with its fall finale airing Wednesday, Dec. 2 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. EMPIRE begins Part Two of its second season Wednesday, March 30 (9:0010:00 PM ET/PT).

In regards to the announcement, Peter Leeb, Vice President, Global Brand Management & Strategy, Twentieth Century FOX Consumer Products stated: “We are thrilled to uniquely extend the global phenomenon of EMPIRE through a shopping experience accessible across the platforms that fans use to engage with the show from Twitter to YouTube to Fox.

“We are here to champion and support FOX’s vision and goal of celebrating EMPIRE’S loyal fans and their role in pop-culture,” said Mike Fitzsimmons, Delivery Agent Chief Executive Officer.

“Now millions of fans have the opportunity to shop EMPIRE across screens and devices extending their involvement with the hit show.”

Cast of Empire

To celebrate the grand opening of the “official EMPIRE commerce experience,” and in conjunction with Black Friday, one of the biggest retail days of the year, fans will have access to exclusive, never-before-seen products at special limited-time pricing, along with free shipping. The “official Empire commerce experience” will continually offer new styles and make the current holiday season an adventurous opportunity to provide unique gifts for EMPIRE lovers;

December 10, 2015 - December 16, 2015

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NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS IN NYC’S FIVE BOROUGHS

NYC & Company, New York City’s destination marketing organization, invites New Yorkers and visitors alike to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the five boroughs. With festive events in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island, including the annual ball drop in Times Square, New York City continues the tradition of being the New Year’s Eve capital of the world.

“From the iconic ball drop in Times Square to the simulated ball drop in Coney Island, New York City has no shortage of events and activities that make it a quintessential New Year’s Eve destination, said Fred Dixon, NYC & Company president and CEO. “We will once again host visitors from around the globe for a multitude of unique celebrations, setting 2016 off to an unforgettable beginning.”

More than 100 million television viewers in the United States and more than 1 billion people worldwide are expected to join the estimated 1 million revelers in New York City to watch a 109-year-old tradition: the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. A 12-foot-diameter geodesic sphere covered in 2,688 Waterford crystals, the ball weighs 11,875 pounds and is powered by 32,256 Philips Luxeon Rebel LED lights, capable of creating a palette of more than 16 million vibrant colors. At 11:59pm, the ball begins its descent atop One Times Square as millions of people count down the final seconds of the year and celebrate the beginning of a new year.

Must-see New Year’s Eve events taking place in Times Square include: New Year’s Eve Wishing Wall: Each New Year’s Eve when the ball drops at midnight, Times Square is showered with confetti upon which thousands of people worldwide have written their wishes. Individuals can submit wishes in person at the Wishing Wall or online via timessquarenyc.org (page available in English, Spanish and French). All wishes are collected and added to the confetti that rains down onto the square as 2016 begins. Starting in December, the Mobile Wishing Wall will be available in New York City.

See timessquarenyc.org for specific locations and times.

Good Riddance Day: The Times Square Alliance and Shred-it will once again come together to put on a Good Riddance Day celebration in Times Square, where anyone can bid their bad memories of 2015 a hearty farewell. Old love letters, cellphones and pink slips alike all can be brought to be shredded or destroyed with NewYorkTrendnyc

house calls to revive and reaffirm friendships. House tours, 19th century readings on New Year’s Day celebrations, punch and confections will all be part of the festivities, as well as a holiday raffle drawing. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit merchantshouse.org.

a mobile shredding truck or mallet with rubber matt available for attendees on December 28 from noon to 1pm. Available on Shredit’s website is a form to be entered into the contest to win a trip to NYC for Good Riddance Day and New Year’s Eve. Those who can’t make it to Times Square can submit things to be shredded via the website shredit. com or tweet with the hashtag #GoodRiddanceDay. Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve: Since 2006, Ryan Seacrest has hosted the number one Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. Featuring live performances including headliner Carrie Underwood, the show will begin at 8pm, continuing through the night. In addition to Underwood’s performance, actress and comedian Jenny McCarthy will report live from Times Square while popstar Fergie returns to host the Billboard Hollywood Party. For more information, go to dickclark. com.

