by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

July 31, 2024

Bond Denied For Young Thug In RICO Trial

Judge Paige Reese Whitaker has denied the motion made by Thug's attorney to allow the Atlanta recording artist to be released on bond.

The new judge in the Young Thug RICO case has ruled on the rapper’s request to be released on bond while on trial.

According to Courthouse News Service, Judge Paige Reese Whitaker has denied the motion made by Young Thug’s attorney, Brian Steel, to allow the Atlanta recording artist to be released on bond. She also rejected Young Thug and his defendants’ motion for a mistrial based on how the former judge of the case, Chief Judge Ural Glanville, handled a secret, ex-parte meeting with prosecutors and a state’s witness.

“I am not going to reconsider any bond issues that have already been considered and ruled upon by another court absent legitimate changed circumstances,” Steele was told on July 30. Whitaker also denied bond for Young Thug’s associates, Deamonte Kendrick and Marquavius Huey.

The trial is now in its 19th month, extending the longest criminal trial in Georgia history.

“So that the record is clear, the basis for the recusal of Judge Glanville was not that he was biased, was not that the ex-parte itself was improper,” Whitaker said. “It was that Judge Glanville engaged in an exposition on the facts in making his rulings on the motion to recuse.”

Whitaker has yet to respond to Young Thug’s request to have lead prosecutors Chief Deputy District Attorney Adriane Love and Deputy District Attorney Simone Hylton disqualified from the trial based on the ex-parte meeting that took place between Judge Glanville, prosecutors, and one of the witnesses, Kenneth Copeland, “Lil Woody.” She said she would not rule on the motion until she could review the ex-parte meeting transcript. After doing so, she can determine if the prosecutors’ actions were coercive.

Young Thug is on trial after the state brought a 65-count indictment in May 2022 containing 191 “overt acts” while participating in alleged gang activities through YSL, known in the streets as “Young Slime Life.” Young Thug states that YSL stands for Young Stoner Records, and his associates are not gang members.

North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, NC, HBCU, shooting, A.I.

by Daniel Johnson

July 31, 2024

North Carolina A&T’s Endowment Hits $200 Million

In 2012, Chancellor Harold L. Martin Sr. launched the Campaign for North Carolina A&T fundraiser and set a goal to raise $85 million.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical College’s endowment recently hit $200 million, ranking just behind Howard, Spelman, and Hampton universities as well as Morehouse College, all private universities.

Chancellor Harold L. Martin Sr., who will retire August 15, made increasing the university’s endowment one of his primary goals when he took the job in 2009. According to a press release from North Carolina A&T, the $200 million mark represents a tenfold increase as well as the largest endorsement for a public HBCU.

The milestones keep coming, the university's endowment has surpassed $200 million, a near tenfold increase since 2009; and as of June 30, it is the largest endowment of any public #HBCU in America. Details: https://t.co/5J6BgpiZIH pic.twitter.com/7uMWJMalOP
— North Carolina A&T (@ncatsuaggies) July 30, 2024

“As our endowment grows, it provides significant income to fund programs and enhance operations at North Carolina A&T,” Martin said. “It also increases our funding flexibility, allows us to plan more effectively for future initiatives, and lends strength to our bond ratings—all important in a highly competitive higher education marketplace.”

In 2009, the university’s endowment was only about $20 million, but it would soon be assisted by an explosion in private donations. In 2012, Martin launched the Campaign for North Carolina A&T fundraiser and set a goal to raise $85 million, but the university had raised over $181 million by the time the campaign concluded in 2020.

According to the press release, this made the campaign the biggest capital campaign ever completed by a public HBCU, boosting its endowment to approximately $140 million. Robert Pompey, the university’s vice chancellor for business and finance, credited the Endowment Committee and investment managers for their outstanding work.

That work is highlighted by the fact that during the pandemic, only North Carolina A&T and Howard University had their endowments increased, and North Carolina A&T’s increased its by almost 5%.

“Our outstanding Endowment Committee and investment managers are effective stewards of our investment portfolio, always ensuring that those funds are managed in ways that bring value to the university,” Pompey said. “Their work is a significant part of the story of our growth.”

Atlanta’s West End Mall’s Renovation To Include Affordable Housing Near Local HBCUs

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 31, 2024

Atlanta’s West End Mall’s Renovation To Include Affordable Housing Near Local HBCUs

West End Mall in Atlanta is set to become a mixed-use building with affordable housing units near the city’s four HBCUs.

