by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman
October 15, 2024
Atlanta Wine & Jazz Festival Postponed 4 Times, Frustrating Ticket Holders With ‘No Refund’ Policy
The festival has pushed its date for a fourth time, now taking place in August 2025.
The Atlanta Wine and Jazz Festival has officially been postponed again, now for the fourth time. The event, which was initially meant to take place in May, is now set for August 2025.
Festival organizers have frustrated ticket holders with its continued delays, as the third iteration of the event has yet to come to fruition. The organizers shared the unfortunate news with their social media pages. However, they cited a slew of charge disputes as the reason for pushing it back.
“Although this event openly marketed NO REFUNDS, ALL SALES ARE FINAL, We had a overwhelming amount of attendees running to banks filing disputes, which is still increasing today an upward of 30% credit and bank disputes,” wrote the festival organizers.
The post continued, “Due to high number of chargebacks. We are forced to postponed until Saturday, August 30th, 2025, at Grant Park and rebrand this event with new all new artists.”
While the festival maintains its no refund policy, ticket holders believe that this stance lacks accountability for their assumed poor planning.
“I just, I couldn’t believe that the promoter was putting the blame on the people, who, at this point, have no faith that this is even going to happen. There was no accountability at all,” shared a ticket buyer, Tiah Doggett, to Fox 5.
Doggett was looking forward to attending the event in May, but inclement weather stunted its initial time. Now, as the festival remains in limbo, the Georgia resident wants to ease her losses with a refund.
“I’m just at a loss,” said Doggett. “I just want my money back.”
Evidently, others share the same sentiment. This frustration led to a significant number of chargebacks as the festival struggles to regain its footing. Following its May cancellation, the festival changed its date from September to August before settling for Oct. 12 at a new location.
Doggett emphasized that ticket prices ranged from general admission to costs in the thousands. However, despite honoring current ticket holders for the 2025 timeslot, some jaded attendees may possibly take up the matter in small claims court.
RELATED CONTENT: ANDRE 3000 (AND HIS FLUTE) RETURN TO ATLANTA FOR FREE JAZZ FEST
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton
October 15, 2024
Bow Wow’s Mention Of ‘Missing Diddy Parties’ Gets Him Slammed On Social Media
'There was no motion, there was no parties, there was nowhere to go.'
The world has been peeking in on the Sean “Diddy” Combs case after the executive was arrested on charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution. With most people paying attention to the alleged “Freak-off parties” facing the most scrutiny for the purported drug use, sexcapades, and illegal activities, it brought shock and condemnation when rapper and actor Bow Wow stated in a recent podcast that he misses the Diddy parties.
The 37-year-old recording artist was a guest on the More To The Story with Rocsi Diaz podcast recently when the “Like You” rapper was questioned about Diddy’s latest predicament. She asked him his thoughts on what had been reported. After admitting that he is not fearful of being mentioned because he wasn’t involved with any of it, he responds in disbelief that it’s going on.
“It seems unreal at times. I know me, and Jermaine spoke about, and I was like, ‘I never thought we would see him in this position. Ever.’”
Diaz even asked about the rumors that have been going around for years, and is he surprised at his being arrested. After Bow Wow said no, he explained that it doesn’t “feel right” knowing there is no Diddy party taking place.
“He’s like the gatekeeper to the game. To the point, where like BET Awards weekend? The past two, they just didn’t feel right ’cause there was no motion, there was no parties, there was nowhere to go.”
When he brought up that he attended the parties Diddy has given and mentioned that Diaz was also there, Diaz clarifies that she never stayed past 1 a.m. and admitted to only attending two and never going to the purported freak-offs. However, Bow Wow did state that he was separating the artist from the person accused of crimes.
“I’m separating it. I’m talking about him as the artist the person. How monumental and important he was to the culture. You feel it. It’s like a hole. He was just such a gatekeeper. From the liquor in the clubs…He was everything hip-hop. For that to die out, it’s like you just would have never thought.”
Yet, the internet took his missing the Diddy parties to mean that he was also involved in the alleged freak-offs and went after him with fervently.
Bow Wow is itching and scratching for a Freak Off party bruh 🤣
— luh supper ✭ (@All_Cake88) October 14, 2024
He trippin pic.twitter.com/ifxmlnaFQW
— Chip Snackson (@CSnackson) October 14, 2024
Considering current circumstances to be saying this is wild
— . (@media_beyond) October 14, 2024
Thats very tone dead of Bow Wow,to hear people were sexually abused and drugged to the point of catatonia and being revived by IV fluids during these parties he is lamenting and STILL go on and cry over the loss of those parties?child?is you stupid? or you just do not care?
