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

NYS TO HOST MINORITY The Black Stars News 2015 Annual D E Dinner V E will LO PMayor MENT WEEK Awards honor I N A U G U R A L

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David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara and was named the Metro N.Y. District Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina of the U.S. SBA 2019 Small Business brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” BlackPRWire recognized New York Trend founder, owner and publisher, Dr. Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen Champion for 14 counties in Downstate, and “A Streetcar Named Desire” Teresa Taylor Williams during Black Business Month. Dr. Taylor-Williams Byrd, Alia Jones, and the CentralN.Y. To become a member of the with a multi-ethnic cast to chamber today visit: www.liaacc.org 8/24/23, 2:13 PM founded New York Trend in 1989 and hasIMG_5733.jpg been at the helm of this award Park Five survivors of gross injustice Broadway. In 2016 they bring winning, historically black, woman-owned publication for more than 3 on December 18 from 6:00pm – LI African American Chamber of “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner decades. New York Trend remains one of the few woman-owned historically Commerce, Inc., a participating 10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. organization in the Community Navigator black news publications.

116th Street.

Pilot Program, is funded in part through Honorees, the so-called Central “Each honoree chosen for United States Black Chamber’s Park 5, are collectively and recognition has demonstrated grant with the U.S. Small Business individually heroes. They are exceptional leadership and vision inAdministration. survivors of one of the ugliest David Dinkins Charles Rangel her or his respective profession or miscarriage of justice in New York’s We are requesting all participants to endeavor and in some significant register in advance for the 1st day to get history; having been railroaded majority.

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President Certificate on the occasion of dinner and awards ceremonies.

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Content magazine. have a African strong, well-organized operation, American-owned real his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo African American mayor and alsoofficials said at last year’s conference.

Minority Enterprise Development estate firm with $3.5 billion worth Past Black Star News honorees at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s Week (MED Week)Nelson Offers aMandela venue welcomed to theIn Newsday last year Charlene of properties under development for minority-owned to access been a talk show host at WBLS and have included: Gil Noble (Like It city after hisfirms release in 1990.

Thompson, President of Thompson or management — he was one information, tools, and resources to Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad WLIB radio in New York City. He Economic Development LLC, Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored of the pioneeringServices, developerswho grow their businesses both domestically O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, also has a Friday night radio talk a government contractor in Baldwin for Lifetimethrough Achievement, turn around and revitalize and internationally networkinghas stated helped Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), show on WBAI. “We have a federal and a state in Congress since 1971. He is events,served workshops, and issue forums. the once-blighted Anacostia Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel government that has in mind to help Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder a recipient of TheMED Bronze medal for The events that compose Week neighborhood in Washington, small businesses, particularly those of D.C. Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William of World of Money, is a champion are meant to raise amongenemyus whoAhave helping saveawareness soldiers behind champion of African-American often been underserved, Pollard (Medgar Evers College), minority business and the of financial literacy for youth-- she line during owners, the Korean War. economic empowerment is underrepresented.”

She continued,Peebles’ “But Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba larger business community and support contemplating a possible we have to make sure that they arerun for NYC teaches knowledge about handling Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna these businesses in their efforts to grow ready. There are corporate partners that money, budgeting and planning. mayor in 2017. member of the US House of Fountain (Columbia University), to scale. can help you get your house in order.”

Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of Representatives from New Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil Thompson is an expert in government The Long Island African American the nation’s leading educators.

He’s York whose 9th district covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local lawyer, champion housingrights programs andisaalaw professorof Chamber of Commerce, Inc. was much of central Brooklyn.

Before 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic at Hofstra University. founded in 2010 and is N.Y.'s State’s entering Congress in 2007, she Action Network), and many others. of The City University of New minority groups — the emerging Largest African American Chamber,

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

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NEWS D E N N Y ’ S E D U C AT I O N S C H O L A R S H I P W I N N E R A N N O U N C E D Education™ Scholarship.

Thornton, a resident of Fort Washington, MD, received the top award out of a field of 2,444 applications, along with a scholarship for $5,000. Denny’s, a longtime supporter of education at Historically Black Colleges & Universities, partnered with the Tom Joyner Foundation for this year’s award.

“There were thousands of phenomenal submissions, but Jayla’s essay truly rose to the top,” said April Kelly Drummond, Vice President, diversity, equity and inclusion.

“Jayla’s creativity, intelligence, and commitment to her community jumped off the page, and we’re thrilled to provide her with this award.”

Jayla Thornton, a junior, political science major at North Carolina A&T State

University, has been selected as this year’s national winner of Denny’s Hungry for

Thornton’s winning essay proposed a major initiative, which envisions Denny’s working to combat “food deserts” in her community.

A food desert is a geographic area where affordable, nutritious and fresh food is hard to obtain, particularly for those without access to an automobile. As Thornton points out, despite being the third-largest city within the state, Greensboro, NC has 17 of the 24 food deserts in Guilford County. Thornton, who plans to attend law school, recommends

Denny’s host an event in a centrally located neighborhood in Greensboro where residents can access fresh food from a farmer’s market, mental health counseling from local organizations and receive information from other local social services and social justice organizations.

"This award means so much to me because it feels like a wonderful validation of my passion and hard work," said Thornton.

"Denny's has been such a powerful presence in my community and I am looking forward to working with them for many years to come."

Denny’s Hungry for Education™ (HFE) is a scholarship program that recognizes and rewards students who show initiative and creativity in helping Denny’s bring communities together. Partnering with 11 leading, nonprofit, minority advocacy organizations, Denny’s awarded over $354,000 in scholarships this year to deserving elementary, high school, and college students. Since its launch in 2011, the brand has awarded more than $2 million in scholarships.

N a t i o n a l U r b a n L e a g u e s P A R T N E R S W I T H N AT I O N A L H E A LT H E Q U I T Y The National Urban League, a historic civil rights and urban advocacy organization, and Takeda (TSE:4502/NYSE:TAK) together announce a new health equity initiative that seeks to address the obstacles that disproportionately hinder access to better health care for historically marginalized populations in the U.S. This partnership will ultimately help to raise awareness, knowledge and action across the National Urban League’s network of local affiliates and partners on social determinants of health (SDOH) and the barriers to accessing timely diagnosis and treatment in communities. Takeda’s support through this initiative will enable the creation of a Health Equity Continuum of Service Structure across the National Urban League’s network, including the development and implementation of local health equity plans to address identified health inequities and barriers to access in communities. Additionally, Takeda will support the National Urban League in developing webinars and workshops for continued health equity education and professional development among its affiliates. Long-term efforts under this partnership will engage key stakeholders to shape local and national policy, institutional commitments and structural investments in communities to achieve health equity holistically.

"The COVID-19 pandemic shone a harsh light on the historic and structural inequities in our health care system and the urgent need for reform," said Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League. "The National Urban League is proud to work with forward-thinking partners like Takeda, the first organization to fund our health equity infrastructure."

