Bourbon Street , Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, New Orleans, New Year's Eve,

Suspect In New Orleans Terror Attack Reportedly Made Videos Pledging Allegiance To Isis Before Committing Act

Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar drove into Bourbon street on early New Year's Day, leaving 15 people dead and dozens injured.


The suspect in the New Orleans terror attack reportedly posted videos to social media about pledging his allegiance to ISIS.

Authorities revealed the man who allegedly drove into crowded Bourbon Street and killed 15 people as Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar. In the early hours of New Year’s Day, Jabbar allegedly took a rented truck to plow through the area. He also had an ISIS flag on display in the Ford F-150 truck with bombs placed inside, according to The Daily Mail. Jabbar later died during a gunfire exchange with police.

However, ahead of driving into the street known for its hordes of restaurants and shops, Jabbar allegedly took to social media to share his inspiration from ISIS, also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham. President Biden updated the public on the man’s potential motives, which he shared through videos leading up to the attack. Despite this, Biden also noted that the situation is still developing.

“The law enforcement and intelligence community continue looking for connections, associations or coconspirators. We have nothing additional to report at this time. The investigation is continuing to be active and no one should jump to conclusions,” Biden said, as reported by ABC7.

Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Texas, also served in the Army, with placement in active duty from 2007 to 2015. Following this, he served in the Army Reserve. He later moved on to IT and data engineering, working for multiple big-name consulting firms like Accenture and Deloitte until 2022. He also released a video introducing himself and his professional background during that time period. In the clip, he explained how his expertise helped in his new role as a real estate agent.

Jabbar is currently deemed the lead suspect in the Jan. 1 terror attack but may have worked with others to commit the deed that left tens of people also injured. According to the news outlet, an internal police document obtained by the Associated Press reported footage that showed a group of people planting an explosive device in connection with Jabbar’s car attack. The FBI remains on the hunt for these “people of interest” who potentially conspired with the now-deceased suspect.

As New Orleans continues to reel from the tragic events, city officials have asked residents to come together and help the victims by participating in a blood drive.

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Pertussis, whooping cough

CDC Releases Data Revealing Whooping Cough Cases Increased More Than Sixfold Since 2023

In 2024, there were 32,085 reported cases while in 2023, the amount was 6,479


The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data revealing an uptick in Pertussis, commonly called whooping cough.

The agency reported that the number of cases of whooping cough in 2024 was more than six times higher than that recorded in 2023. The total number of occurrences totaled 32,085, compared to 5,198 in 2023. The current numbers are the highest since 2012 when there were 40,411 cases.

According to CNN, whooping cough is a contagious respiratory illness that starts with symptoms similar to the common cold. It begins with a runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever, and a tickly cough. However, those symptoms can increase to a painful, full-body cough in about a week or two. There are instances when whooping cough can be so severe that some people will vomit or break ribs. Another telling sign is that the coughs can make the person make a whooping sound as they try to catch their breath.

The cough can persist for weeks or even months. It is an infectious bacteria easily passed on to others, even with milder symptoms.

The CDC has stated that whooping cough cases were at their lowest in the past several years due to the pandemic. The cause was most likely due to the preventative measures people took during the pandemic. Masking up, staying out of public places, and remote learning and working may have helped lessen the chances of getting the bacterial infection.

The lowest number of cases of whooping cough reported was 1,478 in 2021. That total slowly rose to 2,265 in 2022, almost tripling to 6,479, and then exploded to 32,085 in 2024.

The agency has stated that vaccination is the best way to avoid whooping cough.

But, the CDC also anticipates that the number of cases will increase in unvaccinated and vaccinated populations. Pertussis occurs in vaccinated people since the vaccinated will lose protection over time from the inoculation. It is recommended that adults receive the TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) vaccine, while children should get the DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) vaccine.