The City of Atlanta and Atlanta Urban Development announced the plan to transform the West End along with two other projects. According to 11Alive, all three redevelopments will provide almost 350 affordable housing units.

The mall, named after the city’s west side, will add to the housing market surrounding the Atlanta University Center (AUC). The AUC hosts all four HBCUs in the Georgia capital, including Spelman, Morehouse, Morris Brown College, and Clark Atlanta University.

Those earning up to 80% of the Area’s Median Income (AMI) will be eligible to live in these allocated spaces. Units will be divided based on the renters’ AMI percentage. Specifically, 20% of these homes are reserved for individuals making half this income marker.

The West End redevelopment, spearheaded by BPR companies, will also be the largest of the three projects. The expansive 12-acre property had fallen into decline over the years. However, developers believe the mixed-use space will offer retail and communal sites to revitalize the neighborhood.

The city plans to install a grocery store, fitness center, and shopping boutiques to accompany its 893 housing units. Of this number, 271 will be allocated for affordable rentals, with the rest designated for workforce personnel. Given the surrounding HBCU community, 152 beds will go toward student housing. Additional plans include a medical office and public green space.

HBCUs in the area have also struggled with housing issues in the past, even leading to student protests on campus. While the West End project does not fully resolve the problem, it will provide another venue for students to live.

Furthermore, developers hope to include residents and business owners. They intend to collaborate with the community through town hall meetings and surveys.

“With affordable housing at the forefront, the West End development represents a unique opportunity to revitalize and reinvest in the West End community, creating a more vibrant, connected, and equitable neighborhood,” stated John Majors, CEO of the Atlanta Urban Development Corporation, John Majors.

The city expects to break ground on the project in 2025.

by Stacy Jackson

July 31, 2024

Win With Black Women Raises Over $2.5M Following Latest Zoom Meeting

Win With Black Women reached another milestone, raising $2.5 million, over half of its $4.7 for 47 Campaign goal for Vice President Harris.

In a fight to reclaim democracy, Win With Black Women has raised over $2.5 million as part of its $4.7 for 47 Campaign, reaching another historic milestone supporting Vice President Kamala Harris’s bid for the presidency.

According to a press release, a Zoom meeting on July 28 gathered tens of thousands of attendees, including prominent Black women leaders, activists, and over a dozen Congresswomen, to discuss plans ahead of the Democratic National Convention, which included its state-level organizing strategy. The campaign has seen $2.4 million through the Brown Girls Fundraising Collective, with the latest announcement following the historic July 21 Zoom call, which BLACK ENTERPRISE mentioned gathered over 40,000 Black women and raised over $1 million within three hours.

“Our democracy is at stake, and we continue to rally behind Vice President Kamala Harris so she can take her place as the next President of the United States. The unity demonstrated within a span of just over one week is a clear show of the mountains we can move when we stand together,” said Win With Black Women Founder Jotaka Eaddy.

Sunday’s meeting celebrated the historic accomplishments of the organization as it strives to build a better future for Black women and all Americans. “The growth and momentum of this movement just goes to show what Black women and our allies have known all along: we are a political, social, economic, and spiritual force to be reckoned with -– and we are just getting started,” Eaddy said. On July 26, the organization announced the release of Vice President Harris’ first campaign ad, “We Choose Freedom.”

The 1st Ad is OUT!!! What do you think? #Kamala2024 #OneVoiceOneFight #WinWithBlackWomen https://t.co/xbiDWhMDJS
— Win With Black Women (@WinWithBLKWomen) July 25, 2024

Along with Vice President Harris’ recent appearances at several Black sorority conventions, the collective efforts through Win With Black Women have helped reach more Black women voters. “When we go to polls, we don’t just take ourselves,” Eaddy told CNN. “We take our households, we take our communities, we take our churches, we take our sororities, we take our community groups, we take our brothers, we take our sons. That’s what we have seen and what will continue to see.”

The group has officially launched a text message program to keep Americans in the loop with information and action plans. Join Win With Black Women online to get involved and stay updated.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 31, 2024

Atlanta Shows Out For Kamala Harris In Her Largest Rally Ever

Harris reportedly garnered her largest crowd ever during her July 30 rally in Atlanta.

About 10,000 Atlanta residents gathered at Vice President Kamala Harris’ rally on July 30.

