New York Trend NYC: November 17 – 23, 2022

newyorktrendnyc.com

NAACP Participates in 2022 UNITED NATIONS

MAYOR DAVID DINKINS, REP. CHARLES RANGEL, HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE (COP27)

Recently, America's preeminent civil rights organization, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), joins world leaders at the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) to partake in thoughtful dialogue on the importance of environmental and climate justice. Action on environmental justice and climate change is more important than ever. The NAACP will highlight and further emphasize our stance on environmental and climate justice at COP27

The Black Stars News 2015 Annual Awards Dinner will honor Mayor David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central Park Five survivors of gross injustice on December 18 from 6:00pm –10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West 116th Street

"We have known for years that Black people across the diaspora are more likely to experience environmental racism in their communities. Additionally, industries such as fossil fuel, coal, and other industries create toxic footprints in

discussions throughout COP27, which include hosting a panel in the Blue Zone on Water Day, November 14, 2022, in the Climate Justice Pavilion. These conversations are to ensure international leaders have insight on the disproportional

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

Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their company Front Row Production, brought “Cat on

units and branches across the nation, along with well over 2M activists. Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights

The NAACP will highlight and further emphasize our stance on environmental and climate justice at COP27.

“Each honoree chosen for recognition has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in her or his respective profession or endeavor and in some significant measure has contributed towards creating a more just society in this country,” says Black Star News founder and publisher Milton Allimadi. “Obviously much work needs to be done here and around the world.”

The NAACP has distributed resources in local communities, engaged with community members to discuss environmental injustices, and worked with community partners to ensure continued work on the ground throughout the US. The Association has testified in congressional hearings regarding infrastructure disinvestment in Black communities and filed a now open federal discrimination complaint with the EPA which probed an investigation into the state of Mississippi over the Jackson water crisis.

"We have known for years that Black people across the diaspora are more likely to experience environmental racism in their communities.”

 Justice Abre' Conner NAACP Director of Environmental Climate

The gala starts at 6:00pm with a cocktail hour to be followed by the dinner and awards ceremonies. There will be musical entertainment by opera singer Cassandra Douglas and from harmonica phenomenon William Galison. David Dinkins is honored for Lifetime Achievement — he was New York City’s first African American mayor and also welcomed Nelson Mandela to the city after his release in 1990. Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored for Lifetime Achievement, has served in Congress since 1971. He is a recipient of The Bronze medal for helping save soldiers behind enemy line during the Korean War Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic member of the US House of Representatives from New York whose 9th district covers much of central Brooklyn. Before entering Congress in 2007, she

Black communities that exacerbates long-term health issues for Black communities," said NAACP Director of Environmental Climate Justice Abre' Conner "We must continue to center Black communities and communities of color in global conversations and negotiations regarding any solutions and investments about environmental injustices."

of properties under development or management — he was one of the pioneering developerswho helped turn around and revitalize the once-blighted Anacostia neighborhood in Washington, D.C. A champion of African-American economic empowerment Peebles’ is contemplating a possible run for NYC mayor in 2017.

environmental issues faced in America and how the Association can continue its efforts to secure environmental justice.

been a talk show host at WBLS and WLIB radio in New York City. He also has a Friday night radio talk show on WBAI

miscarriage of justice in New York’s history; having been railroaded and unjustly convicted for a crime they did not commit and for which they served long prison sentences ranging from seven years to 13 years before being exonerated when the actual rapist confessed. They are: Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin Kharey Wise.

The Black Star News, which focuses on investigative journalism, has been featured as a result of some if CNN, The New York Daily News, The New York and Brill’s

in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.

Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder of World of Money, is a champion of financial literacy for youth-- she teaches knowledge about handling money, budgeting and planning.

The NAACP will partake in

Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil rights lawyer, is a champion of protecting voting rights of ethnic minority groups — the emerging

Founded in 1909 in response to the ongoing violence against Black people around the country, the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) is the largest and most pre-eminent civil rights organization in the nation. We have over 2,200

Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of the nation’s leading educators. He’s president of Medgar Evers College of The City University of New

The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF –was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but separated in 1957 to become a completely separate entity. It is recognized as the nation's first civil and human rights law organization and shares our commitment to equal rights.

Past Black Star News honorees have included: Gil Noble (Like It Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William Pollard (Medgar Evers College), Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna Fountain (Columbia University), Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National Action Network), and many others.

a Hot Tin Roof” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” with a multi-ethnic cast to Broadway. In 2016 they bring “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner to Broadway.

Central

Photo Source: NAACP.org

NATIONAL

LIAACC PRESIDENT HONORED AT A LIST AWARDS GALA

-- By WA PUBLIC RELATIONS COMPANY

Long Island, New York – Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.’s President Phil Andrews honored at The A LIST Awards Gala and Ultimate Networking Event. On Thursday, Nov. 3, the 2022 A LIST of honorees were feted at Schneps Media’s annual event where extraordinary men are recognized for their accomplishments and their commitment to the NY community.

The event took place at The Heritage Club at Bethpage, and welcomed over 300 people to celebrate and network at one of Schneps. The honorees selected are men across all industries and nonprofits from Manhattan to Montauk who have made and continue to make a positive impact.

In addition to the honorees the event was the ultimate networking event, and a joyful celebration, the event will raise money for a local cause. One hundred percent of all raffle proceeds will go to support Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro

ABOUT : Phil Andrews, A LIST Honoree – In 1995 and 1998, Mr. Andrews’ excellence in his field garnered the Small Business Person of the Year award by two branches of the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce (Roosevelt and West Indian Chambers, respectively).

He has also received a number of proclamations and citations from notable political officials including former Nassau County Executive Thomas S. Gullotta, former Town of Hempstead Supervisor Richard Guardino and Assemblywoman Earlene Hooper Hill, 18th Assembly District of Long Island NY. In 2012, Phil Andrews was honored by the

American Association of Greater New York with the “Good Neighbor" Award

Mr. Andrews was also inducted as one of the Kings of Queens as an honoree in 2014. As President of LIAACC on March 24, 2016 the chamber was awarded and Excellence in Communication Award by Long Island Business News

The chamber has appeared on WABC’s Here and Now on two separate occasions and has be featured on NBC’s Positively Black

Korean

The A LIST Honoree – PHIL ANDREWS, PRESIDENT OF THE LONG ISLAND AFRICAN AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC., FOUNDING PRESIDENT, 100 BLACK MEN OF EASTERN NEW YORK, INC. INTEREST GROUP, AND FOUNDING PRESIDENT OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN SMALL BUSINESS FOUNDATION, INC

Left to Right : LUIS VAZQUEZ, PRESIDENT, LIHCC, MATT COHEN, PRESIDENT, LONG ISLAND ASSOCIATION, AND PHIL ANDREWS, PRESIDENT, LONG ISLAND AFRICAN AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC., FOUNDING PRESIDENT, AFRICAN AMERICAN SMALL BUSINESS FOUNDATION, AND FOUNDING PRESIDENT, 100 BLACK MEN OF EASTERN NEW YORK, INC. INTEREST GROUP AT LONG ISLAND ASSOCIATION JOINT QUARTERLY MEETING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE LIAACC AND LIHCC.

