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Florida Officials Say More Than 160 Missing Children Were Found in Statewide Law Enforcement Operation
Tennessee governor announces partnership to rename Nashville International Airport for Dolly Parton: What you should know

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Nashville International Airport and Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee have announced a partnership to rename the airport for the late great Dolly Parton.

The governor’s office announced the partnership Friday morning, stating their intent was to name BNA in honor of Dolly, “creating a lasting tribute to her indelible legacy and the generations of people she inspired across Tennessee and around the world.”

Calls to have the airport renamed for Parton began soon after her death on Tuesday, Aug. 25, with an online petition garnering tens of thousands of signatures.

The petition was actually created in January 2025, long before Parton’s death, but has since gained traction, gathering hundreds of signatures by the hour. It calls on the governor and three members of the Tennessee House of Representatives to make the change.

As of Friday, Aug. 28, the petition had more than 150,000 signatures.

The idea also has support from celebrities, with Sheryl Crow weighing in on the subject during an

According to the governor’s office, his team spoke with Parton’s team about the proposal this week. Her team reportedly shared their appreciation for the “extraordinary outpouring of support” to honor Parton in that way and were said to be “touched by the idea and open to continuing the conversation.”

Parton’s team reportedly believes she “still has a special way of bringing people together for good, and they hope this tribute can be another example of that enduring legacy,” per the governor’s office.

“Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state,” Lee said. “From her rural mountain home in East Tennessee to global stages, Dolly carried the Volunteer Spirit with her. At a place where Tennessee welcomes the world, it is fitting that Nashville International Airport would bear the name of our state’s favorite daughter and greet travelers with the enduring legacy of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith, and kindness.”

One state lawmaker has already publicly pledged to file legislation in the general assembly to have the airport renamed for the country music icon and philanthropist. Another announced he will file a bill to designate Sept. 25 as “9 to 5 Day” in honor of one of Parton’s iconic songs. Other Tennessee lawmakers have said the plans to honor Parton through other legislation once the Tennessee General Assembly convenes in January.

“BNA is the front door to Music City, and with that comes a responsibility to reflect the very best of who we are as a community,” said Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority. “Dolly’s remarkable legacy reminds us that what makes Nashville special is our ability to welcome people from every walk of life. She understood that dignity, kindness, and opportunity should never be defined by where you come from or your socioeconomic status. At BNA, we share that commitment. Whether you are boarding a private aircraft or taking your first flight, you deserve to be welcomed, respected and served with the same level of care. That spirit is what defines BNA and it is a fitting reflection of the values Dolly shared with Tennessee and the world.”

The Metro Nashville Airport Authority has an existing naming policy that will be addressed alongside the governor’s proposal to rename the airport at the next MNAA board meeting, set for Sept. 17. More details will be announced in the coming weeks, per the governor’s office.

The decision was met with support from many, including local and state elected officials.

Dolly was in the process of working with us on a remarkable hotel and museum — SongTeller — that she called her love letter to Nashville. Now it’s our turn to share a love letter to Dolly — by renaming Nashville International Airport to Dolly Parton International Airport in Nashville.

We’ve stayed in touch with Dolly’s team and family through this difficult process of mourning and are working closely with them on appropriate public recognition.

Mayor Freddie O’Connell

Metro Councilman Jordan Huffman (District 14) said on social media he “could think of no better name for our airport.”

State Sen. Heidi Campbell (D-Nashville) said she would, “love to see this happen. It just has to happen the right way, and Dolly, of all people, deserves it done right.”

According to State Rep. Justin Jones (D-Nashville), “As the Representative for BNA I am in full support of this effort to rename the airport to Dolly Parton International Airport, and hope we have a strong, bipartisan consensus in honoring the life of Dolly. Dolly represented the very best of Tennessee, and guests from across the country and the world who come to visit should experience the wonder and welcome she embodied her entire life. I could not think of someone more deserving and more fitting.”

Gov. Lee grants clemency to 34, including man who served 17 years, was freed in 2023 and sent back in 2025

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee announced Thursday that he is granting executive clemency to 34 people, including pardons and one commutation.

