Spelman College Makes History Again With 4 Graduating Valedictorians
by Sharelle B. McNair

May 22, 2023

Spelman College Makes History Again With 4 Graduating Valedictorians

Spelman College made history once again over the weekend during its commencement ceremony.

Maya Blasingame, Amaia Calhoun, Sydney DuPree, and Chandler Nutall all held the title of valedictorian as they graduated from the all-women’s college—the fourth time in Spelman history, 11 Alive reports.

The Spelman College website posted the ladies’ impressive biographies and their plans post-graduation. Blasingame graduated with a degree in biology and is heading to medical school in the fall. She’s hoping to serve underrepresented populations and communities. “I feel just really excited and grateful. I think for me, coming in as a biology major, I was like, I’m just trying to make it through it,” Blasingame told 11 Alive.

From Cleveland, Ohio, Calhoun has her eyes set on Princeton University’s Investment Company as an investment analyst. Nutall is heading to New York for a fellowship and attending law school. DuPree will call Atlanta home for a while as she has signed with Atlanta’s Forward Agency as a casting director.

The Spelman College students were greeted with a keynote address from Pulitzer Prize-winning creator of the 1619 Project, Nikole Hannah-Jones. Jones brought some encouraging words after announcing that she committed to no longer giving commencement addresses. “Coming up with a commencement speech is actually a lot of pressure,” Jones said. “But I feel ridiculously grateful that Dr. Gayle thought enough of me to want me to be here with you all and become part of an institution that has meant so much to our people.”

The stars continued to shine at graduation with Golden Globe-winning actress, CEO, and founder of Pattern Beauty, Tracee Ellis Ross. The Girlfriends alum received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree and posted the heartfelt moment on Instagram with the caption, “Congratulations to the Class of 2023! It was really special to be robed with you.”

 

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by Stacy Jackson

May 22, 2023

Jamie Foxx’s Health Scare May Have Impacted Plans For Mike Tyson Biopic

A biopic on Mike Tyson seems to be facing interruptions.

During a recent interview on Patrick Bet-David’s Valuetainment, the former professional boxer discussed the development of his biopic, which faces a casting obstacle since Beat Shazam host Jamie Foxx was hospitalized after suffering a medical complication.

Bet-David asked Tyson for an update regarding Foxx possibly playing him in the movie.

“Well, it was a possibility. I don’t know what’s going to happen now. But, you know, it’s a strong possibility,” Tyson said. “Because, you know, Jamie’s closer to my age, so in order to do him, they were going to do what they did with [the movie] Benjamin Button. They were going to make him look younger.”

Earlier this month, Foxx took to Instagram to show his appreciation for everyone supporting him during this challenging time. Celebrity followers, including former castmate Garcelle Beauvais, singer Tamar Braxton, television personality Ellen DeGeneres, and actress Halle Berry, reciprocated the love and left heartfelt comments under Foxx’s post.

 

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“Mike has always been interested in Jamie playing him in his biopic, but nothing is solidified at this time,” a representative for Tyson told Fox News.

As of last week, Foxx had been recovering at a rehabilitation center in Chicago. The actor has been receiving treatment at the center since he left an Atlanta hospital.

Photos taken at the Chicago-based rehab center showed his two daughters, Corinne Foxx and Anelise Bishop, and Anelise’s mother visiting the “Blame It” singer.

Fox News reported that Wild’ n Out host Nick Cannon would be stepping in for Foxx as new episodes of FOX’s Beat Shazam begin on Tuesday. Kelly Osbourne will choose the hits in the DJ booth in the upcoming episodes. Corrine will continue plans for the new show We Are Family, set to air in 2024.

“We are thrilled to be developing ‘We Are Family’ with Jeff Apploff and our friends at FOX Entertainment after so much success with six seasons of ‘Beat Shazam,’” Jamie and Corinne said in a statement to Fox News. “We hope this show brings as much fun to audiences at home as we’ve had creating it when it premieres next year.”

