New York Trend NYC: April 5 - 11, 2018

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HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

NAACP CONDEMNS JUSTICE SYSTEM FAILURE TO PROTECT BLACK LIVES The Black Stars News 2015 Annual

The National for Mayorare sworn to serve. We will do Awards Association Dinner will honor the Advancement Colored everything we can to make them David Dinkins,ofRep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, People (NAACP), the nation’s the last.”

R. Donahue Barbara premier civil rightsPeebles, organization, Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina “While our nation engages in issuedLamb, the following Dr. Rudystatement Crew, Stephen a critical discussion on gun following the fatal shooting of Central Byrd, Alia Jones, and the violence, we must not ignore Stephon by a Sacramento ParkClark Five survivors of gross injustice December 18 failure from 6:00pm – the continual stream of men, policeon officer and the to 10:00pm at MIST involved Harlem, 46 prosecute the officers in West 116th Street. the shooting of Alton Sterling in honoree chosen for Baton“Each Rouge in 2016. recognition has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in “The NAACP fiercely condemns her or his respective profession or theseendeavor latest examples of our and in some significant justicemeasure system’s to protect hasfailure contributed towards a more just society in this Black creating lives. Stephon Clark’s says Black Star deathcountry,” is the latest chapter of News founder and publisher Milton the ongoing epidemic of police Allimadi. “Obviously much work brutality in our nation needs to be doneand here and Louisiana Attorney General around the world.”

deepest condolences to the Clark family, and we stand in solidarity with the citizens of Sacramento voicing their pain through protest regarding the unnecessary and vicious murder of this young father of two. We

David Dinkins

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

York and a former chancellor of the

better.New TheYork federal government public schools system. has a Pioneering duty to enforce federal civil producers Stephen rightsByrd laws,and a duty ensure that their Aliato Jones, through we livecompany in a nation where Front Row local Production, brought on ausHot Tin Roof” authorities do“Cat not kill with and “A Streetcar Named impunity. We refuse to acceptDesire” with a multi-ethnic cast to the White House’sInabdication of Broadway.

2016 they bring “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway.

“THE DEATHS OFCentral Honorees, the so-called Park 5, are collectively and MR. CLARK AND MR. individually heroes. They are survivors ofARE one ofTRAGIC the ugliest STERLING Charles Rangel miscarriage of justice in New York’s EXAMPLES OF LAW history; having been railroaded majority. She now leads The and unjustly convicted for a crime Transformative Justice Coalition.

ENFORCEMENT’S they did not commit and for which Arnwine was for 26 years executive FAILURE TO they served long prison sentences director of the Lawyers’ Committee ranging from seven years to 13 years for Civil Rights Under the Law. ADEQUATELY PROTECT before being exonerated when the Inez Barron, honoree, formerly a actual rapist confessed.

They THOSE THEY ARE are: State Assembly member, is now Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond a New York City council member SWORN TO SERVE. WE Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin and a champion of education for Richardson, and Kharey Wise. our youth.

WILL DO EVERYTHING The Black Star News, which focuses Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is WE CAN TO journalism, MAKE has on investigative a legendary radio talk show host been featured a result of some if THEM THE asLAST.” and executive producer, radio DJ, its news scoops, on CNN, The New

Jeff Landry’s The gala announcement starts at 6:00pm with a that no charges filed by the cocktail hourwould to be be followed dinner and awards ceremonies. There against the officers involved will be musical in Sterling’s death entertainment represents by opera singer Cassandra Douglas an all too familiar epilogue to and from harmonica phenomenon R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is that narrative.

The CityDavid of Baton poet, songwriter, music recording William Galison.

Dinkins is York Daily News, The New York a leading developer and founder of Rouge’s decision to fire one of artist and producer, rapper, writer honored for Lifetime Achievement Post, TheAs Village Voice,on and Brill’s women, children lives largest call onand local officials to keep responsibility. we embark Theand Peebles Co.,who the nation’s community activist. He began — he was New York City’sinfirst the officers involved is a step Content magazine.

African American-owned real protestors are lost to police firearms. safe as they exercise our remembrance of the 50th his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo African American and also the right direction, but itmayor cannot estate firm with $3.5 billion worth their First Past Black StarKing’s News honorees Amendment of Dr. murder, at age 15. For overrights.

