• Travel and Leisure

by Alisa Gumbs

November 29, 2024

Why A Fall Beach Getaway Was Just The Reset I Needed

I took advantage of the warmer-than-normal weather we’ve been having in the Northeast and scheduled a weekend road trip to Atlantic City, New Jersey, for one last chance to be a beach bum, courtesy of the Ocean Casino Resort.

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The beach is my happy place. Something about the scent of saltwater wafting on the breeze, the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, and the sun’s warmth on my skin just melts my stress away. And staring out into the vast horizon puts a pause on whatever else is going on in the world, giving me time to reflect and a change of perspective that brings me clarity and centers me.

Because I live in New York City, the end of summer usually means the end of the beach –- at least until the middle of winter, when I’ll inevitably hop on a plane to a sandy tropical destination with the rest of the sun seekers. But this year, I decided to try something different: a fall beach getaway.

I took advantage of the warmer-than-normal weather we’ve been having in the Northeast and scheduled a weekend road trip to Atlantic City, New Jersey, for one last chance to be a beach bum, courtesy of the Ocean Casino Resort.

Here are three reasons fall is a perfect time to hit the beach:

1. To stave off seasonal sadness

As soon as Labor Day weekend is over, I start dreading the impending reality that sunsets are getting earlier and earlier. That first day when you leave the office and it’s already dark outside is always a shock to my system. And for those who suffer from seasonal affective disorder, the change of seasons is even more challenging.

A beach trip is the antidote for shorter, grayer days. You may be wrapped in a sweater instead of sporting a bikini, but the extra dose of vitamin D is real. Even when I stayed in the room, not only did I have amazing views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, but I got hours of incredible sunlight.

Timing your getaway to the time change is another smart travel move, as it gives you something to look forward to other than “falling back.” In addition to the casino, of course, the Ocean Resort offers a range of bars and restaurants, the HQ² nightclub, a Topgolf Swing Suite, and a premier venue for live entertainment, Ovation Hall—which happened to host Lenny Kravitz the weekend I was there. How can you be mad when you spend your last hours of daylight savings time singing along with Lenny?

2. To prepare for a productive fourth quarter

Have you heard of the “winter arc?” The TikTok trend may be new, but the idea behind it isn’t. It’s a way to dedicate yourself to self-improvement over the colder months by focusing on new, healthier routines. It’s also a way to jump-start your “new year, new you” resolutions because, despite the frosty name, it typically starts in October. A fall beach trip could be the perfect kickoff for your winter arc, as it is an ideal place for reading, journaling, and meditating. Or if it’s your physical well-being you’re looking to prioritize, you can check out Ocean’s newly renovated MUSSELS Fitness Center, with a yoga space and Peloton offerings.

Even if you’re not intentionally working on a winter glow-up, studies have shown a connection between travel and mindfulness, creativity, and personal growth. Fall has traditionally been a season of reflection, transition, and rediscovery, so it’s an excellent time for a getaway.

The activity boost can help you smash those Q4 goals when you return.

3. To enjoy the calm before the holiday storm

Before you know it, your calendar -– and to-do list -– will be filled with holiday shopping, travel, hosting, and parties. It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but arguably the most hectic. Having quality time with just myself and the ocean helped me feel ready to tackle a jam-packed next couple of months. And even though dipping my toes into the frigid waters of the Atlantic wasn’t an option, if water is what you find soothing, the Ocean Casino Resort has a year-round indoor/outdoor pool with views of the coastline and both a jetted pool and jacuzzi in its award-winning Exhale Spa + Bathhouse.

On the other hand, if you started watching Christmas movies in July and can’t wait to lean into the season, the end of fall is a great time to experience the magical touches many hotels roll out. Ocean Casino Resort transforms into a seaside winter wonderland with 30 holiday-themed rooms and suites, complete with Christmas trees; a festive Jingle Bell Bar and a pop-up holiday market for adults; and a Santa’s Hideaway Adventure if you want to make your beach trip a family affair.

