Kristina Karamo, Michigan GOP, Chair, concede, race, 2022

by Sharelle B. McNair

January 10, 2024

Michigan GOP Chair Kristina Karamo Voted Out, But Will She Accept?

They'll have to do a little more than host a meeting...

In a meeting, a group of 45 Michigan Republicans voted to have chairwoman Kristina Karamo removed after many of them called for her resignation.

But Karamo says she isn’t leaving.

Karamo, who didn’t attend the meeting, says she would not recognize the vote, regardless of the outcome, citing the meeting as unofficial and illegal. Close to 90% of the GOP members present at the Jan. 6 meeting voted for her removal, citing financial instability thanks to insufficient fundraising. The state GOP has been plagued with nearly $500,000 in debt as of October 2023 — along with another $110,000 owed to actor Jim Caviezel for a speaking appearance — and inside conflict.

Eight of the state’s 13 congressional district chairs want Karamo to “put an end to the chaos in our party” by stepping down. Committee members are prepared for a legal fight as her refusal to step down could set an unhealthy precedent. “She’s been voted out by the state committee,” state committee member, Bethany Wheeler, said.

“If this was a corporation, that’s the board. They’ve now fired the CEO, basically. She can fight it. But the fact of the matter is she was removed by the state committee and now they are in charge.”

Karamo rose to Republican prominence by spreading election conspiracies following the 2020 election. The former community college instructor was praised by former President Trump during her campaign for secretary of state in 2022, which she lost by 14 points — another result she has yet to concede to. In February 2023, Karamo was elected alongside her co-chair, Malinda Pego, with the goal of leading the party through the 2024 elections.

In under a year, Pego, who will now serve as acting chair until a formal election takes place, signed the petition to have Karamo removed, according to Politico.

The disgraced chair still has the support of some fellow GOP members. State Committeewoman Darlene Doetzel voted in Karamo’s favor and claimed race was the reason for the removal vote. “Let’s call it what it is. It’s all white in there,” Doetzel said. “Let’s not mistake this. You’ve got a Black woman in power, a Christian, and they don’t want that.”

The drama doesn’t arrive at the best time. The party will be hosting a convention on March 2 to prepare 39 of the state’s 55 Republican presidential delegates. The other 16 delegates will be determined based on the results of the Republican primary on Feb. 27.

Agricultural Entrepreneurs Secure Funding On REVOLT’s Bet On Black Series

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

January 10, 2024

Agricultural Entrepreneurs Secure Funding On REVOLT’s Bet On Black Series

Meet the farmers who won the third season of "Bet on Black."

Nestled in the heart of Houston, a vibrant city bustling with diversity and culture, Jeremy Peaches and Ivy Lawrence-Walls have emerged as beacons of innovation and dedication to a very important cause—sustainable agriculture.

Taking home the grand prize of $200,000 during the third season of REVOLT’s Bet On Black series, a groundbreaking entrepreneurial competition in collaboration with Target, Black Farmer Box was created to address food equity in the Black community and access. The business caught the attention of the esteemed panel of judges which included influential figures such as Pinky Cole, Van Lathan, Bun B, and Ray J.

A third-generation farm owner and visionary entrepreneur, Ivy’s roots in agriculture run deep, providing her with a special perspective and a rich understanding of the industry. Jeremy, a passionate agricultural entrepreneur, is deeply ingrained in both community and culture and stands at the forefront of advocating for food accessibility and equity. Their combined dedication to nurturing food-secure ecosystems has positioned the company as a key figure in Houston’s agricultural scene.

As shared by Bun B during the final episode, Black Farmer Box, a grocery box concept aimed at strengthening food security and promoting wellness through the principles of food equity, speaks to the Black experience in America. Devoted to the production of sustainable and community-focused agriculture and recognizing the scarcity of fresh produce in underserved communities, Ivy and Jeremy represent Black farmers giving back to the land, in the name of and for the benefit of the Black community.

