Baltimore Police Releases Photos of Morgan State University Shooting Suspects, Asks for Public’s Help
The Baltimore Police Department has released new photos in an effort to identify two persons of interest in the recent Morgan State University shooting.
On Oct.10, the Baltimore Police Department updated the public on its investigation into the shooting that occurred on Oct. 3 just after 9 p.m with photos of two people they suspect are connected to the crime. The two Black men in the pictures are wearing black hoodies and black tennis shoes, with one in light, ripped jeans and the other in what appears to be darker colored pants as well as a crossbody bag.
“In reference to the shooting that occurred on October 3, 2023, on the campus of Morgan State University, Detectives have obtained additional photos and need your help identifying the persons seen in these photos,” the post from the police states. “Metro Crime Stoppers and ATF are offering a reward of up to $9,000 for a tip leading to an arrest and charges filed. Anyone with information is urged to contact Metro Crime Stoppers of Maryland at 1-866-7LOCKUP.”
Five victims were transported to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries after the shooting. Morgan State University decided to suspend all homecoming activities after the incident.
Students, faculty, and alumni who were gathered for the annual festivities were all ordered to stay inside on Oct. 3 until 12:23 a.m. as the police referenced the chaotic scene as an “active shooter situation.” Though no one was killed, concerns over the uptick in threats of violence against HBCUs continue to grow, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Alejandro Mayorkas, the United States Secretary of Homeland Security since February 2021, has made a vow to “…deepen our partnerships with HBCUs to protect students and faculty from an evolving range of threats.”
Wu-Tang And Nas Bring A New York State Of Mind To Hard Rock Tampa
If hip-hop has aged like fine wine, the Wu Tang Clan and Nas are two of the genre’s most well-versed sommeliers. The bold, one-of-a-kind flavor of RZA, Method Man, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa and Cappadonna combined with the slow, smooth, and irresistible flow of Nas created a pairing as germane to the genre as rhymes themselves. And with the backdrop of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, a true celebration of hip-hop’s place in music folklore took form for a special performance that put everyone in a “New York state of mind.”
The artists are on their N.Y. York State of Mind tour.
But it’s important to understand the true roots of a moment like this for rappers who seamlessly matriculated through what was arguably the most vicious period of hip-hop and lived to keep telling their stories unscathed. As two of the genre’s pioneering marque acts, Wu-Tang and Nas represent not only the roots of hip-hop but the dream of it.
“We’re really at the Hard Rock all because of this hip hop s***,” Method Man said to the crowd, who braved the last days of a Florida summer to see the acts perform alongside legendary rap group De La Soul.
“Can you believe this, man?” he added.
While reflecting on the essence of rap, Queensbridge’s finest could not help but remark on the gravity of still rocking crowds nearly three decades after the release of his debut album, Illmatic.
“My story could be completely different, so much different. I’m here because of a microphone,” Nas said.
For Hard Rock, celebrating hip-hop is not a special occasion but rather a necessity to understanding the reach, power, and history of music. In 2021, when the Senate passed a resolution marking November as Hip-Hop History Month, Hard Rock was the only hotel to celebrate the genre’s global impact via special events, merchandise, and performances.
“At Hard Rock, we believe music is a language that brings the world closer together. It’s part of our DNA,” said Keith Sheldon, president of entertainment at Hard Rock International. “As Hard Rock continues to evolve, just as music does, it’s unmistakable how hip-hop has impacted our brand over the years.”
Over 70 pieces of the genre’s most beloved memorabilia, from some of hip-hop’s most cherished acts, can be found throughout Hard Rock cafés, hotels, and casinos around the country.
But at the core of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa is a story that brings the experiences of two of the most misunderstood communities in this country together.
The acquisition of the Hard Rock brand by the Seminole Tribe of Florida in 2007 marked a story of resilience and resistance that could resonate with every hip-hop fan. As the only tribe in America to never sign a peace treaty, they formed a culture and community all their own, in spite of unthinkable violence and injustice.
“Our culture, our home, and our way of life joined us together,” a statement on their website reads. “We defended our homes and our people, and we became a refuge for those who sought freedom from conquest and slavery. For this, we were seen as a threat.”