Thomas Clardy is the only person listed as receiving a commutation. Clardy was convicted in 2007 for a 2005 shooting outside a Madison auto-repair shop. He was sentenced to life in prison and has maintained his innocence.

A federal judge overturned Clardy’s conviction in 2023 after finding he had received ineffective assistance of counsel, allowing him to leave prison after about 17 years. A federal appeals court later reversed that ruling, and Clardy returned to prison in August 2025.

“After thoroughly reviewing the merits of each case, I have decided to grant 34 individuals executive clemency,” Lee said. “Each individual case is unique and warranted consideration, and I thank the Board of Parole members for their thoughtful recommendations throughout this process.”

Clemency decisions are made in consultation with the Tennessee Board of Parole, though its recommendations are not binding. Applicants not included in this round remain eligible for future consideration.

A pardon is an official statement of forgiveness generally granted to someone who has completed a prison sentence and is no longer incarcerated. A commutation changes a sentence. The governor’s office said the commutation in this round is intended to expedite parole based on the “unique merits and track record of success” of the case.

The governor’s office listed the following clemency recipients:

  • Alexis Loudenslager — Pardon
  • Ashley Langford — Pardon
  • Charles McNabb — Pardon
  • Charles Murphy — Pardon
  • Christina Walters — Pardon
  • Christopher Pritchett — Pardon
  • Dedrick Dillard — Pardon
  • Donnie Sexton — Pardon
  • Elbert “Manuel” Hudson Jr. — Pardon
  • Hannah Heinze — Pardon
  • Israel Melton — Pardon
  • Ivan Minter — Pardon
  • Jamila Redditt — Pardon
  • Jeremy Mack — Pardon
  • Jill Dotson — Pardon
  • Justin Smith — Pardon
  • Kenneth Davis Jr. — Pardon
  • Kenretha Goldsmith — Pardon
  • Kristopher “Kris” Stewart — Pardon
  • Larry Boyd — Pardon
  • LaTonya Sawyer — Pardon
  • Margie Scales — Pardon
  • Mary Ann Eicke — Pardon
  • Michelle Arbogast — Pardon
  • Phillip Clark — Pardon
  • Ronald Haynes — Pardon
  • Sarah Biviano — Pardon
  • Scottye Starling — Pardon
  • Tamir Greenlee — Pardon
  • Thomas Clardy — Commutation
  • Todd Buchanan — Pardon
  • Toni Williams — Pardon
  • Zandra Daniel — Pardon
The Ultimate Reading List for Building a Successful Business

Let’s be real: many people feel that expensive business conferences are failing to deliver. Following recent social media backlash surrounding InvestFest—one of the largest gatherings for Black entrepreneurs and investors—many attendees left feeling like they paid top dollar for basic advice and empty networking.

With August being Black Business Month, it’s the perfect time to explore how Black entrepreneurs can unlock game-changing business gems from top experts through books—without breaking the bank on conference tickets.

For Building The Business

“How To Succeed in Business Without Being White” by Earl G. Graves, Sr.

“How to Succeed in Business Without Being White” offers a candid, experience-based guide for Black professionals and other underrepresented entrepreneurs navigating predominantly white corporate and business spaces. Earl G. Graves Sr. traces his journey from the son of a West Indian garment worker to a multimillionaire entrepreneur and the founder of Black Enterprise magazine.

Drawing on his own story alongside lessons from other successful Black professionals, Graves delivers strategies for career advancement and business ownership—emphasizing the vital importance of market differentiation and sustainable growth.

“It’s About Damn Time” by Arlan Hamilton

In “It’s About Damn Time,” respected venture capitalist Arlan Hamilton opens up about her remarkable journey from homelessness to Silicon Valley success. Throughout the book, she shares invaluable wisdom on breaking into the exclusive “boys’ club” of venture capital, creating investment opportunities for “underestimated founders”—including people of color and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs—and building a path to achieve your own dreams on your own terms.

The Mocha Manual to Turning Your Passion Into Profit” by Kimberly Seals-Allers

If you ever need guidance on turning your ideas into a business plan, Kimberly Seals-Allers has you covered. “The Mocha Manual to Turning Your Passion into Profit” gives insiders a step-by-step guide to turning a creative idea into a formal business plan, including finding the right operational licenses and hiring the right employees. The entrepreneur and journalist offers key strategies and shares advice from successful Black female entrepreneurs, including the founder of Carol’s Daughter, Lisa Price.

