Tennessee’s food banks lost millions of dollars in federal funding last year because state officials missed two deadlines to submit a plan to distribute the money.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded Tennessee $108 million in emergency food assistance in 2021. The money was intended to help food banks and other organizations purchase food for people in need.
But Tennessee officials missed a deadline to submit a plan to the USDA on how the money would be distributed. As a result, the USDA reallocated the money to other states.
The loss of funding has had a significant impact on Tennessee’s food banks. Many food banks have had to reduce their services or close altogether.
The USDA has said that it is working with Tennessee officials to develop a plan to distribute the emergency food assistance funding. But it is unclear when the plan will be finalized.
In the meantime, Tennessee’s food banks are struggling to meet the needs of the people they serve. Many food banks are reporting that they are seeing an increase in demand for food assistance. The loss of federal funding is a major setback for Tennessee’s food banks. It is unclear how the food banks will be able to continue to operate without the funding.
Black women, like Bessie Coleman, have taken to the skies since the era of aviation broke dawn. The history of Black women in aviation is an important one, especially as part of a robust Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) movement to secure the sacred spaces Black women hold in industry and society. Black women have since time in memorial carried the heavy burden of discrimination, racism, inequality and outright mistreatment and misogamy that has historically blocked their access and participation at every level of man’s social construct.
With a feverish resistance to the DEI movement across the country, it is imperative that Black women are supported and protected. And in that spirit, it is fitting to recognize an important face in the aviation crowd: Chrystal Dunbar, OBAP Northeast Assistant Regional Director United Airlines – First Officer.
Dunbar is a first officer at United Airlines who got her start in aviation at Eagle Flight Pilot Training Academy in East Orange, NJ at the age of 13. According to her profile, “after receiving her pilot’s license, she went on to study at Daniel Webster College in New Hampshire. Chrystal graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Management/Flight Operations. After flying for Chautauqua Airlines for 5 years, Chrystal was hired by Continental Airlines (now United Airlines) in 2005. She is currently based in Newark, NJ and flying the Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft.”
The aviation industry has historically been dominated by men, and African American women have faced significant barriers to entry and advancement. However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in aviation.
Challenges faced by African American Women Pilots
African American women pilots face a number of challenges, including:
Stereotypes and biases: African American women are often stereotyped as being less capable pilots than men. This can lead to discrimination in hiring, promotion, and other areas.
Lack of role models: There are relatively few African American women pilots, which can make it difficult for young women to find role models and mentors.
Financial barriers: Aviation is a male-dominated industry. This can make it difficult for African American women to access the financial resources they need to pursue a career in aviation.
Efforts to promote DEI in aviation
There are a number of efforts underway to promote DEI in aviation. These include:
Mentorship programs: Mentorship programs can help young African American women connect with experienced pilots and mentors who can provide guidance and support.
Scholarships and grants: Scholarships and grants can help African American women overcome financial barriers to pursuing a career in aviation.
Outreach programs: Outreach programs can help to increase awareness of aviation careers among African American women.
Industry initiatives: The aviation industry is also working to promote DEI through initiatives such as the FAA’s NextGen Diversity and Inclusion Initiative.
African American Women Pilots in Aviation
Despite the challenges they face, there are a number of African American women who have made significant contributions to aviation. These include:
Bessie Coleman: Bessie Coleman was the first African American woman to earn a pilot’s license. She went on to become a barnstorming stunt pilot and airshow performer.
Harriet Quimby: Harriet Quimby was the first American woman to earn a pilot’s license. She went on to become a famous air racer and set several world records.
Mae Jemison: Mae Jemison was the first African American woman to travel to space. She was a crew member on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992.
Kimberly Bryant: Kimberly Bryant is the founder and CEO of Black Girls CODE, a non-profit organization that provides technology education to young African American girls.
The Future of DEI in Aviation
Chrystal Dunbar with her mom Joanne and daughter Isabella.
