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VOLUME 27 ISSUE 29
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MAYOR ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN Mayor Bill de Blasio, the Public Design Commission President Signe Nielsen and Executive Director of the Commission Justin Moore today announced the winners of the Annual Awards for Excellence in Design. Every year, the City’s Design Commission selects and honors public projects across the five boroughs that exemplify how innovative and thoughtful design can provide New Yorkers with the best possible public spaces and services and engender a sense of civic pride. This year’s honorees span diverse fields and range from small-scale to large, including the opening of Dock 72 in Brooklyn to the citywide, technological milestone LinkNYC. Additionally, projects such as the Snug Harbor Cultural Center Music Hall Addition and The High Line Park Passage and Spur will allow for more cultural exchange and recreational opportunities for residents. This year’s honorees help prepare New York City to thrive in the 21st century, from technological connectivity to business development to expanded areas for exercise and improved health. “The winners of this year’s Excellence in Design Awards highlight NYC’s dedication to providing a wide range of design and public spaces that speak to the modern day New Yorker and meet the needs of a large, active and diverse city,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Today, we are here to honor and to celebrate the work of these innovators, who have invested in creating inclusive public projects across the five boroughs.” “These thoughtful and innovative designs support the de Blasio Administration’s commitment to
providing quality, equitable, and resilient public spaces to all New Yorkers. By utilizing good design principles, these projects will provide the public with increased access to the waterfront, open spaces and parks; improved places for play and community gatherings; and inspiring artworks,” said Public Design Commission President Signe Nielsen. “Part of what makes our city great is the quality of our public realm and the creativity and ingenuity found in our design community and city agencies. These awardwinning projects range from new technologies to improved neighborhood parks and public
artwork. They show that design excellence is an important part of New York’s leadership in promoting innovation, sustainability, and equity in cities,” said Public Design Commission Executive Director Justin Moore. THE PUBLIC DESIGN COMMISSION The Public Design Commission reviews permanent works of architecture, landscape architecture, and art proposed on or over Cityowned property. The Commission comprises 11 members, including an architect, landscape architect, painter, sculptor, and three lay members, as well as representatives of the Brooklyn Museum,
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Public Library, and the Mayor. Members of the Commission serve pro bono and meet once per month. Projects are submitted by City agencies and include the construction, renovation, or restoration of buildings and other structures; the creation or rehabilitation of parks, playgrounds, and plazas; installation of lighting and other streetscape elements; signage; and the installation and conservation of artwork and memorials. The Commission has been honoring these projects annually since 1983.
INSIDE T HIS IS SUE :
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Helping women and girls to excel and be empowered is the focal point of all services created and provided by Women Grow Strong, Inc.
This non-profit community organization, founded by Bernadette Morris, CEO of Sonshine Communications and Black PR Wire, Inc. helps females build, grow and develop their skillset to the fullest. The organization provides empowerment training programs and services in an engaging, exciting and meaningful way. Women Grow Strong is one of many organizations accepting contributions during The Miami Foundation’s “Give Miami Day!” Portions of those contributions received - as little as $25 - is matched by The Miami Foundation.
• Refresh & Renew – One of the organization’s newest sessions on releasing strongholds to restore one’s purpose and selfworth in life • Fit for a Queen – WINGS’ premiere and most popular session where leaders provide training programs on food, fitness, finances, and fashion.
Women Grow Strong has assisted and supported countless family crisis and emergencies, burials, clothing for kids, school supplies and so much more. In addition, the organization has developed training programs to help women handle everyday requirements in life. This includes balancing a check book, healthy cooking, balancing work, home and exercise and much more.
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“Every penny is used to help women and girls in need,” say Bernadette Morris. “Funds raised during Give Miami Day will allow us to provide FREE training sessions to women who otherwise could not afford it, but need the service and the help.” Some of WINGS’ stellar programs include: • Boardroom Basics – Helping women start and grow a business
Women Grow Strong, Inc. is a not-for-profit women and young adult support group that provides training, counseling, development and discipleship. WINGS helps to sow seeds of mercy, grace, provision and love into the hearts and souls of women seeking empowerment, self esteem and confidence. For more information on Women Grow Strong, its services and how to secure the CEO for speaking engagements, contact Patricia Allen at (305) 948-8063 or email Bernadette at bmorris@ womengrowstrong.com.
WHERE CAN TECHNOLOGY TAKE YOU?
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IN THE NATION IN PRODUCING
THE HIGHEST PAID ASSOCIATE-DEGREE EARNING
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) has risen to the No. 7 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Historically Black Colleges and Universities” list. Climbing three spots, the ranking reveals FAMU as No. 1 among public HBCUs and among the “Best National Universities.” FAMU’s 2017 ranking surpassed last year’s No. 10 listing. The University’s ascension comes at no surprise as the rankings’ key measurements include graduation and retention rates – a primary focus of President Elmira Mangum’s administration. Other measures include peer assessment, faculty resources, student selectivity, and financial resources. 2
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GRADUATES
According to Dr. Mangum, FAMU earning a 4.1 out of 5 for its peer assessment is a testament to FAMU’s strong reputation among the HBCU community.
