by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman
September 25, 2024
Madame Tussauds Unveils Latest Nod To Rihanna’s Fashion Pedigree With Newest Wax Figure
The Fenty Beauty founder is a trailblazer in entertainment, entrepreneurship, and fashion, with her success further symbolized in this new wax figure.
Rihanna has a new wax figure by Madame Tussauds, featuring her in one of her many iconic gowns.
The Fenty Beauty founder’s additional wax figure symbolizes her success beyond entertainment. Taking direct inspiration from her Fenty custom mint dress she wore at the 2019 British Fashion Awards, the figure ingrains the powerhouse in fashion and wax history. Madame Tussauds shared a snippet of their latest creation on Instagram.
The museum also poked fun at the singer’s elusive stance on returning to music in their caption.
“Her tour hasn’t been confirmed yet, but her new figure has,” they wrote in the post.
Madame Tussauds has constantly brought iconic figures to life on wax, often sparing no details. The same vision remains upheld in Rihanna’s latest version. It features all of the look’s highlights, including her Fulani braids, which she wore during the real-life occasion. While adorned with a sparkling necklace and earrings, the minty dress is a replica of the mini gown.
The museum’s studio manager, Jo Kinsey, praised the decision to feature Rihanna in this particular outfit as an “unforgettable moment” that they wanted to showcase.
“Rihanna is a powerhouse in beauty, fashion, and music, truly shining like a Diamond. Her look at the 2019 British Fashion Awards made such a statement that we just had to replicate that unforgettable moment,” exclaimed Kinsey, as reported by the Daily Mail.
She added, “Rihanna holds a special place in everyone’s hearts, and now our visitors can experience her in All of the Lights! We’re thrilled to give fans an unforgettable moment with the ultimate boss.”
While Rihanna remains focused on growing her empire rather than releasing new music, fans can still bask in her waxy essence. The artwork will be displayed at Madame Tussauds’ London museum starting Sept. 27.
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman
September 25, 2024
Democratic Campaign Office In Arizona Damaged By Gunfire Ahead Of Kamala Harris’ Visit To State
This marks the second instance of gunfire toward the office in recent weeks.
A campaign office for Kamala Harris in Tempe, Arizona, has faced some gunfire damage mere days before the Democratic nominee stops in the state.
Workers called the police after noticing gunshot holes through the front windows. Tempe Police are viewing the Sept. 23 incident as a property crime, as shared in a statement to NBC News.
“We can confirm that on 9/23/24, what appears to be damage from gunfire at … a DNC Campaign Office was discovered,” the police detailed.
No one was inside the office at the time of the incident. The workspace serves not only the Harris campaign but also the Arizona Democratic Party and additional congressional campaigns it supports.
“No one was inside the office during the overnight hours, but this raises concerns about the safety of those who work in that building, as well as those nearby,” said Public Information Officer Sgt. Ryan Cook, in a statement.
However, this is the second instance of gunshots marking the premises in recent weeks. In the late hours of Sept. 16, the office’s front windows were shot with what police assumed to be a BB or pellet gun.
Arizona Democratic Party Chairwoman Yolanda Bejarano wrote that it was “extremely sad” their office spaces have become “the target of violence.”
She added, “We are working with law enforcement to ensure this threat is taken seriously and that our staff members are safe while they’re at work.”
Concerns remain as Harris returns to Arizona on Sept. 27, with reports sharing a potential visit at the border in the works. Arizona, a giant swing state in this election, hosts 18 field offices for the vice president’s campaign, including Tempe.
The city recently held a campaign event in August featuring Florida Democratic Rep. Maxwell Frost as a speaker. His speech even centered on gun control issues.
“We still have to work at ending gun violence,” said Frost, who also referenced the 2017 Parkland school shooting in Florida that occurred in his state. “We can work at creating a community where people don’t feel the need to use a gun to solve their problems in the first place.”
Considered a college town as it surrounds Arizona State University, Tempe’s younger electorate is a crucial Democratic group. A high voter turnout in the party’s favor could help solidify Harris’ win in a tightly-knit race this November.
by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors
September 25, 2024
ROCKET COMMUNITY FUND BRIDGES HOMEOWNERSHIP GAP WITH PROGRAMS, INVESTMENTS, PARTNERSHIPS
However, there is a nearly 30% gap between the 44% homeownership rate for Black Americans versus the 72% rate for white homeowners, based on National Association of Realtors reporting. This gap continues to grow and is worse than a decade ago.
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton
September 25, 2024
Maryland Woman Arrested After Allegedly Shooting 13-Year-Old Daughter
Detectives have arrested and charged 32-year-old Talecka Brown with first-degree attempted murder.
