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  • Amex Boosts Small Biz with AI Scholarships

    American Express is stepping up to help small businesses navigate the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. Recognizing that many entrepreneurs want to harness AI but lack the know-how, Amex has launched new initiatives focused on AI training and workforce development, making it easier for small businesses to adopt these powerful tools.

    Bridging the AI Knowledge Gap

    Many small business owners see the potential of generative AI for tasks like customer service, marketing, and administrative work, but the technical knowledge required can be a major hurdle. To address this, American Express has partnered with nonprofits Generation and Scholarship America to create accessible learning opportunities.

    One key program, ‘AI Upskilling for Small Business,’ offers online courses in both English and Spanish. The curriculum is designed for business owners and their employees worldwide, focusing on practical applications rather than abstract theories. It includes specialized tracks in areas like digital marketing, customer success, and general AI operations.

    Scholarships for AI Certification

    Complementing the training courses, American Express is also introducing the ‘Smart Futures for Small Business Scholarships’ program. This initiative provides financial support to eligible U.S. workers, enabling them to pursue AI certification courses from accredited institutions and technology vendors. These scholarships aim to equip individuals with the technical skills that are increasingly vital across various industries.

    Jennifer Skyler, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at American Express, explained the goal: to help small businesses transition from simply experimenting with AI to consistently using it as a tool for boosting productivity and unlocking growth opportunities. This move reflects a growing understanding of AI’s potential to level the playing field for smaller enterprises.

    A Growing Trend in Small Business

    This initiative aligns with a broader trend observed in the small business economy. A recent American Express Trendex report indicated that over half of surveyed small businesses are already utilizing AI, reporting improvements in efficiency and customer service. However, many owners admit they are still exploring how to strategically implement the technology.

    Industry analysts note that the demand for AI education is rising as small businesses face pressure to modernize. Unlike large corporations, they often lack the extensive budgets and dedicated staffing resources for such advancements. Amex’s programs aim to fill this critical gap, empowering small businesses to compete effectively in an increasingly tech-driven landscape.

    What are your thoughts on American Express’s new AI education programs for small businesses? How do you see AI impacting your business or industry? Share your views in the comments below!

  • Carrie Everett, First HBCU Miss North Carolina, Dies at 24

    It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of Carrie Everett, a true trailblazer who shattered barriers in the pageant world. Everett, who made history as the first student from an HBCU to be crowned Miss North Carolina, died on Easter Sunday after a courageous battle with a rare and aggressive form of gastric cancer. She was just 24 years old.

    A Historic Reign

    Everett, a student at North Carolina Central University (NCCU), captivated judges with her leadership, talent, and powerful advocacy during the 2024 Miss North Carolina pageant. Her victory was a monumental moment, proving that ambition and dreams can flourish regardless of background or institutional affiliation. She openly shared the financial hurdles she faced in pursuing pageantry, relying on community support to achieve her goal.

    Upon winning the crown, Everett expressed her desire for her achievement to inspire others. “I can be the first but not the last,” she told CBS 17, as reported by HBCU Gameday. “I want young women from all over the state and throughout the country attending HBCUs that this opportunity is for them.”

    Championing Equity in Pageantry

    During her reign, Everett dedicated herself to promoting equity within the pageant system. Her community service initiative, “We Need Equity to Build Communities,” aimed to break down barriers and encourage broader participation. She advocated for increased funding for wardrobe and accessibility, ensuring that aspiring contestants from diverse backgrounds could pursue scholarship opportunities.

    A Legacy of Inspiration

    Even as she battled her life-altering diagnosis of metastatic signet ring cell carcinoma, which she received in July 2025, Everett remained dedicated to her goals. She was pursuing a degree in vocal performance at NCCU, with plans to graduate in 2027. Her ambition, grace, and tenacity have left an indelible mark.

    NCCU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon remembered Everett as a “trailblazer who shared her inspirational talent and leadership with so many.” The university mourns the loss of their “fallen eagle,” whose legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of students and aspiring leaders.

    How has Carrie Everett’s story inspired you? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below to celebrate her remarkable life and legacy.

  • Usher Sells Cavaliers Stake, Focuses On ‘Good Good’ Investments

    Usher is making moves beyond the music charts! The Grammy-winning artist has recently sold his minority stake in the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers, a team he’s been a part of since 2004. While he’s saying goodbye to his ownership role after more than two decades, Usher emphasizes that his investment philosophy remains focused on ‘good good’ ventures with cultural significance.

    A Savvy Investment Comes to a Close

    Usher initially invested $9 million for a 1% stake in the Cavaliers, partnering with Quicken Loans founder Dan Gilbert. During his ownership, the team achieved significant success, including a championship win in 2016 with LeBron James. The franchise’s valuation has since soared, with Forbes estimating it at $4.8 billion. Despite the impressive financial return, Usher confirmed the sale was a strategic decision and that his relationship with Gilbert remains strong.

    Speaking with Forbes, the 47-year-old entertainer shared his approach to investing: ‘I am open and available for ideas that I think give people some sort of cultural connection and experience. I don’t like to just invest in things just because of the numbers.’ For Usher, genuine organic ties to a venture are paramount, even if it means potentially overlooking purely analytical financial gains.

