Michael Jordan Purchases Private Jet, The Price Tag Is $65M
Jordan dropped 65 Ms on the Gulfstream G650ER, jet
Being a billionaire allows the joy of making purchases small countries can’t afford, and Michael Jordan proves that with his latest buy. Reportedly the NBA Hall of Famer has copped himself a $65 million private jet.
According to Private Jet Clubs, Jordan is now the owner of a new private jet, a Gulfstream G650ER, that is valued at approximately $65 million. The recognizable Jumpman logo is prominently featured on the back of the jet, showcasing the tail number, N236MJ. The aircraft was recently seen in Florida at Palm Beach International Airport as it was viewed via social media on the tarmac. The aircraft is reportedly registered under MJ Air LLC.
The media outlet detailed that the private jet’s custom paint job totaled around $500,000 and can accommodate up to 19 people, with the possibility of up to 10 passengers being able to sleep comfortably. It also has a maximum range of 8,630 miles.
Business Insider reported that Jordan is not alone in owning a Gulfstream G650ER. Other elite billionaires in possession of one include Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg. Jordan’s latest aircraft is an upgrade from his previous just, the Gulfstream G550.
Jordan can definitely afford the aircraft but has recently filed an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR. He, along with another car owner, Front Row Motorsports, are suing the sports organization and CEO Jim France, stating that it has used anti-competitive practices to prevent fair competition in the sport. According to CNBC, the lawsuit alleges that NASCAR and France operate without transparency and in such a way that it doesn’t benefit team owners, drivers, sponsors, partners, and fans.
23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports take issue with NASCAR controlling all aspects of the business, including buying the racetracks that are exclusive to its races and allegedly making teams buy their supplies from single-source suppliers chosen by NASCAR. Another point of contention is not allowing teams to participate in other stock car races.
The Black United Fund teamed with Ikea for teens to pitch their business proposals.
A new program in southeast Michigan is giving kids in Canton opportunities. The Black United Fund is bringing teens to Ikea and allowing them to pitch their self-made business proposals to the stores’ receptive leadership team.
One of the program’s judges sat down with WXYZ News to talk with the program participants about the new opportunity.
Future entrepreneur and program winner Brendan White, in 11th Grade, opened up about his plans for the future.
“I wish to own my own real estate agency and start a multitude of passive income — such as vending machine businesses,” he said.
Recognizing how important it was to make a good impression on Ikea’s managerial board, Brendan didn’t take the meeting lightly.
“I did a little research before I came today,” he told the outlet. “I felt like I had to make an impression, a big impression. I can get a little jittery, so I’m still working on that.”
On Aug. 22, he and 15 other metro Detroit high schoolers met with Canton Ikea business leaders. They each pitched marketing ideas to potentially have the multimillion-dollar company bring them to life as part of its Retail Business Program, which is partnering with the Black United Fund to make it all happen.
BUF member Carlotta Tutt Holloway explained, “We wanted to make sure that they learn lessons from some of the top retailers.”
She continued, “Many students aren’t actually aware of these types of opportunities, so we wanted to make sure that they can do this aware that they can be marketing experts, aware of the fact that they can start their own business.”
The program is one week long and focuses on representation, fostering leadership, and equity.
Ikea Area Marketing Manager Kevin Matthews added, “Being from the Detroit area originally. Being a little Black boy that did not understand the types of jobs available in the creative space. It just felt like a good thing to do. To expose other Black and brown kids to opportunities and jobs we may not know about.”
“I also just wanted to make sure there was representation of an African American leader, so I felt like it was important to be a part of it.”
Brendan won the competition by pitching an idea to bring Detroit rapper Skilla Baby to the store. He will work with the furniture retailers over the next year to continue growing his business instinct.
Is Fat Joe An Opp For Copping Trump Sneakers? The Internet Weighs In
Fat Joe speaks on social media defending his choice to collect Trump's new sneakers despite claims he's a sell out.
The internet has mixed feelings on Fat Joe’s latest shoe purchase. The rapper defended himself for copping Trump’s controversial new sneaker amid a sea of naysayers thinking he’s an Opp.
The rapper posted on social media to speak his truth about why he bought the shoe, suggesting that his avid shoe collection may trump his politics. The Neighborhood Talk shared the footage on its Instagram.
“I had to get my hand on the Trumps,” explained the entertainer. “Get me the Trumps please…They think I’m fronting. But listen, I have thousands and thousands and thousands of pairs of sneakers. When everyone flipped on Kanye, I bought the two most exclusive Kanyes ever. I had to get my hands on them.”
An unknown member of Fat Joe’s entourage showed the shoe box with the detail “Family and Friends” on it while noting that only 50 of the coveted items were made.
“Once again, I’m not a Trumper. I dislike Trump. I’m not voting for him, not now, not ever,” shared the 53-year-old. But I’m a sneaker collector into the art so I had to find these….I collect sneakers; the rarer, the better. No I didn’t pay for these sneakers, sorry…they knew I had to have them, because I’m the biggest in the game.”
