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

NAACP CONDEMNS ANTI-RACE THEORY BILLS

The Black Stars News 2015 Annual

By N A A C P R e p r e s e n tat i v e Awards Dinner will honor Mayor An t i - Critical ace Th e ory bills, like the weapons that the British abandoned after DavidRDinkins, Rep. Charles "teacher loyalty" bill recently introduced the War of 1812 and defended their Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, in New R. Hampshire, are oblivious Donahue Peebles, Barbara "New Land" from invasions and rescued solutions looking a problem.

TheSabrina other slaves.

Arnwine,forInez Barron, bill prohibits teachers from advocating Lamb,socialism, Dr. RudyorCrew, Stephen There's documented evidence that, "communism, Marxism" under the command of General Byrd, AliabyJones, or the "overthrow force ofand the the CentralGarson, the "Negro Fort" won several Park of Five of gross injustice government the survivors United States." battles, including battles that led to the on December 18 teachers from 6:00pm Interestingly, the only time are – emancipation of local slaves, decades likely to10:00pm teach about overthrow of 46 West at an MIST Harlem, before the Civil War. The presence of the U.S.116th government by force is when Street. the Negro Fort invoked widespread

I concluded, "If you teach your students this, I promise, your Black students won't 'feel some type of way' about a White woman teaching about slavery."

In 2015, then-presidential candidate Donald Trump insulted many by saying of John McCain, "He's not a war hero… I like people who weren't captured."

Until that point, John McCain was universally considered a war hero, primarily because of the 5 years he spent as a North Vietnamese prisoner. But

YEARS!

York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system.

Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their Walker's revolutionary calls, NatProduction, Turner's company Front Row insurrections, Harriet Tubman's great brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” escapes, to the Black Union Soldiers. and “A Streetcar Named Desire” In truth,with the Black people we call a multi-ethnic cast"slaves" to were prisoners of war who deserve Broadway. In 2016 they bring more recognition John McCain; “Eclipsed”than with Oscar Winner And the history books that recast Black Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. people as "slaves" should be viewed

as unconventional unpatriotic Honorees, and the as so-called Central consternation among southern slave “Each honoree chosen for as Trump's bizarre celebration of the Park 5, are collectively and In response to a section the law owners. Florida is also the home of many recognition has of demonstrated individually heroes. They are that prohibits "teaching that the United Haitians. In Haiti, enslaved Africans, not exceptional leadership and vision inonly won freedom from bondage, but also States was founded on racism," one of survivors of one of the ugliest David Dinkins Charles Rangel her or his respective profession bill's co-sponsors, Representative Erica or formed an independent republic through miscarriage of justice in New York’s andstated in some Layton endeavor (R), ignorantly thatsignificant slavery militarywas victory. history; having been railroaded majority.

She now leads The a member of the New York measure hasway contributed towards Nearby, in South Carolina, Africans was "already on the out," a century and unjustly convicted for a crime Transformative Justice Coalition.

City Council, representing the creating a more just society in this escaped slavery before the Civil War. th and started sovereign they did not commit and for which Arnwine was for 26 years executive 40 council district in Brooklyn, country,” saysand Black Star News colonies on islands off the coast that Conscious historians teacher they served long prison sentences director of the Lawyers’ Committee succeeding her mother, Una S. founder publisher educators should and design teaching Milton predate Plymouth Rock, with African th ranging from seven years to 13 years for Civil Rights Under the Law. T. Clarke. In the current 114 Allimadi.

“Obviously much work curriculum, not racially obtuse elected cultural artifacts that have survived to before being exonerated when the Congress of Clarke onit Inez Barron, honoree, formerly a officials.needs Instead bills prohibiting this day. Speaking South serves Carolina, toofbe done here and actual rapist confessed. They are: thethat Energy and Commerce teachers from teaching the truth about was here ex-slave Robert Smalls State Assembly member, is now around the world.”

Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond racists aspects of American history, learnedCommittee, to pilot a ship responsible and earned for a New York City council member The gala starts at 6:00pm with a Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin consumer protection, food we need bills that provide provisions his freedom by commandeering a and a champion of education for cocktail hourhow to be followed by theConfederate Richardson, and Kharey Wise. for training teachers to teach warship and delivering it to safety, energy development, public our youth. dinner ceremonies. sensitive topicsand like awards the enslavement of There the Union Army. health, communications, the The Black Star News, which focuses Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is Africanswill andbethe murderentertainment of indigenous by musical environment, and interstate and on investigative journalism, has populations. a legendary radio talk show host opera singer Cassandra Douglas …international . w e n e e dcommerce. to stop been featured as a result of some if and executive fromatharmonica A Whiteand teacher a training inphenomenon Florida Photo Source: naacp.orgproducer, radio DJ, t e aR.c hDonahue i n g a b oPeebles, u t ' s l ahonoree, ves' its news scoops, on CNN, The New is poet, songwriter, music recording told me,William "I teach at a mostlyDavid Black school Galison.

Dinkins is a n d s t a r t t e a c h i n g a b o u t York Daily News, The New York a leading developer and founder of and slavery is a sensitive and painful artist and producer, rapper, writer honored for Lifetime Achievement ' B l a c k p e o p l e ' d u r i n g Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s Trump altered the narrative, turningHe a beganVietcong.

The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest topic, and my was BlackNew students to first and community activist.

— he Yorkseem City’s s l a v e r y .

Content magazine. tale of courage strength and endurance African American-owned real feel some type ofAmerican way about mayor a Whiteand also his career as a radio DJ in BuffaloMy grandfather's grandfathers were African into a symbol of weakness.

In an woman teaching about slavery." estate firm with $3.5 billion worth Granderson Conn and Past Black StarPapa NewsCharlie,' honorees at age 15.unpatriotic For overway, 30 years, welcomed Nelson Mandela to theBefore the Civil War, several hundred unconventionally Trump he’s two Africans of properties under development in American who were born It Slaverycity wasafter morehis than a "painful period." have included: Gil Noble (Like enslaved Africans escaped every month been a talkthe show host at WBLS and release in 1990. made the Vietcong heroes. into slavery and died CivilWaters, War veterans or management he was It was a period of active resistance for and immediately began to— shape the one Is), Rep. Maxine Soledad WLIB radio in New York City. Hefor the Union Army. The Civil War didn't The captivity and forced labor of Africans Rep. Charles ofhemisphere. the pioneering Black people.

