February 15, 2024
The boy has reportedly been with his foster parents since May 2023.
A statewide Amber Alert has been issued in Ohio as authorities search for 5-year-old Darnell Taylor, who reportedly vanished overnight alongside foster mom Pammy Maye.
ABC News reported that police fear young Darnell may be in danger following statements made by Maye before the 48-year-old woman allegedly disappeared with the boy. Columbus police are pleading for any leads that could help locate Taylor and Maye after the pair went missing overnight under alarming circumstances.
During a press conference, Columbus Deputy Police Chief Smith Weir said Maye’s husband called 911 around 3 AM on Wednesday morning. The husband told officers, “She woke him up and made statements that made him believe their foster child, Darnell Taylor, had been hurt or was in danger.” While police did not disclose everything Maye said, the husband told officials Maye fled in the family’s grey 2015 Jeep Cherokee. Officers searched the home minutes after the phone call but found no trace of Taylor. Police located the empty Jeep abandoned in Brooklyn, Ohio, about two hours from the residence.
An Amber Alert swiftly followed at 5 AM as authorities checked the addresses of known family members and friends to no avail. “We have no idea what we are dealing with right now; that’s why we’re asking for the public’s assistance,” said Police Chief Elaine Bryant during an emotional plea Wednesday. “Any information you can give us, we’d greatly appreciate it.”
The missing woman has been described as 4-foot-9, approximately 115 pounds, with long brown hair. She was last seen wearing a green floral nightgown with pink shoes. As for the young boy, he may be dressed in Spiderman pajamas and white boots.
Maye’s husband is cooperating with police as they comb the premises for evidence. The couple has fostered Taylor since May 2023. Authorities are working to reach out to the boy’s biological parents.
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February 15, 2024
Boston Celtics player Jayson Tatum is teaming up with SoFi to establish the SoFi Generational Wealth Fund, dedicated to finanail wellness.
Boston Celtics player Jayson Tatum is teaming up with SoFi to establish the SoFi Generational Wealth Fund, a $1 million commitment to enhance financial wellness and promote homeownership opportunities, according to AfroTech. The partnership underscores Tatum’s personal journey and his commitment to providing resources that were not readily available during his upbringing.
The SoFi Generational Wealth Fund will channel investments into grants designed to assist homebuyers with down payments, focusing on benefiting individuals in Jayson Tatum’s hometown of St. Louis. The initiative aligns with Tatum’s vision to positively impact financial literacy and plan for a brighter future, especially for those who may not have had access to such resources earlier in life.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Tatum, raised by his mother, Brandy Cole-Barnes, emphasized the importance of financial education. “Me and my mom, we didn’t know about investments or savings accounts when we were growing up. But obviously, when I got to the NBA and started to make money, we had to ask questions and learn about things,” Tatum shared, according to KSN-News in Wichita, KS.
Tatum’s commitment to financial responsibility is evident in his decision not to rely solely on his NBA earnings. Instead, he finances his lifestyle through endorsements with companies such as the Jordan Brand, Subway, and Gatorade. Additionally, he is actively saving his earnings for his son’s future, his mother’s retirement, and his own long-term financial well-being.
“Ever since I got my first paycheck, I’ve been planning for my son’s future, my mom’s retirement, and my own long-term financial well-being,” Tatum explained. “Now, I want to help others outside the league up their financial game.”
Anthony Noto, CEO of SoFi, expressed the company’s pride in partnering with the NBA to solidify SoFi as a trusted brand. Noto stated, “As the next generation of banking, we believe we can help millions of NBA fans nationwide achieve their financial goals and get their money right.” He highlighted the importance of the SoFi Generational Wealth Fund in addressing the generational wealth gap and promoting financial education resources for wider accessibility.
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February 15, 2024
Harlem Residents are in the midst of a surprising transformation as a building once marketed as condominiums has becoming a homeless shelter.
Residents in Harlem find themselves amid a surprising transformation as a building once marketed as a luxurious condominium complex is set to become a homeless shelter, potentially accommodating migrants, according to The New York Post. The unexpected change of use has stirred frustration among locals who feel left out of the decision-making process.
The 35-unit complex at 2201 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd near 130th Street was initially touted as a high-end living space featuring market-rate apartments with amenities such as an indoor swimming pool and marble bathrooms. However, financial troubles for the developer led to foreclosure, resulting in the site being leased to a nonprofit organization collaborating with the city’s Department of Social Services/Homeless Services.
Marquis Harrison, chairman of Community Board 10, expressed discontent about the lack of community involvement, stating, “There was no discussion, no conversation about this plan with the community. This building has been empty for so long.”
City officials confirmed the site’s conversion into a shelter for either migrants or the local homeless population. A Department of Social Services spokesperson mentioned, “We are in the process of determining whether to use this site for long-term New Yorkers or newly-arriving migrants based on need.”
