Dead Prez, M1, alopecia, daughter, support, journey, national alopecia month,, shaved head

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

October 2, 2023

M1 Of Dead Prez Shaves His Head In Support Of Daughter’s Alopecia Journey

M1 of the rap group Dead Prez shared a heartwarming video showing his unwavering support of his daughter during her alopecia journey.

The “Hip Hop” rapper (real name Mutulu Olugbala) took to Instagram on September 30 to share a video of his daughter Mali shaving his head. It was a “special” moment for M1 and his family, as Mali “is enduring this journey” with alopecia.

“Hi, everybody. I’m Mutulu Olugbala, and my wife and family are all around me. As a matter of fact, Mali come here,” M1 said while introducing his daughter who came with clippers in hand. “We’re gonna do something special today, and it’s gonna start like this.”

As Mali shaved her father’s head, M1 explained why he was shaving his head.

“The reason why I am shaving my head is because I am taking a journey with my daughter through alopecia,” he said.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mutulu Olugbala (@m1deadprezrbg)

The rapper went on to explain what alopecia is and how it affects those dealing with the disease.

“Since my daughter is enduring this journey I have decided to [shave my head, too].”

Photos in the slide show M1 and Mali smiling side by side, as well as photos with his two children and congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, who is an inspiration to Mali and her family. In his caption, the “Hell Yeah” rapper asked for birthday wishes for Mali’s 11th birthday and expressed pride in being her dad.

M1 also explained why he decided to shave his head for National Alopecia Month.

“And as you can see we are taking on this journey with her alopecia together! If you wonder why I cut my hair (even tho some of you may be glad 😂) it is in solidarity with Mali and it also happens to be National Alopecia Month,” he wrote. “I am blown away by her courage daily and love being her Dad.”

Kountry Wayne, child support, 200k, baby mamas, woman's prayer, splurge

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

October 2, 2023

Comedian Kountry Wayne Says He ‘Splurges’ $200K A Month In Child Support

Watch out, Nick Cannon! Comedian Kountry Wayne revealed something many people may not have known about him in a recent interview with Sherri Shepherd on The Sherri Shepherd Show. In a discussion, he stated that he has 10 children with five women.

Wayne also disclosed that he pays $200,000 monthly in child support for his children.

During a conversation with the talk show host, she inquired about what Wayne splurges on. Without missing a beat, he stated that it was child support.

“Yeah, I splurge.. more than child support? Because child support would be my biggest splurge,” he responds. “That called splurging? Because that’s every month.”

Shepherd asks, “OK, you splurge on child support? How much is your child support? Can I ask you that?”

“Yeah, my child support, just my family costs me about 200 a month,” he responds.

“200 dollars?” Shepherd asks him.

“200 thousand,” he answered.

“200 thousand?” a shocked Shepherd asks.

Wayne then explains to Shepherd that there is more to the child support as there are other expenses and costs when dealing with the mother of his children. He didn’t specify if it was court-ordered or if that’s just the amount he pays out of his pocket.

“It don’t have to cost me that much. It’s just child support come with baby mama support. Everybody come behind the children with their hands out,” he continues. “So I splurge on some things, cars and all that. I’ve got a million dollars worth of cars but ain’t nothing like that child support, where people with feet walk up on you.”

Earlier this year, in April, Wayne released a self-help biography, “Help Is on the Way: Stay Up and Live Your Truth,” and in September, he released his first Netflix standup comedy special, “A Woman’s Prayer.”

Oprah, weight loss, Oprah, WeightWatchers

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

October 2, 2023

Oprah Noticed Difference In Treatment Shopping As A 200-Pound Person

Oprah Winfrey is addressing the stigmas surrounding weight, recalling how “differently” she was treated when shopping when she weighed more than 200 pounds.

The billionaire media mogul got candid during a recent panel she hosted for Oprah Daily that tackled the obesity and weight crisis that affects 2 billion adults worldwide.