    Beyond Sports: A Diverse Portfolio

    Usher’s business acumen extends far beyond sports ownership. He’s involved in various startups and is collaborating with rapper Big Sean on a $1 million entertainment innovation incubator. He’s also investing in his adopted hometown of Atlanta, contributing to the massive $5 billion Centennial Yards development project aimed at transforming the downtown area into an entertainment hub.

    Through his Usher’s New Look Foundation, he actively supports Atlanta teens with mentorship programs. Despite his extensive experience, Usher remains eager to learn, seeking mentorship from seasoned investors as he continues to expand his diverse portfolio. His commitment to excellence is unwavering: ‘It is excellence or nothing for me.’

    What do you think of Usher’s investment strategy? Are there any other ventures you’d like to see him get involved in? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Maxine Waters, 87, Vows to Stay in Leadership

    At 87 years young, Democratic Representative Maxine Waters is making it clear she’s not ready to step down from Capitol Hill. The veteran California congresswoman is aiming to retain her leadership position as Chair of the House Financial Services Committee, should her party secure the majority in the upcoming November midterm elections.

    A Push for Continued Leadership Amidst Age Concerns

    If Democrats regain control, Waters would become the oldest leader in the committee’s history, tackling critical issues like cryptocurrency, the concerns of the one percent, and the role of Wall Street regulators. However, her age has become a point of discussion among some Democrats who question whether she still possesses the necessary drive for such a demanding role.

    Waters, affectionately known as ‘Auntie Maxine,’ dismisses these concerns with characteristic vigor. “If you take a look at my energy and what I do—I am Auntie Maxine,” she told Politico. “I’m the one who popularized ‘reclaiming my time.’ … I don’t know who’s got more energy, more concern. And so, Maxine Waters seems to be doing alright.”

    Support and Challenges to Her Tenure

    While Waters has shown no public signs of diminished capacity and maintains support from colleagues and aides, the question of age persists. Rep. Sean Casten (D-IL), a member of the Financial Services committee, acknowledged the need for “hard conversations” when individuals might be “visibly past their time,” but added, “That’s a mental issue, not an age issue. And I don’t have any concern that she’s mentally up for the job.”

    Others, like Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), agree that Waters is still effective, but the underlying question of future leadership remains. Her primary challenger, Myla Rahman, suggests it’s time to “pass the baton and let a new generation of leadership come have a seat at the table.”

    Public Opinion and Constitutional Rights

    Public sentiment also reflects a desire for age limits in elected office. A recent poll indicated that 63% of voters favor age limits, with 70 identified as a cut-off age. This sentiment could impact seasoned politicians like Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, and Reps. Bennie Thompson and Jim Clyburn, if implemented.

    Despite these discussions, Waters remains steadfast, citing her legislative record and commitment to working across the aisle. Since her election to represent California’s 43rd Congressional District in 1991, she has successfully passed and implemented legislation. Waters believes in the democratic process: “I believe that everybody who wants to run should have an opportunity to run… And that’s the way the Constitution works. And that’s the way we should think about it.”

    What are your thoughts on age limits for elected officials? Do you believe experience or a new generation of leadership is more important? Share your views in the comments below!

  • Stephen A. Smith Explains Leaving ‘NBA Countdown’

    You might have heard the news: Stephen A. Smith is no longer a regular fixture on ESPN’s ‘NBA Countdown.’ But before the speculation runs wild, the outspoken sports commentator himself has clarified the situation. It turns out, his departure wasn’t ESPN pushing him out, but rather a strategic move he negotiated as part of his massive $100 million contract.

    A Negotiated Departure

    On a recent episode of ‘The Stephen A. Smith Show,’ he directly addressed the announcement of a “new-look NBA Countdown” that wouldn’t feature him full-time. Smith made it clear: “I didn’t want to be on the show. I negotiated coming off of it.” This wasn’t a case of being let go; it was a conscious decision to step away from that specific role.

    Smith explained that while he enjoyed his time on ‘NBA Countdown,’ his new contract allows him the flexibility to pursue other aspirations. “I got other things that I want to do, to prepare for First Take the next day, the next morning, and to do an abundance of other things that I aspire to do,” he stated. This includes managing his production company and hosting two SiriusXM shows.

    Flexibility Within the Contract

    This move isn’t entirely new information. Reports from March indicated that Smith would no longer be a regular on the pregame show, and ESPN confirmed his contract primarily requires his presence on ‘First Take.’ However, Smith emphasized that he’s not completely off the hook for ‘NBA Countdown.’

    He clarified that he still has days allocated in his contract to appear on ‘NBA Countdown’ for special occasions or when needed, particularly for games in Los Angeles. So, while he won’t be there full-time, he’s still available for guest spots. It seems this negotiation was all about optimizing his time and focusing on his broader career goals beyond just the studio desk.

    This strategic shift highlights how high-profile personalities can leverage their value to shape their roles within major media networks, ensuring they have the bandwidth for diverse projects and ambitions.

    What do you think about Stephen A. Smith’s decision to step away from ‘NBA Countdown’? Let us know in the comments!