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“Moving from No. 10 to No. 7 is validation that FAMU is, in fact, moving forward,” Mangum said. “This ranking is the highest we’ve achieved on the U.S. News Best HBCU list in recent history, and I believe it speaks volumes that the work we are doing is being recognized.” U.S. News has earned a reputation as the leading provider of service news and information that improves the quality of life of its readers by focusing on health, personal finances, education, and more.
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NEWS
MEMORIAL SERVICE HELD FOR JOURNALIST GWEN IFILL
NEW YORK TRENDNYC Owner/Publisher Executive Editor Editor-in-Chief Dr. Teresa Taylor Williams
Online Editorial Director Rachel Breton Hamlett Art Director Allison Burris
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Social Media Zoie A. Williams
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VOLUME 27 ISSUE 29
T:4.75”
THE WORST THING YOU CAN DO IF YOU THINK YOU SMELL A GAS LEAK IS NOTHING.
T
railblazing journalist Gwen Ifill was remembered at a pair of events this past weekend at Metropolitan A.M.E. Church, 1518 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20005.
Community Tributes: Friday, November 18, 2016 6 PM - 10 PM Family, friends and colleagues gathered at Metropolitan AME NewYorkTrendnyc
Service of Celebration: Saturday, November 19, 2016 11 AM
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Ifill, a Metropolitan member since 1989, passed away Monday at 61. She was the co-anchor and managing editor of the PBS NewsHour and moderator of WashingtonWeek with Gwen Ifill, the longest-running primetime news and public affairs program on television. A lifelong AME, she is the sister of Presiding Elder Rev. Earle Ifill, president of the Connectional Presiding Elder’s Council, and Presiding Elder of the Atlanta East District-Atlanta North Georgia Conference of the AME Church’s Sixth Episcopal District.
Church for community tributes to Ifill. The Rev. Dr. Ronald E. Braxton, Presiding Elder of the Potomac District, Washington Conference and a former pastor of Metropolitan, will preside over the tributes.
The Rt. Rev. William P. DeVeaux, retired AME Church Bishop and a former pastor of Metropolitan, presided. The family requested in lieu of flowers that donations be made to establish a Memorial Scholarship fund at Metropolitan AME Church. Checks should be made payable to: Metropolitan AME Church, memo line: “In memory of Gwen Ifill.” Mail to: Metropolitan A.M.E. Church 1518 M Street, NW Washington, DC 20005 or Rev. Earle Ifill, P. O. Box 92485 Atlanta, GA 30314 Cards and messages of condolence may be sent to the address above. November 24, 2016 - November 30, 2016
Smell gas. Act fast. Don’t assume someone else will call 911 or 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633). Leave the area immediately and make the call yourself. You can report a gas-related emergency anonymously, and not even be there when help arrives. For more gas safety information, visit conEd.com and take safety into your own hands.
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LOCAL NEWS
FREE SHUTTLE WILL CONNECT ROCKAWAY RESIDENTS WITH CITYWIDE FERRY SERVICE New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has announced details for the Rockaway Shuttle, a free bus service that will connect residents with the Citywide Ferry Service launching in summer 2017. The eastbound and westbound shuttle routes each span four miles, connecting the ferry terminal at Beach 108th Street with Beach 35th Street to the east, and Beach 169th Street to the west. The routes were developed based on a yearlong community engagement effort, which included community board meetings, elected-official-led town halls and civic organization events. The shuttle stops, which are currently under final review by the Department of Transportation, are in close proximity to densely populated areas and NYCHA developments, delivering on Mayor de Blasio’s commitment to create an equitable and accessible ferry service. Citywide Ferry will carry an estimated 4.6 million passenger trips per year across six routes, providing new transportation to communities where housing and jobs are growing rapidly. 19 vessels will be operating at 21 landings throughout New York City, providing an affordable transit option for people in underserved communities and connecting New Yorkers with the city’s hundreds of miles of waterfront. More information on Citywide Ferry
Service is available at www. citywideferry.nyc. “Mayor de Blasio is launching Citywide Ferry Service to bring an equitable and accessible transit option to neighborhoods like the Rockaways that have long been cut off from other parts of our city,” said NYCEDC President Maria Torres-Springer. “We were proud to partner with the community and local leaders to develop a shuttle service that will help even more Rockaway residents access the ferry, and connect to good jobs and opportunities throughout the five boroughs. I want to thank Council Member Richards in particular for his leadership on this effort and for continuing to ensure that the needs of the community are met through City services like the Rockaway Shuttle.” “The announcement about the ferry service returning to the
Rockaways in 2017 was exciting news for the transit-starved peninsula, but the original shuttle proposal ending at Beach 65th Street prevented many east end residents from seeing it as a viable option,” said Council Member Donovan Richards (D-Far Rockaway). “Thankfully, the extension announced today will allow residents as far east as Beach 35th Street to utilize the ferry service, which will help alleviate the crowded A train and improve transportation access for the majority of peninsula residents. I’d like to thank Mayor de Blasio, EDC President and CEO Torres-Springer and Hornblower for improving the shuttle service for the better of the Rockaways.” “With the extension of the shuttle bus at both ends of the Rockaway Peninsula, even more Rockaway residents and future visitors will be
able to enjoy the newest way to Work, Live, Play once Citywide Ferry becomes operational,” said Cameron Clark, Senior Vice President of Hornblower and Project Manager of Citywide Ferry. “Hornblower is excited to bring its strong history of reliable service and its culture of warm hospitality to the Rockaways as the first route to launch next summer, and we are committed to growing the service, supporting local businesses and becoming a part of the Rockaway fabric for years to come.” “Commuters and visitors alike will soon have an accessible transit option to and from the Rockaways. The Rockaway Shuttle routes were designed in large part by a robust, year-long engagement with the community – including Community Board 14 and Rockaway Peninsula civic leaders – and we thank them for their time, commitment and insights. The new free Rockaway Shuttle will help enhance equitable access to and from neighborhoods at both ends of the peninsula to the long-awaited Citywide Ferry Service,” said Queens Borough President Melinda Katz. “It is with great optimism that I work with the NYC EDC on resolving the decades old issue of the need to improve transportation in Rockaway by providing a credible, full-time ferry service. I know my constituents are counting on this service for occupational and economic reasons,” said NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr.