During the taping, Ivy shared that “Houston is the fourth-largest city in America. However, it ranks number 2 when it comes to food insecurity. With over 700,000 people who identify as food insecure…the Black Farmer Box is creating an equitable, affordable food system for farmers to serve food desert communities”—in the heart of the community, where people need it most.

Ivy’s business portfolio includes Ivy Leaf Farms as well as Fresh Houwse Grocery, another initiative the pair launched, to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers and extend their shared commitment to providing fresh, locally sourced produce to underserved communities. She also recently opened Kuji Kitchen restaurant, a farm-to-table dining experience that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Houston and provides ready-to-eat food for those who don’t cook.

A defining aspect of the Bet On Black series is its commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs without requiring them to sacrifice equity. This aligns seamlessly with Ivy and Jeremy’s values, allowing them to maintain ownership and control over their ventures while receiving the financial support needed to continue their efforts. The $200,000 grand prize comes as a timely and pivotal boost. The funding will enable the pair to scale up their ventures and to promote food equity and access in Houston and beyond.

As representatives of the Black farming community, Ivy and Jeremy established a brand that truly encompasses the essence of Black farmers working the soil—with a strong community aspect. Their appearance on Bet On Black makes the idea of agriculture accessible to others and reinforces their deep commitment to addressing food security. By raising awareness for accessibility issues in underserved minority communities, they hope their involvement on the show contributes to the evolving narrative around the lack of access to high-quality, nutrient-dense food in Black and brown neighborhoods.

Ivy and Jeremy have served as a source of inspiration, demonstrating that with passion, innovation, and community-focused initiatives, it is possible to create positive change and address pressing societal issues.

As a symbol of a progress and transformation in the agricultural industry, particularly in Black communities, their success represents a shift in the narrative around agriculture and the pivotal role it can play in building resilient and thriving communities. Ivy and Jeremy’s dedication to sustainability, community empowerment, and cultural preservation have set them apart as true trailblazers in shaping the future of Black farming.

Princess Tiana Disney Attraction Gets New Weathervane

by Lauren Nutall

January 10, 2024

Princess Tiana Disney Attraction Gets New Weathervane

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is getting a new weathervane, combining her vibrant New Orleans culture and African roots.

Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort is building a new weathervane in the spirit of Princess Tiana.

Handcrafted by one of Louisiana’s finest blacksmiths, Darryl Reeves, this new addition to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is designed to showcase her cultural importance and strength. Reeves will use a centuries-old technique while giving a nod to African heritage and New Orleans style. “I take metal and do anything I want with it,” he told the Disney Parks Blog. “To have a free hand to design and fabricate the weathervane for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure…that’s an honor.”

Reeves has been a blacksmith for over five decades, creating some of New Orleans’ most well-known structures. Now, he and his apprentice, Karina Roca, are taking on a new project. What sets Tiana’s weathervane apart from other Disney attractions is its cultural spin, which Roca explained in a recent video at Disney Parks.

“The Adinkra symbols in it were very carefully chosen with such a level of love and intention,” she said. “The top symbol is a symbol of endurance. It looks like a fern because fern plants are very resilient. They can grow and thrive in any environment. The symbol below that, it was centered around the divinity of Mother Earth, and it’s a depiction of this old saying ‘as above, so below.’”

Through these different types of symbolism, both Reeves and Roca hope to pay homage to Louisiana’s rich culture and Tiana’s lasting impact. “To think of all of the people that will see this piece really means, for me, to amplify the sort of message and love of our ancestors that have given us these symbols through ironwork so long,” Roca said.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has brought out some of Louisiana’s greatest talents. In October 2023, artist Malaika Favorite was tapped to illustrate a new mural of the Disney Princess. The attraction is scheduled to be unveiled in September this year.

Health in Her HUE, healthcare, Ashlee Wisdom, seed round, 3m

by Stacy Jackson

January 10, 2024

Health In Her HUE Raises $3 Million To Expand Healthcare Platform For Women Of Color

Health in Her HUE aims to improve healthcare outcomes for women of color by connecting them with culturally competent providers.

