Issuu

NEW YORK TREND Serving New York City, Nassau & Suffolk Counties

NYC

THE ALTERNATIVE PERSPECTIVE

$1.00

NEWMAYOR YORK TREND DAVID DINKINS, REP. CHARLES RANGEL, Serving New York City, Nassau & Suffolk Counties

newyorktrendnyc.com

THE ALTERNATIVE VOLUMEPERSPECTIVE 26 ISSUE 40

Since 1989 NYC $1.00 newyorktrendnyc.com

December 17, 2015 - December 23, 2015

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 33

Since 1989

December 28h, 2017 - January 3rd, 2018

HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS MAYOR’S OFFICE Gifts Families For Holiday Season The Black Stars News 2015 Annual

MayorAwards Bill de Dinner Blasio will today honor MayorYork City residents together David that Dinkins, Charles during the holidays to support announced NYCRep. Service Rangel, Yvette Clarke, children and youth in need,” mobilized overRep. 1,600 volunteers R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara said NYC Chief Service Officer to answer more than 2,500 Barron, Sabrina Paula Gavin. “The partnership lettersArnwine, from NYCInez children and Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen and support from City agency families in need and provide Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central them Park with gifts during the Five survivors of gross injustice holiday through the6:00pm – onseason December 18 from Secret10:00pm Snowflake initiative. This at MIST Harlem, 46 West 116th Street. initiative relies on the support of Mayor’s staff, private “Each Office honoree chosen for sectorrecognition employeeshas across 15 NYC demonstrated exceptional and vision in businesses, andleadership a dozen NYC David Dinkins her or his respective profession or organizations to provide some endeavor andthousands in some significant holiday cheer for of was a member of the New York measure has contributed youth and families in the City.towards City Council, representing the creating a more just society in this Throughout the last four years, 40th council district in Brooklyn, country,” says Black Star News succeeding her mother, Una S. Secretfounder Snowflake has served and publisher Milton T. Clarke. In the current 114th over 9,000 New York City children Allimadi. “Obviously much work Congress Clarke serves on through letters and in kind needs to be done here and the Energy and Commerce around the world.” donations.

and families during the holidays. We are honored to be an office that inspires others to volunteer and serve each other during the holiday season and beyond.” Every holiday season, the Secret

York and a former chancellor of the

“The holidays a special New Yorkare public schools system. time to spread joy and cheer Pioneering producers Stephen to children and families in through their Byrd and Alia Jones, need,”company said Administration Front Row Production, for Children’s Services brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” Commissioner David Hansell. with a multi-ethnic cast to “Secret Snowflake brings New Broadway. In 2016 they bring Yorkers together to take the time “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner to make a child feel special. I Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. want to thank NYC Service for Honorees, the to so-called Central their commitment giving back Park 5, are collectively and to our young people in care.” individually heroes. They are

survivors of oneofofthe the ugliest “This is a reminder Charles Rangel miscarriage of justice in New York’s wonderful generosity of New history; having been railroaded majority. She now leads The Yorkers and the dedication of andto unjustly convicted for of a crime Transformative Justice Coalition. our staff helping survivors they did not commit and for Arnwine was for 26 years executivedomestic violence rebuild their which director of the Lawyers’ Committee they served long prison sentences lives,”ranging said Department of Social from seven years to 13 years for Civil Rights Under the Law. Services Commissioner Steven before being exonerated when the Inez Barron, honoree, formerly aBanks. “By participating in this actual rapist confessed. They are: State Assembly member, is now Yusef Salaam; Raymond activity withAbdus our City partners, Committee, responsible for Snowflake relies on member a Newinitiative York City council The gala starts at 6:00pm with a Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin consumer protection, food “The holidays can be a critical "Each holiday season, and a champion education for we are bringing holiday joy to the support of the Cityofagency cocktail hour to be followed by the Richardson, and Kharey Wise. safety, energy development, public time for those in need and children who have endured our for youth. partners success. The Mayor’s Office for dinner and awards ceremonies. There the health, communications, the The Black Star News, which focuses remind us to be thankful incredible hardship.” for Children’s Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is will be musical entertainment by environment, andAffairs interstate and Administration on investigative journalism, has International and share that gratitude a legendary radio talk show host “Thanks to NYC Service’s Secret Services (ACS), the Department opera singer Cassandra Douglas international commerce. been featured as a result of some if with our New Yorkers,” and executive producer, andfellow from harmonica phenomenon of Social Services (DSS), theradio DJ, Snowflake initiative, more than activates the world’s its news scoops, on CNN, The New R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is said Mayor Bill de Blasio. poet, songwriter, music recording1,000 children experiencing William Galison. David Dinkins is Department of Homeless York Daily News, The New York a leading developer and founder of largest diplomatic and artist(DHS), and producer, writer “Secret Snowflake has grown honored for Lifetime Achievement Services and therapper, Mayor’s homelessness receive toys, Post, The will Village Voice, and Brill’s The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest and community activist. He began — he wasand New York City’s first tremendously continues consular community to Content magazine. tocareer Combat Domestic books, clothing and school African American-owned real Officehis as a radio DJ in Buffalo African American mayor and also to be an inspiration to our staff estate firm with $3.5 billion worth Violence (OCDV) collect letters holiday season,” Pastthis Black Star News honorees support New Yorkers in at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s supplies welcomed Nelson Mandela to the and our City to give back and of properties under development from children and families served said Department of Homeless been a talk show host at WBLS and have included: Gil Noble (Like It city after his release in 1990. make this season brighter for need through the Secret or management — he was one by their Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad agencies the City. HeServices Administrator Joslyn WLIB radio inbefore New York Rep.else. Charles also honored of the pioneering developerswho holiday someone WeRangel, are committed O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, also has a Friday night radio talk Carter. season. NYC Service “Homelessness affects Snowflake initiative.” for Lifetime helped turn around and revitalize to supporting our Achievement, City’s childrenhas Voza Rivers (New Heritage show on WBAI. engages mayoral and private every neighborhood in our City,Theatre), served in Congress since 1971. He is the once-blighted Anacostia Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel and I want to thank the over Mayor’s Office for International sectorHonoree employees to volunteer Sabrina Lamb, founderand we are grateful for New a recipient of The Bronze medal for neighborhood in Washington, D.C. Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William 1,600helping volunteers who answered Affairs Commissioner Penny of World ofletters Money, is a champion these and save soldiers behind enemy Yorkers’ dedication to spreading A champion of African-American to answer Pollard (Medgar Evers College), Abeywardena. letters, as well as all the NYC of financial literacy for youth-she line during the Korean War. gifts. In addition, the holiday spirit through economic empowerment Peebles’ purchase is Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba organizations who donated knowledgeand about handlinggenerosity and compassion for contemplating a possible run for NYC other teaches NYC businesses Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna money, budgeting andCity planning. gifts and resources to make mayor in 2017. and every organizations across the member of the US House of neighbors in need.” partners, businesses, Fountain (Columbia University), the holiday season special Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of Representatives from New Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy day New Yorkers acrossArnwine, the City civil provide in kind donations to Honoree Barbara “The holidays are a precious time th for thousands of 9children nation’s children leading educators. He’s York whose districtand covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local rightstolawyer, champion of serve the additional and continues makeisitapossible of year for Rev. so many, and children families in need.” much of central Brooklyn. Before for NYC 237), Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic families. This year, 2,300 in kind Service to grow Secret especially enjoy opening presents entering Congress in 2007, she Action Network), and many others. of The City University of New minority groups — the emerging donations were collected to serve “Secret Snowflake brings New Snowflake and support children -cont'd on Page 4 additional children and families.