While speaking with obesity specialists Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford and Dr. Melanie Jay, psychologist Dr. Rachel Goldman, and Sima Sistani, the CEO of WeightWatchers, Winfrey shared her personal weight loss journey, one that’s been a topic of public discussion for decades.

“You all know I’ve been on this journey for most of my life. My highest weight was 237 pounds,” she shared. “I don’t know if there is another public person whose weight struggle has been exploited as much as mine over the years.”

Noting all the diets she’s tried over the years, Winfrey admitted they’ve become “a recurring thing because my body always seems to want to go back to a certain weight.”

The OWN creator recalled how differently she was treated when she weighed over 200 pounds.

“This is a world that has shamed people for being overweight forever,” Winfrey said. “And all of us who’ve lived it know that people treat you differently, they just do.”

Winfrey said she dealt with weight stigma the most while shopping.

“It’s that thing where people are like, ‘Let me show you the gloves. Would you like to look at the handbags? Because we know that there’s nothing in here for you,’ ” she shared. “There is a condescension. There is stigma.”

Winfrey went on to share her introduction to Ozempic, an FDA-approved weight loss medication for people with Type 2 Diabetes.

“Shouldn’t we all just be more accepting of whatever body you choose to be in? That should be your choice,” Winfrey said.

“Even when I first started hearing about the weight loss drugs, at the same time I was going through knee surgery, and I felt, ‘I’ve got to do this on my own.’ Because if I take the drug, that’s the easy way out.'”

The Color Purple star questioned if Ozempic was a “miracle” drug for those battling diabetes in an effort to begin the “un-shaming” surrounding weight.

by Daniel Johnson

October 2, 2023

Los Angeles County Begins No Cash Bail Policy, But Not Everyone Is A Fan

Los Angeles County has expanded the zero cash bail system it employed during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Fox News.

Officially titled “Pre-Arraignment Release Protocols,” the policy, which began Oct. 1, eliminates cash bail for crimes, except for the most serious ones. Similar to the system employed during the COVID-19 pandemic, non-violent crimes or crimes that are not deemed serious will not have a monetary amount set as a condition for release.

They will, however, be released on condition of promising to appear before a judge at a trial date when they are charged. The system responds to critics of the cash bail system who argued that it allowed those with money to use it as a get-out-of-jail card for severe crimes.

However, there are critics of the no cash bail system who say that it will allow crime to flourish.

“Residents don’t feel safe,” Supervisor Kathryn Barger told KCAL News. “One only has to turn on the TV each morning and hear what happened the day before, whether it be a smash-and-grab, a carjacking, a burglary, an armed robbery … and people what to know how this is going to impact crime on the street.”

Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney Eric Siddall told Fox News, “Right now bail is not a perfect system, but it really is the only system we have to deal with these types of crimes. This is an invitation to continue to commit more crimes.”

Those fears apparently stem from a misunderstanding of how no cash bail works. The data show a decrease in crime in places where no cash bail has been implemented. (In the case of data from Third Way, a leftist think-tank, crime remains stagnant.) The ACLU also said cash bail does not keep people safer, nor does it reduce violent crime, particularly homicides.

Word Has It Michelle Obama Is Running For President In 2024; Barack Is Tight-Lipped

by Sharelle B. McNair

October 2, 2023

Word Has It Michelle Obama Is Running For President In 2024; Barack Is Tight-Lipped

Rumor has it that former Michelle Obama is going to run for president and her husband is staying silent, The Daily Mail reports.

Paparazzi caught up with former President Barack Obama while leaving dinner at Beverly Hills’ Funke. Obama only offered some inaudible remarks. The rumors started after Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) made some random comments on his podcast, Verdict with Ted Cruz.

“Here’s the scenario that I think is perhaps most likely, and most dangerous,” Cruz said. “In August of 2024, the Democrat kingmakers jettison Joe Biden and parachute in Michelle Obama.”

Former governor of Alaska and GOP vice presidential nominee, Sarah Palin, also added fire to the rumors on social media, according to The Hill.

In response to Republican U.S. Senate candidate James Bradley‘s political conspiracy theory tweet, Palin said, “Don’t be surprised, But I still say it’ll be Michelle O’ #2024Election. Biden’s out.”