30 years, he’s anniversary welcomed Nelson Mandela to theAfrican-Americans are less than replace a criminal prosecution of properties under development have included: Gil Noble (Like It beenwith a talk show host at WBLS and city after his release in 1990.

13 percent of the total U.S. We stand our Sacramento we challenge this administration or management — he was one for Mr. Sterling’s killing. Each Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad WLIB in New York City. Heto commit population account for 23% Branch andradio our California/Hawaii to vigorously enforcing Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored of thebut pioneering developerswho O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, new detail that emerges about also has a Friday night radio talk for Lifetime Achievement, has of those shotturn by police 2017, Conference President Alice the civil rights laws that form aTheatre), helped aroundin and revitalize State show Voza Rivers (New Heritage on WBAI. the deaths Clarksince and1971. He is servedof in Mr. Congress the once-blighted Anacostia according to the Washington Huffman in calling for a thorough central part of his legacy.

Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Mr. Sterling strengthens our medal for Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder a recipient of The Bronze Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William Post. neighborhood in Washington, D.C. investigation and the vigorous of World of Money, is a champion helping save soldiers enemy conviction that the policebehind officers A champion of African-American “The deaths of Mr. Clark Pollard (Medgar Eversand College), pursuit of justice for the Clark of financial literacy for youth-- she linemust duringbe the Korean War. economic empowerment Peebles’ is involved held legally Herm Edwards (NYexamples Jets), Nayaba “We are tired of the apologies, Mr. Sterling are tragic family.teaches knowledge about handling contemplating a possible run for NYC Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna responsible for their actions. tired of murder being justified money, budgeting and planning. of law enforcement’s failure to mayor in 2017. member of the US House of Fountain (Columbia University), “Although the White House would adequately on the sole basis that an armed protect those they Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of Representatives from New Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy “The deaths of Mr. Clark and Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil have us believe that the killings officerrights feared harm. This is not serve.

WeGreg will do the nation’s leading educators. He’sare sworn York whose 9th district covers (Newto York Times), Floyd (Local lawyer, is a champion of Mr. Sterling are tragic examples of Mr. Sterling and Mr. Clark are right and the NAACP refuses everything we can to make them much of central Brooklyn. Before 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic of law enforcement’s failure to matter[s]’, we know entering Congress in 2007, she to accept Action Network), and many others. this.groups We extend The City University of New the last.” minority — theour emerging simplyof‘local adequately protect those they

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

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CULTURE

GE TA

The 100 students were selected from thousands of applicants nationwide for this once-in-alifetime mentoring program that is designed to assist them in identifying and pursuing their dreams. The students, along with

a parent or guardian, received an all-expense-paid trip to Disney to participate in the program, which features a series of career-oriented workshops and leadership seminars. Celebrity participants include Sunny Hostin from ABC’s “The View,” television personality Steve Harvey, national recording artist Ne-Yo, former NFL great and “Dancing with the Stars’’ winner Emmitt Smith and actors Jussie Smollett (Fox’s “Empire’’), Miles Brown (ABC’s “Black-ish’’) and Marsai Martin (ABC’s “Blackish’’).

Co Op 3 mp en su le m to te m de up er gr se to e ss e on & io e ns no ye ar nav de of ai g la stu re bl dy e e st in u de th re nt e s mo Ca M nt lc ic hs ul ro us b An Ch at em iolo om gy is try y Ph & ys Ph ic ys s io & lo M gy or e

One hundred teens from across the nation participated in Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence magazine -- a four-day, immersive and transformational mentoring program at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida which concluded this weekend.

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Students Participated in Prestigious DISNEY DREAMERS ACADEMY

718.260.5500 • WWW.CITYTECH.CUNY.EDU/SUMMER NEW YORK CITY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

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NE WS

HYAMS FOUNDATION Releases Report on Racial Equity The Hyams Foundation has released Racial Inequities, Policy Solutions: Perceptions of Boston’s Communities of Color on Racism and Race Relations, a comprehensive, first-of-its kind report on policy priorities for people of color in Boston.

Commissioned by Hyams and conducted by The MassINC Polling Group, the study polled Asian, Black, Latino and white voters in Boston on a range of issues including education, criminal justice, race relations, and economic opportunity.

The poll, which took place in November 2017, was conducted online and via live telephone.