Instagram users were shocked at Fat Joe’s stance on keeping the gold metallic shoes despite being from Trump. One commenter noted when Trump threw paper towels toward a crowd in Puerto Rico, where Fat Joe is ethnically from, in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017.
“Chile, he threw your people paper towels when they were in dire need, and you do this,” questioned the naysayer.
Another user noted how Fat Joe’s claims that he does not support him, yet promoting his shoes still endorses his character.
“So you just endorsed him and his wack a** shoes that he made specifically for the black community…,” wrote a commenter while also typing the clown emoji.
I wake up and see that Fat Joe has been stripped of his Hip Hop legend status due to him having a pair of Trump sneakers (January 6’s)
However, some are calling it a lucrative purchase, claiming that the shoe’s value will be worth hundreds of thousands in a few years.
“Y’all do realize in [a]bout 5-10 years they [are] going [to be] worth 200k [plus],” explained another.
Many are considering Fat Joe a sell-out for receiving the shoes, even if he did not pay for them, because of Trump’s politics, which he claims don’t align with his own. Despite the notion that keeping the sneakers means he does not stand on business, it’s evident that Fat Joe won’t make a return anytime soon.
André LeRoy Davis Hosts Art Exhibit With City Winery NYC
City Winery NYC is celebrating Black History Month with "The Last Word," an art exhibit by André LeRoy Davis, known for his satirical illustrations on the "The Source" magazine's end page.
Fans of the famed satirical illustrator André LeRoy Davis now have a chance to view his works in a new gallery. The acclaimed artist will have his pieces on display at City Winery NYC throughout Black History Month.
Source: Photo by City Winery
The exhibit is called “The Last Word” to pay tribute to the thought-provoking, often political, and always satirical illustrations at the end of The Source that made Davis, who worked for the magazine from 1990 to 2007, a household name. The exhibit will showcase some of his famed works for the publication.
On City Winery’s website, Davis spoke about his unorthodox visual humor and what the viewer should gain from the experience.
“If you’ve never been introduced to my artistry before, my humor may be outside of the box, but I tell a story within a box,” explained the visionary. “Jocularity, politics, captivating likeness, well thought out ideas, detail, hidden jokes, in-your-face statements and a parody that works in totality to elevate the complete package that seemingly draws you in.”
Over 30 prints of Davis’ famed works will be on display, all available for purchase. His themes of hip-hop, politics, and Black America have captivated audiences for decades, making him a critical voice in visual and written media for his provocative pieces that often call out injustice via his imagery of Black public figures.
Davis offered details about his mission to remain true to his artistry by sparking conversation.
“My mission with my art is to inform, ‘make ‘em laugh, make ‘em think, enlighten ‘em, make ‘em double think about what they first thought and most importantly… I strive to say something with my art.”
Davis spoke to BET.com in 2021 about why he believed his work had gained in popularity.
“In the beginning, I illustrated whatever was happening in the news that was poignant,” he shared with the site. “After that, my illustrations would sum up the whole issue with one drawing. It evolved into whoever was on the cover. I really didn’t think anything of it. I was just trying to make sure my drawings were on point.”
City Winery is also unveiling a bottle of cabernet sauvignon to further celebrate the exhibit, with the keepsake featuring one of Davis’ signature pieces on the label. Tickets are free throughout February, with Davis to attend the venue for a meet-and-greet on Feb. 23 to speak more about the artwork that has aided in Black political consciousness.
Tony Snell’s Urgency: Signing With NBA Team Crucial For Benefits Supporting Sons With Autism
Tony Snell must sign to an NBA team by Feb. 2 to mark 10 years in the league to secure the NBA's retiree benefits program.
According to Yahoo Sports, NBA veteran Tony Snell opened up about his journey with autism, shedding light on his eponymously named foundation’s mission and the importance of mentorship. However, Snell’s commitment to making a positive impact faces a pressing deadline, highlighting the financial challenges of advocating for autism awareness. Snell has until Feb. 2 to sign with an NBA team to be eligible for a 10th year of service in the NBA for the retiree benefits program.
Snell’s connection to autism unfolded through his son, Karter, whose diagnosis became a catalyst for the basketball player’s self-discovery. Reflecting on this process, Snell expressed relief, acknowledging that he always sensed his uniqueness compared to others.
“I honestly felt relief. I always knew I was different from everybody else. Just observing other kids, just observing everyone around me. How they were interested in each other, and they just clicked. I couldn’t find a way to click or relate. Basketball was honestly the only reason I had friends,” he shared with Yahoo Sports.
Driven by his personal experiences, the basketball player established his foundation to facilitate interaction between children on the autism spectrum and those who are not. The foundation aims to create an inclusive environment where all kids can play and interact seamlessly.
Discussing Karter’s progress, Snell proudly mentioned improvements in his son’s development. Karter can now count up to 20 and demonstrates a solid understanding of shapes and colors, a testament to the positive impact of early intervention and support.