Success Never Smelled So Sweet: How I Followed My Nose and Found My Passion” by Lisa Price (with Hilary Beard)

Long before Carol’s Daughter became a household name and a pioneer in the natural hair and beauty industry, Lisa Price was crafting products right in her Brooklyn kitchen. “Success Never Smelled So Sweet” details how she scaled a personal passion project into one of the most recognizable Black-owned beauty empires in the country. It’s an essential read for entrepreneurs looking to turn their creative passion into a profitable business.

Related: Books By Black Authors We Can’t Wait to Read This Fall

“The DNA of Achievers: 10 Traits of Highly Successful Professionals” by Mathew Knowles

As the mastermind behind Destiny’s Child—one of the defining musical groups of our time—Mathew Knowles knows what it takes to build a brand from the ground up. In “The DNA of Achievers,” he breaks down the core traits that separate high achievers from the rest, including a relentless work ethic, calculated risk-taking, and surrounding yourself with excellence. It is an empowering read for entrepreneurs ready to embrace the discipline required for long-term success.

For Building Wealth

Get Good with Money” by Tiffany Aliche

In “Get Good with Money,” Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche delivers a practical roadmap for achieving financial stability—an essential tool for solopreneurs and early-stage founders looking to get their personal and business finances in order. Designed as a hands-on, workbook-style guide, the book walks readers through ten actionable steps toward financial wholeness, making it an indispensable resource for long-term entrepreneurial success.

“Savvy Tax Strategies for Small Business Owners: Master Bookkeeping and Tax Planning Strategies” by Atiya S. Brown, CPA

When building a business, keeping your company free of IRS issues is essential. To help founders navigate tax compliance, author Atiya S. Brown—a CPA, Chartered Accountant, and certified financial education instructor with over 18 years of experience in accounting and finance—outlines how to establish proper business structures, identify overlooked deductions, and implement proactive systems to keep your business running smoothly.

Black Fortunes: The Story of the First Six African Americans Who Survived Slavery and Became Millionaires” by Shomari Wills

Shomari Wills’ popular nonfiction book, “Black Fortunes,” chronicles the lives of the first six African Americans who survived slavery and earned personal fortunes of over one million dollars between 1830 and 1927. Aspiring entrepreneurs will gain a blueprint for capitalism and wealth-building strategies that serve as cheat codes for facing business adversity.

Learn From Black Business History

“Succeeding Against The Odds” by John H. Johnson

This timeless autobiography of John H. Johnson, founder of Johnson Publishing Company and the first African American on the Forbes 400 list, chronicles his rise from poverty in segregated Arkansas to building a media empire that included Ebony, Jet, and Negro Digest magazine.

It also details the practical business lessons and personal principles that created his success. Readers can use this as a playbook for actionable advice on entrepreneurship, sales, leadership, and overcoming systemic barriers like racism and lack of access to capital.

“Rise and Grind: Outperform, Outwork, and Outhustle Your Way to a More Successful and Rewarding Life” by Daymond John

“The Diary Of A CEO” podcast serves as an audio diary of Steven Bartlett’s own entrepreneurial journey and in-depth conversations with high-profile guests. Episodes include dialogues with CEOs, founders, and authors; it feels like a therapy session that aims to reveal the “untold truths” and “unlearned lessons” behind their great achievements. Listeners will gain leadership and team-building pointers, advice on marketing their personal brand, and practical business strategies.

