Hip-hop is more than beats and bravado. It is a cultural force that can change any stage it touches. Over the years, a growing group of artists has moved from the studio to the concert hall. Artists have shown that storytelling and orchestral music are not opposites but natural partners. From trap pioneers to lyrical architects, artists are changing how rap sounds in elevated spaces. We highlight the rappers who took hip-hop to symphony halls.
Nas
The Queensbridge, New York, rapper Nas performed his iconic album “Illmatic” with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the impactful album. The musical arrangement used orchestral instruments to enhance both the emotional power and musical complexity of his narrative delivery.
Kendrick Lamar
The multi-platinum rapper Kendrick Lamar performed several tracks from his album “To Pimp a Butterfly” with the National Symphony. The performance presented his politically charged jazz-infused hip-hop music to a broader audience at the Kennedy Center on Oct. 20, 2015, demonstrating the orchestral elements of Lamar’s award-winning album and its place in contemporary American music.
Rick Ross
Rick Ross performed as the main artist at Red Bull Symphonic at Atlanta Symphony Hall back in November 2022. The performance at the Woodruff Art Center brought together Rick Ross and Orchestra Noir to create new versions of his songs, merging hip-hop with classical music while celebrating Black achievement in both genres.
Jeezy
On Jan. 27, the Atlanta Symphony Hall hosted Jeezy, who performed as part of a new concert series that unites hip-hop artists with orchestral musicians. The series works to connect urban audiences with orchestral venues while using classical instruments to enhance trap music.
Wyclef Jean
Wyclef Jean, the Haitian-American rapper and producer who co-founded Fugees, organized the Night of Symphonic Hip-Hop, which brought him to perform with orchestras at multiple concert halls. The series amplifies hip-hop through orchestral performances while honoring its musical depth against classical music traditions.
Killer Mike
Killer Mike performed with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on May 21, 2024, as a full-length original orchestral concert. The concert used orchestral arrangements to transform the Atlanta artist’s music into a deeper musical experience, which showcased Black artistic presence in classical music venues.
RZA (Wu-Tang Clan)
RZA, who founded the Wu-Tang Clan and works as a producer and composer, created “A Ballet Through Mud,” which the Colorado Symphony Orchestra performed as a complete orchestral ballet score. RZA reworked the musical arrangement of “The 36th Chamber of Shaolin.” The world premiere took place in 2023. Through spoken word, orchestral elements, and ballet, RZA brings his stories to life.
Kandi Burruss Announces Divorce From Todd Tucker After 11 Years Of Marriage
'After deep thought and a lot of prayer, I’ve made the decision to move forward with a divorce,' the reality star announced.
Kandi Burruss is officially ending her marriage to Todd Tucker after more than a decade together, marking a major personal shift for the longtime “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star. Burruss confirmed the news in a statement to People, sharing that the decision came after significant reflection.
“After deep thought and a lot of prayer, I’ve made the decision to move forward with a divorce,” she said, calling the moment “difficult and emotional.” She emphasized that her priority now is “protecting my peace, being the best mother I can be, and co-parenting with love and respect.”
Burruss added that she is entering “a new chapter pouring into my work, my family, and my own growth,” and asked fans for “privacy, grace, and understanding” during the transition.
Burruss, 49, and Tucker, 52, first met in 2011 while filming season four of RHOA, where Tucker worked behind the scenes. They got engaged in early 2013 and married the following April. Over the years, the couple welcomed two children together—Ace, now 9, and Blaze, 5—while also raising Burruss’ daughter Riley, 23, and Tucker’s daughter Kaela, 29, from previous relationships.
During their marriage, the pair frequently spoke about the strength of their partnership. In 2022, Burruss said their bond was rooted in “just great communication and having fun together,” noting that “We have a real understanding of each other.”
Their professional lives became deeply intertwined as well. Together, they built multiple Atlanta-based businesses, including a Georgia-based soul-food restaurant chain, a trucking company, and a Bravo spinoff centered on their family and restaurant operations.
