Madonna’s Son Reveals ‘Scavenging’ Lifestyle After Moving Out of Her Luxe New York Crib
David Banda called the experience 'lovely.'
Madonna’s son, David Banda, is getting a taste of how the other half lives. He revealed on social media that he’s “scavenging” for food since moving out of his mom’s New York City luxury crib.
According to Page Six, the nepo baby wants to learn how to make it independently. “It’s lovely to experience it being nine o’clock at night, me being hungry and realizing that I don’t have enough money to get food and scavenging,” he said on Instagram Live. “It’s fun to be young.”
The 18-year-old lives in the Bronx and pays his way by teaching guitar lessons. However, a stark difference remains from his previous lifestyle. His mom’s Upper East Side mansion is reportedly worth $32.5 million. According to Hello!, the abode boasts over 16,000 square feet, with four bedrooms and seven bathrooms. The home fits Madonna’s big family. The 65-year-old entertainer has six kids.
Despite the luxury accommodations, Banda prefers to rough it up as he embarks on adulthood. Currently living with his girlfriend, Maria Atuesta, Banda is happy with his new housing situation. “I love it,” he said. “I’m not on my own. I’ve got my girlfriend. But I love it.”
Despite moving on from Mommy’s house, Banda remains tight with his superstar parent. Since his adoption from the Home of Hope Orphanage in Mchinji, Malawi, Madonna has fostered her son’s knack for music. This past year, Banda played in the band for his mom’s “Celebration” tour, which Madonna wanted all her musically inspired children to participate in.
“Because The Celebration Tour is a retrospective of my life, I thought it made perfect sense to include all of my children still living with me in the show,” she told W Magazine. “As they all dance and play musical instruments and have been doing so for years. David has played guitar since he was a child.”
Now that the tour has concluded, Banda is paving a new way for himself.
(Photo: Soeren Stache/Picture Alliance via Getty Images; Inset: Scott Olson/Getty Images)
Kamala Harris Receives Endorsement From Nikki Haley Voters PAC
Who else is with the VP?
The political action committee (PAC) for former Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley pushed its support to Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential bid just hours after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race.
The PAC, formally known as Haley Voters for Biden, now features Harris’ name, with a goal of uplifting the voices of former Haley supporters who support Harris’ White House campaign, Newsweek reports.
The group’s leader, Craig Snyder, said in a statement they believe Harris “is best suited to defeat Donald Trump in November.” “A tough former prosecutor, the Vice President comes from the centrist wing of the Democratic Party, not its left-most fringe,” he said. “For Haley voters, all of this puts the Vice President in a sweet spot for them to register their ongoing opposition to [former] President Trump.”
The PAC shared Biden’s endorsement of Harris on X and changed its profile header. In the post, the group encouraged Harris to “select a moderate VP.” Its Democratic gubernatorial recommendations included Roy Cooper (NC), Andy Beshear (KY), and Josh Sahpiro (PA).
We support @JoeBiden's recommendation and will immediately change the name of our organization to Haley Voters for Harris. There is no time to lose.
“I don’t know how that process is going to work. It’s flattering to be a part of it,” Beshear said on MSNBC’s Morning Joe. “I love my job. I love serving the people of Kentucky. The only way I would consider something other than this current job is if I believe I could further help my people and help this country. I am excited to fully endorse Vice President Harris as the next President of the United States.”
He continued to make vast comparisons between Harris and the GOP’s VP candidate, Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, calling her “smart and strong.”
“She is also kind and has empathy which could make her a great president. And the contrast between her and the (person) running on the other side couldn’t be clearer,” Beshear said.
Gov. Andy Beshear endorses Harris and attacks JD Vance on Morning Joe: "Vance calls pregnancy arising from rape 'inconvenient.' No, it's just plain wrong. He suggests that women should stay in abusive relationships. Listen, a domestic abuser isn't a man, he's a monster." pic.twitter.com/rO3ardI65K
Days before her voters switched gears, Haley stood before thousands of GOP supporters at the Republican National Convention (RNC) and vowed her support of former President Donald Trump, ahead of November’s election. The former South Carolina governor ended her presidential campaign in March 2024 after losing on Super Tuesday to Trump. She still openly criticized some of his extremist tactics.
During the RNC, she openly attacked Harris on the issue of border control. “Kamala had one job…one job…and that was to fix the border,” Haley said. “Now imagine her in charge of the entire country.”
Biden endorsed Harris as a candidate for Democratic presidential nominee on July 21 shortly after announcing he will end his bid for reelection.
