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VOLUME 27 ISSUE 3

JANUARY 19, 2017 - JANUARY 25, 2017

Since 1989

FEDERAL FUNDING CUTS THREATENS PUBLIC SAFETY

President Trump issued an executive order and its purported purpose was to enhance public safety. But here in New York City, and in cities across this nation, this executive order could in fact under mind public safety and make our neighborhoods less safe – firstly, because this executive order could undermine the relationship between our police department and our communities, which has been the foundation of our ability to drive down crime; second, because the potential funding cuts suggested in the executive order would first and foremost fall on the NYPD, thus taking away resources that we use every day to protect the people of this city against crime and against terrorism. So, the executive order on its face contradicts its stated purpose. And, again, this is true here in New York City and will be true in cities all over the country. There are hundreds of cities that work with their immigrant populations, including their undocumented immigrants – here in this city, a community number numbering almost half a million people. Hundreds of American cities where this executive order could undermine public safety, create a rift and a disconnect between the police departments and those they serve, and take away funding from law enforcement – that’s the potential magnitude of what we face here. But, at the same time, it is important to understand that in New York City this executive order does not change who we are or how we will go about doing our work. The stroke of a pen in Washington does not change the people of New York City, or our values. It does not change how this city government protects its people. The executive order will not change how we enforce the law in New York City, or how we do business on behalf of the people, all 8.5 million New Yorkers. This is a city of immigrants – we always have been for almost 400 years. This is our fundamental nature. When you look at all those gathered around me – I want to thank the leaders of this administration and key partners who have gathered here. The grant is one of 35 five-If you look at this group of New Yorkers, who represent

years ago when the federal government tried to withhold unrelated funding from states in a similar action. None other than Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the opinion of the Supreme Court case, NFIB v. Sebelius, in 2012, which prohibited the federal government from broad-brush withholding of funds. And Justice Roberts wrote that such an action would be the federal government “holding a gun to the head” of states and cities.

nations all over the globe, in terms of the backgrounds of our families – this is a picture of the immigrant experience right here before you. And it is also a picture of a city that works and a city that respects all people – tries to include everyone and respect their rights. This is the American dream right before your eyes, and we are not going to allow it to be undermined. We are going to defend all of our people, regardless of where they come from and regardless of their documentation and status. We are also proud of the fact that New York City is the safest city in America. It’s because of the extraordinary work of the men and women of the NYPD, but it’s also because of the work of so many partners and communities all over the city who help the NYPD in its work, who trust the NYPD, who provide information and support of the NYPD, who help our officers to stay safe. We are a city in which people regardless of documentation status know that they can report a crime or, if they are a victim of a crime, can come forward – witness to a crime and come forward and know that information will be used to keep us all safe but it will not be used to deport them – that fundamental compact that goes back in this city decades through Democratic, Republican, and Independent administrations here in New York City. It’s one of the reasons we became the safest big city in America, and we are not going

to undermine the progress the NYPD has made over a quarter-century. The spirit of this executive order runs contrary to our character and our values as a city, and, I would argue, it runs contrary to the character and values of the United States. Now, as we have looked at the executive orders just in the last hour or two, we do want to let the people of New York City know that there is less here than meets the eye. This executive order is written in a very vague fashion. We believe that not only will it be susceptible to many legal challenges, but that it will be met with tremendous public resistance all over the nation – that there will be a fundamental sense of unfairness recognized in this executive order and that the legal issues that will be raised could fundamentally change the outcome.

“The spirit of this executive order runs contrary to our character and our values as a city….” — Mayor deBlasio I want to note that we believe that we are on solid ground for the legal challenge to the executive order, should the occasion arise and be necessary. Specifically, among other reasons – specifically because some recent

So that broad-brush action was banned by the United States Supreme Court. Following that logic, a narrow application of executive order means that money that would be withheld – would be withheld from law enforcement, specifically from the NYPD. So the sum total would be both an unfair action that would cause a rift between the NYPD and the community it serves, while simultaneously taking resources away from the NYPD that is uses to keep us safe – a double jeopardy for the NYPD. Notwithstanding the challenges and problems we see here. It is important to remind all New Yorkers that the NYPD, the Department of Corrections, the City of New York has been cooperating with the federal government over these last years in terms of sharing information and working in cases involving individuals who have committed 170 different offenses. This is public record – hold it up here and we will distribute it. These are the lists of the 170 offenses that by city law trigger specific cooperation between the City of New York and the federal government in the case of an undocumented individual. These are serious offenses, violent crimes. This is the law of New York City. It has been for years and it has been the basis for productive cooperation with the federal government. This works. It has been working and it has helped to keep us safe without undermining the relationship between our police and our communities. This will continue. But, we will not deport law abiding New Yorkers. We will not tear families apart. We will not leave children without their parents. We will not take bread winners away from families who have no one else. And we are not going to undermine the hard one trust that has developed between our police and our communities. NYPD began this day winning the war against crime and terror using the right approach and that approach will continue tomorrow.

