U.S. Mint to issue Maya Angelou Quarter

The Maya Angelou Quarter is the first coin in the American Women Quarters™ Program. Maya Angelou was a celebrated writer, performer, and social activist. She rose to international prominence as an author after the publication of her groundbreaking autobiography “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” Angelou’s published works of verse, non-fiction, and fiction include more than 30 bestselling titles.

The American Women Quarters Program is a four-year program that celebrates the accomplishments and contributions made by women to the development and history of our country. Beginning in 2022, and continuing through 2025, the U.S. Mint will issue up to five new reverse designs each year. The obverse of each coin will maintain a likeness of George Washington, but is different from the design used during the previous quarter program.

Look for these quarters in your change. Or shop online and enroll in this groundbreaking program to sign up to receive all four annual installments as they become available. Limited quantities will be produced, so enroll today to ensure you receive a complete collection!

NYC Council Selects Adrienne Adams to Be 1st Black Speaker

The New York City Council will have its first Black leader after Adrienne Adams was chosen as the council’s speaker Wednesday.

Adams, a Democrat from Queens, was elected to serve as speaker on a 49-2 vote by council members.

Adrienne Adams takes over the role of council speaker from Corey Johnson, who was term-limited.

Adams will preside over the city’s first-ever majority female council, with women making up 31 of the 51 members of the council sworn in Wednesday.

Adams’ term as speaker runs through the end of 2023.

7 Historically Black Colleges and Universities receive bomb threats

At least seven historically Black colleges and universities received bomb threats Tuesday, school officials said, triggering abrupt evacuations of students and employees.

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Florida Memorial University, Howard University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina Central University, Prairie View A&M University in Texas, and Xavier University of Louisiana reported bomb threats. No explosions occurred.

The schools ordered evacuations or lockdowns and alerted local law enforcement.

"Although the threat was unfounded we ask that everyone remains vigilant," a statement from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff said, adding that the full student body hadn't yet returned from the holiday break but those who were there were relocated off campus.

Pine Bluff officials said their school received a threat about 5:15 p.m. Shortly after that, North Carolina Central University police received a call regarding a bomb threat on campus. The five other schools didn't immediately disclose the timing of their threats, though they said the messages had arrived during the afternoon or evening.

It was not immediately clear whether the threats were connected or whether they were racially motivated. By early Wednesday, all of the schools had released all-clear notices to their communities.

[SOURCE: SFGATE]

Congressional Black Caucus taps Kamala Harris aide as its new executive director

The Congressional Black Caucus said Tuesday that it was naming an aide to Vice President Kamala Harris as its new executive director.

Vince Evans is returning to Capitol Hill after nearly a year in the vice president’s office as Harris' deputy director of public engagement and intergovernmental affairs.

As executive director of the 56-member CBC, Evans will work closely with the group's chair, Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), to help execute her vision.

“Vincent will help the CBC reach greater heights and make substantive advances in 2022,” Beatty said. “In addition to his experience, he brings great passion for further strengthening the CBC’s top priorities moving forward.”

In a statement, Evans said he is “deeply honored” to be chosen for the post.

“I started my career in Washington working for a member of the CBC, so I know firsthand the tremendous leadership and impact this caucus has in Congress and across the country,” Evans said. “As we write the next chapter of the CBC story, I am excited for the opportunity to lend my experience and passion for supporting the collective vision of this storied caucus.”

Evans will function as a chief of staff for one of Congress' most influential caucuses, overseeing its daily activities and working with members and their top aides to coordinate and implement priorities and legislative agenda.

Washington Football Team will NOT be called the Red Tails

By George L. Cook III African American Reports

Two years after the Washington Football Team dropped its name which many considered racist , the team has announced that on February 2, 2022, they will announce a new team name.

While Many wanted a name that represented the military, some of us were more specific and wanted the team to be called the Red Tails after the legendary Tuskegee Airmen.

The name Red Tails comes from the distinctive deep red color that the pilots painted the tails of their planes.

Unfortunately, it appears that the team will not be called the Red Tails. Per ESPN WFT co-CEO Tanya Snyder confirmed that the final eight candidates were Armada, Presidents, Brigade, Redhawks, Commanders, RedWolves, Defenders and Football Team.

To be honest, my first thought was that this is some bullsh*t. Once I calmed down I realized that while it's not the change that I and others may have wanted, it's still better than the old team name.

It's still some B.S. though.

Rep. Bobby Rush to retire after 30 years in Congress

Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) said Monday he will not seek reelection after 15 terms in Congress.

Rush told the Chicago Sun-Times he made the decision in the past several weeks and that it was a result of a conversation he had with his grandson.

“I don’t want my grandchildren . . . to know me from a television news clip or something they read in a newspaper,” Rush told the Sun-Times.

“I want them to know me on an intimate level, know something about me and I want to know something about them. I don’t want to be a historical figure to my grandchildren.”

Rush co-founded the Illinois chapter of the Black Panthers, becoming acting chairman following the killings of Fred Hampton and Mark Clark in a police raid in December 1969.

