by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

February 18, 2026

Jackson State University Gets $14.5M To Extend Contract For Heart Study Training Center

The HBCU will continue providing research opportunities for its public health students.

Jackson State University (JSU) will have more time to train Black graduate students in heart health research after receiving $14.5 million from the National Institutes of Health to extend its contract another 10 years.

The money will support the university’s Jackson Heart Study Graduate Training and Education Center, according to a press release. Launched in 2013, the Training and Education Center has garnered $25 million as it reduces the gap in public health expertise.

The JSU-based Training Center will further its talent pipeline and research opportunities for the next cohort of public health professionals.

Graduate students at the center will engage in enrichment opportunities and specialized training, making them competitive candidates in public health careers.

“This investment reflects Jackson State’s continued leadership as a research institution and our ability to compete for major federal partnerships that deliver outcomes,” said Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D., interim president of Jackson State. “It also reinforces our responsibility to develop talent and strengthen the evidence base that helps families live longer, healthier lives.”

The money is also a boon for the Jackson Heart Study, deemed the largest investigation of cardiovascular disease in Black Americans.

The Jackson Heart Study was launched in 1998, shaping modern prevention, treatment, and education toward cardiovascular health in Black communities. Over the past 25 years, it has accrued generations of data from over 5,300 participants to strengthen its research and preventative care strategy.

The study has also advanced research and holistic treatment efforts for heart-related illnesses, such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. Black people remain disproportionately impacted by these issues, making this study critical for addressing this systemic health problem.

“Because the Jackson Heart Study was built with and for our community, the knowledge it has generated over 25 years has saved lives and transformed our understanding of heart disease risk among African Americans,” said Marinelle Payton, M.D., Ph.D., principal investigator of the Jackson Heart Study Graduate Training and Education Center at Jackson State. “This renewed investment allows us to continue training the next generation of public health leaders to translate world-class cardiovascular data into effective prevention strategies, earlier care, and healthier futures.”

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 18, 2026

Man Sets Himself Ablaze During Domestic Dispute In NYC

The unidentified man suffered serious burns and is currently in the hospital.

An unidentified 27-year-old man was hospitalized after suffering extensive burns across his body when, according to police, he set himself on fire while arguing with a woman on a Manhattan street.

According to The New York Daily News, the incident took place in the Washington Heights section of New York City at around 12:30 a.m. on Feb. 17. Officials have yet to identify the man.

The woman who was with him tried to put out the flames with her hands, which caused her to burn her hands.

The two were arguing near his car, located on Cabrini Blvd. near W. 177th St. The man poured the gasoline on his body mid-argument and then set himself on fire.

While the woman tried to put out the fire, the flames spread to the man’s car, igniting it.

Firefighters responded quickly. The man was taken downtown to Harlem Hospital; the woman was taken to nearby New York-Presbyterian Hospital Columbia. The man and the woman, listed in stable condition, are expected to survive.

There were no reports of any arrests or charges filed.

PIX 11 reported that on February 9,two other people caught in a fire were injured the same neighborhood. One person was listed in critical condition, while the second victim had serious injuries and in stable condition.

This fire took place just before 12 a.m. on W 162 Street between Broadway and St. Nicholas Ave.

Keke Palmer, webby, awards, Tyler Perry,

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

February 18, 2026

Keke Palmer Gets Real On How To Avoid Hollywood Burnout As A Multihyphenate Mother

Palmer spoke about how she juggles motherhood with her expansive career.

Keke Palmer has found the key to avoiding burnout, which is crucial to her success across Hollywood.

While Palmer secures her lane on television, film, and even podcast hosting, the multihyphenate producer makes sure she can keep up with all her ventures. She spoke to People about how she manages her career on top of motherhood, joking that she becomes multiple people to complete her to-do list.

“There actually are three of me,” Palmer told the tabloid.

The “Nope” actress did acknowledge that her work is a lot to juggle. However, she remains intentional about staying present for the day-to-day.

“It’s a lot,” the 32-year-old continued. “I feel like after [having] my son, I’ve become even more intentional with what I choose to do. And how I choose to spare my time. I love everything that I do, but I think I’m always conscious to have a good team, to make sure that I can handle it all. And be able to organize it. Because it is a lot, but I do love it.”

Alongside her founding of KeyTV, Palmer recently added another item to her packed roster. Her new show on Peacock, “The Burbs,” has the media personality back on the small screen. As the show makes its own waves, Palmer has become a growing force in Hollywood.

