New York Trend NYC: April 23-29, 2020

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C E L E B R AT I N G HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS keep IN-PERSON VOTING OPTIONS 30

NAACP argues

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YEARS!

York and a former chancellor of the Themove Black News As states to Stars expand voting2015

by Annual disproportionately disadvantaged work for everyone,” said Danielle Root, will honor Mayorby vote by mail, given that they have New York public schools system. mail, aAwards new jointDinner publication from associate director of voting rights and David Charles the Center forDinkins, AmericanRep. Progress higher move and homeless rates and access to justice at CAP and co-author Pioneering producers Stephen Clarke, and theRangel, NAACP Rep. showsYvette that in-person are some of the least likely Americans of the report. “This is why in-person Byrd and Alia Jones, through their multiple measures to ensure that all R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara to use vote-by-mail options. voting options must be preserved voting options, including early voting, company Front Row Production, communities have unfettered access as wellArnwine, in order to Inez prevent the Sabrina  Voters with disabilities require inmust be preserved in any vote-by-mail Barron, brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” to the ballot box amid COVID-19,” disenfranchisement of millions system. Other policies also must be Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew,ofStephen person accommodations. and “ARushing, Streetcarchief Named Desire” said Yumeka strategy Americans.

Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central with a multi-ethnic cast to officer at the NAACP. “Vote by mail is Parkopportunities Five survivors of gross injustice Expanding to vote by mail Broadway.

In 2016 they bring one option, but it cannot be the only on December 18 from – is a critical, commonsense step 6:00pm that “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner option. States and municipalities must at MIST Harlem, 46 West states 10:00pm should prioritize in order to help Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. think expansively and critically about Street. protect116th the health and safety of voters how they can engage citizens, increase Honorees, the so-called Central and poll workers alike. Unfortunately, “Each honoree chosen for participation, their safety Park 5,and areensure collectively and some officials have coupled this in these unprecedented times. If we recognition has demonstrated individually heroes. They are call with efforts to reduce or even start now, we can protect our people exceptional and vision in eliminate in-person leadership polling places. survivors of one of the ugliest David Dinkins Charles Rangel and protect our democracy.” her or his respective profession or The CAP-NAACP analysis documents miscarriage of justice in New York’s endeavororand in some The analysis recommends that how eliminating reducing in- significant history; having been railroaded majority.

She now leads The was a member of the New York has contributed towards expanded vote by mail must be paired personmeasure options would inadvertently and unjustly convicted for a crime Transformative Justice Coalition.

City Council, representing the creating many a more just society in this with other policies to encourage voting, disenfranchise African American th they did not commit and for which Arnwine was for 26 years executive 40 council district in Brooklyn, says Black Star News including: voters,country,” voters with disabilities, they served long prison sentences director of the Lawyers’ Committee succeeding her mother, Una S.  Online voter registration founder publisher Milton American Indian and and Alaska Native ranging from seven years to 13 years for Civil Rights Under the Law.  Same-day T. Clarke. In the current 114th voter registration voters,Allimadi. and those “Obviously who rely on same-day much work before being exonerated when the Congress Clarke serves on voter registration.

Inez Barron, honoree, formerly a Ballot-tracking programs needs to be done here and actual rapist confessed. They are: the Energy and Commerce State Assembly member, is now Nondiscriminatory signature around world.”

“Our vote is our the voice, so it is essential Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Committee, responsible for a New York City council memberverification requirements that states take starts commonsense steps The gala at 6:00pm with a Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin consumer protection, food and a champion of education for  No onerous requirements for to protect Americans’ to vote by the cocktail hour toright be followed Richardson, and Kharey Wise. safety, energy development, public absentee ballots our youth. and protect dinnertheir andhealth,” awardssaid Rep. ceremonies. There  Robust voter education health, communications, the The Black Star News, which focuses Terri Sewell (D-AL) andentertainment co-chair of Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is will be musical by environment, and interstate and on investigative journalism, has the Congressional Black Caucus a legendary radio talk show host Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the opera singer Cassandra Douglas international commerce. been featured as a nonpartisan result of some if nation’s oldest and largest Voting Rights Task Force. “States and executive producer, radio DJ, and from harmonica phenomenon civil rights organization.

Its members that do not have vote by mail and noits news scoops, on CNN, The New R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is poet, songwriter, music recordingthroughout the United States and the Davidbegin Dinkins is excuseWilliam absenteeGalison. voting should York Daily News, The New York a leading developer and founder of artist and producer, rapper, writerworld are the premier advocates for honoredthose for Lifetime implementing programsAchievement now.

Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest and community activist. He began he is was New York City’s first civil rights in their communities.

Vote by— mail especially important Content magazine.

African American-owned real his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo American mayor and also during African times when Americans could estate firm with $3.5 billion worth for American Progress is a Past Black Star News honorees at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s The Center welcomed Nelson be deterred from the polls Mandela for health to the nonpartisan research and educational of properties under development have included: Gil Noble (Like It been a talk show host at WBLS and citybut after release in 1990. reasons; it ishis a good practice and institute dedicated to promoting aSoledad or management — he was one Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, WLIB radio in New York City. He one that will Charles serve us Rangel, well, evenalso after Rep. honored strong, just and free America that of the pioneering developerswho O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, also has a Friday night radio talk ensures this crisis has passed. At the same opportunity for all. We believe for Lifetime Achievement, has helped turn around and revitalize Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), time, states must take steps to ensure show on WBAI. that Americans are bound together served in Congress since 1971.