Police officials have charged a Maryland mother with attempted murder after alleging that she shot her 13-year-old daughter in the neck at their Seat Pleasant home.
According to the Seat Pleasant Police Department, detectives have arrested and charged 32-year-old Talecka Brown with first-degree attempted murder.
Seat Pleasant Police Officers Apprehend a Mother Who Shot Her Daughter https://t.co/IY8himO9lL pic.twitter.com/nQIVE6ovcs
— Seat Pleasant Police (@SPPDNews) September 24, 2024
The incident took place on Sept. 23. Police officers were summoned to the residence at approximately 4:50 p.m. after a report of a shooting at the home. When they arrived, the officers saw the unidentified girl suffering from a gunshot wound. She was taken to the local hospital, where she was listed in critical condition.
Investigators from the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Gun Crimes Unit discovered that Brown was responsible for the shooting and detained and charged her with first-degree attempted murder, amongst other charges.
Acting Chief of Police Cedric Heyward said, “I have to commend my officers for their rapid response and decisive actions at the scene. It is always tragic when we have acts of violence within our community, but it is heart-wrenching when the perpetrator is supposed to be your protector. I am glad to hear that the victim is recovering at a local hospital, but the emotional trauma will remain for some time. The Seat Pleasant Police Department is committed to working with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Prince George’s County Police to ensure we hold Ms. Brown accountable for her actions.”
NBC Washington reported that the daughter expressed to police officers at the hospital that she and her mother got into an altercation. When it was over, the daughter went to walk down the stairs and heard a gunshot and fell to the bottom of the stairs. After being hit, she wasn’t able to move, and her mother told her to tell police officers that she was shot by someone who broke into the home.
Brown did tell police officers that a homeless person shot her daughter, and she discovered her already bleeding when the girl got home from school.
Cops stated they could smell the scent of a discharged weapon inside the home and asked Brown if there was a gun in the house. She told them one was in a safe, but it wasn’t hers nor registered.
She gave conflicting accounts of what happened but eventually admitted that she was the only one in the house when her daughter was shot.
Brown is in custody and awaiting a bond review hearing on Sept. 25.
by Mitti Hicks
September 25, 2024
Haitian Nonprofit Fighting Back Against ‘Eating Pet’ Claims, Suing Trump-Vance Campaign
Many Haitian immigrants living in Springfield have been legally granted temporary protected status in the U.S.
A Haitian nonprofit in Springfield, Ohio, is fighting back against claims from former president Donald Trump and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, for their claims that Haitians are stealing people’s pets and eating them.
The leader of the nonprofit Haitian Bridge Alliance has filed charges against Trump and Vance over the chaos and threats the Haitian community experienced in Springfield. According to the AP, the nonprofit evoked a private citizen’s right to file charges after they said the local prosecutor failed to do something about the threats.
“Their persistence and relentlessness, even in the face of the governor and the mayor saying this is false, that shows intent,” said Attorney Subodh Chandra, representing the nonprofit.
There were more than 30 bomb threats directed at local and state government buildings and schools, causing many of these places to close down. Due to the uptick in threats, Gov. Mike DeWine ordered more security in Springfield. He called both Trump and Vance’s comments “baseless,” as Black Enterprise previously reported.
“If it were anyone else other than Trump and Vance who had done what they’ve done — wreak havoc on Springfield, resulting in bomb threats, evacuated and closed government buildings and schools, threats to the mayor and his family — they would have been arrested by now,” Chandra said. “They are not above the law.”
Vance doubled down on his claims even after they were proven to be false. He defended the unfounded claims, stating he is “willing to create stories” if it means the American media has “to pay attention to the suffering of American people” on CNN.
While there are no official numbers on how many Haitian immigrants live in Springfield, Mayor Rob Rue told CNN the city’s population increased by approximately 25% over the last several years. Many Haitian immigrants in Springfield have been legally granted temporary protected status in the U.S.
In a statement, Steven Cheung, who serves as the communications director for the Trump-Vance campaign, said, “President Trump is rightfully highlighting the failed immigration system that (Vice President) Kamala Harris has overseen, bringing thousands of illegal immigrants pouring into communities like Springfield and many others across the country.”
by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors
September 25, 2024
‘Elle Olivia’ And ‘When We All Vote’ Empower The Next Generation With HerFuture Collection Launch
The collaboration aims to unite families and encourage civic engagement
Elle Olivia, a lifestyle brand dedicated to empowering young girls, has teamed up with the national, nonpartisan voting initiative When We All Vote to launch the HerFuture apparel collection. This collaboration aims to unite families and encourage civic engagement to safeguard the future of young Black girls.