From the Seminole Tribe of Florida, to the streets of Staten Island where the members of Wu-Tang connected, down to the cracked pavement of Queens where Nas painted pictures with prose, the spirit of hip-hop — that undeniable, unrelenting, bold refusal to be defined by the fears and biases of others — permeates.
“We for the people who love real hip-hop,” RZA said.
Mother Of Rapper YG’s Children Involved In Los Angeles Car Crash, Elderly Woman Killed
Catelyn Sparks, mother of Compton-born rapper YG’s children, was involved in a fatal crash that killed an 89-year-old woman, TMZ reports.
According to police reports, Sparks was driving a 2023 Tesla in Los Angeles on Oct. 11 when the victim, who was driving a 1985 Cadillac, made a U-turn in front of Sparks’ car, causing her to hit the driver’s side door. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Sparks was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Law enforcement officials say Sparks wasn’t under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident.
It’s not clear if YG and Sparks, who have two children together in their tumultuous union, are still romantically involved. The rapper was recently seen on vacation with “Icy Grl” rapper Saweetie.
After pictures went public, Sparks posted a message on social media saying, “Just because we got the same blood don’t make us family & just because we got kids don’t make us family, cuz with ‘family’ like mine? I rather not have any.”
“I dedicated my life to this music sh*t back even before my daughter came into play. It’s really for the best for all my people,” he said. “So when I’m gone, it be like, sh*t, I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing, because if I wasn’t doing this, I’d be at the house trying to figure out what the f*** to do so my people be straight.”
Black Pain Relief Specialist Celebrates 40 Years In Business, Launches 2nd Edition Of Reflexology Book
*Originally Published By Blacknews.com
Nationwide — Njideka Olatunde, a renowned pain relief educator and specialist based in Washington, DC with 40 years’ experience in the healthcare industry, is celebrating a major milestone in her career. She has provided chronic pain relief to clients with her expertise in Reflexology that has earned her recognition across the globe. In addition, she has recently launched the second edition of her book, Reflexology Today: A Family Affair.
Njideka, has dedicated her life to helping people overcome chronic pain using natural methods such as Reflexology Therapy. She has provided treatments to her clients for back pain, headaches, digestive issues, and many other conditions. Her gentle, non-invasive approach has won the hearts of many, and her reputation for being one of the best in the business has spread far and wide.
Throughout her career, Njideka has made significant contributions to the healthcare industry. Her work has been published in health books and journals, and she has spoken at various conferences across the world. She has also been invited to speak on numerous TV, radio and podcast programs sharing her expertise in Reflexology.
To celebrate her 40 years of service, Njideka has launched the second edition of her book, Reflexology Today: A Family Affair. This book is an updated version of her first edition, and it provides a comprehensive guide to Reflexology Therapy, outlining its benefits, and teaching readers how to apply it to their daily lives. The second edition includes new chapters on Reflexology for children, the elderly and pain care givers.
In her own words, Njideka said, “It has been an honor to serve my clients for the past 40 years. Reflexology is my passion, and it is gratifying to see how it has helped my clients improve their quality of life and my students, who are now my colleagues, share Reflexology with many. I am excited to launch the second edition of Reflexology Today A Family Affair and hope that it will continue to educate and inspire people to live a healthier life by taking back control of their life from pain using the healing power of touch.”
Reflexology Today: A Family Affair (ISBN:13:979-8362447007) is available on Amazon.
For press inquiries, contact nno@focusonhealing.com or 301-779-8005
South London Beauty Supply Owner Chokes Out Black Woman In Store, Now ‘Hiding’ From Protesters
Sohail Sindho, owner of Peckham Hair and Cosmetics in South London, is facing severe consequences from protesters in the wake of a widely publicized altercation that unfolded in his store on September 11, as reported by the Mirror UK.
The dispute, stemming from a disagreement over a refund, quickly escalated into a physical confrontation, during which Sindho was filmed strangling a Black woman.