Our continued thoughts are prayers are with Jamie Foxx during his recovery.

RELATED CONTENT: Nick Cannon to Guest Host for Jamie Foxx in Upcoming Season of ‘Beat Shazam’

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Uses ‘Survivor’ To Teach Life Lessons During Commencement Speech
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 22, 2023

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Uses ‘Survivor’ To Teach Life Lessons During Commencement Speech

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is such a “Survivor superfan” that she modeled part of her recent commencement speech around the competition reality show.

Brown spoke to the graduating class of American University’s law school and shared life lessons from watching 43 of “Survivor’s” 44 seasons, the Associated Press reports.

“I watch it with my husband and my daughters even now, which I will admit it’s not easy to do with the demands of my day job,” she shared.

“But you have to set priorities, people. And that’s exactly the first lesson that I have for you today.”

The Supreme Court’s first Black female justice referenced the long-running reality show because while she admitted it’s “fun” to watch,” there are “broader lessons that are helpful for becoming a good lawyer.” Among the lessons Jackson shared included the reminder to “make the most of the resources that you have.”

Recalling her own time as a public defender working against prosecutors who had more resources than her, she stressed the importance of “moving forward even when the deck is stacked against you,” she said.

Jackson, who is coming to the end of her first term on the court, likened the lesson to one Survivor contestant with a prosthetic leg who prevailed during a difficult challenge involving a balance beam.

“My advice to you is to do your best to shut out distractions, use your time wisely, and figure out how to make the most of what you have,” Jackson said.

Elsewhere, the newest Supreme Court justice shared her “incredible journey” from graduating law school, and serving others as a public defender, before serving in one of the highest honors.

“I still wake up some mornings confused as to whether this is really happening to me or am I living in a dream,” Jackson said.

Her speech came on the heels of justices hearing arguments on issues they have until June to issue opinions on, including affirmative action, voting rights, religious liberty, and President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan.

RELATED CONTENT: Miami-Dade County Names Street After Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson

by Iman Milner

May 22, 2023

The Spinners Journey Back To Motown To Donate Performance Suits To Museum

There are very few genres of music that don’t draw inspiration from the legendary Motown sound. So, it’s no wonder that people travel from all over the world to set foot in the Detroit home—turned museum—that acted as the incubator for some of the most talented artists to ever live, including the iconic soul group, the Spinners.

The group’s founding members returned to their roots on Sunday with a walkthrough of the historic Studio A, where hits like The Temptation’s “My Girl” were recorded, and a sizable 375-piece donation of some of their most memorable performance outfits. Though the Spinners would leave Motown for a successful stint at Atlantic Records, they didn’t leave Detroit without a massive hit. Their single, “It’s A Shame,” rose to No. 14 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart in 1970. Henry Fambrough, who was a member during the group’s time at Motown, felt a sense of nostalgia walking into the museum, according to WZZM13. “I used to dream about this place,” he said.

For Motown, the dedication to preserving the history of the sound that defined an era is paramount.

“It’s of utmost importance for us to continue to grow our expansive collection and curate artifacts from Motown alumni who shaped the Motown legacy,” said Motown Museum Chair and Chief Executive Robin Terry. “We’re incredibly honored and proud to welcome the iconic Spinners home to Detroit to celebrate their rich history and accept these uniforms,” Terry added. “Their legacy will live on at Motown Museum and be displayed for fans from all over the world to see.”

Though the Spinners enjoyed global success with hits like “Could It Be I’m Falling In Love” and “Then Came You,” Detroit has always remained home for the group’s members, according to the Detroit Free Press. Along with their museum honors, the group also took to the stage at the annual Founder’s Day celebration put on by Motown. They performed a medley of hits and ended with “It’s A Shame,” which featured a surprise appearance by the group’s original lead vocalist, G.C. Cameron.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

May 22, 2023

After 19 Seasons, Carmelo Anthony Officially Announces His Retirement From the NBA

In a short video posted on his social media account, NBA veteran Carmelo Anthony officially retired from the sport he has played for over 20 years.