FIRST HBCU TO WIN NATIONAL ACADEMIC LIBRARY
The Atlanta University Center (AUC) Robert W. Woodruff Library is the winner of the 2016 ACRL Excellence in Academic Libraries Award. This is the first time that a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Library has received this national honor.
“This award is a stamp of recognition to the staff here and the programs we offer our students” says Loretta Parham, CEO and Library Director.“This brings an immense endorsement to the level of education that is provided at the AUC, it proves that an HBCU can bring as much value, and expertise as a library at a predominantly white institution. And we do it with much fewer resources.” The AUC Woodruff Library competed against hundreds of national university libraries. After a competitive selection process, the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) and YBP 4
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destination in the academic village. “Each year we continue to see the ‘Club Woody’ definition evolve,” chuckles Parham. “We’re not offended by that title at all. People give nicknames to things that are near and dear to their heart. This is a welcoming space where students can visit with their friends, meet for classes, work on projects, engage in educational activities, and discuss social and political issues” she adds.
Library Services, selected the AUC Woodruff Library as its winner, recognizing the library’s staff, programs and resources which further the educational missions of the institutions they serve. The Atlanta University Center Woodruff Library serves the students and faculty at Clark Atlanta University, the Interdenominational Theological Center, Morehouse College and Spelman College. “While many academic libraries are challenged
by relationships with one group of administrators, faculty, and students, the Atlanta University Center manages to effectively support the teaching, learning and research at four different institutions, deftly managing those relationships,” says Trevor Dawes, chair of the 2016 Excellence in Academic Libraries Committee. Fondly known as “Club Woody” to its students and alumni, the AUC Woodruff library is heralded as a safe learning and social
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The AUC Woodruff Library has holdings of over 1.5 million items in all formats, and its Archives Research Center is a well-known destination for the preservation and documentation of African American history and culture. It houses items from the historic Morehouse College Martin Luther King Jr. Papers, the Asa G. Hilliard Collection, the Walter Rodney Collection, the C. Eric Lincoln Collection and the Tupac Shakur Collection. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
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NO ONE GETS A DIPLOMA ALONE.
If you’re thinking of finishing your high school diploma, you have more support than you realize. Find free adult education classes near you by texting FINISH to 97779 or by visiting FinishYourDiploma.org. NewYorkTrendnyc
November 24, 2016 - November 30, 2016
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NYC POLITICS
UPSTANDER AWARDS HELD AT GRACIE MANSION
goal of having a Center in every borough of the city. Family Justice Centers are walk-in centers that provide free and confidential assistance to victims of intimate partner violence, sex trafficking and elder abuse, regardless of income, language, immigration status, gender identity or sexual orientation. On-site services provided by community partners include: case management, risk assessment, safety planning, family law and immigration legal services, counseling for adults and children, self-sufficiency and economic empowerment classes and programming, NYPD Domestic Violence Prevention Officers (DVPOs) and Assistant District Attorney’s from the District Attorney’s Office. In 2015, there were over 59,000 client visits to the Family Justice Centers throughout New York City.
Mayor Bill de Blasio, First Lady Chirlane McCray and Office to Combat Domestic Violence Commissioner Cecile Noel host the City’s 3rd annual Upstander Awards at Gracie Mansion. The Upstander Awards salute New Yorkers who, along with the Administration, have taken an active role in helping the City to raise awareness about domestic violence. “Domestic violence often takes place behind closed doors, but its impact reverberates to every member of our NYC family. When a woman, man or child is put in danger by their family or loved one, we all need to stand up and speak out,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “This year we recognize New Yorkers who are Upstanders: individuals and groups that have dedicated themselves to combatting violence, raising awareness and supporting survivors.” “Every day, the NYPD gets roughly 800 calls about domestic violence. And that’s only a fraction of the true number, because so many people are afraid to report their abuser. In order to reduce the violence, we must get to the very root of the problem,” said First Lady Chirlane McCray. “We must teach our young people better models of interaction, which we are doing through our Healthy Relationship training workshops, and by supporting survivors so that no woman remains with her abuser because she doesn’t have another choice. Today we recognize five honorees who have taken those messages to heart. I’m proud to stand alongside these dedicated, talented and fierce advocates to 6
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renew our call to stand up, speak out and make change to end domestic violence.”