Don’t be surprised
But I still say it’ll be Michelle O’ #2024Election
Biden’s out https://t.co/EMXu0s7rkV

— Sarah Palin (@SarahPalinUSA) September 25, 2023

Meanwhile, Michelle Obama has been vacationing with Tom Hanks, his wife, Rita Wilson, and film director Steven Spielberg in Europe. The super celebrities were seen leaving Spielberg’s $250 million superyacht together near Portofino, Italy.

The New York Times best-selling author has said numerous times on record that she has no intention of running for office, including telling Oprah Winfrey that during the Netflix special, The Light We Carry: Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey.

“I mean, I agreed to support my husband,” she said. “He wanted to do it, and he was great at it. But at no point have I ever said, ‘I think I want to run.’ Ever.”

Concerns of Biden’s age continue to grow, and polls show voters see his age has a top issue. If reelected in 2024, Biden will be the oldest sitting U.S. President.

by Stacy Jackson

October 2, 2023

Woman Sues Disney World After Waterslide Resulted In ‘Wedgie’ And Surgery

A woman is suing Disney World for $50,000 after experiencing a “painful wedgie” and “vaginal lacerations” from riding a waterslide at the Typhoon Lagoon theme park.

In 2019, Emma McGuinness got off the Humunga Kowabunga water slide with injuries that were serious enough to require surgery. According to Complex, McGuinness suffered “immediate and severe pain internally” after the ride. The lawsuit, filed Oct. 27 and obtained by Law & Crime, said, “As she [McGuinness] stood up, blood began rushing from between her legs.”

Details revealed that the woman “became airborne, and she was slammed downward against The Slide,” according to Complex. According to its website, the Humunga Kowabunga is the “fastest and steepest” waterslide at the Walt Disney World resort, located near Orlando. It boasts a nearly vertical 214-foot drop (equal to almost five stories).

The woman’s attorney, Alan Wagner, filed the lawsuit on behalf of McGuinness and her husband, Complex reported. Not only is the couple seeking $50,000 in damages, but they are also accusing Disney of negligence. McGuinness and her husband allege the ride “does not warn women of their increased risk of injury.”

The lawsuit also said, “Because of their particular anatomy, the risk of injury as a consequence of water being forced inside a woman’s body is far greater than it is for a man.”

The entertainment conglomerate provides a statement on safety, saying, “You should be in good health and free from heart conditions, back or neck problems, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure.”

However, the only safety provision that specifically addresses women is that “expectant mothers should not ride,” according to Disney’s website.

McGuinness went to the theme park for her 30th birthday, Complex said. The ride is currently open to kids, tweens, teens, and adults, according to Disney World’s website.

High-Performance Coach Launches Sacred Journal Empowering Black Men Against Loneliness, Stress, Anxiety, And Depression

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

October 2, 2023

High-Performance Coach Launches Sacred Journal Empowering Black Men Against Loneliness, Stress, Anxiety, And Depression

*Originally Published By Blacknews.com

Nationwide — In a groundbreaking step toward addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by men, particularly Black men, Bertrand Ngampa is proud to introduce The 1% Man: The Ascension Journal. This pioneering journal is not only a powerful tool for personal growth and accountability, but also a beacon of hope for breaking down barriers to mental well-being and achievement.

The Ascension Journal is not just a journal; it’s a comprehensive roadmap designed to uplift and empower men, with a special focus on Black men who often grapple with societal pressures and expectations. This innovative journal stands as a testament to the commitment to fostering mental resilience and celebrating accomplishments within this often-neglected demographic.

A highlight of The Ascension Journal is its emphasis on accountability. Rooted in the belief that every man deserves the chance to thrive, the journal provides the tools and structure needed to track progress and maintain commitment. It includes powerful features like a daily momentum tracker, cultivating habits that pave the way toward becoming the healthiest and most accomplished version of oneself.