The results of this study not only found significant variances in opinion between Black, Asian, Latino and white voters in Boston, it also exposed differences related to age and gender that call for much deeper exploration. While the report is highly nuanced and signals the need for additional research, it did point to several high-level conclusions:  The majority of Boston voters believe racism is at least a somewhat serious problem in the city (74 percent); voters also agree that dialogues on race are needed to improve race relations with 63 percent of respondents saying that these dialogues will

help either a fair amount or a great deal;  Four out of five voters believe it is difficult to afford living in the city. Overall, 66 percent of respondents believe improvements to public transportation are key to helping improve economic mobility for Boston’s residents;  Sixty-two percent of Boston

“This report is an important first step in beginning to explore lasting solutions to the problem of racial inequality in Boston,” said Jocelyn Sargent, executive director of the Hyams Foundation. “As the city continues to engage in conversations around racial justice and build a more sustainable and just city for all, a deep understanding of the

opportunity, we have to break down the racial inequity that has built up over many generations in our country," said Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. "This survey shows that Bostonians are both passionate about achieving equal opportunity and optimistic about our progress. The Hyams Foundation has played a key role in getting us to this point, and I'm proud to partner with them to

voters strongly agree that our children need access to quality education at an early age; and  Respondents felt that our criminal justice system should provide more opportunities for the formerly incarcerated (64 percent) and explore options for restorative justice for youth (72 percent).

challenges faced by people of color in Boston—and the policy changes these communities would like to see—is vital to ending racism. We look forward to building off these important first findings to create a just, equitable, and prosperous Boston for all.”

move this city, this state, and this country forward."

Later on this year, the Foundation and The MassINC Polling Group will conduct a more in-depth poll of Boston’s residents to further delve into key findings of concern in the Racial Inequities, Policy Solutions report.

"If we're serious about expanding

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BUSINE S S

Minority Supplier Development Council to Host ANNUAL EXPO The Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC) will host the 33rd Annual Business Expo, its premier event, April 5-6 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale. Under the theme Race to Success, the conference will focus on Revenue, Accountability, Customer Service and Excellence.

The Expo attracts business leaders and corporations from across the state and around the country.

The event consists of a trade fair, workshops and a luncheon that provides a forum to network

and showcase your company’s products and services.

“The Business Expo is designed to ensure minority businesses at all stages of development are positioned for greater success, and to provide corporations and government agencies with information about supplier diversity,” said Beatrice Louissaint, President and CEO of the FSMSDC. Keynote speaker David Segura, Chairman, Founder and CEO of VisionIT, will highlight the

Business Expo Luncheon. Founded more than 20 years ago, VisionIT now works with some of the largest corporations in the U.S. and globally, providing IT services and solutions across specific IT practices and software.

The 33rd Annual Business Expo is an ideal opportunity for minority entrepreneurs to present their products and services to purchasing agents from government agencies and Fortune 500 companies. Exhibitors and sponsors include: The Walt Disney Company, Florida Blue, Duke Energy, Jackson Health System, Florida Power & Light Company, JM Family Enterprises, FDOT, Office Depot, NBCUniversal, Orlando Health, Comcast, MasTec, Pure Air Control Services, SDI International Corp., Paramount Solutions, AT&T, American Airlines and Solo Printing.

This year, the workshops will include: Construction Opportunities in the Public Sector; How to Increase Your Business in Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Industries; Government: How to Do Business with the Biggest Buyer in the World; Meet the Developers Changing Florida’s

Landscape; How Rapidly Changing Technology Influences the Way we do Business; The Business of Travel and Hospitality; and Captivating Extraordinary Talent: How to Attract and Retain the Best Employees. The Annual Business Expo includes a Youth Entrepreneurs workshop.

More than 100 students from local schools are expected to participate.

The Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing access and growth for minority businesses in Florida.

The organization’s goal is to increase purchasing from minority businesses by government entities and corporations, while increasing the operating capacity of minority businesses through hands-on business assistance, training and access to technology and capital resources. Founded in 1975, the FSMSDC is one of 23 regional councils affiliated with the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC). The FSMSDC acts as a liaison between corporate America and certified Minority Business Enterprises in the state of Florida.