INSIDE T HIS IS SUE :

Education pg.5 PAGE 4 FAREWELL

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NEWS

NEW YEAR BEST TIME TO MAKE FRESH START!

Enlist Friends. If you and your friends have a common goal, join forces. If you’re looking to get more walks in, enlist friends and family members to walk with you at specific times. The buddy system is a great motivation tool, and calling on the help of your family and friends provides the added benefit of seeing loved ones more often in the year ahead.

A New Year means a fresh start and it’s the perfect springboard for setting new intentions. Historically, New Years has been the opportune time to create change and set positive goals. But, old habits die hard, which can make it a challenge to men, women, and even kids to stay committed to their New Years resolutions. But a new year marks a new phase, and the following are some ways you can ensure this year’s pledge’s, proposals, and plans don’t remain pending. Be Specific. A resolution that’s too vague or general may ultimately prove ineffective. For example, if one of your resolutions is to lose weight, you probably hope to lose a significant amount over the new year, as opposed to one or two pounds. If you set specific and periodic goals, such as lose two or three pounds by the end of January, then you’re building a measuring stick to which you can gauge your progress along the way. As you meet this measuring stick each month, it will motivate you to

continue on course and realize your resolution by year’s end. Don’t Go to Extremes. If you habitually find resolutions hard to live up to, then stick to a single resolution this year. This allows you to focus your undivided attention and efforts more effectively and makes certain you won’t be overburdened, which could negatively impact your progress and ultimately your success.

“VISIT FLORIDA”

Automated Help. For many, saving money is a popular New Year’s resolution, and employing the use of technology can help you accomplish your financial goals. If your goal is to save ‘X’ amount of dollars this coming year, then sit down and calculate how much you need to save each pay period to make it a reality. You can then have that figure automatically deposited into an interest-bearing savings account each time you’re paid.

Don’t Get Frazzled with Setbacks. A wrong turn at Albuquerque can sometimes derail our progress. Resolutions all too often fall by the curbside when we experience setbacks directly related to our resolutions. If you resolved to save money but had a bad month, don’t allow this tough month to thwart you from your goal. Setbacks are nearly inevitable, but they’re never an excuse to give up on a resolution. Following these few ideas will help your New Year become a promising fresh start. They’ll also make your resolutions come true.

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The VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors unanimously voted to appoint Ken Lawson as VISIT FLORIDA’s new President and CEO. Lawson, a native Floridian and former U.S. Marine Corps Judge Advocate General, spent 12 years serving and protecting the public in numerous regulatory positions, including his most recent work as the Secretary of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). “Florida tourism has great momentum with five consecutive years of record visitation, visitor spending and industry-related employment, and I look forward to building on this momentum to take VISIT FLORIDA to the next level,” said Ken Lawson. 2

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NEWS

PLANS TO BUILD STATE OF THE ART SCHOOL IN BROOKLYN ANNOUNCED

NEW YORK TRENDNYC Owner/Publisher Executive Editor Editor-in-Chief Dr. Teresa Taylor Williams Assistant to Publisher, Administrative Zoie Williams International Correspondent Ann Brown Travel Editor Jim Weaver Contributing Editor Justin Williams Circulation Manager Robert L. Taylor

Mayor Bill de Blasio, Council Member Rafael Espinal and Lorraine Grillo, President and Chief Executive Officer of the New York City School Construction Authority (SCA), today announced the start of the public review process to build a new 1,000 seat school in the East New York section of Brooklyn. “The East New York Plan was adopted this past spring and we are already seeing progress: safer streets, a gracious new community center and now the start of the public comment period for a new public school. This is the beginning of the work we will do to secure a bright and stable future, including new affordable homes, for East New York,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “A school is so much more than a building full of classrooms,” said Council Member Rafael Espinal. “It is where our youth spend the majority of their waking hours learning valuable lessons of community, respect and friendship. A school is where students cultivate their interests and form lasting goals. Aside from the $17 million we allocated to improve existing East New York’s schools, I am so proud to see progress on our vision for a new state-of-the-art 1,000 seat school. The rezoned area will now have the best infrastructure for its students to grow and achieve their dreams. It is also very encouraging to witness the realization of so many commitments made through the East New York Plan in the few months since its passage, just last spring. I commend the de Blasio Administration on its steadfastness, as well as, the SCA on their timely proposals, and I look forward to the valuable input by the community on this crucial project.” “I hope the community will take advantage of this important opportunity to make their voices heard on this important component of East New York’s future. The foundation of a community’s success is built in its investment in ensuring we have safe places to raise healthy children and families; schools are cornerstones of that foundation,” said Borough President Eric Adams. “This new 1,000 seat school will build on the strong public investments made as part of the East New York