Rush, 75, was first elected to Congress in 1992, said in an interview he intends to stay active in his ministry and find ways to use his remarkable life story — a trajectory from a 1960s radical to House member — to inspire younger generations.

He notably defeated then-Illinois Sen. Barack Obama in a 2000 Democratic primary for the the state's 1st Congressional District. He served previously as a Chicago alderman.

[SOURCE: THE HILL]

Whoopi Goldberg tests positive for COVID-19

On Monday's The View, co-host Joy Behar explained moderator Goldberg's absence by revealing Goldberg tested positive for COVID over the holidays.

"Whoopi unfortunately tested positive over the break," Behar explained. "Since she's vaxxed and boosted, her symptoms have been very, very mild."

She said Goldberg would "be back probably next week," adding that the ABC talk show is "being super cautious" about COVID amid the surge.

.@JoyVBehar shares on #TheView that @WhoopiGoldberg tested positive for COVID-19 over the holiday break and is recovering at home: "Since she's vaxxed and boosted, her symptoms have been very, very mild."

Get well soon, Whoopi! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Oo1Qakfbcn

— The View (@TheView) January 3, 2022

Maxine Waters Says Marjorie Taylor Greene Should Not Be In Congress

During an interview with Rev. Al Sharpton on his Politics Nation show, Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA) branded Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) an "Extremist Radical" who has "no business" in the House after the congresswoman was permanently banned from Twitter. Watch that portion of the interview below:

Alvin Bragg Makes History As Manhattan’s First African-American District Attorney

Manhattan’s new District Attorney made history Saturday.

Alvin Bragg, Jr. was sworn in during a private ceremony at City Hall with his family standing with him.

Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on COVID Status

Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III after positive COVID-19 test:

I tested positive this morning for COVID-19. I requested the test today after exhibiting symptoms while at home on leave.

My symptoms are mild, and I am following my physician’s directions.

In keeping with those directions, and in accordance with CDC guidelines, I will quarantine myself at home for the next five days.

Stemming the spread of this virus, safeguarding our workforce and ensuring my own speedy and safe recovery remain my priorities. To the degree possible, I plan to attend virtually this coming week those key meetings and discussions required to inform my situational awareness and decision making. I will retain all authorities. Deputy Secretary Hicks will represent me as appropriate in other matters.

I have informed my leadership team of my positive test result, as well as the President. My staff has begun contact tracing and testing of all those with whom I have come into contact over the last week.

My last meeting with President Biden occurred on Tuesday, December 21st, more than a week before I began to experience symptoms. I tested negative that very morning. I have not been in the Pentagon since Thursday, where I met briefly - and only - with a few members of my staff. We were properly masked and socially distanced throughout.

As my doctor made clear to me, my fully vaccinated status — and the booster I received in early October — have rendered the infection much more mild than it would otherwise have been. And I am grateful for that.

The vaccines work and will remain a military medical requirement for our workforce. I continue to encourage everyone eligible for a booster shot to get one. This remains a readiness issue.

Barack Obama New Years Message

Former United States President, Barack Obama released the following New Years message via Twitter:

I’m hopeful about 2022. This year will undoubtedly have its challenges, just like 2021 did. But we’ve made it this far—and I still believe we can build a brighter future together. Happy New Year!

Vice President Kamala Harris New Years Message

Vice President Kamala Harris released the following New Years message via Twitter:

As we walk into this new year, I’ve never been more optimistic for our shared future. Together, over the past year, we have overcome incredible challenges. In this new year, I know we can make incredible progress as a nation. I wish you and yours a happy and a healthy 2022.

Eric Adams Sworn In As New York City’s 110th Mayor

Eric Adams was sworn in as the 110th mayor of New York City just after the ball dropped at midnight on Saturday. Adams held a picture of his mother and used his family’s bible to take the oath of office in Times Square with members of his family by his side.

Terrell Sims is missing

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Columbia Police are asking for the public's help finding a man not seen in almost two weeks.

Police said 26-year-old Terrell Sims was last seen on Dec. 20 at a home on Ervin Street and was reported missing on Dec. 22. Now at the end of the month, Sims is still missing.

Relatives who reported him missing said it's unlike him not to make contact - especially during the holidays. As such, police are asking anyone who may have information on Sims' location to contact Midlands Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.

Houston Teen, Ireyana Watts is Missing

Houston police are asking for your help to find a missing teen girl.

Ireyana Watts, 15, was last seen leaving the 7800 block of Knox Street, but it's not clear which way she went.

Police say Watts' loved ones haven't heard from her since Dec 19.

Ireyana Watts is 5 foot 3 inches tall. She also goes by the nickname Danise.

Anyone with any information should call the HPD Missing Persons Division at 832-394-1840.

You can also call the Houston Police Patrol at 713-884-3131.

