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HOLLYWOOD UNLOCKED RAISES $1.7 MILLION IN SEED FUNDING

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Hidden Empire Film Group, Brown Venture Group and Black Capital Invest In Media Platform Created By Media Mogul Jason Lee

LOS ANGELES /PRNewswire/ — Hollywood Unlocked Inc., the Black-owned news content platform offering the latest articles and insights on the world of Hollywood, founded by culture critic and media mogul Jason Lee, announced today that it has raised approximately $1.7 million in seed investments the most recent of which values the company at more than $50 million. Investors in the entertainment platform include Hidden Empire Film Group, owned by Hollywood prolific filmmaking team Deon Taylor and Roxanne Avent-Taylor, Brown Venture Group, which invests exclusively in minority-led technology companies, and Black Capital, a Black-owned venture fund managed by former Sacramento Mayor, Kevin Johnson. Other institutional investors include Bracket Capital and Intuition Capital.

HOLLYWOOD UNLOCKED RAISES $1.7 MILLION IN SEED FUNDING

Capital raised is ear-marked for further development of Hollywood Unlocked’s technology platform, business expansion and operations. With substantial growth in viewership across platforms, and the launch of an in-house studio space that will produce a new streaming talk show “The Jason Lee Show”, Hollywood Unlocked is gearing up for further expansion planned for later this year within the following key areas:

  • Education: Launching Millionaire Media Unlocked, an online course in which Jason Lee reveals his blueprint for building successful blogs and podcasts. Lee walks users through some of his successes and failures by sharing the industry knowledge needed to get started. Users will also be able to learn how to form, build and manage their own potentially multi-million media companies
  • Empowerment: Activating the power of pop culture to uplift at-risk youth through the Hollywood Cares Foundation, with a particular focus on underserved minority communities to help them drive lasting change, for themselves and others, The Hollywood Cares Foundation will also leverage the arts, entertainment industry, and brands to equip young people to thrive in their academic, social, and civic lives. Under Jason Lee’s guidance, the Foundation will aim to inspire change by providing opportunities for young people to be active participants in creating the culture that surrounds them, to empower themselves and each other
  • Entertainment: Launching a new talk show format to drive momentum around pop culture’s biggest moments with iconic television shows and radio productions such as “Hollywood Unlocked with Jason Lee” and the “Hollywood Unlocked with Jason Lee [UNCENSORED]” podcast that addresses the latest rumors to a millennial-focused collective audience with captivating tell-all interviews with exclusive celebrity guests. HU sets the standards for industry accomplishments by celebrating industry milestones and cultural significance with the brand’s annual Impact Awards.

“It’s important for us to find partnership with investment groups that share a similar vision in uplifting marginalized voices in entertainment that are shifting our culture forward,” said Jason Lee, Founder and CEO of Hollywood Unlocked. “We are extremely grateful for our partners at Hidden Empire Film Group, Brown Venture Group and Black Capital and look forward to what is ahead.”

Hollywood Unlocked is on a mission to create spaces for Black voices. The platform addresses the latest hottest news topics for its growing millennial-focused collective audience of currently more than seven million weekly, and gives captivating tell-all interviews with top-tier celebrity names such as Cardi B, Tiffany Haddish, and Ye (formerly Kanye West). A mainstay for the hottest scoops and the most memorable trending celebrity moments, and one of the nation’s leading entertainment brands, “Hollywood Unlocked with Jason Lee” produces thousands of hours of content and drives engagement exceeding 550 million impressions per month, along with amassing more than 2.9 million Instagram followers. Coming off a successful Hollywood Unlocked Second Annual Impact Awards last summer, Lee teamed up with Ye to host a Black Futures Brunch with key voices within the media to talk about the importance of Black representation within the industry.

“We are thrilled to invest in Jason Lee and his larger purpose and vision as a Black entrepreneur. He’s the real deal,” says Chris Brooks, Co-Founder of Brown Venture Group. “As Hollywood Unlocked’s visionary, Jason’s accomplishments and mission resonates with a broad and engaged consumer base, and we are excited to see what he has in line for the future,” said Kevin Johnson, Founding and Managing Partner of Black Capital. “When I envision the future of media, I see Jason at the helm as a disruptor and innovator pushing our narrative forward,” Johnson said.