In the video clip, the 10-time NBA All-Star, entrepreneur, and philanthropist spoke about his legacy and, in the video, stated he is passing the torch to his son, Kiyan, who was recently offered a basketball scholarship to Anthony’s alma mater, Syracuse University.

 

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Currently, Anthony, a potential first-time ballot NBA Hall of Famer, is a top 10 scorer who is listed at No. 9. Although he was born in New York City, in the Red Hook housing projects of Brooklyn, his family moved to the Murphy Homes in Baltimore when he was a child. He attended Syracuse University, where he led the team to its first and only NCAA men’s basketball tournament championship.

After winning the championship, the talented player was drafted at No. 3 in the first round by the Denver Nuggets in the 2003 NBA Draft. Anthony also played for the New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, and the Los Angeles Lakers during his legendary career.

In addition to his undeniable NBA success, Anthony is the most decorated player in United States Olympic men’s basketball history. While playing in four separate Olympics, he became the United States Olympic men’s all-time leader in games played and rebounds while ranking second in points.

The former Knicks player scored 28,289 regular season points and averaged 22.5 points per game while pulling down 6.2 rebounds, which speaks to his consistent excellence. In the NBA playoffs, his scoring average was slightly better during 13 postseason appearances, averaging 23.1 points per game.

As Anthony’s career ends, his many business ventures will keep him busy as he watches his son try to duplicate and/or surpass his success in the basketball world.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

May 22, 2023

Ja Morant’s Sister, Niya Commits To Mississippi Valley State University To Play Basketball

With all the controversy surrounding Memphis Grizzlies basketball player Ja Morant, and his off-the-court issues, the family has some good news to help spread.

Last week, Niya Morant, the younger sister of Ja, posted to her Instagram account that she has committed to play basketball for Mississippi Valley State, an HBCU. She posted several photos of herself in an MVU uniform and captioned the post, “lets go devilettes 💚❤️ #committed #mvsu #ladydevilettes“

According to HBCU Game Day, the Division I school is located in Itta Bena, Mississippi, competing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Its program needs a boost as Mississippi Valley State’s record for the 2022–2023 season was a dismal 2-27. It had one victory against a Division I program when it beat New Orleans and a winless record in the SWAC last season, going 0-18 in division play.

Niya is continuing the tradition of playing basketball as her father, Tee Morant, played his collegiate career at Claflin University in the 1990s. Her brother, Ja, went to Murray State before being drafted into the NBA in 2019.

HBCU Sports reported that Niya accepted the first offer she received. She also received an offer from Morgan State University, also an HBCU. A 5′ 7″ guard, she played her senior year at Houston High School in Germantown, Tennessee, this past season and averaged 11.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game while helping the Lady Mustangs achieve a winning record of 21-11.

Meanwhile, her older brother, Grizzlies player Ja Morant was viewed on Instagram Live showing a gun while in the passenger seat of his friend’s vehicle. Just two months earlier, he had been suspended by the league for a similar action at a Denver strip club after the Grizzlies played the Nuggets that night.

This is the third reported incident involving a firearm with Morant that the NBA is investigating, and there is no word on the timetable the league has to mete out an appropriate punishment. With the latest controversy surrounding Ja Morant, we’re happy to see his sister’s achievements are not overshadowed. 

United Way’s ‘Thriving African-American Small Business Initiative’ Help Entrepreneurs Multiply Their Savings
by Atiya Jordan

May 22, 2023

United Way’s ‘Thriving African-American Small Business Initiative’ Help Entrepreneurs Multiply Their Savings

On May 10, the United Way of Southeast Louisiana (UWSELA) proudly announced the inaugural class of 15 Black-owned businesses to participate in a new initiative to help entrepreneurs multiply their savings.