Beyond his advocacy for autism awareness, Snell has been using his time in Portland, Maine, to mentor young players, including Boston’s second-round pick, Jordan Walsh. Sharing his knowledge and experience, Snell expressed joy in helping the next generation of basketball players.
“I want to share my knowledge with the young guys. I have enjoyment from helping them out and showing them what I see. I’m at the stage where I want to inspire people and help as many people as I possibly can,” he affirmed.
However, a looming deadline adds a layer of urgency to Snell’s commitment to making a difference. The NBA veteran needs to secure a contract with an NBA team to ensure he can afford essential treatments for his autistic children.
The National Black McDonald’s Operators Association Celebrates 50 Years Of Black Franchise Owners During National Black Business Month
The National Black McDonald’s Operators Association (NBMOA) celebrates 50 years of Black franchise owners during National Black Business Month.
Created in 1972, the NBMOA helps Black McDonald’s franchise owners navigate McDonald’s franchise system and create a support network to assist each other, 2 Urban Girls reports.
McDonald’s, one of the biggest fast food chains in America and abroad, had more than 300 Black franchise owners as recently as 2008. According to its site, the NBMOA’s goal is to integrate its members, Black Mcdonald’s employees, and vendors into the fast food giant’s system.
Corwin Johnson, who owns several McDonald’s franchises in Southern California and is on the board of Ronald McDonald Charities, said becoming a McDonald’s franchise owner allowed him to earn a living doing something he loves while paying it forward by providing jobs and opportunities to others.
“Several of the managers I worked for set a great learning environment, something I try to emulate daily and also did throughout my college and professional career,” Johnson told 2 Urban Girls.
“Prior to becoming a franchisee, I worked as a certified public accountant and had the opportunity to see many businesses in many industries. I compared the processes, internal controls, and overall operations to my jobs dating back to my McDonald’s days. At the end of the day, I truly loved learning, people, processes, and business.”
The number of Black McDonald’s franchise owners has decreased in recent years. CNBC reported in 2008 that there were 304 Black franchise owners; however, in 2017, there were less than 250 Black franchise owners.
Despite the dwindling numbers, many McDonald’s franchise owners still speak positively about their experience. That includes the father-son duo of Larry and Dale Thornton, who both own a McDonald’s franchise in Alabama.
Larry Thornton, who purchased his first franchise in 1992, told BLACK ENTERPRISE in June how proud he was to see his son Dale become a franchise owner.
“I cannot tell you how proud I am that he chose this and I hope that he would because it gets back to this statement. I never wanted anyone to ask whatever happened to that Black man who used to own the McDonald’s?” Larry Thornton said.
The Sneaker Industry Raked in $70 Billion in Sales, But Black Retailers Did Not Gain Much
Fixated with gym shoes, Black Americans contributed heavily to making buying sneakers a $70 billion business. Yet, not many Black merchants are profiting from the windfall profits, raising big-time questions as to why not.
The circumstance is perhaps more perplexing with the global sneaker market revenue expected to hit $102 billion by 2025, up from $70 billion last year, based on data from market researcher Statista.
Nike, along with Adidas, and Puma were the most popular choices. Nike alone pulled in $24 billion in U.S. footwear sales in 2020—which is more than Adidas and Puma combined.
“Our brand would not be what it is today without the powerful contributions of Black athletes and Black culture,” Nike President and CEO John Donahue said, according to NBC News. But many industry participants are bothered that roughly only 5% of sneaker retailers in America are Black.
James Whitner (Image: NBC News)
“It’s a white boys’ club, like most things,” said James Whitner, a successful Black entrepreneur with boutique apparel and sneakers stores in several cities. “There are people aware of it, but their privilege doesn’t force them to have to change it.”
Whitner’s business has risen from an apparel and sneaker shop in Charlotte, NC, to several boutiques throughout the East Coast for his company, The Whitney Group, NBC News reported.
“My saving grace was I had a good ecosystem of a few Black people who taught me the ropes,” he said. “But on the other side are white gatekeepers who are keeping us out.”
While there are no official records for the number of Black-owned independent sneaker retail stores, Whitner said he knew them all and counted 18—including three in Europe. “That’s it.”
But lack of capital could be among the barriers for the shortage of Black sneakers retailers, observers say,
“Resources are required to be successful,” Whitner said. “And not many of us have the resources or the business savvy, or the understanding of what it takes to actually win in this industry. Starting when you’re disadvantaged is hard.”
Black entrepreneur Isom Lowman, who reportedly once owned 22 Athlete’s Foot stores, has since bought and sold several of them, bringing his total to nine. Lowman said acquiring a retail space now, however, is more difficult for Black people than it was two decades ago. Nike plays a huge role because of its universal popularity, he said. It alone can determine a store’s profitability and existence.