One of the most remarkable aspects of The Ascension Journal is the inclusion of nearly $20,000 worth of valuable bonuses. These bonuses are not merely add-ons but integral components of a holistic approach to men’s well-being. Among these bonuses are two 6-week workout plans inspired by Navy Seal Stew Smith, the acclaimed #1 Tactical Fitness Trainer in the US. These plans provide an actionable path toward physical fitness, aligning perfectly with the journal’s goal of nurturing holistic well-being.

The journal also recognizes the significance of mental well-being and self-love. Included are 100 powerful affirmations tailored to combat the negative influences that often pervade society. As the journal understands the importance of inner dialogue, these affirmations are designed to promote a positive self-image.

Moreover, The Ascension Journal acknowledges the struggle many men face with sleep and stress. Through its meticulously crafted content, the journal provides insights into sleep mastery and relaxation techniques. It includes four professionally recorded meditations to combat anxiety, reduce stress, and foster self-connection.

Nutrition and supplements are cornerstones of health, and the Ascension Journal ensures no stone is left unturned. A curated essentials supplements list guides men on the necessary supplements for daily well-being, coupled with advice on where to acquire them.

But The Ascension Journal isn’t just about individual transformation; it’s also about creating a supportive community. With access to the Free 1% Man Facebook group, men gain a platform to share their achievements, challenges, and journey toward growth. This sense of belonging aims to combat the loneliness epidemic often accompanying modern living.

Ultimately, the Ascension Journal is a beacon of change, aimed at combating the troubling trends of loneliness, depression, and suicide in men. This journal takes a significant stride toward reshaping the narrative of men’s mental health by offering a comprehensive toolkit for self-improvement, mental resilience, and accomplishment.

For more information and to secure a copy of Ascension Journal, visit https://1pmman.com/ascension-journal

About the creator
Bertrand Ngampa, the founder of a high-performance coaching and consulting agency, is a best-selling author, writer, speaker, podcaster, content creator, consultant, and military veteran.

For press inquiries, contact bngampa2@gmail.com

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

October 2, 2023

Black School Teacher From Georgia Surprised With Brand New Home

*Originally Reported By Blacknews.com

Nationwide — Methany Thornton, an African American teacher from Marietta, Georgia, received a big surprise after closing on her new Habitat House as she was granted a fully furnished and decorated house for her and her family.

When they first stepped inside, Thornton and her husband, Kelcey, along with her daughter and two grandsons, couldn’t believe their eyes. The furnished rooms made them feel right at home.

According to the Habitat for Humanity Northwest Metro Atlanta, the iTHINK Community Foundation of iTHINK Financial made the home dedication possible. The credit union, Berkadia, also handed over a $500 check that they could use when they needed some other things for their new place.

Jessica Gill, the CEO of Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta, mentioned that it took a lot of teamwork to make this home dedication happen. She stressed that living near your workplace is important for a strong community.

“It took a lot of partners to bring this accomplishment to fruition today,” Gill told WSBTV. “Living where you work is a key component in building community, and partnerships like this one are fundamental to make local homeownership achievable, as well as thanking the public servants who serve us and our children.”

Thornton isn’t just an ordinary teacher. She’s a Social Emotional Learning Teacher and a Cheer and Lacrosse coach at Marietta Middle School, where she has been working for over 6 years.

Before this wonderful turn of events, her family resided in Cartersville in a townhouse without a yard. Now they’ve moved into a more spacious home and she is just minutes away from her work.

On her special day, many of her students came together to express their support and appreciation for her unwavering dedication. Thornton describes her passion for “paying it forward” as a teacher.

“Thank you for all that you do in the community for people like me,” said Thornton. “You truly are God-sent, and I pray that as you continue to bless others, God will bless you even more.”

by Sharelle B. McNair

October 2, 2023

California Gov. Gavin Newsom Appoints Black Woman To Senate As Promised

The former senior strategist for Vice President Kamala Harris, Laphonza Butler, has been named as the replacement for Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) who died Sept. 29, Politico reports.