The nonprofit organization has offered a plethora of grant opportunities and match funds for nearly two decades. Similarly, the newly launched Thriving African-American Small Business Initiative is among many efforts to dismantle the racial wealth gap and the countless barriers that small Black-owned businesses have historically faced.

From restaurateurs to photographers, the participating business owners have been vetted across all industries to take part in an incentive to thrive. They are required to save $334 monthly over 6 months until they reach a $2,000 goal, as indicated on the UWSELA website. The ultimate savings is then matched 5:1 with $10,000 in grant money for a combined total of $12,000 for their business.

Additionally, participants will gain access to “formal and informal opportunities to learn how to manage and budget money, improve their earning capability and invest in themselves and their communities,” according to a press release.

 

According to the Corporate Finance Institute, 10% margins are average for small businesses, and 20% margins are high. However, there is no denying that Black-owned businesses face unique challenges that have induced a lack of access to capital and lower business credit scores. In fact, 76% of Black entrepreneurs rely on personal and family savings for financing, as reported by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

On the other hand, Michael Williamson, UWSELA president and CEO, told a local New Orleans outlet that he and his team are well aware that small businesses drive the economy by providing both “jobs and positive economic activity to communities.”

“That’s one reason why we’re making this investment in these individuals working to build their brands and income,” he continued, per Biz New Orleans. “But, more importantly, our intentional investment in small, Black-owned businesses ensures communities of color don’t miss out on economic opportunities and growth.”

The selected group represents the Jefferson, Orleans, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Washington parishes.

Congratulations to Danny’s Creole Kitchen, Domango Training, Paparazzi Cam Photo Booth & Photography, Christiel Holistic Healing Center, Beyond the Stage, Touches by Tircuit, Treme Market Branch, Socialite Events, Socialstep Marketing and Consulting, Afri Modiste, Braids By Denise, Therapist With Talent Massage, New Day Properties, Popcorn Island, and Perfectly Vinyl Prints D&B!

Families Mourn The Death of Two NYC Boys After Their Bodies Were Found in Separate Rivers
by Sharelle B. McNair

May 22, 2023

Families Mourn The Death of Two NYC Boys After Their Bodies Were Found in Separate Rivers

New York City police are investigating after two friends were found dead in separate Manhattan rivers.

Alfa Barrie, 11, and Garrett Warren, 13, were reported missing last week after being seen together in Harlem, CNN reports. Surveillance video shows the pair leaving a home together and walking past a large group of people. Their bodies were found days apart but were more than two miles away from one another in two different rivers. Warren was found on May 18 in the Harlem River, and police found Barrie’s body in the Hudson River near the Upper West Side two days later.

An Ana’s Fish Market employee told NBC News he saw the boys at the store purchasing a few items that night. Detectives working the case hope to speak to some people standing in the crowd the boys walked past. They’re also seeking to talk to anyone who knew the boys personally. “We need to speak that every single person that was with them,” NYPD Deputy Chief Brian Gill said. “We want to talk to their classmates.”

So far, there’s been no evidence of foul play, but the city’s Office of Chief Medical Examiner announced Warren’s cause of death was drowning. It’s still to be determined if it was accidental.

Family members of the two claim they were neighborhood buddies, but their families didn’t know each other too well, according to NBC. A family friend of Barrie says the 11-year-old was “charming.” “Young kid who was very charming, loving, very close to mommy, always helping mommy doing the work at the house, grocery or doing the laundry or cooking and cleaning the house,” Adhmadou Diallo told ABC 7. “Every time he gives his mommy a goodbye kiss when going to school — and that’s what happened on Friday when he left.”

Democracy Prep Public School, where Barrie was a student, released a statement on the tragic discovery. “He will be sorely missed by his teachers and fellow students. We also stand in solidarity with the family of Alfa’s friend, Garrett Warren,” the statement read. “While he was not a student, we understand that this is a difficult time for his community as well and share our prayers with them.”