He is the once-blighted Anacostia that our polling locations remain Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel by a common commitment to these Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder a recipient of The Bronze medal for neighborhood in Washington, D.C. open and safe for voters, including Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William values and we aspire to ensure that of World of Money, is a champion helpingin-person save soldiers A champion of African-American by instituting early behind voting enemy Pollard (Medgar Evers College), of financial literacy for youth-- sheour national policies reflect these line during Korean economic empowerment Peebles’ adopted is and recruiting poll the workers whoWar. are Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba in order for this system to be  People living on tribal lands may not teaches knowledge about handlingvalues. We work to find progressive contemplating a possible run for NYC the least susceptible to the virus.

Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic effective, including those that expand Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna and pragmatic solutions to significant have access to reliable postal service. money, budgeting andthat planning.

Thank member you to theof Center forHouse American mayor in 2017. voter registration and ensure all the US of Fountain (Columbia University), domestic and international problems  In-person voting options are Progress and the NAACP for shining voters have equal access to casting Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of Representatives from New a and develop policy proposals that Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy necessary for voters using same-day Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil light onYork this whose critically9th important issue.” ballots that count.” the nation’s leading educators.

He’s foster a government that is “of the district covers voter registration.

(New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local rights lawyer, is a champion of people, by the people, and for the The analysis shows: much of central Brooklyn. Before “While protecting 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College rights of ethnic “If we are to have safe and inclusive vote by mailvoting is a convenient  Blackentering Americans are Congress in 2007, she option minority Action Network), and many others. elections, we must of The Cityimplement University of New people.”

— the emerging for many groups Americans, it does not

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

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H B C U ’s A m o n g s t R e c i p i e n t s After quickly making available more than $6 billion for colleges and universities to provide direct emergency cash grants to students, U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos announced today an additional $6.2 billion is now available to higher education institutions to ensure learning continues. The funding is available through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, signed into law by President Donald J. Trump less than one month ago.

“This pandemic has made clear every single education institution should make important investments to ensure learning continues when unexpected circumstances arise,” said Secretary DeVos. “Accordingly, the additional funds made available today can be used to expand remote learning programs, build IT capacity, and train faculty and staff to operate in a remote learning environment so that at any moment institutions can pivot quickly. I hope that institutions that already have robust remote learning capacity will consider using this funding to support additional emergency cash grants for students.”

to the delivery of instruction due to the coronavirus. The funding for these “Recipient Institutional Costs” is separate from the funding previously made available for “Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.” In order to access the funds, higher education institutions must submit a Certification and Agreement for Recipient Institutional Costs. Institutions must also have executed the Certification and Agreement for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students before submitting the second certification and agreement.

So far, about 50% of eligible postsecondary institutions have applied to receive the Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

School allocations are set by a formula prescribed in the CARES Act, which is weighted significantly by the number of full-time students who are Pell-eligible but also takes into consideration the total population of the school and the number of students who were not enrolled full-time online before the coronavirus outbreak.

The Department is utilizing the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and Federal Student Aid (FSA) for this calculation.

The CARES Act allows institutions to use up to one half of the total funds received to cover any costs associated with significant changes

The funding allocations announced today are part of the nearly $31 billion Congress allocated to the Department to distribute to students, K-12 schools, and higher

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GRANT FUNDING

education institutions under the CARES Act. The Department, at the Secretary's urging, is working to make funds available as quickly as possible.

The Department has taken quick action to support higher education

payments for 60 days without interest. The CARES Act extends those benefits to six months. The Department also stopped all federal wage garnishments and collections actions for borrowers with federally held loans in default. And, within 13 days of President Trump

students from the start of the coronavirus outbreak. Colleges and universities were given immediate regulatory flexibility so students' educations could continue online.

Under the leadership of President Trump, the Department also provided student loan relief to tens of millions of borrowers by setting all federally held student loan interest rates to zero percent and allowing borrowers to defer

signing the CARES Act into law, the Department made $6.2 billion available for emergency cash grants for higher education students. The Department has also disbursed $7 million to Gallaudet University and $13 million to Howard University in accordance with the CARES Act, which allocated this funding to help these unique institutions address the challenges associated with coronavirus.

NAACP CONDEMNS TREASURY DEPARTMENT The NAACP issued the following statement regarding the Treasury Department’s announcement that Donald Trump’s name would be printed on stimulus checks sent to millions of Americans impacted by the coronavirus.

three weeks, over half a million confirmed cases of the virus have

reached our nation’s soil, and twenty-five thousand people have

“The NAACP condemns this unprecedented and brazenly political action of the Treasury Department. It will delay millions of people from receiving the initial economic relief that is needed during this national crisis. Any postponement of the distribution of funds is shameful; to do so, for this reason, it is appalling.

Nearly 17 million people have filed for unemployment in the last

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April 23, 2020 - April 29, 2020

lost their fight with this virus.

This is only the latest example of this administration’s neglect and incompetence when it comes to appropriate preparation for this pandemic and ensuring that Americans have the testing, treatment, and economic relief they need. This man-made disaster has cost thousands of lives and has set our country back economically to the 2008 recession. While this administration has attributed blame to international medical organizations, governors, political parties, and media outlets, at no point has it accepted real accountability for its historic failures in leadership and execution.”

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NEWS PLAN N E E D E D The Florida State Medical Association

(FSMA), a representative organization of the National Medical Association (NMA), the oldest organization of African American professionals representing African American physicians, has requested to meet with Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis to discuss and develop a viable action plan to address the devastating impact of COVID-19 on Florida’s Black residents.

