tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91792098693128923412024-03-25T08:52:51.125-07:00::THE SLICE REPORT WITH MONA AUSTINThe Slice News/Report is news entitty owned by Jireh Communications Group and is operated, written and or edited by a member of the working press. The content, whether editorial, exclusive or news headlines is both reliable and credible. The companion radio report airs weekly on AM and FM radio dials nationwide. The Slice News is available at www.theslicenews.com. News from the The Slice is posted on Facebook and other social media outlets to inform the public of current news items.The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comBlogger5198125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-61779055903099417882024-03-25T08:52:00.000-07:002024-03-25T08:52:06.783-07:00 THE Doors of the Church Are Still Open: Black Church attendance decline persisted past the pandemic<p><br /></p><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">(TSN): A decline in church attendance accelerated in America during the pandemic more than before. Within the Black community, like others there was a rise in online service participation. Some preferred the convenience of the virtual experience and continued after social distancing restrictions were fully lifted. </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Jason Oliver Evans is a PhD candidate in the religious studies department at the University of Virginia, said among African Americans the decline is at a slower pace than their white, Protestant counterparts.” </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The expected increase after the nation transitioned back to post-pandemic norms lagged. Lower church attendance has in some cases affected offerings and programs to support the community. </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pew Reasearch data from 2023 found a significant attendance drop among Black Protestants that is unmatched by any other major religious group. The number of Black Protestants who say they attend services monthly fell from 61% in 2019 to 46% that year, and they are the only group in which more than half (54%) attend services virtually. But, several shown Blacks attend church and pray more regularly than any bother groups </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Online service says singer and evangelist Dorinda Clark Cole is for people who are immobile but as long as your feet are working, and the doors. of the church are open, Christians should attend in person.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">At the Reclaiming Our Joy event where she was the guest speaker, she contended that staying connected to the local church is a component of spiritual growth. </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The event hosted by First Baptist Church of Manassa, VA was an effort to reinvigorate the flock and draw others to return to worship.</span>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-54564970202563388952024-03-22T17:19:00.000-07:002024-03-25T08:49:22.984-07:00DOJ sues Apple, Inc for anti-trust violations<p>The Department of Justice on Thursday announced a legal challenge against the Apple company alleging the monopolization of the smartphone market. Attorney General Merrick Garland said that the billions Apple makes off the product exceeds the GDP of a 100 countries. He criticized the creators of the iPhone for deliberately blocking other tech developers from being able to compete, a violation of the antitrust act. Consumers have also suffered the suit days by compatibility limitations. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-37334533278443889682024-03-20T05:12:00.000-07:002024-03-20T05:12:22.240-07:0090 Day Fiance Season 11 cast announcement<p> <span style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">(Los Angeles, Calif.) TLC announced a new lineup of</span><span style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"> </span><strong style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Beatrice-Bold; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">90 DAY FIANCÉ: HAPPILY EVER AFTER?</strong><span style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"> </span><span style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">couples that viewers have come to know and root for over the years. They continue to navigate the highs and lows in their relationships including everything from preparing for first impressions with the in-laws, to managing significant cultural differences, to working through turbulent family dynamics and more. These couples are kissing the honeymoon stage goodbye as they navigate the next step in their love story.</span><span style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"> </span><strong style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Beatrice-Bold; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">90 DAY FIANCÉ: HAPPILY EVER AFTER?</strong><span style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"> </span><span style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">premiered on Sunday, March 17 at 8pm ET/PT on TLC.</span></p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Over the years, the <strong style="font-family: Beatrice-Bold;">90 DAY FIANCÉ</strong> franchise has helped find love matches all over the world. The show has been filmed in 56 countries, broadcast in 216 territories and translated into 44 languages. When it comes to lasting marriages, 90 DAY FIANCÉ has a 78% success rate – higher than the national average.</p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Below are the 90 Day couples who will be featured on the upcoming season of 90 DAY FIANCÉ: HAPPILY EVER AFTER? with two more couples to be announced soon!</p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="font-family: Beatrice-Bold;">Kobe (36, Cameroon) and Emily (31, Kansas)</strong>, (Previously appeared on 90 Day Fiancé): With two kids and her parents in tow, Emily accompanies Kobe on a pilgrimage to his home country of Cameroon for the first time. Emily can’t wait to meet her husband’s family, whom she’s never met before, but soon finds herself hard pressed to prove she can be a good Cameroonian wife.</p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="font-family: Beatrice-Bold;">Alexei (35, Israel) and Loren (35, Florida)</strong>, (Previously appeared on Loren & Alexei: After The 90 Days): After having three kids in three years, Loren and Alexei are finally ready to hit the brakes on baby making. But when Loren reveals her plans for a major life overhaul, Alexei worries about losing the balance they’ve finally found. Can the couple find happiness as individuals while keeping their family together?</p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="font-family: Beatrice-Bold;">Mahmoud (31, Egypt) and Nicole (40, California)</strong>, (Previously appeared on 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way): After four years in Egypt, Nicole has returned to L.A. in hopes that she and Mahmoud can make a life together in America. As Nicole rediscovers herself in Los Angeles, how will Mahmoud cope with the huge cultural differences he’s about to face? Will they be able to find common ground or are their differences too much to overcome?</p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="font-family: Beatrice-Bold;">Thais (26, Brazil) and Patrick (33, Nevada)</strong> (Previously appeared on 90 Day Fiancé): When Thais left Brazil to be with Patrick, she hid from her family that she intended to marry him, which caused a lot of tension during their 90 days. Now the couple is traveling back to Thais’ hometown for the first time since the birth of their daughter and they hope they can mend relationships, chiefly with Thais’ father who still expects Patrick to ask for his daughter's hand in marriage. But things take a turn for the worse when Patrick’s rowdy brother John tags along on the trip and Patrick's father shows up with some unexpected demands.</p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="font-family: Beatrice-Bold;">Jasmine (36, Panama) and Gino (54, Michigan)</strong>, (Previously appeared on 90 Day Fiancé): Gino & Jasmine had a rocky 90 days and now, they both feel betrayed when certain agreements aren’t followed through on, leaving their future hanging in the balance. Will Jasmine stay in the U.S. long enough for the couple to find happiness? Or will Gino’s mistakes drive Jasmine back to Panama?</p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="font-family: Beatrice-Bold;">Liz (31, Arkansas) and Ed (58, Arkansas)</strong>, (Previously appeared on 90 Day: The Last Resort): Following a successful therapy retreat in Florida, Ed and Liz have settled in Arkansas and are planning the wedding of their dreams. But the two still have a lot to overcome, including making sure Liz’s daughter is well-adjusted in their new home, and coping with the mounting financial pressure of a move and a wedding. Will the couple finally walk down the aisle or collapse one last time?</p><p style="color: #1e1e1e; font-family: Inter-Regular; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="font-family: Beatrice-Bold;">Michael (35, Nigeria) and Angela (57, Georgia)</strong>, (Previously appeared on 90 Day: The Last Resort): After years of waiting and multiple visa denials, Michael has finally secured a make-or-break spousal visa interview. Angela joins him in Africa to prepare for the most important day of their lives. But a cascade of unsettling discoveries leaves Angela grappling with the darkest doubts she’s ever faced about her marriage. Will Michael finally get to see Georgia? Can Angela finally exorcise the demons that have shadowed their relationship. Or will she cancel the visa for good?</p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-30349806013337564022024-03-16T08:06:00.000-07:002024-03-16T08:06:15.074-07:00President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States Meeting in Atlanta<p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States (PAC-ADE) will host a plenary session meeting on Monday, March 18 at Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. The PAC-ADE will discuss 2024 priorities and review proposed recommendations, including programs to expand cultural and education exchange between Africa and the United States, and opportunities to increase participation of members of the African diaspora in the United States related to trade, investment, economic growth, and development programs relating to Africa.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none !important;">In addition to the plenary session meeting, PAC-ADE members will visit the Carter Center for a briefing on election monitoring and democracy and governance trends in Africa. Members will also participate in a private sector roundtable discussion with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on supporting the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority to increase US-Africa trade.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none !important;">All interested Atlanta-based business owners and credentialed members of the press are invited to attend the roundtable in-person or virtually <a class="yiv8604483422external-link removed-link" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #979ba7; outline: none !important; text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank"><span class="yiv8604483422external-link-title" style="outline: none !important;">here</span><span class="yiv8604483422icon-external" style="outline: none !important;"> </span></a>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none !important;">The PAC-ADE was announced by President Biden and Secretary Blinken in September 2023 to advise them on strengthening cultural, social, political, and economic ties between African communities and the African diaspora.</p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-57053815744248495842024-03-13T19:50:00.000-07:002024-03-13T19:50:51.904-07:00 IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE SLICE TO ALL PRESS AND MEDIA REGARDING GENERAL LLOYD AUSTIN <p><br /></p><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Gen. Lloyd Austin was incommunicado for several days related to a medical emergency. This does not mean he was AWOL. </span></p><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Any media or press organization that has reported he was AWOL should issue a retraction immediately. AWOL, or being away without leave, denotes that he was missing. Social media companies should flag such reporting for misinformation. The level of admission - ICU- suggests that he may not have been capable of responding. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It is important to keep in mind that his was not a normal admission. The timeframe is set during the holiday break and according to the DOD Web site Austin had no public events scheduled on the dates in question. </span></p><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We, the press, nor the public do not know Gen. Austin's frame of mind or physical condition under than to surmise that a cancer diagnosis would be disconcerting for him and his family and require a period of mental adjustment. He also had a urine infections doctors later revealed. It appears that all things considered, Austin replied in a reasonable amount of time, although it may have not been ideal. </span></p><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-73661096804296305102024-03-12T21:04:00.000-07:002024-03-12T21:04:33.344-07:00 Rep. Jamal Bowman to Lead Newly Launched Social Justice Hip Hop Task Force<p><br /></p><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="" dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="x1iorvi4 x1pi30zi x1l90r2v x1swvt13" data-ad-comet-preview="message" data-ad-preview="message" id=":r1hr:" style="font-family: inherit; padding: 4px 16px 16px;"><div class="x78zum5 xdt5ytf xz62fqu x16ldp7u" style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: -5px; margin-top: -5px;"><div class="xu06os2 x1ok221b" style="font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 5px;"><span class="x193iq5w xeuugli x13faqbe x1vvkbs x1xmvt09 x1lliihq x1s928wv xhkezso x1gmr53x x1cpjm7i x1fgarty x1943h6x xudqn12 x3x7a5m x6prxxf xvq8zen xo1l8bm xzsf02u x1yc453h" dir="auto" style="color: var(--primary-text); display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.9375rem; line-height: 1.3333; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">By Mona Austin</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">(TSN): Rep. Jamal Bowman of New York announced at the Capitol on Wednesday that he is spearheading a Hip Hop task force to collectively engage in the pursuit of social justice. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">There has long been division between the Hip Hop community which often represents the voice of marginalized people and the political decision-making <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit;" tabindex="-1"></a></span>authorities that neglect them. The Task Force is a vehicle to merge that disconnection to ignite action on a broad range of issues that plague society. Bowman wants to amplify the concerns of minorities and augment artist activism via the taskforce. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">"This is what Hip Hop has been about from the very beginning. It's always been about justice. It's always been about legislation. It's always been about holding us accountable," Bowman said pointing to himself as a lawmaker. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Midlevel", sans-serif; font-size: 17px; white-space-collapse: collapse;">Dubbed </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Midlevel", sans-serif; font-size: 17px; white-space-collapse: collapse;">the Congressional Hip Hop Power and Justice Task Force, the </span> goal of the group in addition influencing policies related to police reform and o civic education and getting attention on poverty, fair housing and a bevy of other issues </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Over its 50 year existence Hip Hop artists have shed light on the realities of struggling people, consistently delivering musical protest against "the system," while incorporating messages to condemn injustice and inequality. Whether the issue is poverty, freedom, or mass incarceration the task force will elevate consciousness about the inequalities among minorty communities working in non-partisan way. While there are no Republicans on the the congressional steering, they are welcome to join. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">"It's about the consciousness and about humanity. You don't have to political use thus and if you do that's on you," said Prophet, an artist who spoke at the press conference. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Hip Hop artists with various political views such as Kanye West, Killer Mike, T.I., Cardi B, Ice Cube and more have been known to engage in political discussions and promoted voting and civic engagement. Yet, Bowman assured reporters that the focus is not about bringing attention to celebrities. Rather, he said, "This is about harnessing a culture that has already changed the world. That's already done so much for Civil Rights. That's already put people like me and Leader Jeffries in these Congressiional seats."</div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Fellow New York Congressman and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has been recognized in the past for his leadership by Grammys on the Bill for his work to protect artists rights. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Groups like The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC), the Recording Academy and the Black Music Collective have also joined forces with Bowman and Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) in calling for the passage of the Restoring Artistic Protection (RAP) Act, a bill that would limit the admissibility of an artist’s creative or artistic expression against them in court. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Thus effort continues the energy Build political power at a level that has never nlbeen done bedore.</div></div></span></div></div></div></div><div class="x1n2onr6" id=":r1hs:" style="font-family: inherit; position: relative;"><div class="x1n2onr6" style="font-family: inherit; position: relative;"><a class="x1i10hfl x1qjc9v5 xjbqb8w xjqpnuy xa49m3k xqeqjp1 x2hbi6w x13fuv20 xu3j5b3 x1q0q8m5 x26u7qi x972fbf xcfux6l x1qhh985 xm0m39n x9f619 x1ypdohk xdl72j9 x2lah0s xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x2lwn1j xeuugli xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x1n2onr6 x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1ja2u2z x1t137rt x1o1ewxj x3x9cwd x1e5q0jg x13rtm0m x1q0g3np x87ps6o x1lku1pv x1a2a7pz x1lliihq x1pdlv7q" href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10232322120375093&set=a.1205824505216&__cft__[0]=AZU1-grvfRdBipi3lvHtMUxALfF7AdmEgKnxligVsJlU5ig-McMzfbZXtsnZbdKeZcSret_uZqLPTdi7t8YZcHd_eh1z9JzPVq68s0AVXxkwAAGPtK075oohYY6nib0XeE1bLvpV_jre03H2GPSTvohmOa3yQ_WIyoGf9z_ebeppxa2cNS5JNQAneod7R04QEW8&__tn__=EH-R" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; align-items: stretch; border-bottom-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-left-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-radius: inherit; border-right-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-style: solid; border-top-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #385898; cursor: pointer; display: block; flex-basis: auto; flex-direction: row; flex-shrink: 0; font-family: inherit; list-style: none; margin: 0px; min-height: 0px; min-width: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation; user-select: none; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><div class="x6s0dn4 x1jx94hy x78zum5 xdt5ytf x6ikm8r x10wlt62 x1n2onr6 xh8yej3" style="align-items: center; background-color: black; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: inherit; overflow: hidden; position: relative; width: 680px;"><div style="font-family: inherit; max-width: 100%; min-width: 500px; width: calc(-237.431px + 73.0556vh);"><div class="xqtp20y x6ikm8r x10wlt62 x1n2onr6" style="font-family: inherit; height: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding-top: 684.406px; position: relative;"><div class="x10l6tqk x13vifvy" style="font-family: inherit; height: 684.406px; left: 0px; position: absolute; top: 0px; width: 500px;"><img alt="May be an image of 2 people and text" class="x1ey2m1c xds687c x5yr21d x10l6tqk x17qophe x13vifvy xh8yej3 xl1xv1r" height="720" referrerpolicy="origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/427488110_10232322120775103_5101406636094188646_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_p526x296&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3635dc&_nc_ohc=xkHYKOKKDG8AX8hrvMV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfATeDLTOV0ahaUGaasmHLqjzI9Mhks2kEBcjnMznXM4UQ&oe=65D906E9" style="border: 0px; height: 684.406px; inset: 0px; object-fit: cover; position: absolute; width: 500px;" width="526" /></div></div></div></div><div class="xua58t2 xzg4506 x1ey2m1c xds687c x47corl x10l6tqk x17qophe x13vifvy" style="border-bottom: 1px solid var(--media-inner-border); border-top: 1px solid var(--media-inner-border); 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min-height: 0px; min-width: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: inherit; touch-action: none; user-select: none; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><div class="x9f619 x1n2onr6 x1ja2u2z x78zum5 x1r8uery x1iyjqo2 xs83m0k xeuugli xl56j7k x6s0dn4 xozqiw3 x1q0g3np xn6708d x1ye3gou xexx8yu xcud41i x139jcc6 x4cne27 xifccgj xn3w4p2 xuxw1ft" style="align-items: center; box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-flow: row; flex: 1 1 0px; font-family: inherit; height: 44px; justify-content: center; margin: -6px -4px; min-width: 0px; padding-left: 12px; padding-right: 12px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative; text-wrap: nowrap; z-index: 0;"><div class="x9f619 x1n2onr6 x1ja2u2z x78zum5 xdt5ytf x2lah0s x193iq5w xeuugli x150jy0e x1e558r4 x10b6aqq x1yrsyyn" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-shrink: 0; font-family: inherit; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; padding: 6px 4px; position: relative; z-index: 0;"><span class="x3nfvp2" style="display: inline-flex; font-family: inherit;"><i class="x1b0d499 x1d69dk1" data-visualcompletion="css-img" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/rsrc.php/v3/y_/r/MSelyWiUxw1.png"); background-position: 0px -760px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: auto; display: inline-block; filter: var(--filter-secondary-icon); height: 20px; vertical-align: -0.25em; width: 20px;"></i></span></div><div class="x9f619 x1n2onr6 x1ja2u2z x78zum5 xdt5ytf x2lah0s x193iq5w xeuugli x150jy0e x1e558r4 x10b6aqq x1yrsyyn" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-shrink: 0; font-family: inherit; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; padding: 6px 4px; position: relative; z-index: 0;"><span class="x193iq5w xeuugli x13faqbe x1vvkbs x1xmvt09 x1lliihq x1s928wv xhkezso x1gmr53x x1cpjm7i x1fgarty x1943h6x xudqn12 x3x7a5m x6prxxf xvq8zen x1s688f xi81zsa" dir="auto" style="color: var(--secondary-text); display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.9375rem; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.3333; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Like</span></span></div></div><div class="x1ey2m1c xds687c x17qophe xg01cxk x47corl x10l6tqk x13vifvy x1ebt8du x19991ni x1dhq9h x1o1ewxj x3x9cwd x1e5q0jg x13rtm0m" data-visualcompletion="ignore" role="none" style="border-radius: inherit; font-family: inherit; inset: 0px; opacity: 0; pointer-events: none; position: absolute; transition-duration: var(--fds-duration-extra-extra-short-out); transition-property: opacity; transition-timing-function: var(--fds-animation-fade-out);"></div></div><div aria-label="React" class="x1i10hfl x1qjc9v5 xjbqb8w xjqpnuy xa49m3k xqeqjp1 x2hbi6w x13fuv20 xu3j5b3 x1q0q8m5 x26u7qi x972fbf xcfux6l x1qhh985 xm0m39n x9f619 x1ypdohk xdl72j9 x2lah0s xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x2lwn1j xeuugli x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg x1ja2u2z x1t137rt x1o1ewxj x3x9cwd x1e5q0jg x13rtm0m x3nfvp2 x1q0g3np x87ps6o x1lku1pv x1a2a7pz x4r51d9 x1d0ri9u x4uap5 x1ug4tga xkhd6sd xnfr1j xzpqnlu x179tack x10l6tqk x5ve5x3" role="button" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; align-items: stretch; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-left-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-radius: inherit; border-right-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-style: solid; border-top-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clip-path: polygon(0px 0px, 0px 0px, 0px 0px, 0px 0px); clip: rect(0px, 0px, 0px, 0px); cursor: pointer; display: inline-flex; flex-basis: auto; flex-direction: row; flex-shrink: 0; font-family: inherit; list-style: none; margin: 0px; min-height: 0px; min-width: 0px; outline: none; padding: 13px 0px; position: absolute; right: 6px; text-align: inherit; top: 1px; touch-action: none; user-select: none; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><i class="x1b0d499 x1d69dk1" data-visualcompletion="css-img" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/rsrc.php/v3/yh/r/hcEW2yW6bcK.png"); background-position: 0px -857px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: auto; display: inline-block; filter: var(--filter-secondary-icon); height: 16px; vertical-align: -0.25em; width: 16px;"></i><div class="x1ey2m1c xds687c x17qophe xg01cxk x47corl x10l6tqk x13vifvy x1ebt8du x19991ni x1dhq9h x1o1ewxj x3x9cwd x1e5q0jg x13rtm0m" data-visualcompletion="ignore" role="none" style="border-radius: inherit; font-family: inherit; inset: 0px; opacity: 0; pointer-events: none; position: absolute; transition-duration: var(--fds-duration-extra-extra-short-out); transition-property: opacity; transition-timing-function: var(--fds-animation-fade-out);"></div></div></div><div class="x9f619 x1n2onr6 x1ja2u2z x78zum5 xdt5ytf x193iq5w xeuugli x1r8uery x1iyjqo2 xs83m0k xg83lxy x1h0ha7o x10b6aqq x1yrsyyn" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex: 1 1 0px; font-family: inherit; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; padding: 6px 2px; position: relative; z-index: 0;"><div aria-label="Leave a comment" class="x1i10hfl x1qjc9v5 xjbqb8w xjqpnuy xa49m3k xqeqjp1 x2hbi6w x13fuv20 xu3j5b3 x1q0q8m5 x26u7qi x972fbf xcfux6l x1qhh985 xm0m39n x9f619 x1ypdohk xdl72j9 x2lah0s xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x2lwn1j xeuugli xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x1n2onr6 x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1ja2u2z x1t137rt x1o1ewxj x3x9cwd x1e5q0jg x13rtm0m x3nfvp2 x1q0g3np x87ps6o x1lku1pv x1a2a7pz" role="button" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; align-items: stretch; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-left-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-radius: inherit; border-right-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-style: solid; border-top-color: var(--always-dark-overlay); border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline-flex; flex-basis: auto; flex-direction: row; flex-shrink: 0; font-family: inherit; list-style: none; margin: 0px; min-height: 0px; min-width: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: inherit; touch-action: manipulation; user-select: none; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><div class="x9f619 x1n2onr6 x1ja2u2z x78zum5 x1r8uery x1iyjqo2 xs83m0k xeuugli xl56j7k x6s0dn4 xozqiw3 x1q0g3np xn6708d x1ye3gou xexx8yu xcud41i x139jcc6 x4cne27 xifccgj xn3w4p2 xuxw1ft" style="align-items: center; box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-flow: row; flex: 1 1 0px; font-family: inherit; height: 44px; justify-content: center; 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max-width: 100%; min-width: 100%; outline: none !important; width: 100%;"><tbody style="outline: none !important;"><tr style="outline: none !important;"><td class="yiv2784529012mcnTextContent" style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times, "New serif"; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px 18px 9px; word-break: normal;" valign="top"><div dir="ltr" style="outline: none !important;"><p style="line-height: 17.5px; margin: 10px 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="line-height: 17.5px; margin: 10px 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">WASHINGTON, D.C.</strong> – First Lady Jill Biden will welcome guests to join her in the viewing box for President Biden’s State of the Union Address on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Each of these individuals were invited by the White House because they personify issues or themes to be addressed by the President in his speech, or they embody the Biden-Harris Administration’s policies at work for the American people. The Second Gentleman, Mr. Douglas Emhoff, will also join the First Lady in the viewing box.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" />The following individuals, listed in alphabetical order, will be seated in the box with the First Lady and Second Gentleman:<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Latorya Beasley (Birmingham, Alabama)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Beasley and her husband had their first child through in vitro fertilization (IVF) in 2022 and were in the process of expanding their family through another round of IVF when her embryo transfer was abruptly canceled as a result of the recent Alabama Supreme Court decision. Her recent experience is yet another example of how the overturning of <em style="outline: none !important;">Roe v. Wade </em>has disrupted access to reproductive health care for women and families across the country.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Kris Blackley (Fort Mill, South Carolina)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Blackley is an oncology nurse and the Director of Patient Navigation for the Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, part of Advocate Health. She has published research related to patient navigation showing improved outcomes, including decreased readmissions, increased treatment compliance, and equity in care. In 2023, the Biden Cancer Moonshot announced new actions to expand access to patient navigation services — services that help guide individuals, caregivers, and families through cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. In February 2023, the First Lady visited Atrium Health, where Blackley shared how the health system plans to bring patient navigation services to more cancer patients and their loved ones as a result of the Biden-Harris Administration’s actions.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Jazmin Cazares (Uvalde, Texas)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Cazares is a leading advocate for gun violence prevention at the state and national level. After her sister Jackie was killed in the shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, Cazares spent her senior year of high school traveling across the country and sharing Jackie’s story. She spoke alongside March for Our Lives leaders at the Texas State Capitol and testified before lawmakers to advocate for tighter background checks and extreme risk protection order laws. In 2023, Cazares was honored by the First Lady during the first-ever “Girls Leading Change” celebration at the White House.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Kate Cox (Dallas, Texas)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Cox is a mother of two from Texas who has experienced the devastating consequences of state abortion bans and courageously spoke out about her experience seeking the care she needed to preserve her health. Cox is one of the first women in 50 years to have to turn to the courts to ask permission to receive the abortion that her doctor recommended. She was ultimately forced to travel out of state for care that she would have been able to receive if the protections of <em style="outline: none !important;">Roe v. Wade</em> were still in effect. <br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Samantha Ervin-Upsher (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Ervin-Upsher is an apprentice with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 432 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is 23 years old and a mother of two. In 2023, Ervin-Upsher met the First Lady during a visit to Pennsylvania to highlight the Investing in America Workforce Hub in Pittsburgh, an initiative that seeks to build career pathways through high schools, community colleges, and unions to job opportunities fueled by President’s Biden’s investments.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Shawn Fain (Metro Detroit, Michigan) </strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Fain is a 29-year member and the current President of the United Auto Workers (UAW). Hailing from a family of UAW members, Fain got his start with UAW Local Union 1166 as an electrician for Chrysler at the Kokomo Casting Plant in his hometown of Kokomo, Indiana. In September 2023, President Biden joined Fain and UAW workers on the picket line in Belleville, Michigan, making history as the first sitting President to join a picket line. After hard-fought negotiations and a “Stand-Up” strike that inspired workers across the country, the UAW won historic pay increases, greater retirement security, more paid leave, and more dignity and respect. Their efforts also yielded job security commitments from General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis, including a commitment from Stellantis to bring thousands of good-paying UAW jobs back to Belvidere, Illinois. The UAW’s historic contract immediately led non-union automakers to announce double digit pay raises for their U.S. workers – adding further evidence that when unions do well, all workers do well.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Bettie Mae Fikes (Selma, Alabama)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Fikes is an American singer and civil rights advocate who was a Bloody Sunday Foot Soldier in Selma, Alabama in 1965. Known as “The Voice of Selma,” Fikes served as a member of Selma’s Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) Freedom Singers. She has performed at Carnegie Hall, Newport Jazz Festival, the Library of Congress, and was featured in the Smithsonian Institute’s Museum of Tolerance exhibition honoring women of the Civil Rights Movement. In 2023, Fikes joined President Biden to commemorate the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama. This year’s State of the Union Address falls on the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Steven Hadfield (Matthews, North Carolina)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Hadfield has a rare blood cancer and is diabetic—two conditions that require very expensive drugs, including a drug that was selected for the first round of Medicare drug price negotiation. He held several part-time positions because he feared that, if he retired, he would not have sufficient income to pay for the drugs he needs to stay alive. The drug that treats his rare blood cancer costs about $15,000 a month. On top of that, his insulin costs him up to $400 every month. Now, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare covers his insulin prescriptions with a $35 copay cap per month. And for his blood cancer medications, this year, his Part D out-of-pocket drug costs are capped at about $3,500 and in 2025, he will benefit even more from the $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Mayor Garnett L. Johnson (Augusta, Georgia)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Johnson is the Mayor of the City of Augusta, Georgia. In 2023, Augusta was designated by the White House as one of five Investing in America Workforce Hubs, where President Biden’s agenda — including the American Rescue Plan, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act — is driving historic investments and creating good-paying jobs. The Augusta Workforce Hub is led by a partnership between Mayor Johnson and three Augusta regional education institutions focused on training students in growing sectors, such as advanced manufacturing and construction skilled trades, to prepare the next generation for technical jobs in the region. The First Lady was last in Augusta in July and November 2023, to meet with Mayor Johnson and highlight how the local community is working together to expand pathways to careers. <br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Keenan Jones (Plymouth, Minnesota)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Jones is a public middle school educator in Minnesota’s Twin Cities and a member of Education Minnesota. In April 2023, Jones wrote an email to President Biden to thank him for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which eliminated his remaining student loan debt after 10 years of public service and allowed him to continue his teaching career. Jones is one of the nearly 800,000 teachers, nurses, social workers, servicemembers, and other public servants who have received student loan debt forgiveness since the start of the Biden-Harris Administration.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Natalie King (Detroit, Michigan)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />King is the founder and CEO of Dunamis Charge, the first-ever African American women-owned electric vehicle charger manufacturing company in the United States. Her company employs over 135 workers and is on track to manufacture 400,000 electric vehicle chargers by 2025. In March 2023, King introduced President Biden at the Small Business Administration’s Women’s Business Summit, where she shared that the Administration’s investments in clean energy and small business owners helped her business thrive throughout the pandemic.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson of Sweden</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Kristersson is the Prime Minister of Sweden. Sweden is formally joining the NATO Alliance on March 7, 2024, becoming the 32nd Ally. Sweden is a strong democracy with a highly capable military that shares our values and vision for the world. Having Sweden as a NATO Ally will make the United States and our Allies even safer. NATO is the most powerful defensive alliance in the history of the world, and it is as critical today to ensuring the security of our citizens as it was 75 years ago when our Alliance was founded out of the wreckage of World War II.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Governor Stephen Roe Lewis (Gu-u-Ki, Sacaton, Arizona)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Lewis is serving in his fourth term as governor of the Gila River Indian Community. Under his leadership, he has prioritized bringing innovative solutions to long-term issues confronted by the Community and Indian Country. In partnership with the Biden-Harris Administration, Governor Lewis has revolutionized how Tribal governmental infrastructure is constructed, which led to the completion of the first new schools on the Reservation in over 100 years and the first solar-over-canal project in the Western Hemisphere.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Commander Shelby Nikitin (Wakefield, Massachusetts)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Commander Nikitin is an officer in the U.S. Navy and recently completed her command tour onboard the USS THOMAS HUDNER. Under her leadership, the ship deployed to protect maritime shipping from illegal, dangerous, and destabilizing Houthi attacks against vessels transiting the Red Sea. For her ship’s actions in this combat zone, Commander Nikitin was awarded the Bronze Star for her extraordinary leadership and bravery in defending lives and protecting the free flow of commerce in one of the world’s most critical waterways.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Justin Phillips (Indianapolis, Indiana)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Phillips is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Overdose Lifeline, a non-profit dedicated to reducing the stigma of substance use disorder and preventing deaths resulting from opioid and fentanyl overdose. Since starting Overdose Lifeline, Phillips has led the organization through program expansion to meet the growing needs of the population. Phillips worked to pass “Aaron’s Law” in Indiana and focuses her advocacy on expanding access to overdose prevention medications. Aaron’s Law allows individuals access to Narcan without a prescription, thus eliminating barriers to receiving the drug and using it to save lives. The Second Gentleman met Phillips and her daughter, Audrey, in 2023 at an event commemorating International Overdose Awareness Day, where the Administration announced additional federal funds to combat accidental overdoses. Phillips is a special guest of Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Kameryn Pupunu (Lahaina, Hawaii)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Pupunu is a police officer for the county of Maui where he has served for the last five years. In August 2023, his hometown of Lahaina was engulfed in flames during one of the deadliest wildfires in U.S history. Pupunu was one of the many local police officers who performed heroic acts, including saving 15 individuals, from this deadly wildfire. Tragically, Pupunu lost four of his immediate family members to these fires.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Maria Shriver (Los Angeles, California)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Shriver is an author, journalist, and founder of the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement and Strategic Advisor on Women’s Health and Alzheimer’s at Cleveland Clinic. Shriver works to use her voice and platforms to advance some of our nation’s most pressing issues affecting women and women’s health. In November 2023, Shriver joined the President and the First Lady to announce the first-ever White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research, an effort led by Dr. Biden and the White House Gender Policy Council, to galvanize the federal government and the private and philanthropic sectors to spur innovation, unleash transformative investment to close research gaps, and improve women’s health. Shriver’s advocacy has been integral to the initiative and she continues to advise and collaborate with Dr. Biden.