From theRangel, foundingalso of honored Western Somedeveloperswho established O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, also has(despairingly a Friday night radio known as talk happen to end slavery, like portrayed for Lifetime Achievement, this nation, when Black loyalists and has autonomous helped turn around revitalize in the Americas maroon colonies,and some Voza Rivers Heritage Theatre), on WBAI. slavery)show is presented the same way to in schools.

The Civil (New War happened Black patriots on bothsince sides1971. of served fought in Congress He established is roots in other nations, and the once-blighted Anacostia Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel students.

It is taught from the captor's the American Revolution, the Civil Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founderbecause Black people made slavery many joined the abolitionist movements. D.C. a recipient of The to Bronze medal for neighborhood in Washington, Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William perspective, re-imaging labor camps untenable for the Union. And the Union War, when all Black Brown tipped off the Civil of World of Money, is a champion helping savebrigades soldiers fought behindforenemyWhen John A champion of African-American Pollard (Medgar Evers College), into "plantations" and amoral sadists didn't win the war with Black people's freedom, Black people valiantly attacking Harpers Ferry, he Peebles’ is of financial literacy for youth-- shehopes and prayers; they won the war with line during thefought Korean War.for War byeconomic empowerment into "masters." The universal heroism, Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba their freedom and actively shaped their was accompanied by several ex-slaves, teaches knowledge about handlingBlack people's blood and bravery. contemplating a possible run for NYC endurance, and resistance of African Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna own destiny. including his co-defendant "Emperor" money, are budgeting and planning. forced laborers recasts as passive mayor in 2017. member of the US House of Fountain (Columbia University), Shields Green.

In America, we don't teach that Britain In the state of Florida, as a Spanish "slaves"Dr. who were Crew, waiting honoree, for the White Rudy is one of Representatives from New "gave" the colonies independence.

We Dancy Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil conscious community to free them. territory in the early 1800s, enslaved There's so much more to say, but we th teach that the colonists fought for it.

We (Local the nation’s leading educators.

He’s York whose 9 district covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd Africans escaped southern slave states lawyer, about is a champion of need torights stop teaching 'slaves' and Black people have always been front and need our elected officials to acknowledge to formmuch colonies cooperative of and central Brooklyn. Before start teaching 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College aboutvoting 'Blackrights people'ofduring protecting ethnic our own liberation; from the the same for Black people and agreements with Congress Native Americans. entering in 2007, she slavery. minority groups — the emerging center of Action Network), and Black many others. of The City University of New emancipation.

Black Loyalist and Black Patriots, David teaching about the Confederacy.

They even took command of a cache of

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

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N AT ION AL

ARCHBISHOP DESMOND TUTU PASSES AWAY

Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu ,

a towering figure who helped bring an end to apartheid in South Africa, has passed away in Cape Town. He was 90.

“The passing of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu is another chapter of bereavement in our nation’s farewell to a generation of outstanding South Africans who have bequeathed us a liberated South Africa,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a statement early Sunday.

“Desmond Tutu was a patriot without equal; a leader of principle and pragmatism who gave meaning to the biblical insight that faith without works is dead.”

The passionate advocate for freedom headed the country’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission in the 1990s, a grueling inquiry that investigated crimes during the apartheid era. It was widely seen as a crucial healing step during South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy. The TRC became a model for similar commissions in other parts of the continent.

Tutu was also the first Black bishop of Johannesburg and later became the Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town. He was known for working tirelessly for racial justice and LBGTQ rights.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called Tutu “a towering global figure for peace & justice.”

Former President Obama described him as “a moral compass” and “universal spirit.”

Tutu, an Anglican clergyman, used the pulpit

to preach and galvanize public opinion against the injustice faced by South Africa’s Black majority.

“Today’s authorization introduces the first treatment for COVID-19 that is in the form of a pill that is taken orally — a major step forward in the fight against this global pandemic,” Dr. Patrizia Cavazzoni, Director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in an agency news release.

“This authorization provides a new tool to combat COVID-19 at a crucial time in the pandemic as new variants emerge.”

Pfizer first asked for emergency

In 1990, after 27 years in prison, Nelson Mandela spent his first night of freedom at Tutu’s residence in Cape Town.

After the fall of the apartheid regime, with Mandela leading the country as its first Black president, Tutu headed the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which laid bare the terrible truths of white rule.

“His contributions to struggles against injustice, locally and globally, are matched only by the depth of his thinking about the making of liberatory futures for human societies,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation said in a statement.

Tutu’s legacy surpasses borders and “will echo throughout the ages,” U.S. President Joe Biden said in a statement Sunday.

"We were blessed to spend time with him on several occasions over the past many years,” Biden said on behalf of himself and his wife, Jill. “His courage and moral clarity helped inspire our commitment to change American policy toward the repressive Apartheid regime in South Africa.”

Biden was outspoken about apartheid when he traveled to the country as a senator in 1976, when he said he refused to be separated from his Black colleagues.

authorization in mid-November, and later announced stunning final trial results on the power of Paxlovid to guard against severe COVID-19. In that trial, the pill, taken for five days, slashed a person’s odds for hospitalization and death by nearly 90% in high-risk people. Paxlovid should be taken within three to five days of symptom onset, the FDA said.

“Today’s authorization of Paxlovid represents another tremendous example of how science will help us ultimately defeat this pandemic, which, even two years in, continues to disrupt and devastate lives across the world,” Pfizer Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla said in a company statement.

“This breakthrough therapy, which has

Photo Credit: Scott Barbour/Getty Images

Tutu also campaigned internationally for human rights, especially LGBTQ rights and same-sex marriage.

“I would not worship a God who is homophobic,” he said in 2013, launching a campaign for LGBTQ rights in Cape Town. “I would refuse to go to a homophobic heaven.

No, I would say, ‘Sorry, I would much rather go to the other place.’”

Tutu said he was “as passionate about this campaign as I ever was about apartheid.

For me, it is at the same level.” He was one

FOR

of the most prominent religious leaders to advocate LGBTQ rights — a stance that put him at odds with many in South Africa and across the continent as well as within the Anglican church.