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Neighborhood Plan. By taking this step to start our public review process, the School Construction Authority is making good on the commitments to the East New York Community by Mayor de Blasio and Council Member Espinal. When completed, the new school will be a state-of-the-art facility that will be enjoyed for decades to come,” said Lorraine Grillo, President and Chief Executive Officer of the New York City School Construction Authority. The new school building will be constructed on a portion of the Cityowned Dinsmore-Chestnut site. The lot, which is currently vacant, will house the new PS/IS school and serve children from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade in Community School District 19. It will sit next to a future affordable housing project. The state-of-the-art school building will be fully accessible and fully airconditioned. It will include both art and music rooms, a cafeteria, a gymnatorium and exercise room, science labs, a library and other amenities for students. A large outdoor playground will also be built and is expected to be open to the public after school hours. The school will also include a District 75 program, or special education program. The SCA is kicking off its site selection process for the school January 3. The process includes a 45-day public comment period, when the local Community Board and Community Education Council are invited to hold hearings and members of the community are invited to give feedback about the site and the planned school. Information regarding the public hearings will be available through the Community Board 5 and CEC District 19, which are hosing the events.

Online Editorial Director Rachel Breton Hamlett Art Director Allison Burris Emeritus Office & Subscription Manager Sophie Taylor Social Media Zoie A. Williams Writers Ezra Mechaber Deardra Shuler Jim Weaver Anastasia Williams Justin Williams Teresa Williams

NewYorkTrendNYC Catalogued and displayed in the U.S. Library Congress. New York Trend welcomes letters to the editor. 14 Bond Street, Suite 176, Great Neck, N.Y. 11021 Tel. (347) 956-1700 Fax (516) 626-3966 ISSN#1083-58 Email: NYTrend@aol.com Website: www.newyorktrendnyc.com “Like Us” on Facebook: www.facebook.com/newyorktrendnyc New York Trend is published by TTW Associated, Inc. which holds copyright to the content of this publication. ISSN: 1083-5822 Mail inquiries to: New York Trend NYC, 14 Bond Street, Suite 176, Great Neck, N.Y. 11021. New York Trend NYC is not responsible for the content of letters to the editor or opinions expressed by individual writers. New York Trend reserves the right to edit all letters to the editor. Photographs and manuscripts will not be returned.

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 3

2017 NABJ/NBC SUMMER FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

The National Association of Black Journalists is pleased to announce our continued partnership with Comcast NBCUniversal for the NBC News Group Summer Fellows Program! NBCUniversal will offer fellows the opportunity to join one of the following NBC programs for summer 2017 as interns: America’s #1 morning news program, The Today Show • The top ranked evening program, Nightly News with Lester Holt • Our primetime long form news program, Dateline • Our 24 cable news channel, MSNBC • Our top rated business news cable channel, CNBC Students will be paid hourly for 10 weeks and must be willing to live in New York City or its environs for the duration of the internship. NBCUniversal will offer a $2,000 housing stipend available for candidates who reside outside a 50 mi. radius from our Tri-State Area offices. All the internships are located in 30 Rockefeller Center, with the exception of the placements at CNBC, which are located in Englewood Cliffs, NJ. Applicants must be student members of NABJ. Deadline is February 24, 2017 by 11:59 p.m. EST.

Comments on the proposed actions can also be submitted to the New York City School Construction Authority by email at sites@nycsca.org; or mail to New York City School Construction Authority, 30-30 Thomson Avenue, Long Island City, New York 11101. Attention: Ross J. Holden. The deadline for public comments is February 17.

January 19, 2017 - January 25, 2017

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COMMENTARY

“FIRST LADY FAREWELL: CANDID, AUTHENTIC, & UNAPOLOGETIC”

With delicate sophistication and softness, Michelle Obama graced us with her candid conversation during her greatly anticipated interview with Oprah Winfrey on December 19th. The First Lady reflected on some of her greatest memories and achievements during her time in the White House along with some things she wished she had more time to tackle. She held her head high for 8 years along her husband’s side as he stepped into one of the most difficult and scrutinized political positions. Her quiet and reserved demeanor was often referred to as “arrogance” and like many women of color, she was often called an “angry black woman.” But somehow, despite the harsh criticisms and slander, Michelle handled each issue with poise. She challenged Americans to stop using the color of someone’s skin or the size of their bank account to pass inaccurate judgments on who they are at the core. Echoing the sentiments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., she hopes that Americans will learn to “judge people not by the color of their skin, but rather by the contact of their character”.

be dearly missed. Her multi-faceted personality and innate ability to create programs that promote important issues will never go unnoticed. Her silent dignity demanded reverence as she worked quietly and confidently to refine the course of American History. President Obama chimed in and described his wife as, “brilliant and cute and strong and a great mom,” he said, “but I think the way in which she blended purpose and policy with fun so that she was able to reach beyond Washington...was masterful.” I think we can all agree with Mr. Obama that this beautiful bombshell left her mark on the White House through many ways but one of the most memorable may have been when she lifted the 40yr. ban that allowed guests to take photos while on tour in the White House.

During a time when racial tensions are at an all time high in the United States, along with the recent defeat of Hillary Clinton’s run for presidency, Michelle could have taken a completely different approach to this interview. But like she said in her renowned Democratic National Convention Speech earlier this year, “when they go low, we go high,” and that is exactly what she did. Focusing on the high points during President Obama’s eight year term.