Just last month, Burruss publicly thanked Tucker while accepting the Wifetime Achievement Award at The Bravos during BravoCon 2025. In her speech, she acknowledged the ups and downs they’d weathered together: “To Todd, thank you for surviving the blogs, the shade, the rumors, the lies, the truth, the almost fights, the actual fights, the reunions… You earned this award, too.”
Despite the split, Burruss’ recent comments suggest the two remain aligned in supporting their children and moving forward with respect.
Indiana Hospital Fires Two Staff After Mother Gives Birth In Truck Minutes After Discharge
Mercedes Wells' experience at Franciscan Health Crown Point highlights disparities in Black women's birth experiences.
Franciscan Health Crown Point in Crown Point, Indiana, has dismissed a doctor and nurse after a pregnant woman, Mercedes Wells, said she was wrongly discharged while in active labor, ultimately giving birth in a truck just minutes after leaving the hospital. The hospital’s CEO, Raymond Grady, acknowledged the incident in a Nov. 21 statement, calling the now-viral footage “difficult to watch.”
“We failed to listen to Mrs. Wells’ concerns,” Grady said, noting that “as an experienced mother who publicly acknowledged having previously given birth at our hospital with a positive experience, she knew something was not right.” He added that the hospital must correct the failures that led to what happened so that “no one experiences what happened to Mercedes Wells.”
Wells said she arrived at the Crown Point facility shortly after midnight on Nov. 16, believing labor had begun. In a Facebook post, she wrote that she never saw a doctor and that nurses told her she was not progressing. She toldNBC Chicago that when a nurse returned to her room, she was told, “Well, if you’re not further along in your centimeters, then you know we’ve got to send you home.”
Wells and her husband, Leon, said they pleaded with staff not to discharge her, but were told it was the “doctor’s orders.” Viral videos posted to Leon’s social media show Mercedes being wheeled out of the hospital in tears.
The family left for Community Hospital in Munster, only to realize minutes into the drive that the baby was coming. Leon helped deliver their daughter in the truck. “I saw her pushing … pulled a little bit, baby came out and just didn’t know what to do,” he said. “I just prayed.”
Wells recalled being terrified. “I was scared,” she said. “I didn’t know what to do.”
Their daughter, Alena, was reported to be healthy by Nov. 18, though Wells said the experience could have ended far differently. “It could have gone any way and I wasn’t being cared for by a professional,” she said.
Grady said the video circulating online “does not reflect the values of Franciscan Health Crown Point,” and confirmed that both the nurse and physician involved “are no longer employed.” The hospital is introducing cultural competency training and now requires physicians—not only nurses—to assess any pregnant patient before discharge.
Wells’ family has said they believe racial bias played a role. Grady said he has reached out and hopes to meet with them soon.
Illinois Rep. Robin Kelly plans to stand with Wells next week as she introduces legislation addressing maternal health disparities. The CDC estimates that around 50,000 women nationwide deal with major pregnancy complications annually. The agency also notes a stark racial gap and reports that Black women are at least three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women.
People are reconsidering their approach to holidays.
Socially and economically, the changing times present an opportunity to move beyond traditional ways of celebrating holidays, particularly Thanksgiving Day. As the dynamic of American households shifts, families are reconsidering their approach to gathering and expressing gratitude. While coming together with loved ones around the dining table to feast on the classic turkey dinner remains a staple, alternative practices such as volunteer activities, “friends‑giving” celebrations, destination dining experiences, and purely gratitude-focused moments are becoming more popular. Opinions about eating turkey and other food consumed on Thanksgiving Day are changing, indicating a fundamental shift in holiday observance practices.
If you are looking for other ways to spend Thanksgiving, here are eight non-traditional approaches to consider.
Host A ‘Friendsgiving‘ Instead Of The Usual Family Feast
Organize a “Friendsgiving” event as an alternative to a conventional family Thanksgiving dinner, inviting friends and loved ones. The Thanksgiving-style event takes place around Thanksgiving Day at a friend’s residence or shared space. Some people don’t want to attend traditional family gatherings, while others face physical barriers that prevent them from attending. The alternative gathering fosters community through potluck contributions, where attendees share homemade dishes.