According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the crowd was her largest since embarking on her campaign. Harris traveled to the battleground state of Georgia to encourage its critical electorate, comprised of many Black voters, that Donald Trump’s criminal record shouldn’t be looked past.

The former prosecutor made note of her stark difference from Trump, a newly-convicted felon, in true Atlanta fashion. She quoted Quavo, a former member of the Atlanta hip-hop group Migos, staying Trump does not “walk it like he talks it.” Quavo was also present at the rally and has spoken with Harris before on reducing gun violence.

Harris emphasized Georgia’s importance in this election, proclaiming the “path to the White House runs right through this state.” In regards to immigration, Georgia hosts the fifth-largest number of people in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention, according to Governing. In her speech, Harris declared her intentions to revive a bipartisan bill on illegal border crossings.

“Donald Trump doesn’t care about border security. He only cares about himself,” Harris said. “When I am president, I will work to actually solve the problem.”

The celebration capped off with a performance by Megan Thee Stallion, who fully endorsed the presidential hopeful. Georgia Senators Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff also appeared, encouraging their constituents to race to the pools.

“I want you to think about that,” Warnock said. “Georgia, Donald Trump tried to steal your vote. Kamala Harris is trying to earn your vote.”

Lastly, former gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams rounded out the speakers, inspiring liberal Georgians to turn the state blue again. Joe Biden won the state back in 2020. ”We’re not going back because we dream bigger—and we dream better,” she said.

Harris also made a nod to her uncertain debate against Trump. The assumed Democratic nominee put pressure on Trump not to back out. “Donald, I do hope you’ll reconsider, to meet me on the debate stage,” Harris said. “Because as the saying goes, ‘If you got something to say, say it to my face.’”

by Sharelle Burt

July 31, 2024

Head Of Project 2025 Steps Down Amid Attacks From Democratic Leaders

See ya!

The leader of the Heritage Foundation-led Project 2025, Paul Dans, is stepping down as the Donald Trump campaign deals with ramped-up attacks from Democrats.

The conservative think tank’s president, Kevin Roberts, released a statement on July 30, saying Dans will transition to the “front where the fight remains.”

“When we began Project 2025 in April 2022, we set a timeline for the project to conclude its policy drafting after the two party conventions this year, and we are sticking to that timeline,” Roberts said.

“Paul, who built the project from scratch and bravely led this endeavor over the past two years, will be departing the team and moving up to the front where the fight remains. We are extremely grateful for his and everyone’s work on Project 2025 and dedication to saving America.”

The former chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration is leaving as Democrats have made Project 2025 the sole focus of defeat for their campaign. The controversial 900-page project outlines how to create a conservative administration and a host of individuals who could staff it.

Roberts highlighted how far things have gotten with Project 2025 under Dan’s leadership and boasted about how it has unified dozens of conservative organizations. “Under Paul Dans’ leadership, Project 2025 has completed exactly what it set out to do: bringing together over 110 leading conservative organizations to create a unified conservative vision, motivated to devolve power from the unelected administrative state, and returning it to the people,” he said, according to CBS News.

“This tool was built for any future administration to use.”

Vice President and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, along with other Democrats, have openly condemned the project, stating it will only take the country backward. “Donald Trump intends to take our country backward,” Harris said during a rally in Massachusetts. “Just look at his Project 2025 agenda. By the way, can you believe they put that thing in writing? Nine hundred pages of it.”

However, Trump and his campaign have attempted to distance themselves from the heavy document. Senior adviser Chris LaCivita said during an event at the Republican National Convention that Project 2025 was “a pain in the a‑‑.”

The GOP presidential nominee has called some of the project’s plans “abysmal,” but several experts who contributed to it have served in his administration, including Russ Vought, former leader of the Office of Management and Budget; former acting Defense Secretary Chris Miller; and Ben Carson, who once led the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Shortly after Dan’s departure was announced, Harris’ campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, warned of the project’s policy proposals for abortion, the economy, healthcare, and the environment as an advisory board member said the initiative’s work will likely continue.

“Project 2025 is on the ballot because Donald Trump is on the ballot. This is his agenda, written by his allies, for Donald Trump to inflict on our country,” Chavez Rodriguez said.

“Hiding the 920-page blueprint from the American people doesn’t make it less real — in fact, it should make voters more concerned about what else Trump and his allies are hiding.”

CEO Earl ‘Butch’ Graves Jr. Denounces NABJ Decision To Host Donald Trump

by Earl "Butch" Graves Jr.