The abrupt change has raised concerns among Harlem residents who are already grappling with a shortage of affordable housing and rising prices. Some question why the abandoned luxury apartment complex is not being repurposed into lower-cost apartments for the community.
Harrison emphasized the need for housing for working-class individuals in the area, pointing to the increasing challenges residents face due to the scarcity of affordable housing.
In response to the community’s concerns, a forum on the building’s use is scheduled, organized by the St. Nicholas House Resident Association and the youth advocacy group Silent Voices United. A flyer promoting the meeting expressed skepticism about allocating housing resources in Harlem for a shelter instead of affordable apartments and criticized the project’s lack of transparency.
Residents also voiced worries about criminal activities in the vicinity of the building, urging Mayor Eric Adams to address the situation. The flyer demanded transparency and a comprehensive plan to improve existing conditions before introducing new complexities like an asylum seekers’ shelter.
The surprising turn of events for the Harlem property, once marketed as WA Condominiums, highlights urban centers’ challenges in accommodating migrants amid a broader national crisis. The city’s response to the ongoing situation at the southern border has led to repurposing spaces, such as the Harlem building, provoking a local outcry over transparency and community engagement.
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February 15, 2024
Isaiah Stewart was arrested after striking Drew Eubanks in the face several hours before the teams played at the Footprint Center
According to NBA.com, Isaiah Stewart, who plays for the Detroit Pistons, was arrested on Wednesday, Feb. 14, for allegedly striking Phoenix Suns center Drew Eubanks. The incident occurred in the parking lot of Phoenix’s Footprint Center several hours before the Suns and Pistons faced off.
Sources: Detroit Pistons F/C Isaiah Stewart punched Phoenix’s Drew Eubanks in the back tunnels of Suns arena today. It’s unclear what sparked the altercation. The NBA is expected to receive footage to review. More to come. pic.twitter.com/lxvS4wirdK
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 15, 2024
Stewart, who did not play due to a sprained left ankle, was given a citation by Phoenix police. Eubanks, who went on to play, scored six points and grabbed eight rebounds.
Eubanks claimed the alleged altercation took place as he entered the stadium. An argument ensued before Stewart allegedly punched Eubanks in the face, and security immediately intervened.
“The attack on Drew Eubanks was unprovoked, and acts of violence such as this are unacceptable,” the Suns said in a written statement. “We unequivocally support Drew, and will continue to work with local law enforcement and the NBA.”
Meanwhile, the Pistons said, “We are in the process of gathering information about what happened and what provoked it, and responding to the NBA and local authorities.”
Eubanks’ teammate, Kevin Durant, also commented on the situation.
“Keep the game first. There’s a lot of noise,” Durant said. “It’s unfortunate what happened before the game; it’s supposed to be a brotherhood. But I also understand dudes get into stuff. We try to avoid that in this league, hopefully we can move on from it. We all support Drew.”
Despite the pre-game drama, the Suns emerged victorious by a score of 116-100.
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February 15, 2024
Twitch streamer Kai Cenat is taking his brand to new heights after announcing his partnership with Nike.
The 22-year-old YouTuber confirmed the news in a Twitch livestream on Thursday, Feb. 8. Cenat’s venture with the mega sports retailer makes him the first streamer to partner with Nike. “I would like to announce that we are officially a part of the Nike family. This has been a long time waiting.”
“There has been nothing more that I ever wanted,” he added. “When I first got the call to be part of the Nike family, I literally couldn’t believe it.”
He held up a pair of Nike sneakers he planned to wear to the gym. Another video clip shows the Harlem native calling his mom to share the big news. He starts by asking her what her favorite sports brand is, which happens to be Nike.
The announcement comes ahead of NBA All-Star weekend, where Cenat will be playing in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game for Team Shannon on Feb. 16. With him officially joining the Nike family, Cenat might be sporting the Nike brand for the high-profile game. He recently teased that he has “something big” planned with Nike for one of his upcoming IRL (In Real Life) streams.
Despite the criticism he receives, Cenat’s streaming career is nothing to scoff at. He’s listed as the most-watched Twitch streamer with over seven million followers and a total of 115 million hours of watch time, Game Rant reports. He was named “Streamer of the Year” at the 12th Streamy Awards and the 2023 Streamer Awards.
He started streaming on Twitch in 2021, sharing his online gaming and reaction content. His following grew quickly and eventually led to him inviting celebrity guests to appear on his channel, including Nicki Minaj, Drake, 21 Savage, Offset, Lil Baby, and more. Cenat has credited his Aunt Cathy, a woman he met as part of a summer camp experience in Boston, for helping him start streaming by purchasing his equipment when his mother couldn’t afford it.