The future of DEI in aviation is bright. Dunbar who was supported by her mother Joanne to pursue a career in aviation is now supporting her own daughter, Isabella, who is also embarking on a successful career in aviation at Eagle Flight Squadron, Inc. There is a growing movement to promote DEI in the industry, and there are a number of African American women who are making significant contributions to aviation, including United Airlines First Officer, Chrystal Dunbar. With continued efforts, the aviation industry can become more diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
For those interested in pursuing a career in aviation can seek support and additional resources by clicking on the following links below:
In 1978, a dedicated teacher in New York promised his students an eclipse party on April 8, 2024 when the next total solar eclipse was scheduled to occur. “When he said we were going to meet for the eclipse and he held true to it, here we are,” Nancy Mintz said according to a Democrat & Chronicle article.
Kendra Denson, of Rochester, who was in Moriarty’s class in 1984, cried as the eclipse took place. Later, she stood shoulder to shoulder with old friend Jennifer Heaphy, who is a current Webster teacher, reminiscing about the time they pranked Moriarty, getting him to dash out of his classroom because Denson had, falsely, fallen down a school staircase. “To see all the different classes join together — this was, to me, a true class reunion,” Denson said.
The Eclipse Promise:
Mr. Patrick Moriarty taught at the Webster Central School District in New York.
He promised his students in 1978 that they would have an eclipse party on April 8, 2024 when a total solar eclipse was set to occur.
A Memorable Experience:
Mr. Moriarty’s dedication and creativity made the eclipse party a memorable and educational experience for everyone who attended. “I thought it would be a nice little core of people who were totally into eclipses, and maybe they’d share the experience with me,” Moriarty said to the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. “But it’s not about the eclipse any more. It’s about this. It’s about the sharing. It’s about the impact of teachers. It’s about so much more.”
A Lasting Legacy:
Mr. Moriarty’s eclipse party is now a legendary tale in New York and the Webster Central School District community.
It is a reminder of the power of teachers to inspire and motivate their students.
Mr. Moriarty’s eclipse promise is a testament of the immeasurable value and importance of teachers and an exemplary example of how one person can make a difference in the lives of many.
The solar eclipse of April 8, 2024 will be a total solar eclipse. It will be the first total solar eclipse to cross the United States since 2017, and it will be the first to cross the entire country since 1979.
The eclipse will begin at sunrise in Mexico and move across the United States, ending at sunset in Canada. The path of totality, where the Moon completely blocks the Sun, will be about 100 miles (160 km) wide and will cross 13 states:
Texas
Oklahoma
Arkansas
Missouri
Illinois
Indiana
Ohio
Pennsylvania
New York
Vermont
New Hampshire
Maine
Canada
The total solar eclipse will be visible for up to 4 minutes and 26 seconds along the path of totality. Observers outside the path of totality will see a partial solar eclipse, where the Moon covers only part of the Sun.
Safety
It is important to view a solar eclipse safely. Looking directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent damage to your eyes. Never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or a solar filter.
How to View the Eclipse
There are several ways to view the solar eclipse safely. You can:
Use eclipse glasses or a solar filter. Eclipse glasses are specially designed to filter out harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the Sun. Solar filters can be attached to telescopes or binoculars to make them safe for viewing the Sun.
Project the image of the Sun onto a surface. You can do this by using a pinhole projector or a telescope.
Watch a live stream of the eclipse online. Many organizations will be broadcasting the eclipse live on the Internet.
What to Expect
During a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s light. This creates a dramatic effect, as the sky darkens and the stars become visible. The temperature may also drop suddenly, and animals may behave strangely.
The total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024 will be a rare and awe-inspiring event. If you are in the path of totality, be sure to take the time to experience it safely.
Native American Teachings on the Eclipse
How Scientists Need Your Help Observing the April 8 Eclipse
People inside or near the totality can sign up to take part in at least four different projects, from watching animal behavior to photographing the sun’s corona, weather permitting, to recording the soundscape of the eclipse. There are also state-level projects being organized in Indiana, Ohio and elsewhere. Click HERE to learn about the Solar Eclipse Safari project and take part in the national effort to gather information from this rare celestial event.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a new alert regarding Form I-693, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility. The alert provides important information for applicants who are filing or have filed Form I-693.
What is Form I-693?
Form I-693 is used to request a waiver of certain grounds of inadmissibility to the United States. These grounds include health-related issues, criminal convictions, and other factors that may make an applicant ineligible for admission to the United States.
What is the new alert about?