July 31, 2024

CEO Earl ‘Butch’ Graves Jr. Denounces NABJ Decision To Host Donald Trump

OUR VOICES MUST BE HEARD

It is with deep regret that I announce my decision to withdraw from our panel, “Black Leadership and Today’s Media Landscape,” at the 2024 National Association of Black Journalists convention in Chicago tomorrow.

The invitation to presidential nominees by NABJ is a great opportunity for the conference constituencies to hear from the respective candidates on their platforms. However, for none of the Black media organizations to be offered the opportunity to interview any candidate is an insult to what NABJ stands for. Moreover, it is indicative of the treatment Black media organizations face in today’s landscape and particularly disheartening that our own NABJ organization would make the decision to exclude Black media organizations from this important discussion.

The Executive Leadership Council (ELC), the sponsor of this panel, has been committed to fostering open dialogue, promoting diversity, and supporting the advancement of Black leaders in various industries, including media. To be clear, it has been the joint decision of the ELC, and all panelists and moderators, to cancel the session and not participate in the conference this year.

We want to emphasize that this decision was not taken lightly, and we regret any inconvenience it may cause those attendees who were looking forward to our panel discussion. We remain dedicated to promoting diverse opinions and supporting the voices of Black leaders in media.

I must emphatically state that I disagree with the decision of the leadership of NABJ to develop a panel featuring one presidential candidate – in this case, Donald Trump – in a session that does not include any Black media organizations and for that matter, Black male journalists. It appears that this panel was developed to accommodate the presumed Republican nominee and not potentially ask any of the difficult questions to garner responses that Black people want, need and deserve to hear. In fact, this decision was, indeed, one of folly and cowardice and not in keeping with the historic tradition of NABJ and Black media as a whole.

I am withdrawing from this session to take a stand. We must be ready and willing to walk in in harm’s way in order to move Black people—and our nation—forward.

I appreciate your understanding and continued support as we navigate and monitor this situation. BLACK ENTERPRISE remains unwavering in our commitment to the advancement of Black leadership and promotion of meaningful dialogue. We look forward to future opportunities to engage with our communities.

— Earl “Butch” Graves Jr.

Wu-Tang Clan, RZA, LL Cool J, Irving Azoff

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

July 31, 2024

RZA Partners With LL Cool J, Irving Azoff To Elevate The Wu-Tang Clan Brand

'This partnership will help us continue to expound and expand the Wu-Tang Clan’s legacy,' RZA said.

The founder and creator of the sound for the group, RZA, has forged a partnership with Iconic Artists Group and Rock the Bells to expand the Wu-Tang Clan name.

According to Billboard, RZA, real name Robert Diggs, is working with esteemed music executive Irving Azor, who owns Iconic Artists Group, and fellow hip-hop recording artist LL COOL J, who heads Rock the Bells, to further add to the Wu-Tang Clan brand.

“As we evolve from ‘Legendary Status’ to ‘Iconic Status,’ it’s only fitting and serendipitous that we join the team at Iconic Artists Group and Rock The Bells,” RZA said in a written statement. “This partnership will help us continue to expound and expand the Wu-Tang Clan’s legacy.”

The partnership will help elevate the music, brand, philosophy, and lifestyle of the Staten Island musical group, which consists of rappers RZA, Method Man, Cappadonna, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, Raekwon the Chef, U-God, GZA, Masta Killa and deceased member, Ol’ Dirty Bastard.

“The Wu-Tang Clan’s brand and music have been cornerstones of hip-hop culture,” LL COOL J said. “Our partnership with Iconic Artists Group will enable us to leverage Rock The Bells’ multi-faceted platform—encompassing radio, e-commerce, licensing, content, and live events—to unite and engage fans with this iconic brand. Together, we’ll guarantee that the Wu-Tang Clan’s legacy and timeless hip-hop remain powerful forces for generations to come.”

The two entities will assist in creating more opportunities for the Wu-Tang Clan through its music. This entails the brand’s involvement in film, television, merchandise, and brand partnerships. The partnership will also have an online destination for all things Wu-Tang Clan.

“The Wu-Tang Clan is much more than a music group; they’re a cultural phenomenon,” said Jimmy Edwards, president of Iconic. “We can’t wait to bring our unique strengths together to create something truly unparalleled.”

RZA already has a working relationship with Rock the Bells as he hosts #WuWednesdays on SiriusXM channel 43.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

July 31, 2024

Manage Your Emotions As Election Season Gets Intense

While election anxiety is high, it is possible to manage our emotions and maintain our working relationships with these tips

Originally Published Oct. 27, 2020.