Undeniably, Florida’s Black community, which includes those from the Caribbean and Africa, suffer with high rates of chronic diseases. They also experience social and economic conditions that affect their ability to protect themselves properly from COVID-19. Many hold low-wage occupations such as home health care attendants, delivery drivers, grocery store clerks, and custodial workers that increase their exposure to infected individuals. Other disadvantages include:

To

C om bat COVID-19

In

Bl ack C ommunitie s

population in Florida, there is a need to develop a comprehensive and targeted messaging effort so that information about the COVID-19 infection can be effectively disseminated. It is the desire of the Florida State Medical Association to utilize mainstream media as well as including outside sources such as cultural newspapers and magazines, social media avenues, community activists, public school students, and local entertainers. These efforts will help to put a process in place to effectively communicate the latest information regarding COVID-19 to Black audiences statewide. Additionally, other recommendations on testing, supporting physician practices, and protection for other vulnerable populations will be addressed.

com. Brooks wrote: “At present the CDC has noted that those with chronic lung disease, moderate to severe asthma, serious heart conditions, the immunocompromised, including people living with HIV, those on cancer treatment, the severely obese, diabetics with renal failure, or those with liver disease, are at higher risk for severe illness.”

Brooks continued that this warning should be clearly heard by the African American community. “We are 2.2 times more likely to have diabetes, 20% more likely to have high blood pressure, and 30% more likely to be obese.

Furthermore, the incidence of COPD (lung disease) in our women is 34% higher than in white women. Bottom line, if we acquire this virus, bad things are more likely to happen.”

As of April 9, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported there were 427,460 cases of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in the United States, which resulted in 14,696

To help share this important message throughout our communities and to our leaders in Tallahassee, FSMA also reached out many well-respected healthcare professional organizations,

to help combat and reduce COVID-19 among Florida’s black residents:  As a trusted healthcare voice within the community, FSMA will be a key stakeholder in the planning of the COVID-19 response.  Conduct more robust data collection and reporting, including race.  Increase access to testing: 1) expand the number of testing sites in African American/Black neighborhoods and conduct rapid testing, 2) update testing guidelines to include symptomatic individuals regardless of age, 3) include walk-up testing at all sites in operation, and 4) deploy mobile testing units, with onsite screening without a doctor’s referral.  Increase public education and outreach efforts in African American and all other Black communities, and include materials in Creole for Haitian residents in Florida. This includes engaging and funding community organizations to educate the community on COVID-19.  Increase the availability of PPE (personal protective equipment) for Black physicians, healthcare, environmental, non-clinical, and other low-wage workers.  Maintain the viability of small private physicians’ practices and Federally Qualified Health Centers, including frontline support staff that provide healthcare in the African American and Black communities.

Who We Are : The Florida State  Many live in small multigenerational homes limiting their ability to practice social distancing if symptomatic  Many utilize public transportation  Many have minimal funds to purchase sufficient food, hand sanitizers, masks, and thermometers, and  Many do not have health insurance, further delaying access to medical care.

Because of the diversity of the Black

deaths. There is evidence that COVID-19 has disproportionately affected African American and other Black communities (such as Haitian and Caribbean) in the United States.

There is an impending danger to the lives of African Americans posed by this virus, NMA President Oliver Brooks wrote on March 30 in BlackPressUSA.

including the Northeast Medical Society, the National Medical Association, the Miami Chapter of Black Nurses Association and the Association for Haitian Physicians Abroad, and have received their support.

The Florida State Medical Association (FSMA) recommends the following steps

Medical Association, a representative organization of the National Medical Association (NMA) includes over 2,000 physicians in Florida.

What We Do: We are a collective voice

of African American physicians and their leading force for parity and justice in medicine.

For more information on the FSMA, contact Dr. Cheryl Holder via Black PR Wire at 1-877-BLACKPR.

F A I T H B A S E D O R G A N I Z AT I O N S M ay A P P LY f o r A S S I S TA N C E Faith is a pillar of hope, and for many Americans it has been a powerful reason for their continued success during these challenging times.

The Administration, along with SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza and other SBA leaders, recognized the need to support faith-based organizations and have clarified their ability to participate in the Paycheck Protection and Economic Injury Disaster Loan Programs.

Faith-based organizations may apply regardless of their religious identity or activities, and will be considered to the extent they are eligible as outlined in the CARES Act as passed by Congress, signed into law by President Trump, and implemented by the Paycheck

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Protection Act Interim Final Rule.

“During this global pandemic the SBA stands behind every business, non-profit and faith-based organization,” said SBA Regional Administrator Ashley D. Bell. “We recognize the importance of keeping staff employed and keeping businesses and organizations operational as we push through these difficult times."

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:  The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is designed to keep small business staff employed and provide small businesses with capital through lending institutions, with support from the SBA. The PPP’s maximum loan amount is $10 million with a fixed 1% interest rate and maturity of two years.

SBA will forgive the portion of loan proceeds used for payroll costs and other designated operating expenses for up to eight weeks provided at least 75% of loan proceeds are used for payroll costs.

 PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM INFORMATION: www.SBA.gov/paycheckprotection  TO FIND A PPP LENDER: www.sba.gov/paycheckprotection/find  The Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program provides qualifying small businesses and non-profits with working capital up to $2 million with low interest rates and terms extending up to 30 years and includes an advance payment portion.

