Flava Fav, Clock
Photo credit: Darian Cabot, Wikimedia Commons, CCA

Flavor Flav Auctions Trademark Clock To Combat Racism

The winning bidder bought the clock for $15,000.


The Black Music Action Coalition held an event Oct. 3 in Beverly Hills and unexpectedly, former Public Enemy group member Flavor Flav placed his trademark signature clock up for auction.

According to Billboard, the Long Island-bred entertainer put up his clock to help raise money for the organization. The former reality TV star jumped on stage to showcase the timepiece and told the audience, “I want to auction off my clock, man.” He made a bold claim with what he felt the piece of jewelry would get. “We can go to $80,000 or $90,000 for this clock.”

Although the clock did not get that high of a bid, it was taken home by a bidder who put up $15,000 for the personal item from Flav.

The $15,000 spent on the clock will go toward initiatives to help address “systemic racism within the music industry” while also preparing the “next generation of industry leaders.”

The event raised money for the Black Music Action Coalition, an advocacy organization that was founded to address systemic racism within the music business.

“When most are turning down the volume around social, racial, and economic justice, we’re doubling down on efforts and spotlighting the positive and meaningful impact that the music industry has made on society, which is what we hope to inspire with this event,” BMAC CEO Willie “Prophet” Stiggers stated before the fourth annual gala.

Flav is no stranger to helping others as he showed recently at the Paris Olympics. The clock-wearing personality lent his support to the USA Water Polo team before the Olympics after team captain Maggie Steffens asked for support on social media. The Associated Press reported that Flav worked out a deal naming him as a sponsor for the USA Water Polo team and promised the team he’d be there for the support the team needs.

Raven-Symoné, African American, show, the view, address
(Photo: Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images)

Raven-Symoné Watches ‘A Lot More Politics’ Since Leaving ‘The View’

Raven-Symoné is more open to watching politics now that she's no longer being "scolded" on "The View."


Raven-Symoné stopped by The View for a guest appearance following her brief stint as a co-host and jokingly admitted to having “PTSD” from the experience.

The veteran actress, a permanent co-host on The View from 2015 to 2016, returned as a guest on Wednesday to discuss her journey as a former child star and mentor to young talent. The That’s So Raven star also reflected on her time as a co-host and shared how she now watches much more politics since leaving the show.

“Does it feel good to be back here at all?” panelist Joy Behar — who worked with Symoné as a co-host during her short tenure — asked the star, who replied,

“Um, certain things do!” she jokingly replied. “Actually, no, as you guys know, every time I come here, I have to come to this job maybe, like, 45 minutes early to say hi to everybody. And then when I get on this, I have PTSD. Please don’t ask me any questions!”

That’s when Behar segued right into a question about Symoné’s visit to The White House during Pride Month, where she met Vice President Kamala Harris. Behar asked her former co-host if she’s been keeping up with the current presidential election and caught last week’s Vice Presidential debate.

“I watch a lot more politics now that I’m not on the show,” she declared after jokingly telling Behar, “I told you not to ask me any questions.”

Behar claimed that The View didn’t focus as heavily on politics during Symoné’s time as a co-host, but The Cosby Show star disagreed with that statement.

“Well, yes, I got a lot of scolding back in the day that I’m not paying attention to it as much, but I watch it now for actual entertainment,” she replied.

“It is absolutely amazing, and there are so many different ways you can go about it, but the one thing I wanted to say about it is if you’re confused about who to vote for because certain policies sit certain ways, because, like, yeah, there are some things I like about the Republican side and there are some things I like about the Democrat side, but ultimately I’m choosing the person that best represents me as a human to the rest of the world and what that looks like.”

Symoné and Whoopi Goldberg have stayed in touch over the years, with the EGOT-winning actress appearing as a guest on Symoné’s The Best Podcast Ever with Raven and Miranda in August 2023. During the episode, the two laughed at Symoné’s playful remark that Goldberg gave off “lesbian vibes.”

RELATED CONTENT: Raven-Symoné Was ‘Misunderstood’ When She Said She’s ‘Not An African American’

Suspect, White House Correspondents Dinner, Shooting, trump
(Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Donald Trump Plans To Deport Haitian Immigrants If Elected  

Trump attacked Haitians as part of his anti-immigration stance


Former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump says he will “absolutely” send Haitian immigrants back to their home country in a new impromptu interview, The Miami Herald reports. 