WALMART F o cuse s o n

Afr i c a n -A merican Wo men’s Bu si n e sse s The second Quick Chat video in the three-part series Hidden Talent, sponsored by Walmart, highlights Restaurant Owner Leah Abraham as she shares how hiring locally in Harlem has helped her business grow from humble roots to an in-demand hotspot.

Through her dedication to her community and the desire to contribute to Harlem’s transformation into the bustling city it is today, Leah shares the methodology behind operating a successful restaurant, bakery and catering business, Settepani; which she regards as a true extension of her family.

4 | NewYorkTrendnyc

By hiring locally and empowering her staff to be leaders, Leah has raised the bar on how AfricanAmerican women are shaping the future in business while giving back to their communities.

Join us in our Business Sanctuary as Leah takes us through the journey of building a successful brand in the heart of Harlem, what that means to the community and how it’s helped her bottom line.

Register & Watch  https:// odysseymedia.com/programs/ business-sanctuary/?utm_ source=email&utm_ content=2018-walmart-2-leahabraham-business-sanctuary April 5, 2018 - April 11, 2018

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ENTER TAINMENT

BLACK PANTHER Makes Big Statements Across the Board Your new favorite superhero movie just got bigger! Black Panther was recently titled No. 1 highest-grossing superhero film ever, in the U.S. This weekend, sales bumped the total domestic box-office ticket sales to $630.9 million, surpassing The Avengers with $623.4 million back in

2012. Black Panther is also currently the No. 5 highest grossing movie of all time in the U.S. and No. 12 world-wide.

And the fun isn’t over yet! Black Panther is trending to surpass sales of Star Wars and Titanic.

Many are referring to Black Panther as a “movement”, it’s

far from your average super hero movie. In times like today, where race, gender, and beliefs are so heavily judged and talked about, an uplifting movie celebrating black culture and black people, is sure to make a statement. This message brought forth positivity and empowerment by showcasing smart, innovative, strong, loving black people in the nation of “Wakanda”. Their futuristic technology was the cure to many illnesses, their sense of family and loyalty made them warriors for their nation, and they stuck to their values that promoted peace to the world. “Wakanda Forever” is still being chanted, even in every day conversation!

Black Panther also made a monumental fashion statement.

African clothing has not only been

a trend to wear to the movies, but people are embracing this fashion and bringing it to their lifestyle. Many are also doing “Coming to America”-themed events like baby showers and birthdays.

The movie’s costume designers styled the cast in modern African patterns and a futuristic twist on the ankuras, pan-style blankets, and the accessories such as neck rings, face paint, and headgear.

Local African designers have seen exponential sales growth, some even doubled, since the opening night of Black Panther.

As fanfare over the film continues to grow, there is more potential for African-Americans to not only embrace and explore their history through fashion, but support these black-owned businesses.

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ENTER TAINMENT “My goal was to not only to pay tribute to Luther but to add my own passion on top of Luther’s brilliant songs. It all started with my mom who has always loved Luther and played his music in our home continuously – especially during Christmas. You can say I grew up with the world’s biggest Luther fan. In my young teens, I would perform a Luther song or two at weddings and people would keep requesting more of his hits. I recorded ‘Superstar’ awhile back which was Grammy nominated and sang different Luther songs during my live shows. But people always asked when I was going to do an album of Luther’s songs.

Happily the day has arrived. It was a thrilling experience selecting the songs from his different albums and putting my own interpretation on them. I am so proud of this record”, commented Ruben.

Ruben Studdard, America’s Idol, officially confirmed that he will be releasing “RUBEN SINGS LUTHER” to his hero Luther Vandross on March 16th and will be launching a 22 city ‘ALWAYS AND FOREVER TOUR’ starting in Sacramento, California on April 8th. A full schedule of tour dates follows this release.

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“As for the tour, we are not only recreating some of the production elements, musicians, background singers, wardrobe and lighting that were ever present when Luther took the stage, but my heart and soul will be in every note I sing as I

April 5, 2018 - April 11, 2018

honor one of the greatest vocalists we’ve ever had.”

Ruben Studdard, the Grammy nominated R&B, gospel and pop singer was the winner of American Idol’s second season. He has recorded six studio albums, appears frequently on TV, toured extensively and has sold over two million albums worldwide.

 “RUBEN SINGS LUTHER” Track Listing: 1. Always and Forever 2. Never Too Much 3. So Amazing 4. Don’t You Know That?