“Back in the day, if you had a Nike account, you could open up a store pretty much anywhere,” Lowman said. “But now, it’s hard to get a Nike account. So that makes it a whole lot harder for people in the business to expand, and it definitely has made it a whole lot harder for people to get into the business.”
(Nike did not respond to requests from NBC News for comment.)
Darius Billings, a senior director of product and marketing for the Athletes’ Foot, said he was inspired by a talk with family and friends during the Black Lives Matter-led social justice movement last year to consider how his company could be a factor in bridging racial inequities.
This past spring, he launched the Strategic African American Retail Track or StAART. The program is geared to address Lowman’s and Whitner’s points about helping create pathways for Black entrepreneurs to become retail store owners. Among its efforts, StAART recruits and supports Black entrepreneurs in the sneaker business by helping them clear the traditional barriers Black potential business owners face.
Meet The Speakers Of The Inaugural Black Enterprise DEI Corporate Boards/C-Suite Summit
Black Enterprise — the No. 1 Black digital media brand, with more than 8 million monthly unique visitors — will present its inaugural Corporate Boards/C-Suite Summit, as a groundbreaking virtual event on July 14.
Attendees of this unique, first-ever virtual event will receive exclusive information and insights on how the expansion of Black corporate leadership will transform corporations, increase shareholder value, and advance opportunities for all corporations.
Corey Anthony, SVP and Chief Diversity Officer, AT&T
Anthony started his career at AT&T in 1995, working as a manager in the Special Services Center in Wichita, Kan. Anthony has worked for AT&T for more than 25 years, holding several leadership roles across AT&T in its Wireless, Marketing, Finance, Network Operations, Human Resources, and Global Customer Service organizations. A Texas A&M graduate, Anthony also co-founded a chapter of AT&T’s African American employee resource group. He will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Racial Equity Imperative discussion.
Michele Meyer-Shipp, Chief People and Culture Officer, Major League Baseball
Meyer-Shipp joined Major League Baseball in October 2020 as its first Chief People & Culture Officer. She reports directly to Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr. and sits on both MLB’s Executive Committee and the League-wide Owner’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. In her role, Michele leads human resources; diversity, inclusion and culture; and off-field office operations globally for the League supporting the Central League Office, all 30 Major League Clubs, and 120 Minor League Clubs. Meyer-Shipp will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Racial Equity Imperative discussion.
Byron Loflin, Global Head of Board Engagement, Nasdaq
Loflin leads board assessments and boardroom training for Nasdaq Governance Solutions and is the founder and former CEO of the Center for Board Excellence (CBE) – acquired by Nasdaq in 2019. Loflin’s experience and expertise are in the design and administration of assessments and advising board chairs, boards, committees, directors, and executive management in a full range of corporate governance matters, including strategic alignment, best practices, board refreshment, diversity, structures, and corporate planning. He will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Diversifying Corporate Boards discussion.
Shellye Archambeau, Fortune 500 Board Member, Former CEO Of MetricStream
Shellye Archambeau is an experienced CEO and Board Director with a track record of accomplishments building brands, high-performance teams, and organizations. She currently serves on the boards of Verizon, Nordstrom, Roper Technologies, and Okta. Archambeau has over 30 years of experience in technology including as the former CEO of MetricStream, a Silicon Valley-based, governance, risk, and compliance software company. She is also a Forbes contributor and a published author. Archambeau will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Smashing The Concrete Ceiling discussion.
Kristi Martin Rodriguez, Senior Vice President, Nationwide Retirement Institute
Kristi Martin Rodriguez currently serves as Senior Vice President of the Nationwide Retirement Institute® for Nationwide Financial. Kristi oversees an extensive network of knowledgeable professionals who provide hands-on consultation to develop client strategies and address the major concerns America’s workers face when planning for retirement. Rodriguez has over 20 years of extensive experience in business-to-business and direct-to-consumer strategies and building high-performing teams. She joined Nationwide in 2015 as the Vice President of Marketing for Nationwide’s retirement plans business. Rodriguez will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Changing The Face Of Corporate Leadership discussion.
Ronald A. Williams Board of Directors, American Express
Ronald A. Williams is Chairman and CEO of RW2 Enterprises, LLC and the former CEO of health insurance giant Aetna Inc. Williams also serves as the Lead Director of American Express and Director of The Boeing Co. and Johnson & Johnson. Under Williams’ leadership, Aetna was named FORTUNE’s most admired company in the Health Care: Insurance and Managed Care category for three consecutive years. In 2011, the year he retired, Aetna had full-year operating earnings of $5.17 per share. The Market capitalization grew from $4.7 billion in 2001 to $15.3 billion in 2011 and the company ranked 77th on the Fortune 100 list. Williams will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Changing The Face Of Corporate Leadership discussion.
Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries. Jr., Founder dfree® Financial Freedom Movement
The Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. has served as the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens (FBCLG) in Somerset, New Jersey since November 1990. His pastoral ministry focuses on spiritual growth, educational excellence, and economic empowerment. In 2005, Dr. Soaries launched the dfree® Financial Freedom Movement. The dfree® strategy teaches people how to break free from debt as a first step toward financial freedom. Soaries served as New Jersey’s Secretary of State, making him the first African-American male to do so. Soaries will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Diversifying Corporate Boards discussion.