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A post shared by Keke™ (@keke)

The show is a remake of the 1989 film starring Tom Hanks. In the reimagined version, Palmer plays Samira, a new mother who moves into a mysterious neighborhood, where chaos rightfully ensues.

“It was actually kind of cathartic, because, well, the things that Samira was going through,” she shared.” Even with her relationship and how that was impacted by having a child. And then postpartum and how, you know, you’re trying to process things [while also being] so porous because you just [had] this human,” Palmer said. “I really related to a lot of that — and the horror behind it.”

However, Palmer prioritizes her job as a mother the most, as the experience also prepared her for the role. She makes sure to spend quality time with her son, 2-year-old Leodis, whom she lovingly calls Leo.

“The process of seeing him grow from being a little baby that didn’t speak to having words, opinions, and a personality is incredible,” said Palmer. “He’s teaching me, most importantly, how to relax and how to live. You know what I mean?”

While still reaching new heights in Hollywood, Palmer remains committed to all her roles as she dodges career burnout.

affordable housing, Washington State, Program, Historical Housing Discrimination, housing discrimination, property taxes, South Fulton, foreclosure

by Sharelle B. McNair

February 18, 2026

Three States Lead In U.S. Foreclosure Listings As They Spike By 32%

Foreclosures are known for putting communities in a rut, especially those in majority Black neighborhoods.

Data shows that foreclosure listings, including default notices, scheduled auctions, and bank repossessions, have increased by 32% across the United States, but a few states, including popular tourist spots, lead the way.

Realtor reports that data from real estate data firm ATTOM reveals a total of 40,534 U.S. properties were listed as foreclosures in January 2026, a 32% increase from 2025, with one in every 3,547 housing units having a foreclosure filing. But among the 50 states, three lead in listings, two of which are popular with tourists.

Delaware had the highest foreclosure rate, at one in every 1,612 housing units. Real estate agent Carol Quattrociochi, who specializes in foreclosed properties, explains several reasons why. “The reasons I have heard for people foreclosing on their properties mainly are due to the increase in property taxes combined with the costs going up for your everyday things needed for a person to survive,” she said.

Fellow realtor Don Ash puts the blame on the First State’s skyrocketing property taxes, saying since an assessment has been conducted in the last 40 years, “a lot of people’s property taxes have now increased, some by 50%, and they’re just not able to afford those payments.”

Nevada and Florida rank second and third, with one in every 1,983 and one in every 2,067, respectively. Realtor.com Senior Economist Joel Berner says states with close ties to tourism are often heavily impacted.

With median listings on a house in Nevada starting at $479,000 and $425,000 in the Sunshine State, it’s common for consumer spending to dial back during bouts of uncertainty. “This leads to job loss and struggles with paying mortgages. Also, both of these states have high rates of condo ownership, and as our recent research has shown, condos are experiencing more expensive monthly fees that could hinder owners’ ability to make mortgage payments,” Berner continues.

“In Florida, rising insurance costs could be preventing successful payments as well.”

Foreclosures are known for putting communities in a rut, especially those in majority-Black neighborhoods. In Cook County, Illinois, several Black residents were stripped of the title of “homeowner” and given the title of “felon” after many lost their homes over unpaid property taxes, according to Injustice Watch.

As of 2025, more than 1,000 homes, including more than 125 owned by senior citizens, have been captured through property tax foreclosure. While homes lost to tax foreclosure accounted for only a small share of Cook County’s 1.5 million residential properties, data from the Investigative Project on Race and Equity highlighted predominantly Black communities such as Roseland, Englewood, and Chicago Heights.

Some of the outstanding debt totaled $1,600 or less, with a dozen starting at under $200.

Barack Obama Presidential Center, basketball court

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 18, 2026

Barack Obama Presidential Center Will Include Full Basketball Court

"Everybody’s welcome at Home Court when we open the Obama Presidential Center this June."

President Barack Obama, who was recently seen at the NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles, said that his presidential center in Jackson Park, Chicago, will include a full hardwood basketball court when it opens this June.

It’s a fitting development for the president who brought pick-up hoops to the White House.

According to CBS News, Obama confirmed this development with NBA Hall of Famer and NBC Sports NBA analyst Reggie Miller. The 44th president added that the venue will include a library, a recording studio, and a garden for visitors.

“One thing that it will have is a full-court basketball court, and we intend to have all kinds of activities,” Obama told Miller, “because sports is an entryway for kids to participate, to build community, to create some joy.”

A camera caught the president catching a basketball during Sunday’s All-Star game. He used the video clip on his Instagram account to issue an invitation.