• Offer unconditional support to someone who has experienced violence.
Domestic violence occurs in every neighborhood and community in New York City regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation. Awareness is the greatest tool we have, which is why OCDV wants every New Yorker to understand that he or she plays a role in combatting domestic violence.
• Speak up against statements that promote violence.
The Upstander Campaign was launched to inspire New Yorkers to move from being bystanders to domestic violence to being Upstanders, focusing on the idea that everyone plays a role in preventing intimate partner violence. This public awareness campaign was featured in taxi cabs and online, and is one component of an ongoing campaign to raise awareness and bring an end to domestic violence in New York City. To become an Upstander against domestic violence, the City encourages New Yorkers to: • Recognize and speak out against intimate partner violence, gender injustice and all forms of abuse.
• Get help from an expert, advocate, or other professional. • Help share resources with those who need help: NYC DV Hotline 1-800-621-4673; 911 in emergencies; for information and connection to services, call 311 and ask for OCDV’s Family Justice Centers. OCDV wants all New Yorkers to know that there is help. OCDV is the City government’s hub for Citywide delivery of domestic violence services, development of policies and programs and work with diverse communities in the five boroughs to increase awareness. Through a robust outreach effort, OCDV is able to connect victims to critical services through the City’s Family Justice Centers and other key stakeholders. This past summer, the City opened the doors to the Family Justice Center in Staten Island, completing the Administration’s
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Along with opening the City’s fifth Family Justice Center this summer, OCDV also unveiled its Policy and Training Institute, which will assist City agencies and community-based organizations in reviewing and updating their domestic violence policies, and providing tailored trainings for their staff. Included within the Institute is the NYC Healthy Relationship Training Academy which last year conducted over 300 workshops and trained almost 7,000 youth, parents and organizational staff about what a healthy relationship consists of and looks like. This year, as part of the Academy, OCDV also introduced the Creating Awareness about Relationship Equality (CARE) Program, which will bring our trainings to the over 5,000 youth in the City’s foster care system, giving them the tools they need to build healthy relationships. The Upstander Awards remind New Yorkers that everyone plays a role in ending domestic violence. From global leaders to local media, all of the honorees are taking a stand against domestic violence in New York City. The five honorees at the award ceremony include: The Color Purple The Musical, the NYC Anti-Violence Project, New York City Sheriff Joseph Fucito, Judge Toko Serita of the Queens Human Trafficking Intervention Court, and Huffington Post senior reporter Melissa Jeltsen. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
NEW YORK NEWS
‘I GOT MY FLU SHOT…NOT THE FLU!’ CAMPAIGN Simpson and Associate Pastor Reverend Samuel Phillips III.
The Health Department has launched a public awareness campaign, “I Got My Flu Shot… Not the Flu,” reminding New Yorkers that the flu vaccine is the best protection against influenza and its terrible symptoms. Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory viral illness that can cause significant illness and death. More New Yorkers die from influenza and pneumonia than from any other infection. In 2014, 2,220 New Yorkers died from influenza and pneumonia. About 90 percent of influenza-related deaths are among people aged 65 years and older. Influenza activity is usually at its peak from January through
March, but it can start as early as November and continue through the late spring. It is important to get vaccinated now – before influenza season starts. The campaign will feature four English and two Spanish ads, which will run in subway cars. The campaign will also have a social media component. The agency’s Health Bulletin on flu and other influenza information is available in more than 10 languages and can be found by visiting nyc.gov and searching for “health bulletins.” At the Concord Baptist Church of Christ Health in Brooklyn, Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett was joined by Senior Pastor Reverend Gary V.
“Flu activity remains low in New York City, making now the best time to get your flu vaccine from your doctor or a nearby pharmacy,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “The flu, combined with pneumonia – a common complication of influenza – is the third leading cause of preventable death in NYC. Many neighborhoods, including BedfordStuyvesant where we launched the campaign today, have low vaccination rates. The vaccine is safe and does not cause the flu, and best of all, it can prevent the horrible symptoms of influenza.” “Getting a flu shot is not only important for the health of individual New Yorkers, but for the health of all our communities,” said Public Advocate Letitia James. “Studies have shown that receiving an annual flu shot can reduce your risk of getting the flu by up to 60 percent and can mitigate the severity of many of the symptoms associated with getting the flu. This year and every year, I urge all New
Yorkers to get a flu shot, as it is the best way to protect yourself and to prevent the spread of the flu.” “I thank DOHMH Commissioner Bassett for highlighting the challenges our borough faces during flu season, as well as how vaccination can make a meaningful difference in the health of all Brooklynites, particularly seniors,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams. “There are a countless number of convenient locations across Brooklyn to get the vaccine, so everybody has access to this key for unlocking a healthier winter.” While annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all people aged six months and older, it is especially recommended for those at risk of developing influenzarelated complications. Those at risk include: children under five, pregnant women, people with diabetes, chronic heart conditions and those over 65 years of age. Health care workers and people who live or work with people at high risk of influenza complications also need a flu vaccine to avoid infecting others.
Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. PLAY. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send. Type. Refresh. Send.
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ENTERTAINMENT #SOULTRAINAWARDS CENTRIC AND BET NOVEMBER 27 AT 8 P.M. ET
SOUL TRAIN AWARDS 2016 took place on Sunday, November 6 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas. The godmother of soul, Erykah Badu, returned to the stage as host, and for the first time as Executive Producer, with her eccentric humor and legendary style. The annual event honoring the best in soul and R&B featured moving performances by Brandy, Anderson .Paak, Bobby Brown, D.R.A.M. MA$E, DRU HILL, Doug E Fresh, India Arie, BJ The Chicago Kid, Guy, Candice Boyd, Carl Thomas, Eric Benét, MAJOR., Ro James, Tito Jackson, V. Bozeman, Wreckx-nEffect, and Yuna.
GRAMMY award-winning, multiplatinum singer Brandy was presented with the second annual Lady of Soul Award, while multiplatinum and three-time GRAMMY award-winning producer, singer and songwriter Teddy Riley was honored with the night’s highly coveted Legend Award. The 2016 Soul Train Awards kicked off with Dru Hill, who got the party started with an amazing medley of 90s R&B jams including “Tell Me,” “In My Bed,” and “Beauty.” Dru Hill’s lead singer
Sisqó then performed his megahit “Thong Song,” getting the entire crowd up out of their seats - including Teyana Taylor who knew every word! Erykah Badu, ever the ethereal visionary, made her grand entrance during a glow-in-thedark performance followed by her laugh-out-loud futuristic opening monologue where she touched on everything from Trump to alien life. The Queen of Soul revealed her recent time traveling adventures, saying “The future is black; forget the Jetsons, it’ll be more like the Jeffersons.” In addition to her
hosting duties, Erykah also hit the stage to perform. First with singer/ rapper D.R.A.M., performing their recently released song, “WiFi.” and later bringing out her “sister of soul”, India Arie, to sing their spirited, message-driven song “Breathe.” For the second year, the awards unveiled a powerful “Soul Cypher” featuring a mix of legendary and contemporary R&B and soul singers coming together. Badu DJed the cypher while Tyrese, Ne-Yo, Angie Stone and the Empress of Soul, Gladys Knight performed raw versions of their songs.
Brandy was presented with the Lady of Soul Award following a heartfelt speech from 2015 honoree Jill Scott and a special tribute video from industry’s top executives and artists such as Kenny “BabyFace” Edmonds, Jazmine Sullivan, Jhene Aiko and more, who spoke to Brandy’s dedication, creativity and vocal prowess. Brandy then blew the crowd away with a full dance and stunning vocal performance of her most beloved hits including “Almost Doesn’t Count,” “What About Us,” “Full Moon,” “I Wanna Be Down,” “The Boy Is Mine,” “Talk About Our Love,” “Have You Ever,” and “Sitting On Top Of The World,” joined by MA$E. Cedric ‘The Entertainer’ presented Teddy Riley with the night’s highly regarded Legend Award honoring the prolific singer-songwriter and producer for his tremendous influence in soul culture and music. Teddy Riley was welcomed to the stage with a standing ovation and roaring round of applause. He celebrated with R&B and soul superstars Bobby Brown, Doug E. Fresh, Guy, Wreckx-N-Effect, V. Bozeman and Tito Jackson.
BON JOVI “THIS HOUSE IS NOT FOR SALE” chart this year. Ahead of the release, the band performed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and announced their upcoming tour and invited ABC’s Good Morning America to New Jersey for a special performance broadcast.
Magazine covers around the world have celebrated Jon Bon Jovi as an extraordinary public figure, including Billboard and People in the US; the Big Issue, Sunday Mail and Vanity Fair Italy; Burrn! Magazine and Muse Clip (Japan); Fairfax Magazine (Australia); SZ Magazine (Germany); and SonntagsBlick Magazine (Switzerland).