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Puerto Rico, power outage,

Power Restored To 98% Of Puerto Rico After New Years Eve Blackout

Nearly 1.5 million Puerto Rican citizens were left without power while ringing in the New Year due to an island wide blackout.


Puerto Rico finally has power again. Nearly all Luma electric customers had power after January 1, following a disruptive blackout across the island that left over 1.2 million households in the dark.

The private company that oversees electricity transmission and distribution on the island, Luma, announced that power has been restored to 98% of their customer base, including Puerto Rico’s hospitals, sewage facilities, and water plants.

Luma declared that the company’s employees are still working hard to get power to the last of their customers, but total power restoration could take up to two days all across the island.

President of Luma Energy Juan Saca said, “Given the fragile nature of the grid, we will need to manage available generation to customer demand, which will likely require rotating temporary outages.”

According to previous reports, the power went out across Puerto Rico early on Tuesday morning, just before the New Year.

As reported by CBS News, a Luma Energy spokesperson claimed that the blackout was a product of a failure in one of the several main electric lines at the island’s main power plants. The failure was so catastrophic that it took down power through the entire plant and then “created a waterfall effect in the system, which led to the other power plants on the island going out of service.”

Although the initial outages began at one of Luma’s plants, the affected power plants extended to even those owned by Puerto Rico’s primary energy generator — Genera — as well as some other private electricity generators on the island.

The blackout has exposed a chronically growing issue with electricity in Puerto Rico, which the 2017 Category 4 Hurricane Maria has exasperated. The power system across the island has been suffering from blackouts and a lack of maintenance and financial investment from the U.S. government.

Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo spoke out about the American government’s lack of action in Puerto Rican affairs. He wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, “Puerto Ricans have been treated as second-class citizens for far too long.”

He continued in the post, “The fact that, as Americans, they don’t have a reliable electric grid and suffer sporadic blackouts continuously is indefensible and would not be tolerated anywhere else in the United States. The federal government must finally acknowledge its responsibility to Puerto Rico and provide the resources and expertise necessary to end this cycle of insanity once and for all.”

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FBI, Dalllas, NA Players, gangs, South American

FBI Warns Pro Athletes About Being ‘Increasingly Targeted’ By Organized Crime Burglaries

The FBI is encouraging professional athletes to exercise extra caution as they are being targeted by organized crime burglaries at alarming rates.


The FBI has warned professional athletes about organized theft groups from South America that are “increasingly” targeting their homes.

The report comes after a string of burglaries between September and November at the homes of professional athletes while they were traveling or playing games, ABC News reports. Authorities reported a series of similar burglaries carried out by organized theft groups, allegedly targeting the homes of at least nine professional athletes.

“These homes are targeted for burglary due to the perception they may have high-end goods like designer handbags, jewelry, watches, and cash,” the FBI said in a Liaison Information Report.

Recent burglary victims include Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, and Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Dončić. Additionally, the homes of NBA players Mike Conley Jr. and Bobby Portis were also targeted, although the FBI’s report did not specify any particular incidents.

“While many burglaries occur while homes are unoccupied, some burglaries occur while residents are home. In these instances, individuals are encouraged to seek law enforcement help and avoid engaging with criminals, as they may be armed or use violence if confronted,” the report further stated.

According to the FBI, organized theft groups from South America plan their burglaries by conducting detailed surveillance of homes in person and through technology and social media. They analyze publicly available information and social media to track victims’ routines and often have prior knowledge of where valuables are stored in the home.

“These preparation tactics enable theft groups to conduct burglaries in a short amount of time. Organized theft groups bypass alarm systems, use Wi-Fi jammers to block Wi-Fi connections and disable devices, cover security cameras, and obfuscate their identities,” the FBI report said.

Authorities suggest that star athletes should move more cautiously. The FBI urges professional athletes to report any suspicious activity and maintain detailed records of their valuables and inventory.

They also recommend enhancing home security and exercising caution on social media, such as avoiding posts that reveal valuables, the interior of their home, or real-time updates while traveling.