The women’s health startup Health in Her HUE announced a $3 million seed funding round on Jan. 8, led by venture capital firm Seae Ventures.

Founded in 2018 by CEO Ashlee Wisdom, Health in Her HUE aims to improve healthcare outcomes for women of color by connecting them with culturally competent providers and educational resources tailored to their needs, Tech Crunch reported.

This funding comes at a critical moment, as women of color continue to face barriers to quality care rooted in discrimination. As Wisdom told the site, “Modern medicine is permeated with myths like Black people feel less pain compared to white patients or that Black skin is thicker than white skin.”

By addressing these disparities head-on, Health in Her HUE seeks to rebuild trust between women of color and the healthcare system.

The company plans major expansions to its platform and programs with its new capital. This includes growing its Care Squad service, which offers customized health education classes, and adding new topic areas like fertility, endometriosis, and postpartum care. Health in Her HUE will also launch a video question-and-answer product enabling users to get expert advice on their health questions.

Wisdom said fundraising was “undeniably challenging,” especially amid 2022’s economic downturn. But she stayed focused on both bringing in funding and generating revenue sustainably. Seae Ventures has supported Wisdom’s company since its 2021 pre-seed round.

Additional investors in this oversubscribed round include Johnson & Johnson Impact Ventures, HBCU Founders Fund, Stanford Impact Fund, and Morgan Stanley Inclusive Ventures Labs, Tech Crunch noted. To date, Health in Her HUE has raised $4.2 million.

Going forward, Wisdom hopes to expand the company’s reach and improve customer retention by enhancing the member experience. As she told TechCrunch, “I want to ensure that more women of color and individuals can benefit from the valuable offerings we provide.”

The digital health field is booming, and Health in Her HUE joins the few companies specifically targeting minority women.

Sarah Rector, land, oil, reserve, Oklahoma, wealth

by Stacy Jackson

January 10, 2024

Sarah Rector: Hidden Oil Wealth Made The 11-Year-Old The ‘World’s Richest Negro Girl’ In The Early 1900s

Her family got 160 acres of land in Oklahoma in the early 1900s that hid an oil reserve. It would make her the richest Black girl in America.

When Sarah Rector’s family was granted 160 acres of dry, barren land in Oklahoma in the early 1900s, they assumed the property had little value. But unbeknownst to them, it hid an oil reserve that would make young Sarah the richest Black girl in America.

Under an 1866 treaty, Freedmen children like Rector — born in 1902 to parents who were Black descendants of the Muscogee Creek Nation — were given parcels of native land. Usually the land was considered undesirable, Business Insider reported. But that wasn’t the case for Rector, who received marriage proposals and loan requests despite still being a child when the oil reserve was discovered.

Headlines called her “the world’s richest Negro girl,” with a 1914 Washington Post article describing Rector as “an orphan, crude, Black, and uneducated” now worth millions, according to Business Insider. Like contemporaneous Osage Indians who acquired oil rights, Rector also faced threats. Some Freedmen children possessing oil wealth were even murdered.

Before the reserve was made known, Rector’s father deemed the $30 annual tax on the land not worth paying. As a result, he tried to sell it, unaware of the land’s rich secret. Luckily, the petition to sell was denied. In 1911, Rector’s father leased the land to Standard Oil to help cover costs. Two years later, an oil speculator struck a gusher that produced $300 of oil daily, which is more than $7,000 today.

Almost overnight, 11-year-old Rector gained staggering wealth, attracting curiosity and prejudice.

Under the law, Native and Freedmen minors with substantial assets needed white guardians. Rector’s parents chose their longtime benefactor, T.J. Porter, to fill this role. But when word spread, many suspected Porter was mishandling Rector’s money, prompting famous figures like W.E.B. Du Bois to investigate.

“Is it not possible to have her cared for in a decent manner and by people of her own race, instead of by a member of a race which would deny her and her kind the treatment accorded a good yard dog?” NAACP lawyer James C. Waters Jr. wrote Du Bois in 1914, according to Business Insider.