About Hollywood Unlocked
Hollywood Unlocked is an exclusive entertainment news platform created by culture disruptor, Jason Lee, to provide celebrity news in a candid dialogue that is both engaging and authentic. Hollywood Unlocked is at the intersection where fans and influencers meet. Through content accuracy, exclusive and original content, Hollywood Unlocked has become a fast-growing competitive source of entertainment news to the masses.

About Hidden Empire Film Group
Prolific filmmaking team Deon Taylor and Roxanne Avent-Taylor, in partnership with investor and philanthropist Robert F. Smith, launched Hidden Empire Film Group with the belief that multi-cultural representation is good business. Hidden Empire Film Group develops, produces, and distributes high concept, commercially viable content targeted to an engaged global multi-cultural audience that is passionate about culture – because culture moves the world. Hidden Empire Film Group‘s company portfolio consists of; Hidden Empire Films, the company’s anchor film & television development and production house; Hidden Empire Releasing, its independent film distribution and content sales company focused on serving the global multi-cultural community; Hidden Empire Studios, its premiere full service content production studio, avid editing facility, and virtual and pop-up event space designed to aid social media content creators; Hidden Empire TV, its owned and controlled streaming channel showcasing Hidden Empire’s library of TV episodes, movies and original content; and Hyper Engine, a marketing & branding agency that specializes in reaching diverse audiences.

About Brown Venture Group
Founded in 2018, Brown Venture Group, LLC provides technology Founders of Color with investment capital, training and professional networks that assist in launching and scaling tech-based startups. BVG are members of the National Association of Investment Companies. For more information go to brownventuregroup.com.

About Black Capital
Black Capital is an early-stage fund focused on investing in black and other underrepresented founders. Black Capital’s mission is to build wealth for the black community by democratizing access to Venture Capital. Founded in 2020, it was created with the vision to elevate communities of color to gain financial independence, build wealth, and decrease economic inequality in this country.

SOURCE Hollywood Unlocked

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National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day: Celebrating Small Business Excellence in 2024

“March 29 is National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day! Let’s celebrate the small businesses that make our communities thrive. #SupportLocal”

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March 29th is a day dedicated to appreciating the hardworking small business owners who contribute to the growth and vitality of our economy, “Mom and Pop Business Owners.” On this special day, we acknowledge the more than 27 million small businesses in the country and shine a spotlight on their remarkable efforts.

National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day was established by Rick and Margie Segel in honor of their parents and the success of their clothing shop that started from humble beginnings. It’s a time to recognize the long hours, dedication, and hard work it takes to run a small business.

Celebrating National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day!

So, how can we celebrate this important day?

  1. Shop Local: Support the small businesses in your community by seeking them out and becoming a regular customer. Whether it’s a local bookstore, bakery, or boutique, make it a point to visit them frequently. If you hear about an interesting spot, go on an adventure to discover it and then share your recommendations with friends.
  2. Use Social Media: Most small businesses are grateful for any extra attention they can get. Show your support by following your favorite mom and pop shops on social media platforms, and whenever possible, promote and share their posts. A simple like or comment can go a long way in helping them reach a wider audience.
  3. Write a “Thank You” Note: Take a moment to express your gratitude to the mom and pop shop owners and employees who have made a difference in your life. Let them know how much you appreciate their hard work and dedication. A heartfelt note can mean the world to someone who puts their heart and soul into their business.

Now let’s delve into why we love mom and pop businesses:

  1. Personalized Shopping Experience: Mom and pop businesses take pride in providing personalized service to their customers. They take the time to get to know you, understand your needs, and make your shopping experience memorable. Unlike large retail chains, they genuinely care about their customers and strive to create a unique and enjoyable experience with superior customer service.
  2. Community Support: Small businesses play a crucial role in supporting the local community. They create job opportunities, hire locally, and recycle the money they earn back into the neighborhood. By choosing to spend your dollars at mom and pop establishments, you contribute to the growth and sustainability of your community.
  3. Unique Discoveries: In a world where big-box stores dominate, mom and pop shops bring a breath of fresh air and unique products to the marketplace. They often showcase goods that are different from what you’ll find in every chain store. Discovering something special and undiscovered is quite the delight, and supporting these businesses encourages innovation and diversity.

