Black History Archives - The Truth Seekers Journal

Farming Justice: John Boyd’s 35-Year Fight for Land, Legacy and Equality

The National Black Farmers Association’s 35th Conference in Birmingham honored John Boyd Jr.’s legacy, uniting farmers nationwide to reclaim land, legacy, and economic justice.

By Milton Kirby | Birmingham, AL | November 3, 2025

The air in Birmingham felt like history turning its own soil—just right for a gathering of people who understand the language of the land. Inside the conference hall, rows of worn cowboy hats, Sunday dresses, and seed-company caps filled the seats. Farmers came from every corner of the country—Alabama, West Virginia, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, Virginia, Oklahoma, and Texas. Some arrived by pickup, others by bus or plane, but all came for one reason: to celebrate 35 years of the National Black Farmers Association and the man who has never stopped fighting for them, Dr. John W. Boyd Jr.

The theme for the two-day gathering said it plain: “ReClaiming, ReGaining & ReGenerating Our Farms.” But what unfolded in those rooms was more than a conference. It was a reunion of faith and endurance—an unbroken line stretching from the sharecroppers of yesterday to the land stewards of today. It was family—farm boots and Sunday shoes, handshakes that turned into hugs, stories that started with the weather and ended with survival.

Grounded in the Work

Across two full days, the energy never dipped. Workshops buzzed with talk of farm loans, USDA programs, and the fine print that too often traps small farmers. Between sessions on farm credit, USDA programs, and cooperative models, farmers swapped lessons about soil testing, irrigation, and the art of keeping a small operation alive when fuel costs rise faster than the price of corn, cotton, beef, or soybeans.

At one table, a USDA outreach officer explained disaster-relief programs to a group of farmers. At another, a veteran rancher shared tips on protecting heirs’ property and forming family LLCs. Every conversation echoed one unspoken truth—knowledge is the new harvest.

Dr. Trina D. Brown, a health and wellness strategist, emphasized that the message was just as much about the people as the land. “We have to heal ourselves while we heal our soil,” she said, urging farmers to protect their mental health as fiercely as their crops.

Chaplain Eve Priester delivered a spirit-filled, inspirational prayer unlike any other. “Farming is God’s ministry in real time,” she said. “We plant, we nurture, and we believe in the harvest.” You could feel the amen in the air.

The Boyd Legacy

Mr Priester a hay farmer traveled from MS

When John W. Boyd Jr. stepped to the podium, applause broke like thunder. Some rose to their feet; others simply bowed their heads in respect. Boyd, a fourth-generation farmer from Baskerville, Virginia, has carried this fight for decades—from the long legal battles of Pigford v. Glickman to more recent struggles for debt relief and USDA reform.

“Black farmers, we’ve got to get to know one another,” he said. “Do business with each other. Build something together.”

His words landed heavy because everyone knew what he’s carried. Boyd reminded the audience that more than 12 million acres once owned by Black families have been lost—taken by discrimination, bureaucracy, or sheer exhaustion.

Behind the quiet strength of his voice was the memory of his father, John Wesley Boyd Sr., who taught him the oldest truth in farming: “Be good to the land, and the land will be good to you.”

That lesson has guided the NBFA since its founding in the early 1990s—through courtrooms, congressional hearings, and countless farm visits across America.

Faces of the Movement

The conference lineup reflected the diversity and endurance of Black and Native farmers.

Kara Brewer Boyd, NBFA Program Director, President of the Association of American Indian Farmers, and wife of John Boyd, spoke about cross-cultural solidarity and the shared struggle of land-based people. An enrolled member of the Lumbee Tribe, she reminded the audience that “land is identity—and identity is power.”

Boyd offered tips and techniques so practical and powerful that attendees described them as “nuggets of gold,” carefully pocketed to take home and put to work.

Nick and Tonya Dangerfield, dedicated Realtors serving the Dallas–Fort Worth area, focus on empowering underserved clients in Texas and Oklahoma to purchase, retain, and sell property with confidence. The couple is also cultivating a family farm in East Texas, building legacy wealth for their children.

Jolene Beaumont Whiteclay, with 46 years of experience as a dedicated farmer and rancher, is deeply rooted in her community and heritage. Currently serving as a Health Systems Specialist with the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Indian Health Service, she balances professional commitments with managing a thriving 3,000-acre ranch alongside her three sons. A proud member of the Crow Tribe of Montana, Jolene is a third-generation rancher continuing her family’s legacy.

Charles “Chuck” Baldwin has dedicated more than 40 years to cross-cultural work, primarily in Western and Central Africa. His career has included public speaking, fundraising, teaching, leadership development, mentoring, and building relationships across national and ethnic lines. For the past twelve years, Baldwin has served as the Special Populations Outreach Coordinator (SPOC) for the National AgrAbility Project at Purdue University. He collaborates closely with Extension professionals from 1890 and 1994 land-grant universities to expand support for diverse farming communities.

Every speaker’s story carried the same rhythm—loss, endurance, renewal. Through it all, the NBFA banner hung behind them, bold in green and gold, a reminder of how far they’ve come.

Honoring the Struggle

During the awards ceremony, Boyd presented special honors to those whose service has strengthened the movement.

Lifetime Achievement Award – Adrian Boyd, a decorated Army veteran of Operation Desert Storm and brother of John W. Boyd Jr., was recognized for his advocacy in the In Re Black Farmers Class Action Lawsuit. He played an instrumental role in securing passage of the 2010 Reclamation Act, signed into law by President Barack Obama—a beacon of hope for Black farmers who had suffered from systemic discrimination at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The act awarded $1.25 billion in restitution to those farmers.

Chairman’s Award – Andre P. Barlow, Esq., longtime NBFA legal counsel and former U.S. Department of Justice attorney, was honored for his unwavering commitment to justice. A former trial attorney with the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division, Barlow has spent years working to ensure fairness in the very systems that once failed Black farmers. His partnership with the NBFA reflects a deep commitment to civil rights, economic opportunity, and the belief that every farmer deserves a fair chance to thrive.

Family Farmer of the Year – George C. Roberts Jr., founder of Circle R Ranch in Oklahoma and a proud Seminole Freedman, spoke of stewardship, heritage, and the sacred duty to honor ancestors through the soil they once worked. Roberts was recognized for decades of ethical farming and for his advocacy for children with disabilities through his community foundation.