The aftermath of the video has been tumultuous for Sindho, with South London residents vehemently boycotting his shop, expressing their frustrations about violence against women and the Black community. Protests emerged, and angered locals actively dissuaded potential customers from entering his establishment. While grappling with the repercussions, the businessman disclosed, “I have lost nearly everything.”
Consequently, he made the difficult decision to sell his business.
In an interview with MyLondon, Sindho stated, “If someone is living their normal life, then something like this happens, it’s life-changing.”
He emphasized that he didn’t harbor any fear of the protesters; every action he took reportedly was a measure to safeguard his family. He also said, “If these people think I’m scared of them, they’re mistaken.”
Sindho continued, “I’m a double graduate. I know how to make money. This is going to pass, and I’m going to make much more money than I did in this shop. And I’ve built 45 shops before in this market, everybody knows me. Once my family is safe and settled, I am going to open another hair shop, and these people are going to buy the same stuff from the same shop.”
The economic toll has been substantial, with Sindho revealing, “I have lost around £700,000.”
In addition to the financial strain, his children have endured hardship, subsisting on a diet of bread alone for a month. The ongoing turmoil has left a profound mark on Sindho’s mental well-being, prompting him to take precautionary measures, including withdrawing his children from school due to fears of potential attacks from protesters.
Nevertheless, the entrepreneur remained steadfast in his determination to rebuild his life. He asserted his commitment to returning to business once his family’s safety was assured. He also firmly defended strangling the Black woman, maintaining that he was defending himself and protecting his property.
In light of the public outcry, the incident is now under renewed police investigation, with ongoing inquiries. The shop has transitioned to new management, but the enduring protests have significantly impacted its daily operations.
Meet The Only French-Caribbean Designer Sold In St. Barts
“I believe that you create the change that you want to see,” MoAna Luu tells BLACK ENTERPRISE about the fashion house she unapologetically doused in her own Creole culture.
For Martinican creator and brand architect Luu, establishing her legacy requires a labor of love, a celebration of identity, and support from the Black community.
“I want to see change by us … by taking more space in the luxury market,” says Luu, who served as chief content creator for Essence and created designs for hotels and more in her previous careers. Her luxury heritage jewelry brand, MANLUU by MoAna Luu, is doing just that, having recently hosted its second anniversary celebration powered by Shop With Google.
“Life is about opportunities. There is plenty of space for everyone. It’s important to have each other’s backs,” she declares.
(Photo courtesy of MoAna Luu)
Through times of crisis, Luu created an opportunity to share what’s important to her to the world. The art of sharing transcended into a passion project and a fusion of heritage and high fashion.
“You don’t know what’s tomorrow,” she said of her COVID-19 recovery in 2020. “You need to find hope,” she continued, adding that risks also comes with its rewards.
Nearly three years later, Luu’s passion has no bounds. Among the big luxury conglomerates, Luu became the first Caribbean brand to sell her products in the French-Caribbean country that has been ranked as one of the most expensive travel destinations. St. Barts is not only known for its laid-back yet luxurious vibe, it is also a shopper’s paradise. Luu is gearing up for her second year of distribution.
Luu dedicated her first year to understanding the process of being in a large retailer. It’s one thing to have the partnership, but it’s “important,” she says, to keep it. So she leaned on other people’s experiences and advice.
In 2021, Luu took a leap and released a fine jewelry line that saw success in the first three months.
“Jewelry has always been an anchor in Creole culture,” Luu says. Each piece is symbolic, whether inspired by cane webbing of furniture or in collection names like “DouDou,” meaning “sweetheart.” The collections feature a diverse range of styles, from minimalist elegance to bold and avant-garde designs.
ManLuu’s “high jewelry” was selling on Goop and in Nordstrom stores as well as on its website. With pride, Luu recalled watching her brand attract media hits as celebrities such as Cardi B wore her stacked bracelets.
(Photo courtesy of ManLuu)
Success looks good for ManLuu when people connect with the brand.
“We stay authentic to who we are in accepting the fact that we are a melting pot of cultures,” Luu says.
From bold statement pieces to delicate everyday wear, including swimwear, ManLuu invites everyone to discover cherished objets d’art handed down through generations. This an ode to a Creole jewelry tradition dating back to the 1700s and 1800s.