Guy Primus, CEO and Board Member, Valence Enterprises
Guy Primus is a technology executive with over 20 years of experience operating at the intersection of media and innovation. Throughout his career, Primus has demonstrated the ability to combine technology and popular culture to create aggressive organic growth for companies ranging from growth-stage startups to the Fortune 100. Primus currently serves as CEO and board member at Valence Enterprises, a venture-backed company whose mission is to create new paths to success for Black professionals. His vision for Valence helped secure investors including GGV Capital, Silicon Valley Bank, and Softbank. Primus will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Diversifying Corporate Boards discussion.
Kahina Van Dyke, Global Head, Digital Channels & Data Analytics, Standard Chartered Bank
Kahina Van Dyke has more than 20 years of experience in banking and technology with an impressive track record in leading, innovating, and delivering. Her past roles include senior management at Facebook, MasterCard, and Citibank. Van Dyke’s most recent role was SVP of Business and Corporate Development at blockchain company Ripple, where she focused on driving new strategic partnerships across the global financial services industry. Van Dyke will be a speaker during Black Enterprise’s Smashing The Concrete Ceiling discussion.
The DEI Summit will also include Black Enterprise’s President and CEO Earl ‘Butch’ Graves Jr. Senior V.P. and Editor-at-Large Alfred Edmond Jr.; EVP/Chief Content Officer Derek Dingle and Executive Managing Editor Alisa Gumbs.
According to the “Learning New Ventures” website, the program is a weeklong course requiring 12-15 hours of pre-work. Unlike traditional programs, participants do not need any formal education requirements. Even though enrollees pay a steep admission price, $19,000, the program is not open to just anyone who can afford it.
According to the site, the “selective admissions process is based on professional achievement, organizational responsibility, and the admissions criteria.“
The rapper’s family surprised him after he achieved his latest milestone. In a video posted to X, Jones is seen entering a home in Atlanta decorated with red and white balloons, smiling and hugging family members.
The rapper has multiple No. 1 albums on the Billboard charts, including his 2022’s “It’s Only Me.”
Jones is also the CEO of the record label Glass Window Entertainment. The label signed its first artist, Rylo Rodriguez, in August 2024. The label has been active since 2017 but is re-branding to fit the new era Jones is entering.
In 2023, he opened The Seafood Menu restaurant and Lounge in Atlanta.
“Restaurants are one of the few businesses that have lasted for 50 years, standing strong even through the challenges of the pandemic,” Jone said in a press release. “I believe in the power of endurance.”
While operating multiple successful businesses and having a rap career, Jones gives back to his hometown of Atlanta. In 2023, Jones partnered with Foot Locker to host “ Lil Baby’s Annual Back 2 School Festival,” which was held in three different locations on the same day.
The rapper handed out snacks and school supplies for the upcoming school year. The 2024 festival was held July 28 at The Mall West End in Atlanta.
“Try submitting x-ray, PET, MRI or other medical images to Grok for analysis. This is still early stage, but it is already quite accurate and will become extremely good,” he wrote. “Let us know where Grok gets it right or needs work.”
Try submitting x-ray, PET, MRI or other medical images to Grok for analysis.
This is still early stage, but it is already quite accurate and will become extremely good.
Let us know where Grok gets it right or needs work.
Some people who volunteered images celebrated Grok being “spot on” with blood test results and breast cancer detection but others waved red flags against the platform.
Josh Sharp, who goes by @showinvestment on social media, pointed out how a broken clavicle was looked at as a dislocated shoulder.
I submitted my Xray to Grok and it said I had a dislocated shoulder.
Radiologist Docteur TJ, provided an in depth analysis on an MRI image that he partially labeled as “too generic.”
Hello Elon, Radiologist here. Just tried with the last MRI image I had (adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder, level: easy, typical pattern) Heading + 1: true 2: not true 3: true but too generic 4-5-6: not true Conclusion: too generic + no diagnosis Will try again next time ! pic.twitter.com/O0TXO9HmDn
Another example is the bot mistaking a mammogram of a benign breast cyst for an image of testicles.
Grok was launched in May 2024 after, through Musk’s tech startup, xAI, raised $6 billion in an investment funding round. Grok is not the first of its kind: Google’s Gemini or OpenAI’s ChatGPT also allows people to submit medical images.
While some have praise the potential technology advancement, medical privacy experts are not in that camp.
“This is very personal information, and you don’t exactly know what Grok is going to do with it,” Vanderbilt University’s professor of biomedical informatics, Dr. Bradley Malin said, according to the New York Times. “Posting personal information to Grok is more like, ‘Wheee! Let’s throw this data out there, and hope the company is going to do what I want them to do.”