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Dawn Simms (Davis Junction, Illinois)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Simms is a member of United Auto Workers Local 126 and third-generation autoworker on the Belvidere, Illinois assembly line. When Stellantis shuttered their local auto plant in February 2023, her son had just started his junior year in high school and she feared she may need to relocate her family. The historic UAW-Big Three contract secured with Stellantis reopened the plant in Belvidere and saved jobs, stabilizing her family. Today, she is gainfully employed at Belvidere's auto distribution center, waiting to return to the new auto plant once it is finished. In November 2023, Simms joined President Biden in Belvidere to mark the reopening of the assembly plant and the return of 1,200 jobs and higher wages. <br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Rashawn Spivey (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Spivey is the founder and owner of Hero Plumbing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His decision to become a plumber was inspired by his mother, who worked for one of the first Black-owned plumbing businesses in Wisconsin. After graduating from a plumbing program at Milwaukee Area Technical College and completing an apprenticeship with Plumbers Local 75, support from his local union enabled Spivey to launch his own plumbing business. Spurred by investments from the Biden-Harris Administration, Spivey expanded his plumbing business to focus on lead pipe replacements. Spivey and his team have replaced more than 825 toxic lead pipes, primarily at local daycare centers, to ensure safer drinking water for his community and protect children from lead poisoning. Through historic levels of funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan, the Biden-Harris Administration is working to replace every lead pipe in America in the next decade.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Tiffany Zoeller (Fayetteville, North Carolina)</strong><br style="outline: none !important;" />Zoeller is a military spouse and works as a medical coder at Fort Liberty’s Womack Army Medical Center. In June 2023, Zoeller introduced the President at Fort Liberty to announce the Presidential Executive Order on Advancing Economic Security for Military and Veteran Spouses, Military Caregivers, and Survivors. This Executive Order is the most comprehensive set of administrative actions any President has ever taken to support military spouses, and included nearly 20 new actions aimed at enhancing military spouse career stability, employment resources, and career transition assistance. The First Lady, through her <em style="outline: none !important;">Joining Forces</em> initiative, has worked to eliminate barriers to employment and increase economic opportunity for military and veteran families, caregivers, and survivors.</p><p style="line-height: 17.5px; margin: 10px 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="yiv2784529012mcnTextBlock" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; outline: none !important; width: 100%;"><tbody class="yiv2784529012mcnTextBlockOuter" style="outline: none !important;"></tbody></table></td></tr><tr style="outline: none !important;"><td id="yiv2784529012templateFooter" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: center center; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: cover; border-bottom: 1px none; 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flex-shrink: 1; outline: none !important;"></span><hr class="M_0 P_0 cn_0" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;" /><br /></div></div></div></div>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-83078725732328335272024-03-07T14:47:00.000-08:002024-03-07T14:47:28.764-08:00 DON'T TAKE THE JOB UNLESS YOU ARE QUALIFIED<p><br /></p><p style="--artdeco-reset-typography_getfontsize: 1.6rem; --artdeco-reset-typography_getlineheight: 1.5; background-color: white; border: var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero); box-sizing: inherit; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9); counter-reset: list-1 0 list-2 0 list-3 0 list-4 0 list-5 0 list-6 0 list-7 0 list-8 0 list-9 0; cursor: text; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: var(--artdeco-reset-typography_getLineHeight); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline); white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></p><p style="--artdeco-reset-typography_getfontsize: 1.6rem; --artdeco-reset-typography_getlineheight: 1.5; background-color: white; border: var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero); box-sizing: inherit; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9); counter-reset: list-1 0 list-2 0 list-3 0 list-4 0 list-5 0 list-6 0 list-7 0 list-8 0 list-9 0; cursor: text; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: var(--artdeco-reset-typography_getLineHeight); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline); white-space-collapse: preserve;">*THIS IS NOT A POLITICAL MESSAGE* </p><p style="--artdeco-reset-typography_getfontsize: 1.6rem; --artdeco-reset-typography_getlineheight: 1.5; background-color: white; border: var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero); box-sizing: inherit; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9); counter-reset: list-1 0 list-2 0 list-3 0 list-4 0 list-5 0 list-6 0 list-7 0 list-8 0 list-9 0; cursor: text; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: var(--artdeco-reset-typography_getLineHeight); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline); white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></p><p style="--artdeco-reset-typography_getfontsize: 1.6rem; --artdeco-reset-typography_getlineheight: 1.5; background-color: white; border: var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero); box-sizing: inherit; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9); counter-reset: list-1 0 list-2 0 list-3 0 list-4 0 list-5 0 list-6 0 list-7 0 list-8 0 list-9 0; cursor: text; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: var(--artdeco-reset-typography_getLineHeight); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline); white-space-collapse: preserve;">Let's be honest. A wise person once said, "You can't teach what you don't know nor lead where you don't go." Just because you are in a prominent space does not always mean you deserve to be. Some people have a connection that opened the door and let them in. Some people snuck in through the cracks. Some manipulated their way into positions, perhaps through falsifying applications. And some have gotten to where they are due to affirmative action (I am not referring to those who ARE qualified, but those who were hired mainly to meet a quota). If any of these things apply to you, please humble yourself, check your ego and learn how to meet or exceed standards on the job. KNOW YOUR STUFF so that you do not have to hide behind anyone or anything! The hook up and "fake it 'til you make it culture" has entered very high spaces in the media/press and some of the people in the jobs have poor attitudes, but more importantly are evidently not qualified. </p><p style="--artdeco-reset-typography_getfontsize: 1.6rem; --artdeco-reset-typography_getlineheight: 1.5; background-color: white; border: var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero); box-sizing: inherit; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9); counter-reset: list-1 0 list-2 0 list-3 0 list-4 0 list-5 0 list-6 0 list-7 0 list-8 0 list-9 0; cursor: text; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: var(--artdeco-reset-typography_getLineHeight); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline); white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></p><p style="--artdeco-reset-typography_getfontsize: 1.6rem; --artdeco-reset-typography_getlineheight: 1.5; background-color: white; border: var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero); box-sizing: inherit; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9); counter-reset: list-1 0 list-2 0 list-3 0 list-4 0 list-5 0 list-6 0 list-7 0 list-8 0 list-9 0; cursor: text; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: var(--artdeco-reset-typography_getLineHeight); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline); white-space-collapse: preserve;">For example, I have recently heard so much political misinformation on certain Black media platforms in particular that I have opted not to listen. Voters are getting plastered with opinions instead of facts. The people in question are clearly friends with the host or "liked" by the host and are clearly NOT subject matter experts. This tendency to be an imposter or simply opportunistic is certainly not just race specific. The instances that come to mind recently involved people in Black media working in various capacities. To compensate for their lack of knowledge they fill in with extra personality, humor, or throw around their title or coldly cancel others. </p><p style="--artdeco-reset-typography_getfontsize: 1.6rem; --artdeco-reset-typography_getlineheight: 1.5; background-color: white; border: var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero); box-sizing: inherit; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9); counter-reset: list-1 0 list-2 0 list-3 0 list-4 0 list-5 0 list-6 0 list-7 0 list-8 0 list-9 0; cursor: text; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: var(--artdeco-reset-typography_getLineHeight); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline); white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></p><p style="--artdeco-reset-typography_getfontsize: 1.6rem; --artdeco-reset-typography_getlineheight: 1.5; background-color: white; border: var(--artdeco-reset-base-border-zero); box-sizing: inherit; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9); counter-reset: list-1 0 list-2 0 list-3 0 list-4 0 list-5 0 list-6 0 list-7 0 list-8 0 list-9 0; cursor: text; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: var(--artdeco-reset-typography_getLineHeight); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: var(--artdeco-reset-base-vertical-align-baseline); white-space-collapse: preserve;">I am also seeing this in restaurant situation where there is a language barrier. Non-English speakers are working in most of the jobs in my area and I have repeatedly had to return to places for mistakes. When the rules are bent it is frustrating for everyone. Either sharpen your tools/knowledge or avoid speaking on things you do not know or doing tasks that you have to figure out. Be teachable and honest enough to admit when you do not know something so that you are not causing everyone on the ship to sink. The person in the capacity of hiring should also be accountable for job placement decisions. </p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-33688042364350365972024-03-05T20:01:00.000-08:002024-03-05T20:01:16.576-08:00 Why the U.S NOT Calling for a Full Ceasefire Is Strategic<p><br /></p><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">(TSN): On Feb 20 at a United Nations gathering U S. Ambassador Linda Thomas Greenfield was the lone vote against a ceasefire in the Israel-Palestine war in international community. As someone who is gravely aware of the atrocities of the war, she offered a clear explanation as to why the Y.S. is not prepared to call for the end of the war. The reason is that the hostage negotiation would be at stake even moreso. As VIce Pres. Haras reiterated on Sunday on Selma the US will support a temporary ceasefire. In reading between the lines you will see in Greenfield's response that the risk would be losing the communication that is currentlly happening. She said, "We cannot support a resolution that would put sensitive negotiations in jeopardy, we look forward to engaging on a text that we believe will address so many of the concerns we all share: A text that can and should be adopted by the Council, so that we can have a temporary ceasefire as soon as practicable, based on the formula of all hostages being released.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">This temporary ceasefire is critical to getting aid into the hands of Palestinian civilians who desperately, desperately need it.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">We should look towards this text so that we can finally, finally, condemn Hamas for their horrific attacks on October 7, which set this conflict into motion; so that we can empower Senior Coordinator Kaag and the United Nations, because her success, is the UN’s success; and it is so very needed to ensure civilians get the aid that they need, more efficiently and effectively, and just more, period. And so that, ultimately, we can together help create a future in which Israelis and Palestinians live in states of their own, side by side, in peace."</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The situation is extremely sensitive and.thus is the best approach according to our security team.</span>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-20701097839465608612024-03-05T20:00:00.000-08:002024-03-05T20:00:28.001-08:00 FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces New Actions to Lower Costs for Americans by Fighting Corporate Rip-Offs<p><br /></p><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times, "New serif"; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;"> </span><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times, "New serif"; font-size: 14px; outline: none !important;"><div style="outline: none !important; text-align: center;"><em style="outline: none !important;">Launch of Strike Force on Unfair and Illegal Pricing; New Actions to Slash Credit Card Late Fees, Combat High Internet Costs, and Support Small Farmers; And New Report Showing That Administration Efforts to Eliminate Junk Fees Will Save Over $20 Billion Annually</em></div> <br style="outline: none !important;" />President Biden is laser focused on lowering costs for hardworking Americans by taking action to end corporate rip-offs and other unfair practices that keep prices high. Under the President’s leadership, agencies across the Administration are working to promote competition, protect consumers, and lower prices by implementing the President’s <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=867b097e6d&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American Economy</a>.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">Today, President Biden will launch a new Strike Force to crack down on unfair and illegal pricing.</strong> President Biden is committed to making sure corporations are held accountable when they try to rip off Americans, including when they break the law while keeping prices high. To that end, the President is establishing a new Strike Force on Unfair and Illegal Pricing co-chaired by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This Strike Force will strengthen interagency efforts to root out and stop illegal corporate behavior that hikes prices on American families through anti-competitive, unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent business practices. DOJ and FTC, along with other agencies on the Strike Force, will focus their collaborative efforts on key sectors where corporations may be violating the law and keeping prices high, including prescription drugs and health care, food and grocery, housing, financial services, and more.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> <br style="outline: none !important;" /><strong style="outline: none !important;">At its sixth meeting, President Biden’s Competition Council will announce three new actions to promote competition and lower costs and release a new report showing that the Administration’s work to eliminate junk fees will save Americans more than $20 billion each year:</strong><ul style="outline: none !important;"><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Ending excessive credit card late fees</strong>. Today, The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) finalized a <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=00f112c215&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">rule</a> to slash credit card late fees from the current average of $32 down to $8, saving consumers $10 billion a year, or an average savings of $220 per year for the more than 45 million people who are charged these late fees annually. For too long, surprise and hidden late fees have burdened consumers. By closing the loophole that has allowed companies to charge these excessive late fees, today’s action will not only save consumers billions of dollars but promote fair and competitive markets. It builds off of steps the CFPB has already taken to crack down on junk fees in the banking sector, including fees for basic customer services and moving to curb overdraft fees and bounced check fees. In addition, the CFPB has found that <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=51b2a53046&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">credit card interest rate margins</a> have climbed to an all-time high and <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=21c98b2442&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">big banks are charging more in interest</a> than smaller banks.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Saving consumers more than $20 billion in junk fees.</strong> A new <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=4e2807aae2&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">blog</a> published today by the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) finds that actions from the Biden-Harris Administration will help eliminate more than $20 billion in junk fees annually going forward. Analysis of a number of major sectors across the economy show that consumers pay $90 billion in junk fees every year, including on live event tickets, internet and cable fees, apartment rentals, banking fees, auto dealer fees, and more. The CEA analysis cites extensive literature that indicates fees dripped in throughout the purchasing process after the consumer has already made decisions about what to buy make it difficult to comparison shop, disadvantage businesses that don’t want to employ junk fees, and lead to consumers paying more.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Cracking down on bulk billing junk fees to lower costs and promote competition. </strong>The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is circulating a proposed <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=a0149bb5f8&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">rule</a> that would lower costs and increase choice for consumers by banning “bulk billing” arrangements, a practice by which landlords or providers charge everyone living or working in a building for a particular internet, cable, or satellite service, even if they don’t want it or haven’t opted in. These arrangements limit consumer choice by preventing tenants from choosing the services at the price point and level that are best for their needs, and can impose fees for unnecessary services and deter competition. In addition, the proposed rule seeks to address other exclusive arrangements between service providers and landlords that impede competition and drive-up prices, such as exclusive wiring arrangements, exclusive marketing arrangements, and certain revenue sharing agreements.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Promoting competitive agricultural markets and ensuring fairness for farmers and ranchers. </strong>Fair competition is key to making sure America’s food markets operate effectively and producers and consumers have robust choices and opportunity. Today, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) finalized a <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=7cb2fb9a67&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">rule</a> to protect the farmers and ranchers who produce meat and poultry by cracking down on processing companies’ deceptive contracts, banning retaliatory practices that prevent small producers from raising concerns or coming together in associations, and protecting certain producers from discrimination. USDA’s work across the agricultural supply chain helps support more competition, which can lower food prices.</li></ul><strong style="outline: none !important;">Today’s announcements build on far-reaching work the Competition Council has undertaken during the seven months since its last meeting, including:</strong><ul style="outline: none !important;"><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Cracking down on junk fees that cost consumers $90 billion each year. </strong><a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=565fcaa5ea&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">The FTC has proposed a rule</a> that, if finalized as proposed, would ban companies from charging hidden and surprise junk fees and require that prices are listed upfront when consumers make purchases. In addition, <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=fe2d7ed93e&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">the FTC finalized a rule</a> to ban auto dealers from using bait-and-switch tactics to deceive consumers and to stop auto dealers from charging hidden junk fees for services that provide no additional value. The <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=ed607f5900&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">Department of Labor also proposed a rule</a> that would reduce junk fees in retirement products and help ensure that the financial advice that Americans get about their retirement is in their best interest. Finally, the <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=c422dc6bcc&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">FCC proposed a rule</a> to ban early termination fees for cable and satellite operators, and <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=dc8b7ddbcc&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">later this month will vote to finalize a rule</a> to mandate all-in pricing for cable and satellite services.