The new alert clarifies the process for filing Form I-693 and provides updated information on the evidence that is required to support the waiver request. The alert also addresses the issue of expedited processing for Form I-693. USCIS shared the update on social media highlighting that some applicants, including those who may have filed Green Cards based on Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status, had been sent a ‘Request for Evidence’ for Form I-693. The message prompted them to respond as soon as possible so their adjustment application status could be finalized.
“If you applied for an employment-based (including Special Immigrant Juvenile) Green Card & we sent you a Request for Evidence for your Form I-693, please respond as soon as possible so we can finalize a decision on your adjustment application.” Lear more HERE.
Who is affected by the new alert?
The new alert affects all applicants who are filing or have filed Form I-693. It is important for applicants to review the alert carefully and ensure that they are filing the form correctly and submitting the required evidence.
What should applicants do?
Applicants who are filing or have filed Form I-693 should review the new alert and ensure that they are following the updated instructions. Applicants should also gather the required evidence to support their waiver request.
Where can applicants find more information?
Applicants can find more information about the new alert and Form I-693 on the USCIS website. Applicants can also contact the USCIS Contact Center for assistance.
The U.S. House of Representatives Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) is shutting down its operations and DEI mission as part of the FY2024 Appropriations package passed Friday. The department will be replaced by the Office of Talent Management under the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer according to a statement on the department’s website. ODI was formed as a nonpartisan office that worked to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all employees of the House. ODI worked to identify and eliminate barriers to diversity and inclusion, and to promote a culture of respect and understanding.
ODI’s Mission
Since ODI’s creation in the 116th Congress, its mission was to create a workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and included. ODI worked to achieve this mission by:
Identifying and eliminating barriers to diversity and inclusion
Promoting a culture of respect and understanding
Providing resources and support to employees
Advocating for policies that promote diversity and inclusion
ODI’s Programs and Services
ODI offered a variety of programs and services to employees, including:
Diversity and inclusion training
Mentoring and sponsorship programs
Employee resource groups
Conflict resolution services
Ombuds services
ODI’s Impact
ODI has made significant progress in creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace for House employees. In 2019, ODI was recognized by the National LGBTQ Task Force with the Corporate Equality Award for its work on LGBTQ+ workplace equality. ODI has also been recognized by the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR) for its work on Hispanic workplace equality.
César Chávez Day, also known as Cesar Chavez Day or simply Chávez Day, is an American federal holiday commemorating American labor leader and civil rights activist César Chávez. It is observed annually on March 31, or on the following Monday if March 31 falls on a Sunday.
Brief History
César Chávez Day was established by the United States Congress in 2014, signed into law by former President Barack Obama and was first observed in 2015. The holiday was created to honor Chávez’s legacy of fighting for the rights of farmworkers and other marginalized communities. “Chavez left a legacy as an educator, environmentalist, and a civil rights leader. And his cause lives on. As farm workers and laborers across America continue to struggle for fair treatment and fair wages, we find strength in what Cesar Chavez accomplished so many years ago. And we should honor him for what he’s taught us about making America a stronger, more just, and more prosperous nation,” said then President Obama.
Significance
César Chávez Day is a time to reflect on Chávez’s life and work, and to celebrate his contributions to the civil rights movement and the labor movement. It is also a time to recommit ourselves to the fight for social justice and economic equality. Chávez Day is also commemorated to promote service to the community in honor of Chavez’s life and work.
How to Observe
There are many ways to observe César Chávez Day. Here are a few ideas:
Learn more about César Chávez. Read books, articles, and websites about his life and work.
Watch a documentary about Chávez. There are several documentaries available, including “Cesar’s Last Fast” and “The Fight in the Fields.”
Attend a César Chávez Day event. Many communities hold events to commemorate the holiday, such as parades, festivals, and workshops.
Volunteer your time to a cause that Chávez cared about. This could include working with farmworkers, fighting for immigrant rights, or promoting environmental justice.
Educate others about César Chávez. Talk to your friends, family, and community members about his life and work.
César Chávez Day is a day to celebrate the legacy of a great American hero. It is also a day to recommit ourselves to the fight for social justice and economic equality.
“Once social change begins it cannot be reversed. You cannot uneducate the person who has learned to read. You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. You cannot oppress the people who are not afraid anymore…you cannot stamp out a people’s cause.”