(Photo courtesy of ManLuu)
Luu is very intentional in her storytelling.
“ManLuu was a perfect tool to share the story to the American market,” she explains. “To be in the luxury market, you have do it the right way. I’ve been working with a lot of Black creatives, so it was very important for me to bring them along on this project.”
Tracee Ellis Ross Announces New Co-CEO Of Pattern Beauty
PATTERN Beauty creator Tracee Ellis Ross is building her executive team. Former Savage X Fenty Co-PresidentChristiane Pendarvis has been named co-CEO of the award-winning company.
The move marks an “exciting and pivotal moment for the company, heralding a new era of growth,” according to a press release provided to BLACK ENTERPRISE. Pendarvis, who brings over 25 years of experience leading direct-to-consumer and omnichannel retail businesses, willdrive strategy to help further scale PATTERN Beauty.
“To be able to attract somebody of Christiane’s gravitas and business building caliber is precisely what PATTERN Beauty needs in order to continue executing on my vision for it to become the preeminent leader in the curly, coily, and tight textured hair category,” said Ellis Ross, per the release.
“I am thrilled to welcome her to the PATTERN Beauty family and look forward to her working closely with us for many years to come.”
Since launching the company in 2019, Ellis Ross has witnessed an astronomical expansion as the majority owner. She launched on patternbeauty.com through an exclusive partnership with Ulta Beauty. By 2021, PATTERN Beauty was on shelves in Sephora U.S. and Canada locations, followed by a launch at British health and beauty retailer Boots in 2022.
Pendarvis’ arrival comes just in time. Her career has focused on retail general management and merchandising, running $250 million to $1 billion operating businesses with Fortune 500 brands such as Old Navy and Victoria’s Secret. In the press release, she said she’s excited to be part of the PATTERN Beauty’s “continued growth and expansion.”
“I am thrilled to join the PATTERN Beauty team and be a part of a brand that fearlessly celebrates Black beauty in all its forms. Tracee, Rachel Gilman, and the entire PATTERN Beauty team have built a brand with superior quality products,” said Pendarvis.
“Their unique understanding of the specific hair care needs of their customers is the reason why the brand has such high customer loyalty and engagement,” Pendarvis added.
Taylor Swift Sings Her Praises Of Beyoncé After Joining Eras Tour Film Premiere
This one is for the Swifties and the Beyhive. Taylor Swift praised Beyoncé after the “Alien Superstar” appeared at Swift’s Eras Tour Film premiere.
Fans of both stars were happily surprised to see Beyoncé show up at the musical film premiere at The Grove in Los Angeles. According to Variety, the “Shake It Off” singer expressed her appreciation to all in the audience, including her fellow multi-Grammy-winning cohort Knowles, Adam Sandler, Julia Garner, and Flava Flav.
“I appreciate you being here because this night is a core memory for me, and you’re a part of it,” Swift said to the attendees, including handpicked songwriter fans.
After the premiere, Swift posted a video of her and Queen Bey having fun in the theater, and praised Beyoncé for her “influence” over her career.
“I’m so glad I’ll never know what my life would’ve been like without [Beyoncé’s] influence,” shared the 33-year-old with her 274 million followers. “The way she’s taught me and every artist out here to break the rules and defy industry norms. Her generosity of spirit. Her resilience and versatility. She’s been a guiding light throughout my career, and the fact that she showed up tonight was like an actual fairytale.”
Beyoncé and Swift also took photos on the red carpet, with the 42-year-old mogul keeping in the “Renaissance” theme with a full-length black bodysuit featuring a silver chest plate and matching sunglasses. Swift donned a light blue Oscar de la Renta gown.
This showcase of love between the two megastars comes after both had record-breaking world tours. Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour is also getting a film debut of its own, with the musical documentary film releasing in theaters Dec. 1.
Both movies are being released in a new partnership with AMC theaters, and presale tickets have skyrocketed as fans race to grab seats in the opening weekends.
Jackson State University, Getty Images Join Forces For Photo Exhibition Celebrating JSU’s Homecomings
Jackson State University (JSU) and Getty Images are teaming up for a photo exhibition on the spirited culture of JSU’s homecomings, from the early years through the present day.