Volunteer At A Food Bank Or Serve A Community Meal
During Thanksgiving Day or the holiday weekend, volunteer at a food bank or serve a community meal. Organizations that assist people who face food insecurity need your help to sort food, pack boxes, cook, and distribute meals. Through the Feeding America network, you can volunteer at a local food bank or pantry by signing up for a shift.
Switch Up The Menu
Hosts and guests who want to break from traditional Thanksgiving dishes may find globally inspired options or turkey alternatives appealing. Serve alternative main courses and side dishes to replace traditional turkey and stuffing. The Thanksgiving meal transition between traditional and alternative dishes can occur either at the dining table or in the kitchen. During the holiday, serve roast chicken, smoked ham, vegetarian mains, or international dishes to bring fresh flavors and honor different tastes and cultural backgrounds.
Take A Nature Or Community Hike/Race
Join a nature or community hike/race with families, friend groups, or fitness-minded folks instead of jumping into a long feast. Take a morning hike or walk in a park, or join a Thanksgiving-day run/walk. Look up local race events or organize your group to go outside before eating.
Create A ‘Gratitude Share‘
Develop a “Gratitude Share” practice during mealtimes, which extends beyond just eating. The practice works well with both small and extended groups. Allocate specific time during the day for verbal or written gratitude expression instead of focusing only on food. People can share their appreciation either before or after the meal in a lounge area or around the dining table. The goal is to restore the true meaning of Thanksgiving through intentional gratitude and reflection instead of taking it for granted. Everyone shares one item of appreciation while optionally writing cards to be collected later.
Travel For The Day: Mini‐Getaway Instead Of Hosting At Home
Consider spending Thanksgiving with family or friend groups on a mini-getaway instead of hosting at home. Consider the option to stay in a cabin or beach house, or visit a specific destination. This approach minimizes hosting pressure while generating fresh experiences and turns the day into a brief vacation. Plan your travel and accommodation in advance while making meal arrangements simpler through restaurant or catering options.
Turn The Day Into A Giving Back Holiday For Family Bonding
Transform your Thanksgiving Day into a time for community service while strengthening family bonds. Dedicate part of your Thanksgiving Day to community service activities with your family instead of solely focusing on food preparation and eating. Your family can participate together in community service activities, such as park cleanups or assisting at a homeless shelter. Your younger family members will learn about gratitude and service through this activity, while the family’s focus shifts from consumption to contribution. Your family can combine their meal with service activities to add more enjoyment to the experience. Research volunteer opportunities that match your family’s interests before combining your meal with service activities.
Host A ‘Game Day‘ Instead Of Traditional Football + Dinner
Replace traditional football and dinner with a “Game Day” or creative competition event for households, friend groups, and multi-generational families. Organize a structured “Game Day” (board games, video games, family tournaments) or creative challenge (cook-off, talent show) instead of watching football. During Thanksgiving Day (post-meal or as part of a gathering). Living room, backyard, game room, Zoom if remote. Create an interactive, inclusive environment for all ages throughout the day, focusing on children and individuals who show less interest in football.
Jameela Allen Breaks Down Running A Multimillion-Dollar Childcare Enterprise
Allen, CEO and founder of Themba Creative Learning Center, discusses her success as a seven-figure income earner in the childcare industry.
Jameela Allen is the CEO and founder of Themba Creative Learning Center. Her excitement comes from helping other childcare owners enjoy the fruits of their labor. With her industry knowledge, successes, and failures, she offers guidance on how to build a financially thriving operation and a life that provides others with freedom and options. BLACK ENTERPRISE recently caught up with Allen to discuss how she has achieved success as a seven-figure income earner in the childcare industry.
BE: When did you know you wanted to build an empire in the childcare industry?
Allen: From a young age, I had a profound vision of making a transformative impact in the childcare industry, and owning my own childcare center was the ultimate aspiration. My experience as a childcare assistant at a top-notch child development center during my freshman year at West Virginia State University ignited an unrelenting passion within me.
BE: Share briefly about your entrepreneurial journey.
