• Diversity, Equality, Inclusion

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

January 17, 2024

Disney Dreamers Academy Class Of 2024 Unveiled On MLK Day

The Disney Dreamers Academy has revealed its class of 2024 for its esteemed mentorship program.

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Disney has revealed its 100-student class for its 2024 Dreamers Academy. The entertainment behemoth shared its latest cohort at the Walt Disney World Resort on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. 

The Dreamers Academy’s 17th class comprises innovative high schoolers across the country who were selected to attend the coveted mentorship program centered on their academic and professional development. The teens, who primarily derive from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented communities, will gain access to career insights and readiness as they venture into higher learning. 

Continuing the celebration, some of the students were featured on ABC’s “Good Morning America.” All serve their respective communities through service endeavors and special activities.

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Tracey Powell, Executive Champion at Disney Dreamers Academy, released a statement about what the incoming class will gain from this “experience of a lifetime.” 

“We eagerly anticipate the arrival of another exceptional group of high schoolers from all corners of the country for our 17th year,” expressed Powell, who is also Senior Vice President of Consumer Insight, Measurement & Analytics. “These future leaders are poised to embark on a transformative journey, gaining an experience of a lifetime that will propel them towards achieving their dreams.” 

The selected attendees will participate in Walt Disney World’s four-day program: seminars and workshops with business experts, Disney executives, and celebrities, all on hand to help empower this next generation of leaders.

The students will also explore the magic at the vast amusement park and resort on an all-expense-paid trip with their parent or guardian. 

Established in 2008, the Disney Dreamers Academy has supported and uplifted more than 1,600 high schoolers from all backgrounds nationwide, inspiring them to bring their dreams into reality. A complete list of this year’s selected members can be viewed on the Disney Dreamers Academy website. 

• Media

by Derek Major

January 17, 2024

Giannis Antetokounmpo And His Brothers Start Media Production And Brand Strategy Company

Giannis Antetokounmpo has achieved numerous accolades during his NBA career.

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Milwaukee Bucks superstar and two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo has founded a production and brand strategy company with his brothers.

Improbable Media was co-founded by Antetokounmpo, his brothers Thanasis (who also plays on the Bucks), Kostas, and Alex, and former Chicago Bulls guard and ESPN basketball analyst Jay Williams.

Jonathan Stern, who previously held roles with Red Bull Media House and Bunim/Murray Productions, will serve as Improbable Media’s chief executive officer.

“Improbable Media is not just another media company,” the company’s website reads.

“It’s an embodiment of our founders’ ethos and enduring spirit. We are driven to create groundbreaking content that sparks conversations, champions the underdog, and fosters a deep commitment to self, family and community. We utilize storytelling, creativity, and strategic expertise to help talent and brands grow their own ecosystems, nurture their businesses and deepen third party partnerships and relationships.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo has achieved numerous accolades during his NBA career. The 10-year veteran is a seven-time All-Star and All-NBA player and a five-time All-Defense member. He also won the 2019-’20 Defensive Player of the Year and was the 2021 NBA Finals MVP. This season, the 6 ’11 forward is averaging 31.2 points per game and 11.4 rebounds per game in 39 games.

Improbable Media is set to release its first project, Giannis: The Marvelous Journey Feb. 19 on Prime Video. The full-length documentary chronicles Antetokounmpo’s childhood in Greece and his rise to NBA stardom with the Bucks, which has been chronicled in a best-selling biography (Mirin Fader’s Giannis) and a feature film (2022’s Rise).

The Antetokounmpos’ production company will also release The Flagmakers, a National Geographic documentary about workers at the Oak Creek, Wisconsin-based Elder Flag which produces more than one million American flags a year.

Other productions from Improbable Media include Protergia: Love Interrupted.

