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The Obama Presidential Center and Library is opening in Chicago in Jackson Park today, and the former president received a hilarious surprise.

Obama Foundation chair Martin Nesbitt surprised Barack by wearing a tan suit to the opening ceremony, saying “a good friend” inspired it.

“You look good,” the former president told Nesbitt.

Source: C-SPAN

HOLLYWOOD CAN’T COMPETE WITH THIS 📱👀

Kevin Hart kept it real during his appearance on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, explaining how today’s streamers are making “millions and millions of dollars with an iPhone and a selfie stick” while pulling in advertising money that once went directly to Hollywood studios.

Hart pointed out that major film and television productions are spending millions to create content, while some streamers are reaching the same audiences with setups that cost almost nothing. He explained that “the gap is crazy” and said the entertainment industry is being forced to adjust in real time as streaming and digital creators continue taking over traditional television. According to Hart, the numbers don’t lie ..and Hollywood is feeling the shift more than ever.

At a moment when many Black entrepreneurs are questioning where sustainable support will come from next, the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. is betting on growth.

The organization recently announced the launch of the USBC 360° Accelerator, a 12-week hybrid program designed to support growth-stage Black founders in the consumer packaged goods industry.

The Accelerator aims to help Black-owned brands strengthen operations, scale, and access new growth opportunities at a time when many diversity-focused funding initiatives are shrinking or disappearing altogether.

https://www.blackenterprise.com/usbc-360-accelerator-black-owned-brands/

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has withdrawn from a televised Los Angeles mayoral candidate forum scheduled for May 13 on FOX 11, according to a statement released Friday by the League of Women Voters of Greater Los Angeles and the Pat Brown Institute for Public Affairs. https://ktla.com/news/local-news/karen-bass-cancels-appearance-at-televised-l-a-mayoral-forum/

Kelvin Mensah and Aaron Wilson saw an opportunity in the luxury aviation market and decided to create something extraordinary. In 2019, they launched Approved Jets from Miami, Florida, building a Black-owned private aviation brokerage that would challenge the traditional players in this exclusive industry. Their vision was simple yet ambitious: provide unparalleled jet charter and concierge services while representing excellence in entrepreneurship.

The numbers speak volumes about their success story. By 2022, Approved Jets had brokered more than 500 flights, establishing themselves as a formidable presence in the private aviation space. With annual growth exceeding 25%, they've proven that dedication, strategic thinking, and exceptional service can rapidly transform a startup into a thriving enterprise. Their client base continues to expand as word spreads about their reliability and attention to detail.

What sets Approved Jets apart goes beyond just booking flights. Mensah and Wilson have created a full-service experience that includes comprehensive concierge services, ensuring every aspect of their clients' travel needs is meticulously handled. From Miami's dynamic business landscape, they've built relationships with aircraft operators worldwide, giving their clients access to premium jets and personalized service. Their journey demonstrates how innovative entrepreneurs can successfully enter and excel in traditionally exclusive markets while building lasting value for their community.