“Literally every time I came here, it was amazing,” Cenat said in a YouTube video. “Also, you’re like a second mother to me. You literally got me everything I wanted that my mom sometimes couldn’t afford, from the [Nintendo] DS to the games to me being in Gamestop. It meant a lot.”
February 15, 2024
HBCUs have emerged as institutions where alumni tend to earn more than other Black graduates in their respective states.
Online U reports, in a recent analysis of government data, that historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have emerged as institutions where alumni tend to earn more than other Black graduates in their respective states. This revelation is a testament to the enduring impact of these institutions on the economic success of their graduates. Among the top performers are Spelman College, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Hampton University, each showcasing substantial financial payoffs for their alums.
Spelman College in Atlanta takes the lead in offering the highest economic return, with graduates earning an impressive $16,404 more than alumni of other schools in the state. Spelman’s success is attributed to its rigorous academic programs and commitment to financial aid, with 96% of students receiving grants. Notably, Spelman remains the most expensive HBCU, with an average annual net price of $40,810 after grants and scholarships.
Xavier University of Louisiana, which topped the list in 2022, follows closely, with alumni earning a median salary of $11,667 higher than the state median for Black graduates. Despite a slight decrease in comparative payoff due to overall salary increases for Black graduates in Louisiana, Xavier maintains a strong focus on accessibility, boasting a 95% admissions rate and providing grant aid for nearly all students.
Hampton University, located in Hampton, Virginia, secures its position as the third-highest payoff HBCU, with graduates earning nearly $11,000 above the median for Black college graduates in the state. However, an increase in the annual net price, now at $40,351 after grants and scholarships, indicates the importance of considering both financial payoff and affordability when evaluating these institutions.
Morehouse College in Atlanta ranks fourth on the list, with alums enjoying a financial payoff of $10,322 above the state median for Black graduates. Morehouse, known for its focus on liberal arts education and a strong sense of community, has a 65% admissions rate but experienced a jump in annual net price to just over $40,000.
Tuskegee University in Alabama rounds out the top five, with graduates experiencing a significant increase in median earnings, positioning them about $7,000 above the median for Black graduates in the state. With a strong emphasis on STEM education, Tuskegee plays a crucial role in shaping the future workforce.
These financial payoffs, derived from an analysis of median earnings by college compared to the state salary threshold, provide valuable insights into the economic benefits that HBCUs offer their graduates. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, these institutions remain beacons of success and empowerment for Black students, contributing to a more equitable future.
February 15, 2024
Mothers and wives of prominent NFL players were recognized during this year's Women Raise the Game event.
On Feb. 12, 2024, the influential Women Raise the Game event presented an unforgettable honoree experience during Super Bowl weekend in Las Vegas.
Hosted by Boldyn Networks, the exclusive Women Raise the Game celebration at the esteemed Four Seasons recognized extraordinary women making pivotal contributions behind the scenes in sports. According to a press release, the event rallied together groundbreaking women from across different roles in sports to honor their contributions. As Josephine Martinez, NFL Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, congratulated event organizers, she highlighted the historic nature of uplifting women’s voices in this setting.
“This event is a tribute to the women whose tireless efforts have often gone unnoticed, yet they are the pillars of success within the NFL—shaping players’ careers, steering organizations, and driving impactful initiatives for the betterment of communities,” said the Women Raise the Game initiative’s visionary Tish Galindo. “Moreover, this event is not just about celebration; it’s also a platform to drive meaningful change.”
NFL players created heartfelt moments during the event as they came forward to commend the women who encouraged them most.
As New England Patriots wide receiver and Super Bowl Champion Juju Smith introduced his mother, he said, “My mother isn’t a normal woman; she is a force of nature…for raising seven kids and helping me become the man that I am today.” Retired NFL quarterback Rodney Peete raved about his wife, actress and philanthropist Holly Robinson Peete. “She has been the glue that kept my life and our family together,” he stated.
Boldyn Networks CMO Jeannie Weaver addressed attendees with a call to action. “We’re not just reimagining for tomorrow, we’re building for it… without real diversity at the table, you will never deliver world-class solutions, and that’s what we are all about,” Weaver said before she presented President and CEO of the Bay Area Host Committee Zaileen Janmohamed with the Woman of the Year Award. “Women really do raise the game. We are developing the next generation of leaders — female powerhouses, and we have to do our part.”
Other WRTG honorees included:
Attendees also enjoyed a special guest performance from Grammy Award-winning producer and celebrity DJ Jermaine Dupri.
Proceeds from the event will support charities and initiatives that reflect a mission to empower women and amplify inclusivity and diversity in sports and beyond.
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February 15, 2024
Ayo Edebiri issued a tearful apology to Jennifer Lopez for her old podcast comments referring to J.Lo's career as "one long scam."
Actress Ayo Edebiri apologized to Jennifer Lopez backstage at Saturday Night Live for her old podcast comments about J.Lo’s career being “one long scam.”