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

PAGE 2 Education FLY BLUE!pg.5

PAGE 3 OPRAH HONORED NewYorkTrendnyc

NewYorkTrendnyc

BluePage Sky EPIC pg.8LIKE YUH! 7 BAD

PAGE 6 MISSY RECEIVES HONORS

December 17, 2015 - December 23, 2015

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

Page 11 NYC NEW YEARS!

PAGE 8 2018 ABFF HONOREES

www.newyorktrendnyc.com

NE WS

OPRAH WINFREY TO RECEIVE CECIL B. DE MILLE AWARD AT GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS “The Color Purple,” earned critical acclaim in “Lee Daniels’ The Butler” and produced and acted in the Academy Award-winning film “Selma.” Winfrey starred in the Emmy-nominated HBO Films “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” and will portray “Mrs. Which” in Disney’s “Wrinkle in Time” film adaptation from director Ava DuVernay releasing in March 2018.

Acclaimed actress, producer, television star and entrepreneur Oprah Winfrey will be honored with the 2018 Cecil B. de Mille Award at the 75th Annual Golden Globe® Awards on Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018, hosted by Seth Meyers. The 2018 Golden Globe Awards

will air LIVE coast-to-coast on NBC from 5-8 p.m. PT / 8-11 p.m. ET from The Beverly Hilton. The news was exclusively announced by 2012 Cecil B. de Mille Award recipient Morgan Freeman during the airing of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s (HFPA) “Golden

WHERE CAN TECHNOLOGY TAKE YOU?

IN THE NATION IN PRODUCING

THE HIGHEST PAID ASSOCIATE-DEGREE EARNING

GRADUATES

—PAYSCALE.COM

IN THE NATION IN MOVING

LOW-INCOME

STUDENTS TO

MIDDLE CLASS —CHRONICLE.COM

EXCELSIOR SCHOLARSHIP: YOU MAY BE ABLE TO ATTEND CITY TECH TUITION-FREE!

APPLY NOW 20178 DIRECT ADMISSIONS

718.260.5500 www.citytech.cuny.edu/directadmissions

2 | NewYorkTrendnyc

NEW YORK CITY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

CITY TECH Downtown Brooklyn

facebook.com/citytech • @citytechnews

www.citytech.cuny.edu

Globe 75th Anniversary Special” on NBC. Meher Tatna, President of the HFPA stated, “The Hollywood Foreign Press Association is delighted to announce Oprah Winfrey as the recipient of the 2018 Cecil B. de Mille Award. As a global media leader, philanthropist, producer and actress, she has created an unparalleled connection with people around the world, making her one of the most respected and admired figures today. For generations, Oprah has celebrated strong female characters on and off screen, and has been a role model for women and young girls for decades. Holding titles such as Chairman, CEO and Founder, Oprah is one of the most influential women of our time, and this honor is well deserved especially in this 75th anniversary year of the Golden Globe Awards.” Chosen by the HFPA Board of Directors, the Cecil B. de Mille Award is given annually to a talented individual who has made an incredible impact on the world of entertainment. Honorees over the decades include Audrey Hepburn, Barbra Streisand, Denzel Washington, George Clooney, Harrison Ford, Jodie Foster, Lucille Ball, Martin Scorsese, Meryl Streep, Michael Douglas, Robert De Niro, Robin Williams, Sidney Poitier, Sophia Loren, Steven Spielberg, and many more. For 25 years, Winfrey was host of the award-winning talk show “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” As Chairman and CEO, she’s guiding her successful cable network, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, is the founder of O, The Oprah Magazine, and oversees Harpo Films. Winfrey is a Golden Globe Awardnominated actress for her role in

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

This year marks the 10th anniversary of The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa as they celebrate the school’s seventh graduating class. Winfrey established the school in 2007 to provide education for academically gifted girls from disadvantaged backgrounds. Graduates of the school have continued on to higher education both in South Africa and at colleges and universities around the world. Produced by dick clark productions in association with the HFPA, the Golden Globe Awards are viewed in more than 236 countries worldwide and are one of the few awards ceremonies to include both motion picture and television achievements. Meher Tatna is President of the HFPA. Allen Shapiro, CEO of dick clark productions; Mike Mahan, President of dick clark productions; and Barry Adelman, Executive VP of Television of dick clark productions, will serve as executive producers. Founded in the 1940s during World War II, the HFPA was originally comprised of a handful of L.A.based overseas journalists who sought to bridge the international community with Hollywood, and to provide distraction from the hardships of war through film. Seventy-five years later, members of the HFPA represent 56 countries with a combined readership of 250 million in some of the world’s most respected publications. Each year, the organization holds the third most watched awards show on television, the Golden Globe® Awards, which has enabled the organization to donate nearly $30 million to entertainment-related charities, scholarship programs and humanitarian efforts over the last 25 years. This year, the HFPA has distributed $3 million in grants through their Charitable Trust to a diverse group of organizations and institutions within the entertainment industry. For more information, please visit www.GoldenGlobes. com and follow us on Twitter (@ GoldenGlobes) and Facebook (www. facebook.com/GoldenGlobes).

www.newyorktrendnyc.com

P OLI T ICS

HOWARD UNIVERSITY CANCER CENTER TOPS FUNDRAISING GOAL

Howard University Cancer Center’s annual Rosemary Williams Breast Cancer Brunch exceeded its $100,000 fundraising goal, furthering the center’s mission to eliminate breast cancer disparities for minority women.