RELATED CONTENT: 9 Beaches To Visit Throughout The Black Diaspora

• Health and Wellness

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

November 29, 2024

Handsome Brook Farms Recalls Kirkland Signature Organic Eggs Over Salmonella Concerns, 25 Costco Locations Affected

Salmonella can cause severe illness, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

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Handsome Brook Farms has issued a voluntary recall of 10,800 units of Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs due to potential salmonella contamination. These eggs, sold at 25 Costco locations across Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, were distributed starting Nov. 22, 2024.

The recalled eggs are packaged in clear plastic cartons labeled “Kirkland Signature” and bear the UPC 9661910680. Only cartons with Julian code 327 and a “Use By” date of Jan. 6, 2025, are affected. These details can be found on the side of the packaging. The recall impacts no other products.

Salmonella can cause severe illness, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of salmonella infection include fever, diarrhea (which can be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream, leading to more severe conditions like arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis. Healthy individuals may recover without medical treatment, but complications can pose significant risks for vulnerable populations.

Handsome Brook Farms initiated the recall after discovering that eggs not intended for retail sale were inadvertently packaged and distributed for retail. The company is implementing enhanced supply chain controls and retraining measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

No illnesses have been reported. However, consumers who purchased the affected eggs are urged to stop using them immediately. The products can be returned to any Costco location for a full refund or safely discarded.

Consumers can contact Handsome Brook Farms at 646-733-4532, ext. 1, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ESs. Alternatively, inquiries can be emailed to recall@hbfeggs.com.

The recall is being conducted with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Costco customers in the affected states are encouraged to check their purchases and act swiftly to ensure their safety.

RELATED CONTENT: Caving Into Conservative Pressure, Walmart Ditches DEI Initiatives

• News

by Keka Araújo

November 29, 2024

Google Maps Misroutes Vehicle Off Demolished Bridge, Killing Three Security Guards

The bridge, a key route in the area before its destruction, has become infamous among locals as a “death trap.”

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On Nov. 23, three men lost their lives when the car, guided using Google Maps, plunged off an incomplete bridge in Bareilly, India, sending them 25 feet down into the Ramganga riverbed. The victims, Kaushal Kumai, Vivek Kumar, and Amit Kumar—all security guards—were returning home from a wedding when tragedy struck.

Local villagers discovered the submerged car early Sunday while visiting the riverbank. Upon inspecting the vehicle, they found the lifeless bodies of the three men inside. Police were immediately notified, and authorities began investigating the fatal accident.

According to police, the victims had relied on a GPS to take a shortcut home from Dataganj to Faridpu. Google Maps directed them onto a bridge destroyed by severe flooding in 2022. Reportedly traveling at high speed, the car failed to stop, plummeting into a ditch in the riverbed below. All three occupants died at the scene.

Victims Identified, Families Notified

Kaushal, Vivek, and Amit were well-known security guards in their community. Police confirmed that their families had been notified of the accident. Their bodies were transported via boats to a local morgue and have been sent for post-mortem examinations.

A Known Hazard Becomes a Death Trap

The bridge, a key route in the area before its destruction, has become infamous among locals as a “death trap.” Although the damaged section is officially closed to traffic, inadequate signage warning of its condition and reliance on outdated GPS and Google Maps have made it a persistent danger.

“Drivers unfamiliar with the area trust their GPS blindly, which often directs them onto this incomplete bridge,” said a resident.

The tragedy has renewed calls for urgent government action to improve infrastructure and install clear warnings to prevent further accidents.

Google Maps horror :

Wrong #GPS location took the lives of 3 people in #Bareilly, #UttarPradesh#GoogleMaps directed a car to a half-finished bridge.

Due to dense #fog, the incomplete bridge was not visible and the car falls into the #RamgangaRiver, resulting in the death of… pic.twitter.com/uTCMKTz7xG

— Surya Reddy (@jsuryareddy) November 24, 2024

Technology Reliance Raises Concerns

This incident highlights a growing issue of overreliance on GPS technology, especially in areas where infrastructure is poorly mapped or outdated. While digital maps provide convenience, errors, insufficient updates, or incomplete data can lead to catastrophic consequences, as seen in Bareilly.