“Working alongside trusted leaders in the community and community-based organizations is vital to ensure we’re prioritizing the complex needs of historically marginalized people and can help to implement thoughtful solutions,” said Dr. Chris Reddick, head of U.S. Health Equity at Takeda. “That’s why we’ve partnered with

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the National Urban League, an organization that looks to the root of inequities and prioritizes community-led solutions to deliver care that reflects local needs.”

Health inequities result in higher rates of disease and poorer health outcomes for a wide range of health conditions among people in racial and ethnic groups when compared to their white counterparts. For example, the average life expectancy among Black or African American people in the U.S. is four years lower than that of white people. Data also shows that LGBTQ+ people were more likely than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts to report negative experiences while receiving health care. In order to solve for these deep-rooted health disparities, Takeda is committed to supporting community-serving organizations that are

closest to the nuanced challenges and needs of a population, to ultimately create lasting change.

The National Urban League is a historic civil rights and organization dedicated to economic empowerment in order to elevate the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities. The National Urban League spearheads the efforts of its 90 local affiliates through the development of programs, public policy research and advocacy, providing direct services that impact and improve the lives of more than three million people annually nationwide. Visit www.nul.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @NatUrbanLeague.

Takeda is focused on creating better health for people and a brighter future for

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the world. We aim to discover and deliver life-transforming treatments in our core therapeutic and business areas, including gastrointestinal and inflammation, rare diseases, plasma-derived therapies, oncology, neuroscience and vaccines.

Together with our partners, we aim to improve the patient experience and advance a new frontier of treatment options through our dynamic and diverse pipeline.

As a leading values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, we are guided by our commitment to patients, our people and the planet. Our employees in approximately 80 countries and regions are driven by our purpose and are grounded in the values that have defined us for more than two centuries. For more information, visit www.takeda.com.

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NEWS NFL AND ‘BlackMenVote’ ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP The National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) and voter engagement organization Black Men Vote (BMV), announced an historic partnership focused on voter registration and engagement. The new partnership will leverage the historical involvement of NFL players in increasing voter turnout

and facilitating a fair discussion of issues that impact communities across America.

Representing more than 2,000 players – the majority of whom are men of color -- the NFLPA has been a leading advocate for issues of social justice, human rights, and equality. Black Men Vote is a 501(c)3 non-profit whose mission is to inform, educate and encourage all Black men (particularly age 18-35) to vote in local, state and federal elections.

The NFLPA/BMV partnership comes at a critical time in our nation and will help facilitate greater participation in our

electoral system by often marginalized communities. Key components will include, but are not limited to: strategic relationships and/or partnerships with former and current players, a public awareness campaign highlighting the importance of voting, collaborative voter registration drives, advocacy and policy

reform, data analysis and research, and strategic fundraising partnerships. All of these elements are designed to increase voter registration and engagement among Black men specifically and the American public in general.

“Black Men Vote’s mission to empower men of color and to educate them on issues that impact our communities seamlessly aligns with what we stand for as a union as well as with the players we represent,” NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith said. “Voting is one

of the greatest weapons we have in our ongoing march for justice. Together, I’m excited to see what we will accomplish as we work to make sure that every voice is heard at the polls.”

"The NFLPA is one of the leading and most impactful organizations in our country, not only serving their players, but also large segments of the American public," said Larry Williams Jr., Executive Director of Black Men Vote. "They have been an outspoken voice in support of voting and voter registration, as well as other critical issues such as social justice, mental health awareness, and community action. We are proud to count them as a critical partner in our efforts to register and engage Black men across America in the voting process, and are excited that they have chosen to use their platform in support of this important goal."

Under this new partnership, BMV and the NFLPA will establish and nurture strategic relationships with former and current players who are interested in supporting voting rights and civic engagement. The initiative will involve collaborating with athletes to amplify messaging, promote voter registration, and encourage civic participation among their fans and followers to advance the cause of voting rights and participation, especially among Black men.

About the NFL Players Association:

The National Football League Players Association is the union for professional football players in the National Football League. Established in 1956, the NFLPA has a long history of assuring proper recognition and representation of players’ interests. The NFLPA has shown that it will do whatever is necessary to assure that the rights of players are protected— including ceasing to be a union, if necessary, as it did in 1989. In 1993, the NFLPA again was officially recognized as the union representing the players and negotiated a landmark Collective Bargaining Agreement with the NFL. The current CBA will govern the sport through the 2030 NFL season. Learn more at www.nflpa.com.

The mission of Black Men Vote is to educate, inform and inspire all black men (particularly aged 18-35) to vote at all levels of government - local, state, and federal. BMV is a 501c3 incorporated in Washington DC. Since 2020, Black Men Vote has been focused on charitable and educational work within the Black community. In particular, Black Men Vote has worked to provide nonpartisan voter education to Black men in America resulting in voter registration and voter activation. Learn more at www. blackmenvote.org.

Source: National Football League Players Association

F L O R I D A G O V. B A N S C R I T I C A L R A C E T H E O R Y

By M YLES H OLLI NG SWORTH President, NAACP New York State Youth & College Division The contributions Black people and people of African descent have made to this country are paramount and omnipresent. To consider yourself educated on American history is to consider yourself knowledgeable on Black history; the goal The College Board aims for, but is sorely falling short of. Let's be clear–the organization is falling short because of its seemingly large appetite to conform to Florida's anti-democratic and anti-Black policies, in the name of ensuring "the course best reflects this dynamic discipline." Yikes.

To survive and participate fully in democracy, education must serve as a trusted backbone for society — this is not what we have now. In respecting students' learning environment while also pursuing excellence in academia, The College Board should follow the lead of this country's top organizations like NAACP and reject the narrow interpretation of Florida law that contradicts principles of academic freedom and autonomy in determining what to teach in classrooms.

The attacks on AP African American studies and CRT stem from deeply rooted racist ties to education. Chattel slavery stripped enslaved Africans of their native language and refused to allow our ancestors the chance to learn

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English or use most curriculum available; Jim Crow laws prevented Black children access to a better education afforded to white children, in the name of "separate but equal," among other things; Brown v. Board of Ed. gathered community in Topeka, KS under the NAACP and soonto-be Justice Thurgood Marshall '33, to use the power of the law to advocate for

communal support towards a joint liberation.

the simple right to education for Black people; the list goes on. The main idea is that this fight for education justice is not new, but Florida officials have taken a new approach to their blatantly prejudiced policy.

To dive into African American studies, organizations like the National Black Justice Coalition led by Dr. David Johns teaches us that we're also diving into a very queer, very LGBTQIA+ history, where we often find our leaders, movements, and organizations to identify in association. Black feminism in the context of African American studies teaches both the acknowledgment and realization that Black women are facing a duality of oppression, being both Black and a woman concurrently in America ("The most disrespected person in America, is the Black woman" - Malcolm X). The Black Lives Matter movement unequivocally changed the world and the lens through which people view politics and political moments like this

Removing lessons on intersectionality, Black queer studies, Black feminism, the Black Lives Matter Movement, and reparations are going to be a costly move by officials in Florida because of how critical all these topics are to everyone– regardless of race–in today's society.