5. Bad Boy / Having a Party 6. Love Won’t Let Me Wait 7. Here and Now 8. Till My Baby Comes Home 9. A House Is Not A Home 10. Power of Love  TOUR DATES listed on next page

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ENTER TAINMENT

DESSOFF CHOIRS Presents “FREEDOM CONCERT” Inspired by Coretta Scott King

Hailed as “one of the great amateur choruses of our time (New York Today) for its “full-bodied sound and suppleness (The New York Times),” The Dessoff Choirs culminates its 93rd season with a “Freedom Concert” inspired by the late Coretta Scott King (b. April 27, 1927), wife of Martin Luther King Jr., and advocate for African-American equality. In this dynamic program, Dessoff offers a choral tapestry reflecting on the Civil Rights movement of the past while promoting hope for the future.

The program’s centerpiece is Ralph Vaughan William’s plea for peace, Dona nobis pacem. Robert Sirota’s homage to the nine victims of the Mother Emanuel AME massacre, Prelude and Spiritual for Mother Emanuel, works by African-American composers, the well-known civil rights freedom song, “Oh Freedom,” and Bach’s Dona nobis pacem from Mass in B minor round out the program.

salvation, the songs we chose were part of the movement, while others were inspired by the events of the era, and/or more recent injustices.”

The concert presents works by three female composers: Nancy Wertsch, Undine Smith Moore, and Libby Larsen. The rousing Black Gospel arrangement by Wertsch of the great American hymn Blessed Assurance, commissioned and premiered by the Riverside Church in

for a Pulitzer Prize in 1981 for her Scenes from the Life of a Martyr, a 16-part oratorio on the life of Dr. King. Larsen’s moving Cry Peace complements the program, comprised of the word “peace” in many languages. Larsen is one of America’s most prolific and most performed living composers known for capturing the contemporary American spirit.

Embodying the power of forgiveness

act of racist terrorism on 17 June 2015 at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, and is dedicated to their families who revealed a deep faith in a loving God when they were able to express forgiveness to the killer two days later,” says Victoria Sirota. Ralph Vaughan Williams’s cantata Dona nobis pacem is another urging from the composer for communal action for

1985, was broadcast nationally the following year during the inaugural celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at Dr. King’s own Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. The piece has since become standard repertoire for that holiday. Influenced

by Bach and black folk music, Moore was a visionary composer hailed as the Dean of Black Women Composers. She was nominated

is Prelude and Spiritual for Mother Emanuel by husband and wife team, Robert and Victoria Sirota.

The work was written in memory of the victims of the June 17, 2015, shootings at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina.

"Prelude and Spiritual for Mother Emanuel is written in memory of the nine faithful souls who were murdered during a Bible Class in an

peace. It is paired with Bach’s Dona nobis pacem from the Mass in B minor. As part of its season-long celebration of Leonard Bernstein’s (1918-1990) centenary, the choir honors Bernstein’s rich legacy by performing the third movement, “Adonai, Adonai Lo gavah libi” from Chichester Psalms, considered a plea for peace as well.

Known for singing with conviction, expressivity, and passion, the 60+ members of The Dessoff Choirs will call up the universality of hope for salvation and pleadings for peace.

“Through this remarkable concert, The Dessoff Choirs is affirming its values and the contribution of cultural diversity to our civil society,” says Malcolm J. Merriweather, ninth Music Director and conductor of The Dessoff Choirs. “The ‘Freedom Concert’ is a shining example of this mission.”

The Civil Rights movement captured the nation’s attention in 1963, and musicians/composers proved no exception. The marches, protests, and tragedies of 55 years ago influenced some of the greatest artists of the 20th and 21st Centuries. “We’ve appropriately joined choral pieces that commemorate this important moment in our nation’s history.