Biden’s bombshell decision comes after weeks of calls from fellow Democrats, including former President Barack Obama, for him to step down as a nominee. The Democrats have until Aug. 7 to select a new nominee or risk being kept off the ballot in the battleground state of Ohio. The nominee will have to accept the party’s nomination at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) scheduled to take place in Chicago from Aug. 19 to 22.
If you're not relaxing while on vacation, what's the point?
Originally Published Aug. 1, 2016.
You’ve likely been there before—in desperate need of a vacation but afraid to leave behind the tons of work that must be done—that growing, urgent pile of work that will inevitably be waiting for you upon your return.
You wouldn’t be the first to be faced with that situation.
In fact, you’re probably like many vacationers who try to avoid that very situation by balancing it all at once, getting their relaxation on while simultaneously assuring their office isn’t burning down.
Though this may sound all good theoretically, it rarely ever goes that smoothly—something always wins. Either you’re constantly checking emails and taking calls, ultimately defeating the purpose of vacation, or you give in completely to vacating, ignoring all communication with the office and you return to head-swooning work overload.
Keynote speaker, executive trainer and founder of national corporate consulting company, Professional Matters, Dana Brownlee, has a solution for your balancing issue with her 95% unplugged vacation mode. Check out her insight below.
Get Your Significant Other On Board
This one seems like it may be tough, but Brownlee suggests getting an agreement from your spouse/partner upfront letting them know exactly what you need, time, and how long it will take you to do it.
Know When to Say No
The plan is 5% business—just enough to keep your sanity, respond to emergencies, and keep operations flowing. If you find yourself itching to handle a task that can be performed when you get back, don’t.
Set a Specified Amount of “Check-in Time”
No more than this amount of time, and definitely less if you can manage it.
Use Family Downtime Wisely
Only check-in or conduct business activities during family downtime. You may have to alter your personal vacation sleep schedule to accommodate work and family—consider the sacrifice worth it. If your family happens to make a quick run, giving you alone time to get things done, have at it.
Don’t Bring Laptops or Other Devices that Might Encourage Work
The idea is that you shouldn’t PLAN to do any work. Only allow yourself to respond to communications as absolutely needed to maintain your sanity and keep things afloat in your absence.
Know When to Pull Back
If anyone in your family starts complaining, you’re probably beyond the 5% mark, so pull back and refocus. If you’re working too much, what’s the point in the vacation?
To find out more about work-life balance, team building and professionalism visit ProfessionalismMatters.com.
Grandma’s Homemade Baked Goods Are The Talk of Lakeland
The retired 73-year-old sells her homemade baked goods outside a Super Choice Foods store in Lakeland, Florida.
In Lakeland, Florida, a grandmother’s homemade baked goods are causing a stir outside Super Choice Foods, thanks to a viral TikTok video.
Inez Hudson, 73, has been selling her delectable treats at this location three days a week since November 2018. Hudson’s menu at Super Choice Foods includes pineapple pound cake with cream cheese icing, red velvet cake, and sweet potato pie, according to Fox13. “I do it all myself,” Hudson said. “I got into baking when I was very young, and it’s just something I like to do, and I just started baking stuff, you know. As years went by, I kept baking and selling. I started doing this for the church.”
The Florida baker often begins her day at midnight to prepare homemade baked goods. Business fluctuates, but recently, Hudson has seen a surge in customers after a resident, Mannie, shared a TikTok video about her. Mannie’s plea, “I don’t know her…but my heart says she needs our support,” resonated with viewers, garnering over 700,000 views.
Mannie’s act of kindness extended beyond the video. He purchased sweet potato pies and gave Hudson extra cash, which she gratefully accepted.
He intended to rally local support. “That’s the main reason why I made it…I just wanted local people to support each other because that’s the best rewarding experience.” Hudson, who is retired, relies on her cake sales to supplement her fixed income. At Super Choice Foods, owner Jimeld Zad generously allows Hudson to use the space to sell her homemade baked goods free of charge. While she dreams of owning her own company, she acknowledges her age and is content with her current setup at Super Choice Foods.
Lakeland residents and visitors can enjoy Hudson’s homemade baked goods outside Super Choice Foods at 610 W Memorial Blvd, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
(Photo: Black Box Franchise) Daren Hawthorne, HaKika Wise, and Jae Sims - Black Box Franchising Partners
Entrepreneur Helps Other Small Business Owners Through Innovative Franchising Model
HaKika Wise's Black Box Franchising helps other small business owners to become franchisors by converting their businesses into franchises.