Intersectionality teaches us about the many connected streams of injustices across social, political, and economic barriers and underscores solidarity and what we, as activists, call a verb; working

“Removing lessons on intersectionality, Black queer studies, Black feminism, the Black Lives Matter Movement, and reparations are going to be a costly move by officials in Florida........”

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one. African American studies would do a disservice to students (anywhere) by not including the work done after the very tragic murders of, our now ancestors, Trayvon Martin, George Floyd, etc., which includes the attempt of restitution, through reparations. The omission of the aforementioned points in the curricula of AP African studies serves as a dereliction of the mission of The College Board and only strengthens the argument of a political influence by Ron DeSantis and the Florida officials who obtusely follow.

The reason we stand in coalition to reject these bans and this extremist agenda is because of the irreparable effects it will have on young people, specifically young, Black, and LGBTIA+ identifying persons. Gov. DeSantis banning CRT and AP African American studies truly shows the capricious nature of right-wing extremists; there is no organization, just so-called leaders seizing the opportunity to deny a generation of people their right to a free and fair education.

It's more than infuriating — it's enraging for Gen Z and young people to continuously see our livelihoods and elements of it, like education, be shorthanded and misrepresented by extremist and out-of-touch leaders with (almost laughable) presidential agendas.

It's critical now for Gen Z and people in academia to know that this isn't a small injustice. This wages a war on how we think critically, engage with each other and lead using our education.

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NE WS UCC NAMES FIRST WOMAN LEADER IN HISTORIC VOTE The General Synod of the United Church of Christ made history Monday, July 3, when it elected the Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson as the first woman, and the first Black woman, to lead the denomination as General Minister and President.

Rev. Thompson is the third woman nominated for the post, after the Revs.

Yvonne Delk (in 1989) and Barbara Brown Zikmund (in 1999), but the first to be elected. A Jamaican immigrant, Thompson is the third person of African descent to serve as leader of the denomination.

“Today, United Church of Christ, we created a first together,” she said after the vote. “It won’t be the last first.”

She thanked Delk and Brown Zikmund, stating that they “kicked in the doors,” paving the way for her election.

“As I stand here before you as your newly and duly elected General Minister and President, I stand here as a Jamaican immigrant woman, a mother and a grandmother, a sister and a friend to many,” Thompson said. “… The enormity of this moment will be with me for many years to come.”

Her election took place at the UCC’s 34th General Synod in Indianapolis, with 626 delegates voting for her election, 43 against and seven abstaining. She will start her new role Aug. 1, taking over from the Rev. John Dorhauer, who has served for the past eight years.

In a prayer after the vote, surrounded by her family, she recalled Synod’s theme, quoting Revelation 21:5 — “Behold, I am making everything new.”

LOCALLY ROOTED, GLOBALLY FOCUSED As the denomination’s current Officer for global concerns and interfaith

The Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson, newly elected General Minister and President of the UCC, speaks after her election at General Synod 34 in Indianapolis. Photo Credit: Curly Stumb

relations, Thompson speaks frequently about building connections on all levels.

“Being church means we are locally rooted and globally focused, connecting the issues we see in ways that allow us to bring justice to the world,” she has said.

In speaking to the UCC Board before her nomination, she emphasized that dismantling oppressive systems everywhere is necessary for both communities and congregations, internationally and domestically, to thrive.

“Decolonizing the church on all levels has to be a priority,” she said.

“Decolonizing the church includes our commitment to racial justice and more.

Being antiracist and inclusive requires that we decolonize our institutions in ways that afford all to be present

and participate equally. This is a commitment to equity for all.”

LOOKING AHEAD In her nomination speech to General Synod on June 30, Rev. Thompson spoke about the hope she sees springing forth within the UCC. “Here is the place where we have seen the Spirit of God poured forth among us in many ways. Here is the place where we continue to identify the many accomplishments of the ancestors.

Here is where we honor the resilience of those who came before us, took risk and oftentimes did more with less than we currently have. And here is the place we identify as now, as we ponder the call of God to be salt and light to the world,” she said.

Thompson has been serving as Associate General Minister for Wider Church Ministries and Co-Executive

for Global Ministries since 2019. She has served in the National Setting of the United Church of Christ since 2009, previously as minister for racial justice and minister for ecumenical and interfaith relations. Prior to joining National Setting staff, Thompson served on staff of the UCC’s Florida Conference, as a church planter in Florida and in family ministries in New York.

Thompson holds a doctorate in ministry, with a dissertation in religious multiplicity among African Caribbean people, from Seattle University; a master of divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary; and a master of public administration degree from North Carolina Central University.

The UCC Board will name an interim Associate General Minister to serve in Thompson’s vacated position until the following General Synod 35 in 2025.

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THE ARTS B R O O K LY N M U S E U M P R E S E N T S S P I K E L E E E X H I B I T The Brooklyn Museum is proud to present Spike Lee: Creative Sources, a rare glimpse into the world of Spike Lee (born Atlanta, Georgia, 1957; raised in Brooklyn, New York), one of the most influential and prolific American directors, who has transformed the landscape of contemporary cinema and the art of filmmaking. Through an immersive installation of objects that have been touchpoints in his creative process, visitors will discover the sources of inspiration that have fueled Lee’s work. Organized around seven themes—Black history and culture, Brooklyn, sports, music, cinema history, family, and politics— the exhibition draws connections between the people, places, and ideas behind his creative endeavors. It also marks Brooklyn’s first major exhibition on Lee, an artist whose persona is synonymous with the borough.

Lee is best known for his work in film, having directed, written, and produced numerous movies, commercials, music videos, and recorded plays over the past forty years. His personal collection, also formed over decades and previously on view in the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures’ exhibition Director’s Inspiration: Spike Lee (2021–22), mirrors the themes that recur in his filmmaking.

The Brooklyn Museum’s exhibition offers visitors a new lens through which to understand how Lee’s lifelong interests have intersected and impacted his productions. It is organized by Kimberli Gant, Curator, Modern and Contemporary Art, with Indira A. Abiskaroon, Curatorial Assistant, Modern and Contemporary Art, Brooklyn Museum.

“Spike Lee: Creative Sources offers a fresh perspective on a cultural icon, focusing on the individuals and influences that have shaped Spike Lee’s body of work, which is so well known today,” says Gant. “By making Lee’s collection accessible to the public, this showcase celebrates his legacy while honoring his deep connection to Brooklyn, a place that has been an integral part of his storytelling.”

More than three hundred objects represent the wide range of mediums that have inspired Lee, such as historical photographs, paintings, album covers, movie posters, letters, first edition books, costumes, and film memorabilia (many of which are autographed and signed to the director). They are organized thematically in seven sections, each of which features a clip from one of his ground-breaking films. Shown throughout the exhibition are works by prominent Black American artists,

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including Kehinde Wiley, Deborah Roberts, Elizabeth Catlett, Michael Ray Charles, Gordon Parks, and James Van Der Zee. Also on view are depictions of Black American and African figures across a spectrum of disciplines, such as Nelson Mandela,

Brooklyn has shaped Lee creatively.