The Emmy winner and singer/actress were booked to appear as host and musical guest on SNL. However, neither expected Edebiri’s comments about Lopez from a 2020 podcast to resurface online days before taping the live show.
At the time, Edebiri was a rising standup comic who appeared on the “Scam Goddess” podcast ahead of J.Lo’s Super Bowl halftime performance and offered her take on the pop star’s music career.
“Well, that’s the thing. She thinks she’s on multiple tracks, but it’s not her. I think she thinks that she’s still good even though, like, she’s not singing for most of these songs,” Edebiri said at the time. “A lot of the write-ups of the songs will be like, ‘J. Lo didn’t have time to make it to the studio,’ like, J.Lo was busy. It’s like, ‘Doing what?’ Not singing, obviously.”
In Lopez’s interview with Variety published on Tuesday, Feb. 13, the Hustlers star revealed the apology she received from Edebiri while backstage at “SNL.” Lopez says Edebiri was “mortified and very sweet.”
“She came to my dressing room and apologized with tears in her eyes, saying how terrible it was that she had said those things,” she explained.
“She felt really badly and loved my performance because we had just done my soundcheck and she actually got to hear me perform. She was just like, ‘I’m so f—ing sorry, it was so awful of me.'”
As for how Lopez feels about Edebiri’s podcast comments, The Bear star didn’t say anything Lopez hasn’t already heard.
“It’s funny. I’ve heard similar things said about me throughout my career, so it really didn’t affect me,” she said.
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February 15, 2024
Usher is working on a new scripted series about Black love in Atlanta that will bring his "music to life."
Usher is working on a new scripted series about Black love in Atlanta that will bring his “music to life.”
After his record-breaking Super Bowl halftime performance, the Grammy award-winning singer has announced a partnership with UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group, to develop a drama series based around his music, Variety reports.
“My 30-year catalog has resonated with so many people no matter where they were in their lives,” Usher said. “I’m happy to be working with UCP to bring the music to life. I hope the series resonates with you the way my music continues to.”
The scripted drama series will highlight “Black love in Atlanta and individuals looking to find a place to call home,” according to the logline. “The series will explore music, style, sex, romance, and secrets that threaten to tear relationships apart.”
While there’s no confirmation, there are reports that Usher could appear in the show, which is executive-produced by Selwyn Seyfu Hinds (Hulu’s Washington Black), Katie Zucker of Mad Massive, and Kenny Meiselas of KMei Productions.
The announcement comes after Usher expressed interest in building a multimedia empire similar to what 50 Cent has with his Power universe on Starz.
“You look at 50 Cent, right, he creates Power. You heard the music first, then you see the visuals,” Usher told Apple Music. “I’m hoping I can do more of that with the brands I’ve created with the songs. It’s a matter of managing to monetize and, at the same time, emotionally give people an escape. When you hear a song, you relate to it. It becomes an assistant in your emotional… It’s more than just music; it’s all of those things. Most importantly, it’s a connection.”
Usher will be busy touring after wrapping his two-year Las Vegas residency in 2023. His 2024 tour will celebrate the 20th anniversary of his 2004 Grammy award-winning album Confessions, and his latest album, the recently released Coming Home.
February 15, 2024
P.J. Tucker and Bones Hyland were sent home from a recent road trip; both are expected back with the team after the All-Star break.
The Athletic reports disgruntled players P.J. Tucker and Bones Hyland were sent home during the Los Angeles Clippers’ recent road trip.
Tucker, joined James Harden on the Clippers earlier this season as as part of a seven-player, three-team deal with the Philadelphia 76ers and Oklahoma City Thunder.
The move has been a source of frustration for both Hyland and Tucker as both men have seen a decrease in playing time due to the roster changes.
Tucker has not played since Nov. 27. Hyland has not played in a game since Jan. 31, appearing in only in seven games previously.
The Clippers boast the third-best record in the league at 36-17, trailing the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Tucker’s tenure on the bench is quite a demotion from his starting forward position on the 76ers. After joining the Clippers, Tucker was involved in the rotation for first the 12 games in November, six of which were losses.
The team has gone 27-7 since Tucker left the rotation.
“It was agreed upon that I would sit,” Tucker told The Athletic. “I didn’t just sit, it was agreed upon. Until they moved me, I would sit. They didn’t do it. But (I) try to be professional, as professional as possible. But at the same time, if I don’t advocate for myself, who is? You know? But it is what it is, man.”
For Hyland, his status took a turn when Russell Westbrook offered up his starting spot to play in the second unit. Hyland was the team’s back-up shooting guard., but he was passed over in favor of veteran Norman Powell.
Bothe men will reportedly be back with the team after this weekend’s All-Star break. The Clippers’ next game is Thursday, Feb. 22.
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