Ultimately the suspicions weren’t proven to be true. Rector went on to live comfortably, hosting lavish parties with celebrities.

Despite her early hardships, Rector left a legacy of generational wealth and resilience. She died in 1967 at age 65.

Killer Mike, New York, Blue Note Jazz Club, Michael Render, shows,

by Rafael Pena

January 10, 2024

Killer Mike To Perform At Atlanta Hawks Halftime Show During MLK Day

Killer Mike will perform a special tribute during halftime, celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King.

The Atlanta Hawks have announced their plans for the annual MLK Game presented by Chase at the city’s State Farm Arena on Jan. 15. Hip-hop icon and Atlanta native Killer Mike, nominated for three Grammy awards, will perform a special tribute during halftime, celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Fans in attendance will receive Hawks-branded tote bags courtesy of Chase, according to Sports Illustrated.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Atlanta Hawks (@atlhawks)

Hawks players and staff, during warmups, will wear special MLK shooting shirts featuring a quote from Dr. King. The Hawks, donning their Fly City Edition uniforms, will face San Antonio at 3:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at hawks.com/tickets.

Killer Mike expressed his excitement about his upcoming performance, saying, “As an Atlanta native and fellow Morehouse Man who is also a Hawks fan, performing for Atlanta during the MLK celebration is the homecoming dream of a lifetime.”

Known for his roles as musician, advocate, and entrepreneur, Killer Mike’s influence extends beyond his music career. He owns a chain of barbershops, including one at State Farm Arena named the S.W.A.G. Shop.

Melissa Proctor, chief marketing officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena, said, “We are beyond excited to have world-renowned and Atlanta’s own Killer Mike perform as part of this special annual MLK Game presented by Chase.”

Before the game, a Chase-sponsored panel titled “A Transparent Conversation About Homeownership in Atlanta” will discuss increasing homeownership rates among Black Americans in Atlanta. Panelists include Terri M. Lee (COO, Atlanta Housing), Corey Mason (head of Chase home lending for Atlanta), and Latresa McLawhorn Ryan (CEO, Blackbird Strategy Group).

In recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s activism, Olympian Dr. Tommie Smith will be honored during the game. Dr. Smith is known for his iconic gesture at the 1968 Olympics, raising a fist during the national anthem to signify his dedication to civil rights.

The Hawks and Chase will also honor local Black- and woman-owned marketing firm Communiqué USA. Furthermore, the Clark Atlanta University Philharmonic Society will perform during the player introductions and the national anthem.

Wander Franco, Tampa Bay Rays, mother, daughter, relationship, released

by Rafael Pena

January 10, 2024

Wander Franco Released Amid Alleged Relationship With Minor In Dominican Republic

Wander Franco of the Tamp Bay Rays was released from jail in the Dominican Republic after being granted conditional release from the judge.

On Jan. 8, Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays was released from jail in the Dominican Republic after being granted conditional release from the judge presiding over his case, according to ESPN.

Franco, who was accompanied by supporters outside the courthouse, did not speak to reporters after the hearing, though during a bathroom break earlier he did say, “Everything is in God’s hands.” His father, also named Wander Franco, expressed relief, saying, “God is just.”

The ruling provided several options, including release on bond, temporary arrest, restrictions on leaving the country, or requiring periodic appearances as the investigation continues.

Prosecutors claim Franco sent monthly payments of $1,700 to the mother of the girl for seven months and bought her a car to facilitate the relationship. The minor’s 35-year-old mother, who was not named in order to protect her daughter’s privacy, faces similar accusations and was ordered house arrest during the investigation. She left the courtroom without commenting.

The girl had demanded media coverage of her relationship, citing dissatisfaction with her mother handling Franco’s money. Franco, responding in live video, alleged an extortion attempt.

Franco’s lawyers have not issued a detailed statement, but said their client was “doing fine.”

The investigation began in July, based on an anonymous tip that led prosecutors to scrutinize the reported relationship with a minor. The allegations include Franco taking the girl away from her home in December 2022 for a four-month relationship, with the consent of her mother.