April 23, 2020 - April 29, 2020

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C O M M E N TA R Y CBC Critical Of Funding Cuts To WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION In response to President Trump's threat to cut funding to the World Health Organization, the Congressional Black Caucus has released the following statement:

against this deadly virus to save lives. Leadership is defined by expertise, based in facts, and created to serve humankind, which is required to overcome this crisis.

“At a time of crisis, true

decrease the spread of diseases such as Ebola, Cholera, and Yellow Fever. The WHO is established in most countries around the world, and has deployed more than 250,000 testing kits to help fight this pandemic.

leadership seeks to solve problems not blame others.

This President has threatened to cut funding for the World Health Organization (WHO), an organization that has helped

It is ludicrous for this administration to target and vilify WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus while he is in the midst of coordinating the global fight

Caucus condemns the malicious treatment against the WHO and Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus by this administration and encourages Congress to ensure proper

The Congressional Black

funding for the organization to tackle this deadly pandemic.”

Since its establishment in 1971, the Congressional Black Caucus has been committed to using the full Constitutional power, statutory authority, financial resources of the

federal government, community leadership, and international standing to ensure Black people have the opportunity to achieve their dreams.

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If I could do one thing, I’d have a daycare closer to work.

If you could do one thing for your community, what would it be? More daycare centers? More funding for Head Start? Completing the 2020 Census is a safe and easy way to inform how billions of dollars in funding flow into your community for hundreds of services. Respond online, by phone, or by mail.

Complete the census at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.

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ENTER TAINMENT

NEW UNSCRIPTED SERIES

While the nation is staying safer at home together, OWN: OPRAH WINFREY NETWORK announced today that beginning May 16, Saturday nights become "Sisterhood Saturday Nights" with the launch of two new limited unscripted series joining the network's popular lineup, each filmed virtually.

internet star B. Simone, actress and television personality Tami Roman, and celebrity hair stylist Robbi Rogers. More names to be announced.

"Now more than ever before we

TO

PREMIER

Vanzant" Premieres Saturday, May 16 (9 p.m. ET/PT) Executive Produced and hosted by popular inspirational life coach and star of OWN's hit series "Iyanla: Fix My Life," Iyanla

"Fear Not with Iyanla Vanzant" (9 p.m. ET/PT) features Iyanla Vanzant, the star of OWN's hit show "Iyanla: Fix My Life," offering her trusted guidance during the pandemic with special guests including Oprah Winfrey, Grammy Award-winning gospel singer Bebe Winans, and financial educator Tiffany "The Budgetnista" Aliche, with more to be announced.

"Girlfriends Check In" (10 p.m.

ET/PT) brings different groups of female celebrity friends together each week for virtual get togethers where they share laughter, support, love, and gossip. Episodes of "Girlfriends Check In" will feature actress, author, producer and director Meagan Good with her sister La'Myia Good Bellinger, and actresses Tasha Smith and Grace Byers from "Empire." The fun will continue with "The Real" host Loni Love along with comedian and

want to provide our audience with programming that unites and uplifts us," said Tina Perry, president, OWN. "We are excited to bring together sisterhood on Saturday nights, and we are grateful to Iyanla and all of the girlfriends for sharing hope and a little bit of light during this time."

"Fear Not with Iyanla

Vanzant offers guidance on how to live beyond fear, one step at a time. This weekly series includes heart-to-heart conversations with experts and notable guests that explore the basis of human fear, offering guidance and tools that will support guests and viewers in living beyond the stress and anxieties they are now attributing to the

ON

OW N

Coronavirus pandemic. Guests will include Oprah Winfrey, Grammy Award-winning gospel singer Bebe Winans, and financial educator Tiffany "The Budgetnista" Aliche. The series is produced by Bunim/Murray.

"Girlfriends Check In" Premieres Saturday, May 16 (10 p.m. ET/PT) Good girlfriends can get you through anything in life - especially during quarantine. With the help of a little tech and a lot of sisterhood, each week different female celebrity friends will hold a virtual chat room "check in" - spilling the tea about their relationships, their families, sharing new recipes, and reminding us that we are truly all in this together. Episodes of "Girlfriends Check In" will feature actress, author, producer and director Meagan Good with her sister La'Myia Good Bellinger, and actresses Tasha Smith and Grace Byers from "Empire." The fun will continue with "The Real" host Loni Love along with comedian and internet star B. Simone, actress and television personality Tami Roman, and celebrity hair stylist Robbi Rogers. More names to be announced. The six-episode series is produced by Critical Content.

MICHELLE OBAMA DOCUMENTARY Dropping On NETFLIX Next Week

BECOMING is tied to Obama's best-selling book of the same name, which was published in 2018. The film, directed by Nadia Hallgren, follows Obama across 34 cities for her book tour. It features the former First Lady as she speaks to everyday Americans and shares what she learned during her husband's two terms as president.

"Those months I spent traveling meeting and connecting with people in cities across the globe - drove home the idea that what we share in common is deep and real and can't be messed with. In groups large and small, young and old, unique and united, we came together and shared stories, filling those spaces with our joys, worries, and dreams," she wrote in a press release. "We processed the past and imagined a better future. In talking about the idea of 'becoming,' many of us dared to say our hopes out loud."

The former President and First Lady signed a deal with Netflix and began their own production company, Higher Ground, in 2018. Prior to Becoming, the pair released their

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first film American Factory, which won the Best Documentary Feature Oscar. They were also involved in Nicole Newnham and James LeBrecht's documentary about camp teens with disabilities, Crimp Camp.

together to weather this pandemic, as we care for our loved ones, tend to our communities, and try to keep up with work and school while coping with huge amounts of loss, confusion, and uncertainty," she said.

our new reality: Things that once felt simple - going to see a friend, sitting with someone who is hurting, embracing someone new - are now not simple at all."