Local officials urge drivers to exercise caution when navigating unfamiliar areas and verify routes with locals, especially in rural or flood-prone regions.

Infrastructure Fix Demanded

Residents are demanding immediate repairs to the bridge or, at the very least, the installation of prominent barricades and warning signs to prevent future tragedies.

“This was a preventable accident,” a relative of one of the victims said. “If proper warnings were in place, these lives could have been saved.”

As Bareilly mourns the loss of Kaushal, Vivek, and Amit, the community hopes this tragedy will serve as a wake-up call for improved road safety measures in the region.

RELATED CONTENT: UNESCO Study Reveals Most Influencers Fail To Verify Information Before Sharing

• News

by Ida Harris

November 28, 2024

Support Your Girlfriends Pow(H)er Experience + Awards Is A Movement For The Greater Good

Nikkia McClain continues to evolve and elevate those who are doing good in the community

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Thanksgiving came early for the 2024 attendees and honorees of Tene Nicole’s Support Your Girlfriends Pow(H)er Experience + Awards. The event, founded by Nikkia McClain, is in its sixth year. It has provided a space for networking, professional development, and resources for entrepreneurs through a series of panels and workshops. The Pow(H)er Awards ceremony continues to celebrate Black excellence and leadership supported by Grow with Google, Novartis, Barbados Tourism, and Chase for Business among others.

The Pow(H)er Experience kicked off at Jay Suites in the Bryant Park section of New York City and offered visitors health activations around preventative and restorative care. The Black Heart Association was on site with mobile services offering genetics testing and information about heart diseases that plague Black communities at an alarming rate, and URAWarrior was on hand to share details about the newly released app and facilitate onboarding for users to access mental health resources.

The robust programming was preceded by opening remarks from Dr. McClain, who encouraged participants to lean into the sessions that consisted of a wealth of topics:

Building a Network of Navigating Your Cash Flow
Sisterhood & Community
The Power of Getting Your Ask Together Turning Your Passion into Profit
How to Invest with Less Emotions Even in a Viable Market
Empow(H)ering Leaders to Transform Adversity into Opportunity
Seen & Paid: Transform Your Story into Media, Speaking & Sales Success
Support Her: Men Advocating for Women’s Personal Success
How to Pitch Your First VC
Transitioning from Corporate to Purposeful Entrepreneur
Balancing Act: Navigating Women’s Health & Wellness Strategies
Get to Know Your Money

Day one concluded with “The Power of YOU” fireside chat between Desiree Perez and social justice advocate Tamika D. Mallory.

The awards dinner went down on day two and was the culmination of all things pink, empow(H)ering, supportive, and celebratory among attendees, honorees, and the notable Glossy Posse. Mistress of Ceremonies Lyndsay Levingston wowed audience members with her emcee prowess by giving an honoree roll-call over Lil Kim’s “Jump Off.” Six women were honored with the 2024 UnapologeticallyHER honor.

Cheryl Stallings: Business
Sharene Wood: Entrepreneurship
Tara Robinson: Health
Shaquanna “Ms. Business 101” Brooks: Finance
Nit Reeder: Social Impact
Amber Sabathia: Philanthropy

Sharene Wood, founder of Harlem Haberdashery, gave a heartfelt acceptance speech to family members who were in attendance: “I honored, I’m here because my mother loved me,” Wood said.

“I’m here because my brother loves me. To my husband and friend, thank you for your support. Thank you to my beautiful baby girl.”

Wood continued: “You are everything I dreamed of and I work just for you. Just so you know, when I talk about legacy, I talk about you. When I talk about legacy, I talk about my brother.”

The 2024 Pow(H)er Women of the Year and Power (H)IM Man of the Year awards went to music icon and cultural powerhouse Queen Bee Kimberly “Lil Kim” Jones and CBS News Correspondent Nate Burleson.

Burleson could not be present for his award but sent a thoughtful virtual message, and his wife, Atoya Burleson, accepted the honor on his behalf. Lil Kim was extremely grateful for the honor and thanked McClain directly, along with the attendees.

“Everyone in here made a difference in my life because when I look at all my girls who are doing it, y’all are the people. I’m talking about them bosses,” Kim said.