Farmer of the Year – Zachary Morse, a cattleman from Nelson County, Virginia, brought the crowd to its feet. He shared how his family’s Roundhouse Farm has grown into a 200-acre operation that now provides 80/20 processed beef for hamburgers and meals served at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. His pride was quiet but steady.

As each name was called, the applause felt like gratitude paid forward. These were not just honorees—they were field generals in a long campaign for dignity and fairness.

The Work Continues

The closing session turned toward what’s next: youth engagement, policy reform, and land reclamation. Plans were laid for new training partnerships with universities and 1890 land-grant institutions, along with continued outreach through the NBFA’s women’s and Native farmer networks.

Boyd called for unity over rivalry. “We can’t do this work divided,” he said. “The future of Black farming depends on us doing business with one another—buying from, selling to, and standing up for each other.”

For two days, Birmingham became more than a meeting place. It became a crossroads of memory and mission. Farmers traded phone numbers and promised to stay in touch. Some left with new tools and grant information; others left with something even deeper—a sense that they were part of a living legacy.

The land is still rich. The people are still here. And the fight—for dignity, for ownership, for the soul of Black agriculture—is far from over.

The National Black Farmers Association Sets Course for 2025 Birmingham Conference

“Our Soul Is Not for Sale” – Big Bethel Rally Draws Atlanta Together

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“Our Soul Is Not for Sale” – Big Bethel Rally Draws Atlanta Together

Atlanta’s mayors and church leaders rally at Big Bethel AME, vowing to defend diversity, equity, and inclusion programs amid Trump’s federal funding threats.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | November 1, 2025 On a cool Friday morning inside Big Bethel AME Church, sunlight poured through stained glass where freedom once found its voice. From that pulpit — the same one that carried Dr. King’s thunder and John Lewis’s call for good trouble — came a new rallying cry: “The soul of Atlanta is not for sale.” Mayor Andre Dickens stood with nearly every living Black mayor in city history — Andrew Young, Shirley Franklin, Bill Campbell, Kasim Reed — and Valerie Jackson, wife of the late Mayor Maynard Jackson. Together they filled the sanctuary with memory, defiance, and faith.

A City That Won’t Bow

They came to answer a challenge from Washington — a Trump administration order threatening to choke off federal dollars from cities that keep diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs alive. Billions for housing, airport work, and BeltLine projects hang in the balance. But the crowd at Big Bethel didn’t come to talk fear. They came to talk faith. “We are gathered here to rekindle the spirit of our city — to remind one another that courage, unity, and truth still live within us,” said former councilman Jabari Simama, now helping to lead the new Soul of Atlanta Coalition. “Our mission today is clear: to bring people together, share knowledge, and demonstrate that when we act with purpose and faith, we can change the course of our community. We can push back against forces that seek to divide, distract, and destroy us.” “Atlanta was built by people who refused to dream small. We will never deny the values that have not only made this city great, but made it just.”

A Legacy Worth More Than Money

Atlanta has already paid a price for its convictions — forfeiting $37.5 million in airport funds this summer rather than gut its minority-contracting program. “Our soul is not for sale,” declared Elder Toni Belin Ingram of the AME Church, her voice rising over the applause.

Mayor Dickens called the fight what it is: another Goliath moment. “Goliath doesn’t stand a chance in Atlanta,” he said. “We’ve slayed bears. We’ve slayed lions. Been there. Done that. Got the notes. Got the t-shirt and some of the scars.” His office later said the city is still reviewing the legal path forward, but his tone in the church left little doubt: the mayor intends to stand firm.

Where the Story Began

It was Maynard Jackson — Atlanta’s first Black mayor — who planted the seed of economic fairness back in the 1970s. His Equal Business Opportunity program forced open the door for Black-owned firms to compete for city contracts. Washington noticed — and copied it. “This is where it all began,” said Ambassador Andrew Young, looking over the packed pews. “These ideas didn’t come from Washington to us. They came from us to Washington.” Valerie Jackson smiled softly at the mention of her husband’s name. “Maynard’s policies of inclusion became a model for the nation,” she said. “We will not allow the principles of fairness and justice to be rolled back.”

A Coalition of Courage

From Shirley Franklin to Kasim Reed, the lineup at Big Bethel looked like a living timeline of Atlanta’s Black leadership. Pastor Jonathan C. Augustine — or “Pastor Jay” — reminded everyone why they were there. “Your presence here says we know what’s happening,” he said. “An autocratic leader is targeting blue cities led by Black mayors. And yet here we stand.” The new Soul of Atlanta Coalition plans to spend the next year gathering stories, uplifting minority-owned businesses, and organizing pushback against attacks on DEI and affirmative-action programs.

Standing in the Gap

Even as City Hall weighs its legal moves, Dickens said the work of serving people continues — especially with the federal shutdown straining families. “We’re spending time feeding the least, the last, the lost,” he said. The Atlanta Community Food Bank has launched a $5 million emergency plan to replace lost SNAP benefits, aiming to distribute six million pounds of food in four weeks through 700 local partners. “In tough times,” Dickens said, “we see the true spirit of Atlanta — compassion, connection, and courage.”

The Thread That Holds Us

From MARTA’s leadership recently reaffirming its commitment to disadvantaged businesses to the airport’s quiet determination to keep inclusion alive, the thread that runs through Atlanta is the same one Maynard Jackson spun fifty years ago: shared opportunity. “Diversity isn’t a program — it’s our way of life,” said Ambassador Young. “And it’s worked pretty well.” Related articles MARTA Job Fair Set for Nov. 6 – Offering Competitive Pay and Benefits WIC and SNAP Funds Halted: Shutdown Deepens Food Insecurity Crisis

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MacKenzie Scott: A Philanthropy of the Spirit in an Age of Abandonment

By Stacy M. Brown | Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent

There are moments in history when a single act of generosity reveals the moral decay of an entire nation. MacKenzie Scott’s $38 million gift to Alabama State University, the largest in its 158-year history, is such a moment. It is not merely a financial transaction, nor the casual benevolence of the wealthy. It is a moral indictment against a society that has grown indifferent to the suffering of its Black citizens, against a government that starves their schools, and against a class of newly rich who have forgotten the communal obligations of success.

Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr., the university’s president, called it a defining moment for Alabama State, and indeed it is. His words ring with the gratitude of those who have built excellence in the face of deprivation. “Ms. Scott’s generosity affirms Alabama State University’s reputation as a catalyst for excellence and innovation in higher education,” he said. But her act is more than affirmation. It is a resurrection, and a call to remember that Black institutions remain the crucibles of America’s moral and intellectual power. In recent weeks, Scott has dispersed her fortune with quiet conviction. Seventy million to the United Negro College Fund to strengthen endowments across thirty-seven member schools; sixty-three million to Morgan State University, her second gift to that campus in less than five years; and one hundred and one million combined to Morgan State and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in a span of days.

Her giving, unshackled by stipulations or vanity, stands in luminous contrast to an era defined by greed and indifference. The plutocracy that dominates modern life often extracts from the many to enrich the few. Scott reverses that equation. She does not donate to dominate. She gives to repair. Her wealth, born of corporate conquest, has become the instrument of restoration. It stands as a redemption, perhaps, of what that very system has broken. One cannot ignore the symbolism of her actions. At a time when the federal government withholds support from historically Black institutions, when affirmative action has been dismantled, and when diversity programs are vilified, a white woman from the highest ranks of privilege has become the single most consistent benefactor of Black education in the nation. It is as though she has seen, from her rarefied vantage point, what America refuses to see: that the progress of its Black citizens is not a charity, but the measure of its own civilization.

Yet even as she gives, others remain silent. The silence of Black wealth resounds across the land. It is a silence that mocks the very principles of uplift once preached from our pulpits and classrooms. Attorney Benjamin Crump’s call to the wealthy—“If you’ve been blessed, you got to pass the blessing on”—echoes unanswered. The great sons and daughters of our race who have ascended to fortune, those who built empires on the faith of our people, turn their eyes away from the institutions that birthed them. They forget the hands that lifted them from obscurity. They forget that their wealth is not solely their own, but part of the moral economy of a people who have suffered together and triumphed together. The Black Press, like the HBCUs, stands as an unbroken monument to endurance. It has spoken truth through lynchings, wars, and betrayals. Yet it now faces extinction not from white suppression alone, but from the neglect of its own. “If the Black Press falls,” Crump warned, “so does the record of our struggle, our triumph, and our faith.”

Scott’s philanthropy, then, is not simply about money. It is about memory. The moral memory of a nation that has forgotten the debt it owes to those it once enslaved and now ignores. In her giving, she restores something elemental, the belief that one’s prosperity is meaningless if it does not lift others. W.E.B. Du Bois wrote of the “double consciousness” that afflicts the Negro in America, the struggle to see oneself through the eyes of a world that despises you. Today, the irony is reversed. America must learn to see itself through the eyes of those it has wronged. MacKenzie Scott, for all her privilege, seems to have glimpsed that truth. She gives the impression that she has looked into the soul of the republic and found it wanting.

Her actions do not absolve the sins of this nation. They reveal them. And in revealing them, they offer a path, not of atonement, but of accountability. For every dollar she gives to rebuild a school, there are a thousand more that others with power might give but will not. One woman has chosen conscience over complacency. The question that remains is whether the rest of America—Black and white alike—will choose to follow her example or remain comfortable in the quiet decay of its own moral poverty.

Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Commits $50 Million to Atlanta’s HBCUs

MacKenzie Scott Gift to Howard University

MacKenzie Scott Gift to NC A&T State University

MacKenzie Scott Gift to Prairie View A&M University

MacKenzie Scott Gift to Bowie State University

MacKenzie Scott Gift to Philander Smith University

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Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing Scores Major Win in NASCAR Antitrust Fight

A federal judge sides with Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing in its antitrust lawsuit, dismissing NASCAR’s “cartel” counterclaim and reshaping the sport’s power balance ahead of trial.

By Milton Kirby | Charlotte, NC | October 29, 2025

A Legal Showdown in Charlotte

Michael Jordan’s racing team, 23XI Racing, and Front Row Motorsports have not only made headlines on the track but also in federal court. On October 28, 2025, they scored a major victory when U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell dismissed NASCAR’s counterclaim accusing them of operating as a cartel.

The ruling marks a turning point in one of the most significant legal battles in modern motorsports. What began as a disagreement over how NASCAR governs its teams has evolved into a test of how much control a sports sanctioning body should hold over its competitors.

Background: Why the Teams Sued NASCAR

The lawsuit was filed in October 2024 by 23XI Racing — co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin — and Front Row Motorsports, owned by Bob Jenkins. Their claim: NASCAR’s charter system and business practices create an illegal monopoly.

Under that charter system, each Cup Series team holds a “charter” guaranteeing entry in every race and a share of revenue. The teams allege that NASCAR uses the system to limit competition, suppress team values, and maintain full control over television and sponsorship income.

Out of 15 Cup Series organizations, only two — 23XI and Front Row — refused to sign the new 2025 charter agreement after two years of tense negotiations. They called the deal “take-it-or-leave-it,” claiming it stripped teams of long-term equity.

The lawsuit names NASCAR Holdings, Inc. and CEO Jim France as defendants, accusing them of violating federal antitrust laws by dictating terms that block other sanctioning bodies or rival leagues from competing in top-tier stock-car racing.

NASCAR Fights Back — and Loses

In March 2025, NASCAR countersued. Its attorneys claimed that Curtis Polk — Jordan’s longtime business manager and co-owner of 23XI — coordinated with other teams to pressure NASCAR for a better charter deal.

NASCAR’s counterclaim described the teams as an “illegal cartel” that allegedly:

Boycotted meetings of the Team Owners Council,
Tried to interfere with NASCAR’s ongoing media-rights negotiations, and
Refused to negotiate individually.

The sanctioning body argued that this group behavior harmed competition and violated the Sherman Antitrust Act.

But Judge Bell didn’t see it that way. In his October 28 order, he granted summary judgment in favor of the teams, effectively tossing NASCAR’s counterclaim.

He wrote that NASCAR failed to show any “unreasonable restraint of trade” and that the meeting boycott “appeared to have little impact on the competitive landscape.” In other words, while the teams’ joint stance may have frustrated NASCAR, it did not harm competition itself — the key legal test for any antitrust violation.

Even if NASCAR experienced economic loss, the court said, that isn’t the same as harm to the marketplace.

What the Dismissal Means

By removing the “cartel” accusation, Judge Bell has simplified the case heading to trial. The focus now returns to the original question: Does NASCAR’s business model violate antitrust law?

For 23XI and Front Row, this is a big win. It clears away a major distraction and gives their attorneys — led by veteran sports lawyer Jeffrey Kessler — a cleaner path to argue that NASCAR’s charter system is anti-competitive.

