Today’s Communiqué – 2.7.23 – Today's Communiqué

1. “An Open Letter To Senator Dan Sullivan And Other Politicians Who Want To End Affirmative Action”, by Wendell Griffen

2. Think Rubix Elevates Rhonna-Rose Akama-Makia to Managing Director A Champion for Diversity and Women in Leadership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 7th, 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Think Rubix, 2022 Minority Business of the Year, announces the appointment of Rhonna-Rose Akama-Makia to Managing Director. A trailblazer and champion for women in leadership, Rhonna-Rose brings nearly two decades of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, and management, expanding the company’s aptitude for multicultural engagement campaigns, and its diversity and inclusion practice.

Rhonna-Rose, a Second-Generation African Immigrant, is passionate about igniting engagement, motivation, and innovation in diverse teams. She has a track record of success identifying and dismantling racial and gender barriers, coaching thousands of individuals across the country, empowering multicultural and intergenerational leaders, and striking a balance between organizational goals and community expectations to drive results that truly matter.

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3. Philander Smith College Hosts Its Philander Forward Film Series

4. Special Election – City of North Little Rock Library System Millage

5. OneStone Productions Hosts R&B Crooner Bobby Valentino in Concert

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6. FOX 16 News Anchor, Ashlei King, Announced as “Master of Ceremonies” for R&B Legend Larry Dodson’s “Day of Distinction” Celebration at Capitol

For immediate release: February 6, 2023

(Little Rock, AR) – FOX 16 news anchor, Ashlei King, has been announced to preside as Master of Ceremonies for the “Larry Dodson Day of Distinction”, an event to be held at the Arkansas State Capitol, honoring R&B legend Larry Dodson, long-time lead singer of the multi-million record selling R&B band, “The Bar-Kays”, as Arkansas celebrates “Black History Month”, a time in which we recognize the history and contributions of African-Americans.

Joining the FOX 16 news team in July of 2018, King received a Regional and National Edward R. Murrow Award in 2022, as well as a Regional Emmy nomination for her work with the station. She is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, and serves on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas.

Mr. Dodson will also be honored with the prestigious “Arkansas Traveler” award, which will be presented to him by State Representative Matt Duffield.

Dodson’s memoir, “And the Band Plays On: The Life Story of Larry Dodson of The Bar-Kays”, tells of Dodson’s early days with The Bar-Kays, as well as the band’s rise to prominence, selling millions of records around the world with 20 top ten singles, 30 albums and numerous gold and platinum records. Autographed copies of “And the Band Plays On” will be available at the event.

The “Larry Dodson Day of Distinction” celebration starts at 12 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 13^th in the State Capitol Rotunda.

For more information on Larry Dodson, please visit:

http://www.thelarrydodson.com/

7. Annual For the Love of Art Music Celebration Honors Jazz Legend’s Birthday and Memory

Little Rock, AR – Art Porter Music Education’s (APME) annual For the Love of Art Series, recognizes Art Porter, Sr. with two special events in Little Rock, featuring an all-star lineup of talented local musicians, as well as Minors in Music, Friday, February 17, 2023, 7 p.m. at the AC Hotel by Marriott, 201 W. Capitol, and Sunday, February 19, 2023, 6 p.m. at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 2501 Main St.

Friday, February 17^th, the talented Minors in Music students and their Mentors in Music will pay tribute to the late Porter during the month he would have observed his 89th birthday. The celebration continues Sunday, February 19^th with performances by the Art Porter Singers and G-Music (former members of APME’s Minors in Music program), including local American Idol contender Tania (Nia Renee) Kelley.

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