A new program administered by the Urban League of Greater Madison or ULGM (Madison, WI) and funded by American Family Insurance will provide loans to new and emerging minority-owned businesses located in Madison’s new South Side hub, according to a press release issued Thursday.

The economic development project announced in July is being developed along Madison’s South Park Street corridor under the direction of ULGM President and CEO Dr. Ruben L. Anthony, Jr., and in partnership with a group of stakeholders including the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce, city and county government leaders, and other neighborhood stakeholders. The project arose out of more than two years of community engagement that involved hundreds of South Madison residents, non-profit agencies, elected officials, business leaders and many others.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Friday (February 26) announced the state will partner with local health departments to include vaccination sites for the 65-plus population across New York. These sites will be in partnership with local health departments and, where needed, will provide assistance to New Yorkers with transportation to and from the vaccination facilities and special support for paperwork regarding their vaccination.

As New York's vaccine allocations increase, these 65-plus priority facilities and appointments will be enabled from additional supply from the federal government. Counties across the state will be getting an increased supply of Moderna vaccine for this purpose starting next week.

The Columbia Urban League hosted its 35th Annual Black History Month Young and Gifted Awards Program honoring high school seniors.

This year’s theme was “Achievement Matters.”

The virtual event was held on Sunday, February 28, at 3 p.m. To watch the program in full, click or tap here.

More than 700 African American high school seniors who excel in the areas of academics, athletics, arts, leadership, and technical education and have earned a 3.0-grade point average will be recognized. Organizers say seniors from Allendale, Clarendon, Fairfield, Florence, Kershaw, Lee, Lexington, Marion, Newberry, Richland, and Sumter counties were nominated by their school.

Each student will receive a personalized award that acknowledges their achievements.

It’s a celebration! Kick off Women’s History Month with us on Monday for a special announcement honoring women of power. | Congress has no excuse. The current culture of law enforcement MUST be altered. Here’s why it’s imperative to hold officers accountable. | We need relief NOW. Black families + businesses need paycheck protection, $1400 stimulus checks + much more. Here ’s what you can do to help. | We are Black history! Marc Morial sits down with former National Urban League President, Hugh Price. Tune in. | Black businesses, this one is for you! We have partnered with Vice Media Group to launch an initiative dedicated to supporting YOU. Learn more.