A seven-day mourning period is planned in Cape Town before Tutu’s burial, including a two-day lying in state, an ecumenical service and an Anglican requiem mass at St. George’s Cathedral in Cape Town. The southern city’s landmark Table Mountain will be lit up in purple, the color of the robes Tutu wore as archbishop.

AT- H O M E C O V I D T R E AT M E N T

been shown to significantly reduce hospitalizations and deaths and can be taken at home, will change the way we treat COVID-19, and hopefully help reduce some of the significant pressures facing our health care and hospital systems.”

“Paxlovid’s approval is a major milestone that marks another step towards making COVID-19 a much more manageable infection,” said Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, in Baltimore. “An oral pill that can cut hospitalizations and deaths by 90% is path-breaking. There are two key issues, however, that remain: it will be scarce in the coming weeks, and its optimal use requires prompt diagnosis, which can be difficult with the continual testing problems that plague us.”

At the time of the trial results, Bourla stressed the importance of adding another weapon to the COVID-fighting arsenal.

“This news provides further corroboration that our oral antiviral candidate, if authorized or approved, could have a meaningful impact on the lives of many, as the data further support the efficacy of Paxlovid in reducing hospitalization and death, and show a substantial decrease in viral load. This underscores the treatment candidate’s potential to save the lives of patients around the world,” Bourla said in a company statement released Dec. 14 with the trial results. “Emerging variants of concern, like Omicron, have exacerbated the need for accessible treatment options for those who contract the virus, and we are confident that, if authorized or approved, this potential treatment could be a critical tool to help quell the pandemic.”

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90

Tutu, the first Black bishop of Johannesburg and later the first Black archbishop of Cape Town, was a vocal activist for racial justice and LGBTQ rights not just in South Africa but around the world.

FDA APPROVES PFIZER PILL The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday approved the emergency use of Pfizer’s new antiviral pill Paxlovid in people who are at high risk for severe COVID-19. It’s the first approved treatment for COVID-19 meant to be taken at home.

AT

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

Pfizer also delivered some good news about people who are at low risk for severe COVID-19 at that point: In an early analysis, a second, ongoing study that tested whether Paxlovid eased COVID-19 symptoms faster in people who are not considered high-risk found no benefit for symptom relief.

But those who took the pill regimen saw the amount of virus in their bodies plummet, and the pill reduced the already low risk for hospitalization and death. That study included those who were vaccinated and had at least one risk factor for severe COVID-19.

Paxlovid is a combination of a new molecule developed specifically to disable SARS-CoV-2 and ritonavir, an HIV medication that helps slow the breakdown of the coronavirusspecific molecule.

The drug does have some limitations.

Ritonavir can interact with many commonly taken medicines, and those risks may need to be managed by physicians and pharmacists, the FDA said.

Possible side effects of Paxlovid include impaired sense of taste, diarrhea, high blood pressure and muscle aches, the FDA said.

Using Paxlovid in people with uncontrolled or undiagnosed HIV infection may trigger HIV-1 drug resistance. Ritonavir can cause liver damage, so caution should be used when giving Paxlovid to patients with liver conditions, the agency added.

Paxlovid is also not recommended in patients with severe kidney impairment. In patients with moderate kidney impairment, a reduced Paxlovid dose is needed, the FDA said.

For more information on COVID, visit our COVID-19 resource center.

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NEWS S TAT E E F F O R T A I M E D With the fight against COVID-19 far from over, Walgreens and Harlem New Yorkbased initiative for civic engagement, Faith for Black Lives, have come together to call upon churches to be community bullhorns for combatting persistent vaccine hesitancy and to drive the importance of COVID vaccination for children and young adults. ‘Shots for Tots’ combines Walgreens onsite vaccination clinics and vaccine literacy with programs happening at participating churches. The effort kicksoff Dec. 18 and will continue in the coming weeks, with clinics to be held across 10 states.

“We are grateful to Walgreens for the opportunity to expand access to COVID-19 vaccinations for children and families throughout the nation by hosting community-based vaccination clinics with our partnering faith communities,” said Rev. Stephen A. Green, Founder, Faith for Black Lives, and Senior Pastor, St. Luke AME Church, in the village of Harlem, New York. “This campaign, launching this Holiday season, will continue throughout the upcoming year to increase vaccinations among young people and communities of color.”

Green says the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic has been a centerpiece issue for activism in churches, especially in underserved rural and urban communities where vaccine rates are low and vaccine hesitancy is often high. According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, uptake of COVID vaccination remains lowest among Black Americans, compared to Whites and Hispanics,

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Photo Credit: @dreamcannafund

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large in part due to misinformation about the effects of COVID vaccines.

The Walgreens and Faith for Black Lives Shots for Tots effort focuses on tackling hesitancy all while encouraging families to seek primary vaccinations for adult family members and eligible children, as well as booster doses for eligible adults and teens, at their nearest Walgreens. And, just in time for the holidays, many of this weekend’s clinics will also include toy drives for families in need this winter season.

“Churches, organizations like Faith for Black Lives and leaders like Rev. Green are vitally important to helping ensure the vaccine reaches under-represented and often hard-to-reach populations,” said Carlos Cubia, SVP and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer for Walgreens Boots Alliance. “Walgreens is grateful for their partnership, as we know that our success reaching patients in medically underserved areas is reliant upon the trusted role of faith leaders and communities.”

Walgreens (www.walgreens.com) is included in the United States segment of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA), an integrated pharmacy, healthcare and retail leader serving millions of customers and patients every day, with a 170-year heritage of caring for communities. As America’s most loved pharmacy, health and beauty company, Walgreens purpose is to champion the health and well-being of every community in America. Operating nearly 9,000 retail locations across America, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Walgreens is proud to be a neighborhood health destination serving approximately 9 million customers each day. Walgreens pharmacists play a

critical role in the U.S. healthcare system by providing a wide range of pharmacy and healthcare services. To best meet the needs of customers and patients, Walgreens offers a true omnichannel experience, with fully integrated physical and digital platforms, supported by the latest technology to deliver highquality products and services in local communities nationwide.

Faith for Black Lives is a coalition of faith leaders committed to building beloved communities through radical love in action. Our mission is to advance an affirmative vision for systemic equality through grassroots organizing, leadership convenings, and issue-based advocacy.