THE A LIST HONOREES FROM MANHATTAN TO MONTAUK

APOLLO THEATER APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM LAUNCHED

“

The Apollo continues the nonprofit organization’s longstanding commitment to creating opportunities to advance Black narratives and nurture future generations of the creative workforce with the launch of The Apollo Apprenticeship, a new initiative that provides college students with pre-professional experience in the arts and entertainment industries. Through this new initiative and its ongoing educational and community programs, workshops, onsite visits, and more, the Apollo continues to serve as a cultural anchor in Harlem, New York City, and the world, expanding its role as a catalyst for both social and artistic engagement.

The new Apollo Apprenticeship program will offer hands-on experiences in the areas of project creation and management, technical production and direction, and event management. Apprentices work over an 18-month period and receive a $600 biweekly stipend. For more information and to apply, visit https://www.apollotheater.org/ education/apollo-theater-academy/ apprenticeship/.

The Apollo’s dedicated education team has continued to serve tens of thousands of students and educators in the five boroughs each year, working to inspire and cultivate the next generation of creatives on the stage and behind the scenes,”

community as we also get back into classrooms and work with young students and teens at such a critical time, not only to supplement their education and inform them about the myriad types of artistic careers, but to also foster a love of the arts

both in schools, on the historic Apollo stage, and online, serving thousands of educators and students,” said Shirley Taylor, the Apollo’s Senior Director of Education “We continue to expand our education offerings in order to support students and educators while integrating the Apollo’s history and the arts into curriculum across the country. Our new Apollo Apprenticeship allows us to engage with college-aged adults and provide them with a unique, hands-on experience to expand and deepen their experiences with the performing arts.”

In addition to its events for students, Apollo Education offers its learning workshops and resource materials to educators across the country, providing teachers with the opportunity to fuse together the rich intersection between the Apollo, Harlem, the arts and entertainment, and classroom subject areas.

said Apollo President and CEO Jonelle Procope “I’m thrilled that we are launching the Apollo Apprenticeship program, which will enable us to expand our work with college-aged students in our

and promote its ongoing vitality and resonance in their lives.”

“The Apollo is able to reach students, educators, and families through our education programs

Through this multifaceted work, the Apollo provides opportunities for students to learn firsthand about the many opportunities available to them to work in the arts.

WOMEN LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM PLANNED AT INTREPID MUSEUM

-- By ANN BROWN

The Intrepid Museum announces its inaugural Unstoppable Women Leadership Symposium, taking place on Tuesday, November 15. Held in the Intrepid Museum’s Space Shuttle Pavilion, the event is

“Unstoppable Women” featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Dana Canedy, Designer and Author of I Am Invincible Norma Kamali, former NASA astronaut and Principal at AstroPlanetview, LLC, Dr. Sandra H. “Sandy” Magnus, and former NASA

extraordinary career of service. A cocktail reception will take place at 6:00pm. The panel will begin at 7:00pm. “We are so thrilled to introduce the Unstoppable Women Leadership Symposium to spotlight these amazing, trailblazing leaders,” said Susan Marenoff-

the Intrepid Museum does. The Museum’s programs and exhibitions amplify the real experiences of those on the frontlines of history and the stories behind the engineering marvels in its collection that were shaped by and, in turn, changed the course of world history. The Museum utilizes these events and innovations in history as a springboard to meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges. As a Center for History & Innovation, the Intrepid Museum continues to help shape the community of tomorrow. The Museum’s programs for learners of all ages and abilities promote innovation, strive to advance equity and inclusion, and demonstrably have a positive impact on the educational landscape.

designed to engage and inspire the next generation of leaders in STEM and entrepreneurship. Support from the event will fund the Museum’s education initiatives through its newly-named Center for History and Innovation.

The event will include a panel of

astronaut and Director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center Dr. Ellen Ochoa Commanding Officer for USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Capt. Amy Bauernschmidt, will be presented with the Intrepid Unstoppable Woman Leadership Award in recognition of her pioneering leadership and

Zausner, President

Intrepid Museum “I am truly in awe of these ‘unstoppable women,’ and I hope attendees will take away that nothing can stop them from pursuing their dreams.”

Center for History & Innovation Education is at the heart of all that

Experiences for K-12 audiences support and expand school-based learning and student understanding of history, science, engineering and technology through an integrated, multi-modal approach. This integrated approach to teaching/ interpreting history and innovation allows learners to think about solutions to 21st century challenges. Programs for adults and families are crafted to spark lifelong curiosity and wonder.

of the

Image courtesy of the Apollo

LAWSUIT AGAINST UNFAIR HOUSING FILED

NEW YORK ATTORNEY GENERAL LETITIA JAMES today sued a landlord, Jason Fane, his company Ithaca Renting Company (Ithaca Renting), and his related entities for denying housing to low-income tenants. An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that Mr. Fane and his real estate agents refused to accept Section 8 vouchers at his properties, in violation of New York’s housing laws against source of income discrimination. The lawsuit alleges that agents at Ithaca Renting repeatedly told renters they do not accept government assistance vouchers. Through her lawsuit, Attorney General James is seeking to require Mr. Fane to stop denying housing to New Yorkers with Section 8 vouchers, pay civil penalties, and set aside five percent of his residential housing units exclusively for Section 8 vouchers.

“All New Yorkers deserve access to fair and decent housing, regardless of their station in life,” said Attorney General James “Denying housing to New Yorkers based on their source of income is not only illegal, but it’s also worsening the housing crisis. We are taking action to protect vulnerable tenants, keep New Yorkers in their homes, and enforce the law.”