Mike Duggan. mayor, Detroit, prosecutor, cases

Residents Demand Meeting With Detroit Mayor Over Destruction of Critical Prosecutorial Files

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is facing calls for a meeting over the destruction of vital prosecutorial files.


Detroit residents are calling for a meeting with Mayor Mike Duggan following revelations that critical prosecutorial files spanning decades have been destroyed.

Residents are outraged, as Mayor Duggan’s office denies any wrongdoing. However, the Detroit Metro Times reports that growing evidence suggests a deliberate effort to deflect blame and downplay the fallout from allegations that his office oversaw the destruction of critical prosecutorial files during his time as Wayne County prosecutor.

Frustration has mounted over accusations that Duggan, who served as prosecutor from 2001 to 2004, oversaw the destruction of records now considered vital by families of incarcerated individuals seeking to prove their innocence. These families now demand a meeting with Duggan to address the controversy, as many cannot access crucial documentation for their cases.

Mark Craighead, who was exonerated after spending years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit, is among those calling for a meeting. As one of the most vocal advocates for transparency, he is outraged by Duggan’s recent denials.

“For the mayor to act like this didn’t happen under his watch is not only disappointing but disrespectful to the people still fighting for justice,” he said. “I’m calling on Duggan to meet with us, the families, and the people impacted. We deserve answers.”

Outrage heightened after Duggan’s spokesman, John Roach, misled The Detroit News by asserting that the state’s current records retention law didn’t exist at the time of the purge. However, while this is technically true, it was found to be misleading since two other state laws required the retention of records.

Roach also acknowledged that some records were destroyed, crediting the destructed files to severe roof damage at a county-managed warehouse housing the files, which allegedly prompted a swift decision.

“A team of career prosecutors who were most familiar with the files and with Michigan’s Records Retention Act developed a triage process, keeping those files that were needed or were legally required to be kept and disposing of the others,” Roach said. “They did this as the County simultaneously attempted to set up alternative warehouse space before a catastrophic loss of files occurred.”

However, critics cite the response as insufficient and the decision as unlawful.

“The law is clear on records retention,” a former Wayne County prosecutor says. “Even in the event of water damage or a move, there are protocols to protect those records. What happened here was not lawful, and it’s appalling to see officials attempt to rewrite history.”

Attorney General Dana Nessel is facing scrutiny for her refusal to investigate. Despite evidence that the destruction of records violated state law, Nessel, a Democrat, has taken no action, leaving families and advocates uncertain.

“This lack of accountability from top to bottom is unacceptable,” Craighead said. “If the attorney general won’t act, where does that leave us? These are more than just files. They represent lives, families, and futures. Duggan must own up to what happened and work with us to fix it.”

Duggan continues his run for governor as an independent despite the scandal. The record purge could become a significant liability for his campaign.

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Jay-Z, jerseys, roc-a-fella, the black album, 20th, anniversary, Mitchell, Ness, Tony Buzbee

Jay-Z’s Attorney Cites Loophole In Hopes of Getting Assault Lawsuit Thrown Out

Jay-Z's attorney is hoping to get the assault lawsuit tossed by citing the statute of limitations.


Jay-Z’s attorney, Alex Spiro, is pointing out several inconsistencies in Jane Doe’s sexual assault lawsuit and is seeking to have the case dismissed.

Newly obtained court documents reveal that Spiro plans to file a motion to dismiss the lawsuit against the hip-hop mogul, arguing that the statute Jane Doe chose to sue under did not take effect until after the alleged sexual assault and cannot be applied retroactively to the rapper, TMZ reports.

The statute Spiro references was enacted in December 2000, three months after Jane Doe alleges she was sexually assaulted by Jay-Z and Diddy at an MTV Video Music Awards after-party when she was just 13 years old. Among Jane Doe’s claims in dispute is the location of the alleged assault, with Spiro and others arguing that the alleged incident can’t have occurred in New York City, as there are no homes that match the description provided in her lawsuit.