California Governor Gavin Newsom is set to make the official announcement on Oct. 2–just three days after Feinstein’s death. Butler will be the third Black women ever to serve in the Senate and the first openly LGBTQ person to represent the Golden State.

Harris is scheduled to swear in Butler on Oct. 4.

Newsom has faced extreme pressure after openly promising to give the seat to a Black woman. Many candidates admitted to not being interested publicly, while others expressed interest in private.

A strong contender was Rep. Barbara Lee, recently ruled out by the governor, although she was highly supported by the Congressional Black Caucus Chair Steven Horsford. The announcement helps Newsom avoid diving into next year’s Senate contest between Democratic rivals Reps. Katie Porter, Adam Schiff, and Lee.

Butler is currently based in Washington, D.C., and is registered to vote in Maryland but will be switching to California promptly.

She was once considered for a job working as Newsom’s first chief of staff and once served as a partner at San Francisco-based consulting firm Bearstar Strategies. According to NBC News, Butler has led EMILY’s List, an organization that works to elect Democratic women, since 2021. After news of the veteran Feinstein’s death, Butler posted a tribute on Twitter, calling her a “titan in the Senate.”

I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Sen. @DianneFeinstein. Not only was she a titan in the Senate, but a legendary figure for women in politics and around the country. Her legacy and achievements will not be forgotten. My prayers are with her family. She will be deeply missed.

— Laphonza Butler (@LaphonzaB) September 29, 2023

Her fellow state colleagues have already begun cheering for Butler. “I look forward to fighting for California with her,” Porter said.

New York Liberty Advance To WNBA Finals Making First Appearance In Over 20 Years

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

October 2, 2023

New York Liberty Advance To WNBA Finals Making First Appearance In Over 20 Years

New York City is finally headed to a basketball championship, but it won’t be with the New York Knicks. It’s the New York Liberty who are taking NY fans to the WNBA championship.

According to ESPN, the Liberty, the only original WNBA franchise that has not won a championship, will get the opportunity to win one after their impressive victory over the Connecticut Sun, 87-84. They won the series three games to one. This is the first time the New York team has advanced to the finals in over 20 years. Their last appearance took place in 2002.

The Sun has SET.

ON TO THE FINALS BABY 🤩 #SEAFOAMSZN | #LIGHTITUPNYL🗽 pic.twitter.com/UA72DJKD66

— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) October 1, 2023

The upcoming championship game, slated for Sunday, Oct. 8, will pit the Liberty against the Las Vegas Aces – the only team with a better record than the Liberty. Las Vegas is the current WNBA champion, trying to hold on to that title for another year.

“I think it’s good. That’s the narrative everyone wanted at the start,” Liberty coach Sandy Brondello said.

“I didn’t particularly like the superteam thing … [but] it’s going to be a great series and it’s a promotion for the WNBA, isn’t it? It’s New York, we haven’t done it for so long, but we’re playing the champions from last year. I think it’s going to be a really competitive series and hopefully, more and more people turn their eyes into the game and we can continue to grow it.”

In 2022, the New York team had a losing record. In fact, the team has had five consecutive losing seasons (2018-22) before this one. It has been a record-breaking season for the Liberty as they compiled a franchise-record 800 winning percentage. New York also finished the game with three of their players scoring at least 20 points. That was the first time this took place in franchise postseason history, and has only happened 13 other times in WNBA postseason history.

Turning the skies seafoam green for one hour tonight in honor of the @NYLiberty moving on to the WNBA finals! 🗽 pic.twitter.com/ATKD53dxPH

— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) October 1, 2023

The two teams will have a best-of-five series:

Game	Date	Matchup	Time	Channel
Game 1	Sunday, October 8	New York at Las Vegas	3 PM ET	ABC
Game 2	Wednesday, October 11	New York at Las Vegas	9 PM ET	ESPN
Game 3	Sunday, October 15	Las Vegas at New York	3 PM ET	ABC
Game 4*	Wednesday, October 18	Las Vegas at New York	8 PM ET	ESPN
Game 5*	Friday, October 20	New York at Las Vegas	9 PM ET	ESPN

*If necessary