Allen: After a decade of dedication as a public-school teacher and the founder of a nonprofit organization that provided free enrichment activities to low-income youth, I realized my true calling was to create my own nurturing early learning environment where children could thrive. I embarked on a journey to pursue my vision of owning a childcare center, driven by an insatiable desire to learn and grow.
While teaching and running my nonprofit, I earned a Master’s in Public Administration and supplemented my knowledge with early childhood courses, empowering myself with the expertise to excel in every aspect of my future business. With unwavering determination, I transformed my vision into reality, which birthed Themba Creative Learning Center in 2007.
Eighteen years later, I proudly reflect on this pivotal decision, which has been a testament to the power of courage, resilience, and strategic risk-taking. By leveraging my financial acumen and investing in my dream, I created a vibrant community that has flourished for nearly two decades, inspiring a sense of pride and fulfillment that continues to propel me forward.
BE: Talk about your team and the staff you work with.
Allen: I am truly humbled and grateful to work alongside my extraordinary Dream Team, who embody the very essence of excellence. My staff of 30 dedicated individuals, including my remarkable director, Mrs. Rashadah, whom I fondly call “my angel,” along with three exceptional members of my Admin Team, are the driving force behind my success.
Furthermore, my Dream Team has been instrumental in helping me receive many awards and local recognition as the best small business in Prince George’s County, an honor bestowed upon us by the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce.
Jameela and Rashadah; Photo Credit: Phelan Marc
BE: What were some of your greatest challenges, and how did you overcome them?
Allen: Early in my entrepreneurial journey, I realized that the primary obstacle to success was my own mindset. I had to shift from a mentality of scarcity to one of abundance. Initially, I ran my childcare business with a ‘Mom & Pop shop’ mentality, lacking effective leadership and systems. I faced immense stress and anxiety, which led to repeated emergency room visits, as I thought I might be having a panic attack and a heart attack all at the same time. The experience was overwhelming.
Poor hiring practices and inadequate tools hindered our productivity and profitability. Many people told me that there was no money to be made in the childcare industry.
However, a visit with my mentor, Mr. Turner, was a turning point. He encouraged me to read the IBIS report, which revealed that the childcare industry was a $60 billion industry. This newfound understanding prompted me to reevaluate my approach. I recognized that everything rises and falls on leadership. I made the pivotal decision to invest in myself. I started dressing professionally, wearing a suit to work, to reflect the success I aspired to achieve. I also invested in my team, providing them with matching uniforms to promote a sense of professionalism. To further develop my leadership skills, I hired a coach, attended business conferences, and I listened to motivational speakers like Les Brown and Zig Ziglar. I prioritized continuing education for my director and staff, creating a comprehensive 90-day onboarding process to ensure we hired and retained top talent.
BE: What does it take for a childcare owner to go to the next level and achieve 6- and 7-figure success?
Allen: To unlock your full potential as a leader, it’s essential to recognize the importance of leadership. Cultivating key characteristics like perseverance, tenacity, grit, and passion will empower you to inspire your team and propel them to new heights.
Implementing the 3 Ps—people, product, and processes—is also vital. You’ll want to surround yourself with People who possess the ideal blend of temperament, attitude, and passion for working with young children. To achieve greatness, you must be resilient and motivated to push through challenges.
Offering a superior product is crucial. My aspiration is to provide cutting-edge early childhood development programs that set us apart. We achieve this by offering unique programs like foreign language classes, dance, yoga, science, PE, STEM education, chess, and organic gardening. By encouraging our team to pursue teaching certifications, we ensure that parents can trust us with their children’s education and well-being.
Lastly, establishing excellent Processes is essential. Our effective 90-day onboarding process, accountability measures, and continuous learning from mistakes enable us to refine our operations and maintain exceptional standards.
BE: Who is your mentor, and how do you feel about mentor relationships?
Allen: I’ve been truly blessed to have had some incredible mentors throughout my life, and I firmly believe that having a mentor is a game-changer that can catapult you to unprecedented heights.