“Black Tech Green Money” by Will Lucas

Justus Kelley’s Miss USA Win Is For Every Black Woman Choosing To Live By Her Own Rules
2026 Winners 41st Annual Stellar Awards

41st Annual Stellar Awards

 

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Category #1 ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Darrel Walls ~ Heart of Mine ~ Tyscot Records / Gumbo Studios

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Category #2 SONG OF THE YEAR

Promises (Live) ~ Alescia Knowles-Smith ~ EvoWorld Entertainment

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Category #3 MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Jonathan McReynolds ~ Still (Live) ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label

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Category #4 ALBERTINA WALKER FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

TIE | JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music & Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Live in New York ~ Independent

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Category #5 DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR

Lisa Knowles Smith & The Brown Singers ~ Revival: Live in Dallas ~ EvoWorld Entertainment

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Category #6 NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Ablaze ~ Ablaze ~ Independent

Click Here for All Winners
https://www.thestellarawards.com/2026-winners.html

GOSPEL RADIO OF THE YEAR WINNERS

SYNDICATED GOSPEL RADIO SHOW OF THE YEAR

Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell ~ Erica Campbell with Arlen “Griff” Griffin & Cheryl Jackson

TOP MARKET OF THE YEAR

WPZE Praise 102.5 ~ Atlanta

MEDIUM MARKET OF THE YEAR

WXHL 89.1 FM Reach Gospel Radio ~ Wilmington

SMALL MARKET OF THE YEAR

WWDA FM 101.9 ~ Clarksville

INTERNET STATION OF THE YEAR

WTRC Praise 98.3, https://live365.com/station/a33136

GOSPEL ANNOUNCER OF THE YEAR

Trey Nickelson ~ WBZF-FM – Glory 98.5

GOSPEL RADIO OF THE YEAR WINNERS SYNDICATED GOSPEL RADIO SHOW OF THE YEAR Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell ~ Erica Campbell with Arlen "Griff" Griffin & Cheryl Jackson TOP MARKET OF THE YEAR WPZE Praise 102.5 ~ Atlanta MEDIUM MARKET OF THE YEAR WXHL 89.1 FM Reach Gospel Radio ~ Wilmington SMALL MARKET OF THE YEAR WWDA FM 101.9 ~ Clarksville INTERNET STATION OF THE YEAR WTRC Praise 98.3, https://live365.com/station/a33136 GOSPEL ANNOUNCER OF THE YEAR Trey Nickelson ~ WBZF-FM – Glory 98.5 Stellar Awards

Like many others, Indiana has entered the data center race and is particularly attractive due to the availability of cheap land. NIPSCO, a monopoly utility that serves Gary, is leading the effort.

Thirty miles east of Chicago, a city remains in the dark. As of Monday, Aug. 24, more than 7,000 residents of Gary, Indiana, are without electricity. The outage followed severe storms, which began on Aug. 11 and caused deadly floods in the state that have killed at least seven people.

For two weeks, the people of Gary have been forced to weather the late summer heat without electricity. Many residents have taken to social media to express the direness of this situation.

But what happened in Gary wasn’t just Mother Nature’s doing. Gary residents didn’t just experience a freak weather event. They were victims of layers upon layers of systemic failures that left a vulnerable population to fend for themselves for far too long.

Black people make up nearly 80% of the city’s population of more than 67,000 residents. One third of the city lives in poverty. Marginalized groups being failed by systems in the wake of a natural disaster is no strange occurrence in America, but as our country’s cracks widen, tragedies like these seem more and more inevitable – even intentional.

For more than 50 years, Gary has borne the brunt of extreme deindustrialization and disinvestment that have left the city with few resources to meet the needs of its residents. Decades of disenfranchisement and neglect toward its population made Gary prime for the devastation we’re seeing now.

Hold power company, and data centers, accountable

Northern Indiana Public Service Co. (NIPSCO), a monopoly utility that Hoosiers pay to keep them powered through disasters, has apparently failed to protect its customers. A class-action lawsuit has been filed claiming inadequate vegetation management – and a possible misuse of funds for infrastructure and reliability improvements – led to the widespread blackout.

Like many other states, Indiana has entered the data center race and is particularly attractive due to the availability of cheap land. And NIPSCO is leading the effort.

In October, NIPSCO launched a spinoff company, GenCo, to shirk many of the regulatory proceedings typically required before power plants can be built in the state. NIPSCO claims this move will provide the copious energy that data centers require without increasing costs for customers. But anyone who’s been sentient during this data center epidemic should find that claim laughable.Unsurprisingly, customers say their power bills skyrocketed earlier this year, with some reportedly as high as $1,447 for one month. Luckily, NIPSCO boasted half a billion dollars in profits since January. If only the company would use that to improve infrastructure or the terrible working conditions that have union members referring to themselves as “slave laborers.”