Churches interested in participating can visit faithforblacklives.com for more information. To schedule a Walgreens vaccination appointment, individuals are highly encouraged to use the Walgreens app or to visit Walgreens. com/ScheduleVaccine to secure an appointment in advance. When scheduling, individuals will be asked to verify eligibility and, if applicable (for second appointments and/or booster doses), they’ll be asked to provide the manufacturer and date of their last COVID-19 vaccine. For more information, visit Walgreens.com/ covidvaccine.

FOR

DREAM SHEPHERD

AND

NTS DREAM’S LAW

The intersection of South Highland Avenue and Main Street, near the historic Ossining Bank Building, was honorarily named for Dream Ioni Shepherd, who died Aug. 21, 2021 at the age of 16 as she was preparing to enter her senior year at Ossining High School.

Shepherd valiantly fought Sickle Cell Disease from birth until she received a stem cell transplant at the age of 10.

She endured harsh recovery processes for years after the transplant and later would battle cancer.

Her story led to the passage of Dream’s Law in New York State, which ensures medically fragile people receive proper at-home professional medical care once they leave the hospital after transplant surgeries.

“Dream used her medical conditions and life circumstances to fight for better life quality for others is a testament to her spirit. These are gifts to not just the people of Ossining but the people of New York State that will keep on giving,” Village Historian Joyce Sharrock-

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

Cole wrote in a report to the Board of Trustees.

Dream and her mother, Diana Lemon, were also helping shape another state bill to ensure parents of minor children with serious medical conditions were made aware of educational accommodations. The bill, which would be known as the Shepherd Patterson Law, passed the Senate during the 2021 legislative session but didn’t make it to the Assembly floor for a vote.

The Shepherd – Patterson Law will be reintroduced in the 2021 – 2022 legislative session with hopes to be signed into law 2022.

Dream’s mother Diana Lemon states she will continue to advocate for children like Dream that have to deal with the harshness of allopathic treatment for critical illnesses by establishing Dream’s Canna Fund in support of medical marijuana for children. The mission of Dream’s Canna Fund is to be intentional about destigmatizing, educating, and supporting families during their journeys to gain access to medical marijuana for children with critical illnesses.

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COMMUNI T Y CALL ISSUED TO BIDEN FOR INCREASED CONTRACTS BL ACK-OWNED FIRMS The Biden Administration has announced a set of reforms to the federal procurement process to increase the share of small and disadvantaged businesses (SDBs) in the federal contracting base.

The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) has called for a number of these changes in its annual BLACKprint and worked with the Administration to realize new policies that open federal doors to Black business owners.

Among those include a commitment to ensuring 15% of all federal contracts go to SDBs by 2025, releasing Small Business Administration (SBA) disaggregated racial and ethnic data on small business contractors, and making improvements to the category management system. The SBA’s data on federal contracting opportunities for Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) show that, in 2020, Black-owned small businesses only received 1.67% of all federal contracts, whereas white-owned small businesses received 15.64%. This disparity underscores the continued need for additional support for Black-owned small businesses to gain access to federal contracting opportunities to remain competitive in today’s economy.

Ron Busby, President and CEO, USBC, said the following about the initiatives to reform the federal

contracting system: “The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. applauds this long-awaited initiative both at the White House and at the SBA to uncover the demographic breakdown of federal contracts awarded to Black-owned firms and increase equity and access to the federal contracting

accountability and intentionally.

This data and commitment from The Administration allows us to address each of those. We will remain the active voice for small Black contractors to ensure a continued increase in the percentage of contracts they are able to secure, moving

Photo Source: blackenterprise.com

system. For years we've asked 'How can you promise increased spending with Black and minority businesses when you don't know the numbers?' While unsurprised that Black-owned firms were only awarded 1.67% of all federal contracts in FY20, we finally have the data in hand to demand measurable improvements. The USBC has called for transparency,

forward. The USBC recognizes this initiative as a catalyst for lasting changes towards increasing racial equity and parity in the federal contracting sector.”

The USBC is the leading advocate for Black business contracting opportunities, recognizing the immense economic opportunity behind federal procurement

opportunities in the United States. In addition to procurement advocacy at the federal level, USBC further champions and helps to facilitate procurement opportunities through its ByBlack platform. ByBlack is both an extensive national database and certification platform for Black-owned businesses.

ByBlack certification is unique in that it is the first certification specifically designating that a business is Black owned. The directory component allows large corporations and entities across the public and private sectors to source diverse suppliers to fulfill their business needs – from IT infrastructure to marketing to consulting and more.

The USBC hopes that the transparency of the data released today, coupled with the initiative to reform the contracting system, will work to increase accountability in the federal contract system when deciding to support Black and minority-owned businesses nationwide —creating increased economic opportunity, the creation of Black wealth, and financial stability for Black contractors.

The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) is the national voice of Black business and a top advocate for resources and policies that impact Black business owners. To learn more visit: usblackchambers. org.

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Together with small businesses, we’re helping bring hope to the streets.

Small businesses are the heartbeat of every community. They make our neighborhoods vibrant places to live, work, and raise families. Here are just a few ways Wells Fargo is giving hope a hand: • Providing nonprofits with roughly $420 million through our Open for Business Fund to help small businesses • Helping nearly 282,000 small businesses keep 1.7 million people at work through Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding* • Pitching in to help beautify local business districts in cities nationwide • Working together with more than 3 million small businesses to help them get back to thriving Join us in bringing hope to the streets by shopping local. Learn more at wellsfargo.com/impact. * PPP data from Program inception in 2020 through 06/09/2021. © 2021 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. IHA-7112904

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E VENT S

B O U N C E T R U M P E T AWA R D S H O N O R S A N N O U N C E D BOUNCE, the nation’s popular entertainment television network serving African Americans, will present the 30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards -- a night of inspiration, history and crowd-rousing performances celebrating African American achievements and contributions -- on Martin Luther King Day, Jan. 17, at 8 p.m. ET. The 2022 Bounce Trumpet Awards will honor:  COURTNEY B. VANCE (Excellence in Entertainment Award): Vance’s debut in “Hamburger Hill” launched a prolific cinematic career that includes “The Hunt for Red October,” “The Preacher’s Wife” and “The Adventures of Huck Finn.” His work in television includes “The People vs.