During an interview with NewsNation, Trump attacked Haitians as part of his anti-immigration stance. The Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio, has been targeted after false claims that they are stealing and eating neighborhood pets; Trump said if he is elected, he plans to revoke their Temporary Protected Status (TPS), a protection granted by President Joe Biden that affords migrants from Haiti and 15 other countries in political turmoil to live and work in the U.S temporarily.

“In Springfield, what’s happening there is horrible…and about 30,000 were put into that community rapidly…you have to remove the people; we cannot destroy our country,” Trump told the NewsNation cable network reporter.

“You had a beautiful, safe community…and all of sudden in a short period, they have 32,000 more people there. It doesn’t work, it can’t work. It has nothing to do with Haiti or anything else. It doesn’t work. You have to remove the people, and you have to bring them back to their own country.”

When asked if he would revoke TPS for Haitians, he boldly responded, “Absolutely, I’d revoke it, and I’d bring them back to their country.” 

According to HuffPost, the claims by Trump and his VP nominee, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, who continued the false claims during Vice Presidential debates on Oct. 1, have resulted in several attacks, including schools having to be evacuated because of bomb threats. Ohio’s Gov. Mike DeWine has to station Highway Patrol troopers on school grounds at district buildings as an extra precaution. 

White supremacists were seen standing outside of Springfield’s City Hall building with a sign that read, “Haitians have no home here.” Residents bantered against them, saying the town is a place of love and not hate. 

https://twitter.com/mmpadellan/status/1840194786688676308

Unfortunately, this wasn’t the first time Trump has promised to remove TPS status from immigrants. In 2017, the Department of Homeland Security, under the 45th president’s reign, announced the end of TPS for Haitians, claiming the protections caused the agency to conclude that Haiti no longer met the conditions. The decision came just two weeks after Trump terminated similar protection for 2,500 Nicaraguans that lasted nearly 20 years.

RELATED CONTENT: Meet The Black-Owned Event Companies Helping Organize The Democratic National Convention

Kerry Washington, Tyler Perry, The Six Triple Eight, WWII
(Photo: Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Karl Lagerfeld)

Kerry Washington Invests In Spill, The Black-Owned Twitter Alternative

Kerry Washington invests her money and celebrity to support a Black-owned social media platform


Kerry Washington is investing her money and celebrity to support a Black-owned social media platform started by a former Twitter employee.

The Emmy-winning actress was announced as the newest investor of Spill, the emerging Twitter alternative Alphonzo Terrell launched after being laid off by the company two years ago, TechCrunch reports. As an active user of Spill, where she has hosted “Tea Parties” — the platform’s term for live video chats — to engage with users on topics like voter registration, Washington felt it was a natural step to invest in the startup tech company.

“In a digital world where marginalized groups, especially Black, Brown, and LGBTQIA folks, rarely feel prioritized, Spill stands out,” Washington said in a statement. “I’m proud to be part of this community as both a user and an investor.”

Washington is thoughtful about the companies she selects for early-stage investments. The Scandal star has previously been an angel investor in ventures like the direct-to-consumer teeth-aligner startup Byte, the celebrity-focused fundraising platform Omaze, the now-closed women’s co-working space The Wing, and the SMS-based marketing platform Community.

Not just one to throw her money behind a brand and walk away, Terrell shares how involved Washington is as an investor.

“She’s incredibly accessible and knowledgeable, especially around these topics and is not scared in any way, shape, or form about really engaging with people directly,” Terrell shared. “I think it really does represent the kind of environment we want to cultivate on Spill … We’re all human here, too. Let’s connect.”

Washington’s investment coincides with Spill’s second anniversary and its growing success, highlighted by the popular Spades feature. Users are now spending over 30 minutes on the app to complete games, signaling a steady improvement in user retention.

“It’s partner-based, so it’s inherently very social,” Terrell said. “This was a suggestion from the community because it’s always played at Black barbecues and things like that, and family gatherings.”

Additional successes include a 400% increase in average ad spend per campaign on Spill. The platform will surpass one million dollars in annualized revenue next year.

“Multicultural ad spending has increased 5-10% [per year] over the last seven years. It’s going to be a $45 billion a year business in just the United States this year,” Terrell said. “We had some entertainment partners that were running some test campaigns, and since that time, we’ve had … a lot of brands coming back for multiple campaigns.”