As a result, Spiro argues that the statute only applies to conduct committed within New York City and insists that the alleged assault could not have taken place in NYC. He points out that Jane Doe’s complaint states she was driven from Radio City Music Hall to a “large, white residence with a gated U-shaped driveway” about 20 minutes away.

However, Jay-Z’s lawyer argues that any residence matching that description—if it existed at the time—would be located outside the territorial boundaries of New York City and likely within neighboring New Jersey. Spiro also claims that statutes for Jane Doe’s possible claims expired in August 2021.

Despite the latest attempts, Jane Doe’s attorney, Tony Buzbee, says the lawsuit is still progressing.

“These are technical arguments being made, and the law is clearly on our side and the side of alleged victims,” Buzbee said. “The law is well settled, and we are correct.”

Last week, a judge denied Jay-Z’s efforts to dismiss the case, with the judge condemning Spiro for aggressive tactics.

“Carter’s lawyer’s relentless filing of combative motions containing inflammatory language and ad hominem attacks is inappropriate, a waste of judicial resources, and a tactic unlikely to benefit his client,” Judge Analisa Torres wrote in the court order.

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COVID-19, Health, Fake mask, wastewater, Midwest, cases

COVID-19 Wastewater Monitoring Indicates High Viral Activity Nationwide, Midwest Leads Regions

Visit the CDC's online resource center for more information on the wastewater viral activity level and data calculation methods.


The United States is experiencing high levels of SARS-CoV-2 viral activity in wastewater, with the Midwest leading all regions, according to the latest national monitoring data. Wastewater surveillance, a critical early detection tool for community spread of COVID-19, reveals trends that could indicate rising infection risks even before symptoms appear or clinical testing increases.

The national wastewater viral activity level for COVID-19 is high. Median viral activity levels across wastewater treatment plants provide a snapshot of SARS-CoV-2 prevalence in communities.

The Midwest currently reports the highest median viral activity level among all U.S. Census Bureau-defined regions. This level of monitoring highlights the increased risk of infection and underscores the importance of preventive measures.

How Wastewater Monitoring Works

Wastewater monitoring serves as an early warning system for viral spread. By detecting SARS-CoV-2 in sewage, health officials can identify infection trends within a community days or weeks before individuals seek medical care. This method also captures asymptomatic cases, which might otherwise go unnoticed.

Wastewater Viral Activity Levels Explained

The wastewater viral activity level measures the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 detected in wastewater, categorized as:

  • Minimal (Up to 1.5): Very low levels of the virus.
  • Low (1.5–3): Indicates low community spread.
  • Moderate (3–4.5): Higher but controlled virus presence.
  • High (4.5–8): Suggests significant viral circulation and infection risk.
  • Very High (Above 8): Alarming levels of community transmission.

National and regional data reflect median viral concentrations across treatment plants, offering a comprehensive view of infection potential.

Regional Breakdown

U.S. Census Bureau designations group regions:

  • West: States including California, Arizona, and Washington.
  • Midwest: States such as Illinois, Ohio, and Minnesota.
  • Northeast: States including New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.
  • South: States such as Texas, Florida, and Georgia.

Currently, the Midwest holds the highest activity level, followed by other regions showing varying degrees of viral presence.

Implications of High Wastewater Viral Activity

Elevated wastewater viral levels suggest an increased risk of COVID-19 infections, prompting public health officials to encourage protective measures. Early detection through wastewater data allows for timely interventions to mitigate spread, especially during high or very high viral activity periods.

Protecting Yourself Against Respiratory Viruses

In light of the high wastewater viral activity levels, individuals can reduce their risk by:

  • Wearing masks in crowded or indoor public spaces.
  • Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.
  • Practicing good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.
  • Monitoring community data for trends in viral activity.