Authorities raided the mother’s home in September, seizing $13,700 and $68,500 that had been hidden behind a frame. Another seizure was a guarantee certificate from a local bank for $36,000 related to the alleged exploitation. Franco’s mother, who is said to have sent money to the girl’s mother, has not been charged but was implicated for interference.

A small group of young Dominican players gathered outside the court to support Franco, displaying posters reading “Free Franco” and “We all are Franco.” The MLB’s investigation continues, and Franco remains on administrative leave since August 22, 2023. He signed an 11-year, $182 million contract in 2021, with a $2 million annual salary for 2023 and 2024.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

January 9, 2024

Black Experts Team Up To Offer Comprehensive ChatGPT And Artificial Intelligence Workshop

This exclusive workshop, titled “ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence Overview and Hands-On Workshop,” brings together the wealth of knowledge and practical expertise of Dr. Davies and Rev. Dr. Matthews.

This news was first reported on Blacknews.com.

Every.Black, LLC, a leading provider of cutting-edge technology education, is thrilled to announce an exceptional learning opportunity for professionals and technology enthusiasts seeking to harness the power of ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence(AI).

This immersive overview and hands-on workshop is available because of the collaboration between Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, the Founder of Every.Black, LLC and a highly accomplished computer instructor with over 35 years of experience, and Rev. Dr. Philippe SHOCK Matthews, a distinguished researcher, author, and expert in the field of AI.

This exclusive workshop, titled “ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence Overview and Hands-On Workshop,” brings together the wealth of knowledge and practical expertise of Dr. Davies and Rev. Dr. Matthews. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of ChatGPT and AI, along with the skills to leverage these technologies to drive innovation and growth in research and in business.Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, renowned for his expertise as a computer instructor, will provide an in-depth overview of ChatGPT and its potential applications.

He will deliver practical insights and will cover the following:

1. What is ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence?

2. What is OpenAI?

3. What are some of the limitations and concerns?

4. How will it affect jobs on a global scale?

5. How is it being used in research and business?

6. How is it being used in graphics?

7. How is it being used in music?

8. What are Deep Fakes?

9. What are some software applications that are incorporating ChatGPT and AI?

Rev. Dr. Philippe SHOCK Matthews will lead attendees in interactive hands-on exercises. Through practical application, those in attendance will learn how to leverage ChatGPT effectively and integrate it into effective strategies.

He will cover the following:

1. How to Train ChatGPT – Simple techniques to improve ChatGPT responses.

2. Understanding LLMs – Discover how Large Language Models like GPT-3 work.

3. Understanding NLP – Natural Language Processing unlocks human-computer linguistic capabilities.

4. How to Know the Difference Between Search and AI – Explore contrasting search and AI characteristics.

5. Mastering Prompting Techniques – Prompting unlocks AI capabilities through clear instructions.

6. The Secret Weapon – Prompt Chaining creates coherent, informed AI conversations.

7. Interactive Q&A – Dr. Matthews will show you, in real-time, how to use and master chatGPT to maximize your life and business.

The workshop will take place on Saturday, January 27, 2024, from 10 am EST to 2 pm EST. As seats are limited, interested parties are encouraged to secure their spot early by visiting https://WhatsChatGPT.eventbrite.com for registration and further details.

As pioneers in the field of AI education, Dr. Davies and Rev. Dr. Philippe SHOCK Matthews are committed to empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills required to navigate the rapidly evolving world of technology. This collaboration combines decades of experience and expertise to deliver a truly exceptional learning opportunity.

Reggie Wells, Oprah’s Makeup Artist For 30 Years, Dies At 76

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

January 9, 2024

Reggie Wells, Oprah’s Makeup Artist For 30 Years, Dies At 76

Reggie Wells, a renowned makeup artist to the stars has passed away at the age of 76.

On Monday, January 8, Fox Baltimore reporter Keith Daniels announced the news in a heartfelt Twitter post. The family of the Emmy-winning MUA confirmed Wells died at his home in Baltimore that morning from a long-term illness.