Obama talked about what she hoped the release of her documentary would do for everyone self-isolating during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I treasure the memories and that sense of connection now more than ever, as we struggle

"As many of you know, I'm a hugger.

My whole life, I've seen it as the most natural and equalizing gesture one human can make toward another - the easiest way of saying, 'I'm here for you," she wrote. "And this is one of the toughest parts of

"Even in hard times, maybe especially in hard times, our stories help cement our values and strengthen our connections. Sharing the shows us the way forward. I love you and miss you all."

April 23, 2020 - April 29, 2020

She concluded her announcement in a way that gives us a good sense of what the tone of her documentary will be - inspiring and optimistic.

"But I'm here for you. And I know you are here for one another. Even as we can no longer safely gather or feed off the energy of groups, even as many of us are living with grief, loneliness, and fear, we need to stay open and able to put ourselves in other people's shoes. Empathy is our lifeline here. It's what will get us to the other side. Let's use it to redirect our attention toward what matters most, reconsider our priorities, and find ways to better remake the world in the image of our hopes," she said.

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ENTER TAINMENT

Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds I S

B A B Y F A C E , the award-winning

music producer behind some of the biggest artists, songs and record label, LaFace Records, revealed that he too had been stricken with COVID-19.

“I feel so blessed to be able to celebrate another birthday,” confessed the Grammy-award winning producer in an Instagram post. “I tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, as did my family,” he wrote.

“It’s an incredibly scary thing to go through, my friends,” the 62-year-old singer and songwriter shared.

“I’m happy to report we have now tested negative and are on our way back to full health,” he said.

Once a person is exposed to the coronavirus, the body starts producing proteins called antibodies to fight the infection. As these antibodies start to successfully contain the virus and keep it from replicating in the body, symptoms usually begin to lessen and you start to feel better. Eventually, if all goes well, your immune system will completely destroy all of the virus in your system.

A person who was infected with and survived a virus with no long-term health effects or disabilities has “recovered.”

Doctors say that, in general, once you have recovered from a viral infection, your body will keep cells called lymphocytes in your system. These cells now “know” the viruses they’ve previously seen and can react quickly to fight them off again. So hopefully, someone like Babyface, his antibodies

FEELING

“SO BLESSED”

will likely stop the virus before it starts causing symptoms. Hopefully effectively becoming immune.

But unfortunately, immunity isn’t perfect. For many viruses, like mumps, immunity can weaken over time, leaving you susceptible to the virus in the future. This is what some are seeing in a few cases in China. Some who have gone through it and “recovered” are not testing positive again. Even though it’s a very small number, it’s something to be aware of.

Because of Babyface’s newfound health, he listed the news that his muchanticipated music debate against New Jack Swing music producer, Teddy Riley, is back on.

Many folks on social media were tripping when they heard the news that the online music competition didn’t happen last week…especially when they didn’t know why.

But now the reason is clear.

“With that being said, I’d like to officially accept the invitation by the legendary Swizz Beatz and Timbaland to participate with my little brother Teddy Riley in what I’d like to call a Celebration of Black Music Excellence, Teddy Riley vs. Babyface,” the singer posted on his Instagram.

The new date is April 18, 2020 and fans are elated.

No matter who wins the competition, we’re just happy that Babyface won the fight against coronavirus.

Much Love.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN DATING APP OFFERS LIVE VIDEO DATING

Tyler Perry Pays Grocery Bills For Seniors Filmmaker, actor, and playwright Tyler Perry is once again making headlines for helping those who are largely affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Under the name “Atlanta Angel,” he reportedly paid for the groceries of all elderly shoppers at over 70 supermarkets in Atlanta and New Orleans.

The 50-year old entertainment tycoon, who grew up in New Orleans and now currently lives in Atlanta, purchased the groceries for seniors at 44 Kroger stores in Atlanta and 29 Winn-Dixie stores in New Orleans. The receipts for those groceries showed that it was paid for by “Atlanta Angel.”

The Meet Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: MEET), a leading provider of interactive livestreaming solutions, has created two new features designed to help users connect while maintaining proper dating distance on its popular mobile application, Tagged -- the

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country’s largest dating app primarily focused on African Americans.

The elderly shoppers who benefitted from Perry’s generosity are those who were shopping during the reserved hour for them. Grocery stores have been advised to block off the first one or two hours of their business day so the elderly and immunocompromised people can shop with lesser risk to contract the coronavirus.

Meanwhile, Kroger’s Atlanta division expressed their gratitude to Perry. “We would like to join our customers in thanking Mr. Perry for his kindness and generosity during this unprecedented pandemic. It was truly a pleasure to see our customers fill with joy and gratitude as the news spread throughout 44 stores across Metro Atlanta,” its manager of corporate affairs Felix Turner said in a statement.

Winn-Dixie also thanked Perry for “paying it forward by purchasing groceries for elderly and high-risk [Winn-Dixie] customers shopping at Louisiana stores this morning.

Winn-Dixie applauds your love for community and sincere generosity,” the company said in a tweet.

It was not the first time Perry discreetly helped other people during the coronavirus pandemic. Last week, Perry gave a $500 tip to each of the 42 workers who were laid off at his favorite restaurant – a grand total of $21,000.

