by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

January 29, 2026

Ex-Diddy Sex Worker Sues Netflix, 50 Cent, Claims ‘The Reckoning’ Doc Distorted Testimony

The former sex worker claims the documentary distorted his testimony regarding his "freak offs" with Combs and Cassie Ventura.

A former sex worker who worked for Sean “Diddy” Combs is suing Netflix and 50 Cent for the streamer’s “The Reckoning” documentary.

In the defamation lawsuit filed Jan. 28, the sex worker says the documentary “distorted” his testimony regarding Cassie Ventura’s role in the sex trafficking allegations. The plaintiff, Clayton Howard, stated that the Netflix documentary portrayed a different picture than what he initially described.

According to The Wrap, Howard’s filing alleges that “The Reckoning” offered a manipulated version of his account. Instead of displaying his testimony that paints Ventura as an accomplice in Diddy’s alleged sex trafficking ring, the docuseries makes his testimony depict Ventura as a victim.

“Defendants deliberately edited, distorted and misrepresented plaintiff’s account to portray Cassie Ventura — plaintiff’s primary trafficker — as a victim, while omitting and suppressing plaintiff’s testimony that he was sex trafficked by Ventura, thereby inflicting severe harm upon plaintiff’s reputation,” detailed the lawsuit.

Howard allegedly engaged in numerous “freak-offs” with Ventura and Combs. He joined the documentary to describe his experience with the disgraced media mogul and his former girlfriend, stating that Netflix promised to accurately portray his account.

Now, Howard is seeking $20 million, claiming that the streamer allegedly twisted his testimony. He says the false representation could land him in legal trouble, especially as he appeared as a witness for Combs’ federal indictment.

The lawsuit continued, “Plaintiffs’ role as a cooperating witness in the federal criminal prosecution of Sean Combs places him in a uniquely vulnerable position. Any distortion or misrepresentation of his testimony undermines not only his personal credibility but also the integrity of federal prosecutorial efforts to hold sex traffickers accountable.”

The four-part documentary, produced by Diddy’s long-time public adversary, 50 Cent, delved into the sex trafficking and racketeering allegations against the Bad Boys Records founder. Released in early December, the docuseries garnered millions of views for its depiction of Combs’ legal downfall, resulting in a lawsuit from Combs himself. The incarcerated star filed a failed cease-and-desist before the documentary’s release.

Howard also believes that 50 Cent’s personal issues with Combs are tied to the manipulation of his testimony. His lawsuit called the move “calculated” as 50 Cent tries to further sully Combs’ public reputation.

by Kandiss Edwards

January 29, 2026

Ben Crump And Barack Obama Are The Most Mentioned Black Newsmakers In The 21st Century

To top the newsmaker list, over 200 Black-owned national newspapers were mined to determine who received the most coverage.

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) has compiled a list of the Top Black Newsmakers of the 21st Century. Leading the way is civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump at no. 1 and President Barack Obama at no. 2.

To top the newsmaker list, over 200 Black-owned national newspapers were mined to determine who received the most coverage.

According to the NNPA analysis, Crump has appeared in more major national headlines than any other Black American over the past quarter-century. After the first Black president received his mention, different cultural, entertainment, sports, music, and political figures followed. Serena Williams, LeBron James, Vice President Kamala Harris, Simone Biles, Kanye West, Beyoncé, Michelle Obama, and Oprah Winfrey are among the top ten Black newsmakers of the century.

The recognition is rooted in his work on high-profile civil rights and justice cases. He said the attention his name receives is “not about me. It is about forcing America to confront what it too often wants to ignore.” His work first gained national consistent coverage when he represented the family of Trayvon Martin, the unarmed 17-year-old killed in Florida in 2012.

Crump and Obama are the Top Black News Makers of the 21st Century
NNPA NEWSWIRE — Since the Trayvon Martin case propelled him into the national consciousness, civil rights attorney Ben Crump has accumulated a distinction unmatched by any other Black American in th …… pic.twitter.com/dmaD3FBMAu
— Black Press USA (@BlackPressUSA) January 26, 2026

The amount of coverage by Crump is sobering, as his name is mainly attached to violent death, at the hands of authorities or racists. Constant recognition signals the continual need to fight against injustice. Crump has represented families in some of the most consequential racial justice cases of the 21st century, including those of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. Crump said mentions of his name are humbling and redirects the public’s attention to the victims he seeks to avenge.