In 2018, BLACK ENTERPRISE readers were introduced to HaKika Wise, founder and CEO of Kika Stretch Studio franchise. Fast forward, now Wise’s company has six locations across four states. Wise has expanded her reach in the franchise world, helping other small business owners to become franchisors by converting their businesses into franchises.
With the launch of Black Box Franchising, Wise is partnering with fellow entrepreneurs Daren Hawthorne and Jae Sims. Hawthorne will act as president and Sims as COO. Together, they have pioneered a groundbreaking program that guides Black entrepreneurs in transforming their small businesses into franchises, all for less than $40 a day. BE was excited to hear more about what Black Box Franchising is offering and how they can convert businesses into franchises at such a low cost.
What made you focus on turning small business owners into franchisors?
I was alarmed by the rate of small businesses permanently shuttering. Watching dreams and hard work dissolve was heartbreaking. This pressing issue ignited a passion in me to find a sustainable solution. The challenges these businesses face — overwhelming operational costs, market uncertainties, and the isolation of going it alone — can feel insurmountable. I knew we needed a model that provided not just survival, but a path to thriving.
That’s when the idea of franchising crystallized as a powerful solution. By turning small business owners into franchisors, I’m giving them a chance to expand their reach and stabilize their operations through a proven, scalable model.
At Black Box Franchising, we don’t just help businesses become franchisors; we teach them what it means to thrive as one. When I was becoming a franchisor, I realized there was a significant gap in understanding what that role truly entailed. That’s why I developed a comprehensive course embedded in our program. This course covers everything from the legal and operational frameworks to branding and scaling strategies.
We believe in the power of community and shared success. By integrating small businesses into a larger network of franchises, we create a support system where knowledge, resources, and successes are shared. This collaborative approach significantly reduces the isolation and pressure that small business owners often face.
What are the services Black Box offers that facilitate small businesses becoming franchises at such an affordable rate?
We are helping them learn the art of branding and scaling through franchising. We have also added a built-in course that educates them about the franchising world and what it means to be a franchisor. We are using Black Box Franchising to help educate and lift up small businesses across America.
We offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to transform small businesses into successful franchises. Our services include Branding and Marketing Support, Franchise Development, Training Programs, Financial Guidance, Community and Certification.
Making these services affordable is a key part of our mission. We achieve this through multiple strategies using Economies of Scale, Streamlined Processes, and Technology Integration.
What are the most important considerations a business owner needs to understand before going down the path to becoming a franchisor?
Deciding to become a franchisor is a significant step that requires careful consideration and planning. There are ten elements we consider: is it a proven business model, can you provide comprehensive training and support, understanding the legal and regulatory requirements, do you have the financial investment required, brand consistency, effective marketing strategies, operational systems, community and culture, long-term commitment, and risk management.
By carefully considering these factors and preparing thoroughly, business owners can set themselves up for success as franchisors. At Black Box Franchising, we guide business owners through each of these critical steps, providing the expertise and support they need to build a thriving franchise network. Our mission is to help businesses scale sustainably, creating lasting success and opportunities for growth.
I understand that you have eight emerging franchisors in the pipeline – congratulations! How long does it take to go from independent business to franchisor using the Black Box program?
Thank you! We’re excited to announce that we now have nine emerging franchisors in our pipeline. Each one of these businesses has a unique story and potential, and we are thrilled to help them on their journey to becoming successful franchisors.
The timeline from independent business to franchisor can vary depending on several factors, but generally, it takes about six to 12 months through the Black Box program. At Black Box Franchising, we understand that every business is different, and so are their needs. That’s why we create custom plans tailored to each business owner.
We also offer flexible payment plans and financing options to make our services accessible to businesses at different stages of development. Our team provides ongoing financial guidance and support to help them navigate the complexities of franchising without overwhelming their budget.
Does Black Box provide other services outside of converting businesses to franchises?
Absolutely. At Black Box Franchising, our mission extends beyond simply converting businesses into franchises. We offer a range of services designed to support and elevate small businesses at various stages of their journey.
One of our key services is franchise placement. We help brands that are already franchised find qualified candidates to join their network. Our goal is to create pathways for aspiring entrepreneurs to own and operate successful franchises, thereby promoting economic empowerment within our communities.
In addition to franchising services, we offer a comprehensive suite of business support services, including Business Development, Branding and Marketing, Training and Education, Financial Planning and Management, Franchise Sales and Matching, Trademark Services, and Community Building.