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects medical information when shared with doctors or on a patient portal, as federal guidelines protect it from being shared without consent. But protections do not reach social media sites—only for doctors’ offices, hospitals, health insurers, and some companies they work with.
Netflix Sued Over Streaming Issues During Mike Tyson-Jake Paul Fight
Ronald 'Blue' Denton sued, citing 'no access, streaming glitches and buffering issues.'
Over 60 million people reportedly tuned in to view the boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, and many encountered problems while streaming the event on Netflix. Based on the issues one man had to deal with due to streaming difficulties, he sued the streaming giant for $50 million.
According to TMZ, Florida resident Ronald “Blue” Denton filed a class action lawsuit on Nov. 18. The suit involved the fight between the two men on Friday, Nov. 15, which saw Paul win unanimously over Tyson. The viewer is suing the company for breach of contract, among other things.
In the lawsuit, the New York Post reported that Denton wrote, “60 million Americans were hyped to see ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson, ‘The Baddest Man on the Planet’ versus YouTuber-turner-prizefighter Jake Paul. What they saw was ‘The Baddest Streaming on Planet.’”
When the fight was going on, many people took to social media to complain about having issues with trying to view the fight. Some of the complaints ranged from buffering issues to not being able to access the app.
Saying that there were “over 100,000 people complaining online,” the lawsuit stated that “boxing fans, along with the average Americans wanting to see a legend in what would most likely be his last fight, were faced with legendary problems, including no access, streaming glitches and buffering issues.”
TMZ reported that Netflix acknowledged being aware of its customers’ streaming issues during the boxing match.
“We don’t want to dismiss the poor experience of some members and know we have room for improvement, but still consider this event a huge success.”
Netflix announced that the fight was viewed by 60 million people worldwide and peaked at 65 million concurrent streams.
Tyson, 58, who had not boxed in several years, is over 30 years older than Paul, 27.
American Communities Are Pushing Back On Using Fluoride In Public Drinking Water
A battle is brewing across towns in America over whether or not to continue using fluoride in the water.
A battle is brewing across towns in America over whether or not to continue using fluoride in the water.
It’s a process known as fluoridation, which began around 1945. According to the American Cancer Society, it became popular nationwide after scientists noted that people living in higher water fluoride levels had fewer cavities.
By 1962, the United States Public Health Service (PHS) recommended fluoride in public drinking water supplies to mitigate tooth decay. The American Cancer Society estimates that fluoride is now used in the public drinking water supplied to roughly three out of four Americans.
However, opponents have been sounding the alarm over the years that fluoride in drinking water is unsafe for consumption. One organization leading the charge is the Fluoride Action Network (FAN). The organization, on a mission to broaden awareness of what it says, is the “toxicity of fluoride compounds,” says most developed countries worldwide are not using fluoride in their drinking water on the same level as America or, in fact, at all.
The organization says it has helped more than 500 communities successfully reject fluoridation, and there could be more.
Federal Leaders Getting Louder About Halting Fluoride Usage
While FAN says communities have rejected fluoridation for the last few decades, and as a result, the process has declined, this battle has taken center stage over the last few months.
For starters, the National Toxicology Program, a federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services, reported with “moderate confidence” that there is a link between communities with higher levels of fluoride exposure and lower IQs in children. These communities are using more than twice the recommended limit, according to the Associated Press.
A month later, a federal judge reportedly ordered the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate fluoride in drinking water further because higher levels could impact children.
President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to run the Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, said he would end fluoridation.
The Great Resignation May Be Making A Comeback In 2025
According to a recent report, workers are frustrated and ready to make a change.
Employers may soon see a trend of workers quitting their jobs, according to a new Glassdoor report.
In the October 2024 survey of 3,390 employees, nearly 65% of the participants said they felt stuck at their jobs. This is especially evident with tech professionals, where nearly three-quarters of the participants reported feeling unsatisfied with their current role. The survey shows that overall employee satisfaction has declined since 2022.
“People don’t feel like the job market is working for them right now, even if you hear economists and policymakers talk about how strong and resilient the job market is,” Glassdoor senior economist Daniel Zhao told CNBC Make It.
Zhao predicts employees may see more job prospects as businesses revamp their hiring plans for 2025.
Terry Petzold, managing partner at the executive recruiting firm Fox Search Group, said the presidential election may also lead to an uptick in hiring trends, particularly in the transportation, logistics, and oil and gas industries.
According to the Glassdoor report, more employees are making lateral moves and accepting pay cuts to secure more suitable roles. Seventeen percent of workers took a pay cut when moving jobs in 2024 — up two percent from the prior year
Experts say pay cuts are more common with people in management roles. Zhao says managers who survive a layoff are frequently tasked with additional work to pick up the slack. The additional responsibilities could lead to burn out.
“We are seeing many folks who switch from being a manager back to an individual contributor,” Zhao told CNBC Make It.