Bon Jovi’s This House Is Not For Sale is out today on Island/ UMG and is already #1 in twenty territories and Top Five in more than fifty on iTunes. It celebrates the Grammy-Award winning act’s triumphant statement of integrity as one of rock’s biggest bands presents new anthems 8
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to the world, now available at iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon, GooglePlay, Spotify, Tidal, Target, among other retailers. Title track, “This House is Not For Sale,” is a hit on the AC Radio Chart as one of the fastest climbing Top Ten singles on that
Throughtout October, four intimate TIDAL X: Bon Jovi live listening parties at intimate venues presented the album front-to-back for fans in Red Bank NJ, London UK, Toronto ON, and New York City. Fans can stream seven bonus songs from the new album on TIDAL.com/BonJovi, including “Real Love”, “All Hail The King”, “We Don’t Run”, “I Will Drive You Home”, “Goodnight New York”,
November 24, 2016 - November 30, 2016
“Color Me In” and “Touch Of Grey.” Non-members can sign up for a complimentary 90-day trial at TIDAL.com/BonJoviFans. Reviews proved Bon Jovi is better than ever as they dominate their third decade: • ASSOCIATED PRESS - Bon Jovi is still making hit records: title track “This House Is Not for Sale” is as good a song as Jon Bon Jovi has ever written. • BILLBOARD - “Bon Jovi opened his soul on record and in the live setting with a fascinating display of honesty and an inside look into what inspired the lyrics, music & story behind This House is Not for Sale.” • USA TODAY – “Nobody writes rock anthems like Jon Bon Jovi.” “It says something about his skill set, 30-plus years into his career, that he was able to play a concert consisting of brand-new songs… and have audiences pumping their fists, clapping and hopping up and down as if he was doing a “greatest hits” show.” www.newyorktrendnyc.com
THE ARTS “ART’S CONSCIENCE II” AT INTERCHURCH CENTER GALLERY
A who’s who of top artists of color will be on hand as the Mackey Twins Art Gallery presents “Art’s Conscience II” at the Interchurch Center Gallery in Manhattan. The exhibit will include the works of Xenobia Bailey, Betty Blayton, Stacey Brown, Leroy Campbell, Demetric Denmark, James Denmark, Essud Fungcap, Magno Laracuente, Ruth Miller, Charly Palmer and TWIN and run from October 31 through November 30. Opening Night will be celebrated from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, November 11, and include an Artists’ Talk at 6:30 p.m. sharp. Those participating in the Artists’ Talk on Opening Night include Bailey, Brown, James Denmark, Fungcap, Laracuente, Miller and Palmer. The event will be moderated by Diedra HarrisKelley, co-director of the Romare Bearden Foundation. HarrisKelley is also a historian, writer and formally trained artist. In April 2013, the Gallery, the largest collection of exclusive works of artists of color in the tristate area, presented “Art’s Conscience” at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. November’s exhibition continues and expands on that theme. “The Conscience becomes the ‘soul’ in the matter of creating and collecting. The responsibility rests on both parties,” said Sharon Mackey, who, together with her identical twin sister, Karen, founded the Mackey Twins Art Gallery to develop art collectors of color while promoting the works by artists of color to all audiences. “Understanding the artist’s style process is critical.” NewYorkTrendnyc
throughout the country. She was one of the founding members of the Studio Museum in Harlem and founder of the Children’s Art Carnival. Blayton was the recipient of the 1984 Empire State Women of the Year in the Arts Award; New York State Governors Art Award; and the 1995 CBS Martin Luther King, Jr., Fulfilling the Dream Award, to name a few. Her vibrant works can be found in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Studio Museum in Harlem, Uniworld Advertising Corporation, Philip Morris Corporation, Fisk University, Spelman College, Virginia State College, Tougaloo College, David Rockefeller, Blanchette Rockefeller, Reginald Lewis, Byron Lewis, and more. Stacey Brown, a resident of Atlanta, Georgia, offers an eclectic collection of original paintings for the contemporary art lover. Born and reared in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, his artistic journey of discovery began with aspirations for a career in graphic design. After graduating from the Art Institute of Atlanta, he embarked on a successful ten-year career in his chosen field, but something was “missing” in his life.
“The artists’ inner struggle is to create, whether it’s safe, unpopular or political. In spite of these challenges, the artists want the collector’s approval,” said Karen Mackey. Clients and supporters of the gallery include Lonette McKee, Khalil Kain, Danny Simmons, Byron and Sylvia Lewis, Lloyd Williams and Voza Rivers, as well as firsttime buyers entering the field and more experienced collectors. The exhibition is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. The Interchurch Center Gallery is located at 475 Riverside Drive (at 120th Street), New York, NY 10115. For more information on the exhibit or Mackey Twins Art Gallery, visit www.mackeytwinsart.com, email mackeytwinsart@gmail.com or call 917-796-5895 or 914-6438266. Follow the gallery on Twitter at @MackeyTwinsArt1 or like it on Facebook at www.facebook. com/MackeyTwinsArtGallery. ABOUT THE ARTISTS Xenobia Bailey is an artist and designer best known for her eclectic
crochet hats and her large-scale crochet pieces and mandalas, consisting of colorful concentric circles and repeating patterns. Her designs are influenced by African, Chinese, Native American and Eastern philosophies, with undertones of the 1970s “Funk” aesthetic. Her hats have been featured in United Color of Benetton ads, on the Cosby Show and in the Spike Lee film “Do the Right Thing.” In 2003, her designs were commemorated in the form of an Absolut Vodka ad entitled “Absolut Bailey.” Her work is in the permanent collections at Harlem’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, the Allentown Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art and in the Museum of Arts and Design. Most recently, some of her crochet work has been transformed into mosaics and is on display at the New York City subway 34th Street-Hudson Yards station.