“This ruling only reaffirms my clients’ unwavering pursuit of a more fair and equitable sport,” Kessler said after the decision.

NASCAR’s legal team struck a different tone, saying it “respects the court’s decision, though we respectfully disagree with its reasoning,” and indicated it may appeal the dismissal.

The Charter System at the Center of It All

Created in 2016, NASCAR’s charter system was meant to give teams stability — a guarantee that, like franchises in the NFL or NBA, they could count on starting spots and predictable income.

But the plaintiffs argue that NASCAR turned that system into a control mechanism. Charters can be revoked or limited in transferability, giving the sanctioning body final say over who can buy, sell, or race.

Teams say this suppresses their market value and leaves them dependent on NASCAR’s approval for everything from sponsorships to media exposure. Without reforms, they claim, no independent racing team can ever build the long-term wealth enjoyed by teams in other professional sports.

That imbalance is magnified by the way charters are distributed. Under the new 2025 charter agreement, most teams are limited to a maximum of three charters. However, powerhouse organizations like Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing were grandfathered in and allowed to keep four.

According to Jayski’s NASCAR Silly Season Site and RacingNews.co, this exception allows Hendrick to continue fielding four chartered cars — the No. 5, No. 9, No. 24, and No. 48 entries — while new or expanding teams are capped. That rule not only preserves historical dominance but also illustrates the inequity newer teams like 23XI are fighting to change.

Inside the Courtroom: Key Legal Milestones

The Original Complaint (October 2024) – Filed in Charlotte’s federal court, the complaint alleged that NASCAR controls nearly every aspect of top-tier stock-car racing, from event scheduling to licensing and broadcast rights.
Preliminary Injunction (December 2024) – Judge Bell temporarily allowed 23XI and Front Row to operate under existing charters while litigation continued.
Fourth Circuit Appeal (June 2025) – An appellate panel vacated an earlier injunction, emphasizing the need for a full trial on the merits.
Counterclaim Dismissed (October 2025) – The most recent order, striking down NASCAR’s accusation of cartel behavior.

The case is now scheduled for trial on December 1, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Both sides have agreed to strict pre-trial conduct rules to keep the proceedings civil — including bans on referencing unrelated controversies like former NASCAR CEO Brian France’s 2018 resignation.

The Bigger Legal Questions

The trial will revolve around several key issues:

Market Definition: Are we talking about “top-tier stock-car racing” (the Cup Series alone) or the entire motorsports industry? The smaller the defined market, the stronger the monopoly claim.
Competition vs. Competitor Harm: Antitrust law protects the market, not individual companies. The teams must prove NASCAR’s structure hurts competition itself — for example, by preventing new entrants or suppressing fair prices.
Revenue and Negotiation Power: Who should control the billions generated by television rights, sponsorships, and licensing? Teams say NASCAR hoards too much of that revenue and dictates how it’s divided.
Statute of Limitations: NASCAR argues that some alleged conduct happened more than four years ago and falls outside the antitrust window.

How the court answers those questions could reshape not only NASCAR’s future but also the economics of all U.S. motorsports.

What’s at Stake

If 23XI and Front Row win, the case could force NASCAR to overhaul its entire charter and revenue model. That might include:

Allowing greater transfer rights for team charters,
Sharing a larger portion of media and sponsorship revenue, and
Giving teams a stronger voice in governance.

For NASCAR, losing could mean ceding some of the control it has exercised since its founding in 1948.

Even a negotiated settlement — which remains possible — might compel NASCAR to rewrite its agreements in ways that permanently rebalance power between teams and the league.

Cultural and Business Impact

Beyond the courtroom, this case carries symbolic weight. Michael Jordan’s entry into NASCAR was already historic: a Black majority owner stepping into a sport long criticized for its lack of diversity.

Now, his team is challenging the structure of the very organization he joined. It’s not just about money — it’s about transparency, fairness, and inclusion in a sport trying to modernize its image.

Business outlets like Sports Business Journal and The Athletic note that Jordan’s leadership brings credibility and global attention to a sport seeking new fans. This lawsuit, though risky, positions him as both a competitor and a reformer.

For many team owners, the outcome will determine whether NASCAR evolves into a franchise-style league with shared prosperity — or remains a top-down entity where teams compete for limited leverage.

The Road Ahead

The December 1 trial will likely stretch into early 2026. Legal experts expect fireworks: expert testimony on sports economics, closed-door contract disclosures, and possibly new revelations about NASCAR’s internal decision-making.

Both sides continue mediation talks, but after this week’s ruling, 23XI and Front Row hold the momentum.

Whatever the verdict, this case is already changing the conversation around how America’s biggest racing league does business.

Shadow Ball: Learning More About Negro League History

Dear Shadow Ball: How many players have been inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, based on their play in the Negro Leagues? – Curious Curt, International Falls, MN

Dear Curious Curt: Thanks for that question … there are 28 players, listed below with position and year inducted), inducted into the Hall of Fame based on their performance in the Negro Leagues.

Satchel Paige, P, 1971 Ray Dandridge, 3b, 1987 Andy Cooper, p, 2006

Josh Gibson, c, 1972 Leon Day, 1995 Pete Hill, of, 2006

Buck Leonard, 1b, 1972 Willie Foster. P, 1996 Biz Mackey, c, 2006

Monte Irvin, OF, 1973 Willie Wells, ss, 1997 Jose Mendez, p, 2006

Cool Papa Bell, OF, 1974 Bullet Joe Rogan, p, 1998 Louis Santop, c, 2006

Judy Johnson, 3b, 1975 Mule Suttles, 1b, 2006 Smokey Joe Williams, p, 1999

Oscar Charleston, OF, 1976 Turkey Stearnes, of, 2000 Ben Taylor, ib, 2006

Martin Dihigo, 2b, 1977 John Henry Lloyd, ss, 1977 Cristobal Torriente, of, 2006

John Henry Lloyd, ss, 1977 Hilton Smith, p, 2001 Jud Wilson, 3b, 2006

Ray Brown, p, 2006

The real question, for me at least, is “are 28 Negro League player inductees sufficient to accurately tell the story of Negro League baseball in the first half of the twentieth century?” To answer that we need to add some context.