What happened and is happening in Gary is no isolated incident. Many other areas in Northwest Indiana are still without power, and now Memphis, Tennessee, is going through a similar situation.

As data centers overload grids across the country, power outages like the ones we’re seeing will only become more frequent. Tech oligarchs and government officials will do anything to line their pockets and fulfill their artificial intelligence pipe dreams.

Reliable electricity, clean drinking water and the overall quality of life for some of the most underserved populations in our country are just collateral to them.

Instead, the powers that be would rather focus on a foreign war we’re losing and aiding our “ally” in committing a genocide. Even the military isn’t exempt from the government’s cruelty.

But there is still light in the darkness. The people of Gary have come together to help those in need. Food influencer Keith Lee, NBA player Tyrese Haliburton and the Salvation Army have helped distribute food, storm relief, cleaning supplies and community resources. World Central Kitchen has done its thing. Even the Chicago Bears have stepped up to fund relief for their neighbors.

When those above us turn a blind eye, it’s up to us to see each other.

Mayor Announces New Initiatives to Support Nashville’s Small Businesses

NASHVILLE – Mayor Freddie O’Connell today announced legislation to establish a new Legacy Business Program, create a Workforce Advancement Incentive Program, and expand Metro’s existing Property Investment Incentive Program—all designed to help Nashville’s small businesses grow, invest, and thrive.

Announced in his State of Metro address, these initiatives build on the O’Connell Administration’s commitment to strengthen quality of life for residents, make Nashville more affordable, and support the local businesses that shape the city’s culture and economy.

“Small and legacy businesses are the backbone of our communities,” said Mayor Freddie O’Connell. “They’re places of friendship and fellowship. They make us feel like we belong here. They’ve helped build a Nashville for Nashvillians, and they should have the opportunity to remain a part of its future.”

Legacy Business Program
The newly created Legacy Business Program will support small businesses that have operated in Nashville for 15 years or more and have become fixtures of their communities as they contribute to their neighborhood’s identity.

Program grants will cover areas essential to running a successful legacy business, such as modernizing operational infrastructure, planning for sustainability and resilience, reducing operational costs, investing in marketing, and more—resources that are often prohibitively costly for small businesses.

More than $300,000 in funding will be available in the first-year pilot, with additional contributors expected to increase the total throughout the year.

Workforce Advancement Incentive Program 

The Workforce Advancement Incentive Program will provide grants up to $10,000 to help small businesses recruit and retain talented employees by supporting continuing education for Nashville’s workforce.

Incentives will cover costs associated with a wide range of training programs that result in certifications awarded by both small business owners and accredited organizations.

“When businesses invest in their employees, opportunities expand, and the whole community benefits,” the Mayor said.

Expanded Property Investment Incentive Program
The Property Investment Incentive Program will now include commercial buildings valued at up to $2 million—doubling the previous threshold to create more community impact—and adds interior building improvements to the program, which before only covered exterior improvements.

Businesses can receive matching grants that reimburse 50 percent of construction or rehabilitation costs, up to $50,000.

 

“The age of a property shouldn’t be a barrier to a business’s success,” the Mayor said.

National Voices • Gospel Music • Inspiration

Nationally Syndicated Shows

Spend your Saturday with nationally recognized gospel personalities, uplifting music, artist interviews, inspiration and faith-centered entertainment on The Gospel Nashville.

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Get Up Mornings with Erica Campbell Saturdays 7 AM to 9 AM Nationally Syndicated
Saturday Morning

Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell

Saturdays • 7:00–9:00 AM

Start Saturday with uplifting gospel music, encouragement, celebrity conversations and the energetic inspiration of Erica Campbell.

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Gospel Traxx with Walt Baby Love Saturdays noon to 2 PM Nationally Syndicated
Saturday Afternoon

Gospel Traxx with Walt “Baby” Love

Saturdays • 12:00–2:00 PM

Enjoy gospel favorites, artist features and the unmistakable voice and broadcasting legacy of Walt “Baby” Love.

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