"Serving Community Through a 26-Year-Old Luncheon Tradition"
Origins and Purpose
The idea for this luncheon came from a former water utilities employee who wanted to honor her late father by giving back. It initially aimed to address food insecurities in the Texarkana area. Today, 26 years later, it continues to thrive. As meal organizer James Bramlett says, "No, it never gets old. I plan to live 100 and hope to be here 33 more years, serving beans and cornbread every first Thursday."This luncheon not only provides a delicious meal but also has a profound impact. Proceeds, whether through financial donations or non-perishable food items, support the city's Christmas Basket program. They hope to provide around 150 baskets this year, showing their commitment to helping those in need.Community Impact
Some attending the event share their reasons for coming. Robert Tyson, a diner, says, "You know this is a great event. It supports the community and I like being part of that. I like doing what James and them have done with the community here." The luncheon has become a gathering place where people come together to support one another and make a difference.There are many in the area who have a need for food, and this luncheon helps meet that need. As Bramlett explains, "There are so many people in this area that have the need for food and I learn about that each and every day. No matter what we do to provide service, there is always more need than we can fulfill."Enduring Legacy
Despite the passage of time, the Bramlett Beans and Cornbread Luncheon remains a staple in the community. It has become more than just a meal; it's a symbol of community spirit and giving back. As it enters its 27th year, it shows no signs of slowing down. It continues to inspire others to get involved and make a positive impact in their communities.This luncheon is a testament to the power of one simple idea and the dedication of those who make it happen. It serves as a reminder that even in a busy world, small acts of kindness can have a big impact.Martin Lawrence's Financial Commitment to a Family Wedding
Details of the Wedding Arrangements
On Wednesday's episode of the "Big Boy's Neighborhood" podcast, Martin Lawrence shared this news. He said, "Eddie says I gotta pay for it. He said he paid for his last daughter's wedding [and] for the last six weddings. He says it's my turn now … I don't mind, I don't mind." This shows the unique situation where Martin is taking on the financial burden.It's a blessing to see two young people like his daughter and future son-in-law getting married. Martin Lawrence, with a net worth of $110 million, is able to handle this financial commitment. Meanwhile, Eddie Murphy, estimated to be worth $200 million, has a different financial standing.The Family Background
Martin Lawrence is the father to Lyanna Faith, 24, and Amara Trinity, 22, sharing his daughters with separate exes. Eddie Murphy, on the other hand, is the father to Eric, 35, Bria, 35, Christian, 34, Myles Mitchell, 32, Shayne Audra, 30, Zola Ivy, 24, Bella Zahra, 22, Angel Iris, 17, Izzy Oona, 8, and Max Charles, 6, with different women.The couple got engaged last month via Instagram. They shared a video showing Eric getting down on one knee in a room filled with candles, rose petals, flowers, and live music. It was a truly special moment.In July 2021, Eric and Jasmin shared that they were dating when Jasmin posted a birthday tribute to her beau on Instagram. They've been dating for three years and have been seen packing on the PDA in a series of selfies.It's interesting to note that their famous fathers have worked on various projects together dating back to the '90s, including their 1995 hit "Bad Boys," 1992 film "Boomerang," and 1999 comedy "Life." This connection between the families adds another layer to the story.Unraveling Elon Musk's Election Finances
Elon Musk and RBG PAC
During the 2024 campaign, Elon Musk poured a substantial amount of money into RBG PAC. As per the report filed with the Federal Election Commission on Thursday night, he financed this super PAC with a whopping $20.5 million. This single donation from the Elon Musk Revocable Trust in Austin, Texas, became the sole source of funds for the group. RBG PAC, which had remained silent about its donors before the election, launched ads claiming that President-elect Donald Trump did not support a federal abortion ban. The group's website even went as far as to state that Trump and the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg agreed on the abortion issue, a claim that drew sharp criticism from Ginsburg's granddaughter Clara Spara. She told The New York Times that the message was "nothing short of appalling."This significant financial move by Musk shows his active involvement in the political arena and his stance on certain issues. It raises questions about the influence of billionaires like Musk on election outcomes and policy decisions.
The ads launched by RBG PAC through this substantial donation likely had an impact on the public perception and the political discourse surrounding the abortion issue during the campaign.
Elon Musk and America PAC
Musk's election spending extended beyond RBG PAC. He also financed America PAC, a super PAC that reported spending a whopping $157 million in support of Trump in the presidential race. The latest campaign finance report of America PAC revealed that Musk donated a staggering $238 million throughout the election cycle. This includes a massive $120 million in the final weeks of the race alone.The funds from America PAC were used for various activities such as canvassing, text message-based get-out-the-vote efforts, printing and postage (most likely for direct mail), and digital advertising. These efforts were aimed at boosting Trump's campaign and getting out the vote for him.
In addition to these activities, America PAC ran a controversial cash giveaway that gave out $1 million each day to someone who signed the group's conservative-leaning petition. This move sparked legal battles, with Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner suing Musk and America PAC in late October trying to halt the giveaway. However, a judge in the state did not agree to stop the program. The Justice Department also warned the PAC around the same time that the giveaway might be illegal, but it has taken no public action on it.
Other Donations
It's possible that Musk donated more to pro-Trump efforts as political committees continue to file fundraising reports pegged to Thursday night's deadline. He gave $3 million to the MAHA Alliance, a super PAC affiliated with Robert F. Kennedy's "Make America Healthy Again" push, in late October.Musk's diverse range of donations shows his commitment and influence in the political sphere. His actions have not only had a direct impact on specific super PACs but also have broader implications for the political landscape.
As the founder of Space X and CEO of Tesla, Musk's involvement in politics has brought him to the forefront. He has been a regular presence at Mar-a-Lago, Trump's Florida estate, and by Trump's side during the transition, which has caused consternation among some in Trump's orbit.
Trump selected Musk to advise him on cutting spending across the federal government as a co-chair of his "Department of Government Efficiency" initiative. This further highlights Musk's significant role and influence in the political realm.