As a young man, Earvin “Magic” Johnson admired his father and other small town entrepreneurs who created jobs and served as leaders in his Midwestern community. He worked for them and watched them, and his interest in building communities through economic development continued even as his basketball career flourished. His fame as an NBA star gave him access to some of the most successful business leaders in the country, but it was Magic’s own entrepreneurial spirit that inspired them to serve as his mentors. Any doubts about his commitment to becoming a businessman were quickly dispelled by Magic’s willingness to listen and learn, and by the work he put into first mastering the basics and then pursuing opportunities as an avid entrepreneur. Magic recognized that densely populated urban communities were ripe for commercial and residential development. He then partnered with major brands like AMC Theaters, T.G.I Fridays, 24 Hour Fitness Centers, Burger King and Starbucks to lead the first major economic push in decades in those minority neighborhoods. The success of his businesses proved that urban residents would welcome and support major brands if they understood their needs. Magic continues to lead a national revival of economic development into neglected urban areas. He is bringing to them jobs, goods and services, and a new spirit of community.

In this book, Magic explains how he developed his entrepreneurial vision and his sense of mission. He shares what he has learned about the power of economic development as a force for social change. He also offers practical and invaluable “real world” advice on starting, financing, marketing and growing a business, building and motivating a team, spotting and capitalizing on opportunities, forming partnerships and joint ventures, buying and running franchises, serving customers, maintaining balance, and philanthropy.

As we reported last week, two radio hosts made startling comments that they believe NBA star Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s AIDS claims in the 80’s was a ploy. Johnson and many others were outraged by the comments and the station issued this statement:

“KTLK recognizes the seriousness of the health issues presented by HIV / AIDS — and the great work that Magic Johnson has done … We regret that some off-hand remarks by commentators on KTLK did not reflect that. To better inform our listeners and employees, KTLK will be airing HIV/AIDS awareness public service announcements, and will be reaching out to Mr. Johnson to get his thoughts on education efforts.”

Do you think that Magic lied and if so why ?

A couple of conservative talk show hosts have accused NBA great Magic Johnson of misleading the public with a false claim of being stricken with the deadly illness:

Magic Johnson says he’s outraged that a pair of Minneapolis talk radio hosts accused him of faking AIDS. KTLK’s Chris Baker and Langdon Perry made the remarks during Baker’s conservative talk show on Wednesday. Perry responded by asking about treatable diseases that a person can live with for a long time “if you just get some basic drugs.” Baker responded, “Like Magic Johnson?” Perry replied, “Like Magic with his faked AIDS. Magic faked AIDS.” Baker said, “You think Magic faked AIDS for sympathy?” Perry replied, “I’m convinced that Magic faked AIDS.” “Me too,” Baker said. Johnson issued a statement Thursday saying he was “outraged that Chris Baker and Langdon Perry would minimize such a serious and deadly issue.”

“Millions are dying from HIV/AIDS, and the fact that they would make jokes about my status is unbelievable,” Johnson said. “Chris, Langdon and KTLK should use their power in a more positive light by encouraging people to get tested for this disease instead of making up such ridiculous lies.”

Over the years many have speculated about Johnson’s health status because of his appearance. Johnson was diagnosed with the disease during a time when the medications that are readily available now weren’t developed yet. Johnson never seemed to miss a beat, even returning to the NBA. I have no reason to believe this. How do you feel about the claims ?