According to ideas of humanity and

ruben studdard “ALWAYS AND FOREVER TOUR 2018”

 SUN, APRIL 8  CREST THEATRE, SACRAMENTO, CA  WED, APRIL 11  THE ROSE, PASADENA, CA  THU, APRIL 12  FOX PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, RIVERSIDE, CA  FRI, APRIL 13  TEXAS STATION CASINO, LAS VEGAS, NV  SAT, APRIL 14  CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS, CHANDLER, AZ (continued)  SUN, APRIL 15  SYCUAN CASINO, EL CAJON, CA 8 | NewYorkTrendnyc

sings

luther vandross

 TUE, APRIL 17  SOILED DOVE UNDERGROUND, DENVER, CO  THU, APRIL 19  THE KENT STAGE, KENT, OH  FRI, APRIL 20  ARCADA THEATRE, ST. CHARLES, IL  SAT, APRIL 21  POTTER CENTER / COMMUNITY COLLEGE, JACKSON, MI  SUN, APRIL 22  SCHROTT CENTER FOR THE ARTS, INDIANAPOLIS, IN  TUE, APRIL 24  BERGEN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, ENGLEWOOD, NJ

 THU, APRIL 26  STATE THEATRE, NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ  FRI, APRIL 27  THE ZEITERION PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, BOSTON, MA  SAT, APRIL 28  KESWICK THEATRE, GLENSIDE, PA  SUN, APRIL 29  THE CABOT THEATER, BEVERLY, MA  Wed, May 2  Nycb Theatre, Westbury, Ny  Fri, May 4  Mohegan Sun Hotel & Casino, Uncasville, Ct

April 5, 2018 - April 11, 2018

(cont'd from page 7)

 Sat, May 5  Robert Parilla Pac At Montgomery College, Rockville, Md  Wed, May 9  Florida Theatre, Jacksonville, Fl  Thu, May 10  Hard Rock Hotel, Orlando, Fl  Sat, May 12  Straz Center For The Arts /Ferguson Hall, Tampa, Fl  Sun, May 13  Kravis Center / Dreyfoos Hall, West Palm Beach, Fl

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HE ALTH

RE P O RT ON DEPR E SSION A M ON G A DU LT S I N N YC R E L E AS ED NYC Health Department has released its first comprehensive data brief on depression among New York City adults. Approximately 548,000 adults (9 percent) in New York City experienced depression in 2016, according to a survey started shortly after ThriveNYC was launched in late 2015. The report examines disparities in depression rates among race/ethnic groups; significant risk factors associated with depression; and the groups most likely to receive treatment for depression. Among the data brief’s findings: Latino adults (13 percent) experienced depression at nearly twice the rate of White (7 percent), Black (8 percent) and Asian and Pacific Islander (5 percent) adults. In addition, adults with chronic diseases – specifically

hypertension, diabetes or asthma – were at least twice as likely to report being depressed. New Yorkers with depression were also more likely to be current smokers, drink sugary beverages, and not get enough exercise. These data will be used by the Health Department to inform its mental health initiatives and will be distributed to community partners.

The report also underscored the need for accessible mental health treatment in New York City, a priority under the de Blasio Administration. More than half of adults with depression (62 percent) had not received any mental health treatment in the past 12 months. In November 2015, the City launched ThriveNYC, a set of 54 initiatives to change the conversation and stigma surrounding mental illness and provide greater access to mental health care. New Yorkers can contact NYC Well for free and confidential support at any hour of the day in over 200 languages by calling 1-888-NYC-WELL, texting “WELL” to 65173 or going to nyc. gov/nycwell. NYC Well will make connections to effective treatment

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options. In addition, anyone can take a free Mental Health First Aid course to learn how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health challenges, including depression. The full report on depression among adults is available online.

“This new data underscores what we have known to be true,” said First Lady Chirlane McCray, who spearheads ThriveNYC. “Depression is a common disease experienced by New Yorkers, but most New Yorkers who are suffering are not seeking treatment. Mental illness touches every single one of us directly or indirectly through family and friends.

And it’s treatable. Our job is to make sure every New Yorker knows that there’s always hope, and there is always help that is confidential and

completely free, by calling 1-888NYC WELL. No one has to suffer alone.”

“Behind these data are the life stories of more than half a million New Yorkers living with depression which underscores the importance of addressing barriers to care,” said Dr. Herminia Palacio, Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services.

“This administration has been committed to improving mental health care in New York City with initiatives such as ThriveNYC that support New Yorkers to reverse the impact of depression, and other mental health conditions, on their daily lives.”

“Depression is incredibly common – 1 in 11 adults – and can affect anyone. But it is even more common among Latino New Yorkers, older people and people with less education and lower income,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “We hope these data encourage primary care doctors to regularly screen their patients for depression. Depression is treatable, and we encourage all New Yorkers to

seek help if they need it.”