RELATED CONTENT: Dwyane Wade Shoots For Podcast Stardom With iHeart’s ‘The Why,’ Featuring NBA Legends And A-List Guests

• Events

by Stacy Jackson

January 17, 2024

Florida Leaders Speak Out About Upholding Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream

Leon County leaders addressed education and the need to continue to fight for civil rights during a Martin Luther King commemoration ceremony.

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A recent gathering at the Leon County Courthouse commemorated Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and speakers emphasized the continued need to fight for civil rights amid concerning trends in Florida.

Leaders in attendance included Leon County School Board member Darryl Jones, according to WSFU News. Given the Sunshine State’s oppressive past, which PBS reported includes having the highest per capita rate of lynching from 1900 to 1930, Jones underscored the importance of teaching accurate Black history.

“We don’t care what mediocre minds say – we’re going to teach African American history in Leon County schools,” Jones stated. His remarks come as Florida implements controversial changes to history curriculum, even reportedly perpetuating falsehoods like the idea that some slaves benefited from slavery. Jones criticizes how new laws discourage open conversations about diversity and equity. He called on citizens to take action, saying, “I need you to decide the role you’ll play in saving children from weaponized bigotry.”

Over the last two years, Florida has passed restrictive laws dictating how history is taught, sparking intense debates. As previously covered by BLACK ENTERPRISE, several debates erupted after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis passed a mandate on July 26, 2023, on how lessons about Black history should be taught. And others in the Republican party disagreed with the mandate. “There is no silver lining in slavery,” Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina said at the time.

Still, with current rising tensions, teaching youth about Florida’s role in inequality and lynching is critical. WSFU reported that Jones summarized the call to action: “It is important that we not stand idly by as they undermine children.”

Fourth-grader Skyy Proud also spoke out at the Leon County Courthouse event about learning from America’s civil rights past. She noted an overlooked tie between Dr. King and Florida, sharing, “Dr. King spent time in Florida with local civil rights icons… Reverend CK Steele and family…Reverend Daniel Speed…Laura Dixie and her husband, Samuel Dixie, Sr.” and other members of Florida’s local Inter-Civic Council.

RELATED CONTENT: National Park Service Seeks Public Participation In Safeguarding MLK Home In Atlanta

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

January 17, 2024

Last Year A Record Number Of Firearms Were Discovered At Airport Security Checkpoints

When a firearm is discovered at a security checkpoint, agents contact local law enforcement, and the gun and the passenger are removed.

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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) released an alarming figure regarding firearms being taken to U.S. airports in 2023.

Last year, TSA discovered a total of 6,737 firearms at airport security checkpoints. The weapons were screened before passengers were allowed in airports and aboard flights. The agency also stated that out of the firearms recovered at the checkpoints, 93% of them were loaded with ammunition. Last year’s total number of weapons found set a record that surpassed the previous year’s high of 6,542 firearms stopped at checkpoints.

“We are still seeing far too many firearms at TSA checkpoints, and what’s particularly concerning is the amount of them loaded, presenting an unnecessary risk to everyone at the TSA checkpoint,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a written statement. “Firearms and ammunition are strictly prohibited in carry-on baggage. Passengers are only allowed to travel with an unloaded firearm if they pack it properly in a locked, hard-sided case in their checked baggage and first declare it to the airline at the check-in counter.”

The data collected by the agency reveals that 6,737 firearms were discovered across 265 airports. The top 10 airports with the most firearms recovered were:

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport – 451 seizures
2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport – 378
3. Intercontinental Airport of Houston – 311
4. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport – 235
5. Nashville International Airport – 188
6. Denver International Airport – 178
7. Orlando International Airport – 164
8. Tampa International Airport – 144
9. Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport – 135
10. Dallas Love Field – 125

When a firearm is discovered at a security checkpoint, agents contact local law enforcement, and the gun and the passenger are removed. Depending on the jurisdiction, the passenger may be arrested and cited by local authorities. TSA does institute penalties on passengers, which may include a fine of up to approximately $15,000, and TSA PreCheck® eligibility being revoked for at least five years. They may also conduct enhanced screening to ensure no other threats are present.

by Rafael Pena

January 17, 2024

5 Climate-Friendly Purchases for Everyday Living

As the impact of individual actions on climate change becomes increasingly evident, sustainability experts highlight simple yet effective ways to reduce our carbon footprint.