The Oct. 15 brunch honored the late Rosemary Williams who was a tireless advocate for equal access to quality health care for underserved women. To honor Williams’ legacy, proceeds raised through the brunch support the center’s critical breast cancer disparity programs which include screening and other patient-centered services. Howard University, Howard University Hospital, and the Cancer Center have for decades spearheaded programs to help meet the needs of women lacking access to care in the metro region. Major event sponsors included: The Dana Foundation, Amgen, Inc., the Charmettes, Inc., and the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star. More than 300 guests attended the Rosemary Williams Breast Cancer Brunch. Andrea Roane, WUSA 9 News Now Anchor and medical reporter served as honorary chair and MC for the event. Fundraising

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

activities were boosted this year through the work of a committed team of women who served as honorary co-chairs and as cochairs for the event (pictured). “We were very excited that this group of dynamic and dedicated women embraced the mission of the Cancer Center and used their time and talents to help us not just achieve, but exceed our fundraising goal,” said Dr. Carla Williams, interim director of the Howard University Cancer Center. At the brunch, HUH radiologist

Online Editorial Director Rachel Breton Hamlett Art Director Jessica R. Doughty 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) 551-1545 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 33

NewYorkTrendnyc

Dr. Estelle Cooke-Sampson, who served as one of the event cochairs, donated a 10-day stay at a vacation home in Hawaii for the silent auction. HUH Chief Nursing Officer Dr. Shirley Evers-Manly spearheaded the silent auction and generously donated several original art pieces, jewelry and other items. Ricardo Mavin, son of Howard University Hospital Director of Nursing Sandra Mavin, created an original art piece for the event. The final total of brunch proceeds is still being calculated. Brunch proceeds support vital services to women in the region, including the Rosemary Williams Mammoday Breast Cancer Screening Program. The program provides free and low cost breast cancer screening, diagnostic services, and patient navigation for uninsured women. For 14 years, Mammoday has been a consistent community resource for women who face a variety of barriers to accessing health care. To sign up or learn more about screening, call (202) 865-4655. Potential sponsors interested in supporting next year’s brunch can call or email Cherie Spencer (202) 865-5399 or c_spencer@howard.edu Proceeds also support the Cancer Center’s Transdisciplinary Breast Clinic which provides a patientcentered approach to breast cancer care. Women receive same day, coordinated care from an elite team of cancer specialists. This approach reduces patient burdens and enhances the overall quality of care. In addition, proceeds support the Equal Access to Genetic Testing Fund which assists patients for whom genetic testing is indicated and recommended but not covered by insurance, and/or for patients who are uninsured.

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

The Howard University Cancer Center has had a long history of serving minorities and underserved populations and addressing disparities. Thus, the mission of HUCC is to reduce the burden of cancer through research, education, and service, with emphasis on the unique ethnic and cultural aspects of minority and underserved populations. The Cancer Center has provided specialized, culturally competent breast cancer screening and treatment for over 45 years. For more information about the Howard University Cancer Center, visit Facebook. Over the course of its roughly 155year history of providing the finest primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare services, Howard University Hospital (HUH) remains one of the most comprehensive healthcare facilities in the Washington metropolitan area. It is designated a DC Level 1 Trauma Center. The hospital is the nation's only teaching hospital located on the campus of a historically Black university. Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private research university that is comprised of 13 schools and colleges. Students pursue studies in more than 120 areas leading to undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University operates with a commitment to Excellence in Truth and Service and has produced four Rhodes Scholars, nine Truman Scholars, two Marshall Scholars, one Schwarzman Scholar, over 60 Fulbright Scholars and 22 Pickering Fellows. Howard also produces more on-campus African-American Ph.D. recipients than any other university in the United States. For more information on Howard University, call 202-238-2330, or visit www. howard.edu.

www.newyorktrendnyc.com | 3

BUSINE S S FEDEX Named Amongst

Best Workplaces for Diversity FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) announced today that it has been recognized as one of the 2017 Best Workplaces for Diversity by global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work and Fortune. FedEx ranked #13 on the list, which assessed more than 50 elements of team members’ experience on the job, including professional development, behaviors linked to innovation, leadership confidence and consistent treatment among employees of different backgrounds. “At FedEx, our team members are our greatest asset and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment in which we can all thrive has always been a priority for us,” said Judy Edge, corporate vice president of Human Resources at FedEx Corp. “We are honored to be named one of the 2017 best workplaces for diversity and are committed to embracing and celebrating the differences and unique talents of our team members across the globe.” Diversity and inclusion is both a fundamental part of the FedEx culture and a business imperative for the global transportation company. A key driver of its commitment to diversity and inclusion is its Corporate Diversity Council in which members collaborate across the enterprise to motivate and inspire each other, share best practices and support multicultural programs within the company and communities it serves. FedEx also raises

awareness and promotes understanding of the differences among its team members through the extensive diversity training it offers to thousands of its employees each year. FedEx is also purposeful about weaving diversity and inclusion practices into recruitment, development, mentoring and advancement opportunities to ensure it has a skilled pool of diverse talent in the pipeline at all levels of the organization. The Best Workplaces for Diversity ranking considered more than 440,000 employee surveys from organizations in a wide range of industries across the US. It also accounted for the share of women, people of color, Baby Boomers and LGBTQ individuals in the workplace, among other factors. In addition to this list of the top 50 workplaces for diversity in general, Great Place to Work and Fortune are publishing separate lists of the Best Workplaces for AfricanAmericans, Best Workplaces for Asian-Americans and Best Workplaces for Latinos. In 2016, FedEx ranked #3 on the 10 Best Workplaces for African-Americans list. About FedEx Corp  FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services. With annual revenues of $61 billion, the company offers integrated business applications through operating companies

competing collectively and managed collaboratively, under the respected FedEx brand. Consistently ranked among the world’s most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 400,000 team members to remain “absolutely, positively” focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards and the needs of their customers

lists published with FORTUNE, visit Greatplacetowork.com.