“Housing is a basic human right. There is clear data demonstrating that access to housing stabilizes the entire community, increases public safety, and supports the economy,” said State Assemblymember Anna Kelles “Even landlords, especially small landlords need regulations and protections and each one is hurt by the bad actors in a community. Housing should not be exclusively a commodity market. It must be balanced with human rights and dignity. I applaud Attorney General James for investigating and holding potential bad actors accountable.”

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program provides housing assistance to the lowest income households in New York to rent or purchase decent, safe housing in the private housing market. The program also provides assistance to senior citizens and disabled persons on fixed incomes, displaced families, and homeless individuals with disabilities.

New York’s executive law clearly states that it is unlawful and discriminatory to deny housing to individuals based on their source of income.

The OAG opened an investigation into Ithaca Renting and Mr. Fane after receiving complaints from individuals who were denied housing for having a Section 8 voucher. The lawsuit alleges that an individual who was already living in an apartment managed by Mr. Fane was denied housing by Mr. Fane’s agent because of her Section 8 voucher.

The lawsuit also alleges a housing advocate was assisting a homeless man, who was granted a Section 8 voucher, to find an apartment in downtown Ithaca. The housing advocate contacted two agents who worked at different properties owned by Mr. Fane and both agents told the advocate they do not accept Section 8 vouchers. The lawsuit alleges this led to the homeless man remaining homeless for at least another year.

Mr. Fane and his related entities own 18 properties with more than 500 residential units. During OAG’s investigation, several of Mr. Fane’s agents repeatedly told OAG that they “choose not to participate in the Section 8 voucher program.” These employees, some of whom worked there for years, would not answer where or who they learned this policy from or who created it. Through her lawsuit, Attorney General James is seeking to require Mr. Fane to stop his illegal practice of denying housing to New Yorkers with Section 8 vouchers, pay $300,000 in civil penalties, reform employee policies and trainings for all agents, and set aside five percent of his residential housing units exclusively for Section 8 vouchers.

This matter is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Stephanie Milks of the Binghamton Regional Office, which is led by Assistant Attorney General in Charge Michael Danaher. The Binghamton Regional Office is a part of the Division of Regional Affairs, which is led by Deputy Attorney General Jill Faber and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

the editor. Photographs and manuscripts will not be returned.

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 25

Photo Credit: Mike Delima

“ DIDDY ” CREATES LARGEST BLACK - OWNED CANNABIS COMPANY

-- By ANN BROWN

Cresco Labs, a vertically integrated multistate operator and the No. 1 U.S. wholesaler of branded cannabis, and Columbia Care, announced the signing of definitive agreements to divest certain New York, Illinois, and Massachusetts assets (the “Assets”) to an entity owned and controlled by Sean “Diddy” Combs (the “Transaction”).

The divestiture of the Assets is required for Cresco to close its previously announced acquisition of Columbia Care (the “Columbia Care Acquisition”).

The Transaction is expected to close concurrently with the closing of the Columbia Care Acquisition. Total consideration for the Transaction is an amount up to US$185,000,000 (the “Purchase Price”).

The Transaction is Combs’ first investment in cannabis, the fastest growing industry in the U.S., and upon closing, will create the country’s first minority-owned and operated, vertically integrated multi-state operator. This industry-changing transaction is rooted in Cresco’s vision to develop the most responsible, respectable and robust industry possible, and advances Combs’ mission to open new doors in emerging industries for Black entrepreneurs and other diverse founders who are underrepresented and underserved. Throughout his legendary career, Combs has solidified himself as one of the most successful business leaders and cultural icons. Establishing an unrivaled track record for breaking new ground and redefining industries, he has built a portfolio of leading global brands across music, entertainment, spirits, fashion, and media. Combs has also maintained a deep commitment to philanthropy, with a focus on empowerment through education and entrepreneurship, and community activism.

These vertically integrated New York, Illinois, and Massachusetts assets provide Combs the ability to grow and manufacture cannabis products; wholesale, and distribute those branded products to licensed dispensaries in major metropolitan areas like New York City, Boston, and Chicago; and operate retail stores in all three states.

“Today’s announcement is bigger than the Transaction – and it couldn’t come at a time of greater significance and momentum. We’ve seen executive power exercised to address matters of cannabis injustice, we’re seeing bi-partisan support for elements of federal reform, and we’re seeing some of the largest and most influential states in the country launch cannabis programs prioritizing social responsibility – this announcement adds to that momentum,” said Charles Bachtell, Cresco Labs’ CEO “For Cresco, the transaction is a major step towards closing the Columbia Care acquisition and our leadership position in one of the largest consumer products categories of the future. For an industry in need of greater diversity

of leadership and perspective, the substantial presence of a minorityowned operator in some of the most influential markets in the country being led by one of the most prolific and impactful entrepreneurs of our time is momentous…and incredibly exciting. We’re thrilled to welcome Sean and his team to the industry.”

“My mission has always been to create opportunities for Black entrepreneurs in industries where we’ve traditionally been denied access, and this acquisition provides the immediate scale and impact needed to create a more equitable future in cannabis,” said Sean “Diddy” Combs, Chairman and CEO Combs Enterprises “Owning the entire process — from growing and

A portion of the Purchase Price would be payable upon closing of the Transaction, subject to adjustments contained in the definitive agreements, and will be comprised of approximately US$110,000,000 in cash and approximately US$45,000,000 of seller notes. The remaining portion of the Purchase Price would be payable postclosing upon achievement of certain short-term, objective, and market-based milestones. The following combination of Cresco (“CL”) and Columbia Care (“CC”) assets will be divested in the Transaction:

 New York: Brooklyn (CC), Manhattan (CC), New Hartford (CL), and Rochester (CC) retail assets and Rochester (CC) production asset.

close the Columbia Care Acquisition as soon as possible which is now expected to be around the end of the first quarter of 2023.

Tarik Brooks, who serves on Cresco’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) and as the President of Combs Enterprises, recused himself from Cresco’s review and approval of the Transaction. In accordance with the Company’s policies, the Transaction was reviewed and approved by an independent committee of the Board as well as all disinterested Board members. The Board received certain financial advisory services from A.G.P/Alliance Global Partners in connection with its consideration of the Transaction. Columbia Care’s Board of Directors also approved the Transaction.

manufacturing to marketing, retail, and wholesale distribution — is a historic win for the culture that will allow us to empower diverse leaders throughout the ecosystem and be bold advocates for inclusion.”