“About the extent of my game these days,” Obama joked. “But everybody’s welcome at Home Court when we open the Obama Presidential Center this June.”

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A post shared by Barack Obama (@barackobama)

The campus of the Obama Presidential Center spans 20 acres and is just blocks from the lake and south of the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry.

On the grounds are several buildings, playgrounds, and a 225-foot museum tower. Although renowned architects designed the buildings and spaces, it was equally important to incorporate community input during construction.

Team members from the Obama Center visited the 77 Chicago community areas. Consulting different people, while providing updates, answering questions, and responding to concerns for the project.

Though the center is slated to open in June, an exact date has not been announced.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

February 17, 2026

Trump Called Out After Saying New White House Ballroom Will Be Used For Future Inaugurations

Donald Trump is drawing backlash after suggesting his proposed White House ballroom could host future presidential inaugurations.

Donald Trump is facing backlash after touting his controversial White House ballroom and claiming it could host future inaugurations, a decision critics note isn’t his alone to make.

In a Feb. 10 post on Truth Social, Donald Trump shared renderings of the proposed grand ballroom, claiming it was “on budget and ahead of schedule,” even as the East Wing renovation remains tied up in court and far from approved to proceed.

“When completed, it will be the finest Ballroom ever built anywhere in the World, one that has been sought by Presidents for over 150 years — and now they are getting THE BEST!” he wrote. “Because of its unprecedented structural, safety, and security features, it will also be used for future Presidential Inaugurations.”

Donald J. Trump Truth Social Post 01:41 PM EST 02.10.26

Two views of the Great Ballroom being built on the site of our wonderful White House — It is on budget, and ahead of schedule! When completed, it will be the finest Ballroom ever built anywhere in the World, one that has… pic.twitter.com/AHun08bOsh
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Posts From Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) February 10, 2026

It didn’t take long for Trump’s boasting to reach Threads, where one Instagram user accused him of having no real understanding of how inaugurations work.

“Additional proof that Trump doesn’t understand separation of powers OR the symbolism of the US Capitol as the location of inaugurations,” the user wrote.

According to the Library of Congress, presidential inaugurations have been held at the U.S. Capitol since 1829, most often on its west front, a tradition that began with Ronald Reagan and has continued ever since. Earlier ceremonies were held on the east steps, and while the U.S. Constitution outlines the presidential oath, it does not specify where inaugurations must take place.

Now that Trump has suggested future inaugurations could take place in a proposed White House grand ballroom, critics online are pushing back against the claim.

“Who is he to say future presidents want to be inaugurated there?” one Threads user asked. “Probably in his mind, the matter of crowd size on the Mall would be eliminated! Plus, how is a pile of rubble ‘on target’? Dementia grasping tightly.”

“Presidential inaugurations will be at the Capitol, so the general public can view should they choose. Not just corporate donors bribing the incoming administration,” another user exclaimed.

The fate of the ballroom project remains uncertain after the National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a lawsuit in December against Donald Trump’s proposed East Wing demolition, arguing the move violated preservation laws. The group is asking a federal court to halt construction until the required legal reviews, including a public comment period, are completed.

Boston, Boston Freedom Trail, slavery, King Chapel

by Sharelle B. McNair

February 17, 2026

Slavery Exhibits Restored After Trump’s Failed Attempt To Hate On Black History

Philadelphia City Council President and avid Trump critic Kenyatta Johnson issued a statement saying “we cannot let President Donald Trump whitewash African American history. Black history is American history.”

The city of Philadelphia fought for Black History and won after a federal judge ordered the slavery exhibit inside the President’s House to be restored.

The Philadelphia Tribune reports Federal District Judge Cynthia Rufe, a George W. Bush appointee, ruled in favor of the city after filing a Jan. 22 preliminary injunction – the same day the Trump Administration ordered 34 exhibits describing the stories of nine enslaved Africans to be removed from the President’s House, home of George Washington, inside Independence National Historical Park.

She ruled for the exhibit to be restored in the same way they were on Jan. 21, in addition to keeping the grounds “in a clean and accessible manner.”

“Defendants are hereby ENJOINED from taking any action to damage any exhibits, panels, artwork, or other items from the President’s House Site, are ORDERED to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety, security, and preservation of any such items that had been removed from the President’s House Site on January 22, 2026, and are ENJOINED from making any and all further changes to the President’s House Site, including the installation of replacement materials, without mutual agreement of the City of Philadelphia during the pendency of this litigation or until further Order of the Court,” the ruling read.