As soft chants can be heard from people urging the First Lady to eventually run for presidency, she strongly denied all claims and rumors. Michelle has enjoyed her spotlight taking America by storm with her two beautiful daughters under her arms, but she said enough is enough. During the interview she briefly hinted at the strain of the presidency on her family. When asked why she would not run for president she simply said, “sixteen years?...I would not do that to my kids.” Mrs. Obama does however plan to continue to the programs she initiated and speak up about important causes she tackled while in the White House like her initiatives on children’s health. She hopes to do so without the spotlight and cameras from the White House but rather with her platform and voice.

As a loving mother, influential wife, outspoken feminist, social activist, public speaker and fashion icon, it’s no surprise that this first lady will

As Michelle Obama steps out of the Presidential spotlight she will do so with dignity and pride. With an undergraduate education from

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Princeton University and a law degree from Harvard University, it’s no surprise that this First Lady was more than qualified for her role, which can be attributed to her success. In such a small amount of time she has made such a huge impact on this

country. It is no feat that she will be leaving some large heels to fill. (pun intended) But all jokes aside, we are forever inspired by Michelle Obama’s wisdom and intelligence, she is a true exemplar of black excellence for people worldwide.

21ST ANNUAL AMERICAN BLACK FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 2017 DATES

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) recently announced that the 21st annual event will be held in Miami, June 14-18, 2017. In addition to the best of Black film and TV, the five-day festival will offer an innovative program with new experiences, including The Byron Lewis Careers in Entertainment Center, a multiday educational forum with lectures led by industry experts to provide insight into job opportunities in front of and behind the camera at studios and networks; and ABFF Immersive, where festivalgoers are introduced to virtual reality, 360° video and immersive storytelling

January 19, 2017 - January 25, 2017

through panel discussions, hands-on demos and immersive experiences that demonstrate how technology can impact storytelling. HBO, the ABFF’s founding and presenting sponsor, will be marking the 20th anniversary of the widely acclaimed HBO Short Film Competition at the festival. Festival passes go on sale November 1 at www.abff.com, providing three different levels of access to festival screenings, official and premium events. Questions regarding registration may be directed to info@ abffventures.com. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

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Changing lives is no easy task. Yet Habitat for Humanity does it every day. Habitat for Humanity works with families in the U. S. and around the world who are in need of a decent and affordable place to call home. Habitat helps build strength, stability, and self-reliance as well as shelter. They offer a hand up so families can stand on their own and build better lives for themselves and generations to come. And, in the process, they also strengthen communities. Wells Fargo and our team members share the goals of Habitat. For 24 years, weâ€™ve been privileged to help Habitat across the country in the communities we live and work in by giving grants and volunteer hours, building and improving homes alongside low-income homeowners, seniors, and veterans. Learn more about our relationship with Habitat and other non-profits at wellsfargo.com/stories.

Wells Fargo and Habitat for Humanity in New York 2015/2016

Grants

$75,000

Volunteer Hours Builds

936

ÂŠ 2016 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Data based on 2015 and January 2016, Wells NewYorkTrendnyc 19, Fargo 2017 Housing - JanuaryFoundation 25, 2017 Team Member Volunteer Program results.

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LOCAL NEWS PROGRAM PREPARING YOUTH FOR CAREERS IN CULINARY INDUSTRY

of Small Business Services. “By working with industry leaders, we are helping restaurants succeed in our City while providing New Yorkers with access to career opportunities involving in-demand skills.”

“Through Stage NYC, we are investing in the young adults of New York City.” — Mayor Bill de Blasio

Mayor Bill de Blasio, the Department of Small Business Services and its NYC Food & Beverage Hospitality Council today kicked off NYC Restaurant Week by announcing a new three-month program connecting out-of-school, out-of-work youth with rewarding careers in the New York City restaurant industry. Stage NYC, pronounced “stazhje,” is a partnership with the hospitality industry that will help meet the restaurant sector’s growing demand

for qualified culinary employees while creating new career pathways for New Yorkers. The program will cover technical skills and life skills to ready young adults, aged 18-24, for careers in the restaurant industry. Participants will receive paid, onthe-job training with an industry partner in order to gain hands-on experience. The culmination of both skills and experience training will provide participants with the tools needed to successfully fill positions in a growing industry.

“Thanks to leaders in the restaurant industry, we are allowing young individuals who find themselves out of school and out of work to gain the skills and experience needed to begin a successful career in the culinary field.” “Stage NYC provides out-ofschool, out-of-work youth with the comprehensive training and skills needed to embark on a rewarding career path in the hospitality industry,” said Gregg Bishop, Commissioner of the Department

Stage NYC will target out-of-school and out-of-work young adults, ages 18-24, across all 5 boroughs. The three-month program will first provide participants with a week of classroom training that encompasses both in-demand, technical skills training and soft skills training, such as how to interact with potential supervisors, coworkers and restaurant guests. The remainder of the program will involve students participating in on-the-job training with a local restaurant to gain on-the-job experience. Following the program, participants will have the skills and experience needed to build a successful career in the culinary field.