and communities. To learn more about how FedEx connects people and possibilities around the world, please visit about.fedex.com.

to Work For®" and Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small & Medium Companies, industries and, internationally, countries and regions. Through its culture consulting services, Great Place to Work helps clients create great workplaces that outpace peers on key business metrics like revenue growth, profitability, retention and stock performance. Learn more at Greatplacetowork. com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About the Best Workplaces for Diversity  Great Place to Work based its ranking on a data-driven methodology applied to anonymous Trust Index™ survey responses from 442,624 employees at Great Place to Work-Certified organizations. To learn more about Great Place to Work Certification and recognition on Best Workplaces

About Great Place to Work  Great Place to Work is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through its certification programs, Great Place to Work recognizes outstanding workplace cultures and produces the annual Fortune "100 Best Companies

Mayor’s Office Gifts Families For Holiday Season (cont'd from cover) from their parents, loved ones and friends,” said Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence Commissioner Cecile Noel. “While every family may not be in a position to buy gifts, the Secret Snowflake program ensures that more children are able to open a gift each year, and enjoy the spirit of the season.” The Mayor’s Office for International Affairs also engages the diplomatic community in service during the holidays. This year, participants 4 | NewYorkTrendnyc

included representatives from the Consulates General of Belize, Finland, Germany, Lebanon, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates. Representatives from the Permanent Missions of Afghanistan, Andorra, Austria, Chile, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Liberia, Nepal, Poland, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Vanuatu, as well as, the European Union Delegation to the United Nations also participated. "Each holiday season,

the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs activates the world’s largest diplomatic and consular community to support New Yorkers in need through the Secret Snowflake initiative,” said Mayor’s Office for International Affairs Commissioner Penny Abeywardena. “This year, representatives from more than 25 countries collected gifts to bring joy to over 165 youth and children and their families. We are grateful for this opportunity to connect our international

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

partners with the local communities of New York City in the spirit of service and giving.” NYC Service actively recruits corporate partners and local businesses to fulfill the holiday wishes of children in need. Companies engage their employees to volunteer and answer hand written letters from children, while local businesses donate toys and books to supplement answered letters and serve additional families. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

Homeownership is closer than you think. Citi® can help you take the first steps toward owning a home with our exclusive HomeRun1 program. You’ll find that it’s an easier, more affordable way to homeownership. Plus, our dedicated Mortgage Representatives will provide the guidance you need throughout the process. THE BENEFITS OF OUR HOMERUN PROGRAM: •

No mortgage insurance required

•

Competitive interest rates

•

Down payments as low as 3%

Shawn Carson Home Lending Officer 718-915-8965 shawn.carson@citi.com citi.com/shawncarson NMLS# 1098281

Get closer to your next home. Contact your local Mortgage Representative today. Jamarr B. Lewis Home Lending Officer 917-805-2183 jamarr.lewis@citi.com citi.com/jamarrlewis NMLS# 721763

Terms, conditions and fees for accounts, products, programs and services are subject to change. This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Certain restrictions may apply on all programs. 1

HomeRun is available only in Citibank assessment areas for loans on the primary residence of borrowers who qualify and is subject to geographic, income, property, product and other restrictions. To be eligible for up to 97% financing, the property must be a single-family home with a loan amount up to $424,100. Single-family homes in certain high-cost markets with loan amounts between $424,101 and $636,150 are eligible for up to 95% financing. Condominiums and co-ops are eligible for up to 95% financing with loan amounts up to $424,100, or loan amounts up to $636,150 in certain high-cost markets. © 2017 Citibank, N.A. NMLS# 412915. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. Citi, Citi and Arc Design and other marks used herein are service marks of Citigroup Inc. or its affiliates, used and registered throughout the world.

New York Trend Magazine Ad_09282017.indd 1

NewYorkTrendnyc

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

9/28/2017 10:41:22 AM

www.newyorktrendnyc.com | 5

ENTER TAINMENT

MISSY ELLIOTT TO RECEIVE 2018 ESSENCE ‘BLACK WOMEN IN MUSIC’ HONOR

Time Inc.’s (NYSE: TIME) ESSENCE, the number one media company dedicated to African-American women, will celebrate multi-GRAMMY® winner and music icon Missy Elliott with its 2018 ‘Black Women in Music’ honor on January 25, 2018 at the Highline Ballroom in New York City. A multi-GRAMMY Award-winning rapper, singer, songwriter and producer, Elliott has consistently pushed the boundaries of R&B, hip-hop and pop music with a string of classic hits—including Get Ur Freak On, Work It, Lose Control, Lady Marmalade, Pep Rally and WTF (featuring Pharrell), among many more. Elliott has collaborated with entertainment giants such as Timbaland and Pharrell, as well as produced chart-topping hits for Whitney Houston, Beyoncé and Mary J. Blige. 2015’s legendary Super Bowl Halftime show performance with Katy Perry solidified Missy’s global influence across generations. Now, following nearly a decade- long focus on behind-the-scenes production work, she has re-emerged stronger than ever with the release of I’m Better (featuring Lamb, and another version with hip-hop heavyweights Eve, Lil Kim and Trina), as well as a planned

Established in 2010, ESSENCE ‘Black Women in Music’ recognizes the accomplishments of both emerging and established artists and influencers during GRAMMY week. Previous celebrants include GRAMMY Award winners Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Rowland and GRAMMY Award nominee Andra Day, as well as music industry veteran Sylvia Rhone and singer/ songwriter Emeli Sandé.

