• Technology

by Rafael Pena

April 16, 2024

Chris Paul Teams Up With Black-Woman-Owned Fintech Company To Financially Empower Oakland Middle-Schoolers

NBA star Chris Paul has joined forces with Goalsetter, a Black-woman-owned fintech company equip students with financial literacy.

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According to AfroTech, NBA star Chris Paul has joined forces with Goalsetter, a Black-woman-owned fintech company founded by Tanya Van Court, to equip Oakland middle-school students with essential financial literacy skills and resources.

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The partnership, which also involves the Oakland Fund for Public Innovation and Nike, aims to address the pressing need for financial education among youth. A recent study conducted by Goalsetter revealed alarming gaps in financial knowledge among undergraduate students from Ivy League universities, emphasizing the critical importance of early financial literacy initiatives.

“Empowering our youth with the knowledge and tools to secure a financially sound future is not just a commitment, it’s a necessity,” stated Chris Paul. “We owe it to the next generation to lay the groundwork for financial success, ensuring they’re equipped to make informed decisions that will shape their lives and communities for the better.”

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Through this initiative, 1,400 middle-school students from Edna Brewer Middle School and Montera Middle School in Oakland, California, will gain access to comprehensive financial literacy education. The curriculum, aptly named “Goalsetter Classroom,” will include weekly quizzes infused with pop culture references to engage students effectively.

In addition to educational materials, students will receive practical resources, including a Goalsetter savings account accessible through the company’s app. They will also receive $40 in Nike stock deposited into their Goalsetter investment account. To further empower students, Goalsetter will provide them with Cashola Cards, debit cards supported by Mastercard, equipped with features like “Learn Before You Burn” and “Learn to Earn.”

“This is more than just a conversation; it is a step towards bridging the financial literacy gap for youth across America,” remarked Tanya Van Court. “Chris Paul’s involvement has been instrumental in driving home the message that financial education is crucial for all, irrespective of socio-economic background.”

By imparting core financial concepts such as the Rule of 72 and the power of compound interest, the initiative seeks to break the cycle of costly financial mistakes that can impede students’ ability to build wealth.

• History

by Stacy Jackson

April 16, 2024

Philip Cobbs Hopes To Preserve History Of Family’s 600-Acre Farmland In Virginia

There is little evidence of Cobb's unnamed family farm that was once referred to as The Garland, where Black women delivered their babies.

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Buck Island resident Philip Cobbs is on a mission to preserve the historical significance of his family’s land, once the largest Black-owned farm in Albemarle County, Virginia, often referred to as the Garland Farm.

Despite its substantial 600-acre expanse, little evidence remains of the farm’s existence, with only a path where commuters now traverse to the Thomas Jefferson Parkway on their way to Charlottesville.

Cobbs, however, is determined to keep the story of Buck Island’s past alive, telling the Charlottesville Tomorrow, “A few years ago, when I looked for Buck Island Creek on Google Maps, I was surprised that it was mislabeled…The place I remember so well had disappeared from the map.”

The Garland farm at Buck Island was a true family endeavor from 1835 to 1972, with each generation passing down the deed to a single family member. Others were granted smaller parcels to homestead, sharing the responsibility of operating the farm. “In my early youth, there were many homes separated by some distance across the property. As families moved or passed away, the homes were abandoned,” Cobbs recounted.

The farm comprised three distinct sections: the woods or forest, the elevated open fields where cattle and sheep grazed, and the low-ground—a fertile floodplain at the confluence of Buck Island Creek and the Rivanna River, where enslaved individuals cultivated cash crops destined for market via batteau boats crewed by enslaved and free Black men.

In the early 1970s, the Garland family member holding the deed died without a will, leading to the farm’s auction. Westvaco, a paper packaging company, was the winning bidder. Family members were given the option to purchase surrounding property, with Cobbs’ aunt and parents securing small plots. The remainder was sold to a developer.

According to an additional article from Cobbs, for generations, Black women would journey to the farm from Richmond to deliver their babies, underscoring the farm’s significance within the community.

In 2017, Cobbs learned that his ancestor, Sarah Garland Boyd Jones, was being commemorated as part of the “Voices from the Garden” monument in Richmond, honoring 12 remarkable Virginia women. After passing the state’s medical board examination in 1893, Jones became the first African American woman doctor in Virginia.

• Celebrity News

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 16, 2024

Nicki Minaj’s Husband, A Registered Sex Offender, Asks Judge If He Can Travel Overseas For World Tour 

Nicki Minaj's husband, a registered sex offender, is asking a judge to let him travel overseas to assist with "childcare" during the rapper's world tour.

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Nicki Minaj’s husband, who is currently on probation, is asking a judge to travel overseas to assist with “childcare” during the rapper’s world tour.

