ROBERT CHANNICK
Chicago Tribune (TNS)
Ebony, the Chicago-born magazine that served as the voice of Black America for more than 75 years, is set for a digital rebirth Monday under new owners.
Bought out of bankruptcy for $14 million in December by Louisville-based Bridgeman Sports and Media, a company owned by retired Milwaukee Bucks star Ulysses Junior Bridgeman, Ebony will relaunch with a startup mentality, a lean operation and lofty aspirations. The storied publication s print format and its Chicago roots will be relegated to the past. We re going to ask for grace, because we did this quickly, said Michele Ghee, 54, a media veteran who was named CEO of Ebony in January. But we are in a rush to show that we have great intentions.
The new CEO said she will hold true to the simple, fundamental principles in the brands documenting of Black culture. Ghee promised a rebirth and revitalization for Black media and Black America through the iconic brands, a release said.
According to the company, Ghee has worked in the media and entertainment industry for over 25 years, generating billions of dollars in revenue for companies such as WME, CNN, A&E, The History Channel and BET Networks.
Ghee created and ran the first and only network for Black woman, BETHer, while at BET Networks, according to a release.
In the magazines 75th anniversary, Ghee is expected to create the vision for the brands while activating their strategy, the company added.