Elsewhere, Spill aims to remain a voice for marginalized communities. Washington’s investment was announced shortly after users mourned the passing of Marcellus Williams, a Black man who spent over 20 years on death row for a murder he claimed he did not commit, with no DNA or forensic evidence against him. Despite objections from three U.S. Supreme Court justices, their concerns were ultimately dismissed, and the execution—described by the NAACP as a lynching—proceeded on Sept. 24.

“The execution yesterday … really underscored the need for just like, community, like people around you to support you so that you’re not isolated,” Terrell said. “You don’t carry this stuff alone. I think everybody needs that wherever you can find it.”

veneers,Atlanta
Photo by Karolina Kaboompics: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-of-teeth-implants-with-different-shades-6627597/

Atlanta Veneer Scammer Smiles His Way Into 8 Felony Charges


On Oct. 3., Atlanta police raided the offices of Brandon Dillard. Dillard, a self-proclaimed veneer specialist, has been on the radar of the Fulton County district attorney’s office for some time and is being officially charged. Dillard is accused of committing eight felony offenses, including practicing dentistry without a license.

WSBTV reports Dillard is “not a licensed dentist and has been illegally performing veneer procedures.”

Dillard ran his operation in a Northeast, Atlanta, Georgia office, “A List Smiles Atlanta.” The unlicensed technician has been promoting his business on social media since 2021.

“If you went to this and you thought it was a dental office, and you looked at the equipment, it appears to be legitimate. But that’s what the best fraudsters do: they do everything they can to make themselves look legitimate,” said Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

Social media users have focused on the rise of veneer technicians. Months before Dillard’s probe came to a head, users commented on the legality of his operation, even calling him a scammer.

https://twitter.com/tamarajademusic/status/1783900220704886909?s=46

Another X user commented on the lack of formal dentistry training.

His Instagram followers boast over 100,000 and multiple videos of alleged customers, as well as buy now, pay later payment options.

Unfortunately, Dillard is not the only person engaging in illegal practices. His training class equips dozens of students with supplies and knowledge on how to perform the service.

There may be more indictments to follow.

RELATED CONTENT: Atlanta-Fulton Is Under A Smoke Advisory After Chemical Fire

Kevin Hunter, divorce, Wendy Williams
NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 26: Kevin Hunter attends Hot 97 Who's Next Live With Jacquees, Elijah The boy And Jay Watts at S.O.B.'s on February 26, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

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

He believes the extra $48 million "was fraudulently concealed in the divorce."


As former talk show host Wendy Williams continues her recovery from health issues, her former husband, Kevin Hunter, is demanding that a court “vacate and set aside” the final divorce judgment granted “based on fraud, misrepresentation, and misconduct.”

According to The U.S. Sun, Hunter alleges fraud based on financial documents submitted in 2019 during the divorce proceedings. In a Wells Fargo portfolio report submitted by her guardian, her “total holdings” were listed at $7,319,032.15. Yet, Williams’ best friend, Regina Schell, submitted an affidavit stating that Williams had $55 million in her bank accounts in 2022.

“In July of 2022, Wendy invited me to stay with her in New York City for an extended period,” she said in the affidavit. “During that visit, Wendy expressed to me that she wished to explore options regarding her estate, specifically a possible change with her current financial institution. She also shared with me documents from Wells Fargo showing a cumulative balance of nearly $55 million.”

Based on that statement, Hunter feels the money was hidden from him during the divorce proceedings. He believes the extra $48 million “was fraudulently concealed in the divorce.”

As Hunter continues his pursuit of more money from Williams, he has argued with the New Jersey court where the divorce took place that Williams’ guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, may not even be allowed to represent his former wife. Morrisey has the authority to do so in New York State, but he doubts she can do so in New Jersey.

In July, he filed court papers saying Morrisey repping Williams is “akin to practicing law without a license as she is neither a barred attorney nor a Guardian appointed by a New Jersey Court.”

The judge has given Morrisey 21 days to prove to the court that she has the authority to represent Williams in New Jersey.

AALANTA ONE MUSICFEST

ONE MUSICFEST Will Celebrate 15th Year At Atlanta’s Central Park

Organizers switch from last year's venue, Piedmont Park.


ONE MUSICFEST will be held on Oct. 26 and 27. The festival was first held in Atlanta’s Central Park in 2022 and moved to Piedmont Park last year, but organizers just announced that it is returning to Central Park for this year’s event.

The organizers posted the information on social media to inform guests about the change.

