by Jeroslyn JoVonn

September 14, 2023

Deion Sanders Ranks His 5 Children From Favorite To Not-So Favorite In Viral Post

Deion Sanders, who has played professional sports most of his life, is showing how he takes the competition beyond the football field by ranking his own children!

The football legend went viral over the week with a since-deleted post celebrating his “Favorite Son” Deion Sanders Jr. for his birthday.

“Happy Birthday to My Favorite Son @deionsandersjr ! I’m so proud of you!” he wrote in the caption captured by ESPN.

After noting how his son asks for money “from time to time,” he praised his son’s “productivity” and his excellence in building social media audiences for himself, his siblings, and even the teams his father coaches.

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“You have blown up my social, JSU’s social, your siblings’ social, and you’re excellent at what you do,” Sanders continued. “Keep on striving for your dreams and to understand your purpose in life.”

While the post appeared wholesome in tone, Sanders closed his caption by noting Jr.’s number-one spot on his ranking for his five children,

“Your the #1 son and #1 on the kids rankings currently.”

The University of Colorado Boulder head coach proceeded to share his rankings for his children with Deion Jr. in first, his daughter Shelomi ranking second, his son Shedeur ranking third ahead of his other daughter Deiondra in fourth, and his son Shilo in last place.

Many blasted Sanders for seemingly ranking his children on a public forum. But there were some who accused Deion Jr. of posting the rankings since he runs his dad’s social media.

“So no one can figure out that the son that handles his socials [sic] probably did this as a prank to his dad? Ranking himself as #1 kid? Really people,” one user wrote.

But it’s not the first time Sanders has labeled one of his sons as his “favorite.” In April, he shared a celebratory post about Shilo’s graduation, calling him the “favorite son.”

“So proud of my favorite son for graduating today! The best is yet to come son. I’m so so so Proud of you! Now u know what time it is,” Sanders wrote.

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Sanders has five children from his first two marriages, including Deiondra and Deion Jr. with his first wife Carolyn Chambers, and Shilo, Shedeur, and Shelomi from his second marriage to Pilar Sanders. Sanders is currently married to producer Tracy Edmonds.

Black American Music Awards, Alicia Keys, ICE Medal of Honor, Jimmy Jam, Terry Louis

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

September 14, 2023

Black American Music Association To Honor Alicia Keys, Jimmy Jam And Terry Lewis In Morehouse Ceremony

The musical contributions of Alicia Keys, Grandmaster Flash, and renowned producer/songwriters Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis will be celebrated at the inaugural ICE Medal of Honor next month.

Organized by The Black American Music Association, the black-tie event will take place at the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center inside Atlanta’s Morehouse College on Sunday, Oct. 15, Billboard reports. Keys will receive the Ella Fitzgerald Gold Standard Award; Grandmaster Flash will take home the Transformative Award; and Jam and Lewis will receive the Creative Impact Award.

Other honorees include the philanthropist and founder of the technology software private equity firm Vista Equity Partners, Robert F. Smith, who will receive the Ray Charles/Harry Belafonte Patron of Arts Award;
businesswoman and producer Suzanne de Passe, who will receive the trailblazer award that’s named in her honor; and Jeff Harleston, general counsel, executive vice president of business and legal affairs of Universal Music Group, who will receive the Pace/Harrell Executive Leadership Award.

Additionally, the late Michael Jackson will receive the Michael Jackson ICON Award.

“We are thrilled to launch the ICE Medal of Honor and to recognize these outstanding individuals who have made an enduring mark on the world through their art and creativity,” Michael Mauldin, The Black American Music Association’s founder, said.

“This celebration is a testament to the power of Black American music in shaping culture and inspiring generations.”

The Black American Music Association is a n-profit 501(c)(6) trade association founded in 2017 by Mauldin and Demmette Guidry to preserve, protect, and promote the legacy and future of Black American music.

Between Alicia Keys’ 15 Grammys, Jam and Lewis’ five, and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five’s history-making success in hip-hop, the honorees are more than deserving of the accolades. Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five was the first hip-hop group inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and received a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy in 2021.

de Passe’s work with Motown Productions includes discovering The Jackson 5 and Commodores and winning Emmys for her production of Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever (1983) and Motown Returns to the Apollo (1985).

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

September 14, 2023

Juicy J Spills His Life Story In New Memoir, ‘Chronicles Of The Juice Man’

With more than 30 years of history-making success in hip-hop, Three 6 Mafia co-founder Juicy J is finally ready to share his story in a new memoir.

Juicy J, born Jordan Michael Houston III in North Memphis, Tennessee, is letting it all out in his first book, Chronicles of the Juice Man: A Memoir, chronicling his upbringing in Memphis and how the city shaped his career.