The section about Brooklyn presents photographs by David Lee (Spike Lee’s younger brother) and Tseng Kwong Chi; movie posters; and set dressings and props from Lee’s Brooklyn based films, such as Do

to musicals and plays, and his late father, Bill Lee, a jazz musician who wrote the score for several of his films.

The section about music includes portraits of early to mid-twentiethcentury musical luminaries, such as Gordon Parks’s photograph of composer Aaron Copland and James J. Kriegsmann’s photograph of Frank Sinatra. These works are displayed alongside instruments once owned by legendary musicians, such as Prince’s “Love Symbol” guitar and a saxophone signed by Branford Marsalis, who collaborated on the soundtrack for Mo’ Better Blues (1990).

Though he developed a distinct visual language and technique, Lee would not have become the creative powerhouse that he is today without the profound influence of other important filmmakers. The cinema history section presents photographs and vintage posters of films by his predecessors and contemporaries, such as Japanese director Akira Kurosawa and Italian director Federico Fellini, showcasing the range of work that inspires Lee.

Barack Obama, Shirley Chisholm, Angela Davis, Toni Morrison, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Malcolm X, Jacob Lawrence, Gwendolyn Knight, Joe Louis, Jack Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Prince—all of whom have made an impact on Lee. Known for creating complicated and often controversial depictions of Black people, Lee is strongly influenced

by Black history and culture, which is highlighted in a primary section of the exhibition. Michael Ray Charles’s satirical artwork Forever Free (Bamboozled) (1997) depicts a dartboard with the face of a Black American winking and smiling widely, despite the deep wound cleaved into the figure’s head. Representing the racist stereotyping of Black people, the painting helped inspire Lee’s provocative film Bamboozled (2000), a critique of minstrelsy and blackface.

Other objects in the section, such as images of Harlem and of public figures Lena Horne, Jacob Lawrence, and James Baldwin, weave a narrative about self-expression, community, and activists who condemned segregation and sought to build a better world.

A Brooklyn icon, Lee has centered the borough and other New York City locales in many of his films, and he has collected and preserved artifacts from Brooklyn’s rich history. In turn, the exhibition examines the ways that

the Right Thing (1989) and She’s Gotta Have It (1986). These works are displayed alongside banners and posters for Lee’s Brooklyn-based film company 40 Acres and a Mule, named after the broken promise that the U.S. government made to formerly enslaved people at the end of the Civil War. Lee’s collection also contains numerous works that celebrate the historical feats of Black athletes.

On view in the sports section is a commissioned painting by Kehinde Wiley that honors the legacy of Brooklyn Dodgers player Jackie Robinson, the first Black American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era. Also exhibited are tennis rackets that belonged to Arthur Ashe, the first Black American to win three Grand Slam singles titles, and Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players in history. In addition, the section features David Levinthal’s photographs of notable moments in sports history, starring toy figures of such heroes as Michael Jordan and Willie Mays.

Known for collaborating with renowned jazz musicians and hip-hop artists, Lee centers music as a distinctive component of his films. His love for music and musicals was passed down from his mother, Jacquelyn Shelton Lee, who frequently took him

August 24, 2023 - August 30, 2023

As seen since his earliest works, Lee makes films that are inherently political, often examining the everyday lives of Black Americans and the systemic inequities they contend with.

In the section on politics, World War II and Vietnam War propaganda posters featuring stereotypical imagery of Black American soldiers are displayed alongside posters of Lee’s Miracle at St. Anna (2008) and Da 5 Bloods (2020). Both films spotlight the treatment of Black American soldiers and emphasize the hypocrisy of making them fight alongside white counterparts and for the United States.

The notion of family, which has been important for Lee both on- and off-screen, forms a final section of the exhibition. Here, visitors will see photographic portraits of Lee and his siblings, parents, and grandparents, as well as artistic depictions of family

by Elizabeth Catlett and William H. Johnson. Additional works on view include portraits of the actors, designers, writers, musicians, and other colleagues who have become part of Lee’s professional family and helped him realize his artistic vision through the decades.

Spike Lee: Creative Sources is organized by Kimberli Gant, Curator, Modern and Contemporary Art, with Indira A. Abiskaroon, Curatorial Assistant, Modern and Contemporary Art, Brooklyn Museum.

Special thanks to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, especially Dara Jaffe, Associate Curator.

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ENTER TAINMENT

A F R O P U N K R E T U R N S T O B R O O K LY N For nearly 20 years, AFROPUNK has been Brooklyn's community festival, welcoming fans of all kinds to witness the vanguard of Black music and culture. This weekend, August 26 and 27, AFROPUNK BROOKLYN returns, debuting at a new venue, Greenpoint Terminal Market, but keeping that same energy. This year’s Brooklyn event will introduce a new theme – CIRCUS OF SOUL – transforming the riverside blacktop into a carnivalesque exhibition that spotlights all aspects of Black creativity, soundtracked by music that speaks to the heart of the Black experience.

The first AFROPUNK Brooklyn at Greenpoint Terminal Market promises to be a celebratory affair.

Before Flying Lotus closes the evening with his cosmic jazz on Saturday night, the first day of AP BK 2023 brings a hip-hop heavy slate–as the genre continues to celebrate its 50th birthday–with performances from stars like Vince Staples, Toby Nwigwe, and NYC rap icons Beatnuts, plus performances from acclaimed jazz singer Madison McFerrin, R&B riser

Gogo, and more. Each day will start with music from local, Black-led punk bands, including The Rack, Winter Wolf, and Uniity.

Between sets, AFROPUNK welcomes local DJs, DJ Mahogany and DJ SNS, to keep the energy going.

Located on the banks of the East River, with unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline, Greenpoint Terminal Market provides a picturesque location for the performances and trademark AFROPUNK activations, including the Spinthrift Market and AFROPUNK's Bites 'n Beats.

Durand Bernarr, and many more.

On Sunday, the one-and-only Teyana Taylor graces the stage, following Brooklyn's own Joey Bada$$,

plus a murderer's row of talented individuals including Baby Tate, Sudan Archives, Dreamer Isioma, South African amapiano artist DBN

On Friday, August 25, AFROPUNK is doing a full-day takeover of the Irregular Hours Career Center.

The takeover will include cereal breakfasts with experts from across the arts, community-organizing and fashion, free headshots with a makeup artist, brands and a stylist on hand to get fans photo-ready, and cocktails and new friends at Hours After Hours, with sounds from DJ Huggy Bear.

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

E P I C P R E S E N T S N I G H T H O N O R I N G W H I T N E Y H O U S TO N

This August 30th, get ready for an "unforgettable" night filled with soulful melodies and enchanting voices at Keystone Korner Baltimore Jazz Club. EPIC FAM, in partnership with Dream Launchers, proudly presents "One Moment In Time" featuring the Baltimore native and powerhouse singer, Gabby Samone.