Kenneth Petty’s lawyer recently filed documents requesting to “travel out of the country with his family for his wife’s tour and her professional purposes,” Radar Online reports. The filing lists how “necessary” Petty and Minaj think it is for him to accompany her on the European leg of her tour and assist with tasks such as childcare.

“The anticipated travel schedule begins on April 17, 2024, and continues periodically to July 14, 2024,” the filing, first shared by Meghann Cuniff, states. “The travel schedule calls for travel to several countries including Canada, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, and Romania.”

Petty’s lawyer also noted the support the convicted felon has received from his probation officer, who was notified about his travel request application. The request comes after Petty wrapped up a 120-day house arrest sentence for violating his probation by threatening Cardi B’s husband Offset last year.

Petty’s legal woes stem from a first-degree rape charge he received as a teenager against a woman named Jennifer Hough. He was able to reach a plea deal that got the charge reduced to attempted rape.

After serving four years in prison, Petty was ordered to register as a sex offender. When he married Minaj in 2019 and relocated to California, he was charged for failing to register as a sex offender. He was ordered to serve three years of probation and complete his registration as a sex offender in California.

Minaj’s husband’s criminal record doesn’t stop there. Petty also served time after he pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the first degree for killing Lamont Robinson in 2002. He reached a plea deal after initially being charged with second-degree murder during a 2006 trial.

After serving his time, Petty was able to reconnect with Minaj, briefly a high school sweetheart, in 2018.

RELATED CONTENT: Nicki Minaj And Husband Kenneth Petty Must Pay Security Guard $500K

• Money

by Kandiss Edwards

April 16, 2024

Financial Literacy Month: Five Tips For Financial Well-Being

Are you financially well? If you're not, don't feel bad. You might need a little push in the right direction.

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Originally Published Apr. 7, 2014.

Are you financially well? If you’re not, don’t feel bad. There are plenty of people just like you who need a little push in the right direction. Read on for tips on how to get your finances happy and healthy.

Pay off your debt

This means paying extra on your current debt, and declining to sign up for new debt. It’s hard to imagine living without debt, but you will not regret it. Once you have paid off that debt you will have much more money to spend.

Create a budget and stick to it

We live in an instant society. There are stores on nearly every corner that are open all the time. We have access to the internet where we can purchase items easily. The problem becomes impulse spending and/or lack of a budget. A budget does not mean that you have to give up everything that you love. Rather, a budget is a set of guidelines for spending. You determine ahead of time how much you will spend. Not only does this give you rules for spending, but it shows you where your money is actually being spent.

Make deliberate purchases

Instead of buying something that you see and want, try going home and waiting 24 hours before making the purchase. Stores are very good at marketing to consumers and making them feel like they need an item right away.  So after you see your dream blender, go home and think about it. Decide whether it is a need or a want, then act accordingly.

Look for deals and pay in cash

Cash still rules when it comes to paying for items. Big-ticket-item vendors will often reduce prices if you pay in cash. Additionally, you become more aware of where your money is going when you physically hand over cash.

Save for an Emergency.

Emergencies happen. Instead of paying for them with a credit card, develop a savings account for such a situation. This way, you do not end up paying interest for that broken arm or that car wreck. Emergencies are bad enough without having to worry about the debt from the emergency following you for an extended period of time.

RELATED CONTENT: OneUnited Bank Announces Annual Youth Contest ‘I Got Bank’ To Celebrate Financial Literacy Month

• Celebrity News

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 16, 2024

Gayle King And Charles Barkley’s CNN Talk Show Comes To An End

Gayle King and Charles Barkley have ended their limited six-month stint on CNN following reports of low viewership.

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Gayle King and Charles Barkley have ended their limited six-month stint on CNN following reports of low viewership.

The pair gave their farewells in their show’s final episode last week with King expressing her hope to work with the NBA star again in the future, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

“I will say this: I have loved working with you and something tells me, Charles, this will not be the last time that we’re working together,” King told Barkley.

“Call me, Gayle,” Barkley joked.

Addressing the King Charles viewers, King subtly teased the possibility of her and Barkley’s return to the network.

“We will see you the next time whenever we see you,” King said to the camera. “Thanks so much for being with us for the past six months. We had a blast.”

The limited-edition talk show began in November with a confirmed end for spring 2024. It only aired one night a week due to Barkley co-hosting the popular Inside the NBA on CNN’s sister station TNT.

“King Charles has come to the end of its limited run as we announced when it launched last fall and was a great addition to CNN’s lineup, with the youngest, most affluent, and most diverse P2+ audience in its cable news time period,” a spokesperson for CNN said.

Former CNN CEO Chris Licht came up with the idea for the King Charles show and tapped King whom he worked with at CBS News. But the show was seemingly just a tester as it aired following Licht’s firing from CNN last June after just 13 months on the job.