The new book, which hit shelves on Sept. 5, relives Juicy’s inception into the music scene in 1991 as part of Three 6 Mafia, who became the first hip-hop group to win an Academy Award for their single “It’s Hard out Here for a Pimp” from the film Hustle & Flow, to finding solo success during the group’s brief disbandment with singles like “Bandz a Make Her Dance” and his Grammy-nominated feature on Katy Perry’s single “Dark Horse.”

“I started writing it back when my mom first got sick with cancer, which was a very, very difficult situation at the time and I talk about it in the book,” he told BET.

“But I felt like it was finally the right time. I feel like I’ve done everything in music and it’s just time to share my story and even try to educate people about real-life situations that I was going through.”

Meant to inspire readers beyond just the music, Juicy J gets candid about his mental health struggles throughout the memoir in hopes of motivating others to do their own soul-searching ahead of turning dreams into reality.

“This book is very inspirational, and it’s not just for people in the music business. It’s for people outside the music business because it’s about real-life stories and situations. You can learn a lot from this book, man,” Juicy explained.

“I talk a lot about mental health and spirituality because it’s important in this business and in life.”

“For me, it wasn’t just that I made a lot of money or achieved success, but I got my mind right, and that’s the thing,” he added. “I got peace of mind. I want people to know that as they reach for their goals and chase their dreams, you have to have the mind right.”

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

September 14, 2023

Major Newspaper Chain Hiring Beyoncé And Taylor Swift Reporters

The love for Beyoncé and Taylor Swift just got more real now that Bey Hivers and Swifties can secure a job covering the singers.

This week, newspaper chain Gannett, which owns over 200 daily papers nationwide, put out a job advertisement seeking “modern storytellers” who can keep readers up-to-date on the latest news surrounding the two superstars, the Associated Press reports.

The two new hires will lend their pop star reporting to USA Today and The Tennessean.

Beyoncé reporters will be tasked with relaying information on the “Cuff It” singer’s effect on society and the industries in which she operates. In contrast, Swift reporters will need to “identify why the pop star’s influence only expands, what her fanbase stands for in pop culture, and the effect she has across the music and business worlds,” according to Gannett’s job description.

“I put our sophisticated coverage up against anybody,” Michael Anastasi, The Tennessean’s editor and Gannett’s vice president for local news said of the paper’s three-person music team.

While Anatasi said the newspaper chain isn’t “hiring a Taylor Swift reporter at the expense of other reporters,” there are some journalists who feel the celebrity-driven roles seemingly shun the investment into local journalism at a company known for its local daily beats.

“At a time when so much serious news and local reporting is being cut, it’s a decision to raise some questions about,” Rick Edmonds an expert at Poynter Institute said of the new positions.

Music writer Jeremy Gordon also criticized the new roles saying it “doesn’t feel great to see ‘full-time stan’ go out as an actual journalism job.” But when it comes to the Beyoncé reporter specifically, Omise’eke Tinsley, academic and author of Beyoncé in Formation: Remixing Black Feminism, believes the gig will make space for more positive stories about Black women.

Lawsuit Accuses Beverly Hills Cops Of Racially Profiling Thousands Of Black Motorists

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

September 14, 2023

Lawsuit Accuses Beverly Hills Cops Of Racially Profiling Thousands Of Black Motorists

A lawsuit has been filed in Beverly Hills accusing police officers of profiling nearly 11,000 Black people during traffic stops in a two-year period, according to the Associated Press.

Attorney Benjamin Crump said at a press conference earlier this week that out of 1,088 Black people pulled over by police, only two were convicted of crimes. The suit was filed representing most of the Black drivers who were pulled over while driving in the wealthy city between August 2019 and August 2021.

The number of Black people who make up the population of Beverly Hills is 1.5% yet about a third of all of the arrests made during that time period included Black drivers. “It wasn’t to deter crime. It was to send a message to Black people that we don’t want your kind around here,” Crump said. “That is racial profiling 101!”

Added attorney Bradley Gage, “In two years, 1,088 Black people arrested, only two convictions,” Gage told reporters. “There’s only one explanation for that. They want to drive Black people out of the city.”

The lawsuit is seeking $500 million in damages for the motorists.

City of Beverly Hills denies all claims

“The statistics presented referencing the number of convictions is a mischaracterization of the evidence in this case,” it said in a statement. “In addition, the 1,088 arrests referenced include people cited and released, not just custodial arrests.”

“The City of Beverly Hills is an international destination that always welcomes visitors from across the country and around the world,” the city added. “The role of the Beverly Hills Police Department is to enforce the law, regardless of race.”

Complainant Shepherd York, a law clerk and one of the motorists pulled over in the city, was stopped for having expired license plates while he was driving to work. “I spent three days in jail,” York said at the news conference. “Humiliated, scared, sad.”