The issue of abortion rights in the United States has been a contentious one for decades, and the Supreme Court has played a central role in shaping the legal landscape surrounding abortion. Here is a brief overview of some key events and decisions related to abortion rights and the Supreme Court:
Roe v. Wade (1973)
The Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution protects a woman’s right to have an abortion.
The Court held that this right is not absolute, and that states may regulate abortion in certain ways, such as by requiring parental consent or a waiting period.
Roe v. Wade is considered a landmark decision in the history of abortion rights in the United States.
Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992)
The Supreme Court reaffirmed the essential holding of Roe v. Wade, but upheld some state regulations on abortion.
The Court held that states may not impose an “undue burden” on a woman’s right to have an abortion.
Planned Parenthood v. Casey is considered to be a significant precedent in abortion law.
Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022)
The Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, holding that there is no constitutional right to abortion.
The Court held that the issue of abortion should be left to the states, and that each state is free to regulate or ban abortion as it sees fit.
Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization is a major setback for abortion rights in the United States.
The Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization is likely to have a significant impact on abortion access in the United States. It is likely that many states will ban or severely restrict abortion in the wake of this decision. The long-term implications of this decision are still unknown, but it is clear that the right to abortion in the United States is now in jeopardy.
On Tuesday abortion rights returned to the Supreme Court since conservative justices overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Here are the key takeaways from The Hill.
According to the AP, “The central argument of the conservative group challenging mifepristone is that the Food and Drug Administration overlooked serious problems with the drug when it eased restrictions on the drug, including making it available via mail in 2021.”
Alliance Defending Freedom, as reported by the Washington Post, “a conservative group that has been involved in antiabortion litigation, filed the suit in Amarillo on behalf of four antiabortion medical organizations and four doctors who had treated patients with the drug. The suit also named the Health and Human Services Department as a defendant.”
Baltimore city officials have announced a plan to sell vacant properties for $1 to residents who are willing to rehabilitate them. The program is part of the city’s efforts to address the issue of vacant properties, which have become a blight on many neighborhoods.
Under the program, residents will be able to purchase vacant properties for $1, but they will have to agree to rehabilitate the properties within a certain period of time. The city will provide technical assistance and financial assistance to help residents rehabilitate the properties.
The program is expected to generate revenue for the city and help revitalize neighborhoods. It is also expected to create jobs and boost the local economy.
Here are some of the key details of the program:
The program is open to residents of Baltimore city who are willing to rehabilitate vacant properties.
Residents will be able to purchase vacant properties for $1.
Residents will have to agree to rehabilitate the properties within a certain period of time.
The city will provide technical assistance and financial assistance to help residents rehabilitate the properties.
The program is expected to generate revenue for the city and help revitalize neighborhoods.
It is also expected to create jobs and boost the local economy.
The new housing proposal is modeled after the city’s previous property program from the 1970s when Baltimore had a “dollar house” program, in which residents got to own vacant properties for $1 each under the requirement of fixing them. The Baltimore Board of Estimates approved the program on March 20.
The program was designed mainly for individual buyers and community land trusts. However, for $3,000, developers and large nonprofits can also purchase unoccupied houses (small nonprofits would pay $1,000) as reported by The Baltimore Sun and Afrotech. Home repair grants of $50,000 would also be available to Baltimore recipients who are pre-approved for a construction loan.
For all the details on the resurfaced $1 affordable home ownership policy, visit the Buy Into Bmore website HERE.
Small studies offer hope CAR-T can fight an aggressive brain cancer
A series of new studies are raising hopes that CAR-T, a process in which treatments are made by genetically editing a patient’s own white blood cells, can eventually be used to treat an incurable and deadly type of brain cancer, called glioblastoma multiforme, or GBM.
In the most dramatic result, from a three-person study conducted by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital, a 72-year-old man saw his tumor shrink 18.5% in just two days and then decrease further over the next two months until it was 60% smaller than when treatment began. That’s notable because glioblastoma is a cancer where drugs can normally only prevent a tumor from growing. Researchers say the results, published in the New England Journal of Medicine on Wednesday, do not mean the treatment is ready to be used widely but give reason to think they are on the right track.
This article was first published in STAT a trusted publication about health, medicine, and the life sciences.