“The artistry of Missy Elliott cuts across generations—underscored by her vast creative accomplishments and contributions to the culture.” - Vanessa De Luca, ESSENCE Editor-in- Chief documentary on her life in music. Considered a seminal force in the entertainment industry, Elliott is also a positive role model: projecting strength, confidence and female empowerment to her legion of fans. Missy Elliott is a formidable businesswoman and retains full creative control over her music and multimedia content. After more than two decades in hip-hop, she is still at the top of her game.

“The artistry of Missy Elliott cuts across generations—underscored by her vast creative accomplishments and contributions to the culture,” said Vanessa De Luca, ESSENCE Editorin- Chief. “So prolific is her work, she is an inspiration to women all over the world. Missy’s energetic presence is truly magnetic, and we can’t wait to celebrate her as one of the artistic masterminds of our time.”

The 2018 ESSENCE ‘Black Women in Music’ event is sponsored by Lincoln. Stay tuned to Essence.com for highlights and behind-the-scenes access. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @essence #BlackWomeninMusic. Join in the discussion on Facebook. ESSENCE is the number one media company dedicated to African-American women, with a brand reach of 21.2 million. With a multi-platform presence in publishing, live events and online, ECI is comprised of Essence magazine, the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African-American women; the ESSENCE Festival®; Black Women in Hollywood and Black Women in Music events; Window on Our Women and Smart Beauty consumer insights series; Essence.com; and ventures in digital media (mobile, television and VOD).

NOW ON BROADWAY “A

joyous 90-minute fairy tale.

EVERYONE WILL DANCE DOWN THE STREET!” - THE NEW YORK TIMES

FEATURING

LEA SALONGA

TONY AWARD ® WINNER

ALEX NEWELL (“GLEE”)

MERLE DANDRIDGE (“GREENLEAF”)

QUENTIN EARL DARRINGTON (CATS)

SAVE UP TO $60 ON TICKETS! USE CODE: ISLANDDW

TelechargeOffers.com • 212-947-8844 • 6 | NewYorkTrendnyc

Circle in the Square Theatre, 235 W. 50th Street

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

www.newyorktrendnyc.com

ENTER TAINMENT

RAP SUPERSTAR J E E Z Y RELEASES ‘ PRESSURE ’ ON D EF JA M

(Dec. 15, 2017 – New York, NY) Grammy®-nominated multi-platinum rap superstar JEEZY releases his hotly anticipated new studio album PRESSURE today on Def Jam Recordings. The album, announced less than two weeks ago, features previously released tracks “Bottles Up” featuring Puff Daddy and “Cold Summer” featuring Tee Grizzley. This week, JEEZY released a little bit of PRESSURE, with a smooth debut performance of “Like Them” featuring Tory Lanez on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert and an early premiere of the earthshaking intro track “Spyder” and conversation-starter “American Dream” featuring two of raps biggest starts, J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar. JEEZY has also been foreshadowing PRESSURE’s theme on social media for several weeks with the #TrustYaProcess hashtag, meaning trust in oneself to overcome life's most difficult challenges - JEEZY’s motto for reaching new heights throughout his legendary career, never cracking under pressure. Along with the album, this week Jeezy announced the “Cold Summer

Tour,” which kicks off February 7th and runs for 31 dates across the country. Tickets and exclusive VIP are available now at www. JeezyOfficial.com.

It: Thug Motivation 101, which pioneered the trap music genre. Recent business ventures for JEEZY include his new fitness water

Defiance Fuel, and his partnership in the Atlanta location of American Cut Steakhouse, and his ongoing partnership with Tequila Avion.

PRESSURE continues to carry the torch of JEEZY’s powerful voice to a brave new world. The new album is the eagerly awaited follow-up to Trap Or Die 3 (October 2016), JEEZY’s third LP to debut at #1 Soundscan across-the-board. Boasting a star-studded lineup of hip-hop luminaries, including Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, French Montana, Yo Gotti, Plies, and the late Bankroll Fresh, TD3 brought it back to the essence of JEEZY aka “The Snowman,” who continues to define the trap music genre with his vivid storytelling of the struggle and triumph of the streets. In MarchApril 2017, JEEZY headlined the “Trap Or Die 3 Tour.” Over the course of his legendary career, Jeezy has sold more than 5 million albums worldwide and has had multiple chart-topping hits. 2015 marked the 10th anniversary of Jeezy’s seminal debut solo album, the RIAA platinum Let’s Get

Odds of getting enough sleep?

Odds of winning Take 5?

1 in yawn.

1 in 9.

NewYorkTrendnyc

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018 Mech Size: Sinlge Mech PUB: NY Trend

www.newyorktrendnyc.com | 7

ENTER TAINMENT ‘AFROPoP’ CELEBRATEs

Actor Nicholas L. Ashe, star of the acclaimed television show Queen Sugar (OWN), will host the 10th season of the ground-breaking public television series _AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange. AfroPoP X_ brings to U.S. audiences a collection of documentary films focusing on issues including the arts, immigration, heritage, social justice and more—all examined through the lens of the African Diaspora. The series premieres on WORLD Channel at 8 p.m. ET (10 p.m. PT) on Monday, January 15—Martin Luther King Jr. Day. New episodes will air weekly through February 12. The show is produced by Black Public Media (formerly known as National Black Programming Consortium). Copresented by distributor American Public Television (APT), AfroPoP will be released by APT to public television stations across the U.S. in February 2018. Best known to television fans for his role as Micah on Queen Sugar, the award-winning series from Oprah Winfrey and Ava DuVernay, Ashe has been acting since his stage debut at 10 as the young Simba in the national tour of The Lion King. He has also garnered film and television roles including 2016’s Custody with Viola Davis and Are We There Yet?