The Bronx: New York Botanical Garden: As a part of the 2015–2016 annual Holiday Train Show, Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends will be taking children and their families on a memorable singalong adventure as they decorate the station. The event runs from January 2 to 24, with select show times, and parents are encouraged to bring cameras for photo opportunities with Thomas. Visit nybg.org for tickets and the full performance schedule.

Brooklyn: Prospect Park Fireworks: Visitors and locals can New Year’s Eve in Prospect Park under Brooklyn’s beautiful annual fireworks display at midnight, sponsored by Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.

This event is free and open to all ages

and includes hot refreshments and entertainment. The Grand Army Plaza, along West Drive in Prospect Park, and along Prospect Park West between Grand Army Plaza and 95th Street are the best places to see the spectacular fireworks show. For more information, visit prospectpark.org.

Manhattan: New York Philharmonic: On New Year’s Eve, Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall will resound with French delights like Offenbach’s CanCan and Saint-Saëns’s Carnival of the Animals among others for the New York Philharmonic’s La Vie Parisienne. Pianist Makoto Ozone, artist-in-association Inon Barnatan and mezzo-soprano Susan Graham will make guest appearances and headline the fantastic show, conducted by Alan Gilbert. For more information, visit nyphil.org.

Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine: The Cathedral Choir, Orchestra, and soloist Jamet Pittman will be joined by guests Judy Collins, Jason Robert Brown, and host Harry Smith of NBC News for this year’s New Year’s Eve Concert for Peace at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine. For more than 25 years, the show has brought people together to bring in the New Year with peace, which will this year feature Leonard Bernstein’s work, with a performance of his Chichester Psalms. A limited number of general admission seats are free and open to the public. Later in the evening, a special late-night service will be held to ring in the New Year. For more information, visit stjohndivine.org.

Merchant’s House Museum: On New Year’s Day, the Merchant’s House Museum in the East Village will be re-creating one of old New York’s cherished traditions—paying

December 10, 2015 - December 16, 2015

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises: For an exciting twist on the classic Circle Line cruise, ships will take guests to the Statue of Liberty to watch the annual fireworks show. The party cruise includes hors d’oeuvres, a full open bar, party favors, a DJ, and a midnight champagne toast. The cruise boards at 9pm and sails from 10pm to 1am.

(Must be 18 years old to board and 21 years old to drink alcohol.) For more information or to purchase tickets, visit circleline42.com.

World Yacht Cruises: World Yacht Cruises will also host a New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise, which boasts eye-catching views of the fireworks and sweeping views of the City, all seen from the Statue of Liberty.

The cruise goes around Manhattan and includes a five-course dinner, premium open bar, DJ, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight.

Boarding is at 9pm, and the cruise sails from 10pm to 1am. The fun continues with a dockside party until 1:30am. For tickets or for more information, visit worldyacht.com.

Queens: Resorts World Casino: This year for New Year’s Eve, Resorts World Casino will be hosting the Legends in Concert tribute show, featuring impersonators of Tina Turner, Prince, Lady Gaga, Rod Stewart and many others. Tickets range from general admission to VVIP, and all guests must be 18 and over. The show will begin at 9pm. Following the show, a party will be held at Club360, and all casino games will be available, including over 3,000 slot machines. For more information, visit rwnewyork.com Staten Island: Nicotra’s Ballroom: Beginning at 7:30pm, Nicotra’s Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn New York/ Staten Island will host a New Year’s Eve Gala to ring in 2016. It will be an elegant occasion complete with cocktail reception, gourmet dinner and traditional champagne toast.

A DJ will play music all night for dancing, and guests will enjoy a fantastic light show. There will be a live feed of Times Square playing through the night for viewing the ball drop. For more info, visit nicotrasballroom.com. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

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M Y M O M H A D A S T RO K E Learn the signs of a stroke F.A.S.T.

Face drooping Arm weakness Speech difficulty Time to call 911 12 NewYorkTrendnyc

December 10, 2015 - December 16, 2015

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