By offering these diverse services, Black Box Franchising ensures that businesses have the comprehensive support they need to achieve their full potential, whether they are looking to franchise or simply strengthen their existing operations
Black Man Executed In Alabama Despite Concerns Over His 1998 Conviction
In 2020, a federal court ruled that Gavin's court-appointed lawyers were ineffective.
Keith Edmund Gavin was put to death by the State of Alabama on July 18.
Although he was convicted by a jury of his peers for fatally shooting William Clayton Jr, a delivery driver, during a robbery attempt in 1998, questions remained about Gavin’s representation during his trial. Gavin attempted a last resort handwritten appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court to stay his execution, but it was rejected without comment nearly an hour before his execution.
According to the Equal Justice Initiative, in 2020 a federal court ruled that Gavin’s court appointed lawyers were ineffective and thus violated his right to counsel, ruling that he deserved to get a new sentencing trial on that basis under the Constitution. However, upon appeal, this ruling was overturned.
According to the EJI, “The Constitution guarantees effective assistance of counsel, which means that defense lawyers representing a person facing the death penalty are expected to investigate and present evidence demonstrating why the jury should reject the death penalty and impose a life sentence.”
The Associated Press reports, Gavin was convicted in 1998 of capital murder on a 10-2 vote, which in most states, except for Florida and Alabama, would not suffice to send someone to be executed. His lawyers, U.S. District Judge Karon O. Bowdre ruled, failed to present evidence of Gavin’s traumatic and abusive childhood, which could have persuaded the jury to sentence him to life in prison instead of death.
Activists delivered a petition to Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and asked her to grant clemency to Gavin on July 17, arguing that his trial may not have been fair and that the State of Alabama was going in the wrong direction regarding executions in the United States.
“In 2020, a federal judge ruled that Gavin’s legal representation during sentencing was constitutionally inadequate,” the petition read. “However, the Court of Appeals reversed this decision in 2022. International legal standards require effective legal assistance at all stages for those facing the death penalty. This standard was not met in Gavin’s case.”
The petition continued, “The vast majority of states with capital punishment continue on a downward trend of executions, Alabama has continued to go against trend by carrying on with scheduled execution dates. Additionally, Alabama has repeatedly shown that it is not capable of carrying out executions, as it is botching its lethal injection process—amounting to cruel punishment and the torture of prisoners.”
According to Bowdre’s ruling, Gavin’s lawyers were “totally unprepared for the penalty phase” and the two witnesses they called, Gavin’s mother and a minister who did not know Gavin prior to his arrest, were unprepared to testify before the court.
On appeal, the Eleventh Circuit decided that a federal court had to adhere to the ruling of Alabama’s state court, even if that ruling was incorrect. According to the EJI, Alabama’s criminal justice system makes it possible for people who face the death penalty to receive inadequate representation due to low compensation rates for capital offense attorneys and no statewide public defender system. This, the organization believes, results in Alabama leading the nation in death sentencing per capita, and execution rates.
The 64-year-old Gavin, a Muslim, also sued the Alabama Department of Corrections to stop them from conducting an autopsy on his body after he was executed, claiming that it would violate his faith. The DOC agreed to Gavin’s request, and he subsequently withdrew the suit. Alabama, which currently leads the country in executions in 2024, plans to add one more to its tally when it executes Alan Eugene Miller in September.
SheaMoisture’s Women En Blanc Honors Brunch Celebrates Brightest and Best Black Women In Various Industries
Smirnoff joined SheaMoisture to celebrate Black women excelling in various categories, including Champion, Community Impact, Sports, Influencer, Trailblazer, Game Changer, Entertainment, and Beauty that Bonds.
The fifth annual SheaMoisture Women En Blanc Honors Brunch, presented by Smirnoff, was held in grand fashion during Independence Day weekend in New Orleans. The all-white affair was a highlight for many Black women in NOLA.
Smirnoff joined SheaMoisture to celebrate Black women excelling in various categories, including Champion, Community Impact, Sports, Influencer, Trailblazer, Game Changer, Entertainment, and Beauty that Bonds.
Christal Jordan Jennings, founder of Enchanted Branding & Public Relations, welcomed the influential women in attendance and introduced Grammy award-winning singer/songwriter Crystal Nicole. The audience enjoyed performances of her inspirational new single, “Won’t Stop,” and the empowering track “Masterpiece,” which encourages women to recognize their individual beauty.