“This report underscores what we already know to be true – no community is immune to depression,” said Public Advocate Letitia James. “With a significant population of New Yorkers suffering from mental illness, it is more critical than ever to provide treatment and fight the stigmas associated with mental health. I am proud to have an agencies and initiatives like the Health Department, and ThriveNYC that are able identify mental health concerns among New Yorkers, and are equipped to tackle them head on.”

“Depression can affect anyone, but these new findings suggest that low-income people of color are more likely to experience the disorder.

Initiatives such as ThriveNYC are crucial to help combat stigma and expand access to mental health care in communities that need it most. As Chair of the Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addiction, I am looking forward to partnering with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to ensure that New Yorkers are accessing the mental health treatment they deserve,” said Council Member Diana Ayala.

To gather data for the report, Health Department researchers spoke to approximately 10,000 New Yorkers as part of its annual NYC Community Health Survey. Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders. Estimates of current depression were determined using eight questions to assess the frequency of depression symptoms over the past two weeks. The questions assessed symptoms including the level of interest in doing things, feeling down or depressed, difficulty with sleeping, energy levels, eating habits, feeling bad about oneself, and ability to concentrate.

Depression Among New York City Adults Data Highlights  Overall prevalence:  Adults ages 45 to 64 (11 percent) were more likely to be depressed than 25 to 44 year olds (8 percent).  The prevalence of depression was higher in the Bronx (12 percent) compared with Manhattan (7 percent) and Brooklyn (8 percent).

Socioeconomic status:  Adults who had less than a high school education (17 percent), were high school graduates (11 percent) or completed some college (8 percent) had a higher prevalence of depression compared with college

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graduates (4 percent).  Adults with the lowest household income had the highest prevalence of depression (13 percent) compared with those with the highest household income (4 percent).  Adults insured through Medicare (17 percent), Medicaid (15 percent) or uninsured individuals (9 percent) had a higher prevalence of depression compared with privately insured adults (5 percent).  People who were unemployed (18 percent) or not in the labor force (14 percent) were about three times more likely to have depression than people who were employed (5 percent).

Personal safety:  Adults who reported that their neighborhood was unsafe (17 percent) were more than twice as likely to be depressed as those who reported that their neighborhood was very safe or somewhat safe (8 percent).  Adults who had ever been physically hurt by an intimate partner (24 percent) were three times more likely to have depression than those who had not (8 percent).

Chronic disease:  Adults who had ever been told that they had hypertension were three times more likely to have depression than those who had not (18 percent versus 6 percent). Similarly, adults who had been told they had diabetes (17 percent versus 8 percent) or asthma (17 percent versus 7 percent) were more than twice as likely to have depression compared with those had not.  Adults with depression were more likely than those without to be current smokers (23 percent versus 12 percent) and to consume one or more sugary drinks per day (31 percent versus 22 percent).  Compared with adults without depression, New Yorkers with depression were more likely to not have eaten any fruits or vegetables on the previous day (25 percent versus 11 percent) and to report not having exercised in the past 30 days (44 percent versus 26 percent) Treatment:  Adults born in the U.S. (49 percent) were more likely to receive treatment compared with New Yorkers born outside of the U.S. (24 percent).  Adults with depression were more likely to receive mental health treatment (medication and/or counseling) if they were 45 to 64 years old (51 percent) compared with those ages 25 to 44 (36 percent) or 65 years or older (33 percent).

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Warning issued About SKIN-LIGHTENING CREAMS

The NYC Health Department has warned New York City residents about 10 skin-lightening creams from Pakistan and two medicated soaps from Spain with elevated levels of mercury. These products can contain up to 14,000 times the allowable limit for mercury in cosmetics. Exposure to mercury can cause serious and lifethreatening health problems, including damage to the nervous system and kidneys. In pregnant women, mercury poisoning can also affect the fetus and increase the risk of miscarriage.

The Health Department sent an alert to health care providers in New York City to advise patients against using such products.

The Health Department recommends that New Yorkers immediately stop using all skinlightening creams and medicated soaps that list mercury as an ingredient. However, mercury may not always be listed as an ingredient on the label, so New Yorkers should speak with their doctor if they are using nonprescription products to lighten their skin or for skin disorders.