“This recognition belongs to the families who trusted me with their pain and pursuits of justice, the communities who refused to stay silent, and the Black Press that has always told our stories with honesty and courage,” said Crump. “Any attention this work receives is a reflection of how our nation is still being called upon to live up to its ideals.

Morris Brown College,Night Watch, Freedom's Eve, Morris Brown AME Church

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

January 29, 2026

Morris Brown College Secures $810K In Funding From Government Grant, AME Church, and Rapper T.I.

Morris Brown College secured $810,000 in funding from a government grant, the Sixth District of the AME Church, and rapper T.I.

The state of Georgia is backing Morris Brown College with more than $800,000 in funding to preserve the century-old HBCU’s legacy in Atlanta.

On Jan. 28, the school announced it received $810,000 in financial support, with $700,000 coming from a grant sponsored by U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams (GA-05) through the FY2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill, signed into law on Jan. 23, 2026, 11 Alive reported. The HBCU also received $60,000 from the Sixth District of the AME Church, coinciding with its 145th anniversary, and a $50,000 donation from Atlanta rapper and producer T.I. to support endowment scholarships.

“At a time that Morris Brown College is witnessing great growth, support that helps to enhance our campus security will truly make a difference as we prioritize the safety of our students, faculty and staff,” said Morris Brown College President Dr. Kevin James. “As Morris Brown continues its resurgence, we are most appreciative of philanthropic support and will continue to be good ground for people to pour into.”

The grant will help Morris Brown develop coordinated emergency response plans, enhance safety awareness through media outreach, upgrade communications and public safety technology, conduct risk assessments, and train and hire additional safety personnel. The funding comes after Morris Brown, along with nearby HBCUs like Spelman, Morehouse, and Clark Atlanta, faced threats last year. Just last week, the college received a violent, racist threat sent to students via email.

“This $700,000 for Morris Brown College reflects a simple truth: Our students deserve to feel safe where they learn,” said Rep. Williams. “As our HBCUs continue to face increasing threats, these federal funds will support critical safety infrastructure so that students, faculty, and staff can learn and work in an environment that is secure, responsive, and prepared. I’m proud to stand with Morris Brown College and invest in the resilience and future of a campus that means so much to Georgia’s Fighting Fifth.”

by Kandiss Edwards

January 29, 2026

Atlanta Schools Back ‘Student Voice’ While Threatening Discipline Regarding ICE Protests

Official assert leaving school grounds is a violation of policy and will lead to disciplinary action.

Metro Atlanta school districts are discouraging students from attending planned walkouts protesting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

The Cobb County School District issued a statement supporting students’ rights to state their views. However, the district asserts that students are expected to remain in class, Channel 2 reported.

While university and high school students participate in the “Free America Walkout” in multiple districts, officials state that leaving school grounds violates school policy and will result in disciplinary action. Similarly, disrupting the classroom through protests can have consequences. Potential actions against students range from suspensions and in-school detentions to the loss of privileges, such as participation in clubs and extracurricular activities.

Other counties have issued similar warnings, including DeKalb County Schools. DeKalb County Schools stressed the need for students to use their voices to be heard without interrupting the instructional day. Officials emphasized that rule enforcement is tied to maintaining a safe and productive educational environment.

On Jan. 20, students in Gwinnett County Schools held a planned walkout. The county has a large Hispanic student population at 23%. As a result, many students are facing a personal battle. They are both concerned about the state of the country and the lives of family and friends. As mass deportations continue, many families of color are becoming increasingly concerned about their futures.

“I’m here fighting for not only my rights, but the rights of my family and the rights of my friends,” Rafael Cabarcas said to WSBTV.

Other students who spoke with Channel 2 Action News said they were not certain what punishments they might face. However, students indicated a willingness to accept any consequences if they believe the walkouts or other protests are justified. One student, Ayla Easterling, told WSBTV that consequences were a minor consideration.

“I’ll take whatever happens because in the grand scheme of things, that’s nothing for what’s going on,” she said.

Shirley Raines, death, dead, Ms. Shirley

by Jameelah Mullen

January 29, 2026

Shirley Raines, Known For Her Work With Skid Row’s Homeless Community, Has Died

The Compton native and dedicated advocate began feeding the homeless through her church in 2017 and later started her own nonprofit organization.