— Eulitah Dube : A Kalanga. (@EueUnbothered) October 15, 2024
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by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton
October 15, 2024
Mayor Eric Adams Clowned After Wearing Cap Featuring Both NYC Baseball Teams
With both New York baseball teams doing well in the playoffs with the possibility of a “subway series” (meaning you can attend all the games by taking the subway in New York City) between the New York Mets and the New York Yankees, the mayor of New York City, Eric Adams has found a way to support both teams, yet get chastised for not selecting a side.
With a storied rivalry between the two New York City teams from the Bronx (Yankees) and Queens (Mets), the embattled Mayor Adams appeared at the Columbus Day Parade on Oct. 14 wearing a baseball cap that didn’t sit well with New York baseball fans. Instead of picking one team over the other if they do happen to meet in the World Series, in a city that’s divided between the organizations, Mayor Adams wore a cap that featured both teams.
Umm pic.twitter.com/pjN9BTer5b
— Craig McCarthy (@createcraig) October 14, 2024
The appearance of trying to stay neutral did not go over well with die-hard New Yorkers.
The New York Post reported that the baseball cap on the head of the mayor was from the last World Series appearance that both teams played in back in 2000. The Yankees beat the Mets the last time the two met in the baseball championship.
The mayor is already facing calls for him to resign after he became the first sitting New York City mayor to be indicted on federal charges. Included in the indictment are unsealed charges that accuse him of “corrupting his office and defrauding the public by accepting foreign campaign contributions in exchange for favorable treatment,” according to Law360.com. The mayor’s administration has been facing a probe over the past year regarding potential illegal foreign donations from officials in Turkey during Adams’ 2021 mayoral campaign.
With the way fans responded to the social media posting of the photo, the jury pool will be a harsh one for the mayor.
won’t be the last time he wears orange
— Sports Steady Tv (@SportsSteadyTV) October 15, 2024
“How To Make Yourself Even More Hateable: A Concise Guide To Pandering” – by Eric Adams
— Joshua Robert (@JoshuaRobert56) October 14, 2024
Add this hat to the charges
— max honkhimer (@ApesOfAColdGod) October 14, 2024
Another reason to throw him in jail.
— CK (@CKCash30) October 15, 2024
That’s worse than cheering for one team over the other. Absolutely no one cheers for both teams.
— Toedipper (@NFT_toedipper) October 14, 2024
RELATED CONTENT: NYC Protestors Call Mayor Eric Adams ‘A Disgrace’ After Federal Indictment
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman
October 15, 2024
‘Issa’ Prosecco Drop: Issa Rae Releases Viarae Rosé Sparkling Prosecco
The actress has a lot to pour a glass for in her growing business portfolio.
Issa Rae expanded her Viarae Prosecco brand with a newly released rosé. The sparkling wine has begun offering this refreshing, fruity version this month.
The Insecure actress and created launched Viarae in October 2023, with its growing popularity catapulting it to nationwide retailers in spring 2024. The award-winning wine hopes to continue its success by finding a wider audience through its offering of rosé. Derived from high-quality Glera and Pinot Noir grapes, this signature blend hosts notes of ripe raspberry, strawberry, and peach, while adding a bright hint of sweetness to every glass.
“The success of Viarae Prosecco has been incredible, and I’m so proud of how it’s resonated with everyone,” stated Rae in a press release shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE. “Now, I’m beyond excited to expand the Viarae line with the introduction of Viarae Prosecco Rosé. It’s the perfect next step, bringing even more vibrant, celebratory energy to the table. I can’t wait for everyone to experience this new addition.”
Viarae is one of Rae’s many entrepreneurial efforts, which also includes Hoorae, her multi-media production company. It follows her mission to build a legacy for creatives of color no matter the industry. Furthermore, its continued growth hopes to secure Rae as a mogul in her own right.
“Viarae Prosecco has redefined the sparkling wine experience with its unique blend of tradition and innovation,” wrote Carmen Maria Navarro, Senior Director of Marketing at GALLO. “The introduction of Viarae Prosecco Rosé is a testament to the brand’s and Issa Rae’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and diversity, offering a refreshing and sophisticated option that is sure to delight both new and seasoned wine consumers.”
The actress has a lot to pour a glass for in her growing business portfolio. For those who also want to indulge in the bubbly spirit, Viarae Prosecco Rosé is available now.
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How To Use Rejection For Your Elevation
by Daniel Johnson
October 15, 2024
Trump Criticized After Violent, Extremist Rhetoric At Coachella Rally
Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, told supporters during a campaign stop in Green Bay, Wisconsin that Trump's suggestion that he will use the National Guard or the United States military to respond to dissenters disgusted him.
While Vice President Kamala Harris was in North Carolina assisting victims of Hurricane Helene by packing care packages, former President Donald Trump was campaigning in solidly liberal Coachella, California.
According to The Independent, at one point in the Oct. 12 rally, Trump was heckled by a woman in the crowd. He responded to the interruption of the rally by returning to a theme that was prevalent during his 2016 rallies, threatening violence to dissenters.