Marty McDonald, CEO and Founder of Elle Olivia, expressed her deep commitment to fostering a legacy of empowerment and inspiration for young women of color, drawing from her personal experiences as a mother. In particular, her own daughter was a key influence in shaping the vision behind the HerFuture collection. With a heartfelt desire to create something meaningful for the next generation, she shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE the significance of elevating young Black girls and equipping them with the tools to succeed.
“The HerFuture collection stems from a deep desire to protect the dreams of the next generation, particularly young Black girls like my own daughter. We wanted to create something that celebrates their individuality and creativity while also highlighting the importance of protecting their future. When We All Vote was a natural partner because their mission aligns with our goal to empower mamas, aunties, and grandmothers to take action and secure a future where our daughters can thrive.”
Marty’s journey as a Black woman and mother deeply influenced the purpose of Elle Olivia. She has witnessed the importance of empowering and nurturing the next generation of Black girls through her own experiences, an understanding that fueled her passion to create products and collaborations that go beyond fashion and into advocacy. Elle Olivia isn’t just about style; it’s about driving meaningful change and fostering environments where young Black girls can thrive.
“As a Black woman and a mother, I’ve experienced firsthand how essential it is to create spaces that uplift and celebrate Black girls.” This is exactly what inspired her to launch the HerFuture collaboration. She describes the partnership as “deeply personal because it’s about creating a world where my daughter, and all young Black girls, can dream without limits. It’s about ensuring that their futures are protected, and that they grow up with the same opportunities and rights we’re fighting for today.”
Community empowerment is at the heart of Elle Olivia’s brand mission. Through this collaboration, Marty McDonald hopes to send a message of unity and the power of collective action. “We want our mamas, aunties, and grandmothers to know that they have a voice, and their vote can shape the future for their daughters and the world they inherit,” she said.
By partnering with When We All Vote, Elle Olivia aims to mobilize their community to take action. Marty believes that this collaboration can empower mothers, caregivers, and nurturers to advocate for their daughters and all young girls in their communities. She envisions the next generation of Black girls growing up feeling confident in their ability to make a difference.
As an entrepreneur, Marty McDonald has learned valuable lessons. She emphasizes the importance of representation, authenticity, and community support. Looking forward, she plans to continue combining fashion with social advocacy and using Elle Olivia as a platform to push for change.
Marty’s advice to young Black women who are inspired by her story is simple: “Dream big, stay authentic, and don’t be afraid to take up space.” She believes that everyone has the power to make an impact and shape the future.
RELATED CONTENT: Black Women In Mississippi Hold Power Of The Sister Vote Boot Camps To Combat Voter Suppression
by Jeroslyn JoVonn
September 25, 2024
Famous Amos Honors Late Founder, Gifts 3 Black Entrepreneurs $150K In Capital And Resources
Wally Amos' legacy is honored through the Famous Amos 2024 Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative (IFS) winners.
Famous Amos is honoring the legacy of founder Wally Amos by announcing the winners of the 2024 Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative (IFS).
Now in its fourth year, the annual program offers $150,000 in funding and continuous support to a select group of talented early-stage Black entrepreneurs. The program pays tribute to the late Wally Amos, who became a household name in the 1970s with the launch of Famous Amos cookies.
The announcement of this year’s Ingredients for Success grand prize winners comes one month after Amos passed away at age 88. Ten finalists were chosen from over 2,800 applicants, with the top three emerging as the award recipients. This year’s winner’s winners include:
- Adrienne Gadling, owner and founder of 10 City Spa – a full-service nail salon in Stone Mountain, Georgia, offering top-tier service and a VIP experience.
- Corry Banks, founder of ModBap Modular – a Black-owned electronic music equipment manufacturing company with worldwide distribution.
- Elizabeth Rene, founder of PO’UP! Card Game – a nostalgic party game that celebrates Black excellence through the lens of the Black collegiate experience.
This year’s program winners were chosen for their savvy, potential, and the overall viability of their business models. Much like the inspiration Amos provided aspiring entrepreneurs of his time, the capital given to the winners embodies the ambitious, self-starter spirit the company founder championed.
“The Ingredients for Success program is a way for the Famous Amos brand to pay tribute to our history while championing rising entrepreneurs with much-needed capital and mentorship,” said Rachna Patel, VP of Marketing for Famous Amos. “Ingredients for Success has so far awarded $600,000 to twelve Black-owned businesses across the country and we look forward seeing to all of their future accomplishments.”
IFS winners receive $50,000 and an exclusive membership with the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) to support the growth of their businesses. This award mirrors the early support Wally Amos received when starting his snack company. Mentorship, education, and resources from the USBC are vital elements of the Ingredients for Success program, helping to address the challenges that cause a fifth of U.S. small businesses to close within their first year.