My parents have been amazing mentors, teaching me valuable life lessons and sharing their wisdom in ways that have shaped me into the person I am today.
On a professional level, I’ve been inspired by Sandra Yancey, Les Brown, John Maxwell, and the late Earl Nightingale, who have all served as mentors and role models, showing me what it means to live a life of purpose, passion, and integrity. Learning from them has been a truly uplifting experience that has inspired me to reach for greatness and make a meaningful difference.
Will Your Benefits Disappear? Understanding The New SNAP Rules Set To Shrink Recipient Count
New SNAP work requirements take effect in December and could significantly reduce the number of recipients over the next decade.
As federal SNAP benefits start returning to low-income households, many recipients must now brace for new work requirements that take effect in December.
The 43-day government shutdown halted the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which supports more than 40 million Americans, averaging $190 per person. Since the government reopened on Nov. 12, states have been working to issue delayed November payments, and December benefits are expected to go out on schedule.
However, many SNAP users will now encounter new work requirements introduced by the Trump administration, AP reports.
When Trump signed the “One Big Beautiful Bill” in July, he broadened work rules for many adult SNAP recipients, requiring them to work, volunteer, or attend job training for at least 80 hours a month. Those who don’t meet the requirement can receive benefits for only three months within a three-year period.
Previously, these rules applied to able-bodied adults ages 18 to 54 without dependents, but the new law extends them to individuals ages 55 to 64 and to parents without children under 14. It also removes exemptions for homeless people, veterans, and young adults transitioning out of foster care, while placing tighter limits on states seeking to waive requirements in areas with limited job opportunities.
The Trump administration temporarily paused the work requirements in November, but the three-month limit on receiving SNAP benefits without meeting the new requirements will begin in December. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the new rules will reduce the average monthly SNAP rolls by roughly 2.4 million people over the next decade.
The Trump administration has shared considerations to require all SNAP recipients to reapply to combat alleged fraud and waste. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has cited alleged cases of deceased individuals and people receiving multiple benefits. It’s unclear whether she is calling for new rules or simply referring to existing recertification requirements, which already require most households to report income every 4–6 months and fully renew benefits at least once a year.
On Nov. 20, the USDA confirmed it will continue using the current verification system for SNAP recipients.
“Rates of fraud were only previously assumed, and President [Donald] Trump is doing something about it. Using standard recertification processes for households is a part of that work,” a USDA spokesperson said in a statement. “As well as ongoing analysis of State data, further regulatory work, and improved collaboration with States.”
12 Ways To Cut Holiday Shopping Costs As Spending Estimated To Surpass $1 Trillion
Sticking to a budget and researching prices, discounts and sales on items you want to buy can help lower holiday spending.
In an unprecedented way, Americans are anticipated to spend over $1 trillion during the quickly approaching holiday shopping season.
The colossal forecast for November and December 2025 from the National Retail Federation comes as the trade group predicts U.S. consumers will make this the costliest Christmas ever. The bonanza is expected to occur despite turbulence, such as an uncertain economy, unemployment, and tariffs which are likely to boost the price of many gifts people plan to buy.
Overspending can surface as shoppers fall prey to bad moves like impulse buying for friends and family. And lavishness can fuel other types of irresistible spending that may lead to excessive generosity.
Consumers plan to spend nearly $891 on average this year on holiday gifts, food, and other items. Those findings are from NRF’s latest holiday survey, done by Prosper Insights & Analytics, not tied to the holiday sales prediction. The new average is supposedly the second largest in the survey’s 23-year history.
Another report from the BMO Real Financial Progress Index predicts even more spending, including retail outlay, travel, and entertainment. It surmises Americans will spend an average of nearly $2,800 this season, up over $1,000 from 2024. As such, the analysis states 70% of consumers are setting firmer budgets for the holiday season, and over 65% report they are changing their shopping method because of tariffs.
“The holidays this year come on the heels of a period defined by inflation and price volatility for everyday items, leaving many consumers confused and stressed as they plan for year-end festivities,” stated Paul Dilda, head of U.S. consumer strategy at BMO. “Against this backdrop, shoppers are changing their behaviors – spending more in some areas, cutting back in others, and trying to build budgets that they can stick to over the holidays.”