The two features, Blind Date and 1:1 Video Chat, are designed to provide socially distant users with options to engage and build new relationships.

April 23, 2020 - April 29, 2020

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BUSINE S S

‘Most Influential Black Execs in Corporate America’ Sallie Mae® Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Donna Vieira, has been named to Savoy Magazine’s list of the “2020 Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America.”

Savoy’s “Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America” is the definitive listing of African American achievers in corporate America.

Selections are based on executives’ exemplary record of accomplishments, as well as their commitment to bettering their community and inspiring others.

An industry veteran, Vieira joined Sallie Mae in 2019 and oversees private student loans, retail banking, and credit cards as well as product development, sales, marketing, government relations, communications and community relations. She continues to advance Sallie Mae as the premier brand in helping students and families access college and continuous education, plan successful outcomes, and responsibly fund their future. Vieira is bringing that customercentric vision to life through a brand

executive and business leadership in national and global-leading corporations,” said L.P. Green, II, Publisher of Savoy magazine. “These innovative trailblazers have led efforts to foster growth for some of the country’s highest-performing companies throughout and beyond the US market.”

and digital transformation that will meet customers where they are and make experiences simple, intuitive, personalized, and mobile first.

“Savoy is proud to present the 2020 Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America. In this issue, we assembled an elite representation of African American men and women who have been recognized for their

Vieira is also active in the community, supporting individuals and families with disabilities through her work with the Special Olympics Delaware. In addition, she was appointed by Delaware Governor John Carney to Chair the Office of the Treasurer’s Plans Management Board to help families plan and save for post-secondary education. Vieira is a member of the Executive Leadership Council, an organization committed to increasing the number of black executives globally. “Being named to Savoy’s list of ‘Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America’ is an honor that wouldn’t be possible if not for those who came before me,” said Vieira. “I am surrounded and reminded of a community of trailblazers who

Honored

have paved the path forward, and I’m grateful to be in a position to help the next generation of leaders prepare for their own journey through the power of higher education.”

Prior to joining Sallie Mae, Vieira served as chief marketing officer for consumer banking and wealth management at JPMorgan Chase.

She has also held executive leadership roles at Dun & Bradstreet, Merrill Lynch, and American Express.

Sallie Mae (Nasdaq: SLM) believes education and life-long learning, in all forms, help people achieve great things. As the leader in private student lending, we provide financing and know-how to support access to college and offer products and resources to help customers make new goals and experiences, beyond college, happen.

Learn more at SallieMae.com.

Commonly known as Sallie Mae, SLM Corporation and its subsidiaries are not sponsored by or agencies of the United States of America.

View source version on businesswire. com: https://www.businesswire.com/ news/home/20200402005711/en/

A BLACK MAN DID THIS

Mark Dean developed the first industry standard PC interface.

This Black History Month, we celebrate unknown and unsung Black innovators, inventors and contributors who have helped shape, change and improve our world.

Learn more at aarp.org/blackcommunity

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April 23, 2020 - April 29, 2020

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BUSINE S S

U S D A I n c r e a s e s M o n t h ly S N A P B e n e f i t s

The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced emergency benefit increases have reached $2.0 billion per month for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households across all 50 states and 3 territories to increase food security during the coronavirus national emergency. These emergency benefits represent a 40% increase in overall monthly SNAP benefits, significantly increasing food purchasing power for American families.

“These are unprecedented times for American families who are facing joblessness and hunger. USDA is providing a 40% increase in SNAP benefits to ensure that low-income individuals have enough food to feed themselves and their families during this national emergency,” said Secretary Perdue. “President Trump is taking care of America’s workingclass families who have been hit hard with economic distress due to the coronavirus. Ensuring all households receive the maximum allowable SNAP benefit is an important part of President Trump’s whole of America response to the coronavirus.”

Currently, a household with two adults, 3 children, and no income can receive the maximum benefit of $768.

However, due to reportable income and other factors, the average 5-person household receives significantly less, $528. These emergency benefits would provide the average 5-person household an additional $240 monthly in food purchasing power, bringing the average household up to the same benefit level as households already receiving the maximum.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), signed into law by President Trump, provided for

by

40%

the issuance of emergency allotments in response to COVID-19. Across the United States, emergency allotments total nearly $2 billion per month, which is in addition to approximately $4.5 billion in benefits already provided to SNAP households each month.

All SNAP households that are eligible to receive less than the maximum benefit will receive the emergency

of Columbia. States could request to provide an emergency allotment for current SNAP households beginning in March. USDA is continuing to work closely with states so that supplements are provided in subsequent months as this public health emergency warrants, as outlined in FFCRA. Today’s announcement is the latest in a series of actions that USDA’s Food and

specific needs when traditional channels of food are unavailable, to 16 States and territories, and 29 tribes;  Providing more than one million meals a week to rural children through public-private partnership Meals to You;  Allowing states to serve free meals to children in all areas across more than 35,000 feeding sites nation-wide;  Maximizing flexibilities, such as parent-pickup and meal times requirements, for the free meals provided through schools and other providers;  Increasing access to online purchasing by expanding the online purchasing pilot to cover half of all SNAP households;  Debuting “Meals for Kids” interactive site finder – to help families find meals for children while schools are closed; and  Providing administrative flexibilities in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to allow for social distancing and for State to more quickly process new applications.

allotment supplement to bring them up to the maximum. By law, SNAP households are not permitted to receive more than the maximum allotment.