“I want to thank y’all for supporting me for all these years because I couldn’t do it if you guys didn’t keep elevating me and pushing me … I just want to say, I see all of y’all and thank you so much for all these beautiful years.”

Dr. McClain, who also balances multiple businesses while completing her PhD, took to the stage to honor her personal support team—her staff, her grandparents, and her husband and children. After a sweet twerk session with her grandmother, the Support Your Girlfriends founder posed a rhetorical question to the room on how she’s able to accomplish all that she does.

“I’m able to show up the way I do for you now because these people over here are holding me down,” McClain said, referencing her family.

“Y’all get a small piece of me when they get all of me. But even in that small piece of giving it to you all, I give as much as I can so even it feels like 100%.”

“I just want to thank you all for sharing me. I love y’all. I couldn’t be here without you. Thank you a lot of you for believing in me.”

After six years, the Support Your Girlfriends movement and Pow(H)er Experience + Awards continue evolving and elevating those doing good in the community. To learn more about the initiative, check out the website.

RELATED CONTENT: Support Your Girlfriends Hosts 6th Annual Pow(H)er Awards, Honoring Lil Kim And Nate Burleson

• News

by Keka Araújo

November 28, 2024

UNESCO Study Reveals Most Influencers Fail To Verify Information Before Sharing

UNESCO warned that the “low prevalence of fact-checking highlights influencers’ vulnerability to misinformation, which can have far-reaching consequences for public trust and discourse.”

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According to a study published Tuesday by UNESCO, the UN’s scientific and cultural agency, most social media influencers fail to verify the accuracy of the content they share. The report underscores the growing risks of misinformation in an era where influencers play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion.

The study, conducted in August and September 2024, surveyed 500 influencers from 45 countries with at least 1,000 followers. It found that 62% of respondents admitted they did not fact-check their content. While 37% occasionally consulted fact-checking sites, many relied on subjective measures, such as a source’s popularity or input from trusted friends, rather than documented evidence.

UNESCO warned that the “low prevalence of fact-checking highlights influencers’ vulnerability to misinformation, which can have far-reaching consequences for public trust and discourse.”

Influencers’ Role in Shaping Public Perception

The findings are particularly concerning given that nearly 40% of young Americans aged 18 to 29 “regularly” get their news from influencers, according to a Pew Research Center study. These influencers often lack the formal training of journalists, relying on personal experiences or social media trends as their primary sources of information.

Notably, 42% of influencers surveyed said they judged a source’s credibility by the number of likes or views received, while only 17% prioritized documentation and evidence. Despite this, 69% believed they were promoting “critical thinking and digital literacy” among their audiences.

Misinformation’s Real-World Impact

The report comes from the 2024 U.S. presidential election, where social media influencers were crucial in disseminating information. President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris leveraged influencers and podcasters with massive followings to appeal directly to voters.

UNESCO noted that the lack of rigorous fact-checking by influencers has real-world implications. Earlier this year, false claims about migrants in Springfield, Ohio, stealing and eating pets went viral, fueled by right-wing influencers. Despite local officials’ attempts to debunk the rumors, the misinformation led to bomb threats, school closures, and widespread fear in the community.

Governments and social media platforms have struggled to combat such misinformation. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) rely on “Community Notes” features for fact-checking but often fail to remove false content. Similarly, YouTube banned the monetization of election-related misinformation and profited from such videos.

Opaque Funding and Sponsored Content

Another concern is transparency in influencer funding. According to the UNESCO study, 53% of respondents said they created sponsored content, but 7% admitted they did not disclose sponsorships, presenting such content as unsponsored.

This lack of transparency can further erode trust in the information influencers share, especially as some unwittingly promote divisive narratives funded by foreign actors. In September, a U.S. Justice Department indictment revealed that Russia unknowingly paid several conservative influencers to spread misinformation, although they were not accused of wrongdoing.

Calls for Media Literacy

UNESCO emphasized the need to enhance media literacy among influencers, advocating for tools and training to help creators identify credible sources and verify facts. “The prevalent lack of rigorous critical evaluation of information highlights an urgent need to enhance creators’ media and information literacy skills,” the organization said.