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Prohibiting financial product comparison shopping tools from steering consumers to products based on kickbacks. </strong>The CFPB <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=728af2c712&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">issued a circular</a> stating that companies that provide consumers with comparison shopping tools—say for a credit card, loan, or bank account—are prohibited from steering consumers to products or lenders because they are receiving a kickback. Individuals often use these sites thinking they are receiving unbiased comparisons; manipulated results makes it difficult for consumers to honestly evaluate products, and may result in choosing a less advantageous product.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Promoting competition in food and grocery markets.</strong> USDA continues to support new entrants in food markets, protect farmers and ranchers, and lower prices for consumers. This includes supporting domestic fertilizer production with over <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=b7b253ac7a&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">$50 million in grants</a> awarded in October as part of up to $900 million in funding for the program. USDA also <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=400accd5a9&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">finalized</a> a rule to improve poultry markets by making sure poultry growers receive the information they need about costs and payments from the large corporations they work with.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Making health care markets more affordable and competitive. </strong>In December, the Department of Commerce <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=e0a7221a1e&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">released</a> a proposed framework providing guidance that agencies can consider price as a factor when determining whether to exercise march-in rights for federally funded inventions connected to prescription drugs. In addition, HHS rejected more than 1,000 Medicare Advantage TV marketing ads in one year that were misleading to consumers and <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=865f91c47d&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">proposed a rule</a> that if finalized will prohibit insurance companies from paying brokers to steer patients towards certain plans based on compensation, rather than options that meet best patient health needs. Additionally, HHS <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=63396139b2&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">proposed</a> to protect Medicare consumers from third parties selling their information without their consent. HHS also took historic steps to <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=88f000bc07&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">break up</a> the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network vendor monopoly. Finally, FTC and HHS <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=6a327827f4&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">launched</a> a probe into anti-competitive behavior by group purchasing organizations (GPOs) and drug wholesalers that may contribute to generic drug shortages and HHS is <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=b4dd7aa943&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">seeking input</a> on how the agency can increase transparency and promote competition in Medicare Advantage markets.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Improving transportation systems. </strong>The Surface Transportation Board has proposed a new <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=09b80dcaea&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">reciprocal switching rule</a> to improve efficiency and increase competition for moving goods across the country, by creating an opportunity for competitors to share the tracks with railroads that fail to provide reliable service. The Federal Maritime Commission is also implementing the bipartisan Ocean Shipping Reform Act signed by President Biden, including issuing a <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=5d8140647b&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">final rule</a> that provides new clarity and timelines on when shippers like farmers and retailers can be billed by ocean carriers. Finally, the Department of Transportation levied a <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=7470486f19&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">record $140 million penalty</a> on Southwest Airlines for their 2022 holiday meltdown—$90 million of the penalty will go towards compensating future Southwest passengers affected by cancellations or significant delays caused by the airline.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Institutionalizing competition.</strong> <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=c7aff59e7e&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">The FTC and DOJ recently finalized updated merger guidelines</a> to reflect the realities of the modern economy and help promote fair, open, and competitive markets as the two agencies review mergers that come before them. Further, the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=c5bf50950e&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">released new guidance</a> to ensure that competition continues to be at the center of future federal rulemaking.<br style="outline: none !important;" /> </li><li style="outline: none !important;"><strong style="outline: none !important;">Lowering costs and improving access in the communications sector. </strong>The FCC is <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=ba690a1903&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">working to restore net</a> neutrality, which will prohibit Internet Service Providers from blocking legal content, throttling speeds, and creating fast lanes that favor those who can pay for access. The FCC also adopted rules that prohibit <a href="https://whitehouse.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c97630621baff8c44fe607661&id=f3c76b13d5&e=f93245fc10" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #0064bc; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">digital discrimination</a> in high-speed Internet access based on income, race, ethnicity, religion, and national origin, which will protect civil rights, lower costs, and increase internet access for Americans across the country.</li></ul></div>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-70633452704120187702024-03-05T11:57:00.000-08:002024-03-05T11:57:11.410-08:00HIGHLIGHTS FROM TODAY'S WHITE HOUSE PRESS BRIEFING <p><br /></p><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pres. Biden has returned form Camp David where he was working on his State of the Union Address Speech. The press secretary did not share who joined him and what he plans to say in the speech when asked. </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Senator Kyrsten Sinema has announced she is not running for re-election. KJB said she has been a partner to Democrats on many critical issues that are important to the American people, such as the border. Sinema was a key negotiator on the bill that Republicans rejected. </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">KJP was asked about the number of write ins and uncommitted votes against Bidne over the Israel/Palestine war. She said se president understands the sadness of the Arab and Muslim communities.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Cookie Monster said that "shrinkflation" is making his cookies smaller.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The White House responded that "C" is for consumers getting ripped off. The POTUS will talk about junk fees and how the Competition Council is fighting "I can't believe I am having a conversation about the Cookie Monster at the podium."</span>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-79326211805745367822024-03-05T11:13:00.000-08:002024-03-05T11:13:46.603-08:00 Where Super Tuesday Elections Are Held and Why It's Super Important to Vote<p><br /></p><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Good SUPER TUESDAY morning! It's time to vote @votewithauthority! Voting for the presidential primary election takes place in 16 states including Virginia. Polls will be open in the Commonwealth from 6 AM until 7 PM. Candidates can snag the largest majority of delegates in the Super Tuesday contest. This is why primaries are significant -- the delegate count. In Virginia's Presidential Primary Republicans have 48 delegates and Democratic have 99. The next big race happens next week in Georgia where Republicans could gain 59 delegates and the Democrats 108. Some states are winner take all and some operate by a percentage.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">2024 SUPER TUESDAY ELECTION PARTICIPATiNG STATES </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Alabama.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Alaska (GOP only).</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Arkansas.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">California.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Colorado.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Maine.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Massachusetts.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Minnesota.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">North Carolina.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Oklahoma.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Tennessee.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Texas.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Utah.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Vermont.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Virginia.</span><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">American Samoa (territory)</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER MISS PRIMARIES </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ultimately delegates choose who runs for president. The candidate with the overall largest total number of delegates will be named the nominee for their respective party at the party's convention later this year. As the Slice News explained in a write up on this last week, voters should take primaries seriously. They are not "symbolic" or simply a part of going though he motions. Primary votes help move the democratic process along according to how the Constitution set it up. </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The number of delegates is determined by the representation at the state level among other factors. The party with the majority will have a larger number of delegates. The role voters play is critical because you make an initial choice that reverberates through the entire process. Party dominance can have a pay off from the local to the state and federal level. </span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">I'll be providing </span><span class="xv78j7m" spellcheck="false" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Vote With Authority</span><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"> election coverage on air today. The Slice News encourages voter participation. Your voice makes a difference!</span>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-37377574315596836302024-03-01T09:59:00.000-08:002024-03-01T09:59:20.265-08:00 Today is the One-year Anniversary of the Insulin Cost Drop. Pres. Joe Biden Made It Happen. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_kwDEYd-2f7AmbnrVlYoXSfB_XzQUyEE2l28rZg6-02X8I30AeqD6C2Ih3qOelmC3Ik1DZHqDpJYV1loPGrKX_WcLBbx4My2UR_PeZMXMvICuVfLUFYoVQ4XGlOFxpQqAhFbdzyh8tKxjZ6ETKyAbQTPD6m2T74m6lHmwUH1kmte__IKIBmn2MZGYdY/s2700/inslulinmedshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2332" data-original-width="2700" height="535" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_kwDEYd-2f7AmbnrVlYoXSfB_XzQUyEE2l28rZg6-02X8I30AeqD6C2Ih3qOelmC3Ik1DZHqDpJYV1loPGrKX_WcLBbx4My2UR_PeZMXMvICuVfLUFYoVQ4XGlOFxpQqAhFbdzyh8tKxjZ6ETKyAbQTPD6m2T74m6lHmwUH1kmte__IKIBmn2MZGYdY/w620-h535/inslulinmedshot.jpg" width="620" /></a><span style="color: var(--primary-text); font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.9375rem; text-align: left; white-space-collapse: preserve;">One year ago today, Pres. Joe Biden successfully capped the cost of insulin at a more affordable rate for all diabetes sufferers. He went after Big Pharma such as drug maker Eli Lilly to set $35 as the maximum out-of-pocket expense for insulin users. The cost of insulin in the United States is significantly higher than in other parts of the world, which poses challenges for those who </span><span style="color: var(--primary-text); font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.9375rem; text-align: left; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit;" tabindex="-1"></a></span><span style="color: var(--primary-text); font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.9375rem; text-align: left; white-space-collapse: preserve;">rely on it for their health. Often, the cost burden affects families in instances where multiple people in the same household rely on insulin medication. The removal of the affordability hurdle has impacted millions.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="" dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="x1iorvi4 x1pi30zi x1l90r2v x1swvt13" data-ad-comet-preview="message" data-ad-preview="message" id=":rcm:" style="font-family: inherit; padding: 4px 16px 16px;"><div class="x78zum5 xdt5ytf xz62fqu x16ldp7u" style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: -5px; margin-top: -5px;"><div class="xu06os2 x1ok221b" style="font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 5px;"><span class="x193iq5w xeuugli x13faqbe x1vvkbs x1xmvt09 x1lliihq x1s928wv xhkezso x1gmr53x x1cpjm7i x1fgarty x1943h6x xudqn12 x3x7a5m x6prxxf xvq8zen xo1l8bm xzsf02u x1yc453h" dir="auto" style="color: var(--primary-text); display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.9375rem; line-height: 1.3333; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Insulin is a crucial medication for both type 1 diabetics (approximately 1.4 million people) and roughly 21% of type 2 diabetics (around 6.9 million people) who need it to regulate their blood glucose levels. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Data for the National Diabetes Annual Report and the CDC indicates that approximately 8.4 million Americans rely on insulin to manage their diabetes. Among them, 2.9 million adults aged 20 years or older—equivalent to 10.9% of all US adults with diagnosed diabetes—started using insulin within a year of their diagnosis.</div></div></span></div></div></div></div><div class="x1n2onr6" id=":rcn:" style="font-family: inherit; position: relative;"><div class="x1n2onr6" style="font-family: inherit; position: relative;"><div class="x6s0dn4 x1jx94hy x78zum5 xdt5ytf x6ikm8r x10wlt62 x1n2onr6 xh8yej3" style="align-items: center; background-color: white; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: inherit; overflow: hidden; position: relative; width: 680px;"><div style="font-family: inherit; max-width: 100%; min-width: 500px; width: calc(-376.448px + 115.83vh);"><div class="xqtp20y x6ikm8r x10wlt62 x1n2onr6" style="font-family: inherit; height: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding-top: 559.984px; position: relative;"><div class="x10l6tqk x13vifvy" style="font-family: inherit; height: 559.984px; left: 0px; position: absolute; top: 0px; width: 648.641px;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="x168nmei x13lgxp2 x30kzoy x9jhf4c x6ikm8r x10wlt62" data-visualcompletion="ignore-dynamic" style="border-radius: 0px 0px 8px 8px; font-family: inherit; overflow: hidden;"><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="x1n2onr6" style="font-family: inherit; position: relative;"><div class="x6s0dn4 xi81zsa x78zum5 x6prxxf x13a6bvl xvq8zen xdj266r xktsk01 xat24cr x1d52u69 x889kno x4uap5 x1a8lsjc xkhd6sd xdppsyt" style="align-items: center; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--divider); color: var(--secondary-text); display: flex; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.9375rem; justify-content: flex-end; line-height: 1.3333; margin: 0px 16px; padding: 10px 0px;"><div class="x1c4vz4f x2lah0s xci0xqf" style="background-color: white; color: #65676b; flex-grow: 0; flex-shrink: 0; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; width: 7px;"></div><div class="x9f619 x1n2onr6 x1ja2u2z x78zum5 x2lah0s x1qughib x1qjc9v5 xozqiw3 x1q0g3np xykv574 xbmpl8g x4cne27 xifccgj" style="align-items: stretch; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #65676b; display: flex; flex-flow: row; flex-shrink: 0; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; justify-content: space-between; margin: -6px; position: relative; z-index: 0;"></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-16156006064421098732024-02-26T12:31:00.000-08:002024-02-26T12:31:18.434-08:00Backed by Whoopi Goldberg, Streaming service with wholesome content for Black families launches<p> <i style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">BLKFAM, partnered with Whoopi Goldberg, is the first and only Black-owned, Black-focused family streaming platform with empowering and diverse content</i></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"><span class="legendSpanClass" style="box-sizing: border-box;">NEW YORK</span>, <span class="legendSpanClass" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Feb. 26, 2024</span> /PRNewswire/ -- <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">BLKFAM</b>, the first and only Black-owned, Black-focused family streaming platform, launches today. BLKFAM entertains, educates, and celebrates Black American family-friendly content, sharing authentic, inclusive stories incorporating radical diversity, equity, inclusion and empowerment, with compelling original series, animation, syndicated shows, documentaries and more. Founded by digital media veteran <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Larry Adams</b>, the ad-supported, free streaming service launches with equity partner <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Whoopi Goldberg</b>.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">BLKFAM fills a major gap in the streaming market: <u style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4099518-1&h=2171287392&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fnews%2Fnbcblk%2Fblack-audiences-consume-media-tv-group-want-better-representation-rcna138423&a=Recent+Nielsen+data" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Recent Nielsen data</a></u> reveals that despite being the demographic that consumes the most media and TV, Black audiences still feel misrepresented or underrepresented in mainstream media. The report reveals that Black Americans are more likely than the general population to access three or more streaming services: Black audiences are <b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><u style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4099518-1&h=2572504984&u=https%3A%2F%2Fdrive.google.com%2Ffile%2Fd%2F1LHQA68a5h8e6w38o8Z3_uHEJtq9qHqom%2Fview%3Fusp%3Dsharing&a=underserved+" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">underserved </a></u></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">consumers, despite <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4099518-1&h=706605640&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.horowitzresearch.com%2Fall%2Fblack-households-report-higher-usage-of-svods-and-free-streaming-services%2F&a=over+indexing" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">over indexing</a></b> for using free streaming services compared to the total market. BLKFAM addresses this underserved market by bringing family-friendly, data-backed unbiased content to streaming.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">BLKFAM launches with an extensive content library including over 20 syndicated series, 1000+ hours of new animation titles, dozens of new animated characters of color and diverse gender experiences, and hundreds of hours of original music driven content. Ten new original live action and animated series are in development to premiere on the platform throughout the year. BLKFAM's content spans investigative journalism and news, fitness and wellness series, Black history, childrens' and adult animation, sitcoms and reality shows, and music programs – all through the lens of the Black experience.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">"Black culture and content is so often stereotyped, siloed or written off – so I wanted to create a platform where my kids and I can be entertained without having to face those same daily biases," says <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Larry Adams</span>, Founder and CEO of BLKFAM. "By curating authentic content – proven through data and AI – primarily from Black storytellers, we've built a service reflecting true inclusion and diversity, where Black parents and children especially can feel holistically represented."