🚨 #OMFFam, we’ve got an important update! 🚨

#OMF2024 will now be held at Atlanta’s Historic CENTRAL PARK! Read above for details

Y’all remember #OMF2022, right? SAME energy for this year! 🙌🏼💪🏽✊🏽

New location, same vibes! The countdown is ON, and we can’t wait to party. Let’s make this 15th anniversary one for the books! 💯🙌🏾

WSB-TV reported that the change occurs at the smaller park as it celebrates its 15th year.

“By moving to Central Park, we can continue to deliver the activations and experiences you love without compromising on quality. We believe deeply in the power of culture and the significance of independently owned Black festivals,” a written statement from the organizers read. “We’re committed to making the best choices for our music-loving community and keeping ONE MUSICFEST strong.”

On Oct. 26, people can expect to see performances by Earth, Wind & Fire, Fantasia, Method Man & Redman, Nelly, and Cardi B. Atlanta DJ Greg Street’s OMF Anthem will also allow local talent Young Dro, Crime Mob, Travis Porter, and Trillville to take the stage.

The following day, Jill Scott, Victoria Monet, Keyshia Cole, Dru Hil, Gunna, Glorilla, and Sexyy Red are expected to take the stage. DJ Drama will also have special guests. DJ Mars Block Party will also have T.I., Keri Hilson, Lloyd, and other artists.

Tickets for the event, starting at $99 for a single-day ticket, can be obtained on the ONE MUSICFEST website.

Viola Davis, HollyRod, Kelly Rowland

Viola Davis Receives Humanitarian Award From Kelly Rowland At HollyRod DesignCare Gala

Viola Davis silenced the audience with an impassioned speech at the HollyRod DesignCare Gala.


Kelly Rowland expressed her honor in presenting Viola Davis with an honor at the 2024 HollyRod DesignCare Gala on Saturday.

Stars gathered to support Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete at the annual HollyRod DesignCare Gala, celebrating the nonprofit’s 26 years of advocacy for the autism and Parkinson’s communities. The event honored EGOT winner Davis for her philanthropic contributions with an award named for the late humanitarian Jacqueline Avant.

Davis became the second Jacqueline Avant HollyRod Humanitarian Award recipient, following 2023 honoree Naomi Campbell. Recognized for her partnerships with various programs to end childhood hunger in the U.S. and her dedication to other social justice causes, The Woman King star gave an impassioned speech that spoke to her 6-year-old self.

“And if anyone understands the definition of a hero, they are always born into a world where they do not fit in,” Davis told the audience.

During her speech, the Fences star admitted to having a desire to leave behind a legacy that lasts a lifetime. But her explanation of how that impossible feat might be possible left the room in awe.

“Until the last person who has a memory of you dies, then you will never be dead,” Davis said.

Her charitable work includes serving as an ambassador for Hunger Is, a campaign focused on ending childhood hunger, and supporting organizations such as Children’s Hunger Alliance, the clothing and shoe nonprofit Soles4Souls, and the women’s addiction recovery group Friendly House. Reflecting on her contributions, Davis shared how her difficult childhood has driven her philanthropic efforts.

“I want to be the hero that she is at six. I want to be that person that came through the dark and said, ‘I see you,'” she said. “It’s why I work with hunger. It’s why I work with education. It’s why I work with domestic violence. I see you. And as long as I am breathing, I know that my end of this race is to pass it on to the next great woman who’s going to give it and put it out into the world and make others feel less alone.

“I thank her for her life,” she continued. “I thank her. Thank you for even thinking that I am worthy of this award, and while I’m still breathing, I am going to leave something in people.”

HollyRod, founded by actor Holly Robinson Peete and former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, is a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for families affected by autism and Parkinson’s Disease.

The couple founded the nonprofit in honor of Holly Robinson Peete’s late father, actor, writer, and producer Matthew T. Robinson Jr., who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease at 45. HollyRod’s mission later expanded when their son RJ was diagnosed with autism at age 3.

In addition to Davis, the 2024 HollyRod DesignCare Gala also honored Dr. Chantale Branson with the Muhammad Ali Trailblazer Award; Camille Proctor and Nadine Wright-Arbubakkr with the Karen E. Smith Angel on the Path Award; Jason McElwain and Morgan Harper Nichols with the HollyRod Hero Award; Eric Aquino with the Matthew Robinson Jr. Award of Courage; and Julian Maha and Michele Kong with the HollyRod Corporate Champion Award.