As we celebrate the birthday of the iconic Ms. Whitney Houston, join us for a tribute like no other. Baltimore’s very own Gabby Samone, who appeared on the “Jennifer Hudson Show” in November 2022, will debut a mesmerizing performance to honor the late Whitney Houston. With vocals and appearances similar to Houston, it's no wonder why she was chosen to be the singer who leads the tribute. Gabby has opened for R&B legends Keke Wyatt and Kelly Price and landed a role in her first major production, “Dream Girls.” Disney also chose her to remix the Hercules classic “Go The Distance.” By being selected as the tribute artist, she solidifies her position as Baltimore's Next Up and Coming Artist on the RISE. EPIC FAM expresses their excitement: "We are delighted at EPIC FAM to partner with Dream Launchers and Keystone Korner in celebrating the music and honoring the vocal artistry of Ms. Whitney Houston, the greatest female vocalist in Pop music history. Ms. Houston’s greatness has inspired a new generation of vocalists to

reach for their highest excellence in the magic of musical storytelling. Keystone has a rich history in honoring the legends, and its music venue in Baltimore creates the perfect vibe to celebrate! EPIC FAM is dedicated to continuing the legacy Ms. Houston created!

As a new artist, Gabby Samone undoubtedly represents that legacy personified to this generation for many years to come."

Dream Launchers shares their enthusiasm: "Dream Launchers & EPIC FAM's 'One Moment in Time: A Night Honoring the Musical Legacy of Whitney Houston' promises to be an event you don't want to miss. Much like 'The Voice' herself, Baltimore's own emerging star, Gabby Samone's vocal recipe of range and power blended with her ever-sweet tone leaves listeners with chills. It only gets better as this magical and memorable night will feature other hometown rising stars; the musical genius of 'Jeheiel' and the soulful, jazz-influenced music of singer/songwriter 'Vyann.' This is all happening at Baltimore's premier jazz and dinner club, Keystone Korner. Be sure to get your tickets today to see firsthand that the future of Baltimore and the music industry is in good hands."

General admission tickets are available for $30, with VIP seating priced at $35. Secure your tickets now to witness a musical event that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul. This is your chance to be a part of a truly unforgettable experience.

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August 24, 2023 - August 30, 2023

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A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T U M E C E L E B R AT E S HIP H O P WITH C O L L E C T I B L E C A R D S Universal Music Enterprises (UME) has launched a hip-hop music collaboration with The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in celebration of Hip Hop At 50 – Honoring 50 Years of Hip Hop: A Legacy of Rhythm, Revolution, and Soul.

Together with the MTA, UMe have created 80,000 “Metro Cards” available in subway vending locations across New York City. These collectibles feature four generational East Coast hip-hop icons, namely Cam’Ron, LL COOL J, Rakim, and Pop Smoke.

About the cards, Rakim commented, “From standing on top of the Empire State Building to grabbing a slice at the corner pizza shop, NYC creates iconic moments that are recognized around the world. But it doesn’t get closer to real city life than swiping a metro card and standing clear of the closing doors. It’s an honor to be celebrating the 50th Anniversary on the streets… and now below them… of the city where hip-hop was born.”

LL COOL J added, “When I first started in Hip-Hop, we were using tokens and then in the 90’s the MetroCard came out. And through the pandemic I remember riding the subway anonymously by myself. Now in 2023 I have my own limited-edition MetroCard in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop. This is a beautiful full circle moment. Hip-Hop is amazing!”

The LL COOL J cards are coinciding with the second year of The Rock The Bells Festival in Forest Hills, Queens. Rock The Bells is dedicated to the ongoing preservation and illumination of the culture that Hip Hop has made global. This metro card project celebrates 4 watershed moments in New York hip hop and represents the everchanging bedrock of the culture, this is a symbol to the next generation that ideas and self-expression matters, and putting a positive and uplifting message into the world can make you a super star.

Cards can be found across New York City. The LL COOL J cards can be found in Forest Hills at the 71st Ave metro stop in CTR areas N333, N333A, and N333B. In collaboration with the Shoot For The Stars Foundation, the Pop Smoke cards appear at the CanarsieRockaway Pkwy stop in CTR area R634, in addition to the New Lots Ave stop in CTR area H041. Vending machines with the Cam’Ron and Rakim cards will be revealed soon. As part of this initiative, hip-hop quite literally courses through the nervous system of New York City, adorning these subway locales.

As part of Hip Hop At 50 – Honoring 50 Years of Hip Hop: A Legacy of Rhythm, Revolution, and Soul, one of the culture’s most influential artists Eric Haze developed a very special logo for Hip Hop 50 as chronicled by All Access, uDiscoverMusic,

and more.

UMe just released a new “Best Hip Hop Hits – HIP HOP 50 Edition” Spotify playlist.

Hip Hop 50 traces the history of rap music with a series of very special anniversary editions of classic albums on exclusive vinyl colorways throughout 2023. These LPs span Nicki Minaj’s Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded on June 2, Lil Wayne’s Tha

Carter III (Deluxe) on June 9, and Salt-nPepa’s Very Necessary on October 13.

In the fall, releases include Gang Starr’s Daily Operation, LL COOL J’s Mama Said Knock You Out, Onyx’s Bacdafucup, and Guru’s Jazzmatazz Vol. 1 on November 3 followed by Public Enemy’s It Takes A Nation of Millions To Hold Us Back on November 10.

A S S O C I AT I O N O F A F R I C A N M U S E U M S A P P O I N T S N E W B O A R D M E M B E R The Association of African American Museums (AAAM) is proud to announce the election of Kamila E. Pritchett, the esteemed Executive Director of the Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida, Inc., to the Board of Directors. This significant appointment reflects Pritchett's outstanding contributions to the preservation and celebration of African American history and culture.

As a leader in the museum and cultural heritage sector for a decade, Kamila has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing the understanding and appreciation of the heritage of the African Diaspora. Her expertise and vision has not only elevated the Black Archives, but has also made a positive impact on the broader cultural arts community.

Kamila has been instrumental in the organization’s preservation efforts, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives that have attracted diverse audiences and fostered inclusivity.

Through her leadership, the Black Archives and the Historic Lyric Theater has become a beacon of excellence, promoting social awareness and historical enrichment.

"Kamila’s election to the Board of Directors of the Association of African American Museums is a testament to her exemplary dedication to our shared mission," said Omar Eaton-Martinez, President of the AAAM Board. “Her insights and experience will be invaluable in furthering our collective goal of preserving and promoting the rich tapestry of African American history and culture."

The Association of African American Museums is a distinguished organization dedicated to supporting museums, cultural institutions, and professionals that conserve, interpret, and showcase the African American experience. As a member of the

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Board of Directors, Kamila will actively contribute to shaping the strategic direction of the AAAM, fostering collaboration among member institutions, and championing initiatives that amplify the African American story.

"I am deeply honored to join the Board of Directors of the Association of African American Museums," Kamila stated. "I look forward to working with my esteemed colleagues on the Board and within the AAAM community to promote the historical and cultural significance of African American museums worldwide."

Kamila’s appointment to the AAAM Board of Directors comes at a crucial time when museums play an essential role in bridging gaps, promoting diversity, and confronting societal challenges through education and advocacy.