We all have a range of emotions around the upcoming U.S. presidential election. While election anxiety is high for many people, maintaining a respectful working environment for all is important for our working relationships. Here are a few ways to help manage your emotions and maintain peace this election season.

Election Anxiety: Maintaining working relationships

See the humanity in the other person.

This is really hard when you don’t believe that others see the humanity in you. Though challenging, it is necessary to maintain a working relationship.

Focus on commonalities.

We all want the same thing in life. Whether it’s a good education for our children, the ability to care for aging parents, or living in a safe environment, we all share basic common needs and desires.

Focus on the work.

When it comes to politics, opinions generally do not change, and people don’t switch sides after a conversation about why their candidate is the right one. For the good of your working relationship, focus on the actual task at hand and what is needed to successfully accomplish it. Save political conversations for personal time.

Election Anxiety: Managing your emotions

Acknowledge your emotions and reactions.

Ignoring or numbing emotions doesn’t make them disappear. It actually causes more stress for you, your body, and your relationships. Take the time to check in with yourself and your body to understand how you are feeling. Are you anxious, sad, fearful, excited, curious?

Express your emotions.

Write in a journal, talk to a friend, or join a group to share your emotions and thoughts about the upcoming election.

Set boundaries.

Talk of the election is everywhere and can be overwhelming. Consider setting time limits on how much media and social media you consume daily. Give yourself permission not to engage in conversations with friends, family, and co-workers about the upcoming election.

absenteeism,school, students, college, College Scholarships, Devon Horton, Devon Horton

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

July 31, 2024

Save Money On Back-To-School Items With These 5 Tips

For parents, back-to-school shopping doesn't have to be painful. In fact, it can be rather simple with the stroke of a few keys.

Originally Published Aug. 26, 2009.

There’s something about back to school that stirs a sense of uneasiness and excitement among most students and parents. Perhaps it’s the hint of fall visible in the soon-to-be withering leaves, or maybe it’s the oversized Crayola box adorned with the large sale sign hanging in the window of almost every store in the mall.

Either way, parents and students may be readying for the upcoming school year—for different reasons, of course. For parents, back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to be painful. In fact, it can be rather simple with the stroke of a few keys. Focus your shopping online, says Michelle Madhok, online shopping expert and mom-friendly blogger who aggregates ultra-cheap steals and deals.

“Start doing some research online, see where you can get the best prices, and figure out what you need,” she adds. So, where should you start online? Check out these tips.

Optimize your search.

Specialty search engines can shave hours off your shopping. Instead of wading through tons of websites and posts about products you don’t need, utilize search engines that have already narrowed the search for you. One, Pronto.com, specializes in consumer goods, but the site is perfect for finding the best prices on kidswear, says Madhok. “You can sign up for an e-mail to be sent to you when your favorite bands go on sale, too,” she adds.

Get something back.

If you’re going to spend the dough, why not earn some of the money back? Check with your bank or credit card company to find out whether they offer incentives for your purchases. For example, Mypoints.com offers points back on your purchases, which are redeemable for gift cards to Target and Amazon, among a slew of other retailers. Sign-up is free.

Find retailer-specific coupons.

Coupons can be a hassle to find if you’re ready to shop and you know exactly what you want. To find coupons for exactly what you need, check out RetailMeNot.com, a personal favorite of Madhok. “If you put in the name of a retailer, the site comes up with coupons and feedback on if the coupons work.” The site generates printable and e-coupons, and you can search by product.

Become a follower.

You may want to reconsider if you’ve been resisting the pressure to join Facebook or X, formerly known as Twitter. One of my favorite X pastimes is following JetBlue and South West Airlines, and it’s not because of all the witty tweets. The airlines post great deals on flights and sometimes promote contests for free flights. Many companies use social media to draw in customers with deals and specials. Become a Facebook “fan of your favorite retailers or “follow said retailer’s X account for the latest deals and special coupons.

Don’t rush.

For most students, returning to school is all about donning the trendiest fashions and the latest smartphone. But instead of bulk shopping, Madhok recommends piecemeal purchasing.

“Wait to buy everything, she says. “Things start to go on sale as the season progresses, and it will give your child time to find out what [he or she] really wants. Spread the shopping out over weeks or months to cut down on splurging,” Madhok adds.