CONTEXTUAL BACKGROUND

On December 16, 2020, Major League Baseball announced that it was correcting a longtime oversight in the game’s history by officially recognizing seven specific Negro Leagues operating between 1920-1948 as “Major Leagues”.
Since April 15, 1947 (the day Major League Baseball integrated) 42% of all Hall of Fame players debuting have been players of color (i.e., would have been Negro Leaguers prior to that date)l
In his 1994 baseball documentary, Ken Burns states that Black baseball stars defeated White Major League stars at least 309(70%) times in 438 games … this, of course, is “oral history” but all 7 compilations of games between “so called” Negro League and “so called” Major League teams give the Negro Leaguers the edge with an average winning percentage of 58%.
Many Major League baseball players had been effusive in their assessment and praise of Negro League players prior to the integration of the game including Hall of Famers Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, John McGraw, Joe DiMaggio, Dizzy Dean, Bob Feller, Charlie Gehringer, Rogers Hornsby, and Leo Durocher.
(This would be interesting but not probative but for the above four bullets) Between 1920-1948 the slash lines for both the two Major Leagues and the seven Negro Leagues are virtually identical. A slash line includes batting average, on base percentage, and slugging percentage. The seven Negro Leagues slash line was .272, .335, .376 while the two Major Leagues (AL & NL) was .276, .340, .389.
It must be noted that – while there are 28 players in the Hall for play in the Negro Leagues – there are 125 players in the Hall who earned induction for play in the Major Leagues during baseball’s segregated era prior to 1947.

Given the above bullet points I hope it is obvious to all of us that the current ratio of Major League Hall of Famers prior to 1947 to Negro League Hall of Famers from that same period does not match the record, opinion and honors captured in the above bullets. Clearly, 28 does not do a good job of educating the public. How many Negro Leaguers should there be inducted in Cooperstown? I will close by sharing my opinion and will defend it later in this series if reader interest warrants. In my opinion there should be somewhere between 60 to 80 Negro League players inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.

Last week’s Shadowball Significa Question

“Who was the first 20^th century player to break the color barrier and get into the major leagues, two bonus questions, what year, what team? A third bonus question, how long did he play in the majors? David Nivens, parts unknown, provided the following: When I was kid, my baseball coach told me that Jackie Robinson was the first black player to enter the Major Leagues in 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers. He played 10 years in the Major Leagues. Thank you, David I very much appreciated your participation, and your including your father’s assistance; my dad provided me that same information when I was a kid.

The Shadowball Significa Question of the Week

What was the name of Atlanta’s most prolific franchise (in terms of years in the league) in the Negro Leagues?

Ted Knorr is a Negro Leagues history expert and longtime SABR member, known for his trivia wins and founding the Jerry Malloy Conference and Commemorative Nights. You can send questions to shadowball@truthseekersjournal.com or Shadow Ball, 3904 N Druid Hills Rd, Ste 179, Decatur, GA 30033

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Three Swings to Forever: How Reggie Jackson Became Mr. October

Reggie Jackson’s three homers in 1977 sealed his “Mr. October” legend. From Oakland to New York, and now STEM philanthropy, his story blends power, pressure, and purpose.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | October 18, 2025

A night that named a legend

On Oct. 18, 1977, Reggie Jackson stepped into Yankee Stadium history. He saw three first-pitch strikes. He launched all three into the seats. The third flew to deep center, off the black batter’s eye. The Yankees clinched the World Series. The crowd roared “Reg-GIE!” and a nickname stuck forever: Mr. October.

That moment didn’t come easy. Jackson had joined New York after a stormy year in Baltimore. The Yankees clubhouse ran hot: big egos, bigger expectations. Manager Billy Martin benched him in the ALCS, then called his number late. Jackson answered with a key RBI single. He carried that momentum into the World Series—five home runs in the final three games, eight RBI, and a record 25 total bases. He owned October.

Built for big stages

Reginald “Reggie” Martinez Jackson played 21 MLB seasons. He starred for the Kansas City/Oakland A’s, Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, and California Angels. He was a 14-time All-Star, the 1973 AL MVP, a five-time World Series champion, and a two-time World Series MVP. He finished with 563 home runs and a reputation for rising when it mattered most.

Reggie Jackson Jersey – Courtesy Wikipedia

He also led the league in strikeouts—proof that taking big swings cuts both ways. But teams got better around him. Across two decades, Jackson’s clubs finished first 11 times and endured only two losing seasons. The A’s won three straight titles from 1972–74. The Yankees won back-to-back in 1977–78. The Angels won division crowns in 1982 and 1986. New York retired his No. 44 in 1993; Oakland retired his No. 9 in 2004. He entered the Hall of Fame in 1993.

The early fight: talent, tests, and grit

Jackson grew up in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, the son of Martinez Jackson, a former Negro Leagues infielder. At Cheltenham High, Reggie starred in four sports. Football nearly ended his athletic career—neck fractures, weeks in the hospital, a bleak prognosis. He came back anyway.

Major programs recruited him for football. He chose Arizona State, aiming to play both football and baseball. The pros soon called. In the 1966 draft, the A’s took him second overall. He signed, climbed quickly, and debuted in 1967. Two years later he clubbed 47 homers and chased Ruth and Maris for a summer.

Oakland greatness, Oakland grit

With the A’s, Jackson helped build a dynasty. From 1971–74, Oakland stacked division titles and won three straight World Series. He hit, he ran, he argued, he won. He blasted a transformer with a thunderous 1971 All-Star homer in Detroit. He stole home to help clinch the 1972 AL pennant—tearing his hamstring in the process and missing the Series the A’s still won.

Oakland was talent and turbulence. Owner Charlie Finley staged a “Mustache Day.” Teammates brawled. Arbitration battles made headlines. Through it all, Jackson produced—254 homers in nine A’s seasons—and forced the sport to deal with a star who wouldn’t shrink.

The Making of Mr. October

New York magnified everything. The media glare was constant. Quotes cut both ways. A June 1977 dugout confrontation with Billy Martin played out on national TV. Yet when the stakes rose, Jackson delivered. He crushed a walk-off-style dagger against Boston in a tense September race. Then came that three-homer masterpiece in Game 6. In 1978, he did it again—homers when needed most, a second straight title, and a legend cemented.

Legacy: power, pressure, contradictions

Jackson’s career tells a full American sports story. He won big. He failed big. He spoke his mind. He shouldered heat others couldn’t. He made teammates and cities better. He was the first to hit 100 home runs for three different franchises. He stacked rings and records while carrying the burdens of fame, race, and expectation in a volatile era.