OJ Simpson: American Crime Story” for which he won an Emmy, Critics Choice and NAACP Image award.  STAN LATHAN (Living Legend Award): Lathan launched HBO's groundbreaking “Def Comedy Jam,” produced and directed comedy specials featuring Dave Chapelle, Cedric The Entertainer and much more in his storied career.  TYRESE GIBSON (Luminary Award): Gibson is a popular R&B singer, songwriter, actor, author, television producer and model, well known on the screen for his role as Roman Pearce in the “The Fast and Furious” movie franchise.  ZAILA AVANT-GARDE (Rising Star Award): The Louisiana native was the 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee winner and the first Black American to win the academic competition. She also holds three basketballrelated Guinness World Records.

 RAPHAEL WARNOCK and JON OSSOFF (Xernona Clayton Award of Distinction): The Senators from Georgia will be honored with this award, named after the founder of the Trumpet Awards, for succeeding against immense odds, fighting for change and working to improve the lives of all. Warnock has served as senior pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta for

over 15 years (the former pulpit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.). Ossoff was mentored by civil rights legend and former Trumpet Award honoree Congressman John Lewis.  PRINCESS SARAH CULBERSON (Impact Award): This award is given for demonstrating tremendous vision, leadership and innovation that has led to a positive impact on the community.

Culberson and her brother founded the nonprofit Sierra Leone Rising, which distributed aid during the 2014 Ebola outbreak and 2020’s COVID-19 crisis and continues to raise funds for community growth.

The gala event will take place at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Saturday, Jan. 15.

Among the special guests paying tribute to this year’s honorees are Wendell Pierce, Sanaa Lathan, JB Smoove and Tamron Hall.

Musical performers and more presenters will be announced soon.

The 30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards will also feature a tribute to The Warriors of Justice, honoring those institutions and their leaders who have been

on the front lines fighting for social, political, legal, educational and economic equality for people of color. The group includes:  The NAACP, the largest and most preeminent civil rights organization in the nation led by Derrick Johnson, President and CEO.  Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the international human and civil rights organization founded by Jesse Jackson, one of America’s foremost civil rights, religious and political figures.  National Urban League, the nation’s largest historic civil rights and urban advocacy organization run by Marc Morial, President and CEO.  Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the African American

civil rights organization closely associated with its first president, Martin Luther King Jr., led by current President and CEO Charles Steele, Jr. “After a year in which we couldn’t celebrate in person, this year’s show is monumental, honoring the past 30 years of Black excellence and achievement while inspiring future generations,” said Cheryle Harrison, head of Bounce. “Bounce is honored to continue the vision of Ms. Xernona Clayton, the civil rights leader and social justice warrior, who has paved the way and inspired all of us. This event is truly a special moment in Bounce history.”

David Hudson, head of original programming for Scripps Networks, will serve as executive producer of the 30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards, along with Rikki Hughes, CEO of Magic Lemonade Productions.

Hughes is an Emmy and Grammy-winning producer of award shows, comedy specials and independent features.  ABOUT THE TRUMPET AWARDS The Bounce Trumpet Awards were conceived to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of African Americans and those who have succeeded against great odds and inspired success in others.

Founded in 1992 by American Civil Rights leader Xernona Clayton, The Trumpet Awards were acquired by Bounce in 2016.

The list of prestigious honorees includes Muhammad Ali, Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx, Halle Berry, Stevie Wonder, The African American Women of the U.S. Congress, Steve Harvey, Martin Luther King, III, Janelle Monáe and Spike Lee.

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New Opportunities to Save on Health Care Coverage Learn about new financial help to keep you and your family healthy!

If you lost your health insurance during the pandemic or have been unable to pay for coverage in the past, you may now be eligible to save money on your health care. Over 362,000 New Yorkers ages 50-64 may qualify for premium tax credits.

Because of changes in the law, you could now pay as little as $0 for your premiums, or you could save up to thousands of dollars a year.

You can enroll or change your coverage through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace, an online platform that offers insurance plans to individuals, families, and small businesses.

To learn more call 1-888-OUR-AARP or visit aarp.org/acany.

Behind South Florida’s cloudless sky and golden light exists a fragile community that is facing issues of class, race, climate change and gentrification.

Starting on November 20, Oolite Arts kicks off Feels Like 97°, a lens-based exhibition where artists look beyond the city’s dreamlike imagery and into the area’s diversity and socio-economic

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Scan the QR code or visit aarp.org/acany to learn more about the ACA special enrollment period.

divide.

Curated by renowned visual artist Michelle Lisa Polissaint, Feels Like 97° features the work of 10 artists who provide their perspective on South Florida’s way of life and ecosystems by analyzing varied regions of South Florida including the

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

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CULTURE & MEDIA K WA N Z A A C E L E B R AT I O N Kwanzaa is a Swahili word that means "first" and signifies the first fruits of the harvest. From December 26 to January 1, many people of African descent in America-celebrate Kwanzaa.

In Africa, there are many customs that are common among the various ethnic groups found on the continent. One of these is the celebration of the harvest.

At this time of the year, people of the community/village come together to celebrate and give thanks for their good fortune. Working towards a successful harvest is a communal effort, as is the celebration.

Here in America in 1966, Maulana Ron Karenga and the U.S. Organization adopted the basic principles of the harvest celebrations in Africa to create the observance of Kwanzaa. Karenga recognized that on the whole, African Americans do not live in an agricultural setting. Nonetheless, he sought to emphasize that the basic principles found in producing the harvest are vital to building and maintaining strong and wholesome communities.

In this-way, Kwanzaa was developed.

Kwanzaa is that time when we reflect on our use of the basic principles, share and enjoy the fruits of our labor, and recommit ourselves to the collective achievement of a better life for our family, our community, and our people.

There are symbols which have a special meaning to the celebration of Kwanzaa. The mkeka is a straw mat which symbolizes the tradition as the foundation on which all else rests. The

GLOBAL PREMIER

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On Saturday, December 18, 2021 Warner Bros. hosted the world premiere of the highly anticipated return of The Matrix Resurrections that will be both in theaters and HBO Max this Wednesday, December 22.

The Matrix Resurrections reunites Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss as cinematic icons Neo and Trinity.