Columbia Care CEO and Co-founder, Nicholas Vita, added, “These assets offer the Combs’ team significant market presence, enabling them to make the most impact on the industry as a whole. It’s been clear to us that Sean has the right team to carry on the strong legacy of these Columbia Care and Cresco Labs facilities, and we can’t wait to see how he helps shape the cannabis industry going forward through his entrepreneurial leadership and innovation.”



TERMS OF TRANSACTION

The buyer entities will purchase certain Cresco and Columbia Care assets in New York, Illinois, and Massachusetts.

Massachusetts: Greenfield (CC), Worcester (CL), and Leicester (CL) retail assets and Leicester (CL) production asset.



 Illinois: Chicago – Jefferson Park (CC) and Villa Park (CC) retail assets and Aurora (CC) production asset.

The closing of the Transaction is subject to certain closing conditions in the definitive agreements, including the receipt of all required regulatory approvals; clearance under the HartScott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act; and the closing of the Columbia Care Acquisition.

Cresco and Columbia Care are in the process of divesting other assets to meet regulatory requirements ahead of closing the Columbia Care Acquisition. Additional announcements regarding those divestitures will be forthcoming. The Company is working through regulatory reviews and approvals to

 FINANCIAL AND LEGAL ADVISORS

Stoic Advisory Inc. and Solidum Capital Advisors are acting as financial advisor to Cresco Labs Paul Hastings LLP is acting as US legal advisor to Cresco Labs.

ATB Capital Markets and Gramercy Capital Group, LLC (through INTE Securities LLC, member FINRA/ SIPC), are acting as financial advisor to Columbia Care Foley Hoag LLP is acting as US legal advisor to Columbia Care

Evercore and Empowerment IP Capital are acting as financial advisor to Combs. Goodwin Proctor is acting as US legal advisor to Combs

Media Kit: https://stashbox.crescolabs. com/s/f43hn3348pq8gjkfgcvn9mq

The proposed acquisition by Sean “Diddy” Combs will create the largest Black owned business in cannabis.

Photo Credit: Revolt Media

SCHOMBURG CENTER HOLDS OPEN HOUSE

On Saturday, November 12th, The Schomburg Center will host its annual Open House. An open invitation to learn more about the library, tour its exhibitions and explore the collection, programs will run from 12-6 pm. Patrons can learn how to conduct research using Schomburg Center’s collections, meet the librarians, archivists, and curators who manage the divisions, and enjoy programs featuring poet Marilyn Nelson, author of Augusta Savage: The Shape of a Sculptor’s Life, a youth scavenger hunt through our comic book exhibition Boundless, and more for all ages during this all-day open house.

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture of The New York Public Library is generally recognized as the world’s leading research library devoted exclusively to documenting the history and cultural development of peoples of African descent worldwide. Since its founding in 1925, the 97-year-old Center has amassed vast collections of over 11 million items.

The library’s current exhibitions are Boundless: 10 Years of Black Comic Book Futures and Been Seen Boundless amasses the collection materials and legacies of the Center’s Black Comic Book Festival, a yearly celebration of

creators of color and the community built around the Black history of superheroes, cosplay, comic books, sequential art, and more. Been Seen champions the work of

The Schomburg Center Open House invites patrons to explore the collection of the library – which spans five distinct divisions: Research and Reference;

patrons that they can explore centuries of Black history. A great touchstone for first-timers, the Schomburg Center’s annual Open House allows visitors to

Harlemite photographer Austin Hansen and frames his work with contemporary photographers capturing the everyday and extraordinary in Black life.

Manuscripts, Archives, and Rare Books; Photographs and Prints; Moving Image and Recorded Sound; and Art and Artifacts. This open house teaches

learn about the Center. A schedule will be forthcoming with programs for all ages. Registration is encouraged on Eventbrite.

INTERVIEW : STACEY SPIKES , FOUNDER , URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL

By TONYA THOMAS

Founded in 1997, the Urbanworld Film Festival (October 26 – 30, 2022) is “a five-day film festival that includes a full slate of domestic and international narrative feature-length films, documentaries, shorts, animation, experimental media, music videos, and a young creators showcase. Urbanworld’s mission is to have urgent relevance as the storytellers and ideas presented across their festival platforms lift up the best of storytelling, technology, and culture.”

“Urbanworld has always been a leader in the connection between storytelling, technology, and culture by providing an unmatched platform for world-class artists, films, and new media solutions —whether you’re in a creative industry or the business world,” said Sharese Bullock-Bailey, Festival Director and Chief Innovation Officer, on the company’s website.

Stacy Spikes, the Founder and Chairman of Urbanworld — a film festival where “Hollywood studios, networks, and streamers, as well as established and emerging content creators, have consistently chosen to premiere box office hits and award-winning projects” — is also CEO/Cofounder of MoviePass, Founder of PreShow Interactive, and a former executive at Miramax and October Films. On day two of the festival, this accomplished businessman, who is the epitome of passion, talent, and strategic vision, took a few minutes to sit down and chat with Jola Films Founder and our New York Trend’s Film and Theater Contributing Editor, Tonya Thomas

TONYA : Thank you so much for carving out the time to meet with me. You’ve been at this a long time; what excites you most about this year’s Festival?

Spikes said every year, experiencing the Urbanworld Film Festival is like returning home. When he goes home, he knows he’s going to get some good nourishment.  With a smile, he shares, “I know I’m going

to get some good macaroni and cheese, cornbread, black-eyed peas, and collard greens. Every visit is different, but the meals never disappoint, and it feels so good. Every year at Urbanworld, I know I’m going to have some good cinematic soul food with family in communal settings, and we’re all gonna have discussions with filmmakers who are serving up cinematic nourishment. [Every

vision. I really love this idea of convening people, industry experts, and people sharing insights and content creation.  Where did the idea to host the innovation summit come from?

Spikes said they watched as other conferences like South by Southwest began to expand and felt that it was Urbanworld’s responsibility, as a culturally targeted

Urbanworld must be at the vanguard of technology. The innovation part of the festival is over 10 years old.  It first started with HBO. I remember one of the first summits where HBO was talking about introducing a live chatting feature during Game of Thrones. Back then, technology was moving fast. Now it’s moving faster,” he says.

He continues, “If we want our people to advance, we can’t just consume/use technology. We make up 12-15% of the population [in the US] but disproportionately make up a much higher percentage of the moviegoing audience. There’s nobody of color heading up tech companies like Twitter or Facebook, but the ad dollars that they’re getting off of our community… billions! We should have representation. We need to make sure we’re at the table where decisions are made. [To do that,] we need to shove our way to the table. We’re outsiders and have no voice until we go grab that seat.”