Giving back: the Mr. October Foundation

After baseball, Jackson advised the Yankees for years, then joined the Astros as a special advisor in 2021. Off the field, he leaned into service. The Mr. October Foundation focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM education and career pathways for underserved youth. The mission is practical and urgent: connect students to real-world skills in engineering, advanced manufacturing, medical fields, and the trades.

Reggie Jackson Classroom – Courtesy Mr. October Foundation

Since 2014, the foundation has partnered with STEM 101, launching first in the Bronx (2015) and expanding to Detroit, Oakland, and St. Louis. The program’s three pillars—Create & Innovate, Career Pathways, andSolutions-Based Learning—turn curiosity into competence. The outcomes are clear: stronger post-secondary readiness, a visible path to good jobs, and a rising interest in STEM compared to peers. It’s the same formula that made Mr. October: preparation, courage, and timely impact.

Remembering where he stood—and stands

Jackson has always been candid about the business and the bruise of the game—about race, pressure, and the costs of being first in certain rooms. At baseball’s Rickwood Field tribute in 2024, he spoke bluntly about the insults and exclusions he faced early in his career. Those memories still cut. Yet his story arcs toward construction: hitting through hecklers, winning through chaos, building programs that open doors for kids who will build what’s next.

Why Mr. October still matters

Reggie Jackson is more than a night of three swings. He is a career of big moments and a life of bigger meaning. He pushed baseball forward. Now he’s pulling students forward—toward the labs, shops, clinics, and plants where the next American breakthroughs will be made. That’s clutch, too.

Baseball Historian Ted Knorr Brings Negro League Legacy to Life in new TSJ Column

From Exclusion to Excellence: The Birth of Negro League Baseball

Shadow Ball: Learning More About Negro League History

Why Rap Dixon Belongs in Cooperstown with the Legends

Negro League Conference Unveils More History and Takes on Future Challenges

Willie Mays, Baseball Legend and Hall of Famer, Passes Away at 93

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Shadow Ball: Learning More About Negro League History

Dear Shadow Ball: I am 63 years old and Black. I have only heard snippets about the Negro Leagues during my lifetime. I now have an interest in educating myself about the leagues. How do you suggest that I start — I imagine reading your column is one place and I will read your column and engage, but I want to really dig in deep.

Secondly, are any of the players still alive? Ready to Dig in Deep – Ansonville, NC

Dear Ready to Dig in Deep: Thanks very much for that question and your imagination is in keeping with my expectations and intent for this column. I hope that questions like yours and future inquiries submitted by others allow me to “really dig in deep” and permit me to educate readers about the rich history of the Negro Leagues. I expect from time to time I may recommend books, articles or websites that further serve to provide that education about the other half of Major League baseball.

With regard to your second question, some background is necessary. On December 16, 2020, Major League Baseball declared seven specific Negro Leagues and time spans as Major Leagues. I will limit my answer to those leagues. They are as follows:

Negro National League I 1920-1931

Eastern Colored League 1923-1928

American Negro League 1929

East-West League 1932

Negro Southern League 1932

Negro National League II 1933-1948

Negro American League 1937-1948

Sadly, at the time of that 2020 announcement, only three players survived. Since then, Willie Mays has passed on leaving only Reverend William Greason, 101, who pitched for the Birmingham Black Barons in 1948 and Ronald Teasley, 98, who played outfield for the 1948 New York Cubans still alive. So only two – Greason & Teasley remain from those Negro Leagues designated as a Major League. Just to be clear, the Negro American League continued on, no longer recognized as major, until 1961. A couple dozen or more of those players are still with us and continue to share rich stories with us.

The Shadowball Significa Question of the Week

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Uncle Nearest: A Billion-Dollar Brand, a $25 Million Question & The Unanswered Future

Uncle Nearest’s receiver plans to sell its Cognac, France château amid questions over asset value, investor stakes, and whether creditors aim to recover—or acquire—the brand itself.

By Milton Kirby | Shelbyville, TN | October 11, 2025

A French Estate on the Market

The court-appointed receiver overseeing Uncle Nearest, Inc. says the company’s French estate—known as Domaine Saint Martin—will be sold to satisfy debt, calling the Cognac property “non-income-producing” and estimating that it would require $15 million to $25 million in new investment to launch a viable product line.

Domaine Saint Martin Signature – Beverage Journal

In a 19-page quarterly report filed October 1, Receiver Phillip G. Young Jr. described the château, vineyards, and related intellectual property as “non-core assets” and confirmed he has already received one offer and two additional inquiries for the French holdings. The report also identified real estate in Martha’s Vineyard and Bedford County, Tennessee among other non-income-producing assets now under review for possible liquidation.

Young’s team has begun domesticating the U.S. receivership order in France, a legal step required before any sale or transfer of the Cognac property. Until a French court recognizes that order, control of the local bank accounts and property remains limited.

The Numbers Behind a Billion-Dollar Brand

Public filings confirm that Uncle Nearest raised more than $220 million from roughly 163 individual investors, with founder Fawn Weaver retaining about 40 percent ownership and 80 percent of voting rights.

Pre-receivership valuations placed the company between $900 million and $1.1 billion—figures drawn from investor briefings and industry profiles that underscore why the brand’s fate now carries implications well beyond a simple debt workout.

The receiver’s report portrays a company that remains operational and cooperative, with employees and management assisting in stabilization efforts. Payroll has been restored, distribution channels reopened, and new product releases are expected this quarter.

Still, the report makes clear that cash flow remains tight, and that lender Farm Credit Mid-America has advanced $2.5 million in emergency funding under a forbearance agreement.

Photo by Milton Kirby Uncle Nearest Trio

Receivership and Race: What the Data Show

Receivership is a court-ordered process in which a neutral third party assumes control of a company to preserve its value for creditors. It differs from bankruptcy in that operations often continue and the goal—at least in principle—is rehabilitation or an orderly sale, not liquidation.

While direct, specific statistics detailing the comparative success rates of minority-owned versus white-owned companies emerging from formal receivership are difficult to find in public reports from universities, banking regulators, or the SBA, there is extensive research highlighting disparities in business outcomes, access to capital, and failure rates that contribute to such financial distress.

General Business Outcome Disparities
Research indicates that minority-owned businesses generally start smaller, have lower revenues and profits, and have lower survival rates compared to white-owned businesses—conditions that make financial distress or receivership more likely.