Return to a world of two realities: one, everyday life; the other, what lies behind it. To find out if his reality is a physical or mental construct, to truly know himself, Mr. Anderson will have to choose to follow the white rabbit once more. And if Thomas…Neo…has learned anything, it’s that choice, while an illusion, is still the only way out of—or into—the Matrix.

Of course, Neo already knows what he has to do. But what he doesn’t yet know is the Matrix is stronger, more secure and more dangerous than ever before. Déjà vu.

The film also stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick, Jonathan Groff, Neil Patrick Harris, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Jada Pinkett Smith (“Angel Has Fallen,” TV’s “Gotham”).

Lana Wachowski directed from a

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kinara is a seven-space candle holder, representing the original stalk from which the African people originated.

The mishumaa saba (seven candles) stand for the Seven Principles. The muhindi are the ears of corn which represent the offspring (children) of the stalk (parents of the house). The zawadi (gifts) represent the fruits of the labor of the parents and the rewards of seeds sown by the children.

During the celebration of Kwanzaa, it is customary to greet friends and family with the Swahili phrase, "Habari gani," meaning, "What is the news?"

To respond, answer with the principle of the day. (Umoja, for example, is the response given on December 26th.)

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FIRST SIGN

Fasting, or abstaining from food, is often done during Kwanzaa, as a means of cleansing of the mind, soul, and spirit.

The candle-lighting ceremony, central to the celebration of Kwanzaa, takes place at a time when all members of the family are present. Children are encouraged to take an active role in all activities.

The ceremony begins with the TAMBIKO (libation), an African form of praise which pays homage to personal and collective ancestors. To begin, the elder of the household pours wine, juice or distilled spirits from the KIKOMBE CHA UMOJA (unity cup) into the earth or an earth-filled vessel. While pouring, the elder makes a statement honoring

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departed family members for the inspiration and values they have left with descendants. Friends are also remembered.

After the TAMBIKO, as a gesture of unity, the elder drinks from the KIKOMBE CHA UMOJA and then passes it for all to share. The elder leads the call, "HARAMBEE" (Let's pull together), and everyone participates in repeating the phrase seven times.

Candle-lighting, central to the ceremony, reinforces the meaning of the principles.

The placement of the mishumaa saba (candles) in the kinara is as follows: Black, for the color of African peoples everywhere, is located in the center.

Three red candles, represents the blood of the ancestors, are placed to the left.

Three green candles that symbolize the earth, life, and the ideas and promise of the future, are placed to the right.

Beginning December 26 with the black mushumaa, a different candle is lit for each day, alternating from left to right.

After the candle-lighting, the principle of the day is discussed.

The evening of December 31 (Day 6) is the KARAMU, a joyous celebration with food, drink, dance, and music for the collective family and friends. It is a time of rejoicing, reassessment and recommitment.

Photo Credit: UW-Green Bay News via flickr

The ZAWADI, handmade or similarly meaningful gifts for children, may be opened at the KARAMU, or on the final day of Kwanzaa, when Imani is observed.

‘ T H E M AT R I X R E S U R R E C T I O N S ’

IN

T H E AT E R S

screenplay by Wachowski & David Mitchell & Aleksander Hemon, based on characters created by The Wachowskis. The film was produced

by James McTeigue, Lana Wachowski and Grant Hill. The executive producers were Garrett Grant, Terry Needham, Michael Salven, Karin Wachowski, Jesse Ehrman and Bruce Berman.

Wachowski’s creative team behind the scenes included directors of photography Daniele Massaccesi and John Toll, production designers Hugh Bateup and Peter Walpole, editor Joseph Jett Sally, costume designer Lindsay Pugh, visual effects supervisor Dan Glass, and composers Johnny Klimek and Tom Tykwer.

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents, In Association with Village Roadshow Pictures, In Association with Venus Castina Productions, The Matrix Resurrections. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures. It will be in theaters nationwide and on HBO Max via the AdFree plan on December 22, 2021; it will be available on HBO Max in 4K UHD, HDR10, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos (English only) on supported devices for 31 days from theatrical release.

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

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HE ALTH

DISEASES THAT CAN CAUSE BAD BREATH

Can what really causes bad breath include diseases? Yes While poor dental hygiene accounts for most cases of halitosis, bad breath can sometimes be a signal for an underlying medical condition. And even when you take “bad breath” out of the equation, breath can still demonstrate health issues: a slew of recent studies have used simple breath tests to screen for medical conditions.

1. DIABETES A fruity breath odor, or an odor similar to acetone (commonly used in nail polish remover) can also signify a serious complication in diabetic patients called ketoacidosis.

When the body doesn’t have enough insulin, it instead uses fatty acids for energy, which produces acidic ketones, byproducts of fat metabolism.

These acids, which include acetone, hydroxybutyrate, and acetoacetate, can accumulate in the blood and lead to a diabetic coma and death.

2. L UNG C A N C ER Doctors found that among the nonsmokers, lung cancer was accurately identified in 128 subjects and misdiagnosed in only five. Among smokers, they correctly identified 114 people as having lung cancer, misdiagnosing five.

Both smokers and non-smokers with bad breath can be at risk.

3. HEART P R O B LEMS Researchers were able to use a simple breath test to identify patients suffering from heart failure, according to a March 2013 paper published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Cleveland Clinic researchers collected breath samples from 41 patients. Twentyfive were officially diagnosed with acute decompensated heart failure.”

Sixteen patients had other cardiovascular conditions but showed no signs of heart failure.

In kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease, the kidneys become so damaged that they are no longer able to filter waste products and toxic chemicals from the blood.

When this happens, the dangerous toxins and waste not discharged from the body accumulate and affect nearly every part of the body.

A fishy breath odor can occur when kidney failure affects the respiratory system and causes breathing problems.

4. KI DNE Y P R O B LEMS The kidneys are responsible for removing toxic chemicals from the blood by creating urine.

OSTEOPOROSIS RISK FACTORS Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) which makes bones fragile and susceptible to fracture. Many Black women believe that osteoporosis is only a concern for white women.

This misperception can be a barrier to prevention and treatment.

It’s true that Black women tend to have higher bone mineral density (BMD) than white women throughout life, however, there are specific issues that Black women face when it comes to developing osteoporosis that are less well known.