YOU CAN’T TAKE YOUR EYES OFF GAS SAFETY FOR ONE SECOND.

Gas safety starts at home. So make sure your burners are turned off when you’re not using them. Always store combustible items far away from those appliances. Don’t step, sit, lean or place any objects on gas pipes or equipment. And, if you do smell gas (think: rotten eggs), leave the area immediately and then call 911 or 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633). If you like, you can even report it anonymously. Gas safety involves everyone. To do your part, read all our tips at conEd.com/GasSafety.

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January 19, 2017 - January 25, 2017

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BUSINESS NEWS SBA LAUNCHES 2017 InnovateHER BUSINESS CHALLENGE

The U.S. Small Business Administration today announced the launch of the 2017 InnovateHER: Innovating for Women Business Challenge, a nationwide business competition to drive attention and resources to innovative products and services that make our lives easier and longer. Competitors vie for $70,000 in prize money provided to SBA for the InnovateHER competition through a gift from the Sara Blakely Foundation. “The return of SBA’s InnovateHER Business Challenge presents an exciting opportunity for some of our nation’s foremost entrepreneurs and innovators,” said SBA Administrator Maria ContrerasSweet. “Women represent half of the U.S. workforce and control 80 percent of the nation’s purchasing power, but still make up less than five percent of venture capitalists. I decided to launch this annual competition two years ago so that we could begin to address that opportunity gap, because when women have an equal role in the marketplace and are able to chart their own paths, our nation as a whole is stronger and more globally competitive.”

The number of women venture capital partners has dropped from 10 percent in 1999 to just six percent in 2014, a trend directly correlated to women’s access to capital; only about seven percent of venture capital funding in the United States currently goes to women-owned ventures. Gender bias is well documented in this area: a Harvard Business School study asked potential investors to rate a series of pitches, some of which

were narrated by women and some by men. Even when the scripts were exactly the same, only 32 percent of people said they would fund the woman, compared to 68 percent who said they would fund the man. InnovateHER: Innovating for Women Business Challenge officially kicks off in winter of 2017 with local competitions to be hosted by universities, accelerators, clusters, scale-up communities, SBA resource partners, and other economic

development organizations. Through the competition, SBA is seeking to amplify products or services that fill a need in the marketplace and have the potential for commercialization. SBA continues in its efforts to expand the InnovateHER Challenge, focusing on empowering more women in the investment and innovation space. Additional details on the InnovateHER can be found on the online competition platform www. challenge.gov.

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LOCAL NEWS

SETON HALL LAW OFFERS NEW WEEKEND JD PROGRAM

Classes will be scheduled to enable weekend students to have the full spectrum of cocurricular opportunities open to full-time students, including law journals, moot court and mock trial programs as well as student services and professional organizations.

Seton Hall University School of Law has announced an innovative weekend JD program to make law school more accessible to working professionals. The weekend program, the only one of its kind in the New York metropolitan area and one of only a few nationwide, offers classes at the Law School’s Newark campus on alternate weekends for students who seek to balance their alreadybusy schedules with a law school education. “Seton Hall Law has long been committed to access to a legal education, and this weekend offering continues that tradition.

Students in our new part-time weekend program will enjoy a fullyimmersive law school experience with flexibility better suited to their busy lives,” said Seton Hall Law Dean Kathleen Boozang. “They will be taught by the same outstanding professors who teach in the Law School’s full-time division, using a combination of traditional classroom learning and technology-driven distance learning,” she added. Seton Hall Law’s part-time weekend program will begin in the fall of 2017. Students attend classes over eight weekends each semester. The curriculum is enhanced by self-

directed activities and discussions with professors and classmates via Seton Hall Law’s online learning platform. As they progress through their studies and begin taking elective courses, students will have even greater scheduling flexibility through a combination of fully-online courses and live courses in other time slots, including weekend, evenings, winter intersession, and the summer. Although the program is designed to be completed in four years, students may accelerate their degree completion in a variety of ways.

“Earning a JD while holding a fulltime job is always a challenge,” admits Dean of Admissions Gisele Joachim, “but Seton Hall Law believes this approach will ensure working professionals can more easily balance family, career, and law school. This new weekend offering is an extension of Seton Hall Law’s ongoing investment in tailoring the law school experience to the individual student’s schedule and career aspirations.” Applications are currently being accepted for fall 2017. Anyone interested in learning more should call 888-415-7271 or visit the program’s webpage. Applications for the part-time weekend program can be submitted through the Law School Admission Council at lsac. org. Information about Seton Hall Law generally is available at http:// law.shu.edu.

CHECKLIST FOR TAX IDENTITY SECURITY Tax identity theft is a billion-dollar business. In 2013, the IRS identified 5.1 million fraudulent returns and paid more than $5.8 billion in fraudulent refunds.

Do not give out a Social Security Number (SSN) on the phone or in a public place.

Unfortunately, it’s a relatively easy crime to commit. All the information a criminal typically needs to file a fraudulent tax return is a person’s name, date of birth and Social Security number. They also need a way to file an electronic return.