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As the impact of individual actions on climate change becomes increasingly evident, sustainability experts highlight simple ways to reduce our carbon footprint. By incorporating eco-friendly choices into our daily lives, such as using electric appliances and vehicles, we can collectively contribute to a more sustainable future.

In a recent article from NPR, Joel Rosenberg, from the nonprofit group Rewiring America, suggested a gradual approach to climate-friendly upgrades, advising individuals to make changes as existing appliances wear out. He emphasized the mantra, “When it starts dying, get electrifying.” Here are five climate-friendly purchases and their budget-friendly alternatives that can make a significant difference:

1. Induction Stoves for Environmentally Friendly Cooking

Consumer Reports recommends induction stoves, utilizing magnetism to heat pans efficiently. While slightly more expensive, these stoves outperform gas and traditional electric ones. Budget option: Induction burners for countertop use offer a cost-effective way to test the technology.

2. Heat Pump Technology for Heating and Cooling

Efficient furnaces and air conditioners using heat pump technology are endorsed for their energy-saving capabilities. Though initial costs vary, they offer long-term benefits. Budget options include portable heat pumps or smart thermostats to manage energy consumption effectively.

3. Heat Pump Water Heaters for Efficient Water Heating

Consumer Reports rates heat pump water heaters as more efficient than traditional options, despite the higher initial cost. Cheaper alternatives include using more efficient aerators to reduce water flow.

4. Energy Star-Certified Clothes Dryers

Choosing Energy Star-certified clothes dryers can save up to 20% energy. Heat pump clothes dryers recycle hot air for an even greener option, though they may take longer to dry clothes. Budget option: Traditional drying methods, such as outdoor clotheslines or indoor drying racks, are cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

5. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles for Eco-Friendly Transportation

Transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) significantly reduces emissions. EVs are becoming more affordable, with federal incentives and state subsidies available. Hybrid cars offer a middle ground, improving gas mileage and reducing emissions. Budget option: Utilizing public transportation when available is an energy-efficient and cost-effective alternative.

Joel Rosenberg encourages individuals to embrace these changes and emphasizes that even small steps contribute to a more sustainable future. He emphasized the importance of committing to avoiding future purchases of fossil fuel appliances, to address climate change collectively.

“The ideal, if you need a car, is to get an electric car,” Rosenberg said. “Every year, more and more cars are being manufactured that fit many needs, from pickup trucks to electric bicycles.”

• Politics

by Rafael Pena

January 17, 2024

Del. Don Scott Jr. Makes History As Virginia’s First Black Speaker Of The House

Virginia's Don Scott Jr., a Democrat from Portsmouth, has made history by becoming the state's first Black speaker in the House of Delegates.

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According to CBS News, Don Scott Jr., a Democrat from Portsmouth, Virginia, made history by becoming the state’s first Black speaker of the House of Delegates on Jan. 9. The historic swearing-in ceremony took place in Richmond, a city steeped in tradition and historical significance.

Scott, who was unanimously chosen by his party for the speakership in November, expressed gratitude for the trust his colleagues have placed in him. He took to X on Wednesday after the swearing-in, stating, “With the 2024 session now underway, I’m grateful for the trust that my colleagues have placed in me. Let’s meet this historic moment, and set our sights on moving Virginia forward.”

Scott’s journey to the speakership has been anything but traditional. After serving as a Navy officer and during his third year of law school, he spent nearly eight years in federal prison following a guilty plea in a drug conspiracy case. Reflecting on his past, Scott admitted, “I made the dreadful mistake of going to pick up some money, some drug money,” emphasizing that he had never been in trouble before.