These issues include the following:  Under recognized and undertreated. The NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center acknowledges that “Although African American women tend to have higher bone mineral density (BMD) than white women throughout life, they are still at significant risk of developing osteoporosis. The misperception that osteoporosis is only a concern for white women can delay prevention and treatment in African American women who do not believe they are at risk for the disease.”  Hip fractures. As Black women age, their risk for hip fracture doubles approximately every 7 years.  Sickle cell anemia and lupus. Diseases more prevalent in the Black population, such as sickle cell anemia and lupus, are linked to an increased risk of developing osteoporosis.  Insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake. Black women consume 50 percent less calcium than the Recommended Dietary Allowance. Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D throughout life, as part of a healthy dietary pattern, may reduce the risk of osteoporosis, by helping build and maintain good bone health. Vitamin D can be made in the skin when exposed to sunlight. However, skin pigmentation is one of several factors that can determine how much sun exposure you need. Blacks have dark pigment,

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5 . DI GE S T I VE DI S ORDE RS Both digestive conditions can delay or prevent food from processing efficiently from the stomach.

When food doesn’t move through the digestive system, it can start to decay.

Small amounts of undigested food may even regurgitate and cause bad breath.

Dentists may also detect GERD in patients when they notice an inflamed red throat and acid erosion in the teeth.

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BLACK WOMEN

which lessens the body’s ability to produce vitamin D in the skin. Obesity—which is high among Black women, may also play a role in keeping vitamin D levels low. That’s because obesity reduces the body’s ability to use vitamin D.  Lactose intolerance. As many as 75 percent of all Black Americans may experience lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance can hinder optimal calcium intake. People with lactose intolerance may avoid milk and other dairy products

to maintain proper levels of calcium and phosphorous, thereby helping to build and maintain bones. Milk and yogurts that are fortified with vitamin D can be good sources of this nutrient. Other sources of vitamin D include fish such as salmon or tuna, and vitamin D-fortified ready-to-eat breakfast cereals.

even though most are excellent sources of calcium because they have trouble digesting lactose, the primary sugar in milk.

years old are recommended to consume 2.5 servings, and 2 servings per day are recommended for children 2 to 3 years old. In general, a serving of dairy is 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of yogurt, 1.5 ounces of natural cheese, or 2 ounces of processed cheese.

Eating a well-balanced diet that is adequate in calcium and vitamin D throughout life is key to building bones and lowering the risk for osteoporosis.

Calcium and vitamin D can be found in the foods you eat. Dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese, are the primary sources of calcium in American diets.

Dietary patterns that provide 3 servings of dairy products per day can improve bone mass. Vitamin D functions in the body

According to the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, older children, teens, and adults have a recommended dairy intake of 3 servings a day, while children 4 to 8

For those who are lactose intolerant, smaller portions (such as 4 fluid ounces of milk) may be well tolerated. Lactose-free and lower-lactose products are available.

These include lactose-reduced or lactosefree milk, yogurt, and cheese. Yogurt can be a more easily digestible alternative to milk because it contains live and active

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

cultures that help with lactose digestion.

In addition, yogurt on average contains less lactose per serving than milk so you may be able to enjoy yogurt products with fewer associated symptoms. Also, enzyme preparations can be added to milk to lower the lactose content.

The tips listed below will help you make wise dairy choices every day:  Try nonfat or low-fat yogurt as a snack.  If you drink cappuccinos or lattes — ask for them with non-fat (skim) or low-fat milk.  Make fruit-yogurt smoothies in the blender.  Add non-fat or low-fat milk instead of water to oatmeal and hot cereals.  Make a yogurt parfait with whole-grain cereals, fruits and nonfat or low-fat yogurt for breakfast.  Use non-fat or low-fat milk when making condensed cream soups (such as cream of tomato).  Make a dip for fruits or vegetables from non-fat or low-fat yogurt.  Top sliced fruit with flavored non-fat or low-fat yogurt for an easy-to-make dessert.  For dessert, make chocolate or butterscotch pudding with non-fat or lowfat milk.  Top casseroles, soups, stews, or vegetables with shredded reduced-fat or low-fat cheese.  Include milk as a beverage at meals.

Choose non-fat or low-fat milk.  Top a baked potato with nonfat or lowfat yogurt.

Exercising regularly throughout life, with an emphasis on weight-bearing activities such as walking, jogging, dancing, and weight training can also help lower the risk of osteoporosis.

About the writer: Constance BrownRiggs, MSEd, RD, CDE, CDN is a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, national speaker and author of The African American Guide to Living Well with Diabetes. She is a Dannon One Yogurt Every Day Nutrition Advisor.

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TRAVEL H O L I D AY Travelers can step out of their homes and into a land of sugar plum fairies with a stay at these upscale hotels—all decked out for the holiday season. From East Coast to West, we’ve gathered the best warm-weather and winter wonderland spots to enjoy the holidays surrounded by grand Christmas trees, extravagant light displays, gingerbread visions, and more. And we’ve paired them with suggested outings to can’tmiss holiday attractions nearby that make these destinations an all-around

DÉCOR

ice-skating rink (with complimentary skates to borrow), sip hot cocoa next to a cozy fire and admire the magnificent display of holiday lights while watching the snow fall.

Nearby Attractions: Shred Whiteface Mountain’s 86 trails that stretch over 22 miles and three glorious peaks or enjoy a wintertime stroll down Lake Placid’s festively decorated Main Street for big-city shopping in a small mountain town.

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FESTIVITIES

Nearby Attraction: It’s not the holiday season without a performance of The Nutcracker. Pebble Beach guests can catch the timeless classic in nearby Carmel-by-the Sea, where the Monterey Peninsula Ballet Theatre will perform at the Sunset Center.  Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, a Gurney’s Resort & Spa in Paradise Valley, Arizona Lay out all day in the sun then warm up in the evenings by a cozy outdoor fire

Salt River Fields or the World of Illumination in nearby Glendale and Tempe.

 Crabtree’s Kittle House in Chappaqua, New York Just a short drive or train ride from New York City, Westchester County’s historic Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant and Inn transports visitors to the timeless elegance of holidays past in charming Chappaqua. Classic decorations throughout the 1790 property, world-class dining and an

Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid, New York Photo Courtesy of Whiteface Lodge

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, a Gurney’s Resort & Spa, Paradise Valley, Arizona Photo Courtesy of Sanctuary Camelback Mountain

Pebble Beach Resorts, Pebble Beach, California

Crabtree’s Kittle House, Chappaqua, New York

Photo Courtesy of Pebble Beach Resorts in Pebble Beach

win for the season.  Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid, New York The all-suite luxury Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid is the most wonderful place in the Adirondacks to spend the most wonderful time of the year.