</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">EGOT winner, business mogul and Black icon Whoopi Goldberg has signed on as Equity Partner alongside <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Tom Leonardis</span>, President of Whoop, Inc., and will be steering the creative development of various programming exclusive to the platform. Whoopi says, "I am honored to partner with BLKFAM to assist in the creative direction of curated diverse content – for Black culture to be brought to broader audiences."</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">BLKFAM has partnered with The Africa Channel to bring content amplifying stories from the global Black diaspora to the new platform. Additional content partners include PLAYWATCH KIDS and ATTN:, who are developing educational, fun and empowering shows in animation and documentary styles that center on ethnic and culturally diverse characters, including <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">Gabby Galactic, Marvelous Light, Black History Beats, Kembe</i> and many more. "We are extremely excited to be partnering with BLKFAM – we feel this is a historic moment for families across the globe," says <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Jimmy Jenkins</span>, owner at Playwatch, Inc. "Ultimately this platform will impact our children, and our childrens' children."</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">Beginning today, BLKFAM is available on iOS, Android, Amazon Prime Video Channels, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, YouTube TV, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio, and LG.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">To learn more, visit<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4099518-1&h=2183960064&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blkfam.tv%2F&a=+" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank"> </a></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><u style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4099518-1&h=2242381039&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blkfam.tv%2F&a=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blkfam.tv%2F" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">https://www.blkfam.tv/</a></u></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">. </b> </p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-44815018830468473742024-02-26T11:03:00.000-08:002024-02-26T11:03:52.156-08:00Tips to prepare for solo travel<p><span style="background-color: white;">More and more women are taking journeys without travel companions. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Traveling alone can be a rewarding experience for women, but it's essential to prioritize safety and comfort. Here are some travel hacks for women who travel alone:</span></p><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 1.25em 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Research and Plan Ahead:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Research your destination thoroughly, including local customs, safety tips, and any specific considerations for solo female travelers.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Plan your itinerary, accommodations, and transportation in advance to minimize stress and uncertainty.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Share Itinerary and Stay Connected:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Share your travel itinerary, including accommodation details and transportation plans, with a trusted friend or family member.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Stay connected with loved ones by regularly updating them on your whereabouts, especially when arriving in new locations.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Pack Smart:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Pack versatile clothing to minimize the number of items and adapt to various weather conditions.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Consider a money belt or hidden pouch for essential documents and valuables.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Pack a small first aid kit with any necessary medications.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Safety Apps:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Download safety apps that allow friends or family to track your location in real-time.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Familiarize yourself with local emergency contact numbers and embassy information.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Stay In Well-Reviewed Accommodations:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Choose accommodations with positive reviews, preferably in safe neighborhoods.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Consider staying in female-only dorms in hostels or women-friendly hotels.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Blend In:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Dress modestly and try to blend in with the local culture to avoid standing out as a tourist.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Use a local SIM card or international phone plan to avoid drawing attention to your status as a tourist.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Learn Basic Phrases:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to navigate common situations and ask for help if needed.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Trust Your Instincts:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Trust your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself from it.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Be cautious when sharing personal details with strangers and be mindful of your surroundings.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Solo-Friendly Transportation:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Opt for reputable and well-reviewed transportation options.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Choose well-lit and populated areas when using public transportation or walking alone at night.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Stay Informed About Local Customs:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Be aware of and respectful towards local customs and traditions, especially in conservative areas.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Research appropriate attire to wear in different situations and locations.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Photocopies of Important Documents:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Make photocopies or digital copies of your passport, ID, travel insurance, and other important documents. Keep them separate from the originals.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Self-Defense Items:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Consider carrying basic self-defense items like a personal alarm or a compact flashlight.</li></ul></li></ol><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Remember that every destination is unique, so adapt these tips based on the specific cultural and safety considerations of the place you're visiting. Stay informed, be cautious, and embrace the adventure responsibly.</p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-46912241922686156852024-02-26T10:38:00.000-08:002024-02-26T10:38:49.571-08:00Crowe and Quickbook collaborate on small business growth initiative for BIPOCs <p><i style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">Crowe and QuickBooks will help advance financial maturity, foster capital-readiness, and better position these small businesses to thrive</i></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"><span class="legendSpanClass" style="box-sizing: border-box;">CHICAGO</span>, <span class="legendSpanClass" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Feb. 26, 2024</span> -- In conjunction with Black History Month, <a aria-invalid="true" href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=1086866738&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.crowe.com%2F%3Futm_source%3Dpr%26utm_medium%3Dprnewswire%26utm_campaign%3DBeacon&a=Crowe+LLP" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Crowe LLP</a>, a leading public accounting, consulting, and technology firm, and <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=81037988&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.intuit.com%2F&a=Intuit+Inc." rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Intuit Inc.</a> (Nasdaq: <a class="ticket-symbol" data-toggle="modal" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/crowe-and-intuit-quickbooks-collaborate-on-new-program-to-enable-minority-owned-small-business-growth-302071350.html#financial-modal" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;">INTU</a>), the global technology platform that makes Intuit <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=937633119&u=https%3A%2F%2Fcts.businesswire.com%2Fct%2FCT%3Fid%3Dsmartlink%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fquickbooks.intuit.com%252F%253Fsc%253Dseq_intuit_qb_click_hd%26esheet%3D53553654%26newsitemid%3D20230913571479%26lan%3Den-US%26anchor%3DQuickBooks%26index%3D1%26md5%3Dbd3898f944168fd07c4ad5390f7f32ba&a=QuickBooks" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">QuickBooks</a>,<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=668972647&u=https%3A%2F%2Fcts.businesswire.com%2Fct%2FCT%3Fid%3Dsmartlink%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Furldefense.com%252Fv3%252F__https%253A%252Fturbotax.intuit.com%252F__%253B%2521%2521HhhKMSGjjQV-%2521t8Bn0pFJ78r81I0wAAi4XUDZb9jZpEFbBn8GbEUWgJ0YR1DHKcklXaqItnhpIbGesMGcMlI52vCmJA%2524%26esheet%3D53553654%26newsitemid%3D20230913571479%26lan%3Den-US%26anchor%3DTurboTax%26index%3D2%26md5%3D02db1bf763abf56e0d85777a93c6d062&a=%C2%A0TurboTax" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank"> TurboTax</a>, <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=1817288497&u=https%3A%2F%2Fcts.businesswire.com%2Fct%2FCT%3Fid%3Dsmartlink%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Furldefense.com%252Fv3%252F__https%253A%252Fwww.creditkarma.com%252F__%253B%2521%2521HhhKMSGjjQV-%2521t8Bn0pFJ78r81I0wAAi4XUDZb9jZpEFbBn8GbEUWgJ0YR1DHKcklXaqItnhpIbGesMGcMlKUpQiPbg%2524%26esheet%3D53553654%26newsitemid%3D20230913571479%26lan%3Den-US%26anchor%3DCredit%2BKarma%26index%3D3%26md5%3D9cbfbd5e3d406709f7fc2bdfa1ed4d7f&a=Credit+Karma" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Credit Karma</a>, and <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=3724812328&u=https%3A%2F%2Fcts.businesswire.com%2Fct%2FCT%3Fid%3Dsmartlink%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Furldefense.com%252Fv3%252F__https%253A%252Fmailchimp.com%252F__%253B%2521%2521HhhKMSGjjQV-%2521t8Bn0pFJ78r81I0wAAi4XUDZb9jZpEFbBn8GbEUWgJ0YR1DHKcklXaqItnhpIbGesMGcMlJfK4jClw%2524%26esheet%3D53553654%26newsitemid%3D20230913571479%26lan%3Den-US%26anchor%3DMailchimp%26index%3D4%26md5%3D09f74da3302fc55f5b5f5a77d21044dc&a=Mailchimp" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Mailchimp</a>, announced their collaboration on a new <a aria-invalid="true" href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=3759012677&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.crowe.com%2Fservices%2Fconsulting%2Fcrowe-beacon%3Futm_source%3Dpr%26utm_medium%3Dprnewswire%26utm_campaign%3DBeacon&a=Crowe+Beacon" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Crowe Beacon</a> small business advancement initiative, which will source funding commitments from several key financial institutions and sponsors. The pilot initiative is focused on helping Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), women, and veteran-owned small businesses grow, enhance financial maturity, and become more capital-ready. It will give an initial 1,000 qualifying U.S. small businesses access to the QuickBooks financial technology platform along with much needed accounting and consulting services from Crowe that will better position them to manage and capitalize their businesses to drive sustainable growth.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjweAY8Wtil_W1MjV_re5lQQHngtP6Di5N2JMa3sJkRPD4WER1RlnaPn-pbaAIe5oCl8ArB-JVUYx5uD5bmxluEhl37oqQvnvzfhgRotpi46jXs9uH1CpotOdHlft0Q_va1Ekeo8b49e3i1DK1nrmFZbo3Jxld8hb7Fwr9CJ5C19yV07EFDkZyMIuMYLmU" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="600" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjweAY8Wtil_W1MjV_re5lQQHngtP6Di5N2JMa3sJkRPD4WER1RlnaPn-pbaAIe5oCl8ArB-JVUYx5uD5bmxluEhl37oqQvnvzfhgRotpi46jXs9uH1CpotOdHlft0Q_va1Ekeo8b49e3i1DK1nrmFZbo3Jxld8hb7Fwr9CJ5C19yV07EFDkZyMIuMYLmU=w568-h396" width="568" /></a></div><br />Nearly 20% of small businesses are minority-owned, according to the latest <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=2137896104&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.census.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F2022%2Fannual-business-survey-characteristics.html&a=U.S.+Census+Bureau%27s+Annual+Business+Survey" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">U.S. Census Bureau's Annual Business Survey</a>, and for Black small business owners, 30% have relied on credit cards to fund investments in their business's future growth, according to the<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=540647439&u=https%3A%2F%2Fquickbooks.intuit.com%2Fr%2Fsmall-business-data%2Fblack-history-month-survey-2024%2F&a=%C2%A02024+Intuit+QuickBooks+Black+History+Month+Survey" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank"> 2024 Intuit QuickBooks Black History Month Survey</a>.<p></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">The Crowe Beacon small business advancement initiative is tailored to serve the needs of high-performing businesses that may historically be underserved and under-resourced – with a specific focus on BIPOC businesses with annual revenues below <span class="xn-money" style="box-sizing: border-box;">$5 million</span>. Crowe Beacon provides all the traditional accounting and consulting services of Crowe on an affordable managed service platform that can help enterprises develop, mature, and evolve their financial and business planning capabilities in a way that better positions them to leverage financial and capital mechanisms.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">QuickBooks will serve as the exclusive small business technology partner for the Crowe Beacon initiative, providing participating small businesses with access to the QuickBooks Online platform, a connected suite of tools that create efficiencies and deliver insights to help businesses at every stage of growth manage their finances end-to-end, and provide transparency to capital and procurement readiness. QuickBooks will also provide onboarding, training, and technical support to help small business owners realize the benefits of using the integrated QuickBooks platform.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">Leveraging the QuickBooks platform, Crowe will provide critical accounting guidance and coaching, and access to a portfolio of its leading consulting and advisory services. This includes tax planning and preparation, cash flow planning, forecasting, invoicing and many more - the result will be small businesses with better accounting and financial practices that will enable them to unlock their true potential and help them scale and grow.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">"Our mission at Intuit is to power prosperity," said <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Barry Pennett</span>, Chief Sales Officer, Intuit QuickBooks. "Partnering on the Crowe Beacon initiative enables us to deliver upon our mission by providing participating businesses with access to our powerful, integrated QuickBooks platform so they can make more informed business decisions that help them grow."</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">"These small businesses serve as the heartbeat of our communities, and we want to empower and enable companies of all shapes and forms to succeed – because absent that equity, there is no real sense of community. We're excited to work with Intuit QuickBooks to support the underserved and underrepresented small businesses that need it most," said <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4100202-1&h=1702470660&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fkharybridgewater%2F&a=Khary+Bridgewater" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank"><span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Khary Bridgewater</span></a>, Crowe consulting principal and leader of Crowe Beacon. "Through the Crowe Beacon program, we look forward to offering an extensive portfolio of services and capabilities that support the scaling and long-term success of businesses that traditionally have not had access to this type of support."</p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-23751200583192638812024-02-23T21:27:00.000-08:002024-02-26T11:04:39.037-08:00Ordinary Angels is a movie with a mission to erase $10 million in medical debt<p> <span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">IN THEATERS NOW: Ordinary Angels (Based on a true story) </span></p><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Kingdom Story Joins Forces with RIP Medical Debt, Aiming to Erase $10,000,000 in Medical Debt Inspired by ORDINARY ANGELS</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">"Ordinary Angels" is not just a movie; it's a call to action. With a donation of $1 or more, audiences may contribute to the larger cause of erasing $10 million in medical debt for families burdened by catastrophic illness or the high costs of organ transplants by visiting RIP Medical Debt. Together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">ORDINARY ANGELS centers on the power of community. The film is inspired by the historic snowstorm that struck Louisville, Kentucky in 1994 — and how a community rallied together to save the life of a critically ill young girl. Tamala Jones, who plays Rose, brings depth to the storyline, showcasing the resilient spirit of individuals uniting for a noble cause.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">At the beginning of ORDINARY ANGELS, Sharon’s life is in shambles. Her son isn’t talking to her. She has a drinking problem. And her best friend Rose has opinions on the matter.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">“Rose is the voice of reckoning,” says Jones, who brings Rose to life onscreen. “She is no-nonsense but still a very warm person. I think that we all know someone like Rose. She doesn't sugarcoat anything. But she wants you to know it comes from a good place. She's not here to judge you or to make you feel bad about who you are. But she wants the best for everyone around her.”</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">And Rose wants better for Sharon. She can see the downward spiral that her friend has been on. And that’s why when Sharon finds something worth fighting for—little Michelle—Rose jumps on board, too.</span>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-16925596066509343482024-02-21T19:31:00.000-08:002024-02-26T11:32:36.720-08:00OPINION: Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson was not a perfect mom (and that's okay)<div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="fvmio-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="fvmio-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="fvmio-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br data-text="true" /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM120uRc_HXAlZnINIMgNlTz60BRvqFQMvUkOpDvXdU_VNA_3hZnc7V69mF6k9RYiQf4gPa-g2TZZ43izZr5imyOmfhi3eImjtGq6nah2rvC22l8wbMScNrQ16Zjs4XLmWizLRbm0FQwTCqjiCU18fKQyFlGMPPGOCH2p1-8cqDEZ4uJc338zvCZ_Y/s665/kbjfamilyheareing.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img alt="Photo new York Times Ketanji Brown Jackson SCOTUS confirmation hearing" border="0" data-original-height="372" data-original-width="665" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM120uRc_HXAlZnINIMgNlTz60BRvqFQMvUkOpDvXdU_VNA_3hZnc7V69mF6k9RYiQf4gPa-g2TZZ43izZr5imyOmfhi3eImjtGq6nah2rvC22l8wbMScNrQ16Zjs4XLmWizLRbm0FQwTCqjiCU18fKQyFlGMPPGOCH2p1-8cqDEZ4uJc338zvCZ_Y/w678-h379/kbjfamilyheareing.jpg" width="678" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Photo by Sarabeth Maney</span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="fvmio-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="u7gg-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="u7gg-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="u7gg-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><i>The culture of over achievement and impersonation produces the stress to be perfect parents. In reality, no parent gets it right all of the time. The latest Supreme Court justice of the United States, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson includes herself in that number and so do I. </i></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="u7gg-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="u7gg-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="49sa5-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="49sa5-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="49sa5-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">By Mona Austin </span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="86d0m-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="86d0m-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="86d0m-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br data-text="true" /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0">During the Senate confirmation hearing for the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson admitted to her daughters, </span></span><span face="Poppins, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="white-space: normal;">Talia (21) and Leila (17), </span><span data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0">and the world that she has not always "gotten it right" when it comes to motherhood, garnering widespread "amens" from working moms across the Web. </span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="font-family: arial;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial; white-space: normal;"> </span></div><h3 style="box-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1.35; margin: 0px 0px 1.5625rem; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px; white-space: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><span><span>In her opening statement she told them: </span><span>“Girls, I know it has not been easy as I have tried to navigate the challenges of juggling my career and motherhood. And I fully admit that I did not always get the balance right. </span></span> <span style="background-color: white;">"But I hope that you have seen that with hard work, determination, and love, it can be done … I love you so much.” </span></span></h3><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;">From the start of the process she let her children know how much she cares about them and they will remain a high priority as she takes on more professional responsibilities. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="white-space: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="white-space: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial;">“You are the light of my life. Please know that whatever title I may hold or whatever job I may have, I will still be your mom. That will never change,” she said.</span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Moreover, she made clear that her promotion did not mean abandonment.</span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;">In that moment. Judge Jackson expressed the epitome of motherhood -- that she would always be connected spiritually to her children in a unique way. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sara Beth <span style="color: #333333; font-family: _OpenSans, OpenSans, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15.6px; letter-spacing: 0.156px; white-space-collapse: collapse;">Maney, who is a fellow for the </span><em style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: _OpenSans, OpenSans, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15.6px; letter-spacing: 0.156px; white-space-collapse: collapse;">New York Times</em><span style="color: #333333; font-family: _OpenSans, OpenSans, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15.6px; letter-spacing: 0.156px; white-space-collapse: collapse;">, shared the photo to Twitter with the caption, "Being the first often means you have to be the best–and the bravest." </span>If the photo could speak it would say that Jackson's family has her back and are proud of her accomplishments despite any maternal insecurities she was addressing at the time. </span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">"You don't have to be perfect in your career trajectory and you can still end up doing what you want to do," she said to Sen. Cory Booker days later, explaining what she intended to convey to her girls.</span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x-tRTv2he1k" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><span>In addressing this inherent struggle<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> many working moms could relate to the "lump-in-the-throat" feeling of inadequacy known as "mommy guilt." </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">It comes in the form of taking a much needed break sometimes or not being around in important moments of the child's life, forgetting things, leaving the baby with the sitter or at the nurdery for the the frist time when maternity leave is over, using family members, sitters or other care givers to stand in at special events, or missing firsts. Judge Jackson </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"> didn't choose the gavel over the pacifier, but her personal verdict is still guilty.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">From my experience juggling motherhood and a career I can attest to the mental split that working moms feel. A demand for one side to over rule the other occurs frequently and that is where the guilt comes from. It has come down to concentrating on achieving a balance that allowed me to work and raise my children myself. This choice has come with a sacrifice of income. Being a military wife limited my choices for employment but also gave us stability in terms of household income and invaluable time with my girls.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is an inequity in resources in some parts of the country that extends past the home. Where people live, income levels, social conditions and support systems must be taken into account with regard to the options women have to either work, stay at home or both. There may be inequity in access depending on these factors. Many families simply don't have a level of support or financial freedom to allow a woman to pursue big dreams without neglecting something or someone at home.</span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">I want to explore the rest of the truth that Judge Jackson started to tell -- that motherhood in and of itself is not mistake proof. Working and non-working moms alike suffer from guilt that they are ashamed to admit. There is an unspoken inner fear that if we don't "get it right" our children will fail. Motherhood is a job that you approach day-by-day with the understanding that the requirements are ever-fluctuating but there is no manual that could possibly tell you how to fix all the challenges you will encounter in parenting. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">In this sense Jackson is relatable. Her was voice was freeing for so many moms. But, Jackson is an exception, not the rule on multiple levels. She </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">and her family have privileges that afforded her the opportunity to choose and make it work. Most American moms, especially Black moms can't afford to do what they want but do what they must. Being highly educated and more qualified with more real world courtroom experience than other judges before her in a high income bracket helped line Jackson's path to the Supreme Court. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><span face="Roboto, arial, sans-serif" style="white-space: normal;">In 2021, about </span><b style="white-space: normal;">71.75 million</b><span face="Roboto, arial, sans-serif" style="white-space: normal;"> women were employed in the United States (Statista, Feb. 2022). The Bureau of Labor statistic reports that over half of the workforce is made up of women. Many of these women are moms. During the pandemic, the impact of working moms having to return home to manage their families proved to be a challenge in the home and had a tremendous impact on the workplace. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">Women did not return to the workforce at the same rate as men, understandably to take care of the obligations to family which ranged form meal prep to home schooling. ( Meanwhile, equal pay for equal work has not become law.)</span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: arial; white-space: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">In the aftermath of the pandemic the dynamics of priorities varies from household to household. Some women who once stayed at home found fulfillment in the workplace and wanted to continue to work outside of the home but can not abandon their family responsibilities. Some women never will, being completely satisfied with raising children or taking care of family life. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">I think we need the contribution of both types of women in a progressive society. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d23e2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="ecp1-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="ecp1-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">Seeking the best of both worlds, I've "officed" from home to ensure that I was there for my children when they returned from school, trying to give them the sense of security I did not have.</span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="ecp1-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="inee-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="inee-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="inee-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">My mother, who was also a working mom while raising five children at the time, once left us with a sitter while she took on a second job and it did not end well for me. </span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="236pi-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="236pi-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="236pi-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br data-text="true" /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="flbuu-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="flbuu-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="flbuu-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">I waited until my adulthood to tell her how I was abused by someone we trusted at the age of 8 or 9. I'm not sure that she understood that I believed the abuse happened because she was not there. Seeing her only for a few hours at night was scary. </span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="8f3j7-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8f3j7-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="8f3j7-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br data-text="true" /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8f3j7-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="8f3j7-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">This experience made me over-protective. No one, but me, was going to answer the door-bell every afternoon when the bus dropped off my children. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8f3j7-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="8f3j7-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="7rd2h-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="7rd2h-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="7rd2h-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">My mother worked all day at a childcare facility and kept an immaculate home. At the time of the abuse, she had picked up a few extra hours at a fast food stop. We did not have a particularly grand lifestyle. Our basic needs were met and very occasionally we got some of what we wanted. An otherwise simple woman, mom enjoyed interior decorating and perhaps needed the extra money to put toward a home improvement project. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">My baker step father meagerly paid his share of bills.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"> She may have undertaken the part time job (most likely) to make ends meet. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="7rd2h-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="65lhq-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="65lhq-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="65lhq-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">When she was not working outside of the home, my mom was usually cooking or cleaning inside the home. She did not usually commit time to school activities. I remember distinctly the number of times my mother attended school functions and the sense of security I felt when she did. Most times she was attending to my siblings and could not be there.</span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="8q3u7-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8q3u7-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="8q3u7-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br data-text="true" /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="bv728-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="bv728-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="bv728-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">Today, she runs her own child care business. With pride she often tells me about how she is helping young women who are in school or have a new job by charging them less or offering them special schedules to aid them in reaching their goals. She is giving them the chance to do what she could not.</span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="151tg-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="151tg-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="151tg-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br data-text="true" /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="aprjc-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="aprjc-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="aprjc-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">I did not outwardly complain about the lack of material things I wanted or the attention I needed, but inwardly promised myself that I would do better in these areas when I became a parent. In the wealthy future that I imagined, not being there for my children, should I decide to have them, would not be an option. When I married and had kids I quickly learned that my thoughts as a child were just a fantasy. </span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="98smm-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="98smm-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="98smm-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br data-text="true" /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="8i6ap-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8i6ap-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="8i6ap-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">For many women who pursue professional endeavors and opt to become parents at the same time, careers often win in the work/life balance game. I chose both, but because of the attention I felt I lacked in my childhood, I placed a higher priority on family. As a result, my career got off to a later start and I have faced a number of challenges both in my social life personally and professionally. My trajectory to becoming a White House Correspondent was anything but a traditional path which some peers have tried to hold against me. Even in being there for my children, motherhood in and of itself has been difficult. We were a military family that lacked the immediate support of family or a community connection, so I had to figure many things out on my own. In the moments that I have not gotten it right, I refrained from sulking, knowing I did my whole-hearted best.</span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8i6ap-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8i6ap-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">I figured I must have gotten motherhood mostly right when my youngest daughter wrote about me for an assignment about heroes. I was inspired to be even better. My oldest won a book award for a story she wrote in kindergarten about my pregnancy and the coming of her first and only sibling. Both girls expressed their admiration for me in their own way, giving me a sense of pride in motherhood that I can't explain. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8i6ap-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8i6ap-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">But rather than explain it, I've shown my pride and love, by putting them first. This has meant that there was a trade off with other things outside of my home. I could not climb the career ladder at a steady pace or have an active social life. </span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="3o1el-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3o1el-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="3o1el-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="8r6f7-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8r6f7-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="8r6f7-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">My motherhood experience has left me feeling inadequate despite the accomplishments of my children who are both over-achievers. Mostly this is because we re-rehearse lessons often and I feel drained with no new solutions to share. I've had the feeling that I have done too much in some instance and not enough in others. This feeling has left me still striving to correct a young adult daughter who thinks I am over-bearing and wants space although we still live under the same roof. Her younger sister is content as long as I comply with furnishing funds for fast food daily and she scan rely on her father and I to be her personal uber drivers. All of these behaviors are a result of me making life easy (read privileged) for them both. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8r6f7-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="demmq-0-0"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="demmq-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span data-offset-key="demmq-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">As Black women, in particular, the weight of the world is placed on our shoulders in addition to the responsibilities of career and home life. When you are exceptional to the point that you know your gifts are to be extended beyond the home, you may feel conflicted at times. Anyone watching the Senate hearing could see that Jackson' hearing came with far more pressure than anyone before her. She answered an unprecedented 1500 questions despite her impeccable qualifications. She will has more experience with the law than any other justice on the bench but had to endure both racism and sexism right before our eyes.</span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="demmq-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">She handled it all in a exemplary fashion while her daughters</span> <span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">witnessed the process along with the rest of the world, showing them, as only a mom could, how to stand up to bullies. </span></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="demmq-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="998qm-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="998qm-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="998qm-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">We are not called to be perfect moms, but we are called to be present, loving and responsible for our children's safe keeping, health and upbringing. It is our job to nurture them and ensure their needs are met, to prepare them for an often mean world. When you become a mom, that is precisely what you sign up for. Being a mother is a full time job with no time off, overtime, severance pay or other benefits that come with professional jobs for a the minimum of 18 years. Motherhood is a choice that no one makes with the intent to neglect their responsibility.</span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="9mdfk-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="9mdfk-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="9mdfk-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br data-text="true" /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="3um70-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3um70-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="3um70-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">I proudly served in my role as a mother opting to work from home so that I could be more directly involved in my children's lives. I volunteered at their schools, enrolled them in extracurricular activities and made sure I showed up to 99% of the activities in which they participated. I've sacrificed on both ends, but admit I've wondered if I've done enough. </span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3um70-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><br /></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3um70-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="3um70-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3um70-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span data-offset-key="3um70-0-0" style="background-color: white;">Keeping "family first" may be out of reach in reality for most households. Working is a matter of survival for most average Americans. Married and educated women tend to have more of an option to juggle both. Single parents tend to work because they must. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Finding the balance between the work and life may be the goal but it is difficult to attain. You may not measure up to the ideals society places on motherhood or even the expectations of children, who these days compare you to moms on not just television, but to moms in the fairytale land of Tic Toc, who do everything right and can dance on top of it! </span></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="c7nr8-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="c7nr8-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="c7nr8-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="frjc5-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="frjc5-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="frjc5-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">My support level has begun to change now that my second daughter is in high school and I have returned to a more regular work schedule. I often feel the pressure to make up for lost time. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">When I am at home I am usually in front of the computer at off hours, but I stop at a moment's notice if my baby girl needs me. This has been my adjustment.</span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">I'm not sure what part of Judge Jackson's roles was sacrificed since she climbed all the way up the professional ladder.</span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span data-offset-key="45gj0-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;">The beauty of imperfect parenting is that there are no perfect children. In our imperfect humanity, parents and children are both always learning and will eventually reach a peak of maturity in their personal growth as well as within their relationship. In the valley moments, the insecurity of a parent comes from not being able to meet expectations constructed by society, not the child. Most of them just want time and attention (in addition to every new invention they see.)</span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="4v0ml-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="4v0ml-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="b9jhe-0-0" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><div><span data-offset-key="b9jhe-0-0" style="font-family: arial;">So it's okay. Iam not Ketanji and she is not me. Like marriage, motherhood is unique to those in the relationship. Every woman, working or not must get through the motherhood journey doing the best she can. Mo</span><span style="font-family: arial;">therhood is hard and you don't always have to get it right. For some people Ketanji status will never be attained. When she spoke directly to her children, she empowered me and other moms to understand it doesn't have to be. </span></div></div><div data-block="true" data-editor="3u5tb" data-offset-key="bd355-0-0" style="background-color: #242526; color: #e4e6eb; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"></div>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-1256540875810958842024-02-17T14:48:00.000-08:002024-02-21T19:23:30.265-08:00From the "If It Had Not Been" Series by the Slice News Journalist Ida B. Wells gives birth to written activism <p>"The pen is mightier than the sword."</p><p></p>IF IT HAD NOT BEEN FOR IDA <div><br /></div><div>First in a series, this essay is a summary of the life and legacy of Ida Be. Wells-Barnett a journalist, organizer and civil rights pioneer. Presented by The Slice News, the series is named " It Had Not Been For." It is easy to assume tht the freedoms in today's society were always the case. The goal of the series to to spotlight whose actions impacted society in a positive way. <br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ldjilHjhohQtcteR-4pY02ySVcWOCpl2fhvIAvc_XNBw3dXGALTr5aX594P99qpM8saqGfUxwrDR1teaP1NWzfHGx9cVFV-J7nnRyaC4ypDVqIXT0vbudz3tgn2FAmrZfApwUUSI8u3nYsYO9sjbXtti73nSx3RlfOxM1rzQKAP6-BG_Amx1sJ94dNg/s471/idabwellsbarnet.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="330" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ldjilHjhohQtcteR-4pY02ySVcWOCpl2fhvIAvc_XNBw3dXGALTr5aX594P99qpM8saqGfUxwrDR1teaP1NWzfHGx9cVFV-J7nnRyaC4ypDVqIXT0vbudz3tgn2FAmrZfApwUUSI8u3nYsYO9sjbXtti73nSx3RlfOxM1rzQKAP6-BG_Amx1sJ94dNg/w448-h640/idabwellsbarnet.jpg" width="448" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ida V. Wells Barbett Circa 1893</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p> <span data-offset-key="c4v17-0-0" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true">Ida B. Wells said she never used a two-syllable word where she could use one. Keeping the community informed, the former Mississippi born teacher was an investigative journalist who made it her business to educate Blacks about their rights and their worth throughout her </span></span><span data-offset-key="c4v17-0-1" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true" style="background-color: white;">life. Her words would be read or shared with many people who could not read during the Reconstruction period, thus the simplicity in her approach. Her work appeared in the Memphis Free Speech and Headlight newspaper she co-owned. The racism she witnessed in her native Mississippi sparked an interest in seeking racial equality and justice. When a mob destroyed her newspaper office she moved to Chicago.</span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span data-offset-key="c4v17-0-1" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true" style="background-color: white;">Wells-Barnett spent the bulk of her career documenting lynchings on a one woman anti-lynching crusade. Wells found 728 Blacks were lynched and made it known that the practice was used to police the innocent in post-slavery America. a pro-segregation society.</span></span></p><p><span data-offset-key="c4v17-0-1" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true" style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-offset-key="c4v17-0-1" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true" style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-pkinsjiVFRgqlZcyEcrjgeZzOXhhnmD_ui7uRjGYVvZ_NPnoMsWtxeJLziMLvOTD_gg81FKIzfQsMs5WZ6ZhHDXok5Iyu3aTeEmpxKeQceoB8yqT9fVU9XKDb5xkPifTUYfUoRnckZl8sdfvK_G4BzQ8fML1bwiqK49c_6rBEzcjtVMvsXJR9r_zshk/s474/OIP.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="474" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-pkinsjiVFRgqlZcyEcrjgeZzOXhhnmD_ui7uRjGYVvZ_NPnoMsWtxeJLziMLvOTD_gg81FKIzfQsMs5WZ6ZhHDXok5Iyu3aTeEmpxKeQceoB8yqT9fVU9XKDb5xkPifTUYfUoRnckZl8sdfvK_G4BzQ8fML1bwiqK49c_6rBEzcjtVMvsXJR9r_zshk/w636-h358/OIP.jpg" width="636" /></a></span></span></div><span data-offset-key="1p64n-0-0" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true"><div><span data-offset-key="1p64n-0-0" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true"><br /></span></span></div>She took her anti-lynching battle to the White House. Her petition to make lynching a crime reached the desks of presidents William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, and Warren G. Harding. In 1893, she crossed the Atlantic and visited England to spread condemnation of lynching. She viewed the murder of Blacks by White mobs as a moral crisis and had hopes that international outcry would sway Americans to end the race-based violence. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: NPRSerif, serif; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.36px;">"I am in Great Britain today because I believe that the silent indifference with which she has received the charge that human beings are burned alive in Christian Anglo-Saxon communities is born of ignorance of the true situation. America cannot and will not ignore the voice of a nation that is her superior in civilization."</span></div><div><span data-offset-key="1p64n-0-0" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true"><br /></span></span></div><div><span data-offset-key="1p64n-0-0" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true">Wells was dedicated to ensuring that Black life and their contributions to Ameri</span></span><span data-offset-key="1p64n-0-1" face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span data-text="true" style="background-color: white;">ca was properly chronicled. In her autobiography she said only the participants of a race could provide the history of it.</span></span><p></p><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #0f1419;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The journalist went on the become a co-founder of the NAACP and a well-known advocate for Black women's suffrage. She famously joined a massive women's voting rights march in Washington, DC in 1913 and refused to march with in the back as organizers had demanded Black women to do. Much like Black pastors, Black writers became trusted messengers in the Black community and newspapers were the earliest from of mass communication that Black had to keep a record of their stories. Instead of merely using her "pen" to inform, </span></span></span><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Her contemporaries and members of the Black establishment did not readily support her activism while she was alive. Yet her life for Black journalist became a symbol for incorporating activism in one's work. She never stopped fighting for her community using her voice and knowledge no matter how little or how much backing she had. </span></p><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #0f1419;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">To some extent the legacy of Ida. B. Wells Barnett is just beginning to get the respect it deserves. The anti-lynching Act that made lynching illegal was named in her honor under Pres. joe Biden in 2021. </span></span><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ida B. Wells Drive was the first street in Chicago named after an African American. And, she is celebrated among Black journalists who pulled a page from her book to ensure that issues from the police killings of unarmed Black men to the trafficking of Black women is not going unnoticed. If it had not been for Ida B. Wells Black women would not have voting rights to affect the changes to make America a better place for Blacks.</span></p></div></div>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-49461959284136483102024-02-17T05:13:00.000-08:002024-02-17T05:13:41.161-08:00Rep. Jim Clyburn resigns from U.S. House Leadership, will run for re-election<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT27jrShQkGbRr8PGyIQo6dv1Rk5HBv0unHerbF0Ct6WehHhZn4fYufSSFwCRSRdMW77dVFy3DJc2dSE0m-iDtbM307FWg-eCIqoxTqtuDYmfWst6EwPa_GzgmO1a8h_zaTGQZgkP_P1aNPDVG1rGo1uUqFHugNRv8Qj9TVv-6F2sF4L5bYywP929V0Pc/s400/52044691462_8c30b23e8f_w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="267" data-original-width="400" height="479" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT27jrShQkGbRr8PGyIQo6dv1Rk5HBv0unHerbF0Ct6WehHhZn4fYufSSFwCRSRdMW77dVFy3DJc2dSE0m-iDtbM307FWg-eCIqoxTqtuDYmfWst6EwPa_GzgmO1a8h_zaTGQZgkP_P1aNPDVG1rGo1uUqFHugNRv8Qj9TVv-6F2sF4L5bYywP929V0Pc/w716-h479/52044691462_8c30b23e8f_w.jpg" width="716" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Inter, sans-serif; font-size: 18.8px; letter-spacing: -0.0564px;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Inter, sans-serif; font-size: 18.8px; letter-spacing: -0.0564px;">U.S. House Assistant Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn released the following statement on his decision to step down from House Democratic leadership:</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: Inter, sans-serif; font-size: 18.8px; letter-spacing: -0.0564px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px -0.46em; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; word-break: break-word;">“I have informed Leader Hakeem Jeffries of my intention to step down as Assistant Democratic Leader of the House Democratic Caucus. I am deeply grateful for the confidence my colleagues have placed in me throughout my career, especially as Co-President of my Freshman Class, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Vice Chair and Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, and twice as Majority Whip and Assistant Democratic Leader. I am confident that Leader Jeffries, Whip Katherine Clark, Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, and the entire leadership team will continue the important work of putting people over politics. <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />“I will run for re-election for the Sixth Congressional District. Events of the last several years have made it clear that the greatness of America is at peril, and the threats to our continued pursuit of ‘a more perfect Union’ are real. <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />“Yesterday’s results in New York and Pennsylvania, however, undergird my devotion to Alexis de Tocqueville’s admonition that ‘America’s greatness is not that she is more enlightened than any other nation, but that she has always been able to repair her faults.’ I am convinced that a significant majority of Americans are committed to de Tocqueville’s notion, and I feel compelled to expand my efforts to maintain America’s greatness and make that greatness accessible and affordable for all Americans. That has always been my life’s mission and I am proud of my efforts in that regard. <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />“I’ve had the privilege of serving under consequential Democratic presidents, balancing budgets in the Clinton Administration, expanding healthcare access under President Obama, and rescuing a pandemic plagued country and economy with President Biden.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />“South Carolina, and our already-great nation, have made tremendous progress under the Biden-Harris Administration. I look forward to continuing to work alongside my Democratic colleagues in the 118th Congress, and beyond, to regain a Democratic Majority, retain our Senate Majority, and rally Americans to reelect President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.”</p><div><br /></div>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-77678790284270759642024-02-12T08:20:00.000-08:002024-02-12T08:20:57.390-08:00Pastor Freddie Haynes Gets Formally Installed as The Head of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition<p> <i style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Rainbow PUSH Coalition Also Hosted the Inaugural President's Social Justice Conference One Day After the Installation</i></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"><span class="legendSpanClass" style="box-sizing: border-box;">DALLAS</span>,- On the first day of Black History Month, Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III was formally installed as the President and CEO of Rainbow PUSH Coalition on <span class="xn-chron" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Thursday, February 1, 2024</span>, at <span class="xn-chron" style="box-sizing: border-box;">7 PM</span> at the Black Academy of Arts and Letters. The sold-out installation event featured VIP program participants and attendees from all over the country, including <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Roland Martin</span>, Rev. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Al Sharpton</span> (NAN), <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Shavonne Arline-Bradley</span> (NCNW), Dr. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Michael Sorrell</span>, Dr. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Amos Brown</span>, and Dr. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Ron Daniels</span>, among others. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Tashara Parker</span>, 4X Emmy award-winning journalist, served as the mistress of ceremonies. A livestream is available to watch on <u style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=4085565-1&h=2970683358&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D3iZKspW93_U&a=YouTube" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #063369; font-weight: bold; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">YouTube</a></u>, courtesy of Roland Martin Unfiltered, a Black-owned media network. Both the installation ceremony and the President's Inaugural Social Justice Conference were presented by Sound Design Studios, a <span class="xn-location" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Dallas</span>-based Black-owned production company. </p><div class="pull-right inline-gallery-container col-md-8 col-sm-7 col-xs-12" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; float: right !important; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-left: 30px; margin-right: -125px; min-height: 1px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 15px; position: relative; width: 630px;"><div class="gallery inline-gallery" style="background: 0px center; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px auto 10px; min-height: 220px; position: relative; width: 600px; z-index: 600;"><div class="row" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-left: -15px; margin-right: -15px;"><div class="col-sm-12" style="box-sizing: border-box; float: left; min-height: 1px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 15px; position: relative; width: 630px;"></div><div class="col-sm-12 clearfix" style="box-sizing: border-box; float: left; min-height: 1px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 15px; position: relative; width: 630px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXSDuQVR3FtHOK4YuPTjmoNEiR0SsidYz3uCFBcFS5iJgxMr2Y0J8pcG8edUjJL3uKLXHNv7OMYeEDC4ZwazO-aiK4YvIS3f7quNF-5x0Mh4h-Oia_uOXb_lcgx_D4ttdCI9HvVFnufJIfDReqjj0F80hIz_9FWGrVAoJRSSdr8Bf_RztzDEb1aEQATM/s8256/3HCIUUrH.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXSDuQVR3FtHOK4YuPTjmoNEiR0SsidYz3uCFBcFS5iJgxMr2Y0J8pcG8edUjJL3uKLXHNv7OMYeEDC4ZwazO-aiK4YvIS3f7quNF-5x0Mh4h-Oia_uOXb_lcgx_D4ttdCI9HvVFnufJIfDReqjj0F80hIz_9FWGrVAoJRSSdr8Bf_RztzDEb1aEQATM/w509-h338/3HCIUUrH.jpeg" width="509" /></a></div><br /><figure style="border: 1px solid rgb(202, 200, 200); box-sizing: border-box; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 20px;"><br /><figcaption style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 11.2px; height: auto; padding: 10px;">DR. FREDERICK D. HAYNES, III FORMALLY INSTALLED AS PRESIDENT AND CEO OF RAINBOW PUSH COALITION</figcaption></figure></div></div></div></div><p id="continue-jump" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; float: left; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">While Rev <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Al Sharpton</span> delivered the keynote speech, nearly every speaker echoed his sentiments in favor of Dr. Haynes' selection, his previous work in the community, the role of the Black church in the fight for social justice and the need for community support. Sharpton, however, explicitly called out the issues at hand, connecting the Civil Rights Movement to Dr. Haynes' existing work as a social justice pastor.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">"Look at the time we are in: everything that was gained in the '60s is now under threat," said Sharpton. "They talk about affirmative action, women's rights, diversity, inclusion, voting rights, like somebody woke up and gave us that. Nobody donated anything to us. We fought for everything we got and we need to get back to fighting right now. And that's why I've come to celebrate Freddy, because we need fighters in the pulpit… We need a fighter like <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Freddy Haynes</span>."</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">Many speakers also shared their gratitude for the work that Dr. Haynes has already done, as well as their high hopes in his ability to lead Rainbow PUSH Coalition and serve as an example for the next generation. In doing so, each speaker ultimately connected the work from the Civil Rights Movement to the work being done today. Several speakers also expressed the importance of community support, when speaking in favor of Dr. Haynes' elevation and the formal work ahead of him in this new role.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">"I'm here to tell you that the transformation is up to all of us," expressed Congresswoman <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Jasmine Crockett</span>, who is a member of Dr. Haynes' congregation at Friendship-West Baptist Church and represents <span class="xn-location" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Texas'</span> 30th District. "There is no movement that doesn't take all of us."</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">Award-winning journalist <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Roland Martin</span>, who, like Dr. Haynes, is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, particularly emphasized the need for Black businesses, churches, organizations and press to all work together. "This is an opportunity for us to say we are going to create an ecosystem that speaks for us, that represents us, that is going to stand for us, that is going to fight for us," said Martin.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">The role of the Black church was a continued theme, further connecting the work Dr. Haynes has previously done as a social justice pastor to the agenda he has set for Rainbow PUSH Coalition. While Rev. Sharpton described the installation as "providence," referencing the protective care of God, Dr. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Amos C. Brown</span>, who was Dr. Haynes' pastor at the historic Third Baptist Church in <span class="xn-location" style="box-sizing: border-box;">San Francisco, Calif.</span> and ordained him as a pastor, referred to him as "the one on whom the prophetic mantle would fall."</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">Dr. Haynes was sworn in by <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Paul Quinn College President</span>, Dr. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Michael J. Sorrell</span>.