“Emmy Award-winning makeup artist Reggie Wells has died. He was @Oprah’s makeup artist for close to three decades,” Daniels wrote. “According to family, Wells died early Monday morning here in his hometown of Baltimore. “He was so loved, so talented,” said one sister. Wells was 76.”

Emmy Award-winning makeup artist Reggie Wells has died. He was @Oprah’s makeup artist for close to three decades. According to family, Wells died early Monday morning here in his hometown of Baltimore. “He was so loved, so talented,” said one sister. Wells was 76.@FOXBaltimore pic.twitter.com/Cvhs52FEq7
— Keith Daniels Fox45 (@KeithDFox45) January 8, 2024

Wells was best known as Oprah Winfrey’s long-time makeup artist for 30 years. He would frequently appear on her daytime talk show as a guest. Other A-listers Wells serviced included Beyoncé, Halle Berry, and former first lady Michelle Obama.

Passionate about his craft, the Maryland Institute College of Art graduate also enjoyed “beating” the faces of senior members of a retirement community in his hometown, the Baltimore Banner reported.

His talents took him all around the world to countries like South Africa, Australia, and the Middle East. Art was always at the forefront of his career, with Wells getting his start as an art teacher in Baltimore in the mid-1970s before moving to New York City, where he pursued his dream of becoming a makeup artist.

Once in the Big Apple, Wells perfected his craft by working at makeup counters before catching the attention of a fashion editor and going on to work for the likes of Glamour, Life and Harper’s Bazaar magazines. It was during his time at Essence magazine where he worked on models and celebrities that graced more than 100 covers.

His work at Essence is what led him to Oprah and other A-list Black female entertainers. In 1995, Wells won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Makeup and was nominated four additional times after.

Magic Johnson, Michael B. Jordan, Samuel L. Jackson, 42 Day, cruise

by Derek Major

January 9, 2024

Magic Johnson Spent More Than $1.25M Per Week On Vacation With Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Jordan, And Judge Mathis

Magic Johnson spent lavishly during a 42-day luxury cruise vacation with actor Samuel L. Jackson and Michael Jordan last summer.

Former Los Angeles Lakers guard and entrepreneur Magic Johnson went on a 42-day vacation with some star-studded friends, and the bill was staggering.

Essentially Sports reports Magic took actor Samuel L. Jackson, former Charlotte Hornets owner and NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, and Judge Greg Mathis on a luxury yacht cruise, visiting France, Italy, Greece, and Montenegro before ending the journey in Croatia. Magic, who officially became a billionaire in October, spent $7.5 million on the six-week vacation with his friends and their spouses and even documented the trip on Instagram.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Earvin "Magic" Johnson (@magicjohnson)

According to reports, during the vacation, the group participated in day excursions and stayed in San Dominico Palace in Taormina and the Four Seasons Hotel in Sicily. Additionally, the yacht was loaded with three swimming pools, jacuzzis, a fitness room and wellness center, movie theaters, a bar, and even a hair salon. It also had a 29-member crew.

Magic is the fourth professional athlete to reach billionaire status, joining his vacation buddy Jordan, who has been on the list since 2014, golfer Tiger Woods, who just ended his partnership with Nike, and current Los Angeles Laker LeBron James.

Magic is involved in numerous businesses, investing in movie theaters, Starbucks cafes, TGI Friday’s restaurants, TopGolf locations, an esports team, 31 Burger King locations in the southeast, and 13 24-Hour Fitness/Magic Johnson Sport health clubs. The former Laker is also a minority or co-owner of the Los Angeles Sparks WNBA team, Los Angeles Dodgers MLB franchise, LAFC MLS soccer team, and Washington Commanders NFL team.

The Hall of Fame forward played his entire 16-year career with the Lakers, retiring after the 1995-’96 season. The 12-time All-Star has five NBA championships, is a three-time finals MVP, and the three-time season MVP is also a member of the NBA 75th anniversary team.