Leroy Campbell is a self-taught, mixed-media visual artist. Leroy Campbell has painstakingly captured the essence and emotion of god-fearing, self-reliant, proud, and intelligent subjects of his Gullah childhood through acrylic mixed-media collage-on-canvas works that display a deliberate choice of vintage quilted fabrics, news print clippings, burlap, threads, and elements of southern terrain. His works are also displayed in universities, corporations and private collections.
Betty Blayton was an accomplished artist who referred to herself as a “spiritual impressionist.” Her works are on display at major museums and corporations
November 24, 2016 - November 30, 2016
www.newyorktrendnyc.com
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THE ARTS
BLACK WOMEN PRODUCERS SWEEP PITCH PRIZES
Black women won all three prizes in the second annual National Black Programming Consortium (NBPC) Pitch Black Forum, a pitching session in front of panels of industry executives. The winners, who personify #BlackGirlMagic, will each receive between $50,000 and $100,000 from NBPC’s 360 Incubator + Fund to develop their television, web and transmedia series, were announced Friday at a reception in Manhattan at the program’s lead partner, WNET/Thirteen’s Tisch Studios at Lincoln Center. With this program, NBPC, the nation’s only nonprofit dedicated solely to media content about the Black experience, is also helping advance projects by female producers. Hosted by veteran public television executive and producer Donald Thoms, Pitch Black was the culmination of 360’s intensive, six-week boot camp and incubator. Held Thursday at the Jerome L. Greene Performance Space in Manhattan, the event drew public television representatives from CPB, PBS, WNET/Thirteen, POV, SCETV and UNC-TV; executives from Cinereach, Tidal, BET and Third World Newsreel; and representatives from MacArthur Foundation, Ford Foundation and Tribeca Institute. Seven teams competed in the interactive pitching session. Proving that #BlackGirlsRock, winners include: “Saltbox,” a broadcast series by Shirlette Ammons, was awarded $100,000. The show is a hybrid cooking/reality series following former “Iron Chef” contestant Ricky Moore, who moves his wife and two kids from the big city of Washington, D.C., back to his home state of North Carolina. There he turns the gems of his rural raising into an urban culinary enterprise in Durham. “So Young, So Pretty, So White,” a broadcast series by Chanelle Aponte Pearson and Christiana Mbakwe, received $75,000. The show is a window into the often-secret world of skin bleaching, unmasking what drives people to lighten their skin. The series delves into the lives of those who adhere to the practice—the lure of lighter skin and the challenges to sustain it transcend national borders—and exposes multinational corporations who exploit regional discrimination 10 NewYorkTrendnyc
against people with darker skin tones. “Beyond the Book,” a web series by Dominique Taylor and Stephanie Fields, was awarded $50,000. The project blends entertainment and education for adults to continue a love for reading beyond our formative years. This imaginative, intellectual series encourages mature audiences to share the gift of reading with each other. “In recent years, we have seen a number of Black women emerge as producers of highly successful films. With Black women taking the top spots in the 360 Incubator + Fund this year—not by design but by sheer talent—we are excited to be part of this growing movement of Black female voices. That notwithstanding, the jurors still had the very difficult task of selecting the winning projects as they all were amazing,” said NBPC Director of Programs and Acquisitions Kay Shaw. “Although, only three will immediately move forward to the pilot stage, NBPC will continue to work closely with the remaining four deserving projects to find funding and a media home to ensure that these projects also find their way into the marketplace.” Panelists included Pamela A. Aguilar, PBS director of programming, Eric Johnson, VP of Sound + Engagement at Trailblazer Studios, and Jason Samuels, New York University associate professor of journalism and senior consultant for BET (broadcast panel); and
Deniese Davis, COO of Color Creative TV, Dennis Dortch, CEO/ co-founder of Black & Sexy TV, and Eric Freeland, PBS senior director, digital programming (web/ interactive panel). NBPC launched the 360 Incubator + Fund in 2014 to help ready quality content for market. Projects from the inaugural year have been both broadcast and acquired. “My Africa Is” by Nosarieme Garrick and Hassatou Diallo broadcast its pilot’s premiere earlier this year as part of NBPC’s “AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange” public television series; “POPS” by Garland McLaurin will premiere its first season on ITVS’s digital channel and PBS.org in 2017; “Pixie Dust” by Damon Colquhoun and “Street Cred” by Sultan Sharrief are being shopped for distribution. At Friday’s reception NBPC Executive Director Leslie FieldsCruz also announced the formation of the Nonso Christian Ugbode Digital Media Fund, named after the organization’s late NBPC’s Director of Digital Initiatives who died earlier this year. The fund will provide support to digital media projects by creatives under 30. Ugbode’s mother Maryann Ugbode and siblings Munonyedi Ugbode and Nicholas Ugbode were in attendance. “Christian left a profound mark on the work of NBPC and the many producers who sought his advice and guidance as the media landscape changed from analog to digital,” said NBPC Executive Director Leslie Fields-Cruz.