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">"How appropriate it is during Black History Month, that we look back… but we look forward to a great future," said Dr. Haynes immediately after taking the oath at the sold-out installation. Dr. Haynes also thanked every person who mentored, worked with or otherwise supported him in his work, particularly Rev. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Jesse Jackson</span>, who he compared to <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Jackie Robinson</span> in opening doors for those who came after him.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">The day after the installation, <span class="xn-chron" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Friday, February 2, 2024</span>, Rainbow PUSH Coalition hosted the President's Inaugural Social Justice Conference from <span class="xn-chron" style="box-sizing: border-box;">9 AM - 4:30 PM</span> at <span class="xn-org" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Paul Quinn College</span>. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition President's Inaugural Social Justice Conference was a call to action as well as a reminder that the fight for social justice is far from over and requires the collective effort of every individual to bring about meaningful change. Among the speakers were author and activist <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Tamika Mallory</span>; lead pastor and executive director Pastor <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Mike McBride</span>; preacher, scholar and researcher Rev. Dr. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Brianna K. Parker</span>; pastor, author, and activist Rev. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Tisha Dixon Williams</span>; civil rights and social policy advocate, attorney, and CEO Mrs. <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Jennifer Jones Austin</span>; author, activist, and educator Former Congressman <span class="xn-person" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Jesse Jackson Jr.</span>; and Dr. Haynes himself. Sessions included the Social Justice Master Class, Creating Economic Structures that are Just, the Disinherited Conference, and Curriculum for the 2024 Election, the last of which is applicable for churches, organizations, and individuals.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;">The installation's location in <span class="xn-location" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Dallas</span> holds great significance not just to Dr. Haynes, but the greater <span class="xn-location" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Dallas</span> community which he has faithfully served and poured into for decades. In addition to this new role at the helm of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Dr. Haynes is the senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church, a megachurch in <span class="xn-location" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Dallas, Texas</span>, with more than 13,000 members. The location of the conference at <span class="xn-org" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Paul Quinn College</span> also holds significance for Dr. Haynes. He teaches college courses and workshops at several institutions of higher learning, including <span class="xn-org" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Paul Quinn College</span>. Dr. Haynes also serves on the Board of Trustees for <span class="xn-org" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Paul Quinn College</span> as well as various other boards, particularly those in underserved and minority communities. Additionally, he is the namesake of the Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III Global Preparatory School, located on the campus of <span class="xn-org" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Paul Quinn College</span>, which serves students grades 6-12 who seek to enter the International Baccalaureate program.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaiL7w44TcQKVGFVo266IbAtK4WF_EY6ob2I89XzlZklTje2vVKz8mY5kkuowT8Dy-cInTRfYVDRNIXLiONzFOHGykY3FwpozNe7IaDvMhXJ2Z3j1t-KGIpq0WOPvwMsKCMtfJhLtbuJeIheehqLFkQJqYGfq7Li3Sf-7LyxiOFpCNgACM0mRuO9IMDnw/s8256/c1H3QK5d.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaiL7w44TcQKVGFVo266IbAtK4WF_EY6ob2I89XzlZklTje2vVKz8mY5kkuowT8Dy-cInTRfYVDRNIXLiONzFOHGykY3FwpozNe7IaDvMhXJ2Z3j1t-KGIpq0WOPvwMsKCMtfJhLtbuJeIheehqLFkQJqYGfq7Li3Sf-7LyxiOFpCNgACM0mRuO9IMDnw/w632-h420/c1H3QK5d.jpeg" width="632" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Cn8mFwEsl3hjFg2Qc9_rs7Yb3zSTkSQ-3Hd9-cq-0c6blG7PWCat2HH2_cAzJmipXN_Nrkh183vBFYODkzRKs6h12mr_SUFGseuCqy2cUNIQ9BKawEknRpRf7hArCruqFIv8PuZtuHLq1xach2_DDK0qroVbvl8rBT-XrhK5J3eS-sMgS6bHT1yPEZo/s8256/fridd0SQ.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="413" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Cn8mFwEsl3hjFg2Qc9_rs7Yb3zSTkSQ-3Hd9-cq-0c6blG7PWCat2HH2_cAzJmipXN_Nrkh183vBFYODkzRKs6h12mr_SUFGseuCqy2cUNIQ9BKawEknRpRf7hArCruqFIv8PuZtuHLq1xach2_DDK0qroVbvl8rBT-XrhK5J3eS-sMgS6bHT1yPEZo/w621-h413/fridd0SQ.jpeg" width="621" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCGIbE7x9FvMz4QncCBf-xu2QgzN-Cw0XQ2PkC3kSDffay9Rk_cjlYWIQ90ERKGVJxHXvRR4C-2cWVTR5lF_H___yxE77bXST1ZddoK7mNTJqPb1jKiunVfZVeVthtnfIzMYzRaj3vYdDDgG2oOfLgPdRKVQfpHu_6CmctP25NvI3v8YyviNgvdQ9D7s/s1920/doMzDbDI.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCGIbE7x9FvMz4QncCBf-xu2QgzN-Cw0XQ2PkC3kSDffay9Rk_cjlYWIQ90ERKGVJxHXvRR4C-2cWVTR5lF_H___yxE77bXST1ZddoK7mNTJqPb1jKiunVfZVeVthtnfIzMYzRaj3vYdDDgG2oOfLgPdRKVQfpHu_6CmctP25NvI3v8YyviNgvdQ9D7s/w634-h357/doMzDbDI.jpeg" width="634" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnoA1rrZY1tilH27EFKrFxIZW1LXZVVc2PUSd8jQzFHav9tQYALLt3JsesVJTQg6r5MxP5aajZ3kNGJoSczbtrU5JJ8uUfSjYPBc6Uxsb6eUGCmBoxXiMi3MPqa_gfj7Ue-A9tc8y6HSRE4UbuIc7r07dqgB1z_iXiV4EmTOJC4KOLkpRZcVcHg81okk/s8256/H-OmtQZ-.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="421" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnoA1rrZY1tilH27EFKrFxIZW1LXZVVc2PUSd8jQzFHav9tQYALLt3JsesVJTQg6r5MxP5aajZ3kNGJoSczbtrU5JJ8uUfSjYPBc6Uxsb6eUGCmBoxXiMi3MPqa_gfj7Ue-A9tc8y6HSRE4UbuIc7r07dqgB1z_iXiV4EmTOJC4KOLkpRZcVcHg81okk/w632-h421/H-OmtQZ-.jpeg" width="632" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsBLmlT4taDzbCmVEYE6i-Hv1QYMxQ1diISjnGeljVrO585H-TJSzEtplcPEDO1n94FfNuBhAuGCR8Yn-9imo8Q2qaQrrw1UIVseuZKcrBSeuuoWG7hn_seDSOO-ctXbawpwESDxMQ9Ly_JQ2_NK7sgVfzJ25_Vm6pU8aMXBUorwD6wXjPenKLuiCels/s8256/TFbtGV8s.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsBLmlT4taDzbCmVEYE6i-Hv1QYMxQ1diISjnGeljVrO585H-TJSzEtplcPEDO1n94FfNuBhAuGCR8Yn-9imo8Q2qaQrrw1UIVseuZKcrBSeuuoWG7hn_seDSOO-ctXbawpwESDxMQ9Ly_JQ2_NK7sgVfzJ25_Vm6pU8aMXBUorwD6wXjPenKLuiCels/w691-h460/TFbtGV8s.jpeg" width="691" /></a></div><br /><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0px 0px 35px;"><br /></p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-20005676884559524832024-02-12T07:52:00.000-08:002024-02-13T10:41:02.705-08:00Diarra From Detroit to premiere on BET on March 21<p> </p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kaJxCnQjabw?si=0qUFW5dpnLJbaYF5" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;">BET+ has announced today that<span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;"> "DIARRA FROM DETROIT"</span> will premiere on <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Thursday, March 21</span>. <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">David Zayas </span>(<em style="box-sizing: inherit; overflow-anchor: none;">Dexter</em>), <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Harry Lennix </span>(<em style="box-sizing: inherit; overflow-anchor: none;">The Blacklist, Billions),</em> <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Paul Ben-Victor </span>(<em style="box-sizing: inherit; overflow-anchor: none;">The Wire, In Plain Sight</em>), and <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Bechir Sylvain </span>(<em style="box-sizing: inherit; overflow-anchor: none;">Claws</em>) join <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">“DIARRA FROM DETROIT”</span> as recurring guest stars, as well as <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Kash Doll </span>(<em style="box-sizing: inherit; overflow-anchor: none;">BMF</em>), <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">John Salley </span>(<em style="box-sizing: inherit; overflow-anchor: none;">Bad Boys, LA’s Finest</em>), <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Icewear Vezzo</span>, and <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Julio Macias </span>(<em style="box-sizing: inherit; overflow-anchor: none;">On My Block</em>), who also appear in guest starring roles. They join the series alongside previously announced cast members, star and creator <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Diarra Kilpatrick</span>, <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Morris Chestnut</span>, <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Phylicia Rashad</span>, <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">DomiNque Perry</span>, <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Claudia Logan</span>, <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Bryan Terrell Clark</span><em style="box-sizing: inherit; overflow-anchor: none;">,</em> <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Shannon Wallace</span>, and <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Jon Chaffin</span>. </p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;">Character names for each recurring actor, along with links to individual headshots, can be found below:</p><ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-block-start: 1em; margin: 0px 0px 0in; overflow-anchor: none; padding: 0px; width: 714.237px;"><li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0px; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">David Zayas </span>as “Marshall” </li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0px; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Harry Lennix </span>as “Walter Harley” </li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0px; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Paul Ben-Victor </span>as “Zervas” </li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0px; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Bechir Sylvain </span>as “Roman”</li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0px; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Kash Doll </span>as “Maisha”</li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0px; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">John Salley</span> as “Tony Kincaid” </li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0px; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Icewear Vezzo</span> as “Leroy”</li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0px; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">Julio Macias</span> as “Young Marshall” (</li></ul><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: bolder; overflow-anchor: none;">"DIARRA FROM DETROIT"</span> follows a divorcing schoolteacher who refuses to believe she's been ghosted by her rebound Tinder date. Her search for the missing man pulls her into a decades-old mystery involving the Detroit underworld. As the case unfolds, her co-workers, friends, and lovers become unlikely allies as she falls down a dangerous rabbit hole. </p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; flex: 0 0 100%; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px; margin: 0in; overflow-anchor: none; text-align: justify;"> </p></div>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-70512735899681512342024-02-12T07:33:00.000-08:002024-02-12T07:33:59.869-08:00 Democrats Position the Gun Lobby in the 2024 Election<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Democrats Position the Gun Lobby in the 2024 Election</span></p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Rep. Maxwell Frost: "Donald Trump is bought and paid for directly by the NRA and it is not hyperbolic to say that." Those fighting words are a preview of the messages Democrats will send to block former Pres. Donald Trump from getting re-elected. Rampant gun violence is a top of the mind issue for Americans that Democrats have made progress on, and will be a ballot issue. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Frost, 27 said he got into politics due <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit;" tabindex="-1"></a></span>to the number of gun deaths that were occurring during high school. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">The Florida Democrat participated in a press call by the Biden Campaign ahead of the 6th anniversary of the mass shooting at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida.</div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">At the time, Trump welcomed the families of the victims of the tragedy to</div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">"It's been six years and I believe Donald Trump hasn't changed his stripes one bit. I believe Americans deserve true freedom. . .That true freedom is something Pres. Trump has been fighting for."</div></div>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-70338687715973138262024-02-10T22:54:00.000-08:002024-02-10T22:54:33.816-08:00NFL STARS SHINE BRIGHT: SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvPadviF-P6CBt59VPGjkhX7ZXS1JougWhWsEEuS-FCvUNv9utNKdrIU3-bsKte-31YjmnMVOGnUzSE7lYBlfvin9QFzq6dDr7b46fius8J8D0P57JWOFWGAKCc-ITgIUTrwlNiMuFYOYsU5JSYTyzRB3igF3XoK4idWSVbWu3ull5PpWyOfk4HAmAMs/s755/ewftpai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="755" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvPadviF-P6CBt59VPGjkhX7ZXS1JougWhWsEEuS-FCvUNv9utNKdrIU3-bsKte-31YjmnMVOGnUzSE7lYBlfvin9QFzq6dDr7b46fius8J8D0P57JWOFWGAKCc-ITgIUTrwlNiMuFYOYsU5JSYTyzRB3igF3XoK4idWSVbWu3ull5PpWyOfk4HAmAMs/w716-h494/ewftpai.jpg" width="716" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p> <span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Las Vegas, NV -</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> - </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">The vibrant Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Resort Casino set the stage for a historic evening of inspiration and entertainment as the "</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Super Bowl Soulful Celebration</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">" celebrated its quarter-century milestone. Hosted by the dynamic duo </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Cedric the Entertainer</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> and </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Tichina Arnold</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">, and under the musical direction of Emmy Award-winning and Grammy-nominated </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Adam Blackstone</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">, the event was an electrifying fusion of faith, fellowship, and football, directed by the talented </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Leon Knoles</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">. The one-hour special premieres tonight, </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Saturday,</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">February 10 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">at 8 p.m.</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">/9c </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">on</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;"> CBS</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> and streams on </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Paramount+ </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">(*live for Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers) as well as on demand on Pluto TV and </span><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001g25g2c5J45O5Dn1BDdFcqpzQjA8P_NQHxVJs57HhZVlZn91cAw87FYEtmHuQOP1o6RxshXGGRiQ9tC1zqDgUmLhnirmfJlR3fUOiHuh3e-KHx_eUccv-5sxZbnj3kBZs2ak7WKitKZA=&c=CjcR3ywowLZNb6vVpuEqpFGInAJP3j7F1iNsp5ELf5UQcJlxcXmA3A==&ch=cGHBCQrOUZm5j7GDQ2LeAVtU7GtMue-NXSeKCOLzNSmqLPglWfW9jQ==" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: black; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">cbs.com</a><span style="color: #403f42; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> for 90</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> days after the special airs.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">The show features performances from a stellar lineup of artists, including </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Earth, Wind & Fire, T-Pain, Rachel Platten, Mickey Guyton, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Robin Thicke, The Players Choir</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">, and more. </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Southern University’s "HBCU Band Drumline</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">, also known as the “</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Human Jukebox</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">,” helped open the star-studded event, showcasing the rich talent and cultural pride of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), a wonderful way to highlight Black History Month. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">It's a monumental moment where the spirit of football and cultural pride unite, promising an unforgettable kickoff to the biggest weekend in sports that will set hearts racing and fans cheering.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">Themed "Just Believe," the celebration aims to uplift and inspire, providing a platform for some of the most dynamic talents in the soul and R&B scene to shine. From the recognition of HBCU alumni like </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Markquese Bell, </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">the "New Beginnings" award</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;"> </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">presentation to</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;"> Damar Hamlin </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">and his parents,</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> and to the heartfelt testimony of </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">CJ Stroud</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> during "The Faith in Action" award presentation, the event touched on themes of community, faith, and purpose.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">In his acceptance speech, Stroud expressed how he discovered his purpose to serve the Lord and inspire youth, driven by the talent instilled in his heart. Encouraging others to use their burning passions as fuel for God's calling, he emphasized how a mentor empowered him with these words of wisdom: </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">"Your passion is greedy but your purpose is for others!"</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Nate Burleson</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important;"> was honored with the Lifetime of Inspiration award, with CBS Mornings Host </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Gayle King</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important;"> attending in support and participating in the presentation via a video package.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">Earth, Wind & Fire and T-Pain's collaboration undoubtedly stole the show, setting a high standard for the energy and excitement of the upcoming Super Bowl. The event's emphasis on the significance of national HBCUs further highlighted its commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering unity.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">As the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration reached its crescendo, the high vibration energy in the house undoubtedly left attendees buzzing with anticipation for the big game. With its blend of music, inspiration, football players and star-studded performances, the event once again proved itself as an essential part of the Super Bowl experience, providing a soulful and celebratory kickoff to one of the year's most anticipated sporting events. Don't miss this epic fusion of sports and soul, where history is made and the future is bright!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a191a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;">Super Bowl Soulful Celebration,</span><span style="color: #1a191a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;"> formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), is founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #403f42; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none !important;">THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY is executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as Director, with Grammy-nominated artist Adam Blackstone serving as music director.</span></p>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9179209869312892341.post-16858707193926194092024-02-05T21:54:00.000-08:002024-02-05T21:54:49.562-08:00Superbowl Soulful Celebration Announcement<iframe width="480" height="360" src="https://youtube.com/embed/RlrHNvQmwJI?si=QiZD1SNmXVa1QY24" frameborder="0"></iframe>The Slice Newshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06336507234678260334noreply@blogger.com