SNAP emergency allotments allow states to raise benefits to the maximum amount for the household’s size for up to two months, and USDA is providing additional guidance today to states that want to further extend these emergency allotments month by month as prescribed by the law.

Nutrition Service has taken to uphold the USDA’s commitment to “Do Right and Feed Everyone” during this national emergency. Other actions include:  Providing more than 227 million pounds of food – valued at $243 million through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), with another $850 million available from the FFCRA and Coronavirus Aid, Recovery, and Economic Stimulus (CARES) Act.  Launching Pandemic-EBT (P-EBT) to provide the value of school breakfast and lunch to families eligible for free and reduce-price lunch;  Issuing Disaster Household Distributions, food targeted to meet

These actions and more are part of USDA’s focus on service during the COVID-19 outbreak. For additional information on the many actions FNS has taken to respond to COVID-19, visit www.fns.usda.gov/coronavirus or follow us @USDANutrition.

Hawaii - approved last Friday - was the final state agency authorized to provide the emergency allotments, which are now authorized in all 50 states, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District

FNS administers 15 nutrition assistance programs that leverage American’s agricultural abundance to ensure children and low-income individuals and families have nutritious food to eat. FNS also co-develops the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which provide sciencebased nutrition recommendations and serve as the cornerstone of federal nutrition policy.

Wendy Muhammad Launches COVID-19 Entrepreneur Challenge LETS UNITE TO SAVE OUR COMMUNIT Y

Entrepreneurs are the historical Change Makers of the African American Community. We are the leaders, developers, strategists, money makers, thinkers and thought leaders. We solve problems and introduce much needed goods and services into our communities.

African Americans make up to 70% of all COVID-19 related deaths. We must step up and do something for ourselves. Let's unite to help save our community from this COVID-19 pandemic.

Business Developer, Wendy Muhammad, is challenging all Conscious Entrepreneurs to STEP UP and TAKE CHARGE of their communities.

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"I am asking all Conscious Entrepreneurs to identify a problem in their community and work to fix it. Let's perform wellness checks on the people in our community who are most vulnerable. Let's support a fellow entrepreneur by patronizing them, spreading the word about their services. We can form alliances. Let's take charge and save our community from this pandemic.

There is no problem that we can't solve if we put our minds together.

We can change the narrative. Doing for self needs to go viral."  Wendy Muhammad

To accept the MOETODAY Conscious Entrepreneur Challenge, post a photo or a video along with a short explanation of how you are helping a fellow entrepreneur or members of your

community during this tragic pandemic.

Tag us on Instagram @MOEToday or on Facebook @MindoftheEntrepreneur.

Be sure to say, "I accept the Conscious Entrepreneur Challenge" in your post.

Use the hashtags

April 23, 2020 - April 29, 2020

#ConsciousEntrepreneurChallenge and #MindofanEntrepreneur Together we can pool our resources, form alliances and address all the needs in our community. Love is the super power that will get us there.

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HE ALTH

ASSOCIATION

of

BLACK CARDIOLOGISTS

The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) issued frequently asked questions (FAQ Watch) for healthcare providers related to COVID-19. The novel coronavirus outbreak has caused significant disruption to global health, especially for vulnerable populations in the U.S. The ABC created FAQ Watch to provide a succinct update on the science and clinical challenges posed by the disease and potential cardiac implications. FAQ Watch will be updated as needed or at least weekly by its editors Kevin M. Alexander, MD (Chair), Michelle A. Albert, MD, MPH (ABC President), Peter Chin-Hong, MD, MPH, and Norrisa Haynes, MD, MPH. In addition to informing health care providers about the science and clinical aspects of the coronavirus infection, the ABC is undertaking efforts to raise awareness in diverse populations. The organization is particularly concerned about the pandemic's effect on the AfricanAmerican diaspora and other underserved groups.

"ABC has been at the forefront of addressing cardiovascular disparities in our communities," said Elizabeth Ofili, MD, MPH, ABC Board Chair. "The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed severe inequities in access to healthcare and preventive services. As a

nation, we have an unprecedented opportunity to address these issues, by working with affected communities, and the healthcare providers who serve them."

Releases

COVID-19 FAQ WATCH

incorporated. FAQ Watch answers other critical questions, including how communities of color can diminish the spread of COVID-19 and decrease their risk of fatal outcomes.

ABC is inspired by how different communities are pulling together

Albert introduces ABC COVID-19 Information & Resource Hub and highlights the Council on Black Health's brief, "What Coronavirus Means for Black Communities."  ABC and other health Care Groups Issue Urgent Call for Federal Action to Address Medical Equipment Shortages  ABC hosts a webinar, "At the Heart of the Matter: Unmasking the Invisibility of COVID-19 in Diverse Populations." Now available for viewing.  ABC President Dr. Michelle Albert joins KDKA Radio host Lynne Hayes-Freeland to discuss COVID-19, health care disparities, and African Americans.

Elizabeth Ofili, MD, MPH

(PRNewsfoto/Association of Black Cardiology)

FAQ Watch covers the clinical stages of COVID-19, associated cardiovascular complications and treatments currently advised for COVID-19 management.

Recommended changes in practice for interventional cardiologists and catheterization laboratories as well as new guidance for transthoracic echo and transesophageal echo procedures have also been

Michelle Albert, MD, MPH

(PRNewsfoto/Association of Black Cardiology)

at individual, leadership, medical, scientific and public health levels to mitigate the impact of this pandemic. This downloadable FAQ is a new component of earlier actions ABC initiated in response to the virus:  ABC President Dr. Michelle

Founded in 1974, the ABC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating the disparities related to cardiovascular disease and achieving health equity such that all people can live long healthy lives.