Brittney Griner Makes Emotional Return To Phoenix Mercury In WNBA Opener
by Iman Milner

May 22, 2023

Brittney Griner Makes Emotional Return To Phoenix Mercury In WNBA Opener

It has been five months since Phoenix Mercury player Brittney Griner was released after spending 300 days in Russian custody. Over the weekend, she made her first appearance on the court for the WNBA’s opening night.

Though the Mercury were defeated on their home court by the visiting Chicago Sky, Griner’s return to play was the story of the game. Introduced to thunderous applause from over 14,000 fans piled into the Footprint Center, the 32-year-old, six-time WNBA All-star scored 27 points on 9-13 shooting, adding to 10 rebounds, giving her a double-double, according to USA Today.

Griner said in a press conference after the game that her first time on the court since 2021 was moving.

“It was emotional. Just hearing and seeing some of the clips. They set me up with that song,” teased Griner, who said she started to cry during the introduction. “Part of the process of healing is letting it out. I got choked up a little bit and I tried to hide it.” The 6-foot-9 center also had the support of Mercury head coach Vanessa Nygaard. “It’s a day of joy,” she said. “We brought back this woman — this Black, gay woman — from a Russian jail, and America did that because they valued her.”

The elation around her return is no doubt related to the fear many fans and players had that her detainment would sever her relationship with the sport; however, Griner has expressed that her only plan, for now, is to return to the level of play she had before her 10-month punishment. “By All-Star, I hope to be exactly where I want to be,” she said after Sunday’s game. “You know, not having to limit my minutes, being able to just play — I’m going to regret this, but — being able to play 40 minutes. Just getting back to what I was before.”

Happy to see Brittney Griner back where she belongs and doing what she loves.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 22, 2023

Public Reacts To Sen. Tim Scott’s Bid For President; It’s The ‘Melanin’ For Some

Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) is vying for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination against former president Donald Trump.

On Monday, Scott took to Charleston Southern University in his home state of South Carolina to formally announce his 2024 presidential campaign, The Guardian reports. Scott is one of the many Republican candidates looking to compete against Trump and become the Republican nominee aginst President Joe Biden.

The junior U.S. Senator wasted no time calling out Biden and accusing his administration of attacking the “patriotism” that aided in his success in politics.

“Under President Biden, our nation is retreating away from patriotism and faith,” Scott told the cheering crowd.

“I am living proof that America is the land of opportunity, not a land of oppression,” he continued.

“Joe Biden and the radical left are attacking every rung of the ladder that helped me climb, and that is why I am announcing today that I am running for President of the United States of America!”

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Scott credited his current role as the only Black Republican serving in the Senate as an example of the perspective he’ll bring to the White House. His mother, Francis Scott, eventually joined her son on stage as she spoke of their rise out of poverty.

“We live in the land where it is absolutely possible for a kid raised in poverty in a single-parent household in a small apartment to one day serve in the People’s House and maybe even the White House,” Scott said. “This is the greatest nation on God’s green Earth.”

Scott’s announcement came as Republicans continue to look at Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as the alternative to another Trump campaign, CNBC reports. Another South Carolina Republican, former governor, and U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, is also running for president.

In the wake of launching his campaign, many are expressing their skepticism for a Black man becoming the Republican nominee next year.

“And he will not be the next POTUS,” one Twitter user wrote.

“Odd decision since white supremacy is the only plan in the R party platform,” added someone else.

At least Congressman Byron Donalds is here for Tim Scott making a presidential run.

Anna Navarro from The View also supported Scott’s announcement, claiming his African American identity was a good look, since the Republican Party lacks Black representation, the Washington Examiner reported.

“I’m also happy he’s in the race because I think there is such a dearth of melanin in the Republican Party and also of optimism and unity,” the daytime TV host said.

RELATED CONTENT: Tim Scott, Lone Black Republican in U.S. Senate, to Run for President

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