• Closure/Survival Rate: A 1992–1996 study found that the average probability of closure was 26.9% for Black-owned firms, compared to 22.6% for white-owned firms.
• Revenue Disparity: Over half of Black-owned businesses have annual revenue below $100,000, compared to only 13% of white-owned firms.
• Financial Distress: In 2019, 58% of Black-owned and 49% of Hispanic-owned firms were categorized as financially at risk or distressed, compared to 29% of all small businesses.
• COVID-19 Impact: During the pandemic, Black-owned businesses closed at more than twice the rate of white-owned firms.

Disparities in Access to Capital

• Loan Approval Rates: Black-owned firms apply for new funding more often but are approved 19 percentage points less frequently than white-owned firms.
• Full Financing Received: Among low-credit-risk applicants, 48% of white-owned, 25% of Latino-owned, and only 46% of Black-owned firms received none of the financing they sought.
• Credit Risk Perception: Black-owned businesses are 3–5 times more likely to be labeled “high credit risk.” Only 33% of Black-owned businesses had low credit risk, compared to 72% of white-owned firms.

These statistics were compiled from publicly available research by the Federal Reserve, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and multiple peer-reviewed academic studies. They have been independently reviewed and summarized by The Truth Seekers Journal for inclusion in this publication.

General Outcomes in Receivership and Bankruptcy

Restructuring and receivership processes tend to lead to one of three outcomes:
1. Successful Emergence/Reorganization (Going Concern)
2. Sale as a Going Concern
3. Liquidation

While specific comparative data are limited, the broader research on capital access and survival rates strongly suggests that minority-owned companies face greater barriers to achieving the more favorable outcomes—successful reorganization or sale as a going concern—due to longstanding inequities in lending, collateral valuation, and investment access.

Assets Under Scrutiny

The Receiver’s First Quarterly Report states plainly that Uncle Nearest’s non-income-producing assets “should be liquidated.” That includes Domaine Saint Martin in France—acquired in 2023 as part of the company’s planned Cognac expansion—and property in Martha’s Vineyard reportedly purchased for $2.25 million through UN House MV LLC.

Industry observers note that the Cognac estate’s sale would unwind the company’s most ambitious international venture—an African-American-owned whiskey label expanding into the ancestral home of cognac production.

What the Receiver Did Not Investigate

In his 19-page report, the Receiver concluded that Uncle Nearest “lacks the ability to make that investment at this time,” referring to the $15–$25 million required to bring the Cognac operation to market.

However, the report does not analyze alternative scenarios—such as whether a strategic capital infusion, investor partnership, or lender-backed financing package could preserve the asset and enhance the company’s value over time.

The Receiver did not address whether a coordinated plan between Uncle Nearest’s ownership and its primary lender, Farm Credit Mid-America, could fund the launch of the Cognac line within a 36-month horizon, potentially transforming a dormant holding into a global revenue stream. Nor does the report estimate the annual cost of maintaining the French estate, or compare that expense against the projected value of an operating Cognac division. These omissions raise a key question: is the sale of the French property a necessary financial remedy—or a missed opportunity to strengthen a billion-dollar brand’s international expansion?

Who We’re Asking Next

As part of The Truth Seekers Journal’s continuing coverage of the Uncle Nearest receivership, we first reached out to Receiver Phillip G. Young Jr. at Thompson Burton PLLC for comment and clarification regarding several key findings in his October 1 report.

Our questions—emailed on October 10, 2025—included requests for information about asset valuations, operating benchmarks, professional fees, and any offers for the company as a whole. As of publication, no response or acknowledgment has been received.

In the coming days, we plan to reach out to additional individuals and organizations connected to the receivership and company operations, including Justin T. Campbell, Counsel for the Receiver, Thompson Burton PLLC; Newpoint Advisors Corporation, financial advisors to the Receiver; Thoroughbred Spirits Group, LLC, operational consultants; Farm Credit Mid-America, PCA, the senior secured lender; Fawn and Keith Weaver, company founders and principal stakeholders; and Tennessee Distilling Group (TDG), Uncle Nearest’s contract distiller and warehousing partner.

These inquiries will focus on valuation methodology, asset strategy, and possible restructuring options—particularly whether viable paths exist for the company to emerge stronger from receivership without selling the French Cognac estate.

If responses are received, The Truth Seekers Journal will publish a dedicated follow-up feature and reader update, continuing our commitment to factual, transparent coverage of this developing case.

This article was originally published on The Truth Seekers Journal.

Uncle Nearest at Legal Crossroads

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Baseball Historian Ted Knorr Brings Negro League Legacy to Life in new TSJ Column “Shadow Ball”

The Truth Seekers Journal welcomes Negro League historian Ted Knorr and his new column “Shadow Ball,” exploring the history, heroes, and hidden stories of Black baseball.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | October 7, 2025

We at The Truth Seekers Journal are excited to announce that on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, we will debut a new and engaging column: “Shadow Ball.” The column will feature the work of Negro League Baseball historian Ted Knorr, who has been—first a fan, then a historian—for more than 30 years.

About Ted Knorr

Ted Knorr, 74, is a retired program manager with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, where he focused on economic development and education. A lifelong baseball fan, Knorr has devoted much of his life to exploring the rich history of the Negro Leagues, along with his deep interests in statistical analysis, Pittsburgh history, literature, and baseball trivia.

Among his proudest accomplishments:

He has played the APBA Major League Baseball Game for 63 years and been a member of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) for 46 years, remaining active in the Negro Leagues Committee (NLC) for 36 of them.
Since 1966, he and his father have attended about two dozen World Series, All-Star, and playoff games, along with stadium and season openers in Pittsburgh.
In 1973, he hitchhiked across the United States, following the Pirates, Mets, and Reds before witnessing Game Six of that year’s World Series in Oakland, California.
He founded Negro League Commemorative Nights in Harrisburg, Lancaster, and York, Pennsylvania—annual celebrations held since 1997.
He established the Jerry Malloy Negro League Conference in 1998, a national research gathering that has convened 26 times to date. Knorr has hosted the event four times and attended 23 of them.
In 2007, he raised funds and designed a historical marker for his hero, Negro League outfielder Rap Dixon, whose life and career Knorr continues to champion for recognition in the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.
A trivia enthusiast, Knorr has won the Jerry Malloy Significa Contest three times, served as emcee ten times, and in 2022 led his team to victory in the SABR national trivia championship—making him the only SABR member to win trivia or significa titles on both sides of the color line.
Today, Knorr continues to lecture and exhibit on Negro League history for schools, community groups, senior centers, and baseball organizations nationwide.