Set against a snowy white backdrop and a rustic timber design that evokes the Adirondack great camps of the 19th century, Whiteface Lodge’s extravagant holiday décor brings winter wonderland dreams to life. Holiday guests can take a spin on the resort’s

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Photo Courtesy of Crabtree’s Kittle House

 Pebble Beach Resorts in Pebble Beach, California The crown jewel of California’s Golden Coast, Pebble Beach Resorts is a bucket-list-worthy destination all year long, but especially during the holiday season. Guests will find holiday decorations around every corner, including grand Christmas trees, light displays, gingerbread houses, and more.

The Lodge at Pebble Beach is outlined in lights, giving the already grand appearance an even more impressive glow.

at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain.

Picturesque Christmas trees and garlands strewn with jingle balls and bows are among the holiday touches that surprise and delight guests at every turn. Pro move: Host a dinner party at the resort’s premier restaurant, elements, helmed by celebrity chef Beau Macmillan. His inspired holiday menu, plus the gorgeous dining set up, will be the talk of the table.

Nearby Attractions: For holiday light shows and grand drive-thru experiences, guests can check out Scottsdale’s Holiday Lights at

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award-winning wine cellar all make for an extra-merry escape. Warm up with an evening glass of wine by the fireside and enjoy complimentary breakfast in the dining room each morning.

Nearby Attractions: Guests should check out the Grand Holiday Illumination at Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, where more than 100,000 lights and holiday music transform the Walled Garden for the holiday season, or head to Kensico Dam Plaza for Westchester’s Winter Wonderland, a dazzling, 1.2-mile drivethrough holiday light display.

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END NO TE S I N DE PE N DE N T A RT I ST S C O M PE T E T O W I N PRO M OT I O N A L CA M PA I G N In celebration of the highly anticipated film The Matrix Resurrections, UnitedMasters the “record label in your pocket” for independent artists - has joined forces with Warner Bros. Pictures to offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for artists to win $15,000 and have their original music included in the film’s promotional campaign.

Today, UnitedMasters has revealed rising hip-hop artist and Charlotte,

NC native Quantrelle as the winner of the contest. Quantrelle’s song, “Back to Life,” written specially for the open call, will receive the $15,000 cash prize and be featured in The Matrix Resurrections promotional campaign. Quantrelle’s track was selected as the lead song out of thousands of entries.

Quantrelle shared, "When I first started working on this song, the intention was to create a sound that embodied the energy of the movie.

Once that feeling was solidified, I got inspired to write lyrics that really speak to the film and are words any Matrix fan would understand.

I was really inspired by the scene of Neo dodging bullets, which I watched during the process, and that illustrious moment felt so in sync with what I was going for, that’s when I knew we had something special."

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Five runners-up were also selected to receive $1,000 each to put towards their music careers. Each track was judged by UnitedMasters’ professional sync team and based on encompassing The Matrix themes, overall creativity, production quality, lyrical content, dynamics, mood, and emotion. The Matrix Resurrections is set to release in U.S. theaters and on HBO Max on December 22nd.

founder and music industry veteran Steve Stoute, UnitedMasters is a music technology company that gives creators access to premium music distribution services, a suite of tools to help them directly connect with fans, and opportunities for unique partnerships with some of the world’s biggest brands all while allowing them to maintain full ownership over their master recording rights.

TV’s “Gotham”).

Lana Wachowski directed from a screenplay by Wachowski & David Mitchell & Aleksander Hemon, based on characters created by The Wachowskis. The film was produced by James McTeigue, Lana Wachowski and Grant Hill. The executive producers were Garrett Grant, Terry Needham, Michael Salven, Karin Wachowski, Jesse Ehrman and Bruce Berman.

with The Matrix Resurrections aligns with their mission of ensuring the next generation of creators take their futures into their own hands.

UnitedMasters is dedicated to helping artists level the playing field by offering opportunities and exclusive resources often reserved for major label acts. The platform gives independent artists access to premium music distribution services, a suite of tools to help directly connect with their fans, and opportunities to connect with brands that want access to premium music produced and owned by independent artists. UnitedMasters artists maintain ownership over their master recording rights while being introduced to millions of new fans worldwide through direct brand partnerships.

The Matrix Resurrections reunites Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss as cinematic icons Neo and Trinity. Return to a world of two realities: one, everyday life; the other, what lies behind it. To find out if his reality is a physical or mental construct, to truly know himself, Mr. Anderson will have to choose to follow the white rabbit once more.

And if Thomas…Neo…has learned anything, it’s that choice, while an illusion, is still the only way out of—or into—the Matrix. Of course, Neo already knows what he has to do. But what he doesn’t yet know is the Matrix is stronger, more secure and more dangerous than ever before. Déjà vu.

Wachowski’s creative team behind the scenes included directors of photography Daniele Massaccesi and John Toll, production designers Hugh Bateup and Peter Walpole, editor Joseph Jett Sally, costume designer Lindsay Pugh, visual effects supervisor Dan Glass, and composers Johnny Klimek and Tom Tykwer.

UnitedMasters’ engagement

 About UnitedMasters Launched in 2017 by Translation

 About The Matrix Resurrections

The film also stars Yahya AbdulMateen II, Jessica Henwick, Jonathan Groff, Neil Patrick Harris, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Jada Pinkett Smith (“Angel Has Fallen,”

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents, In Association with Village Roadshow Pictures, In Association with Venus Castina Productions, The Matrix Resurrections. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures. It will be in theaters nationwide and on HBO Max via the Ad-Free plan on December 22, 2021; it will be available on HBO Max in 4K UHD, HDR10, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos (English only) on supported devices for 31 days from theatrical release.

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WHEREVER YOU’RE HEADED, ROLL IN THE VIP SEATS All New 2022 Equinox RS

The all-new 2022 Equinox RS adds flavor to life in the fast lane. Designed with a stylish trim, striking black interior and sporty red accents, the Equinox RS is always the hottest seat in the house.

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December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

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