While some influencers, like UK journalist Kassy Cho, use mainstream media as a baseline for content creation, many others, like China-based influencer Zhang Zhaoyuan, rely solely on personal experiences. This disparity illustrates the broader challenges in ensuring accuracy across the digital content landscape.

As social media continues to dominate the information ecosystem, the need for accountability and transparency among influencers has never been greater.

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• Business

by Kandiss Edwards

November 28, 2024

Black Friday Streaming Deal And The Black Shows That Make It Worth The Subscription

If you cut the cord on these streaming services it might be time to re-enroll.

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It’s time to break out the credit cards and cash in on the 2024 Black Friday deals. If you are a cord-cutter who has opted out of traditional cable television service, now is the time to save some coins.

According to Forbes, 99% of households have at least one active streaming service “paying an average of $46/month.” If you are between services or refused to subscribe due to cost, now is the time. These Black Friday deals can save an average subscriber hundreds of dollars yearly. There are multiple streaming bundles, add-ons, and yearly deals averaging less than $5/month.  

HULU 

If you don’t have a HULU account, you are missing out. Reasonable Doubt is the reason to renew or join HULU. For the low price of $0.99/month, you can watch Emayatzy Corinealdi, Sean Patrick Thomas, and  Morris Chestnut engage in messy relationships and Black lawyer excellence.

Disney+ (HULU Bundle)

The Disney+ Hulu Bundle will be on sale for $2.99/month. Rewatch Disney’s own New Orleans Princess, Tiana. Or New Orlean’s own superhero, Anthony Mackie. Mackie’s portrayal as Captain America began in the Marvel Universe. Catch up on the character’s journey before the release of the new Captain America: Brave New World. 

MAX

MAX is not one of the cheaper options on the list. The elite streaming services, formerly HBO, can be bundled with HULU and Disney+ for $16.99/month. The bundle is a 3-for-1 that is well worth the money. Subscribing to MAX gives you access to Micheal K. Williams and Idris Elba in their critically acclaimed roles on The Wire.

Starz (HULU add-on)

For $0.99/month added to your Hulu account, you can enjoy 50 Cent’s Power Verse. Though the Power spin-off, Power Book 1, is ending, critically acclaimed Raising Kanan and BMF are going strong. If that isn’t your cup of tea, you can always go down to P-Valley when it finally returns for the long-awaited fourth season. 

Peacock 

Bel Air, the dramatic adaptation of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, is excellent. In a world of stale reboots, it is a breath of fresh, innovative air. 

BET+

If you’re saved and sanctified or just want a little wholesome humor, Churchy on BET+ is for you. This Black Friday, BET+ is being offered as an Amazon add-on for $2.75/month. Conceptualized by comedian KevOnStage, Churchy will give you an absurdly hilarious and nostalgic glance at Sunday service. 

AMC

Actor Harald Perineau stars in the psychological thriller From, which is approaching its third season. AMC+ will be offered for $1.25/month with ads or $2.25/month ad-free.

Black Friday streaming service deals are already available from Nov. 27 through Dec. 2 on the official streaming sites. 

RELATED CONTENT: Leading Human Hair Supplier For Black Women Announces Black Friday Sale 2024

• News

by Kandiss Edwards

November 28, 2024

Slutty Vegan Is Searching For A New President

Slutty Vegan wants its next president to be an innovator.

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The Slutty Vegan is looking for a new face to run its empire, according to the vegan restaurant’s Instagram.

The chain is seeking a candidate to take over the top lead position. The first president of the establishment, Jason Crain, was hired in 2022. According to LinkedIn, Crain left the position in March 2024. The solicitation for applicants cites the need for an eclectic candidate with understanding, 10 years of experience, and a creative disposition that looks toward the future. 