The exhibit removal, including the tale of Oney Judge, an enslaved woman who escaped to freedom and built a life in New Hampshire, was done at the demise of President Donald Trump’s executive order “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History, according to The Washington Post. He and his administration called for all alleged “divisive narratives” to be scrubbed from national sites.

Trump’s MAGA narrative has subjected several museums like the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) to be under audit in attempts to eliminate the story of slavery and its damaging challenges overcome by minorities and marginalized groups.

But just like the ancestors before, the exhibits weren’t going to be removed without a fight.

Attorney and civil rights activist Michael Coard called the ruling a victory but also touched on reality after gathering dozens for the Avenging the Ancestors Coalition’s “Tell the Truth” rally. “It’s a great victory but we are not going to get too excited because procedurally, the government has a chance to appeal and ask for a stay of the judgment while they appeal,” he said.

“What we could possibly have gotten, we got it all.”

Philadelphia City Council President and avid Trump critic Kenyatta Johnson issued a statement saying, “We cannot let President Donald Trump whitewash African American history. Black history is American history.”

Rufe seemingly agreed. After criticizing the administration for asserting that “truth is no longer self-evident, but rather the property of the elected chief magistrate and his appointees and delegees…,” she wrote that “each person who visits the President’s House and does not learn of the realities of founding-era slavery, receives a false account of this country’s history.”

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

February 17, 2026

Stephen A. Smith Boasts, ‘We Wouldn’t Have A Border Crisis Under My Watch’

The ESPN star outlined part of his potential presidential agenda during an interview with journalist Robert Costa.

Stephen A. Smith is continuing to hint at a 2028 presidential bid, outlining positions that include stronger border security and increased funding for law enforcement.

The longtime sports commentator outlined his policy views for immigration, the economy, and crime in a Feb. 15 interview with CBS Sunday Morning.

“We wouldn’t have a border crisis under my watch. Hell no,” he said, in a clip shared online. “We wouldn’t have this crime that exists on the streets of New York—you wouldn’t hear about me saying ‘Defund the police.'”

“We ain’t defunding any police. I’m calling 911 when there is a problem, I know you’re calling 911 when there’s a problem,” he added. “I’ll be damned if I’m going to have less police officers out there. There’s going to be more—that’s me!”

ALERT: Podcast host Stephen Smith (D) says that if he were president, America wouldn't have a border crisis and he wouldn't move to defund the police:

"Make no mistake about it, we wouldn't have a border crisis under my watch."

"I'll be damned if I'm gonna have less police… pic.twitter.com/tbXdhyviqf
— E X X ➠A L E R T S (@ExxAlerts) February 17, 2026

Smith also said he would prioritize building a stronger economy, arguing that economic growth is key to reducing crime and instability across the United States.

“I believe when you have something to lose, you know how to behave,” he said. “If you have nothing, you have nothing to lose. As a result, you’re willing to tear down anything—even it’s America—because you feel betrayed by a country that’s supposed to be looking out for you and positioning you to thrive, instead of wallowing in misery and suffering.”

While Smith appears eager to present himself as a serious presidential contender, social media reactions to another celebrity entering politics have been mixed, with many expressing skepticism about his recent interview with Robert Costa.

Stephen A. Smith is moving closer to a 2028 campaign… spending a few days with him in recent months reminded me of spending a few days with Trump back in 2013-2014. Many laughed at the prospect of a bid. But in an age of celebrity and social media… https://t.co/VrTmJUWtsB
— Robert Costa (@costareports) February 13, 2026

“Democrats aren’t Republicans, Mr. Costa. We like our nominees to be qualified. No more entry-level presidents who’ve never served in public office,” one X user wrote.

“Will fatigued Americans have the stamina to go from a president who needs constant attention and will do anything to get it to another president who needs constant attention and will do anything to get it?” another user sarcastically asked.

President Donald Trump recently voiced support for Smith during a NewsNation town hall.

“I love watching him,: Trump said. “He’s got great entertainment skills, which is very important. People watch him. You know, a lot of these Democrats I watch, I say they have no chance. I’ve been pretty good at picking people and picking candidates. And I will tell you, I’d love to see him run.”

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 17, 2026

Bronx Teenager Shot Dead After Defending Friends

Christopher Redding was shot after friends stated he was defending others when the gunman short him and two other teenagers

Christopher Redding, a student who attended John F. Kennedy High School in the Bronx and had dreams of becoming a football player, was shot and killed after friends said he defended them before he was shot in the back.