“This election is your chance to send a message,” Trump said, before turning around to face the crowd which was booing a heckler. “Back home to mommy. She goes back home to mommy. ‘Was that you, darling?’ And then she gets the hell knocked out of her,” Trump remarked.
Despite the identity of the heckler being unclear at the time, Trump also claimed the woman’s mother was a supporter of his, “Her mother’s a big fan of ours, you know that, right?”
Trump also continued his extremist rhetoric at the rally, at several points referring to Election Day as “liberation day,” calling the United States an “occupied country,” and claiming that migrants are “taking over” states. Trump also said, “It’s no different really than if we lost a war.”
On social media, some of the responses to Trump’s rhetoric around the heckler questioned the sincerity of his earlier pledge to be a protector of women.
According to Politico reporter Daniel Lippman, Trump’s rhetoric has only gotten darker as the campaign has gone on.
“I think he feels like the walls have closed in on him, that he faces potential jail time in criminal cases,” Lippman told CNN. “If he loses this election, then there is a good chance that he will go to prison so this is almost an existential battle for him to not be put in an orange jumpsuit.”
According to CNN, Vice President Harris was critical of Trump’s comments about an “enemy from within” at her own rally on Oct 14.
“You heard his words, coming from him. He’s talking about the enemy within … he’s talking about that he considers anyone that doesn’t support him, or who will not bend to his will, an enemy of our country,” Harris said.
Harris continued, “He’s saying he would use the military to go after them … and we know who he would target because he has attacked them before: journalists whose stories he doesn’t like, election officials who refuse to cheat by finding extra votes for him, judges who insist on following the law instead of bending to his will. This is among the reasons I believe so strongly that a second Trump term would be a huge risk for America, and dangerous.”
Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, told supporters during a campaign stop in Green Bay, Wisconsin that Trump’s suggestion that he will use the National Guard or the United States military to respond to dissenters disgusted him.
“As someone who wore this nation’s uniform proudly, as someone who now is the commander In chief of the Minnesota National Guard, the idea of sending US military personnel against American citizens makes me sick to my stomach,” Walz said. “We’ll let the lawyers decide if what he said was treason. But what I know is, it’s a call for violence, plain and simple, and it’s pretty damn un-American if you ask me.”
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by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman
October 15, 2024
Early Voting Is Now Open In Georgia, Here’s What You Need To Know
Before one makes their vote count this election, it is important to know where and how to vote early.
With Early Voting now open in Georgia and other states, here’s what voters need to know before heading to the polls.
According to Vote.org, early voting in the Peach State begins the fourth Monday before Election Day, or that Tuesday if the original date falls on a holiday. As Indigenous People’s Day, also called Columbus Day, fell on Oct. 14, this led to early voting beginning that Tuesday.
First, it is never too safe to double-check and make sure that one is registered to vote or that a voter status is listed as active. However, before making your vote count this election, it is important to look up or contact your county’s Office of Election and Voter Registration to know how to vote early. In some cases, where a voter has cast their ballot for previous elections may differ during early voting.
Most early voting only occurs at a local election office. This contrasts with one’s neighborhood polling places, like a church or school. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, every county in Georgia will have at least one location to vote early. Understanding exactly when and where one must go can save time, and make the voting process more efficient for all.
Moreover, a Georgia law passed in 2021 prohibits the passing of food and drink to voters while waiting in line. Voters can bring their refreshments, and, especially with fewer people expected to vote by mail following the ease of COVID-19 restrictions, long lines may occur. Preparing for one’s trip to the polls will promote safety and help soothe any fatigue caused by unexpected wait times.
For the General Election, ballots will differ based on political affiliation and county. However, what mostly everyone will find is the vote for the presidential candidates, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, as well as any applicable national and state congressional races. For Georgians, questions regarding constitutional amendments may also show up as well. One can view their sample ballot via the State of Georgia’s website.
Early voting provides flexibility and accessibility when one cannot easily make it on Election Day, on Nov. 5 this year. However, knowing the small yet distinct differences with voting early can ensure the process works to one’s best benefit. As Georgia remains a key swing state this election, all residents wanting to take part in the election must get out the vote.
Early voting in Georgia ends the Friday before Election Day.
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by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton
October 15, 2024
NYC Fire Department Captain And Rapper, Ka, Dies At 52
Kaseem Ryan died in his hometown of New York City on October 12.
According to a post on his Instagram account, recording artist and New York City Fire Department Captain Ka, whose real name is Kaseem Ryan, died unexpectedly on Oct. 12. He was 52.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Kaseem Ryan (1972-2024), the rapper and producer known as Ka, who died unexpectedly in New York City on October 12, at the age of 52. Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service – to his city, to his community, and his music. As a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department, he put his life on the line to protect his fellow citizens. Ka rose to the rank of FDNY captain and was a first responder on September 11, 2001, during the attacks on the World Trade Center.