Post-prison, Scott successfully completed his law degree, established a law practice, and eventually entered Virginia’s legislature. His political trajectory saw a rapid ascent, with him serving as minority leader since 2022 before gaining party backing for the chamber’s top post.

Acknowledging his unconventional journey, Scott remarked, “Damaged goods sometimes can turn out to be okay. We are a lot more interesting than the people that followed all the rules and did everything perfect.”

As the first Black speaker in the state’s 400-year history, Scott faces significant challenges. A vocal critic of Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin, he must navigate a slim majority in the House amid a divided government. In a surprising turn of events in November, Democrats flipped the House of Delegates, regaining control of the Senate, contrary to GOP expectations of securing a Republican trifecta.

Reflecting on the historical significance of his position, Scott stated, “We’re only a few miles from where the first slaves came into this country in 1619. Now 405 years later, you have your first Black speaker. So I’m very cognizant of the shoulders that I stand on. I take it very seriously. And I’m humbled and I’m, I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

With a list of priorities, including divisive issues like abortion and gun control, Scott is poised to address critical matters facing the Old Dominion State.

• Celebrity News

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

January 17, 2024

George Clinton To Receive Star On Hollywood Walk Of Fame

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce announced that George Clinton will receive the 2,769th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

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The Hollywood Walk of Fame is about to get funkier!

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce announced that Parliament founder and frontman George Clinton will get the 2,769^th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame this Friday, Jan. 19. The ceremony will take place at 11:30 a.m. PT at 6752 Hollywood Boulevard.

.@george_clinton is receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! George is a musician who shaped the sound of funk in the 70’s and his influence is still heard today! I’m proud to call George a dear friend and congratulate him on this prestigious honor!

— Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) January 13, 2024

Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, civil rights attorney Ben Crump, and songwriter Janie Bradford will be the guest speakers at the event, while journalist Sibley Scoles will be the emcee. Scoles is receiving the honor in the category of recording.

“George Clinton is a highly influential songwriter, record producer, and performer known for his contributions to Funk music. He has been instrumental in shaping the sound of Funk and pushing musical boundaries. His distinctive style, flamboyant persona, and psychedelic stage presence have made him a beloved figure and a pioneer of the genre,” Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, said in a statement. “We are thrilled that he’s going to be bringing the Funk to the Hollywood Walk of Fame!”

Clinton is the architect of Parliament/Funkadelic (P-Funk) and has been instrumental across many genres of music and a heavy influence on early West Coast hip-hop. The 82-year-old musician was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. Clinton is still on the road performing shows and is working on three recording projects to add to his funk legacy.

You can hear Clinton on the recordings of artists 2Pac, OutKast, Dr. Dre, Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliott, De La Soul, Ice Cube, Public Enemy, and Childish Gambino, to name but a few. Clinton also recently appeared on Travis Scott’s song “HYAENA,” off Scott’s latest album, UTOPIA.

The ceremony can be viewed live exclusively at walkoffame.com.

• News

by Rafael Pena

January 17, 2024

National Park Service Seeks Public Participation In Safeguarding MLK Home In Atlanta

The National Park Service (NPS) has announced plans for the preservation and protection of the King Family Home located at 234 Sunset Avenue in Atlanta's historic Vine City neighborhood.

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To ensure the lasting legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the National Park Service (NPS) announced plans for the preservation and protection of the King Family Home located at 234 Sunset Avenue in Atlanta’s historic Vine City neighborhood. The NPS is actively seeking public participation in developing a comprehensive site plan to safeguard this significant historical landmark.

The NPS envisions the long-term preservation of the King Family Home, providing a platform for visitors to delve into the profound story of Dr. King’s life and his family’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. The project aims to showcase the King family’s ties to the Vine City neighborhood and their pivotal role in shaping American history.