King Charles aired at 10 p.m. Eastern time on Wednesday nights but struggled to attract viewers. Of the 14 episodes that aired, the show drew in an average of 459,000 total viewers and 106,000 in the 25-54 demographic. Nielsen listed it as the lowest-rated prime-time weeknight series debut for CNN in the last decade.

RELATED CONTENT: GloRilla Stays Mum On Politics During CNN Appearance After Meeting Biden And Harris

• Money

by Stacy Jackson

April 16, 2024

Mellody Hobson Covers All Things Money In Debut Children’s Book ‘Priceless Facts About Money’

"Priceless Facts About Money" delves into subjects like a brief history of money, allowance, international finances, and prices then and now.

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Mellody Hobson, the trailblazing president and co-CEO of Ariel Investments, is set to unveil her debut children’s book, “Priceless Facts About Money,” this fall.

This literary endeavor showcases Hobson’s expertise in financial literacy, delving into topics about bartering, profit and loss, the origins of credit, ATMs, and global monetary systems. According to Penguin Random House, Hobson infuses the realm of financial education with excitement, equipping young readers with invaluable tools to navigate the world of money, both now and in the future. The book features vibrant illustrations by debut artist Caitlin Stevens and humorous skits and inserts of Hobson and her business partner, John Rogers.

“Priceless Facts About Money” covers a wide range of subjects, including a brief history of money, allowance, international finances, and price comparisons between then and now. It also explores the various nicknames attributed to money, such as “bacon,” “cheddar,” or “smackeroonies.”

Actress and entrepreneur Kerry Washington praised the book, stating, “I wish that I had been able to read this book when I was 10, but I am so grateful that my kids will have it now!”

Hobson’s passion for financial literacy stems from her childhood when she enjoyed playing store and office for fun, fostering an early interest in money management. Her mother further nurtured this curiosity by involving her in household finances, teaching her about the “cost of living” through monthly utility bills.

The finance expert, honored with the prestigious Barbara Graves Award at BLACK ENTERPRISE‘s Women of Power Summit in March, has shattered barriers as a pioneering figure in finance. Last year, her Ariel Alternatives raised $1.45 billion for Project Black LP, according to BE.

People noted that Hobson and her husband, “Star Wars” filmmaker George Lucas, donated millions to charitable causes through the Hobson Lucas Family Foundation, including the USC School of Cinematic Arts. Her remarkable career includes serving as the chair of the Starbucks Corporation’s Board of Directors and holding board positions at institutions like JPMorgan Chase & Co. and the Sundance Institute. She is a former chairperson for DreamWorks Animation and contributed as a financial expert for CBS News and Good Morning America. In 2020, Forbes recognized her as one of the Most Powerful Women for her work with Ariel Investments.

“Priceless Facts About Money” is available for pre-order ahead of its Oct. 1 release.

• Sports

by Rafael Pena

April 16, 2024

Deion Sanders’ New Book Unveils Insights Into Jackson State Football Journey

Deion Sanders' latest book provides a candid glimpse into his tenure as the head coach of Jackson State football.

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Deion Sanders’ latest book, “Elevate and Dominate -21 Ways to Win On and Off the Field,” provides a candid glimpse into his tenure as the head coach of Jackson State football. It sheds light on pivotal moments and decision-making processes.

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Sanders, who led Jackson State to two Southwestern Athletic Conference championships during his three-year tenure, disclosed previously undisclosed details about his coaching journey, including his interactions with other schools and his decision to choose Colorado over other offers.

According to Sanders, toward the end of his third season with Jackson State, he was approached by other schools, including Colorado. Despite the tempting offers, Sanders ultimately made the decision to stay true to his commitment to Jackson State.

“I wasn’t looking for a new job. I was focused on turning Jackson State into a powerhouse,” Sanders revealed. “But once major colleges started showing interest, I knew I had to weigh my options.”

In the book, Sanders reflects on his initial meetings with various community members in Jackson, including local pastors, gang leaders, drug dealers, and hood heroes. He emphasizes the importance of building connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds and acknowledges the role of community leaders in supporting the team through challenges.

“I knew that I needed those pastors to help us pray through storms and trials and tribulations,” Sanders remarked. “Their role is just as important as anyone else’s.”

Addressing his decision to choose Colorado over other offers, Sanders attributed his choice to divine guidance. He expressed his belief that God wanted him to embark on a different assignment, one that would involve unifying people in a different environment.

“After careful consideration and prayer, I chose Colorado because I believed it was where God wanted me to be,” Sanders affirmed. “He wanted me to change the game in a different way.”

Despite his departure from Jackson State, Sanders remains proud of the accomplishments achieved during his tenure. He believes that his time at Jackson State left a lasting impact on the football program and the broader community.

“While our time in Jackson was relatively short, I like to think our impact was relatively large,” Sanders reflected. “We challenged the belief that HBCUs were inferior, and we proved that they are not.”