“As we celebrate 10 years of AfroPoP, Season 10’s films remind us not enough has changed for people of African descent globally. Immigration is still a challenge, inequitable treatment of women of color is still an issue, and inequitable distribution of resources is just as pervasive--even when the need is great and resources are available,” said BPM Director of Programs and Acquisitions and AfroPoP Executive Producer Kay Shaw. “BPM is committed to continuing to bring to the American public these stories and others that celebrate the art, culture and creativity people of African descent for another 10 years.” In 2007, with a plethora of films about the Black experience in need of distribution, BPM decided to create a series to show the full breadth of Black life. AfroPoP premiered on public television in 2008 with celebrity host Idris Elba and remains the nation’s only public television documentary series on contemporary life, art and culture across the African Diaspora. It has since aired 47 feature documentaries and several

8 | NewYorkTrendnyc

nonfiction and fiction shorts, providing a platform for filmmakers of color to tell their diverse stories. Anika Noni Rose, Wyatt Cenac, Gabourey Sidibe, Anthony Mackie, Yaya DaCosta, Jussie Smollett and Nikki Beharie, along with Ashe, have each served as AfroPoP hosts. This season of the nation’s only public television documentary series on contemporary life, art and culture across the African Diaspora includes: Black Panther Woman, Rachel Perkins’ moving documentary on Marlene Cummins, a member of the Australian Black Panther Party and her personal story of activism, art and addiction, including her coming forward with her own #MeToo moment from the movement (January 15); a shorts program consisting of Marco Williams’ Lonnie Holley: The Truth of the Dirt, Michael Fequiere’s Kojo and Jessica Beshir’s He Who Dances on Wood (January 22); Between 2 Shores, Mariette Monpierre’s gripping documentary about two Dominican women fighting to bring their children with them to their new lives in Guadeloupe, highlights a struggle faced by many immigrants today: family reunification (January 29); Ten Days in Africa, Regi Allen’s humorous and insightful look at his trip to West Africa to explore the differences and similarities between Africans and African-Americans, a special encore broadcast from the first year of AfroPoP (February 5); and Fatal Assistance, awardwinning filmmaker Raoul Peck’s scathing indictment of global aid policies that failed Haiti in the aftermath of the devastating 2010 earthquake’s aftermath. Peck was a recent Oscar nominee for I Am Not Your Negro, which was funded in part by BPM.

10 SEASONS

celebrate 10 years of AfroPoP with our partners at Black Public Media and APT. Sharing diverse and unique stories from around the globe is core to our channel’s mission, and AfroPoP’s new season of films will continue to provide our audiences with a lens through which to view and better understand important narratives,” said WORLD Channel Executive Producer Chris Hastings. “We are so very proud that WORLD Channel is a part of the program’s continued distribution to public media.” 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 information, check local listings or www.APTonline.org.

Nicholas L. Ashe stars as Micah West in the critically acclaimed OWN series Queen Sugar, directed by Ava DuVernay (Selma) and executiveproduced by Oprah Winfrey. His harrowing performance in the current season has resulted in critical praise and attention from

“AfroPoP is celebrating 10 years and still going strong. That is a testament to the great work BPM has done to curate and give voice to talented storytellers, and a validation that the series continues to serve viewers from across the country who value the diverse, educational, artistic and sometimes challenging programming that the program champions and celebrates,” said APT Director of Business Development & International Sales Tom Davison. “APT is proud to have been with BPM from the get go and to partner with our colleagues at WORLD Channel to bring AfroPoP to public television audiences nationwide.” “WORLD Channel is proud to

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

industry professionals and fans. Earlier he played Viola Davis’s son in the courtroom drama Custody, which premiered at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival. Ashe made his acting debut at age 10 in the role of Young Simba in the national tour of The Lion King. Onstage, he is perhaps best known for his Lincoln Center debut opposite Marin Ireland in Abe Koogler’s world-premiere production of Kill Floor, receiving glowing reviews from the New York Times for his pivotal role. Ashe also played the role of Junior in Manhattan Theatre Club’s critically acclaimed production of Choir Boy (directed by Trip Cullman), reprising the role at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta and the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. Ashe is also a talented vocalist, pianist and composer. Under the tutelage of renowned playwright Tarell Alvin McCraney, he has developed original stories and music of his own. In 2015, he created a scholarship for young artists in his hometown of Freeport, Long Island. Ashe collaborated with Cierra Glaude on a short film titled Last Looks, which had its world premiere at the 2017 Urbanworld Film Festival.

Nicholas L. Ashe of Queen Sugar

www.newyorktrendnyc.com

THE AR T S

HARLEM STAGE Presents “Ella – A Centennial Celebration” On January 16, 2018 at 7:00pm, join Harlem Stage — the legendary uptown venue that for over 30 years has been promoting the creative legacy of Harlem and artists of color — for a special winter benefit performance that will honor the life and work of Ella Fitzgerald. This intimate evening will feature jazz icon Dee Dee Bridgewater and singing sensation Wé McDonald, of The Voice fame, as they pay tribute to the legendary Ella Fitzgerald in honor of her centennial. In the spirit of the best traditions in jazz, both of these artists will perform their own inimitable interpretations of the songs made famous by Ella. This special event supports Harlem Stage’s critical mission to exclusively commission and present works by visionary artists of color and also supports the thousands of New York City schoolchildren Harlem Stage serves each year through the Frances Davis/Harlem Stage Arts Education Program. Over the course of a multifaceted career spanning four decades, Grammy and Tony Award-winning

Jazz giant Dee Dee Bridgewater has ascended to the upper echelon of vocalists, putting her unique spin on standards, as well as taking intrepid leaps of faith in re-envisioning jazz classics. Ever the fearless voyager, explorer, pioneer and keeper of tradition, the three-time Grammy-winner most recently won the Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album for Eleanora Fagan (1915-1959): To Billie With Love From Dee Dee. Bridgewater’s career has always bridged musical genres. She earned her first professional experience as a member of the legendary Thad Jones/Mel Louis Big Band, and throughout the 70’s she performed with such jazz notables as Max Roach, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon and Dizzy Gillespie. Releasing a series of criticallyacclaimed CD’s, all but one, including her wildly successful double Grammy Award-winning tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, Dear Ella – have received Grammy nominations. Her newest CD “Memphis…Yes, I’m Ready” was released in September 2017.

who grew up taking vocal lessons at Harlem School of the Arts. She has performed at The Apollo and was a contestant on The Voice, where she received much acclaim from the judges and audience. McDonald credits the late singer Etta James as one of her biggest influences along with Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Janice Joplin and Billie Holiday. In 2017, Wé McDonald was the recipient of the inaugural Harlem Stage Emerging Artist Award.