Public Awareness and Action

Health officials urge communities to monitor wastewater data trends. Rising viral activity levels often precede surges in clinical cases. Individuals and policymakers can reduce the strain on healthcare systems and protect vulnerable populations by acting early.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of wastewater monitoring as a reliable, cost-effective tool for pandemic management. As COVID-19 evolves, wastewater surveillance remains a cornerstone of public health response.

Visit the CDC’s online resource center for more information on the wastewater viral activity level and data calculation methods.

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Tiffany Haddish, Hanukkah, Jewish, roots, life

Tiffany Haddish Celebrates Jewish Heritage With Hanukkah Celebration #BringOnTheLight

As the #BringOnTheLight campaign continues to gain traction, Haddish’s contribution highlights the importance of embracing and celebrating heritage.


Emmy-winning comedian, actress, and author Tiffany Haddish joined activist and producer Noa Tishby on Monday to light the seventh candle of Hanukkah as part of Tishby’s #BringOnTheLight campaign. The initiative showcased Jewish joy and resilience, spreading a message of pride and unity during the Festival of Lights.

The campaign launched with Gwyneth Paltrow lighting the first candle. It featured a star-studded lineup, including Mila Kunis, Mayim Bialik, Iliza Shlesinger, Van Jones, and Cindy Crawford. The series has resonated worldwide, with millions of impressions across social media platforms. Haddish’s segment will premiere Tuesday at 11 am. ET on YouTube and Tishby’s social media channels (@noatishby).

A Personal Connection to Judaism

Haddish and Tishby filmed the segment at the synagogue where Haddish celebrated her Bat Mitzvah in 2019. Reflecting on her journey to Judaism, Haddish shared how she unknowingly connected to Jewish traditions while working at Bar and Bat Mitzvahs as an “energy producer.”

“And every time we would get to the prayer, every time there would be a certain song, my whole heart would fill up,” Haddish said. “I felt like my soul felt happy, like a hug around me on the inside, like I’m where I’m supposed to be.”

Haddish discovered her Eritrean Jewish roots later in life through her father. The comedian maintained that her grandmother would remind Haddish of her Jewish lineage. Embracing her heritage, she formally converted to Judaism and celebrated her Bat Mitzvah on her 40th birthday.

In the video below, the actress recounts her Bat Mitzvah with fellow comedian Jimmy Kimmel, whom she invited to the momentous event. In the footage, Haddish gracefully slams her comrade after he shows up to the event wearing a “windbreaker and jeans” because he claimed he didn’t think she was serious. 

Sharing the Joy of Hanukkah

During the segment, Haddish spoke about her favorite part of Hanukkah—spending time with her extended Jewish family.

“For me, I live alone, right? And everybody in my family is not necessarily participating in what I’m participating in. So I have my own family. I have my own Jewish family, if you will,” Haddish explained. “And so I go from house to house every night, and it is so much fun. I’m learning how everybody does it a little different.”

The pair bonded over traditional Hanukkah customs, such as lighting candles and enjoying latkes (fried potato pancakes). Haddish emphasized how Judaism brings her joy and provides a sense of belonging, which she loves to share with others.

Celebrating Jewish Resilience

“Tiffany’s journey is one so many can relate to,” said Tishby. “Her connection to Judaism, even before discovering her Jewish roots, is indescribable yet deeply familiar. When Ari [Tishby’s son] asked her why being Jewish is important, her answer was simple and powerful: because it brings her joy, and she wants to share it with others. I hope this Hanukkah series inspires more people to proudly express their identity.”

Haddish’s segment underscores the mission of the #BringOnTheLight campaign—to highlight the enduring strength and unity of the Jewish community.

A Multifaceted Identity

Haddish is widely celebrated for her comedic and acting talent. She has had breakout roles in films like Girls Trip and appearances on Saturday Night Live. Beyond her entertainment career, Haddish has used her platform to explore and celebrate her identity as a Black Jewish woman, breaking down stereotypes and advocating for greater diversity in Hollywood.