The brunch, hosted by Simone Jordan, head of purpose & brand partnerships at SheaMoisture, and Adrienne Trimble, global inclusion officer at Visa, honored numerous accomplished women. New York Times best-selling author and television personality Tabitha Brown, along with her business partner Gina Woods, received the Beauty that Bonds Award for their haircare brand, Donna’s Recipe by Tabitha Brown.
Brown praised the women in attendance and expressed gratitude for Woods, acknowledging her crucial role in their business success.
Basketball star and music artist Flau’Jae was recognized for her achievements on the court and her community service efforts. Jonnetta Patton was honored with the Influencer Award by Sysco for her contributions to the food service industry and her success managing her sons, R&B superstar Usher and producer J. Lack. Patton emphasized the importance of persistence and hard work in her speech, encouraging all the women present.
Other honorees included Keya Grant, supplier diversity & sustainable sourcing lead at Constellation Brands; Dr. Ni’Cola Mitchell, founder/executive director of Girls Who Brunch Tour, who received the Community Impact award from Smirnoff; Danyel Surrency Jones, head of Amazon Black Business Accelerator, who received the Trailblazer award by SheaMoisture; Felecia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition, who received the Game Changer Award from SheaMoisture; and Keanna ‘KRose’ Henson, founder of The Rose Effect, who received the Entertainment award.
Dr. Jeri Godhigh of the Atlanta-based Josie’s Girls non-profit organization surprised Insights Marketing CEO Keshia Walker with the 2024 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Godhigh praised Walker for her impactful work and recognized her as a champion for other women.
The brunch also welcomed special guests such as Sharon Page from the Steve Harvey Foundation, Racquel Colliste, Ebony Porter-Ike from EPI Media Group, designer Lisa Nicole Cloud from Married to Medicine, celebrity stylist and influencer Tameka Foster Raymond, and Akisha Holly Colon and Sophia Williams (So Gucci) from OWN’s Belle Collective.
Barack Obama Releases Statement After Joe Biden Ends Re-Election Bid
Obama also threw (tasteful) shade at Donald Trump.
Former President Barack Obama released a statement of support for President Joe Biden after his stunning July 21 announcement that he would not run for re-election.
Obam failed to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris under the guise of “navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead. But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges.”
The 62-year-old former commander-in-chief imparted kind words on his former vice president’s legacy and contribution to the nation.
“Sixteen years ago, when I began my search for a vice president, I knew about Joe’s remarkable career in public service. But what I came to admire even more was his character—his deep empathy and hard-earned resilience; his fundamental decency and belief that everyone counts.”
Obama continued, “Since taking office, President Biden has displayed that character again and again. He helped end the pandemic, created millions of jobs, lowered the cost of prescription drugs, passed the first major piece of gun safety legislation in 30 years, made the biggest investment to address climate change in history, and fought to ensure the rights of working people to organize for fair wages and benefits. Internationally, he restored America’s standing in the world, revitalized NATO, and mobilized the world to stand up against Russian aggression in Ukraine.”
Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded – again – that he’s a patriot of the highest order.
Obama also thanked Biden and his wife, Jill, on behalf of former first lady Michelle Obama, for their commitment to upholding the tenets of this nation’s founding. He also threw tasteful shade at Donald Trump.
“President Biden pointed us away from the four years of chaos, falsehood, and division that had characterized Donald Trump’s administration,” Obama wrote. “Through his policies and his example, Joe has reminded us of who we are at our best—a country committed to old-fashioned values like trust and honesty, kindness and hard work; a country that believes in democracy, rule of law, and accountability; a country that insists that everyone, no matter who they are, has a voice and deserves a chance at a better life. “
Obama’s decision not to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris suggests the party may seek another candidate despite Biden’s endorsement. Obama’s respect within the Democratic Party means his stance could significantly influence the direction of the nomination process.
Speaker Emerita of the House Nancy Pelosi also shared her thoughts on Biden’s decision not to continue in the 2024 presidential race.
“President Joe Biden is a patriotic American who has always put our country first,” she wrote on X. “His legacy of vision, values and leadership make him one of the most consequential Presidents in American history. With love and gratitude to President Biden for always believing in the promise of America and giving people the opportunity to reach their fulfillment. God blessed America with Joe Biden’s greatness and goodness.”
President Joe Biden is a patriotic American who has always put our country first. His legacy of vision, values and leadership make him one of the most consequential Presidents in American history.
With love and gratitude to President Biden for always believing in the promise of…
On July 21, Biden announced he was stopping his bid for re-election and named Harris as the person to take his place.