  • Dallas Hospital Accused of Mistreating Black Woman in Labor

    A distressing incident at Dallas Regional Medical Center has ignited widespread concern and outrage after a viral TikTok video surfaced, alleging mistreatment of a Black woman in active labor. The video, posted by user kashman2814, has garnered millions of views and brought renewed attention to the critical issue of racial bias in healthcare.

    Allegations of Neglect and Delay

    The TikTok user, who is the mother of the woman in labor, shared harrowing details of the experience. According to her account, her daughter was left in the waiting area for over 30 minutes while in severe pain. Despite arriving via ambulance during active labor, they were reportedly directed to the front entrance and then told by front desk staff that they couldn’t proceed without completing paperwork, further delaying care.

    The video shows the birthing mother screaming in pain in a wheelchair, while staff allegedly asked check-in questions instead of providing immediate assistance. The mother further alleged that her daughter was told to wait for induction due to a lack of available beds, only for mistreatment to occur upon her return to give birth.

    Criticism and Support for the Family

    The TikTok user publicly criticized Dallas Regional Medical Center, accusing staff of neglecting Black women and their babies. “Do not go to this hospital. This hospital is ghetto as hell. They do not care about black women or their babies,” she stated in a separate video, expressing disbelief at the firsthand experience of such alleged mistreatment.

    Viewers have rallied behind the family, with many sharing their own negative experiences or attempts to file complaints. One viewer reported calling the hospital to complain, only to be told the operator was aware of the incident but inquired about the caller’s presence. The viewer then requested a transfer to Risk Management and filed a formal complaint.

    Addressing the Black Maternal Health Crisis

    A former ER nurse and current labor and delivery nurse featured in another video expressed outrage, pointing to the incident as an example of racial bias against Black patients, particularly Black women. She emphasized that “there is no excuse for the blatant neglect I just witnessed” and reminded viewers that “Black women are three times as likely to die in and around childbirth than their white counterparts,” underscoring the severity of the Black maternal health crisis.

    What are your thoughts on this alleged incident at Dallas Regional Medical Center? Share your reactions and support for the family in the comments below!

  • XCEL Summit Celebrates Black Men’s Achievements

    The XCEL Summit For Men, formerly known as the Black Men XCEL Summit, is celebrating its 10th anniversary, continuing its mission to honor and elevate the accomplishments of Black men. Founded in August 2017 by BLACK ENTERPRISE, the summit has become a signature event dedicated to celebrating the personal and professional growth of Black men, offering a space that goes beyond traditional boardrooms.

    A Space for Celebration and Growth

    The XCEL Summit For Men is designed to be a sanctuary where Black men can receive recognition for their achievements, find support, and foster tangible professional growth. It acknowledges the unique challenges and triumphs faced by Black men striving for excellence in various fields. “Black Men XCEL is both a declaration and a quantum leap forward in the recognition of the achievements, leadership, and excellence of Black men,” shared BE President and CEO Earl “Butch” Graves. “It is the perfect opportunity for Black men—and the women who love them—to indulge, celebrate, and enjoy themselves.”

    This year’s summit, held from October 15th to 17th at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Orlando, kicked off with a welcome reception hosted by Fidelity Investments and culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding honorees. This year’s summit takes place amidst a backdrop of rising attacks on Black professionals and executives, making the summit’s focus on support and celebration even more critical.

    Esteemed Honorees and Special Guests

    The 2025 XCEL Summit honored several distinguished Black men for their unwavering commitment to excellence. This year’s honorees included Troy Taylor (founder/chairman & CEO of Coca-Cola Beverages), John Hope Bryant (founder/chairman & CEO of Operation HOPE, Inc. | Bryant Group Ventures LLC), George C. Fraser (founder of FraserNet Inc.), Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson (senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church), Larry Fitzgerald Jr. (former NFL player, philanthropist, and investor), and Robert Smith (founder/chairman & CEO of Vista Equity Partners).

    The summit’s programming will address crucial topics relevant to Black men today, including mental health, the pressures of leadership, and strategies for thriving in corporate and cultural environments that can sometimes be unwelcoming. Attendees can expect a wealth of networking opportunities and sessions focused on skill development.

    A Legacy of Recognition

    The XCEL Summit has a rich history of recognizing influential Black men. The inaugural event featured figures like film director Robert Townsend, REVOLT Media Co-Founder Keith Clinkscales, and Emmy-winning broadcaster Ed Gordon. The first XCEL Award for Excellence and Leadership was posthumously awarded to the late Rep. John Lewis. Subsequent honorees, receiving the Earl G. Graves Vanguard Award, include notable figures such as T.D. Jakes, Kenneth Chenault, Tommie Smith, Jesse Jackson, Ben Crump, and Anthony Anderson.

    The XCEL Summit For Men continues to be a powerful gathering that fosters growth, celebration, and legacy-building, both within the C-suite and beyond. It remains a vital platform for uplifting and empowering Black men across various professional spheres.

    Have you attended the XCEL Summit For Men? What was your experience like? Share your thoughts on the importance of celebrating Black men’s achievements in the comments below!