The New York City Health

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Code prohibits the sale of toxic personal products. The Health Department is working with New York City businesses to remove the following products from their shelves:  Due Beauty Cream made by Kreative Cosmetics (Pvt) Ltd.  Sandal Whitening Beauty Cream made by MMC Cosmetics, Pakistan

 Chandni Whitening Cream made by SJ Enterprises, Pakistan  Golden Pearl Beauty Cream made by Golden Pearl Cosmetics  Face Fresh Beauty Cream made by Shaheen Cosmetics, Pakistan  Faiza No. 1 Beauty Cream made by A.M. Cosmetics (Pak), Pakistan  Faiza Beauty Cream made by Poonia Brothers (Pak), Pakistan  Seven Herbal Ubtan Cream made by C.P.H.L.  Stillman’s Freckle Cream and Stillman’s Skin Bleach Cream made in Pakistan under license

from the Stillman Company, Inc., USA

soaps that list mercury as an ingredient.

 Niuma Medicated Antiseptic Soap made by Niuma Belleza, Spain

• Tell your health care provider if you are using non-prescription products to lighten skin or for skin disorders.

 Niuma Lemon Medicated Germicidal Soap made by Niuma Belleza, Spain The Health Department advises New Yorkers to: • Immediately stop using all skinlightening creams and medicated

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• Call 311 to report locations where these products are sold.

• Call 212-POISONS (212-7647667) or visit http://www1. nyc.gov/site/doh/health/ health-topics/mercury.page for additional information.

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END NO TE S A l l-Sta r C ast P e r f o r m ’THE RADICAL KING’ for Audible Audible, Inc., the world’s largest seller and producer of downloadable audiobooks and other spoken-word entertainment, today announced the release of The Radical King. This collection of twenty-three of Martin Luther King Jr.’s essays and speeches, curated by Cornel West, is performed by LeVar Burton, Mike Colter, Leslie Odom, Jr., Colman Domingo, Danny Glover, Gabourey Sidibe, Wanda Sykes,

Michael Kenneth Williams, and more. The Radical King is now available for download at www. audible.com/theradicalking.

In The Radical King, which marks the first time the Martin Luther King Estate has allowed professional actors to perform King’s seminal words, Audible has assembled a remarkable cast of charismatic performers who bring their own passion, enthusiasm, and activism to

their readings of the essays and speeches. Compiled and edited

by Cornel West, the anthology of essays and speeches highlights King as a revolutionary and a democratic socialist who sided with poor and working people.

The recording’s gifted cast showcases King’s compassion, outrage, insight and vulnerability.

“Reading Dr. King’s words was extremely daunting, but if this would introduce his lesser-known

Recording introduces first-ever dramatic interpretations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s essays and speeches.

works to more people, then I needed to do it. I tried to channel what the words meant to me, and what he meant to me,” said Emmy Award-winning actress and comedian Wanda Sykes, who recites two speeches in the collection.

“I am humbled and honored that my voice and my performance of Dr. King’s essays and speeches will be the first way that a new generation of people hear them aloud,” said Mike Colter. “Dr. King’s words, still so timely and important, are meant to be heard. Listening to these key pieces is sure to be a powerful experience for the listener, and a meaningful way to preserve Dr. King’s legacy.”

“Dr. King is celebrated as one of the greatest orators in American history, and the performances of these incredible actors remind us why,” said Audible EVP and Publisher Beth Anderson.

“This captivating recording is a testament to Dr. King’s enduring vision.”

With a 30-day membership trial at Audible, new listeners can enjoy any one audiobook, including this performance of The Radical King, free.

Among the acclaimed performers who have narrated works of literature for Audible are Zachary Quinto, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Lily Collins, Emma Thompson, and Jesse Eisenberg. Audible Studios has won a Grammy Award, for its production of Janis Ian’s memoir Society’s Child, and has also been recognized with the Audie Award for Audiobook of the Year, for Colin Firth’s performance of Graham Greene’s The End of the Affair. Audible invented and commercialized the first digital audio player in 1997, and has since been at the forefront of the explosively growing audiobook download segment. In 2017, listeners around the world downloaded over two billion hours of Audible content.

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NO ONE GETS A DIPLOMA ALONE. If you’re thinking of finishing your high school diploma, you have more support than you realize. Find teachers and free adult education classes near you at FinishYourDiploma.org.

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