Her memoir, The Last Black Unicorn, delves into her upbringing, including time in foster care, and how her Jewish and African American heritage have shaped her resilience and success.

Lighting the Way

As the #BringOnTheLight campaign continues to gain traction, Haddish’s contribution highlights the importance of embracing and celebrating heritage. Her story reminds us that joy, resilience, and connection can transcend adversity.

Fans can watch Haddish’s entire segment on YouTube and follow @noatishby for updates on the series, which includes Hanukkah’s eighth and final night.

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Sza, Singer, Songwriters Hall of Fame, Hal David Starlight Award

SZA Claps Back At Those Who Criticize Her Appearance On Social Media

SZA clapped back at one fan who trolled her change in appearance.


SZA is explaining why she started to act “different” toward fans who criticize her change in appearance.

After noticing one of her fans tweet a shady diss aimed at her, the Grammy-Award-winning singer didn’t stay mum. The fan was responding to another fan who tweeted a since-deleted photo of SZA from 2020, saying that they “miss this era” of the singer’s career.

But instead of keeping it positive, the fan decided to troll by commenting on SZA’s decision to get a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

“aka before she got big and bbl culture like,” they wrote.

“Yall say weird sh*t like this and wonder why I’m different and don’t feel comfortable w yall anymore,” SZA tweeted in response.

She also clarified that she was talking about her communication level with her fans, not her decision to alter her physical appearance.

“Yall do realize I mean different as in I don’t go on live+ talk and don’t communicate w yall like that anymore lmao not different as in change my appearance tf,” she added.

SZA has been open about her decision to go under the knife and get a BBL. Most recently, she expressed her regret about getting the procedure, admitting that she had to gain weight to get the BBL.

“I’m so mad I did that s—,” SZA told British Vogue last month. “I gained all this weight from being immobile while recovering and trying to preserve the fat. It was just so stupid.”

The “SOS” singer shared the lesson she learned from the experience.

“But who gives a f—?” she added. “You got a BBL, you realize you didn’t need the s—. It doesn’t matter. I’ll do a whole bunch more s— just like it if I want to before I’m f—ing dead because this body is temporary. It just wasn’t super necessary.”

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NCCU

NCCU Establishes School Of Law Commission To Shape University’s Legal Education

The commission will be headed by Raymond C. Pierce, a former dean of the NCCU School of Law and the current president and CEO of the Southern Education Foundation.


On December 23, North Carolina Central University announced it will form a 13-member commission to set the agenda for the future development of the university’s law school.

The commission will be headed by Raymond C. Pierce, a former dean of the NCCU School of Law and the current president and CEO of the Southern Education Foundation.

“The NCCU School of Law has been a transformative force in the legal profession, and with Attorney Pierce’s leadership, I am confident we will chart a bold and innovative path forward,” Karrie G. Dixon, the chancellor of NCCU, said in a press release. “His expertise and vision will help ensure our law school continues to be a national leader in impact, value, and excellence for generations to come.”

The commission will be responsible for reviewing and providing recommendations for ABA requirements, admissions requirements, courses and curricula, student-teacher ratios, student support and success, clinic operations, bar passage rates, and student outcomes post-graduation.

The commission is slated to start in January 2025, and it will issue its initial report in May 2025.

“I am honored to serve as chair of this important commission and to have been entrusted with this responsibility by Chancellor Dixon,” Pierce said. “The NCCU School of Law has a proud legacy of providing access to legal education and shaping the legal profession. I look forward to collaborating with some of the best legal minds in our state to ensure the School of Law continues to lead in excellence and opportunity for future generations.”

In addition to Pierce, the other members of the commission include: Glenn B. Adams Sr., a partner at Adams, Burge, and Boughman PLLC, as well as a former member of the NCCU Board of Trustees; Kate Bartlett, a former dean at Duke University School of Law; and Adrina Greenlee Bass, the special deputy attorney general of the North Carolina Department of Justice.

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