Shirley Raines, also known as “Ms. Shirley,” a TikTok star and the founder and CEO of Beauty 2 The Streetz, has died at age 57.

Beauty 2 The Streetz is a nonprofit organization that provides beauty services to unhoused people on Los Angeles’ Skid Row. The activist founded the nonprofit in 2019 and expanded its services to other homeless communities in California and Nevada.

The organization announced the philanthropist’s death on Instagram Jan 28.

“Ms. Shirley dedicated her life to serving others and made an immeasurable impact on homeless communities throughout Los Angeles and Nevada. Through her tireless advocacy, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment, she used her powerful media platform to amplify the voices of those in need and to bring dignity, resources, and hope to some of the most underserved populations,” the statement read.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shirley Raines (@beauty2thestreetz)

“This loss is devastating to the entire Beauty 2 The Streetz team, the communities we serve, and the countless individuals whose lives were forever changed by Ms. Shirley’s love, generosity, and selfless service. Her legacy will continue through the work she started and the hearts she touched.

The organization also asked its supporters to pray for Ms. Shirley’s family and community.

Earlier this week, Raines posted a video on social media where she handed out bagged lunches to people. She greeted them by calling “King” or “Queen,” showing her commitment to treating the people she helps with respect.

She captioned the post with a bible verse.

“Proverbs 16:24 Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shirley Raines (@beauty2thestreetz)

Ms. Shirley’s twin sister, Sheila, told TMZ that authorities found the philanthropist unresponsive in her Nevada home. According to Sheila, her sister was in good health and not taking any medications. They are waiting for autopsy results to determine the cause of death.

In 2025, Raines received the Outstanding Social Media Personality award at the 56th NAACP Image Awards. That same year, she made the TIME 100 creators list. CNN honored the activist as its Hero of the Year in 2021.

Atlanta Police Hunts For Man Accused of Sexually Assaulting, Butchering Two Dogs

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

January 29, 2026

Atlanta Police Hunts For Man Accused of Sexually Assaulting, Butchering Two Dogs

The disturbing incident took place July 22, 2025

Police officers in Atlanta are searching for a man accused of sexually assaulting and then killing two dogs. The alleged incident took place in July 2025.

The Fulton County Police Department has used social media to request help identifying or locating the suspect whose image was captured on surveillance video. Officials have stated that the alleged incident took place on July 22, 2025, at 2:30 p.m.

The Black man was seen walking a tan male mixed-breed dog and a dark brindle-and-white mixed-breed dog that day. The alleged crime location was the Atlantic Station parking deck, and the suspect allegedly sexually assaulted both canines and then killed them. He is then seen walking away from the alleged act.

Police officers have stated that he may be between 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 9 inches tall, has tattoos on both arms, and is sporting a grey goatee. He was wearing a white T-shirt, blue jeans, white sneakers, and was carrying a black backpack. A picture of the suspect is included in the Facebook post.

Police are asking anyone who knows the suspect or the dogs, or who has information about the alleged crime, to contact Captain N. Dwyer at 470-312-3090 or at nicole.dwyer@fultoncountyga.gov.

According to Justia, the 2024 Code of Georgia statute refers to a crime of bestiality (police officials did not identify what the suspect would be charged with when captured) under section 16-6-6:

Title 16 – CRIMES AND OFFENSES (§§ 16-1-1 — 16-17-10)
Chapter 6 – SEXUAL OFFENSES (§§ 16-6-1 — 16-6-25)
Section 16-6-6 – Bestiality

(a) A person commits the offense of bestiality when he performs or submits to any sexual act with an animal involving the sex organs of the one and the mouth, anus, penis, or vagina of the other.
(b) A person convicted of the offense of bestiality shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than five years.

If the suspect is charged with bestiality, he will be facing a sentence of one to five years in prison.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

January 29, 2026

Frank Pitts, HBCU Football Legend Who Played in First Super Bowl, Has Died

He played in the first Super Bowl in 1967

Former football player Frank Pitts, who played in the first Super Bowl (then known as the AFL-NFL World Championship Game) in 1967, has died at the age of 82.

Pitts, who played his collegiate football career at Southern University and was inducted into the school’s Sports Hall of Fame, died Jan. 16. No cause of death has been released. The school acknowledged his death in a Facebook post several days after he died.

His funeral service was held Jan. 23 at Greater King David Baptist Church in Louisiana.