According to Fox News, the incident took place on Feb. 11, as two other teenagers were also hit with gunfire. Both teens, a 15-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl, suffered a gunshot wound to their right leg and were taken to a local hospital, where they were listed in stable condition. The shooting, which started as a verbal argument, occurred in the Kingsbridge section of the Bronx.

CBS News reported that a 17-year-old boy was taken into custody on Feb. 14. He is facing several charges, including murder, attempted murder, manslaughter, assault, and criminal possession of a weapon.

The Bronx Borough President, Vanessa Gibson, released a statement via social media about the incident.

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A post shared by Vanessa L. Gibson (@msvanessa77)

“Our Borough is devastated and in mourning after the tragic triple shooting last evening that claimed the life of a 16-year-old teenager, and two other teens were left injured. We will continue to closely monitor this tragedy as the investigation continues.”

A GoFundMe has been set up by Redding’s high school football coach, Christopher Lopez. Lopez said that Redding played for the Fastbreak flag football team, the John F. Kennedy High School tackle football team, and formerly played for the Bronx Colts and LBX teams.

“In his final moments, Christopher was defending his friends who were being targeted by a group of individuals who then opened fire on them in the Bronx. His last act on earth was one of courage and selflessness, protecting those he cared about. The loss of Christopher has deeply affected his family, his teammates, and the entire community.”

He is survived by his mother, Shampagne Christian, and father, Bryan Corley, and his siblings.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

February 17, 2026

Black Men’s Roundtable Gets Heated After Clifton Powell’s Love Admission

The actor sparked tension during a Black men’s roundtable after being challenged over his admission that he didn’t learn how to love until a woman taught him in his 60s.

Tensions flared during a Black men’s roundtable when actor Clifton Powell was confronted by a speaker who criticized him and other elders for using age as a shield against accountability.

The veteran actor, best known for his role in the Friday film franchise, recently joined a roundtable hosted by SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective and The Conscious Lee, where actors, activists, and creatives discussed Black men’s role in reproductive justice and building healthier relationships with Black women.

During the conversation, Powell reflected on his personal journey with love, accountability, and emotional growth, admitting he didn’t learn how to truly love until his 60s.

“I’ve just learned how to love,” he shared. “I’m 69, about to be 70, and I’ve just learned.”

Powell said his admission stems from inherited trauma within Black families, describing it not as regret but as a moment of clarity shaped by generational wounds and lived experience.

“Our parents didn’t know how to love. Their parents didn’t know how to love,” he said, highlighting the long-term effects of “450 years of post-slavery PTSD.”

Powell said his current partner has played a major role in his personal growth, pushing him to confront his behavior and evolve.

“When you hurt somebody, where you leave them is where they stay,” Powell said.

Fellow panelist Joseph Irvin revisited Powell’s comments, using the moment to highlight what he sees as a broader lack of accountability among some older generations when it comes to owning their actions and the trauma passed down to younger family members.

“Some people have talked about, like, you know, going to counseling, have that upon yourself. Stop waiting for a woman to tell you what you need to do,” Irvin said in a clip shared online.

https://twitter.com/Raindropsmedia1/status/2023509200660521354

Powell fired back at Irvin. “You can’t tell me what the f-ck I’m living…I’m living it right now. You cannot fix no sh-t that you don’t even know what’s happening,” Powell shouted..

He continued, “You can’t fix no sh-t unless you meet somebody who help is on another level to help you elevate your understanding. I’m not indicting anybody. I’m telling you what the sh-t is. If you can’t fix some sh-t that you don’t know about, bro, you can’t. And then you get there at 69 or 70 and say, ‘I thought I was being loved’ and all this stuff. That’s what our parents have gone through, and that’s why we all so f-ck-d up right now.”

The tense exchange has ignited online debate, with some interpreting Powell’s reaction as a reflection of the very pain, anger, and trauma being discussed, and others defending him.

“It’s true. That’s why he spazzed. Why you damn need 70 yrs old just now ‘learning how to love’? Old asf and now you finally want to do right by a woman is sickening,” one X user wrote.

Another user defended Powell, saying the only reason he became upset is that “buddy was being disrespectful by not letting him talk.”

“We can’t get to a place where start disrespecting elders. Can’t speak for how other cultures do things, but there’s a way to communicate with elders, and that wasn’t it,” added someone else.

“I disagree. Older people rarely ever take accountability because they typically dealt with the same trauma they’re bring on someone else. Generational trauma,” one X user wrote.