Do not share an online user ID, password or PIN with others. Do not leave this information anywhere someone else can easily see or gain access to it.

There is no fool-proof way to stop identity theft. The good news is that the number of new reports of identity theft by individuals who filed 2015 federal tax returns has fallen by more than 50 percent thanks to the IRS and the tax industry partnering to combat tax fraud. But there is more to do, and it also takes vigilance and action on the part of consumers. For National Tax Security Awareness Week, taxpayers can review this checklist with some simple ways they can protect their information, beware of scams and be vigilant with their taxes. PROTECT PERSONAL INFORMATION

Do not carry a Social Security card in a wallet. 8

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Do not send a SSN or date of birth in an email or a text.

Avoid easily guessed or common names and numbers for passwords and PINs. Change passwords regularly and don’t use the same password for multiple accounts. Close unused credit-card accounts and destroy the credit card. Use a shredder for documents containing personal information. Use firewalls, anti-spam/virus software, update security patches. Look for the S in https which means the site uses secure encryption technology.

Review financial statements like credit card bills and bank statements for suspicious activity. BEWARE OF SCAMS

Do not shop online on public Wi-Fi where information can be intercepted.

Be aware of phishing and social engineering scams. Be suspicious of emails that ask for credentials. Do not provide personal information over the phone, via text, through the mail or on the Internet.

Request a copy of a credit report and keep tabs on who might be accessing it.

The IRS will never email or connect on social media to request personal information.

January 19, 2017 - January 25, 2017

The IRS will never call to demand immediate payment. The IRS will never ask for credit or debit card information over the phone. The IRS will never require specific payment methods. The IRS will always contact taxpayers by mail first about taxes owed. Report phone calls, emails or letters from IRS impersonators to the Treasury Department. Use its IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting Portal or call 800-366-4484. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

NEWS

UNCF ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL ACHIEVEMENT CAPSTONE PROGRAM AWARDEES

Thirty-seven recent college graduates were announced recenty as inaugural recipients of the UNCF Achievement Capstone Program, each receiving a $2,500 award to pay an unmet undergraduate balance or finance an advanced degree. The new program, administered by UNCF and underwritten by the National Achievement® Scholarship Program, conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), honors and grants financial assistance to high-achieving, underrepresented college graduates at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) in the United States.

“The award money that I’m receiving from UNCF is an investment in my future, and those who donate to support African American students can see a return on that investment in me,” said Shaw University graduate Jordan Galloway, who is pursuing his Ph.D. in chemistry and chemical biology at the University of California, Merced. The National Achievement Scholarship Program has recognized and honored academically talented Black American high school students through NMSC for 51 years. The final group of high school students recognized in the program entered college in 2015. UNCF now carries on the National Achievement® Scholarship Program’s name and legacy through the newlydesigned UNCF Achievement Capstone Program, which launched last spring. ®

UNCF Achievement Capstone Scholars were nominated by their college or university presidents, chancellors and deans based on outstanding academic performance, character and demonstrated leadership honoring the legacy of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Candidates must be African American, must attend an accredited four-year, degreegranting HBCU or PBI and must have high academic performance leading to their campus’ eligibility for earning the designation of cum laude, magna cum laude or summa cum laude upon undergraduate graduation. Awardees may use the scholarship to pay off outstanding undergraduate educational costs at their current institutions or to finance additional degrees, professional certifications and continuing education programs. Nominations for the 2017 awards will open in January for 87 eligible

HBCUs and PBIs. The award amounts for selected scholars will be between $2,000 and $5,000. Jasmine Bogan is a 2016 graduate of Fayetteville State University with a degree in biology. She is currently pursuing her masters in animal science at Fort Valley State University and will use the Achievement Capstone award to attend her dream school–UNCF-member institution Tuskegee University–to become a veterinarian. “A lot of people aren’t able to receive financial assistance to make it through college, especially for graduate studies,” said Bogan. “Grad students are still students and we still need help. This award will truly help me out a lot.” “For more than 72 years, UNCF has worked to get students to and through college, and awards more than $100 million in scholarships

annually,” said Larry Griffith, UNCF senior vice president of scholarships and programs. “This program further expands UNCF’s reach to African American students across the country who will benefit from the honor, recognition and financial assistance accompanying these prestigious awards upon earning their bachelor’s degree.” “NMSC is proud to partner with UNCF to carry on the name and legacy of the National Achievement Scholarship Program through the newly established UNCF Achievement Capstone Program,” said Timothy McGuire, President and CEO of NMSC. “We are thrilled to join with UNCF in honoring the inaugural class of UNCF Achievement Capstone Scholars, and we look forward to witnessing their continued successes and ongoing accomplishments well into the future.”

VIRTUAL WEBINAR ON BLACK FEMALE ENTRPRENEURSHIP

Join the Walkers Legacy Foundation and the White House Initiative on historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for a virtual webinar on fostering a culture of entrepreneurship for college-age women. This session will provide a discussion of research on Black Female Entrepreneurship: Past and Present Conditions released by Walker’s Legacy in conjunction with the National Women’s Business Council and an overview of Walker’s Legacy Foundation’s newly formed Collegiate Chapter programming.