“This isn’t just a job….it’s a movement. If you’re a visionary leader passionate about innovation and the strategic chops to grow a brand with purpose, we want YOU.” The post continues, “As the President of Slutty Vegan, you’ll be the driving force behind our operations, growth, and impact. You’ll work directly with our CEO to shape the future of the brand.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Slutty Vegan ATL (@sluttyveganatl)

Slutty Vegan’s CEO and Founder, Pinky Cole Hayes, has been working hard to build both the Slutty Vegan brand along with her personal brand. BLACK ENTERPRISE reported on Cole Hayes’s recent appointment as REVOLT’s Creative Visionary In Residence. In a press release, the 36-year-old entrepreneur spoke about what she hopes to contribute to Black culture during her residency. 

“As someone deeply committed to challenging norms and amplifying Black voices, this is an incredible opportunity to collaborate with like-minded creatives and bring dynamic projects to life. Together, we will continue pushing boundaries, inspiring change, and shaping the cultural landscape for generations to come.”

Since opening the flagship Slutty Vegan restaurant in 2018, Cole Hayes has been steadily scaling her empire. The restaurant boasts 11 locations across the South and East U.S. She is the author of I Hope You Fail and consistently engages in philanthropic endeavors through The Pinky Cole Foundation.

RELATED CONTENT: Slutty Vegan’s PVegan’sle Hayes To Join Revolt As Creative Visionary In Residence

• Arts and Culture

by Kandiss Edwards

November 28, 2024

Wendy Williams Is ‘Permanently Incapacitated’ According To Court Filing

Wendy Williams's attorney claims her dementia is permanently debilitating.

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According to the New York Post, Wendy Williams will not return to daytime TV. On Nov. 12, Williams’s attorneys filed suit against the Lifetime network, revealing that the Wendy Williams TV show host is permanently debilitated.

Sabrina Morrissey, attorney for Williams, reveals the former daytime television star is experiencing severe cognitive decline. The decline inhibits Williams from conducting business and making decisions with a sound mind. Morrissey filed suit against the Lifetime Network for creating the Where Is Wendy Williams? documentary.

The filing claimed the defendants — Lifetime’s parent company, A&E Television Networks, Lifetime Entertainment Services, EOne Productions, Creature Films, and the doc’s executive producer, Mark Ford — ‘cruelly took advantage of [Williams’] cognitive and physical decline by creating and publishing a documentary at a time when [Williams] was highly vulnerable and incapable of consenting to be filmed,’” the New York Post reported. 

The defendants filed a countersuit claiming Williams negotiated, signed, and gave creative direction on the docu-series production before her diagnosis. The co-defendants claim Morrissey’s filing is an attempt by the attorney to deflect her personal responsibility as a guardian. 

They claim Morrissey filed suit in a “misguided effort to attempt to excuse her failure to protect her ward.”

In 2022, Williams was placed under a controversial court-ordered guardianship due to her alleged alcohol abuse and mental decline. The star’s finances and bodily autonomy were placed under the care of an independent guardian at the behest of Wells Fargo Bank. The banking institution claims William’s financial transactions became erratic and raised concerns, leading the bank to freeze the radio hosts’ assets.

Wells Fargo’s intrusion into WIlliam’s financials led to the star being diagnosed with alcohol-related brain damage and frontotemporal dementia. The diagnosis prompted Morrissey’s appointment as manager of William’s estate and personal medical care. Williams’ family claims Morrissey’s guardianship led to familial alienation from her immediate family, including her son Kevin Hunter Jr. The family claims Williams’s location is kept a secret from her family, and her contact with them has been limited.

RELATED CONTENT: Kevin Hunter Alleges Wendy Williams Hid $48M During Divorce, Demands Judgment Be Vacated

• News

by Kandiss Edwards

November 28, 2024

Lil Wayne Honored On ‘NOLA Walk Of Fame’

Lil Wayne may not have received a slot at the Super Bowl but New Orleans still showed him love.

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New Orleans is set to add a new attraction to the historically rich Southern city. The “NOLA Walk Of Fame” is being commissioned to celebrate the native artists and advocates who helped shape the perception of the Crescent City. 

Its inaugural class will feature rap icon Dwayne “Lil Wayne” Carter Jr. The NOLA Walk of Fame is the brainchild of New Orleans rapper, businessman, and rap legend Percy “Master P” Miller, who serves as the city’s entertainment ambassador.