Rep. Ayanna Pressley statement on testing positive for COVID-19

Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) issued the following statement after receiving a positive COVID-19 test result:

“After experiencing COVID-like symptoms, this morning I received a positive, breakthrough COVID-19 test result. Thankfully, my symptoms are relatively mild, and I am grateful to be fully vaccinated and boosted. I am currently isolating and following all health protocols in order to mitigate further spread and keep my loved ones and community safe.

“Vaccines save lives. With this unprecedented pandemic continuing to rage, I am deeply grateful for the scientists, researchers, and frontline healthcare workers who have worked tirelessly to develop vaccines that are safe and effective, and ensure that our communities are protected. I encourage everyone to do their part by getting vaccinated, boosted and masking up. I wish everyone a safe and happy new year and look forward to continuing to fight for the robust relief our communities in the Massachusetts 7th need and deserve.”

Boston Celtics legend Sam Jones dies at 88

Boston Celtics legend Sam Jones has died at the age of 88, the team confirmed to the Associated Press. Jones had been hospitalized in Florida. The team held a moment of silence before Friday's game against the Phoenix Suns in honor of Jones.

Jones was a key figure in Boston's dynasty in the 1960s, winning 10 NBA championships in total as a member of the Celtics. Only Bill Russell, with 11, won more. Jones made five All-Star teams and averaged 17.7 points per game across 12 seasons in the league. Called "Mr. Clutch" during his career, Jones hit a number of game-winning shots during his career and consistently raised his scoring in the postseason.

Jones was the No. 8 overall pick in the 1957 NBA Draft after a decorated career at North Carolina Central. He was thereafter inducted into both the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame and NAIA Basketball Hall of Fame before eventually earning enshrinement in the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984. He was part of the NBA's 25th, 50th and 75th anniversary teams. Jones coached briefly after his retirement, including as an assistant for one season with the New Orleans Jazz.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Sam Jones

45th Black Heritage Stamp series honors sculptor Edmonia Lewis

The 45th stamp in the USPS Black Heritage series honors sculptor Edmonia Lewis (circa 1844-1907). As the first African American and Native American sculptor to achieve international recognition, Lewis challenged social barriers and assumptions about artists in mid-19th century America.

The stamp art is a casein-on-wood portrait of Lewis, based on a photograph taken in Boston between 1864 and 1871. Art director Antonio Alcalá designed the stamp with original art by Alex Bostic.

The stamp's first day of issue will be January 26, 2022 where it will be unveiled during a ceremony at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. The stamp can be purchased at the postal service's online store and at post offices.

The stamp will be sold in panes of 20 and can be purchased at the USPS site here: Edmonia Lewis Stamp

Candace Parker voted AP Female Athlete of Year

Candace Parker, 35, helped the Chicago Sky win the franchise's first WNBA championship and capped off 2021 by being named The Associated Press' Female Athlete of the Year for a second time.

The 13 years since her first AP athlete of the year honors ties Parker with Babe Didrikson Zaharias for the longest time between winning in the 80-year history of the award. The award was voted on by a panel of sports editors. Parker received 11 first-place votes, edging out swimmer Katie Ledecky and gymnast Simone Biles.

Parker is the only WNBA player to win the AP Female Athlete of the Year award.

Parker was named the AP award winner her rookie year with the Sparks in 2008, when she was honored as the WNBA's MVP and top rookie. She also guided the Sparks to the championship in 2016 and is one of 14 players to have won a college, WNBA and Olympic title. She played college ball at Tennessee, where she won two titles.

Amanda Gorman releases New Year's Poem

In collaboration with Instagram, Amanda Gorman on Wednesday released her new, New Year’s-based poem titled “New Day’s Lyric,” in which she reflects on the year 2021 and looks ahead to 2022. Wach video of her reciting her poem and read the transcript below:

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Transcript of New Day's Lyric

“New Day’s Lyric”

May this be the day
We come together.
Mourning, we come to mend,
Withered, we come to weather,
Torn, we come to tend,
Battered, we come to better.
Tethered by this year of yearning,
We are learning
That though we weren’t ready for this,
We have been readied by it.
We steadily vow that no matter
How we are weighed down,
We must always pave a way forward.

This hope is our door, our portal.
if we never get back to normal,
Someday we can venture beyond it,
To leave the known and take the first steps.
So let us not return to what was normal,
But reach toward what is next.

What was cursed, we will cure.
What was plagued, we will prove pure.
Where we tend to argue, we will try to agree,
Those fortunes we forswore, now the future we foresee,
Where we weren’t aware, we’re now awake;
Those moments we missed
Are now these moments we make,
The moments we meet,
And our hearts, once all together beaten,
Now all together beat.

Come, look up with kindness yet,
For even solace can be sourced from sorrow.
We remember, not just for the sake of yesterday,
But to take on tomorrow.

We heed this old spirit,
In a new day’s lyric,
In our hearts, we hear it:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne.
Be bold, sang Time this year,
Be bold, sang Time,
For when you honor yesterday,
Tomorrow ye will find.
Know what we’ve fought
Need not be forgot nor for none.
It defines us, binds us as one,
Come over, join this day just begun.
For wherever we come together,
We will forever overcome.