According to HBCU Connect, the wide receiver was born in South Carolina but grew up in Atlanta. He attended Southern University, where he excelled, leading to his being drafted into both the AFL (American Football League) and the NFL (National Football League). Before the two leagues merged to form the NFL, they were separate leagues, with their respective champions competing in the AFL-NFL World Championship Game.

Pitts was selected in the 16th round in the NFL Draft, while he was selected in the fourth round in the AFL Draft.

The Kansas City Chiefs (AFL) selected Pitts in 1965. When the leagues competed against each other, he was among the first players to participate in the first AFL-NFL World Championship Game (later known as the Super Bowl). Although the Chiefs lost to the Green Bay Packers, 35-10, he went on to win a Super Bowl trophy when the Chiefs defeated the Minnesota Vikings 23–7 in Super Bowl IV in 1969. He helped the Chiefs win the AFL Championship in 1966.

During his football career, he also played for the Cleveland Browns and the Oakland Raiders before retiring in 1974.

His grandson, Brandon Bolden, is also a former NFL player who won two Super Bowls while playing with the New England Patriots (2014 and 2017).

Pitts leaves behind his wife, three children, Marva Bolden, Maurice Pitts, and Monika Pitts; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

by Ahsan Washington

January 29, 2026

Personal Trainers Who Focus On Elder Fitness

These Black personal trainers are transforming active aging

People are living longer—and growing older. In fact, between 2010 and 2020, the nation experienced a growth spurt in the older population, the fastest since 1880-1890. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one in six people is age 65 or above. Many growing geriatric communities remain focused on wellness, creating an unprecedented need for fitness professionals specializing in older adult fitness.

These Black personal trainers are transforming active aging. Their compassionate approach delivers measurable results in mobility and balance training, strength development, and overall wellness.

Check out five rockstars with knowledge and expertise in elder-focused fitness training.

DaShaun “The Guru of Abs” Johnson

The “Guru of Abs” DaShaun Johnson created Senior Body Sculpting to support adults over 55 in enhancing their strength, balance, mobility, and wellness through low-impact exercise. Johnson believes that fitness transforms after people retire. The Guru of Abs leads in-person and virtual classes that focus on functional strength and daily movement for older adults. Johnson’s Atlanta, Georgia- based program conducts weekly sessions at community hubs and streams them online.

Quincy France Sr.

Quincy France Sr. brings 15 years of experience to his work with older adults, including LGBTQIA+ seniors, by integrating mobility training with yoga and mindful movement. Through chair yoga, mobility exercises, and support-based movement, France helps seniors maintain their mobility, build confidence, and stay connected. France operates from New York City to deliver inclusive fitness programs for older and marginalized seniors through his work in community centers and wellness programs for aging adults.

Javeno McLean

Javeno McLean, who founded J7 Health Centre in the U.K., demonstrates how customized training programs enhance the well-being of elderly adults. The personalized training programs delivered by McLean enable people with mobility restrictions to restore their strength and independence. For more than 20 years, McLean has empowered disabled and elderly community members by creating fitness opportunities for individuals excluded from conventional gym environments.

Wendy Ida

Wendy Ida, a veteran fitness trainer and wellness advocate, has empowered middle-aged and older adults to take control of their health through functional training and lifestyle change. Ida combines fitness training with motivational coaching in her work as a trainer, author, and speaker to help people achieve longevity and resilience. She lives in Los Angeles but travels internationally to speak and facilitate workshops. Throughout her decades-long career, Ida has proven that aging fit is possible by adopting a lifestyle based on education and empowerment.

Jean Titus (“Ripped Grandpa”)

Jean Titus uses his disciplined fitness lifestyle to inspire older adults and Black fitness enthusiasts by breaking age stereotypes through consistent strength training. Through his strong online presence, Titus promotes strength training, nutrition education, and disciplined fitness. Through his public fitness journey, Titus, a U.S.-based fitness coach and content creator, breaks ageist stereotypes to motivate older Black adults toward strength, mobility, and health.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

January 29, 2026

In Deposition, Bill Cosby Confirms Using Quaaludes To Drug Women

A newly unveiled deposition reveals Bill Cosby's shocking admission to using Quaaludes to drug women.

A newly disclosed deposition exposes Bill Cosby’s bombshell admission that he used quaaludes to drug women with the intent to have sex with them.