While only three finalists win the grand prize, all participants join the Ingredients for Success Alumni Network, gaining access to a wealth of business resources, training, and engagement opportunities that extend beyond the program’s active cycle. Last year’s winners include Eartha Watch Company by Emir Horton, TCB Drones by Steffanie Rivers, and The Language Arc by Londyn Jackson. All went on to successfully scale their operations, with Horton’s business, in particular, launching a new collection that reached the six-figure mark.
“We’ve seen remarkable accomplishments from our alumni network over the years,” said program judge Steve Canal. “We’re eager to see what Ingredients for Success alumni achieve next.”
RELATED CONTENT: Famous Amos Cookie Founder And Literacy Advocate Wallace Amos Dies At 88
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton
September 25, 2024
The Notorious B.I.G. Limited Edition Street Signs Being Sold In Recognition Of 30th Anniversary Of ‘Ready To Die’
'We are excited to offer a unique opportunity for you to own a piece of NYC history that commemorates his Brooklyn street,' said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez
Brooklyn has found another way to celebrate The Notorious B.I.G.’s debut album, Ready to Die, which debuted on Sept. 13, 1994. The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) announced that it is selling limited-edition street signs for the 30th anniversary of the first album released on Bad Boy Records.
NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez made the announcement on Sept. 23, letting New Yorkers and hip-hop fans know that a limited number of commemorative “Christopher ‘Notorious B.I.G.’ Wallace Way” street signs will be for sale.
“Notorious B.I.G. famously said to ‘Spread love – it’s the Brooklyn way’ – and now, as a tribute to the legacy of an iconic rapper and storyteller, we are excited to offer a unique opportunity for you to own a piece of NYC history that commemorates his Brooklyn street,” said Rodriguez in a written statement. “We hope his fans go check it out – and stay tuned for our next monthly sign drop, which will allow all who love New York City to celebrate the people, places, and special occasions that make it the greatest city in the world.”
If you need this in your collection, you’d have to hurry up, as only 100 signs will be available. The street signs can be purchased online for $75 at the CityStore, the Official Store of the City of New York. Sadly, you can only purchase one since only 100 are being sold. The proceeds will benefit the city’s general fund.
In June 2019, the Christopher “Notorious B.I.G.” Wallace Way street sign was placed at the corner of St. James Place and Fulton Street, where B.I.G. grew up in the Clinton Hill section of Brooklyn.
This news comes after Timberland announced plans to release two colorways, wheat and black, to celebrate the late rapper’s first album. The boots will be available on Sept. 27 for hip-hop fans or Biggie fans who would like to purchase them. They will retail for $210, and the wheat-colored ones will be offered in grade-school sizing for $120.
The larger-than-life recording artist died at 26 on Mar. 26, 1997, weeks before the debut of his second album, Life After Death.
by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors
September 25, 2024
General Motors Opens Access To 17,800 Tesla Superchargers
Tesla announced the step as part of GM’s broader effort to enhance charging options for electric vehicle (EV) drivers.
General Motors has begun offering customers access to more than 17,800 Tesla Superchargers using a GM-approved North American Charging Standard (NACS) DC adapter.
The iconic automaker announced the significant step on Sept. 18 as part of GM’s broader effort to enhance charging options for current and future electric vehicle (EV) drivers, ensuring fast and convenient nationwide charging.
With this expansion, GM EV owners will have access to over 231,800 public Level 2 and DC fast chargers throughout North America. The rollout will first be available to U.S. customers, followed by Canadian availability later this year. The initiative also supports GM’s mission to accelerate public charging infrastructure, focusing on community access and high-traffic travel routes through ongoing charging collaborations.
“GM’s commitment to expanding public charging infrastructure is central to our all-electric future,” said Wade Sheffer, vice president of GM Energy. “By enabling access to even more fast chargers, we are improving the customer experience and making the transition to electric seamless.”
GM electric vehicle (EV) drivers will soon have seamless access to Tesla Superchargers using a GM-approved NACS DC adapter, which can be purchased directly through GM vehicle brand apps. In addition to buying the adapter, the apps will enable users to locate charging stations, initiate a charge, and pay for charging sessions. With the integration of Tesla Superchargers, GM customers will gain access to more than 231,800 public Level 2 and DC fast chargers across the U.S. and Canada, with further expansion expected as GM continues its efforts to grow the EV charging infrastructure.
U.S. customers can purchase the GM-approved NACS DC adapter for $225 USD through GM vehicle brand apps. These apps allow users to find Tesla Superchargers, check availability, initiate charging, and pay for sessions.
GM has partnered with multiple suppliers to produce reliable NACS DC adapters, ensuring compatibility with Tesla Superchargers and other chargers using the NACS standard.
For more details, visit GM’s public charging webpage.