Simultaneously, this holiday season is coming with cautious optimism. According to the 2025 Economic Impact Survey from Nationwide, some 55% of Americans are secure with their financial situation. Yet 42% aim to spend less this holiday season than last year. 38% will purchase gifts, and 20% say they won’t buy any presents.
The bright side is that there are many ways to help cut holiday splurging and assist with carrying less of that debt, or potentially none, into 2026. Based on BLACK ENTERPRISE research, the steps could include:
Set up a budget and adhere to it. Be specific on how much you will spend on each item, whether it’s gifts, food, or other categories. Regularly check if you are staying on track.
Make a thorough shopping list containing who you’re buying for, a spending estimate, and details to prevent excess spending.
Shop early for discounts and sales, before the stampede, to help stop last-minute spending and possibly higher prices.
Use cash or debit cards, as opposed to credit cards for purchases. Data shows people using credit cards often overspend. Further, paying with money helps you tangibly see what you’re spending and stay within your budget.
Avoid store credit cards that offer one-time discounts if you open one. The cards often levy high interest rates and other costly fees. They can create impulse buying by nudging you to buy more gifts than initially planned.
Be diligent about not making unplanned purchases or not using part of the money you have set aside for spending.
Do research on discounts and sales before you shop. Check online to see how much the item you want to buy is at retail stores. Check Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales and look for digital or paper coupons from retailers.
Don’t be afraid to use a holiday gift exchange. This can be done with family or friends and cut spending. Set a budget for the gift swap so the financial expectations are equal for all.
Homemade gifts can be a nifty way to save money. They might not work for everyone, but can be memorable. For example, photos for grandparents or cookies for others close to you could be good options.
Shop at unorthodox places like yard sales, thrift stores, resale sites, and social media to search for less pricy gifts. You might spot vintage gifts that are more special than new ones.
Use unspent gift cards, vouchers, or store credits that can still work to buy presents. It could be a savvy way to obtain a gift for basically free.
Do your homework online to explore websites like Credit.com offering practical tips on how to cut holiday spending.
Be one of the first to purchase 'Monopoly: Wu-Tang Clan Edition'
All hip-hop and Wu-Tang Clan fans can make it a game night with the upcoming release of “Monopoly: Wu-Tang Clan Edition.”
According to Bleeding Cool, the release from Op Games will have your holiday parties lit with the latest Monopoly game that takes the rules and protocol of the original board game, but replaces them with items and places associated with the Staten Island hip-hop collective.
Grab your friends and crank the volume on 36 Chambers, as Monopoly: Wu-Tang Clan Edition is now available for the holidays. #Monopoly#WuTangClan#Tabletop#BoardGames
The Wu-Tang Edition of the classic board game can be purchased via pre-order, with the game set to be shipped in December, just in time to gather friends and family to play along with you for the holidays.
“Three decades later, The Wu-Tang Clan remains a household name, well-known by fans of all ages,” said Dane Chapin, CEO of The Op, in a written statement. “We are thrilled to merge one of the most influential Hip-Hop groups of all time with one of America’s favorite tabletop games in this new edition of Monopoly: Wu-Tang Clan Edition, and we’re so excited to see this title span generations and entertain the whole family.”
The game promises to take you through some of the group’s tour stops, including a stop in St. Louis on Aug. 30, 2022, up until the collective’s recent Las Vegas Residency. There are six custom sculpted tokens, featuring the Wu-Tang symbol, killer bee, nunchucks, record, microphone, and samurai sword. You will also see poster art from some of Wu-Tang Clan’s shows throughout the world and showcase some of the group’s moments captured on the game’s exclusive Community Chest and Chance Cards.
The board game can be purchased through the Wu-Tang Clan website, where only 720 units are available for pre-sale. The games are expected to ship in the first week of December.