TONYA : We’ve been outsiders for a long time. Urbanworld is the largest film festival dedicated to supporting and nurturing women and BIPOC filmmakers. Do you see more of us sitting at the proverbial table in the future?

year after the festival closes] I feel enriched by the stories I’ve had the honor to see, and it’s both beautiful but also sad that most [of the films] won’t be seen by the [broader] public. Participants know they are experiencing something special.”

TONYA : Obviously, you are a man of great

festival, to make sure they’re keeping pace with the conversation that’s happening around storytelling and technology. “People are starting to figure out how to tell stories in the metaverse. They’re telling stories in virtual reality that are 360 degrees. If we want to stay competitive,

Spikes: “Yes. Our publicist, Ava DuVernay, has become one of the most famous filmmakers to break out of Urbanworld Here’s a little back story. One day Ava, her mother, and I were sitting at the screening of Dreamgirls, and Ava says, ‘I really want to make a film.’ I said, ‘Go make one. You have a festival to premiere it at.’ She made a short film, she premiered it. She made a feature of that film, and she premiered that at Sundance. As a result, Ava won the Best Director. Ava’s life changed. I remember when Kerry Washington was running around Urbanworld. I remember when Rosario Dawson had tape on her glasses, running around Urbanworld. There are so many stories – There’s Tim Story, Malcolm Lee, --

There’s nothing quite like local. That’s why your local AARP creates experiences with your community in mind. We’re neighbors, connecting you to free events, learning opportunities, and resources right in your backyard. Wherever you live, we’re here to help your money, health, and happiness live as long as you do.

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We’re here for you. Here in your neighborhood.

THE ARTS

WINTER BENEFIT AT MANHATTAN THEATER CLUB

Manhattan Theatre Club will present its Winter Benefit on Monday, January 23 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom (141 W. 54th Street). The festive evening will feature a cocktail reception, an elegant dinner, and an exclusive, one-night-only performance by Tony Award-winning actress and singer Kelli O’Hara, accompanied by Dan Lipton

The Winter Benefit begins with cocktails at 7:00pm, followed by dinner and the performance. All proceeds from this annual event will support MTC in developing and presenting new work with the most exciting artists in a dynamic, supportive environment, as well as producing a diverse repertoire of innovative, entertaining, and thoughtprovoking plays and musicals by American and international playwrights each season. In addition, this event will support MTC’s renowned education program, which uses the power of live theatre and hands-on playwriting experiences to awaken minds, ignite imaginations, open hearts, and change lives.

Individual tickets for MTC’s Winter Benefit, including cocktails, dinner, and the show, are available for $3,000,

$2,500, and $2,000. Tables of 10 are also available for $30,000, $25,000, and $20,000.

For more information on the Winter Benefit or to purchase tickets, please contact Jonquil Schaller, Manager of Special Events, at (212) 399-3000 x4147 / jschaller@mtc-nyc.org or visit www.manhattantheatreclub.com/ events/benefit/.

KELLI O’HARA, star of stage and screen, has established herself as one of Broadway’s greatest leading ladies. Her portrayal of Anna Leonowens in The King and I garnered her the 2015 Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical, along with Grammy, Drama League, Outer Critics, and Olivier Nominations.  She reprised the role while making her West End debut, and performed a limited engagement at Tokyo’s Orb Theatre Kelli received an Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Katie Bonner in Topic’s hit web series, “The Accidental Wolf,” and can currently be seen as Aurora Fane on HBO’s critically acclaimed series, “The Gilded Age.” Other film and television credits include: “13 Reasons Why,” All the Bright Places, Peter

Pan Live!, “Sex & The City 2,” Martin Scorsese’s The Key to Reserva, Showtime’s “Master of Sex,” “The Good Fight,” “Blue Bloods,” “N3mbers,” and the animated series “Car Talk.” Other Broadway credits include Kiss Me Kate (Tony, Drama League, OCC nominations), The Bridges of Madison County (Tony, Drama Desk, Drama League, OCC nominations), Nice Work if You Can Get It (Tony, Drama Desk, Drama League, OCC nominations), South Pacific (Tony, Drama Desk, OCC nominations), The Pajama Game (Tony, Drama Desk, OCC nominations), The Light in the Piazza (Tony, Drama Desk nominations), Sweet Smell of Success, Follies, Dracula and Jekyll & Hyde. She was awarded the prestigious

Drama League’s Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre Award in 2019. In 2015, she made her Metropolitan Opera debut in Lehar’s The Merry Widow opposite Renee Fleming and returned as Despina in Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutte. Her concerts have gained international acclaim, spanning from Carnegie Hall to Tokyo. She is a frequent performer on PBS’s live telecasts, The Kennedy Center Honors, and performs often alongside The New York Philharmonic. Along with her two Grammy nominations, her solo albums, Always and Wonder in the World, are available on Ghostlight Records. Up next, Kelli will return to The Metropolitan Opera to debut Kevin Puts’s, The Hours

INDUSTRY LEADERS GATHER FOR PROJECT CELEBRATION

The Theatre Leadership Project (TTLP), founded during the pandemic to create lasting change in American theatre by installing BIPOC leadership in the industry, held its first in-person affair on Monday at Brooklyn Chop House in Times Square. The reception saw Hollywood luminaries like Erika Alexander and Lee Daniels come together with the group’s Fellows; Founders; Advisory Council members, including Aalithya Stevens and Olivier Sultan; funders Darren Johnston, Dessie Moynihan and Robert E. Wankel; and Warren Adams and Orin Wolf from TTLP partners Black Theatre Coalition (BTC) and The Prince Fellowship Director respectively.

Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF) President & CEO Nicole Sexton was on hand and spoke about the role of EIF, which serves as fiscal sponsor and advisor to TTLP Broadway producers and TTLP Founders Barbara Broccoli, Alecia Parker, Patrick Daly and Travis LeMont Ballenger were also in attendance. Established by Broccoli, Ballenger, Lia Vollack, Parker, Daly and Lia Vollack, TLP manages and supports three-year fellowships in creative producing, general management and company management for BIPOC professionals looking to establish careers in American theatre. Since it was established in 2020, TTLP has raised more than $1 million in support of its fellows, placing six in Broadway general management firms for training in general management and company management.