“My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today, I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee for our party this year. Democrats—it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.”
My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best…pic.twitter.com/x8DnvuImJV
Episcopal Diocese Of Mississippi Officially Installs First Black Woman Leader
Rev. Dorothy Sanders Wells was formally installed as the newest bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi on July 20.
Rev. Dr. Dorothy Sanders Wells was formally installed as the newest bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi on July 20, the first Black person and the first woman to hold the position. Wells has held the position since being elected in February 2024 and has been active in the role since May, but is now formally formally acknowledged by the church.
Wells isn’t focused on the historical significance of her appointment. “If it ends when our time together ends on Sunday mornings, then we have already missed the message,” Wells told AL.com. “That should be the beginning. When we walk out the doors, that becomes the beginning of us showing that radical love and hospitality.”
According to USA Today, Wells replaces Brian Seage, who guided the state’s Diocese through the COVID-19 pandemic and the Jackson, Mississippi, water crisis. Shortly after Wells’ election, Seage told the outlet, “This is a historic moment and this marks a new chapter in our history. It’s the first time we have elected a woman and the first time we have elected an African American as the bishop of the diocese. I think this speaks dramatically for this movement within our church.”
The installation was presided by Michael Curry, the first Black person to be the presiding bishop of the Catholic Church. Curry gained worldwide acclaim for his sermon at Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s wedding in 2011.
Wells’ election came after Sharma Lewis became the first Black woman to serve as bishop of the Mississippi United Methodist Church in 2022.
“I am truly humbled by the confidence that the council has placed in me, and I am so looking forward to working with the good people of the Diocese of Mississippi,” Wells told USA Today at the time. “We are reading all kinds of statistics and reports about declining church attendance and declining church engagement, but we know God is in the midst of all of this and I am looking forward to exploring with this Diocese all of the ways we can continue love God and love one another and serve our neighbors and care for the people around us.”
Wells hails from Mobile, Alabama, and earned a degree in vocal performance from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. She also holds a Juris Doctorate from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis, a master’s degree in divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary, and a doctorate in ministry from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University.
“When we had our meet and greets when I was able to get to know some of the people in the Diocese, I said then that I really want to get out into the districts,” she told USA Today. “I want to meet people. I want to meet clergy and I want to meet lay folks in these different convocations. I want to see what is happening in their ministry, and I want to get some good conversations going so that we can be good relationship builders together and be about the business of exploring the ways that we can serve God.”
Philadelphia Police Arrest Woman Who Allegedly Shot Toddler
Dominique Billips, 28, was arrested on suspicion that she shot a 7-month-old toddler.
Dominique Billips, 28, was arrested on suspicion that she shot a 7-month-old toddler on July 18. Billips is now facing charges of aggravated assault and violation of the Uniform Firearms Act in addition to other charges. She shot the youngster as allegedly opening fire on the child and her parents outside of a home in Philadelphia’s Holmesburg neighborhood.
According to ABC 6, Billips was identified as the shooter after a video surfaced showing a person with a gun walking up to a couple with a stroller and shooting. The child’s mother, who is also a juvenile, could be heard in the video repeatedly yelling, “My baby!” after shots were fired.
“You knew they had a stroller,” Lt. Denis Rosenbaum of the Philadelphia Police Department told ABC 6. “What makes you walk up to someone with a stroller and shoot them?”
The child was shot in the leg, according to police, and was nowhere to be found when police arrived. The parents, who had outstanding warrants, fled the scene due to fear of being arrested took the toddler w ith them. They were later brought in to be questioned and informed officers of an argument that happened earlier over a $100 narcotics dispute.
“One of the detectives from a different squad had recognized one of the females involved from another shooting where she was the victim in 2022,” Rosenbaum said. “It happened on the 4200 block of Rhawn Street in August of 2022.”
The police also got a tip that the shooting victim was on that video, which matches who the police thought it was. They also used the footage to locate a vehicle on the video, which was known to be used by Billips. Police found it with the assistance of the Pennsylvania Highway Patrol and a tip from someone they stopped who told them that Billips was at a house on Van Kirk.
According to Rosenbaum, “The suspect was asked to come out. She did and surrendered to the highway patrol officers. She was taken into custody without incident.”
Rosenbaum continued, “It’s sad, you see. She points the gun at the mother of the baby, who is also a juvenile, and fires. Luckily she missed, a 7-month-old baby might not remember that but that story is always going to be there.”