The initiative comes at a crucial time, when the safety of historical landmarks is a growing concern. Just last month, an incident occurred at the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. where a woman was arrested for attempting to damage the site with gasoline. Atlanta Police have identified her as 26-year-old Laneisha Shantrice Henderson. She is facing charges of second-degree arson and interfering with government property. Henderson has been officially booked into Fulton County Jail. Although the attempt was unsuccessful, it raised alarms about the vulnerability of such revered landmarks.

Shatika Armstrong, who was visiting landmarks on MLK Day, emphasized the need to protect these homes, stating, “We want it around [for] a long time, from generation to generation. Keep it alive, keep it looking good and preserve it.”

Since acquiring the King Family Home in 2018, the NPS has diligently worked to stabilize the aging structure and preserve its historical features. The public is encouraged to participate in the preservation process through a public comment period open from Jan. 15 to Feb. 29. Additionally, two public meetings are scheduled for Jan. 30 and Jan. 31 to discuss the project in detail.

Dr. King and his wife purchased the home in October 1964, which served as the family’s residence until his assassination in 1968. Eventually, the house became a Memorial Center for Martin Luther King as a testament to his legacy and contributions to the civil rights movement.

by Rafael Pena

January 16, 2024

Versailles Couple Surprised By $130K Lottery Jackpot, Initially Thought It Was $30K

A pair of Show Me Cash players in Versailles, Missouri, recently experienced an unexpected windfall when what they thought was a $30,000 prize turned out to be a whopping $130,000 jackpot.

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WSBTV reported that a pair of Show Me Cash players in Versailles, Missouri, recently experienced an unexpected windfall when what they thought was a $30,000 prize turned out to be a whopping $130,000 jackpot. The surprise revelation came when a Missouri lottery employee congratulated them on their significant win.

The winners, who purchased their tickets at Walmart on 1003 W. Newton in Versailles, were initially unaware of the true extent of their prize. Even though one of the winners suspected they had won, the prize amount remained unknown until they visited the lottery headquarters in Jefferson City.

There, they were informed that their ticket perfectly matched all five numbers drawn on Dec. 15, making them the sole winners of the $130,000 Show Me Cash jackpot. The winners shared their excitement, stating, “It was a good surprise. We thought it was $30,000 and were happy with that!”

The winning numbers for the jackpot draw were 2, 3, 8, 25, and 38. Show Me Cash draws occur daily at 8:59 p.m., with jackpots starting at $50,000 and growing until claimed. The estimated jackpot for the upcoming draw stands at $103,000.

Morgan County proved exceptionally fortunate for lottery players in FY23, with winnings exceeding $5.5 million in total Missouri lottery prizes. Additionally, local retailers in the county received over $370,000 in commissions and bonuses, contributing to the economic impact of lottery activities. Education programs also benefited, receiving more than $198,000 in appropriated lottery proceeds.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

January 16, 2024

Brooklyn Man Killed After Trying To Break Up Dispute On Subway

His family and community are calling him a hero.

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A Brooklyn man lost his life while reportedly playing peacemaker on a New York City subway on Sunday, Jan. 14.

Richard Henderson, 45, tried to intervene in a dispute on a Manhattan-bound No. 3 train, breaking up a dispute between the alleged killer and another passenger after a complaint about playing music excessively loud on the subway. Henderson was hit with two bullets, one in the back and the other in the shoulder. After being shot, the train pulled into the Franklin Avenue station in Crown Heights, where the police were waiting, following a 9-1-1 call around 8:15 p.m. He was transported to Kings County Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at around 9:05 p.m.

The father of three had been watching football with friends and was just three stops away from home. Police officials stated that there have been no arrests, and they are not sure if Henderson or the person arguing with the gunman was the target.

“Our hearts go out to the family of Richard Henderson,” President of New York City Transit Richard Davey said in a written statement. “This is another sad reminder that gun violence has no place in this city,” he said. “The M.T.A. is cooperating fully with the investigation to ensure the perpetrator can be brought to justice.”

His wife of almost 20 years stated that he always stood up to bullies.