He continued, “We do also hear anecdotally from some workers that they don’t necessarily want to be a manager right now, or they’ve tried it and find it too stressful or not really aligned with where they want to go in the future,“ Zhao told the outlet.
Additionally, the Glassdoor report shows more workers are turning to side hustles to make ends meet. The Poll shows that nearly 40% of those surveyed have a side hustle. Fifty-seven percent of Gen Z and 48% of millennials have an additional income stream. Entrepreneurship and self-employment continue to rise. New business applications have surged 47% from 2019 to 2024.
Jackson State Leading HBCUs In Graduation Success Rates
Jackson State University is leading HBCUs in student-athlete graduates.
According to the latest NCAA Graduation Success Rate (GSR) Report, Jackson State University is prioritizing the education of its student-athletes.
The HBCU boasts a cumulative 87% graduation rate amongst active student-athletes, making Jackson State University the highest-scoring HBCU on the report.
Four of Jackson’s teams received perfect scores, indicating that 100% of its eligible student-athletes graduated on time. Many other teams scored above 90%.
“Men’s tennis, women’s bowling, softball, and women’s tennis. The women’s basketball team finished at 95 percent, soccer at 93 percent, and volleyball at 92 percent for Jackson State,” HBCU Gameday reported.
Malone Silver, the assistant director for academics and compliance posted about the Jackson State Tigers’ success:
The Division of Athletics at Jackson State University overall Graduation Rate of 87% is the highest amongst all HBCUs in the country and is the third highest in the state of Mississippi according to the NCAA’s latest Graduation Success Rate Report!
The Division of Athletics at Jackson State University overall Graduation Rate of 87% is the highest amongst all HBCU’s in the country and is the third highest in the state of Mississippi according to the NCAA’s latest Graduation Success Rate Report! #gotigerspic.twitter.com/7Y5uWGqn2m
On the cusp of the institution’s bicentennial the college chose to refocus on its religious mission. It is unclear how the elimination of the football team helps with the mission. What is clear is that many athletes will no longer be eligible for scholarships and will need to look for new institutions to employ their talents.
Former Lyft And Uber Driver Sues Rideshare For Allegedly Violating Her Rights When They Deactivated Her Account
Could this be justice for some drivers?
Rideshare services Uber, Lyft and the city of Chicago have all been hit with a lawsuit from a former driver over city rules she claims violate her rights, Fox 32 Chicago reported.
Ceresa Cohran drove for both Uber and Lyft for five years before she claims she was removed from the platforms due to city rules. The rules allow companies to deactivate drivers without reason, proper evidence, or even an appeal process. Her attorney, Matthew Custardo, says city regulations and the movement of the companies left his client defenseless.
“Uber accused my client of spitting on a passenger,” Custardo said.
“I mean… there’s no evidence, and there’s no appeal process.”
“That’s assault. I’ve never assaulted anyone ever, so it was crazy,” she said, according to Audacy. “My life being turned around, and they wouldn’t even really hear me out.”
Without proper investigation or due process, Cohran losing her sole income left her struggling to earn a living. “I just now found employment last month, almost lost my house,” Cohran said.
“I’m still, to this day, without a car, in a hole and trying to find a way to dig myself out and, basically, rebuild my life.”
Her case is just one of several implications affecting Chicago’s approximately 90,000 licensed rideshare drivers. Advocates and fellow rideshare drivers blame pending legislation for the severity of Cohran’s case. Some argue that if the Chicago City Council passed the Rideshare Living Wage and Safety Ordinance, Cohran’s situation may be different. The goal of ordinance, which has stalled since May 2023 and sponsored by Ald. Mike Rodriguez of the 22nd Ward, is to implement stricter protections for drivers.
During a rally in July 2024, participants highlighted that limited protections have resulted in drivers being victims of violence, with some even losing their lives.
Cohran’s lawsuit pushes Chicago to overturn its regulations and give drivers a chance to defend themselves. She hopes that such moves will lead to her being “reinstated” and “possibly, to be reimbursed on my livelihood.”
“Everything has changed for me now,” she said.
At the time of the rally, both Uber and Lyft defended their rules and city regulations that are on their side, saying they lose out on money when a driver’s account is deactivated. “Our business is literally connecting riders with drivers, which means we lose every time we have to remove a driver’s access to our platform,” a statement from Uber read.
“However, we can’t sacrifice safety or quality, and unfortunately, when a driver poses a serious threat to either, we have no choice but to deactivate them.”
Shokun is a fifth-grader at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown, Connecticut. The academy, which partners with the University of Connecticut’s science department, helps students learn and excel in STEM.
Without the use of high-tech supplies, Shokunbi created the air filter using a box fan, four furnace filters, duct tape and cardboard. After sending the filter out for testing, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) gave the device a 99% efficiency rate.
“It showed that the air filter took out over 99% of viruses in the air,” Shokunbi said. “And that it was effective.”
Shokunbi’s creation led to a wealth of attention and accolades. State Senator Matt Lesser praised the preteen scientist.