TTLP has two Creative Producing Fellows, Cynthia L. Dorsey and Lawryn LaCroix TTLP also supports BTC Fellows Brandon Brooks, Carrli Cooper, Taylor Courtney, Jordan Flemming, Brandi Knox, Devon Miller and Michael Leon Thomas Isabella Schiavon has been hired as a producing assistant at Orin Wolf

Production, through a connection made by TTLP. Fellows supported by TTLP have worked on numerous Broadway shows, including To Kill a Mockingbird, Kinky Boots, Macbeth and Some Like Hot

“The work of building a more welcoming, inclusive and fair industry doesn’t happen alone. We are in need of community to sustain the change we seek to make, so we are fortunate to be doing this work hand in hand with partners who are dedicated to long term change,” said TTLP Program Manager Leah Harris “We are proud of the work our fellows are accomplishing and are eager to continue following and supporting their success.” TTLP works to equip BIPOC arts leaders with the practical skills, knowledge and professional networks within the commercial management sector of theatre by administering three-year fellowships in general management, company management and creative producing.

The program helps to eliminate barriers to participation; provide sustained funding and support over three years; and works towards permanent job placement of its fellows. The nonprofit is currently raising money for and will soon add a stage management program. For more information on TTLP, visit https://www. theatreleadershipproject.org/.

Founded in 2020, The Theatre Leadership Project works to counteract the systematic exclusion of Black professionals in the theatre industry by creating pathways to employment at the highest levels. TTLP partners with Black Theatre Coalition on General Management and Columbia University’s Prince Fellowship on Creative Producing to fund and manage fellowship programs working to advance Black commercial theatre leaders. The Theatre Leadership Project is a fund of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF), a Charity

Navigator 4 Star Charity that meets all 20 Better Business Bureau charity

standards and carries the GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency

TTLP founder, Lee Daniels (Photo provided)

THE ARTS

‘ DUST OF EGYPT ’ AT NY THEATER FESTIVAL

Rhonda “Passion” Hansome will direct the drama “DUST OF EGYPT” on TUESDAY, Nov. 15, 2022 @ 6:15 PM, FRIDAY Nov. 18, 2022 @ 4:00 PM and SATURDAY, Nov. 19, 2022 @ 9:00 PM @ Teatro Latea on the Lower East Side as part of the New York Theater Festival 2022 Winterfest Karin Abarbanel’s 60-minute play dramatizes the fight of Sojourner Truth, the Black abolitionist and women’s rights advocate, to save her enslaved son. Tickets start at $25.00. Teatro Latea (107 Suffolk Street) can be reached by taking the “F” train to Delancey / Essex Street. For more information call (212)

with community activist / word stylist Joan Reinmuth – created the “observational comedy think tank” podcast “Lo & Behold” made several online appearances and later presented her solo show “Lie Baby Lie” as part of the City Artists Corps at the Gene Frankel Theatre in October 2021.

For additional information on Rhonda’s future projects and appearances, go to: www. rhondahansome.com or connect with her on Facebook @Rhonda Hansome Comedy, Twitter @RhondaHansome or Instagram @rhondafull

INTERVIEW : STACEY SPIKES , FOUNDER , URBANWORLD FILM FESTIVAL

and again, there’s Ava  Lee Daniels was running around doing make-up, and now he’s a director. This all happened here at Urbanworld.”

 Stacy Spikes

Stacy said that in the same way that the Apollo Theatre created that stage, where the best names in Black music launched their careers, Urbanworld was and continues to be a launching pad for Black filmmakers. And just like the stars of yesterday who were committed to returning home to the Apollo to give back and help up-and-coming talent, every year, Urbanworld welcomes the return of successful filmmakers who attribute their success to Urbanworld and want to give back and support new and talented filmmakers.

Stacy states, “People like Jamie Foxx, Tom Cruise, and Jada Pinkett Smith don’t need to come here. They come here because there’s authenticity here. There’s something – that has nothing to do with me – in the spirit of this festival that has such depth and meaning culturally that we’ve become Cinematic Cultural Ambassadors.”

To further clarify the extent of the impact, Stacy stated, “What Alvin Alley was to dance, and what Apollo was to music, Urbanworld is to Cinema. But it’s important that you know that we aren’t the ones who have been doing the [hard] work. All we do is rent some venues and give brilliant artists a platform to showcase their work. The hardest part is saying no because we only have so much space.”

TONYA : Do you know the LeBron James commercial where he’s talking to his younger self. I love that commercial. What would you say to your younger self? What would you say to a young Stacy Spikes about your journey?

Stacy said he would tell them about his story, that he grew up in a black community with parents who went to HBCUs. “I was in this world where I saw blackness function in a certain way. [Even] Sidney Poitier’s documentary talks about growing up on an island where everyone is black – and the

sheriff and the mayor are black. And then he arrives in Florida, and people say, “boy get in your place; you can’t walk in the front door like that; you have to go in the back.”

Stacy spoke of a rude awakening for a young Sidney Poitier and how he had a similar experience.

“I spent [so much] time in a world with accomplished Black folks, and then with my work in the music industry from Motown to Sony, it wasn’t until I got to Miramax that I realized that someone like me was rare.

In this film space, there were a few actors sprinkled on the edge of the industry, but once you got behind that door, there was hardly anybody there. [At that time, in the ’90s] there were like five of us who worked behind the scenes. It’s crazy when you can count the [number of Black] executives, industry-wide, on one hand. Suddenly, as a very young man, I was the Spike Lee or the Denzel of distribution, and [I realized that] I had a responsibility. You know you’ve made it when your grandma calls you and says, ‘Babe, I got my Jet, got my Ebony, got my Black Enterprise. I saw you in it.’ And everyone was so proud that this Brotha had made it.”