Please join us in congratulating Kamila on this well-deserved recognition. We are confident that she will continue to be an inspiring leader, driving positive change, and expanding the impact of African American cultural institutions across the globe.

For more information about The Black Archives, visit BAHLT.org. To learn more about the Association of African American Museums, please visit www.blackmuseums. org.

The Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida is a photographic and manuscript archival research repository dedicated to documenting the history of people of the African Diaspora in Miami-Dade County from 1896 to the present. Founded in 1977, the Black Archives became one to the largest repositories for the history of Blacks in Miami-Dade County. The non-profit organization is housed at the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater (BAHLT) Cultural

August 24, 2023 - August 30, 2023

Arts Complex, a historic landmark on the National Register of Historic Places built in 1913.

The Black Archives explores universal themes of respect for human differences, responsible citizenship, human dignity, education, and community building through the lens of the black experience. We promote mutual respect and understanding and inspire the appreciation of Black culture, arts, history, and entertainment. The Black Archives is sponsored by the City of Miami Southeast Overtown Park West Community Redevelopment Agency, the Office of City of Miami Commissioner Christine King, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, State of Florida Department of State-Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts & Culture, and the State of Florida Section 286.25, Florida Statues, the Institute of Museum & Library Services, and Florida African American Heritage Preservation Network. Visit www. bahlt.org for more information.

The Association of African American Museums (AAAM) is a non-profit member organization established to support African and African American focused museums nationally and internationally, as well as the professionals who protect, preserve and interpret African and African American art, history and culture.

Established as the single representative and principal voice of the African American museum movement, the Association seeks to strengthen and advocate for the interests of institutions and individuals committed to the preservation of African-derived cultures.

The services provided by AAAM enhance the ability of those museums to serve the needs and interests of persons of African ancestry and those who wish to know more about the art, history and culture of African-derived cultures.

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HE ALTH & WELLNE S S H E A LT H Y S M I L E S P R O G R A M I N F U L L S W I N G F O R S C H O O L As the back-to-school season approaches, Phanord & Associates, P.A. encourages parents to ensure their kids return to the classroom with bright and healthy smiles. While the summer offers more time to take care of your kids' oral health, the mad rush of the start of the school year can make you lose track of your kid's oral care routine. A dental visit before school starts is vital to fighting diseases such as cavities and prevention and early detection help to avoid pain and school absences.

 HEALTHY SNACKS AND LUNCHES: What your kids eat contributes to oral health. Be sure to choose tooth-friendly options like cheese, yogurt, veggies, and fruits when packing your kids' lunches.  BRUSHING AND FLOSSING: Encourage regular brushing and flossing by setting up a schedule or calendar as a helpful reminder to help your little ones

"Routine checkups play a crucial role in preventing dental issues and maintaining optimal oral health," said Dr. Kevin Phanord. "A healthy smile boosts confidence and ensures students can focus on their studies without dental discomfort," added Dr. Kyle Phanord.

maintain healthy teeth and gums. REPLACE YOUR KIDS' TOOTHBRUSH EVERY 3-4 MONTHS. Frayed bristles on a worn toothbrush are less effective at cleaning teeth and can harbor bacteria.

Be sure to include a new toothbrush for your kids at the top of your back-toschool shopping list.

To keep your children's oral health in top shape, here are a few essential back-to-school oral health tips:  BACK-TO-SCHOOL CHECKUP: The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends making a dental checkup part of the back-toschool routine.

ABOUT PHANORD & ASSOCIATES, P.A.

Phanord & Associates, P.A. is a leading black-owned family dental practice that has been serving the community for over 30 years. The leading dental practitioner, Dr. Roger Phanord, is a University of Florida College of Dentistry doctoral graduate.

In recent years, the addition of the twin sons, Drs. Kyle and Kevin Phanord, to the dental team, have brought a new level of energy and expertise to the practice. The practice welcomes patients of all backgrounds and offers a range of services, including general, cosmetic dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery. With multilingual staff fluent in Spanish, Creole, and French, they strive to meet and exceed all dental needs. Phanord & Associates P.A. is located at 1245 NW 119th Street in North Miami, Florida.

For more information, visit www. phanord.com or call 305-685-7863.

To connect with Drs. Kevin and Kyle Phanord, be sure to follow them on their TikTok @DentistDuo. In addition, to stay connected with news and information about their dental practice, follow Phanord & Associates, P.A. on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @Phanorddental.

CANCER SURVIVORS SHARE THEIR ‘LOVE L ET TERS’ A special free online workshop "Love Letters to Our Bodies" has been specifically designed by black women to encourage, support, and empower other black women as they navigate the changes brought by cancer. The transformative Love Letters to Our Bodies virtual workshop aims to foster self-love, healing, and celebration of the body despite the adversities of cancer. The workshop will take place online on July 29 and 30, providing a safe and inclusive space for African American/black women affected by cancer to connect, share experiences, and find support.

“Cancer can bring significant physical and emotional changes, particularly affecting women as their bodies adapt to new circumstances,” said Gwendolyn Mitchell, founder of Moyo Institute, Inc., and workshop facilitator. “The Love Letters to Our Bodies workshop recognizes the unique challenges faced by black women and offers a platform to address and embrace these changes through shared stories, interactive sessions, and empowering exercises.”

Cancer is a formidable adversary that affects countless lives. African American/ Black individuals have a disproportionate cancer burden. However, more and more people are surviving cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2022 there were 18.1 million cancer survivors in the United States and the number is expected to increase in the years ahead. In 2022, 69% of survivors have lived 5+ years since their diagnosis; 47% of survivors have lived 10+ years since their diagnosis; and 18% of survivors have lived 20+ years since their diagnosis.

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Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with four dynamic sisters who are thriving, including: Erin "Bionic" Brown, Para triathlete from The Bahamas, who did not let an above the knee amputation, because of bone cancer (Osteosarcoma), stop her from pursuing her dreams. Dee Manuel Cloud, Breast Cancer Recovery Strategist and Speaker, and author of “Beauty in the Breakdown: Finding Peace in the Midst of Life’s Disruptions.” Talaya Dendy, a 12-year Cancer Thriver, Cancer Doula, and host of Navigating Cancer Together Podcast. Tricia Griffith, author of “The Positive of My Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Pearls of Wisdom from the Patient’s Perspective.”

The women also will explore and express their personal relationship with their bodies. The workshop will provide valuable insights and practical mind/body tools for self-care, body positivity, and resilience.

Participants will write Love Letters to their bodies to be printed and recorded.

“If there is one message that women will take from the workshop, it is that cancer is not a death sentence,” Mitchell continued. “And despite the changes that have happened to their bodies, they are beautiful and worthy of love.”

NATIONWIDE - ONLINE – Saturday & Sunday, July 29 & 30, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Pacific, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Mountain, 1:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m., Central, and 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Eastern Offered in partnership with Charlotte Maxwell Clinic for Integrative Cancer Care in Oakland and Smith Center for Healing and the Arts in Washington, DC. Funded by the Lloyd Symington Foundation.