He said his vehicle was searched and impounded, yet he was never convicted of a crime.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 14, 2023

Atlanta Officials Refuse To Verify Signatures For Stop Cop City Petition

The efforts of the Stop Cop City movement are facing yet another setback. The coalition in charge of garnering signatures to put the cop training facility’s construction to a vote claims that Atlanta officials are refusing to verify that they have enough.

The Vote to Stop Cop City Coalition Georgia claims it has gathered over 116,000 signatures, well over the roughly 58,000 required to secure an Atlanta citizens vote on the matter, NBC News reports. However, a stipulation regarding the deadline to garner them has the movement at a standstill.

According to the officials, the advocacy group missed the Aug. 21 deadline to turn the lists in. Activists said the deadline was actually extended to September, but a current pause on the official date extension by an appellate court judge has the legal change in question.

“This is yet another disgraceful push by the city to stonewall democracy, showing that Mayor (Andre) Dickens and the City of Atlanta fear the power of their constituents,” the coalition said in a statement. “The City was notified on Thursday of our intention to submit, yet was too cowardly to release any response, or even respond to our email, until after we arrived.”

This news comes after the RICO indictment of 61 advocates involved in the Stop Cop City protests. In response, faith leaders from a local branch of the Universalist Unitarian Church chained themselves to a bulldozer in solidarity with the indicted. They were also taken into custody, with possible charges to follow.

Regarding the petition, the coalition remains determined to be heard. The group’s aim is to ensure citizens in Atlanta have a say on the facility being constructed in a predominately Black neighborhood as well as its environmental ramifications.

Officials assert they won’t initiate the verification process until a determination is reached regarding the legality of the deadline extension. An attorney representing the state contends that it does not possess the “discretion” to proceed until this matter is resolved.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 14, 2023

In Honor Of Ashanti’s New Nelly Purse, Here Are 6 Black-Owned Handbags You Need To Own

While rocking an unconventional purse to the 2023 VMAs, Ashanti revealed the cute details on a love story decades in the making.

The singer made headlines when she donned a green clutch with an adorable pic of her then and now- beau Nelly front and center. Unabashed about her reignited love, Ashanti told People on the red carpet that the two are in a “great space” and “having a lot of fun” in their relationship.

As the announcement became a trending topic, snippets of her full look featuring the green clutch was shared by multiple news outlets, with E! News reporting where she got the photo.

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“This is the picture we took 20 years ago at the VMAs in ’03,” shared the Grammy winner.

As Ashanti confirmed the rumored relationship, BLACK ENTERPRISE has a different kind of scoop for those who love ingenuity and want to further indulge in fashions that signify Black love.

With these Black-owned handbags, featuring the works of the innovative Ciriaco and expansive Tote&Carry, these up-and-coming Black designers will be your new partner in crime.

1.) Ciriaco

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With its popular Ashley minimalist Baguette design slowly emerging as a trendy new “it” bag, you can’t go wrong supporting this Atlanta native’s brand that brings asymmetrical silhouettes to the forefront.

2.) Anima Iris

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Let’s face it, if Beyoncé approved it, we’re interested. This brand’s products are all handmade in Africa, specifically by experts in Dakar, Senegal. With craftsmanship at this level, who wouldn’t want to splurge?

3.) Tote&Carry

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Deemed “where fashion and travel meet,” those who want to rock a complete set of Black-owned travel bags should look no further. Your purse, duffle bag, and carry-on luggage matching? It’s the new standard in Black luxury.

4.) VNM by Vixen

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This brand is for the people whose bags are solely for brunch money. Pronounced “ven-uhm,” its collection of signature “The Brunch” mini-bags are a necessity for any gathering with the girls.

5.) Monazeni

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This “unique luxury” brand hosts a wide assortment of bag designs to cater to every mood, from business to block party. Their fur “Anya” bags are guaranteed to be your go-to plus-one for any event.

6.) KUA

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Who needs a birkin bag when you can rock KUA’s perfectly constructed “Heritage” handbag by Ghanaian designer Ruby Buah? KUA, which stands for” keeping us authentic,” also keeps the girlies purse game quite elevated.

by Jaimee Ratliff

September 14, 2023

Hip-Hop Legends Common And MC Lyte Join ‘The Wiz’ Revival as Co-Producers

Academy Award winner Common and rap pioneer MC Lyte will serve as co-producers the upcoming stage revival of The Wiz.

According to Broadway News, the production will tour the U.S. beginning September 23 before heading to the bright lights of Broadway in 2024. Common and MC Lyte join producers Kandi Burruss, Todd Tucker, Brian Anthony Moreland, and Ambassador Theatre Group in bringing the beloved story back to its original stomping grounds.