He continued, "At that time, Miramax was THE studio. ‘Pulp Fiction’ had happened. The studio was winning Oscars every year – just crushin’ it.  Everyone’s like, wow, there’s a brotha in there? Send him the movie, he’ll help us. And then I realized not only do I have this responsibility, but I can’t help. I can’t do anything. I felt this sense of powerlessness, and I couldn’t sleep at night because I wanted to help. I asked myself, what can I do? I can’t finance their pictures because I’m just an employee. I can make suggestions, but I’m not in the production department or in acquisitions – I’m just in marketing. Then it occurred to me – maybe I can help market them…get them exposure. I went to the Sundance Film Festival Director (at the time) and said I’m willing to volunteer my nights and weekends and help curate some urban films. He said we get 3,000 films a year and see it all. We have the best programmers in the world. If it’s good, we’re going to show it. [Ultimately] his answer was no thanks! I remember standing on the Santa Monica Promenade pissed because this guy was determining [whether talented storytellers would get the shot they

deserved]. I had been to Sundance tons of times [and our stories were not being told].” He adds, “People think that I woke up one day and said we need a black film festival. But actually, Urbanworld was born out of resentment. I love the saying, ‘Nothing happens to you; it all happens to you.’ I have found that the no’s are far more important to the yesses. The Nos are where birth happens because ‘no’ means you need to find another way. You need to invent; you need to create. No is where the work begins. I went to Keith and Lynn, who were running Vibe Magazine at the time, and told them what happened. After much discussion, it was decided that we would conduct a test during the Vibe Music Seminar. I was told to find a film and that we’d show it during the music seminar, and if it worked, we’d move forward. I got ‘Set it Off.’”

TONYA : So “Set It Off” set it off? “We rented a theater, and it was packed. You couldn’t even step on the floor. People were in the aisles – two by two on every step, all the way up on the side. The Fire Marshal walked in and said, ‘This is really illegal – keep it down’ and walked out. He wasn’t about to tell all those Black people, ‘you gotta go.’ At the end, when that music started and Queen Latifah started dropping that Impala ’64, and lit up that cigarette, the audience went crazy! I remember Naughty by Nature was there. Everybody was there. I’ll never forget that screening. Keith and Lynn from Vibe were like, [wow]! It was one of the best movies I’ve ever seen with an audience. Seeing ‘Set it Off’ in my house, by myself, wouldn’t have worked. Seeing the movie with an audience was essential.”

Besides the work related to Urbanworld, Spikes is relaunching MoviePass

He shares, “One question I’ve been hearing recently is, ‘Why are you relaunching MoviePass, cinema is almost dead?’" Stacy said that people often say that because there are so many ways to get content these days. “Do we say people aren’t going to go to soccer matches or sporting events because they can watch games on TV? Does anyone say, because of digital music, no one is going to go to concerts anymore? No. Anytime new technology emerges, take the VHS, the DVD…streaming, or Netflix, people would say that cinema is done.

(cont'd from p.7)

But, every year, more people go to movies than sporting events, music concerts, and amusement parks combined. We’re human, we’re communal animals, we like being together.”

“We broke Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day all time attendance records this summer. Moviemaking is the highest art form. It encompasses writing and story, the soundtrack and/or the score. And, then there’s the acting. I love cinema.”

TONYA : Was your vision that the festival would blow up like this?

Spikes: “My vision was not to lose money or go broke and to try to help some people out. At the first festival, I knew we were [on to something] when closing night of the first year, we were showing ‘Soul Food,’ and I remember Chris Rock came sneaking in, and Whitney Houston just rolled up and walked in the door and asked, ‘Can I get a ticket?’ Even Babyface and Tracey Edmonds, who produced the film, showed up with the film in canisters that they brought with them on the plane. They literally had the film in their seats with them. ‘Soul Food’ was a sweeping success. You know what happened? Everybody asked, ‘What did ‘Soul Food‘ do?’ The answer was they played in the Urbanworld Film Festival. Check this out, ‘Soul Food’ and ‘Hoodlum’ were shown opening and closing nights.”

He continues, “Then what happened? ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back,’ ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love,’ ‘Waiting to Exhale,’ ‘Original Kings of Comedy,’ ‘The Best Man,’ and ‘Collateral’ happened …[it just exploded] because everyone was like, what did ‘Soul Food’ do? How did that little movie about this family break that big? By word of mouth. We did a lot of grassroots [marketing] through Vibe Magazine Vibe gave us five ads – and it was one per month, and the final month, they gave us inside covers. We didn’t have the money for it, but Vibe believed in [us]. That launched the festival, and people came from all over the country.”

To learn more about Stacy Spikes’ journey, readers can check out his upcoming new book, “Black Founder: The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider,” which will be available in January 2023.

Rhonda is an award-winning off-Broadway director with over

“WHAT ALVIN ALLEY WAS TO DANCE, AND WHAT APOLLO WAS TO MUSIC, URBANWORLD IS TO CINEMA.”

thirty-five production credits at venues located throughout the metropolitan area. While under quarantine Hansome – along

UPWARD BOUND MATH AND SCIENCE PROGRAM

The Florida A&M University (FAMU) TRIO Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) Program received an additional $1.7 million in federal funding over the next five years to continue serving high school students from underserved backgrounds in Leon and Madison counties.

The UBMS Program’s goal is to increase students’ participation and success rates in mathematics and science pre-college courses, thereby increasing the pool of STEM (science technology, engineering, and mathematics) majors in college and hence the number of STEM trained individuals for the workforce.

The UBMS program aims to help students meet and exceed both the state and national educational standards, thus helping students to be college ready upon high school graduation.

“We are very happy to have received renewal of the Upward Bound Math and Science program supporting students in the surrounding counties,” said William E. Hudson, Jr., Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs. “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math are programs of strategic emphasis for the university. Making an investment in high school students through this program provides a pipeline of college ready students. Mrs. Nance continues to provide excellent leadership of this program.”

The UBMS Program provides tutoring, workshops, standardized test prep, educational field trips, career exploration, college application

and financial aid assistance to its participants in an effort to help them find success early in high school and beyond. The program even hosts a six-week residential program on

programs for more than 20 years. “I have had the opportunity to witness students achieve what they thought was impossible.” Nance is also the director of the TRIO Student Support

first institutions of higher education to receive the federal funding at the inception of the TRIO programs in 1965 through President Lyndon B. Johnson’s war on poverty authorized under the Higher Education Act

Upward Bound Math and Science, meant to be a sister program to Upward Bound with a specific focus on STEM, came about in the 1990s and has been a staple program at FAMU since then. FAMU UBMS began as a regional program that served students from surrounding states, but has since focused its efforts on Leon and Madison County students like Kamya Ervin, who currently serves as the 2022-23 Miss FAMU DRS “The FAMU TRIO UBMS program has helped me in becoming more social, pushing me harder, learning more discipline and just being a better person all around with the experiences and opportunities given to me while participating in the program,” Ervin said.

FAMU’s campus during the summer when UBMS students take several educational courses, and participate in a plethora of activities that promote their mental, physical, social and emotional health throughout the camp.