“A JSU Homecoming Legacy: Connecting the Past to the Future” aligns with the 2023 homecoming theme. It will showcase 30 rarely seen images sourced from JSU’s Archives, now digitally accessible through Getty Images’ Photo Archive Grants Program for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), according to a press release received by BLACK ENTERPRISE.
Last year, JSU was one of four recipients for the Getty images Photo Archives Grant. The grant, funded by the Getty family and the philanthropic organization Stand Together, provides $500,000 to digitize HBCU photographic archives and has contributed to the digitization of 5,000 archival photos from JSU’s library.
A diverse, multigenerational group from JSU and Getty Images staff and administration helped assemble the display. The images reflect the history of Mississippi movements and highlights the significance of the university and homecoming to the community.
Visitors can expect to see images of early football teams, cheerleaders, the Sonic Boom of the South, the Prancing J-Settes, and of course a whole lot of Afros and bell-bottoms.
“Jackson State University has a tremendous Tiger legacy, and we are very excited to collaborate with Getty Images on the release of this exhibit and continue to build upon the foundations established around homecoming with students, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, and all included in the history of our HBCU,” said Locord Wilson, Ph.D., interim dean of libraries.
JSU’s H.T. Sampson Library is home of the university’s archives.
“We are proud to work with JSU and all other HBCUs to increase access to unique imagery and bring awareness to untold stories,” said Cassandra Illidge, vice president of global content partnerships at Getty Images. “A single photo can encompass a lifetime of experiences that help shape the world. This exhibition is … a celebration of the impact of HBCU’s history for generations to come.”
A group of committee members were instrumental in selecting the photos for the exhibition, including Brittany Myburgh, Ph.D., assistant professor of art history in the Department of Art and Theatre; Mark Geil, interim chair and associate professor in the Department of Art and Theatre; JSU archivist Darlita Ballard; and Getty Images curator Shawn Waldron.
“The fact that the Getty Images program has supported our students in learning the archival skills they need to preserve and tell this history is truly significant,” Myburgh said. “Our students are the next generation of archivists and historians who will tell the story of Jackson State University and continue this legacy.
“To tell the story of Jackson State University in one exhibit is no small task, but these images truly capture the milestones of this HBCU and the joy and celebration of homecoming.”
The exhibition will open to the public on weekdays from Oct. 11 through Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Johnson Hall Art Gallery on JSU’s main campus. Guests can purchase images seen on display at the exhibition using onsite brochures via photos.com.
Toni-Michelle Williams Named Grand Marshal of ATL Pride Festival
Toni-Michelle Williams is taking the reins for Atlanta’s 2023 Pride Festival.
The executive director of SnapCo, an alternative justice organization led by Black trans people, has been selected as one of the grand marshals for the equality event, to be held Oct.14 and 15.
SnapCo, officially known as Solutions Not Punishment Collaborative, is dedicated to keeping Atlanta safe and developing safer alternatives to police interference for all its residents. Williams has been a founding member since the organization’s 2015 establishment.
The social justice organization is encouraging its “mafia” to join the march and be part of the cause to promote equality in all forms.
As grand marshal, activist Williams will help lead the march during the two-day festivities.
“For me, being chosen as a Grand Marshal is more than an honor; it’s a reminder of the power of resilience and unity,” Williams said. “Atlanta Pride represents our unwavering commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive Atlanta. Together, we’re turning dreams into realities, showing up and showing out one fabulous step at a time.”
The community leader was selected out of more than 50 nominees.
“Toni-Michelle embodies those attributes in her tireless commitment to giving voice to Black, Trans and Queer communities,” shared Steven Igarashi-Ball, director of equity & engagement for Atlanta Pride. “Year-round, she is always willing to ‘Show Up & Show Out’ in an effort to advance social justice and equality. Our community is fortunate to have her leadership and advocacy.”
The celebration of this inclusive community will be accompanied by performances from queer artists such as Saucy Santana. Williams’ participation in this year’s festival seeks to only spread more awareness of the work she is doing for the betterment of Atlanta.