August 24, 2023 - August 30, 2023

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MUSIC & BUSINE S S C E L E B R AT I N G E X C E L L E N C E The highly anticipated 38th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, the “Greatest Night in Gospel Music,” culminated in a spectacular celebration of talent, faith, and inspiration. Hosted by Jonathan McReynolds and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, the 38th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards captivated audiences with powerhouse performances and heartfelt moments that brought the power of Gospel music to life. During a star-studded ceremony held on Saturday at Las Vegas’ Orleans Arena, the winners in key categories were unveiled, highlighting the remarkable achievements and contributions of Gospel music artists and industry professionals. Other categories were awarded in Pre-Show festivities. Dottie Peoples received the Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legends Award.

The show opened with an electrifying performance of "Miracles'' and "Impossible"

by Kierra Sheard Kelly and Pastor Mike Jr., the night's biggest winner. Pastor Mike, Jr. earned eight awards for his work on the album “Winning,” released under Blacksmoke Music Worldwide. The project was named Album of the Year and Contemporary Album of the Year, while Pastor Mike, Jr. also took home the prestigious Song of the Year Presented by McDonald’s, Artist of the Year Presented

by Dream In Black, Male Artist of the Year, Contemporary Male Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, and Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year awards.

DOE, who entered the industry with her family as a member of the group Forever Jones, praised her way to solo success earning three trophies, including the Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year Presented by Walmart, Contemporary Female Artist of the Year, and Urban/ Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year for her album “Clarity,” released under Life Room Label/RCA Inspiration. Zacardi Cortez also brought home three statues, earning awards for Traditional Male Artist of the Year Presented by Bevel, Traditional Album of the Year, and Praise and Worship Song of the Year for his album “Imprint,” released under Blacksmoke Music Worldwide.

The collaborative effort of Maverick City

Music x Kirk Franklin resulted in their joint album “Kingdom Book One” winning in two categories, Duo/Chorus Group of the Year Presented by P&G and Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year. Tye Tribbett also brought home two awards, including Producer Of The Year Presented by AFLAC and Recorded Music Packaging Of The Year.

Lena Byrd Miles earned the New Artist

IN

GOSPEL MUSIC

prestigious Aretha Franklin Icon Award Presented by State Farm, recognizing her exceptional talent and enduring impact.

Winans also gave a moving performance of her song “Goodness of God” from her album “Believe For It.” Reverend Dr. Milton Biggham was honored with the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award Presented by Verizon in recognition of his lifetime dedication to spreading

Presenters for the evening include Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, Marvin Sapp, Lady Tramaine Hawkins, Brian Courtney Wilson, Erica Campbell, Isabel Davis, James Fortune, Koryn Hawthorne, Jason Clayborn, NOTKARLTONBANKS, Pastor Shirley Caesar and Travis Greene.

CeCe Winans performs during the 38th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena

Israel Houghton, Kirk Franklin, and Tye Tribbett perform during the 38th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena

of the Year award for her My Block Records project “Brand New,” Bishop T.D. Jakes won Special Event Album Of The Year, Tasha Cobbs Leonard won for Praise And Worship Album Of The Year, Lecrae was a winner for Rap Hip Hop Gospel Album Of The Year, and Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson was honored with Quartet Of The Year. A complete list of winners is available at www. stellarawards.com.

In addition to the award recipients, special honorees were recognized for their invaluable contributions to the Gospel music industry. CeCe Winans received the

Jenkins, DOE, Dottie Peoples, Isaac Carree, Jevon Dewand and The TrapStarz, Kierra Sheard-Kelly, Naomi Raine, Natalie Grant, Maranda Curtis, Tim Bowman Jr. & Faith City Music, Zacardi Cortez, and Zak Williams & 1 Akord. Performing on the AT&T Emerging Voices stage, Byrd Miles, Bishop S.Y. Younger, and Victory will delight audiences with their rich vocals and undeniable stage presence.

the uplifting message of Gospel music.

Additionally, Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones was presented with the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award, acknowledging his outstanding contributions and influential career.

Show co-hosts McReynolds and Cobbs Leonard delivered huge performances that will uplift and inspire audiences worldwide, while an exclusive Reunion Tour preview performance featuring Kirk Franklin, Israel Houghton, and Tye Tribbett brought the house down! Viewers can also look forward to powerhouse performances by Charles

AT&T Dream in Black proudly serves as the presenting sponsor for the 38th Annual Stellar Awards. Additionally, esteemed companies such as Aflac, GM, Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, McDonald's, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Spotify, State Farm, Verizon, and Walmart joined as supporters of this year's program.

The 38th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards celebrates the rich diversity and unwavering spirit of Gospel music, showcasing its profound impact on audiences worldwide. The winners and honorees exemplify the power of faith, talent, and dedication within the Gospel music community. This year's ceremony will touch the hearts of viewers across the nation when it premieres on the newly launched Stellar Network on Sunday, July 30 at 6:00 p.m. ET (available on Charter Spectrum, Verizon Fios, and Xumo Play), followed by a broadcast on BET on Sunday, August 6 at 8:00 p.m. ET and Bounce on September 3 at 1:00 p.m. ET. The show will also be broadcast nationally through TV syndication from August 7, 2023, to September 10, 2023. Please check with your local provider for availability in your area.

The 38th Stellar Gospel Music Awards show is Executive Produced by Don Jackson, with Jennifer J. Jackson serving as Executive in Charge of Production and Producer. Michael A. Johnson will produce and direct this year's award show.

T-MOBILE COMMITS TO EMPOWERING UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES NCRF is proud to partner with T-Mobile on a mutual mission to provide exceptional career opportunities to underserved and under-resourced communities. This national campaign is open to all high school graduates and adults looking to discover a range of different career opportunities at the company.

The collaboration opens doors to individuals seeking diverse career opportunities at T-Mobile. The company offers a comprehensive range of roles across different sectors, including customer-facing store roles, business-to-business, sales, and HR, among others.

T-Mobile's robust employee benefits package includes healthcare, 70% off phone bills, and college tuition assistance programs. These benefits are designed to support employees' educational pursuits alongside their career growth.

Moreover, T-Mobile provides a wide array of entry-level positions that include internships, returnships, and fellowships. After 90 days of employment, employees can apply for tuition

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reimbursement and assistance programs offering monetary aid for education at one of nine universities. NCRF’s partnership with T-Mobile is emblematic of its mission to close the gap in educational achievement and create employment opportunities for underserved and under-resourced students.

To view a short T-Mobile success story, visit: https://youtu.be/YspWSdpWNms Through strong industry partnerships like this with T-Mobile, NCRF provides essential resources and career opportunities. Those interested can join the T-Mobile talent community at any time during this ongoing partnership to explore the numerous career opportunities available at T-Mobile.

To search all T-Mobile careers scan the QR code or visit: http://careers.t-mobile.com/job-search For more information on NCRF and its many programs please visit: www.ncrfoundation.org About NATIONAL COLLEGE RESOURCES FOUNDATION National College Resources Foundation

(NCRF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational enhancement organization serving over 200,000 students annually through a variety of impactful programs and initiatives.