A Twice-Monthly Column

“Shadow Ball” will be published on the second and fourth weeks of each month, offering readers a consistent and interactive look at the legacy of Negro League Baseball and the lives that shaped it.

Two-Way Conversation with Readers

The column will have two interactive components:

Reader Questions: Each edition, Mr. Knorr will respond directly to questions submitted by TSJ readers, allowing community curiosity to help shape the narrative.
Knorr’s Question to Readers: Mr. Knorr will also pose a question to readers. Selected responses will appear in the following week’s column. To be published, respondents will need to provide a release to TSJ.

Why “Shadow Ball”?

The title draws inspiration from the famous warm-up routines Negro League players performed—miming an invisible baseball to entertain crowds. In that same spirit, Knorr’s column will mix memory, history, and imagination, bringing the brilliance of Negro League Baseball into today’s conversations.

We invite our readers to join us in welcoming Ted Knorr and to become part of this living dialogue. Be sure to read the first edition of Shadow Ball on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

You can send questions to shadowball@truthseekersjournal.com or Shadow Ball, 3904 N Druid Hills Rd, Ste 179, Decatur, GA 30033

Receiver’s Report Says Uncle Nearest Can Be Reorganized Non-Core Assets May Be Sold

Court filings show payroll now stabilized under Genesis Global as Receiver Phillip G. Young Jr. manages costs, consultants, and $2.5 million in immediate receivership expenses at Uncle Nearest.

By Milton Kirby | Shelbyville, TN | October 5, 2025

Uncle Nearest can be reorganized as a going concern and does not need a fire-sale liquidation, according to the first quarterly report from court-appointed receiver Phillip G. Young Jr.

The receiver says the whiskey company has “significant value” and a realistic path to refinance debt, sell select assets, or be sold as a going concern in an orderly process.

Why This Matters

The report is the first public, court-filed snapshot since the receivership began on August 22. It outlines what was stabilized, what remains at risk, and what comes next for a high-visibility brand now under tight cash controls and lender oversight.

Path Forward: Stabilize, Cut, Sell What’s Non-Core

The receiver laid out a short timeline. He aims to sell non-income-producing assets in the next quarter and finish the overall process by the end of the first quarter of 2026 through either a debt refinancing, a new investment, or a going-concern sale.

Key asset moves include:

Cognac Project Assets (France): A château, vineyards, and intellectual property related to a planned cognac line. The receiver estimates a $15–$25 million investment would be needed to launch the line. The estate lacks that capacity now, so he intends to sell these assets. One offer is in hand, with additional interest reported.
Other Properties: Non-income real estate in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, and several parcels in Bedford County, Tennessee, are under review for potential sale to reduce debt.

Payroll and the Role of Genesis Global

One of Young’s first priorities was payroll. When he arrived, the company’s employee pay system faced a shortfall. Payroll has since been stabilized under Genesis Global, a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) that handles payroll, benefits, tax filings, and HR services for the company.

A PEO works as a partner — sharing employer responsibilities so that small and midsize firms can focus on operations while the PEO manages human resources and compliance. Genesis Global had already been engaged before the receivership and continued under the Receiver’s supervision, ensuring consistent payroll operations. Its support allowed Uncle Nearest to meet payroll deadlines and rebuild employee confidence after weeks of uncertainty.

Cash, Controls, and a 13-Week Budget

The receiver and his advisors built a rolling 13-week budget and reached a forbearance deal with Farm Credit Mid America, the senior lender, to fund immediate needs. The plan included about $2.5 million in one-time cash: roughly $1.0 million to clear urgent payables and $1.5 million for professional fees. Excluding those extraordinary items, the budget was balanced.

Collections and Spending in the Period

Category	Amount (USD)	% of Total
Collections
Operating Receipts	$1,451,747	46 %
Farm Credit Support	$1,700,000	54 %
Total Collections	$3,151,747	100 %
Expenditures
Operating Disbursements	$2,081,796	84 %
Professional Services	$405,370	16 %
Total Expenditures	$2,487,166	100 %
Budget for Period	$3,206,546	—
Variance (Under Budget)	$719,380	—

All bank balances were moved into receiver-controlled accounts. Weekly reconciliations and pre-approval for major disbursements were instituted to preserve liquidity.

Breakdown of Professional Fees

Vendor / Service Category	Amount (USD)	% of Total Fees
Legal Counsel (Bass, Berry & Sims PLC)**	$210,000	52 %
Financial Consultants (Crowe LLP)**	$105,000	26 %
Operational Advisory and HR Support (Genesis Global)**	$55,000	14 %
Receiver Administrative and Compliance Costs	$35,370	8 %
Total Professional Fees	$405,370	100 %

Figures based on allocations detailed in the Receiver’s First Quarterly Report and estimated vendor summaries.

Operations: Trims, Product Flow, and Distributors

To cut costs, the receiver reduced headcount by 12 positions (13%), with further efficiency reviews underway. The team also reset expectations with distributors and vendors. Tennessee Distilling Group partially lifted a credit hold, allowing some product to ship while talks continue toward full release. New product releases are anticipated next quarter.

Records, Cap Table, and Internal Reviews

The report flags gaps in historical records and internal controls:

Lost Data: Many pre-2024 financial records were allegedly erased by a former employee. Recovery efforts are underway.
Financials: Some statements are incomplete; the team is recreating reliable reports from source data.
Capitalization Table: The shareholder list is “incomplete and inaccurate,” with unrecorded secondary sales noted. Shares linked to Fawn Weaver were reportedly transferred by a former employee, possibly without authority. The receiver is contacting shareholders to reconcile the cap table.
Misconduct Checks: No evidence of misappropriation by the founder, current management, or employees. Allegations against a former employee remain under investigation.

Taxes and Compliance

Payroll has stabilized under Genesis Global after the initial shortfall. The receiver is assessing income, excise, sales, and property-tax exposures, with Tennessee and New Jersey flagged for possible issues. Future motions may seek court approval to prioritize tax and warehouseman’s-lien payments where needed.

International Steps

French counsel is translating and domesticating the U.S. receivership order to assert control over a French bank account and clear the path to sell the Cognac-region assets.

Timeline

The receiver aims to close the process by late Q1 2026 through refinancing, new equity, or a going-concern sale.

This article was originally published on The Truth Seekers Journal.

Related stories:

Uncle Nearest: A Billion-Dollar Brand

Uncle Nearest at Legal Crossroads

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