National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day is a reminder of the remarkable contributions made by small businesses. They are the backbone of our economy, providing jobs, personalized service, and unique experiences for customers. So, on March 29th, let’s show our appreciation for these hardworking individuals and make a conscious effort to support and celebrate the mom and pop shops in our communities.

https://nationaltoday.com/national-mom-pop-business-owners-day/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/

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Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging Dual Language Programs in Arizona Schools

Judge Cooper dismissed Arizona’s school chief’s lawsuit challenging dual language programs for non-English speakers, affirming State Board of Education’s authority in approving language models. This reinforces adherence to approved educational standards.

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In a recent legal development that has garnered attention, a judge has dismissed a lawsuit brought forward by Arizona’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Horne, challenging dual language programs used in certain school districts to educate non-English speaking students. The dispute stemmed from the argument that these programs, which split a student’s day between English and another language, violated a 2000 voter-approved law mandating English-only instruction.

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Katherine Cooper’s ruling on Tuesday was a significant turning point in this legal battle. She determined that Horne lacked the legal authority and standing to initiate the lawsuit and failed to present valid legal claims against Governor Katie Hobbs, Attorney General Kris Mayes, and the 10 school districts involved.

Judge Cooper’s decision highlighted the state Board of Education’s role in approving language immersion models, emphasizing that the school districts in question were following approved models. She clarified that the responsibility for developing and sanctioning immersion models lies with the State Board, not individual districts. As per her ruling, all public and charter schools must adhere to models endorsed by the State Board.

This ruling not only resolves the immediate legal dispute but also underscores the importance of adhering to established educational guidelines and processes. It reaffirms the regulatory role of the State Board of Education in approving language instruction models, providing clarity on the standards that schools must follow.

The outcome of this lawsuit marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding language education in Arizona. It serves as a reminder of the legal framework that governs educational practices and the significance of compliance with state-approved guidelines. Ultimately, this decision underscores the need for a clear, standardized approach to language education that aligns with the broader educational objectives of the state.

https://apnews.com/article/arizona-dual-language-program-lawsuit-schools-c850b20bddb673219ec316f0c646c316

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/

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The Controversy Surrounding Guaranteed-Basic-Income in Arizona: A Republican Stance

Arizona Republicans unite against guaranteed-basic-income programs, citing concerns over socialism and unearned payments.

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Arizona Republican lawmakers have taken a stand against the concept of guaranteed-basic-income programs with the recent passing of House Bill 2375. Despite the state grappling with high rates of homelessness, the Republican majority in the Arizona House of Representatives voted in unison to prohibit such programs. This decision has sparked a debate on the effectiveness and implications of such initiatives in addressing poverty and wealth disparity.

The bill’s sponsor, GOP Rep. Lupe Diaz, equated guaranteed-basic-income programs to socialism, labeling the payments as “unearned.” This perspective aligns with the broader Republican stance on welfare policies and government assistance. The legislation aims to block any scheme that provides individuals with regular cash payments without a prerequisite of work or training.

Basic-income programs have gained momentum nationwide as a potential solution to bridge the wealth gap and alleviate poverty. These initiatives offer financial support to specific demographics, often those living in poverty or near the poverty line, without imposing conditions on how the funds should be utilized. They stand in contrast to universal-basic-income programs, which distribute funds universally regardless of income levels.

The contentious nature of this bill underscores a fundamental ideological divide regarding social welfare and economic policies. While proponents view guaranteed-basic-income as a progressive step towards addressing systemic inequalities, opponents like the Arizona Republican lawmakers raise concerns about dependency, misuse of funds, and the encroachment of socialist ideologies.

As the bill progresses to the Arizona Senate, where Republicans hold a slight majority, the fate of guaranteed-basic-income programs in the state hangs in the balance. The outcome of this legislative battle will not only impact Arizona but may reverberate across the nation, shaping the discourse on poverty alleviation and social welfare policies.

The debate around guaranteed-basic-income programs reflects the broader societal conversation on economic justice and the role of the government in supporting vulnerable populations. While opinions may differ on the efficacy of such initiatives, it is imperative to critically assess their potential benefits and drawbacks in the pursuit of a more equitable society.

Source: Business Insider

https://www.businessinsider.com/arizona-gop-ban-guaranteed-basic-income-programs-homelessness-poverty-2024-2

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