Program Director Zaychina Nance wrote a UBMS grant request that was funded to serve 70 high school participants who attend FAMU DRS, Godby, Rickards and Madison County High Schools.

“As a first-generation college student, I know first-hand the importance of having people to help guide you on your educational journey,” said Nance, who has been with the FAMU TRIO

Services (SSS) program. The SSS Program is funded to serve 250 currently enrolled FAMU students in their pursuit and completion of their undergraduate degree.

TRIO Programs are federal outreach programs designed to serve and assist low-wealth individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to post-baccalaureate degrees.

The traditional Upward Bound program was the first of several programs to be established under the TRIO umbrella, which started out as just three programs. FAMU was one of the

Over the last 30 years, thousands of high-school students have benefited from the information, exposure, and assistance that the UBMS program provides. Over 50 percent of UBMS program participants go on to complete degrees at post-secondary institutions within six years of high school graduation.

FAMU serves more than 2,500 students through its federal TRIO Programs. The programs consist of TRIO Upward Bound Math and Science, TRIO Student Support Services, TRIO Talent Search and the TRIO Educational Opportunity Center

HBCU OFFERS DEGREE PROGRAM FOR INMATES

Incarcerated citizens at Maryland’s Jessup Correctional Institution can now earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and an optional Entrepreneurship Certificate through a prison education program offered by Bowie State University through the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Bowie State is the first HBCU in the state to offer a degree program for individuals incarcerated at a state correctional facility.

Bowie State’s prison education program builds on its designation as a Second Chance Pell Grant awardee, which allows incarcerated individuals the opportunity to receive Pell Grants to participate in college and university educational programs. Incarcerated students who apply and are accepted into the university will have all fees and tuition covered by the Pell Grants.

“The university’s prison education program is embedded in our Restorative Justice and Practices Institute which enables us the opportunity to inject the principles of restoration, reconciliation, harms and

needs, and empowerment into the curriculum,” said Dr. Charles Adams, Chair of the Department of Criminal Justice at Bowie State “We want to inspire each individual in the program to strive for personal and educational freedom while they embrace the journey of becoming whole again.”

A bachelor’s degree in sociology requires 120 credits that focuses on a liberal arts education. All courses will be offered at the Jessup Correctional Institute. The sociology undergraduate degree prepares students for leadership and responsibility in

government, the private sector and equips them for success in graduate school and life.

To participate in the program, incarcerated citizens must have graduated from high school or successfully completed their GED.  The first cohort of seven students began courses this week and range in age from the early twenties to over 50. They will take four courses each semester while pursuing their degrees in sociology with the goal of securing jobs or continuing their education after they are released from prison.

“HBCUs must be involved in educating incarcerated citizens because approximately 70% of Maryland’s inmates are people of color,” said Dr. Adams “Offering a prison education program rooted in restorative justice/ practices is innovative and could prove to be beneficial to incarcerated citizens as well as the community they will ultimately return to when they are released from Jessup.”

The University of Baltimore is the only other institution in the University

System of Maryland to offer a fouryear degree program to incarcerated citizens. According to the Maryland Alliance for Justice Reform, “too often prisoners complete a period of incarceration without addressing their educational needs. Education behind bars reduces recidivism.

Maryland could be using education more extensively and effectively to reduce recidivism, improve public safety, to improve the lives of formerly incarcerated persons and their family members, and to build the human capital of Maryland residents.”

Bowie State University (BSU) is an important higher education access portal for qualified persons from diverse academic and socioeconomic backgrounds, seeking a high-quality and affordable public comprehensive university. The university places special emphasis on the science, technology, cybersecurity, teacher education, business and nursing disciplines within the context of a liberal arts education. For more information about BSU, visit bowiestate.edu

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

NOTES

HBO ORIGINAL COMEDY DEBUTS

The HBO Original comedy special LIL REL HOWERY: I SAID IT. Y’ALL THINKING IT., written and performed by actor and comedian Lil Rel Howery, will debut SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 at 10:00 p.m. ET/ PT on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max



Logline : Returning to his hometown of Chicago for his second HBO special, actor and comedian Lil Rel Howery brings his signature storytelling style and spot-on impressions to the Chicago Theater. In his first hourlong stand-up since HBO’s “Live in Crenshaw” in 2019, Howery gets real on topics such as fame, fatherhood, and therapy – and

performs sharp satirical takes on prominent figures in pop culture and beyond. An unparalleled showcase of Howery’s talents, LIL REL HOWERY: I SAID IT. Y’ALL THINKING IT. puts the spotlight on a star at the top of his game as he delivers a uniquely hilarious set focused on everyday issues important to the artist – and his audience.



Credits : LIL REL HOWERY: I SAID IT. Y’ALL THINKING IT. is written, performed, and executive produced by Lil Rel Howery; co-executive produced by Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, Jeannáe Rouzan-Clay, and Avi Gilbert; and directed by Ali LeRoi.

NYC BEST WINTER HOLIDAY SPOTS

Ahead of a winter that will see colder than usual weather across most of the country, according to the latest forecast from the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the personalfinance website WalletHub today released its 2022’s Best Winter Holiday Destinations report, as well as accompanying videos and expert commentary, to supplement its money-saving selection of the Best Travel Credit Cards

Focusing on cost and convenience rather than scenic beauty, WalletHub compared nearly 70 of the largest U.S. metro areas grouped by warm and cold weather. Each destination was analyzed based on 37 key metrics, primarily the expense and hassle of traveling to each location but also on other indicators, such as weather forecasts, safety and variety of activities.

Here’s a quick glimpse at some of the report’s most interesting findings:

winter destination costs $521.74, lasts 5 hours and 17 minutes and has 0.57 connections.

 Among cold destinations, Omaha, Nebraska, has the lowest price for a three-star hotel room, $55, which is 2.4 times lower than Worcester, Massachusetts, the city with the highest at $133.

 Among warm destinations, Houston has the lowest price for a three-star hotel room, $40, which is 5.2 times lower than Honolulu, the city with the highest at $208.

 Among cold destinations, Chicago has the most restaurants (per square root of population), 6.157755, which is 6.3 times more than in Bridgeport, Connecticut, the city with the fewest at 0.984751.

 Among warm destinations, Orlando has the most restaurants (per square root of population), 7.281483, which is 29.0 times more than in Deltona, Florida, the city with the fewest at 0.250773.

To view the full report and your metro area’s rank, please visit:  https://wallethub.com/edu/bestwinter-holiday-destinations/7930