Wé McDonald is a Harlem native,

Event Details:

January 16, 2018 7:00PM HARLEM STAGE GATEHOUSE 150 Convent Avenue (at West 135th Street) Special Event Tickets: Tiered pricing $250 – Benefit Concert ticket $500 – Benefit Concert ticket, Invitation to private after party, $1,000 – VIP Concert ticket, Invitation to private after party, VIP shuttle transportation to the private after party, Benefit Committee listing in event materials, Harlem Stage Medallion Membership

SPEND THE HOLIDAYS AT

NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY Exhibitions, Programs, and Free Films: November – December 2017 NEW FILM  We Rise

Now Playing in Daily in Rotation with Our Film New York Story: Free with Museum Admission Narrated by Meryl Streep and featuring the song “We Are Here” written and composed by Alicia Keys, New-York Historical’s

NewYorkTrendnyc

new film We Rise celebrates the centennial of women’s suffrage in New York State, placing women at the center of political thought and action that reshaped the country in the early 20th century. We Rise, a cornerstone of the new Center for Women’s History, is shown every day in our state-of-the-art ground-floor theater, in regular rotation with the destination film New York Story. Through artistic projections, immersive sound, and theatrical

lighting, the unique 17-minute film We Rise profiles some of the remarkable women whose advocacy for change had lasting effects, including Lillian Wald, nurse and founder of Henry Street Settlement; Addie Hunton, suffragist and leader of black women’s organizations; Margaret Sanger, birth control activist; and Clara Lemlich, a leader of the massive strike of shirtwaist workers in New York’s garment industry in 1909; as well as

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

women like Clara Driscoll, head of the Tiffany Studios Women’s Glass Cutting Department, who found new opportunities for work and independence in New York City in that time period.

www.newyorktrendnyc.com | 9

TECH NOLOGY

ANNUAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR Planned

The City of Miami Gardens encourages academic excellence from all of its students – hoping that they will broaden their scope for occupations (beginning at the elementary level) in the world of science and engineering. To assist with successfully implementing this process, the City of Miami Gardens will host its Annual Science and Engineering Fair for students with an interest in science. The event, the brain trust of Councilman David Williams Jr., Seat 5, has become one of the beacon projects in the community. Sponsorship opportunities are currently available for those interested in supporting the initiative. The event itself is set for Monday, December 11, 2017 with the Science and Engineering Fair Competition, from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Florida International University Biscayne Bay Campus, located in the Wolfe University Center Ballrooms, 3000 NE 151st Street in North Miami, Florida. The Fair concludes on Tuesday, December 12, 2017, with the Science Fair Awards Presentation Ceremony to be held from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

at Carol City Senior High, located at 3301 Miami Gardens Drive in Miami Gardens, Florida. “We are thrilled to host yet another Science and Engineering Fair,” said Councilman David Williams Jr. “This Fair helps expose students to science, engineering, and technology components that will inspire them to seek future endeavors in great, life-changing fields of study.” Students from 22 schools throughout Miami Gardens are preparing now for their winning projects. Participants from the innovative Beginnings in Science (iBiS) Programs include: Golden Glades Elementary School, Crestview Elementary School, Scott Lake Elementary School, Rainbow Park Elementary School, Parkview Elementary School, Carol City Elementary School, Hibiscus Elementary School, Barbara Hawkins Elementary School, and Carol City High School. Over 100 students from these schools are expected to participate for cash prizes ranging from $25 – $750 for the most unique project. Judges from various fields will critique student projects and the top five students will be recognized with cash

prizes. With a population of over 107,000, the City of Miami Gardens is the third largest city in Miami-Dade County, covering twenty square miles. Its expansive city hall is the only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design public facility in America. With over a decade of leadership under its belt, the City is filled with world-class universities, show-stopping entertainment, thriving businesses, exceptional restaurants and shops, and best

of all, caring neighborhoods that reflect unity in the community. With stellar events, like Jazz in the Gardens, the City of Miami Gardens offers fine cultural enrichment, planting seeds to meet resident needs and continuously cultivating possibilities. The City of Miami Gardens is currently seeking sponsors for the Science and Engineering Fair. Sponsorship levels include Gold Sponsors ($2,500), Silver Sponsors ($1,500), and Bronze Sponsors ($500).

HBCU'S Invited to Emerging Researchers Conference

The American Association for the Advancement of Science, with funding from the National

Science Foundation, will support students and faculty from Historically Black Colleges and Universities to participate in the 10 | NewYorkTrendnyc

Making & Innovation Showcase. The showcase will coincide with the Emerging Researchers

Network Conference (http:// new.emerging-researchers. org/ ) and take place on February 22-24, 2018 at the

Marriott Wardman Park hotel in Washington, D.C. The showcase is designed to provide an opportunity for students to showcase the talent and innovation at their institution. To participate in the showcase teams (3-5 students and a faculty member) should identify a problem in their local community that addresses one of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Teams interested in participating must complete the online registration. One team member should upload a 2-page pdf or power point presentation. The presentation should describe the project and the team members. Details should include who the team members are, what the project does, who the project is for, and

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

how the project addresses one of the Sustainable Development Goals. Projects can be new designs or ones developed in the previous academic year. All team members, including faculty, must register for the showcase by Dec 22, 2017. Teams will be notified of acceptance by December 29, 2017. Participants will receive a travel award that covers the ERN conference registration fee, housing, ground transportation and airfare to Washington, D.C.. For complete information and to register for the showcase, visit the website at http://www.cvent. com/d/gtq2wd. www.newyorktrendnyc.com

END NO TE S

American Black Film Festival Ho no r s

BILLY DEE WILLIAMS, TIFFANY HADDISH and OMARI HARDWICK

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors is proud to present legendary actor, singer and writer Billy Dee Williams with the “Hollywood Legacy Award;” actor Omari Hardwick with the “Distinguished ABFF Alumni Award;” and actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish with the “Rising Star Award” at the 2018 ABFF Honors. The awards gala will take place on February 25, 2018 at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. The awards show celebrates individuals of African descent who have made distinguished contributions to American culture through their work, and salutes the year’s best movies and television shows. ABFF Honors was created by American Black Film Festival founder Jeff Friday, to promote camaraderie and a spirit of mutual appreciation among multicultural artists in Hollywood. Actor and comedian Cedric The Entertainer will host the annual event.