Features include:
Custom Wu-Tang Game Board
3 Exclusive Wu Monopoly Tokens: the Boot, Sword, and Vinyl limited to the first 500 orders
28 Title Deed Cards
16 Enter the Wu-Tang Cards
16 Wu-Tang Community Cards
32 Houses renamed Gold Singles
12 Hotels renamed Platinum Singles
Money, Dice, Rules
Stunning Poster Art From Wu-Tang’s Epic Tour Stops
Court Dates Set For NBA Player And Coach Caught In Gambling Scandal
All three have been charged with wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy
After being arrested for their alleged roles in an illegal gambling scheme, Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups (currently on unpaid leave) and former NBA player Damon Jones are slated to appear in court Nov. 24, with Miami Heat player Terry Rozier (also not playing, nor getting paid) scheduled for Dec. 8.
According to USA Today, the three men, who were arrested Oct. 23, after being accused of partaking in illegal sports betting and rigged poker games, will be in federal court in Brooklyn for their next appearance. Billups will be arraigned on charges of wire fraud, conspiracy, and money laundering conspiracy. Jones and Rozier are charged with wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy.
“As alleged, the defendants turned professional basketball into a criminal betting operation, using private locker rooms and medical information to enrich themselves and cheat legitimate sportsbooks,” United States Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. said. “This was a sophisticated conspiracy involving athletes, coaches, and intermediaries who exploited confidential information for profit.”
The government has accused NBA Hall of Famer Billups of participating in “rigged” gambling and poker games that took place in various places, including Manhattan, Miami, Las Vegas, and the Hamptons, according to officials. The illegal games were attended by members of at least three of New York’s mafia families.
Authorities say Billups and Jones, a former NBA player, were being paid for participating in the games, with Jones requesting a partial prepayment of $2,500 before attending one of the poker games. Rozier, who, earlier this year, was cleared by the NBA of gambling accusations, was allegedly sharing information about players on a team’s roster with bettors before games were played.
According to CNN, investigators allege that between December 2022 and March 2024, Rozier tipped people off about his availability for games. They cited seven specific games, including one against the New Orleans Pelicans, which had already been flagged by sportsbooks for irregular activity.
Health Leaders Criticize CDC Website Change With False Information On Vaccine and Autism Link
Officials in Illinois, New York, and Hawaii are rejecting the CDC’s unfounded claims and the list is growing.
Health officials and public health experts from states nationwide are criticizing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for recent changes to its website, stating that the link between autism and vaccines has not been definitively ruled out.
Officials in Illinois, New York, and Hawaii are rejecting the CDC’s unfounded claims, and KFF Health News notes that the list of those frustrated is growing.
Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), who is a medical doctor, stated on X that “What parents need to hear right now is vaccines for measles, polio, hepatitis B, and other childhood diseases are safe and effective and will not cause autism.”
He added, “Any statement to the contrary is wrong, irresponsible, and actively makes Americans sicker.”
Leaders at the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDAP) at the University of Minnesota say the CDC is no longer “trustworthy.”
Scientific information on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website has been replaced with anti-vaccine talking points that don’t rule out the link between vaccines and autism, despite an abundance of evidence that there is no connection.
As CIDAP News points out, the CDC reversed its language on its website on Nov. 19. At the top of the page, it now reads “studies have not ruled out the possibility that infant vaccines cause autism.”
Until the change, the CDC webpage stated, “Studies have shown that there is no link between receiving vaccines and developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). No links have been found between any vaccine ingredients and ASD.”
Health Leaders Say CDC’s Vaccine and Autism Link Is A ‘Tragic Day’ For Public Health
While CIDAP leaders call the CDC’s reversals “a tragic day” for public health, other health professionals warn that the messaging is dangerous.
“This is madness,” Dr. Sean O’Leary, head of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ infectious diseases committee, said during a media briefing Thursday. “One thing that is very clear is that vaccines are not one of those things. They do not cause autism. Period.”
In a statement put out by the Autism Science Foundation President, Alison Singer, she stated:
“The facts don’t change because the administration does. At this point, it’s not about doing more studies. It’s about being willing to accept what the existing study data clearly show.
“You can’t just ignore data because it doesn’t confirm your beliefs, but that’s what the administration is doing.”