“Eniola is fabulous. She wows every room she’s in front of. She’s a real rock star.”
Shokunbi’s air filter project will continue to be developed at the Supplemental Air Filtration Program at UConn. The program received $11.5 million to construct filters for Connecticut classrooms.
The young innovator is passionate about eliminating preventable illnesses.
“A lot of people, they don’t realize sometimes that the only thing standing between them and getting sick is science,” Shokunbi said.
She takes joy in sharing her love for science with others and believes that investing in science creation is an investment in children’s futures.
Shokunbi wants all students to be able to learn without fear.
“I want them to go to school knowing that they’re safe, that they’re healthy, that they can learn,” Shokunbi said
Recently, BLACK ENTERPRISE reported on another group of excellent Black youth in STEM. Spelman University’s team of coders took the top honor “Best of the Best” at the 9th Annual BE Smart Hackathon.
The event hosted 205 students from 30 HBCUs across the country. Each team used artificial intelligence to create apps that positively impacted their prospective communities. It was a four-day tournament.
“The Spelman team, Protege, comprised of seniors Brianna Bray, A’laysia Miller-Chambliss, Morgan Lee, and Jasmine Singleton, used the entire 24 hours allowed to develop every aspect to ultimately win the judging. The winning team received DJI Drones Mini 4 Pro, MacBook Air, and 100,000 miles from American Airlines,” BE reported.
Philander Smith University and Talladega College came in second and third place, respectively. Morgan State University also received an honor for “Best technical skill.”
Florida Man Pleads Guilty To $1 Million COVID-19 Relief Scam
Bernard is scheduled to appear in court for sentencing on February 5, 2025 for sentencing.
A 24-year-old Florida man pled guilty to stealing the identities of 14 people to collect over $1 million in unemployment benefits and COVID-19 relief funds.
Conrad Brandon Bernard faces up to 30 years in federal prison for bank fraud convictions, to be followed by a mandatory consecutive term of two years for aggravated identity theft.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, from May 2020 through December 2022, Bernard applied for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EDIL) using the names and social security numbers of 14 people “without their knowledge or consent.“
The U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) approved Bernard’s COVID-19 relief loans and deposited the funds into multiple bank accounts per his direction. Bernard then transferred the money to accounts he created using the names of various individuals without their knowledge.
Additionally, Bernard received unemployment benefits using several victims’ names and social security numbers. The Department of Labor deposited payments to various accounts in several states.
According to the States Attorney’s office, Bernard collected $1,083,340 from EIDL and unemployment benefits.
In May of 2022, police pulled Bernard over during a traffic stop. Upon searching his car, officers found several laptops, phones, and 16 blank credit cards. Authorities then obtained a search warrant for Bernard’s home, finding more evidence of the items Bernard could have used to carry out the elaborate scheme. Among the evidence were 43 Florida identification cards or driver’s licenses, 29 Humana insurance cards, and 31 W-2 tax forms with different names.
“Bernard possessed numerous false identifications, including counterfeit passport cards, false Florida driver’s licenses and identification cards, the means to create false identification, and the PII of several thousand individuals including their names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers,” the report says.
The report did not specify how Bernard procured their personal information.
Bronx Rapper Showed Up And Out For Kids Of Incarcerated Family Members
The Bronx rapper showed up at Sei Less restaurant to support a nonprofit group, Children of Promise NYC.
Bronx recording artist A Boogie With Da Hoodie celebrated children with incarcerated family members at a dinner at a fancy restaurant in New York City.
According to the Bronx Times, the rapper dined with 50 young people at Sei Less restaurant in Manhattan through a nonprofit program named Children of Promise NYC. The gathering was done in association with the restaurant’s owner, Dara Mirjahangiry. This is the second year that Mirjahangiry has partnered with the program.
Last year, Sei Less catered a dinner for a nonprofit organization at a local school. This time, it brought the children to the restaurant, which is typically occupied by prominent rappers and celebrities who frequent the venue.
“The goal is to give back and see a smile on their faces,” Mirjahangiry said.
The kids in attendance knew they were in for a treat but did not know beforehand who the surprise guest was. Once A Boogie emerged in front of the children, they were excited to see a real live celebrity who greeted the kids, signed T-shirts, and took photos with the “Look Back At It” artist.
TMZ posted a video of the interaction between the kids and the 28-year-old rapper.
“It’s good being a part of the whole movement,” A Boogie told the media outlet.
The Bronx rapper grew up in the Highbridge section of the Bronx.
According to the Children of Promise’s website, the organization, based in New York City, “is a community-centered organization that partners with children and families impacted by mass incarceration to dismantle the stigma and heal from the trauma plaguing Black and Brown communities.”
The organization tries to help children and their families deal with a family member in prison. This affects approximately 2.7 million children in the United States, mainly in Black and Brown communities. The stress and issues with an incarcerated parent inflict social, emotional, and economic harm, and Children of Promise attempts to help the children deal with the pitfalls that affect them because of it.