The disgraced comedian made the admission under oath during a deposition in a lawsuit filed by rape accuser Donna Motsinger, TMZ reported. Cosby testified that he repeatedly refilled a quaaludes prescription he obtained from a gynecologist at a poker game, saying he intended to give the pills to women in hopes of having sex with them.

The Cosby Show star testified that he refilled the prescription at least seven times and never used the drug himself. Cosby identified obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Leroy Amar as the physician who prescribed him quaaludes during a poker game at his Los Angeles home prior to 1972. Amar later had his medical license revoked in California in 1979.

The disclosure emerged during a deposition Cosby was forced to give in a lawsuit filed by Donna Motsinger, who accuses him of drugging and raping her in 1972 while she was working as a server at the famed Trident restaurant in Sausalito, California. According to the suit, Motsinger says Cosby gave her a pill she believed was aspirin; after taking it, she began drifting in and out of consciousness and later awoke in her home wearing only her underwear.

The lawsuit describes Cosby’s quaaludes as round, white pills. While Cosby is attempting to have Motsinger’s case dismissed, she is pushing back and continuing to fight the claims in court.

Cosby’s admission in Motsinger’s lawsuit comes after decades of accusations that he drugged and sexually assaulted women, with claims dating back to the 1950s and ’60s. The most prominent case involved Andrea Constand, a former Temple University employee, whose 2004 assault led to Cosby’s conviction and nearly three years in prison.

Although dozens of women made similar allegations, it was the only criminal case to go to trial. Cosby’s conviction was later overturned on a legal technicality tied to a prior non-prosecution agreement, not a finding on the facts.

Nicki Minaj, Trump, gold card,citizenship

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

January 29, 2026

Nicki Minaj Posts Pic Of ‘Trump Gold Card’ As President Helps Her Expedite U.S. Residency

Minaj has been vocal about not being a legal U.S. resident.

Nicki Minaj is fully riding the MAGA wave and now has a certain gold card to prove it.

After pledging her unwavering support to President Donald Trump, Minaj was granted a “Trump Gold Card” to help her remain in the United States. The “Beez In The Trap” rapper showed off her new ticket to legal status on social media, highlighting that her Trump loyalty comes with apparent perks.

Welp… pic.twitter.com/c5v8ztVVLR
— Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) January 28, 2026

According to Newsweek, the “Trump Gold Card” offers an expedited path to U.S. residency. The coveted card is typically tied to those who make significant financial contributions in their quest for citizenship. Also, in true President fashion, it is etched with his face.

Minaj has publicly confirmed her iffy legal status in America, stating that she is not a U.S. citizen despite spending most of her life there. While born in Trinidad, she moved to Queens, New York, at age 5 to live with her parents, both of whom had permanent residency.

The 43-year-old femcee also confirmed the card’s intent in a subsequent post on X. She added a meme of the Chucky doll giving the middle finger to further emphasize her lack of care about the hate.

Residency? Residency? The cope is coping. 😅
Finalizing that citizenship paperwork as we speak as per MY wonderful, gracious, charming President.
Thanks to the petition. 📋
I wouldn’t have done it without you.
Oh CitizenNIKA you are thee moment

Gold Trump card free of charge pic.twitter.com/jc1vIxx6pz
— Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) January 29, 2026

“Residency? Residency? The cope is coping,” wrote the rapper. “Finalizing that citizenship paperwork as we speak, as per MY wonderful, gracious, charming President. Thanks to the petition. I wouldn’t have done it without you. Oh CitizenNIKA you are thee moment… Gold Trump card free of charge.”

As detailed on its government website, the Trump Gold Card requires a $1 million contribution to the U.S. Treasury, a $15,000 U.S. processing fee, and a background check. Those who receive the card will gain automatic lawful permanent resident status as an EB-1 or EB-2 visa holder.

However, it remains unclear if Minaj paid the lofty fees. A Platinum card option is also in the works, allowing wealthy visitors to stay in the U.S. long-term without paying taxes or obtaining a travel visa.

She received the immigration golden ticket after speaking at the Trump Accounts Summit in Washington, D.C., Jan. 28, cementing her MAGA status. There, she officially met the man she claims as her “favorite president.” She also let him, and the world, know that she is his “No. 1 fan.”

As for her fans shocked or disappointed by her recent political moves, Minaj remains unbothered. In fact, she says the backlash fuels her to go harder on behalf of Trump.

“The hate or what people have to say, it does not affect me at all,” Minaj told the audience. “It actually motivates me to support him more.”