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January 19, 2017 - January 25, 2017

The session takes place on Thursday, January 12, 2017 at 1:30PM ET. Persons interested in participating should RSVP to: http://www. walkerslegacy.com/calender/

The Walker’s Legacy Foundation is guided by the philanthropic legacy of Madam C. J. Walker and her cause of economic empowerment for women funded through her entrepreneurial successes. The organization is missioned to provide a foundation of entrepreneurial, financial and professional support to improve the economic equality and entrepreneurial prosperity of women of color.

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NEWS “BLACK WOMEN IN MEDICINE SHOWS #WHATADOCTORLOOKSLIKE

in minority communities across the United States.”

Hailed as “inspiring” by the Los Angeles Times, Crystal R. Emery’s documentary Black Women in Medicine premieres on WORLD Channel on Wednesday, February 8, at 6 p.m. and reairs at 9 p.m. (check local listings). This moving portrait captures the tenacious women who have succeeded against all odds in the male-dominated medical field. A timely film, the work serves as an answer to two separate incidents last fall when airline crews seeking in-flight medical attention for passengers assumed that Black women offering help could not possibly be physicians, giving rise to the viral #whatadoctorlookslike hashtag. The film is presented by series distributor American Public Television (APT).

Airing during Black History Month, Black Women in Medicine showcases rarely seen footage of Black women practicing medicine during critical operations, emergency room urgent care and community wellness sessions. From Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first Black woman to receive a degree in medicine, in 1864, to current-day trailblazers like Dr. Joycelyn Elders, the first African-American U.S. Surgeon General, and Dr. Jennifer Ellis, one of only six black female cardiothoracic surgeons in America, the film demonstrates the heights one can attain with determination. Written, directed and produced by Emery, Black Women in Medicine is part of the

filmmaker’s groundbreaking initiative to help increase the number of Black doctors in the United States from 4.5 percent in 2016 to 7 percent by 2030. To that end, in 2016 Emery launched a national campaign, “Changing the Face of Medicine,” together with Elders. “We all must challenge the status quo by replacing the false and debasing historical narrative regarding race, ethnicity and gender with positive, empowering images of real women making a difference,” says Emery. “My goal with Black Women in Medicine is to illuminate the issues and inspire a new generation of women of color to become doctors, as well as to help build a legacy for increasing access to healthcare

Emery, a quadriplegic, has triumphed over two chronic diseases to become an outspoken voice on the intersection between race, gender and disability. She is the founder and CEO of URU, The Right to Be, Inc., a nonprofit content production company that tackles social issues via film, theater, publishing and other arts-based initiatives. Emery’s work has been recognized by the Congressional Black Caucus with the Health Brain Trust Award in Journalism. She is the author of Against All Odds: Celebrating Black Women in Medicine, an illustrated coffeetable book profiling more than 100 spectacular physicians that is a companion piece to the film. “American Public Television is proud to bring the groundbreaking documentary Black Women in Medicine to public television viewers. These are bold women whose stories need to be told, and who inspire us all with their determination and achievements,” said Judy Barlow, APT’s VP Business Development. Black Women in Medicine was produced by Crystal R. Emery and Ted Maynard and with the generous support of Guru Madeleine, Roslyn Meyer and JoAnn H. Price. For more information, visit www. ChangingtheFaceofMedicine. org.

CULINARY TASTE EVENT FROM THE AFRICAN DIASPORA

The Foundation for Rural and Economic Development in Africa invites you to come out and enjoy a celebration of the African Diaspora, featuring cuisine representing several African and Caribbean countries. The evening will also feature fashion, poetry and music. The event is entitled: African Diaspora Banquet and Cultural Night, and features a buffet of different ethnic cuisines, a fashion show of African attires, a poetry reading, and music representing Africa. The evening is intended to celebrate the best of the African Diaspora cuisine and culture.

The event takes place on Friday, February 17, 2017 from 6 - 11 p.m. at the Hollywood Rotary Club, located at 2349 Taylor Street, Hollywood, FL 33020. Tickets are available online 10 NewYorkTrendnyc

by visiting https://diasporabanquet. eventbrite.com. Sponsorship opportunities are also available by contcating Dr. Jong-Ebot at (305) 469-1882. The event, a signature fundraising initiative, is organized by the Foundation for Rural and Economic Development in Africa.