November 24, 2016 - November 30, 2016
“This new fund ensures his legacy continues for generations to come.” The 360 Incubator + Fund was funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the NEA and the New York State Council on the Arts. Partners for 360 include WNET (lead station partner); ITVS; KQED; Writers Guild of America, East; Producers Guild of America/ Diversity Committee; National Minority Consortia; South Carolina ETV; POV; WGBH; WORLD Channel; Silicon Harlem; Third World Newsreel; and the International House. The National Black Programming Consortium (NBPC) is committed to enriching our democracy by educating, enlightening, empowering and engaging the American public. The nonprofit supports diverse voices by developing, producing and distributing innovative media about the Black experience and by investing in visionary content makers. NBPC provides quality content for public media outlets, including, among others, PBS and PBS.org and BlackPublicMedia. org, as well as other platforms, while training and mentoring the next generation of Black filmmakers. Founded in 1979, NBPC produces the “AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange” documentary series and manages the 360 Incubator + Fund, a funding and training initiative designed to accelerate the production of important Black serial and interactive content. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
ENDNOTES
JASON TAYLOR & MIKE POUNCEY HOSTED HEALTHCARE PING-PONG SMASH 13
Jason Taylor, the legendary Miami Dolphins defender, and Mike Pouncey, the Dolphins current Pro Bowl center, renewed their table-tennis rivalry while supporting children in need during the CHG Healthcare JT’s PingPong Smash 13 – Presented by Publix. The football giants were joined at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood by a host of generous community members and some of the Sunshine State’s most recognizable personalities from the worlds of sports and entertainment, with proceeds benefitting the Jason Taylor Foundation and Team Pouncey Foundation.
Billed as the “original, celebritydoubles table tennis tournament,” JT’s Ping-Pong Smash featured 48 duos competing in a fastpaced, round-robin style PingPong tournament, all while utilizing state of the art equipment compliments of Killerspin. In addition to Taylor and Pouncey, celebrity participants included Miami Heat legend Alonzo Mourning and NBA veteran Raja Bell, Olympic Silver Medalist Sam Dorman, Former Marlins World Series Champion Catcher Charles Johnson, WWE Tough Enough Champion Daniel Puder, former Miami Dolphins stars Sam Madison, Nat Moore, Channing Crowder, Chris Chambers, Terry Kirby and Joe Rose, current Dolphins including Kiko Alonso, Ja’Wuan James, John Denney, and Jermon Bushron, University of Miami football legends including Randal “Thrill” Hill, Brett Romberg and Vernon Carey, and South Florida TV personalities including Kelly Blanco, Angie Lassman and Sheli Muniz of NBC-6 and Diana Diaz, Vivian Gonzalez and Alex de Armas of WSVN. The familyfriendly event also featured Power Parties DJs & Lighting filling the arena with today’s hottest music,
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agencies including The Jason Taylor Reading Room, the Overtown Youth Center and the Urban Leagues of Broward and Greater Miami.
in addition to the Best Buy Fun Zone, where kids in attendance enjoyed gaming stations, haircuts, interactive games and more. The spectrum of Ping-Pong skills was vast, but as the night progressed, the most talented teams from both the “Ping” and the “Pong” conference advanced to the postseason. When the last Ping-Pong ball hit the floor, however, it was Dolphins linebacker Kiko Alonso and his partner, Jared Rosetti, representing CHG Healthcare, who earned the right to hoist the championship belts high above their heads, claiming the 2016 JT’s Ping-Pong Smash title. Alonso and Rosetti bested Nat Moore and his partner, Craig Novek of Wizard Creations, in the final match. Smash co-host, Mike Pouncey, claimed third place with the help of Anthony Romano, also representing CHG Healthcare. Following an awards presentation led by Mike Kruz and Kimmy Bell of Hits 97.3, donors and celebs alike enjoyed the Hooters Champions’ Celebration for a silent auction and loads of fun!
Kids Clinic – Supported by UPS. Nearly 100 deserving children had the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of the world’s fastest sport from former Puerto Rican Junior National Table Tennis Champion and three-time JT’s Ping-Pong Smash Champion, Juan Ly. The youth participating in the Kids Clinic represented Jason Taylor Foundation partner
In addition to CHG Healthcare, Publix, Hooters and UPS, other supporters included Best Buy of Davie, Coast to Coast Legal Aid of South Florida, Fanatics, Flanigan’s Seafood Bar & Grill, Gerlinde & Michael Photography, Gevitta Vitamin Spray, Global Wealth Management, Grounds Group, Inko Dada, Invicta Watch Company, Joe Rose, The Jorge Nation Foundation, Kids 2 Camp, Killerspin, The Law Offices of Lawrence Zieper, Legal Aid Service of Broward County, Milam’s Markets, Northwestern Mutual sponsored by Rich Goodman, PopGraphicsUSA.com, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Seminole Tribe of Florida, Solar D Sunscreen, Steven Douglas Associates, Thunderous Genius Creative House, UB Chillin’ and Wizard Creations.
Not to be lost in the spirit of competition, JT’s Ping-Pong Smash was preceded by the ninth-annual Ping-Pong Smash
November 24, 2016 - November 30, 2016
www.newyorktrendnyc.com 11
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