“I am so blessed to be part of this production of The Wiz” Common said.

“Theater has always affected me in a way that reaches my soul and spirit, in some measure because I didn’t realize as a kid that I could dream big enough to be part of it,” he added. “This is a true dream come true as one of my favorite movies growing up was The Wiz. My only hope is that this production can inspire someone else to chase their dreams and create their art.”

The Wiz debuted on Broadway on January 5, 1975, and ultimately won seven Tony awards, including Best Musical. For four years, the production—led by Stephanie Mills‘ dynamic performance as Dorothy—captivated audiences before heading to the silver screen.

“It is my greatest pleasure to have the opportunity to serve as an investor in this historic production of The Wiz,” MC Lyte said. “Having grown up watching all of the Broadway musicals in the ’70s and ’80s, The Wiz has always been a favorite of mine. Now, as a co-producer, I’m honored to be able to partner behind the scenes and with communities nationwide to help make this production an artistic and memorable treasure for future generations.”

According to Playbill, the revival will feature Deborah Cox as Glinda and Wayne Brady in the title role on certain tour stops and when the show hits Broadway. Former late- night host Amber Ruffin will also lend a hand on new material.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

September 14, 2023

Attorneys for Jussie Smollett Look To Overturn Conviction

Attorneys for Empire cast memberJussie Smollett appeared at an Illinois appellate court Sept. 12 to begin arguments to have the actor’s conviction thrown out.

Smollett was convicted on charges of faking a racist, homophobic attack in 2019 and lying about it to Chicago police. Initially, no charges were filed against the actor, but lawyers say charges were brought on by outside factors.

“Public outrage against the defendant cannot overrule the rule of law,” attorney Nenye Uche stated to a panel of three judges.

In a 76-word appeal submitted to the panel, Smollett’s lawyers state the 2021 trial violated their client’s Fifth Amendment right against double jeopardy. Before the trial took place, Smollett had already performed community service and forfeited a $10,000 bond. That was part of the 2019 deal he had with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office to drop the initial charges. By having the second trial, according to the appeal, he was punished twice for the same crime.

The attorneys believe the office of prosecutor Kim Foxx used proper discretion when they dropped the original charges four years ago.

“If Mr. Smollett’s convictions are allowed to stand, this case will set a dangerous precedent by giving prosecutors a second bite at the apple any time there is dissatisfaction with another prosecutor’s exercise of discretion,” the appeal read.

Sean Wieber, who represents the special prosecutor, told the panel the way Smollet’s case was handled left open the possibility of the actor being recharged without violating protections against double jeopardy.

It was argued that if a defendant hasn’t been tried and has never pleaded guilty, it’s typically not double jeopardy if the defendant is indicted a second time on the same charges.

A ruling is expected to take several weeks.

In 2022, Smollet was sentenced to 30 months of felony probation with 150 days served in Cook County Jail. He was also ordered to pay $120,106 in restitution to the City of Chicago and a $25,000 fine. If the judge rules in favor of the state, Smollet will have to finish the sentence, minus the six days he spent in jail before he was released pending the result of this appeal.

City Of Baltimore To Auction Vacant Homes

by Daniel Johnson

September 14, 2023

City Of Baltimore To Auction Vacant Homes

The Baltimore City Housing Authority and the Ashland Auction Group are partnering to auction off 30 of the city’s vacant homes. Properties for sale will include single family dwellings as well as row homes with multiple family units, CBS Baltimore reports.

According to city officials, those looking to bid on the homes will need to pre-register, and the winning bidder will be required to make an initial deposit which will be specified in the terms of the purchase agreement. Officials also outlined that multiple bids will be allowed courtesy of a Good Faith Authorization Charge, and this charge is separate from the winning bid, it is merely a hold placed on a bidder’s account.

The fee to participate in the auction will be $2,000 and the vacant homes are from across the city, according to the Ashland Auction Group’s website.

Janet Abrahams, the president and CEO of the Housing Authority of Baltimore City, told CBS Baltimore, “The properties selected for auction are located within vibrant neighborhoods known for their sense of community and public amenities. We want individuals to find a property they can convert into a home and join a welcoming community that suits their lifestyle.”

Baltimore has 14,000 vacant homes, which is the fewest number it has had in decades and that number has decreased by 700 over the last year. After a massive fire in January 2022 that claimed the lives of three firefighters, the city launched several initiatives to get the number of vacant lots reduced. The city made a $15 million investment in Clean Corps aimed at fighting its empty home crisis as well as a Tax Sale Exemption program and an Environmental Design pilot program to beautify blighted spaces in the city.

Residents like Deborah Ruffin signaled their approval of the city’s efforts, telling CBS Baltimore, “There’s been a lot of vacants in the city for a very long time, it’s about time they’re doing something.”