Through “Elevate and Dominate,” Sanders offers readers an inside look at the complexities of coaching at Jackson State and the transformative power of sports in fostering unity and empowerment within communities.

• Women

by Stacy Jackson

April 16, 2024

11th Annual Life Styled Honors To Recognize First Transgender Recipient Among 2024 Honorees

Life Styled Honors will recognize four "She is HER" recipients and Dominque Morgan will become the event's first transgender honoree.

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The 11th Annual Life Styled Honors is poised to honor a remarkable array of trailblazers during its 2024 events as it champions diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment within fashion and entertainment in Atlanta.

Building upon a legacy of celebrating influential figures such as social activist Tarana Burke and Raynell “Supa” Steward, the CEO of The Crayon Case, this year’s event will mark a historic milestone by recognizing its inaugural transgender woman honoree. According to a press release, the festivities will commence on April 17 with “R&B Wednesday,” hosted by recording artists Josh Waters and SunniDread. The 2024 events will continue with the “Black & Brave” sneaker ball, presided over by the accomplished actress Nzinga Imani, the titular Life Styled Honors event, emceed by the influential Big Sexy and radio personality Nikki Lee, the Rosé All Day Party.

Distinguished individuals will be recognized during the scheduled events. Honorees include:

• Felisha Caldwell, Educator
• Wondrea Gilmore, Model & Actress
• Dominique Morgan, Activist
• Cherie Washington, Senior Manager of Diversity, L’Oreal
• Kimberly Lockett, Owner, Julie x Noire
• Keyondra Lockett, Owner, Julie x Noire
• Sheena Postell, Model & Influencer
• Alexis Felder, Digital Influencer
• Premadonna, Reality Star & Entrepreneur

In a testament to its commitment to empowerment, Life Styled Honors, in collaboration with the Breonna Taylor Foundation, will bestow the “She Is HER” honor upon four remarkable young women in celebration of their unwavering authenticity and profound impact. “She is HER” recipients for 2024 are public relations specialist Porche Madre, hairstylist and makeup artist Tyera Thomas, stylist Arrion Burris, and progressive organizer Tequeria Barrett. “We are thrilled to honor these remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to our industries,” said Life Styled Honors founder Maui Bigelow.

Notably, this year’s esteemed honorees will include a pioneering figure, Dominque Morgan, who will become the event’s first transgender woman recipient. “This year, we are especially proud to highlight the achievements of our first transgender woman honoree…reflecting our commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering inclusion within our community,” Bigelow said.

The groundbreaking recognitions of 2024 celebrate the accomplishments of these remarkable individuals and reinforce the vital importance of representation and inclusivity in the fashion, beauty, and entertainment industries. Purchase tickets here.

Check out the recap of the 10th Annual Life Styled honors below.

by Rafael Pena

April 16, 2024

Chaos Erupts At Houston IRS Office, Forcing Early Closure Ahead Of Tax Deadline

An IRS office in Houston found itself at the center of chaos over the weekend as a fight broke out, leading to the abrupt closure.

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FOX News reported an IRS office in Houston found itself at the center of chaos over the weekend as a fight broke out, leading to the abrupt closure of the facility just days before Apr. 15, the Tax Day deadline.

“They opened the gates like around 9 or 10 am, and I think a couple of people started fighting, so after that, they told everybody to go home,” recounted Katrel Johnson, one of the visitors at the tax center who had driven over two hours for assistance.

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The incident occurred during the IRS’ Tax Assistance event, drawing hundreds of taxpayers hoping to receive last-minute assistance with their taxes. However, the situation quickly spiraled out of control when a confrontation between two individuals waiting in line escalated.

Adding to the confusion, a large crowd attempted to enter the building simultaneously, exacerbating tensions among those seeking help.

“All of a sudden, everybody went in when they opened the door, and bum rushed and started skipping,” described Tonya Johnson, another visitor at the IRS center.

Originally scheduled to close at 4 p.m., the office shut its doors shortly before 11 a.m., leaving many taxpayers frustrated and bewildered by the sudden turn of events.

“I ain’t doing no playing. This is the second month I came out here, and I’m not going to play with the IRS,” expressed one disgruntled taxpayer to FOX 26.

In response to the incident, the IRS attributed the delays in Houston to overwhelming demand for assistance and pledged to provide further support to those unable to receive help in person.

“Unfortunately, they did everything as a walk-in, no appointments, and that’s really what caused all these problems,” remarked Henry Castro, another visitor at the Houston IRS center.

The agency assured affected individuals that it would offer additional assistance throughout the week and committed to fully staffing its offices and phone lines. As the Tax Day deadline loomed on Monday, April 15, taxpayers were urged to file their returns promptly or request an extension if needed.