Membership is open to all interested in the care of people with or at risk for cardiovascular disease, including health professionals, lay members of the community (Community Health Advocates), corporate and institutional members. For more information, visit www.abcardio. org and connect with ABC on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.

‘ Black is Human ’ To A d d r e s s C OV I D - 1 9 In AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY In response to the devastating impact COVID-19 continues to have on the African American community, Burrell Communications Group has released a video PSA entitled “For Jason” as part of its “Black is Human” initiative. The goal is to raise awareness of the severity of COVID-19 within the African American community, and provide streamlined access to critical and relevant information, via the Black is Human webpage.

The PSA pays tribute to Detroit Transit Authority veteran, Jason Hargrove, who died in late March from COVID-19 complications after posting an impassioned plea for public safety via Facebook. The

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video quickly went viral, garnering more than 805,000 views and 23,000 reshares as it brought national attention to the dire need for all essential workers to be armed with personal protective equipment.

According to the McKinsey & Company report, COVID-19: Investing in Black Lives and Livelihoods, 39% of jobs held by black workers (seven million jobs in all) are vulnerable as a result of the COVID-19 crisis, compared with 34% for white workers. The majority of black workers, by the very nature of their jobs, are putting their lives and health on the line to provide necessary goods and services to our society.

Jason Hargrove

April 23, 2020 - April 29, 2020

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END NO TE S Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, Snoop Dogg TO HEADLINE MUSIC FESTIVAL Premier ticket and hotel reseller, Berrywise Enterprise is providing ticket and hotel packages for the 2 0 2 0 CINC I N N AT I MU SIC F E S T IVAL. The iconic event will happen Thursday, July 23 to Saturday, July 25, at the Paul Brown Stadium on the Cincinnati riverfront. Attendees will have a memorable experience with prime seating and accommodations.

artists, along with the hottest contemporary R&B performers.

Last year’s event drew a crowd of almost 50K music lovers.

This year’s line-up includes the legendary talent of Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, Snoop Dogg, The O’Jays, Fantasia, Tank, Tony, Toni, Tone, PJ Morton, Johnathan Butler, Kirk Whalum, Biz Markie, and BJ The Chicago Kidd. Ticket prices start at $70 and are available a la carte or within a bundle. Visit www. berrywiseenterprise.com to purchase packages/tickets and for festival updates.

“Here at Berrywise Enterprise, we are dedicated to you and your Cincinnati Music Festival ticket and hotel needs,” says Zachary Berry, founder of the company.

“We’ve won a number of great comments for our work with the festival. But, our most important win is making you a happy, lifelong patron.”

Berrywise Enterprise is an authorized ticket and hotel reseller with over 40 years of experience.

In addition to providing competitive pricing, customers receive a variety of benefits such as the choice to customize their hotel/ ticket package, use payment plans, USPS certified shipping and hotel confirmation three weeks prior to the event.

The Cincinnati Music Festival is one of the nation’s oldest and most highly anticipated music festivals, attracting local and regional guests from across the Midwest. Each year, the festival showcases a bevy of old school

HOWARD HEWETT R E T U R N S Grammy award-winning recording artist Howard Hewett to release new single and debut signature hat line. Hewett’s new R&B/Soul single “U R The One,” produced

by Leon Sylvers III, will release on April 19th. Pre-orders for “U R The One” will be available on domestic and international sites – including Amazon, iTunes, and Spotify on April 1st, 2019.

the contemporary gospel classic, “Say Amen.” Other solo hits include “Show Me”, “Once, Twice, Three Times”, and “I Can’t Tell You Why”

NEW MUSIC

a remarkable cover of the legendary group The Eagles. Hewett recorded on the first “Beverly Hills Cop” soundtrack, which landed him a

Hewett’s new hat line “The Howard Hewett Collection” is scheduled for release in early summer of 2019 debuting two high quality, year around signature hats in smoky gray and black. A Facebook Live Listen event and chat with Hewett will take place on Wednesday, April 17th at 5 pm PST/8pm EST. Stay connected at HowardHewettMusic.com for updates on new music, the “Howard Hewett Collection” hat line and touring dates in U.S. domestic cities, South Africa, and the United Kingdom (U.K.) this spring and summer.

Grammy for his composition, “Don’t Get Stopped in Beverly Hills.”

With 16 albums recorded and over 15 million records sold throughout the world, Hewett remains a viable and legendary force in the music business. He continues to perform and entertain domestically and worldwide and is scheduled to join Shalamar’s “Greatest Hits” 2019 tour. Howard Hewett’s new single “U R The One” releasing April 19th, 2019 will be followed by the early summer debut of his new hat line “The Howard Hewett Collection.”

The Howard Hewett brand has teamed up with long-time Cleveland hatter “Mike the Hatter” from his home state of Ohio. “Mike the Hatter” has been family owned and operated since 1937. The “Howard Hewett Collection” hat line features high quality, year around hats with a distinctive Howard Hewett logo on the ribbon and Hewett’s signature on the inner lining. The Hat Collection is scheduled to be released in early Summer 2019, debuting two styles – in smoky gray and black. The order links will be available on the Howard Hewett Facebook Page and Instagram.

Hewett’s mainstream career began as lead singer of Shalamar. In 1986 Hewett launched his solo career, scoring an immediate R&B hit with “I’m For Real” followed by “Stay”, “I Commit to Love” and

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