The “Hollywood Legacy Award” is presented to a renowned artist whose trailblazing work and ground-breaking achievements, over at least four decades, have inspired generations and made an enduring contribution to film and television. Billy Dee Williams embodies the true spirit of an industry icon and will be the recipient of this year’s award. Williams has continued to break barriers in Hollywood and distinguish himself as a talented and driven actor, who has been fearless in pursuing acting jobs and has served as a role model for actors of color. As a veteran actor for the past 50 years, his extraordinary resume of work in film and television include Brian Song, Mahogany and Lady Sings the Blues, which have all become classics in Black cinema. In the 80’s, George Lucas tapped him to play the scoundrel, Lando Calrissian, in “The Empire Strikes Back,” which he reprised in “The Return of the Jedi.” He also played the district attorney, Harvey Dent, in 1989’s, “Batman.” These roles opened a distinct lane for black actors to pursue roles in science fiction films. He was duly smooth and charming as a love interest for Diahann Carroll on ABC’s, “Dynasty” and also won strong praise for his portrayal of Motown founder Berry Gordy in the ABC miniseries, “The Jacksons: An American Dream.” Each year, the ABFF Honors “Distinguished ABFF Alumni Award” is given to an alumnus of the American Black Film Festival, in recognition of their career achievement since their debut at the festival. Omari Hardwick has been a continued advocate of the festival and its mission. He was the

NewYorkTrendnyc

first host of “ABFF Independent,” a show which highlighted independent films presented at ABFF festivals throughout the years, and airs on Aspire TV. As an actor, musician and poet, his breakout role in the hit Starz series, Power, has catapulted him to superstar status. Past television and film roles include Tyler Perry’s For Colored Girls (2010), and BET Network’s Being Mary Jane. Hardwick has been a part of the ABFF family for many years and ABFF Honors is proud to applaud him for his significant accomplishments in

ceremony, in acknowledgement of her recent success and future promise. Award-winning director and producer, Ava DuVernay, will round out our honorary awards for the evening and will receive the “Industry Visionary Award.” This award is presented to a pioneering artist in acknowledgment of their outstanding accomplishments in the motion picture and television industry. Our 2018 honorees will join an illustrious list of past ABFF Honors celebrants, including actors Denzel Washington, Regina King, Don Cheadle, Diahann Carroll, Queen

entertainment. Tiffany Haddish is quickly establishing herself as one of the most soughtafter comedic talents in television and film. Haddish starred in Universal’s hit summer movie, Girls Trip, alongside Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah and Regina Hall. She will next be seen starring with Tracy Morgan in the new TBS show, The Last O.G and just wrapped production on Universal’s, Night School, with co-star Kevin Hart. Recently, Haddish broke barriers and became the first black female stand-up comedian to host SNL. Upcoming projects she is currently developing include, Limited Partners for Paramount, and The Temp, for Universal, which she will executive produce and star in both. Haddish’s journey to success has been inspirational to many and ABFF Honors is thrilled to salute her with the “Rising Star Award,” at this year’s

Latifah, Issa Rae, Terrence Howard and filmmakers and producers Ryan Coogler, F. Gary Gray and Will Packer. The many high-profile presenters and guests have included Viola Davis, Kerry Washington, Robert Downey Jr., Jamie Foxx, Ice Cube, Cecily Tyson, Lee Daniels, Anthony Anderson, Regina Hall, Taye Diggs, Octavia Spencer, KeKe Palmer, Nia Long, Morris Chestnut, Omari Hardwick and Pharrell Williams, among others. The event is an elegant and spirited awards dinner, with a presentation of competitive awards and special honors in the following categories: Movie of the Year Award, Television Show of the Year Award (in the categories of Drama and Comedy), Hollywood Legacy Award, Industry Visionary Award, Distinguished ABFF Alumni Award and the Rising Star Award.

December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018

In just two years, ABFF Honors has become one of the most talked about Hollywood events, attracting top-tier talent and press coverage in mainstream and African American media outlets including LA Times, Essence, Variety, Deadline, Extra, and The Associated Press. The show had its broadcast premiere on BET Networks. The event is executive produced by ABFF Ventures founder Jeff Friday and Suzanne de Passe for de Passe Entertainment. For media inquiries, apply for media credentials and additional information about the 2018 ABFF Honors, please log on to www.ABFFHonors.com. Also, follow us on our social media platforms: Twitter: @ABFFHonors Facebook: American Black Film Festival Instagram: AmericanBlackFilmFestival YouTube: American Black Film Festival Hashtag: #ABFFHonors The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is an annual event dedicated to showcasing quality film and television content by and about people of African descent. The festival is committed to the belief that Black artists and content creators deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts. ABFF founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival in 1997 as a vehicle to promote diversity in the motion picture industry, and strengthen the Black filmmaking community through resource sharing, education, artistic collaboration and career development. For more than two decades, the ABFF has been the standard-bearer of excellence in independent Black cinema, having premiered the works and supported the careers of many of today’s most successful artists, including Ryan Coogler (Black Panther), Anthony Anderson (Blackish), Will Packer (Girls Trip), Issa Rae (Insecure), Omari Hardwick (Power) and Raoul Peck (I Am Not Your Negro). Today, it is the preeminent pipeline for Black talent, in front of and behind the camera, significantly expanding the range of talent in the entertainment industry at large. The ABFF is a property of ABFF Ventures LLC, a multifaceted entertainment company specializing in the production of live events, television and digital content, targeted to upscale African American audiences. The company is a joint venture between Film Life Inc. and Black Enterprise, two prominent media and event companies, each with legacies of showcasing the best of African American culture and achievement.

www.newyorktrendnyc.com | 11

T:7"

T:10"

HEADED FOR HISTORIC GAINS.

Introducing Better FuturesTM —a whole new kind of investment with a greater return than money. When you invest, it helps kids go to college. Because a mind is a terrible thing to waste but a wonderful thing to invest in.TM ©2013 UNCF

12 | NewYorkTrendnyc

Invest in Better Futures at UNCF.ORG/INVEST December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018