Founded in 1999 by Dr. Theresa Price to serve as a vital link between minorities and college admissions, NCRF’s mission is to curtail the high school dropout rate

August 24, 2023 - August 30, 2023

and increase degree and/or certificate enrollment among underserved, underrepresented, at-risk, low-resourced, homeless and foster students. NCRF’s vision is to close the gap in educational achievement and workforce and economic disparities, with the goal of ending racism and racial inequalities.

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END NO TE S p e p s i C E L E B R AT E S B L A C K - O W N E D R E S TA U R A N T S W I T H F E S T I V I T I E S PEPSI® Dig In, the brand's platform designed to drive access, business growth, and awareness to Black-owned restaurants, returns with Pepsi Dig In Day, its annual calling to encourage diners across the country to visit Blackowned restaurants. This year, Pepsi Dig In Day is on Saturday, August 19, timed to National Black Business Month and is expanding its efforts to amplify and support Black-owned restaurants. New marquee activities across the country include a block party in Washington, D.C. highlighting local Black businesses, curated dinner events featuring chefs and restaurateurs in partnership with the James Beard Foundation, and Pepsi Dig In covering $100,000 in free meals for consumers when they visit select restaurants across the country.

In addition, Pepsi Dig In is once again encouraging foodies to show the love on social media by posting a photo of their meal from a Black-owned restaurant and tagging the eatery and Pepsi Dig In for the chance to win $5,000 to dine at their favorite Black-owned restaurants as well as unlock a $5,000 donation to the restaurant.

"Our goal for Pepsi Dig In has always been to celebrate and generate awareness for Black-owned restaurants, not just on Pepsi Dig In Day, but all year long," says Scott Finlow, Chief Marketing Officer of PepsiCo Global Foodservice. "This year, we're turning up the flavor and excitement with the support of renowned partners like the James Beard Foundation and events like our Washington D.C. block party where people can indulge in delicious food, cheer on talented chefs, and soak up the vibrant culture that accompanies every dish."

PEPSI DIG IN DAY ON AUGUST 19 This year, Pepsi Dig In is giving food lovers a chance to discover every bite is Better With Pepsi and explore more ways to get involved and dine at Black-owned restaurants across the country, including:  Offering complimentary signature dishes at 25 restaurants (while supplies last) in major cities nationally. Pepsi Dig In is covering $100,000 in free food to encourage diners to discover Blackowned restaurants and explore their diverse offerings in cities including Los Angeles, Nashville, Chicago, Houston, Philadelphia and more. Fans can visit EatOkra – the largest database of Blackowned restaurants – to find participating locations and other establishments in their area. In addition, foodies can check out Black and Mobile to order delivery from Black-owned restaurants in their local neighborhood.  Hosting a Pepsi Dig In Day Block Party on August 19 in Washington D.C., already a city that boasts one of the largest concentrations of Black-owned businesses in the U.S., Pepsi Dig In is bringing its festivities to Anacostia – one of the country's historic African American neighborhoods. The block party at Sandlot Anacostia will host performances

by GRAMMY Award nominated artist Pusha T, Alex Vaughn, Black Alley, DJ Five9 and DJ Money to bring locals

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together, create connections, and foster a sense of community while spotlighting Black restaurateurs and small Blackowned businesses. Featured local restaurants include Roaming Rooster, Jerk at Nite, Money Muscle BBQ and more.  Giving fans the chance to win $5,000 when they post their meal on

to increase sales and revenue long term to stay competitive in today's ever evolving digital world. To date, the program has helped more than 250 restaurant locations across the country nearly double their online sales.

Additionally, Pepsi Dig In has partnered with global gaming and entertainment company MGM Resorts International to

complimentary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, PepsiCola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail

Image Credit: PepsiCo

Instagram or Twitter and tag their favorite local Black-owned eatery and @PepsiDigIn with #DigInShowLove #Sweepstakes from August 1 to August 31.

Beyond Dig In Day, Pepsi Dig In is also encouraging diners to visit or order in from Black-owned restaurants throughout the month of August by:  Spotlighting four Black chefs with week-long residencies during August at Platform by the James Beard Foundation (JBF) — a show kitchen and event space for culinary arts programming in NYC—with live cooking demonstrations, special dining experiences, and workshops for consumers. John Cleveland of Post & Beam in Los Angeles, Shenarri Freeman of Cadence in New York City, Ricky Moore of Saltbox Seafood Joint in Durham, North Carolina, and MayaCamille Broussard of Justice of the Pies in Chicago will showcase their talents to a new food-loving audience. Together, Pepsi Dig In and JBF will offer short-term and long-term tools to drive the continued success for these restaurateurs.

Pepsi Dig In continues its work yearround to support and spotlight Blackowned restaurants, offering restaurateurs access to Black Restaurants Deliver - a free eight-week program that offers personalized expert consulting services to support restaurants in building online ordering capabilities and search presence. With program management

by Figure 8, Black Restaurants Deliver upskills restaurateurs and their offerings

give Black restaurateurs opportunities to be recognized on a national scale with its Restaurant Royalty Residency program.

In alignment with MGM Resorts' commitments to greater inclusion, this initiative features talented chefs and their curated, limited-edition menu items for four weeks at specialty restaurants at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and Luxor Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Pepsi Dig In is a platform designed to drive access, business growth, and awareness to Black-owned restaurants.

Pepsi Dig In helps diners discover, dine at, or order from Black-owned restaurants while providing resources, mentorship, and training to Black restaurateurs.

Utilizing the scale and reach of PepsiCo and its partners, Pepsi Dig In aims to create opportunities for Black-owned restaurants to thrive.

Launched in 2020 as part of PepsiCo's Racial Equality Journey (REJ), the company committed $50 million to support Black-owned businesses over five years, part of PepsiCo's larger REJ initiative totaling more than $400 million to increase representation within the company, support Black-owned businesses, and help to create economic opportunities in the communities it serves.

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $86 billion in net revenue in 2022, driven by a

August 24, 2023 - August 30, 2023

sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for the planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Begins 8/1/23, 12:00:00 a.m. ET and ends 8/31/23, 11:59:59 p.m. ET. Open to legal U.S. residents residing in the 50 US/DC who are 18 or older (19 or older for AL/NE) at the time of entry.

Void where prohibited. To enter without making a purchase, email pepsidigin@ genescosports.com with "Pepsi Dig In Entry" in the Subject line and include (a) your first and last name, complete street address (no PO boxes), day phone number, DOB and email address; and (b) the name and address of the Black-owned restaurant you would have tagged if you were entering via Twitter or Instagram. Limit one entry per person per day, regardless of entry method.

Subject to Official Rules: bit.ly/3CPMfga.

Sponsor: Pepsi-Cola Company, 700 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY 10577.

SOURCE: PepsiCo Beverages North America

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8 kids a day are accidentally killed or injured by FAMILY FIRE. FAMILY FIRE is a shooting involving an improperly stored gun, often found in the home.

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