The Foundation for Rural and Economic Development in Africa (www.fredia.org), a 501c3 organization, is dedicated to connecting the outside world, including the African Diaspora, with Africa; building collaborative professional networks; and preserving our culture. It is dedicated to supporting change and development in various parts of Africa January 19, 2017 - January 25, 2017

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ENDNOTES

TICKETS ON SALE FOR NYC BROADWAY WEEK

NYC & Company, New York City’s official destination marketing organization, has announced that tickets are on sale for NYC Broadway WeekSM and the firstever NYC Attractions WeekSM, both of which offer a two-for-one ticket deal. New Yorkers and visitors who take advantage of these programs will receive discounts when seeing a live Broadway performance or

visiting a classic NYC attraction January 17 through February 5. Launched in January 2011, the biannual NYC Broadway Week promotion will return this winter with 19 participating Broadway shows. Featured among those are the buzzworthy new musicals A Bronx Tale and Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812, and iconic shows such as The Lion King

and Wicked. Tickets will go on sale starting after 10:30 a.m. today at nycgo.com/broadwayweek. Since its inception, NYC Broadway Week has sold 944,615 tickets and has generated $63.7 million in revenue. The first-ever NYC Attractions Week will offer New Yorkers and visitors discounted admission to popular attractions, tours, culture and performing arts at

74 participants across all five boroughs, including Gray Line CitySightseeing New York Bus Tours, Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, New York Water Taxi, On Location Tours, Madame Tussauds New York, Brooklyn Museum, Museum of Modern Art, One World Observatory, The Bronx Zoo, and more. For a full list of participants and tickets, visit nycgo.com/attractionsweek.

NIKKI BEHARIE HAS BEEN TAPPED AS HOST OF “AFROPOP” nation’s public television stations in February 2016.

Beharie is best known for her star turn in the hit Fox TV show Sleepy Hollow and for her for breakout role in director Steve McQueen’s Shame opposite Michael Fassbender.

Acclaimed actress Nikki Beharie will host the ninth season of the enlightening and award-winning public television show AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange. This season, the series presents a slate of documentaries to inspire and uplift, films that show how individuals and groups are positively impacting their communities and families and that capture the importance of home. The program premiered on WORLD Channel at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Monday, January 16—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day—with new episodes airing weekly through February 15. AfroPoP is produced by National Black Programming Consortium program and copresented by series distributor American Public Television (APT). APT will release the series to the NewYorkTrendnyc

Previous hosts of AfroPoP, which has been revealing fascinating stories on contemporary life, art and culture in the African Diaspora since 2008, include Idris Elba, Anika Noni Rose, Wyatt Cenac, Gabourey Sidibe, Anthony Mackie, Yaya DaCosta and Jussie Smollett. “NBPC has been so fortunate to have had great hosts bring their fame to the show and either watch the series or really support the mission of the program,” said NBPC Director of Programs and Acquisitions and AfroPoP Executive Producer Kay Shaw. “Nikki Beharie does both! She was a very informed and engaged host, which comes through every episode.” The five-week series travels from North America to Africa to the Caribbean and back again, taking viewers on a journey of hope throughout the Diaspora. Episodes include: George Potter and Andy Adkins’ gripping An American Ascent (January 16) highlighted the first AfricanAmerican team of climbers as they attempt to summit Denali, North

America’s highest peak, challenging their personal limits as well as society’s notions of what a mountaineer looks like.

The moving Intore, by Eric Kabera (January 23), demonstrates the impact a new generation of artists in Rwanda is having in healing a nation that suffered greatly in the horrific 100-day genocide in 1994. Tyler Johnston and Miquel Galofré’s beautiful My Father’s Land (January 30) follows an illegal immigrant in the Bahamas and the lengths to which he goes to return to his native Haiti to see his ailing 103-year-old father, while exploring issues of immigration and human rights. Eva Weber’s important documentary Black Out (February 6) shines the spotlight on schoolchildren in Guinea who trek for miles each day during exam season to find places with light so they can study and better themselves and their families. Black Out will air with Olivia Peace’s narrative short Pangaea, a moving story of a young girl who was trapped on a rooftop after Hurricane Katrina. The series finale is the heartwarming Omo Child: The River and the Bush by John Rowe (February 13) which shows the positive impact one determined individual can have on his community to save lives. Shot over five

January 19, 2017 - January 25, 2017

years, the film follows Lale Labuko, from the Kara tribe in the Om33o Valley, Ethiopia, as he works to create a cultural shift in his tribe by ending an ancient practice that will save a generation of children. “This season of AfroPoP features compelling programs from both the U.S. and around the globe. We look forward to sharing these stories with American audiences,” said APT Director Business Development & International Sales Tom Davison. “More than ever before, AfroPoP’s captivating look into the diverse stories of African Disapora are important and relevant. WORLD Channel is excited to be the first to bring the new season of AfroPoP to US audiences,” said WORLD Channel Executive Producer Chris Hastings. “Viewers may find that the cultural experiences shown through each film are similar to their own personal journeys.” AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange is produced by Angela Tucker and directed by Duana Butler with the generous support of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and National Endowment for the Arts. To find out more about AfroPoP, visit www.blackpublicmedia. org. For viewing info, check local listings or www.APTonline.org. www.newyorktrendnyc.com 11

For the 1 in 5 kids with learning and attention issues, every day can be a challenge. Explore Understood.org, a free online resource designed to help you help your child thrive in school and in life. Brought to you by 15 nonprofit partners.

understood.org 12 NewYorkTrendnyc

January 19, 2017 - January 25, 2017