“He leaves an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist, including eleven remarkable self-released solo albums. Ka is survived by his wife, mother and sister. We kindly ask that the privacy of Ka’s family and loved ones be respected as they grieve this incalculable loss.”
View this post on Instagram
No cause of death was revealed.
According to Variety, the rapper just released an album, The Thief Next to Jesus, in August.
Although he worked at NYFD and was a first responder during the 9/11 terrorist attack, he also released 11 albums independently. He started his independent music career in the 1990s as a member of the group Natural Elements. Then, before becoming a solo artist, he was part of a duo named Nightbreed with Kev. He released his first solo project in 2008, Iron Works.
Ka is survived by his mother, sister, and his wife, Mimi Valdé, a longtime respected journalist and producer. She was the editor-in-chief at VIBE years ago and is a producer on Pharrell Wiliams’ recently released LEGO autobiography film, Piece By Piece. She acknowledged her husband in a recent social media post.
“My king, my hero, my best friend. You will always be my everything because love like ours lasts forever. Rest my beautiful husband, see you on the other side. ✨❤️✨❤️✨❤️”
View this post on Instagram
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by Black Enterprise
October 15, 2024
7 Secret Weapons To Crush Self-Doubt And Skyrocket Your Career
Have a question about navigating difficult spaces
Hey FairyGodMentor,
I don’t know if it’s Imposter Syndrome or what, but I know that being my own worst critic is getting in the way of how I’m showing up at work. How do you suggest that I lose that fear and silence that self-sabotaging voice in my head?
Thanks in advance,
Inner Critical
Dear Inner Critical,
I am the Apollo Creed of beating myself up! It takes a lot of intentional practice and positive self-talk. The best way to tame the fear is the shed some light on the matter. How do I turn on the lights?
1. Name Your Emotions: A huge part of self-sabotage is hearing those negative voices in your head and believing them. Just because it’s being said doesn’t always mean it’s true. Negative self-talk comes from fear and insecurities. One way to tame that fear and shed light is to name the emotions that are coming through for you. Having that self-awareness can help you identify your emotions and ultimately manage them.
2. Personify Your Inner Critic: I named my negative self-talk monster Davita. She was a childhood friend that got me in trouble — a lot. My negative thoughts pop up a lot of times when I’m feeling less confident. I tell Davita daily to be quiet or to go away. Listening to her in the past only got me in trouble.
3. Reframe Negative Thoughts: I also find myself correcting negative thoughts like when I make a mistake. I am gentler with myself. I’ll say something like “You’re not stupid. You’ve never done something like this before. You’re human and you made a mistake.” Think about it this way, would you speak this harshly to a loved one? No. So why would you speak this way to yourself?
4. Practice Daily Meditation: Another thing to keep the negative monsters at bay, I meditate daily for at least 5 minutes. I use that time to ground myself and set the intention for the day. My mantra is “I am WELL” (Worthy, Enough, Love, Light).
5. Visualize Success: If I have a presentation, negotiation conversation, networking event, or even a coaching call, I visualize how it will go. I see the audience engaging with me, and hearing the “YES” to my pitch. I do my best to be gentle with myself as much as possible.
6. Lean on Your Support System: I also lean on my support system. Your support system can look like friends, family, a trusted co-worker, mentor or a therapist. I share how I am feeling. It’s not always easy and sometimes I may need a little help hearing how I’m thinking about myself. My husband will often reflect on what I’m saying so I can audibly hear how mean I’m being with myself. Sometimes you need a mirror.
7. Celebrate Small Wins: Finally, one of my favorite impostor syndrome busters is to celebrate the small wins. At 7 p.m., my timer goes off and asks me what am I celebrating and grateful for today. This is my DIG Folder reminder. (Remember DIG stands for Damn I’m Good!) I track all types of personal and professional wins and lessons learned daily for each month. As I scroll down the list, I can see all of the cool things I did or thought. It’s a great self-sabotage booster.
Remember, Inner Critic, you belong in that room, that role, and this world. Reframing that negative monster in your mind takes daily practice but you got this!
Yours truly,
Your FairyGodMentor®
Joyel Crawford is an award-winning career and leadership development professional and the founder of Crawford Leadership Strategies, a consultancy that develops empowered, results-driven leaders through engaging leadership development coaching, training, and facilitation. She is the author of the best-selling book and audiobook Show Your Ask: Using Your Voice to Advocate for Yourself and Your Career.
Have a question about handling a micromanager, are you having difficulty navigating spaces because of your hair, is work stressing you out, do you need support coaching poor performance or are you wondering how to negotiate and get the job offer you desire effectively? Do you have any questions about career and leadership development?
Ask Your FairyGodMentor® here.