According to Channel 4 New Orleans, the construction of the Walk of Fame comes amid New Orleans hosting the 2025 Super Bowl. As the event draws closer, New Orleans is making its best attempts to make a good presentation on the world stage. Mayor LaTonya Cantrell spoke about the “importance” of the walk and its honorees.

“As we continue preparations to host Super Bowl LIX, it is of huge importance that we honor and recognize the diverse group of notable individuals who make up the beautiful fabric of our city.” 

Wayne is one of 50 New Orleans natives who received the honor. At the inaugural Weezyana Fest, Mayor Cantrell awarded the Mr.Carter rapper the key to the city. During the presentation, Feb. 6 and 7 were named Lil Wayne Day.

A founding member of the Hot Boys, Wayne was visibly emotional as Mayor Cantrell professed the city’s love and reverence for their native son.

“This is your city saying to you, you matter for generations to come. For the work you have done, what you are doing and what you will continue to do.”

Though the Mr. Carter emcee is a proud New Orleans native, he has recently held a public grudge against the city. Wayne felt slighted after the NFL announced Kendrick Lamar as the half-time performer for the Super Bowl. At the Weezyana Fest, where he was honored, the rap icon took to the stage to express his dismay for not receiving the primetime slot. 

“It was ripped away from me,” he said.

Even though he may feel slighted, the lyricist’s hometown is showing its love and fondness for his contributions. Weezyana Fest will hopefully be a staple for the city, like Essence Fest, and his name will be paved into the foundation of the city for generations. 
Wayne’s Fluer De Lis plaque will be on Canal Place and Rampart St. 

RELATED CONTENT: Florida Man Pleads Guilty To $1 Million COVID-19 Relief Scam

• Health and Wellness

by Daniel Johnson

November 28, 2024

Research Suggests Religion Boosts Interest In Life Extension For Black Americans

The interest in life-extending technology among Black Americans is usually related to community-centered motivations in contrast to white Americans’ individualistic motives.

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According to new research from Rice University, the University of South Carolina, and Purdue University, religion has the effect of increasing the desire of Black Americans to engage with life-extending technologies.

According to a news release by Rice University, interest in life-extending technology among Black Americans is usually related to community-centered motivations in contrast to white Americans’ individualistic motives.

Elaine Howard Ecklund, the study’s principal investigator, the Herbert S. Autrey Chair, Professor of Sociology, and the director of the Boniak Institute for the Study of the Advancement of Religious Tolerance at Rice University, shared that various factors make Black people’s use of religion produce curiosity about life-extending technology.

Jacqui Frost, the study’s lead author and an assistant professor of sociology at Purdue University, noted that Black and white Americans approach life extension with varying levels of suspicion.

“For instance, Black Americans’ belief in the compatibility of science and religion appears to bolster their support for life extension more than it does among white adults, where religious beliefs are often linked to skepticism toward scientific intervention in natural life processes,” Frost said.

According to Rachel Schneider, a co-author of the study and the director of the Religion and Public Life Center at the Boniak Institute, “With advancements in medical and anti-aging research, projections suggest that lifespans could extend dramatically, reaching up to 120 to 200 years by the end of the century,” Schneider said.

Schneider continued, “As the movement for life extension gathers momentum, we hope this research will encourage more work on how religious, racial and cultural factors shape public support for such technologies. Understanding the different ways Americans approach the question of life extension is critical as society navigates the potential for unprecedented changes in human lifespan.”

According to the study’s abstract, this research contradicts previous research on religion’s impact on attitudes toward life-extending technologies.

“Past research suggests that those most likely to be interested in life extension technologies are nonreligious and White. However, we draw on theories in sociology of religion to examine how race and religion might intersect to shape attitudes about life extension. We find that Black Americans are significantly more interested in life extension than White Americans, and while religiosity decreases interest in life extension among White Americans, religiosity increases interest for Black Americans. And we find that Black and Hispanic Americans are more likely than White Americans to cite other-oriented and religious reasons over self-oriented reasons for wanting to extend their lives, such as ‘divine purpose’ and a desire to contribute more to society.”

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