by Jeroslyn JoVonn

July 8, 2025

Dwyane Wade’s Mom Reflects On Their Pen Pal Relationship During Her Incarceration

“Your letters got me through each day and enabled me to be a part of all the wonderful things that was happening in your life.”

Dwyane Wade’s guest-hosting spot on Today with Jenna & Friends offered a glimpse into the heartfelt pen pal relationship he maintained with his mother while she was incarcerated.

The July 7 episode of the daily talk show featured a heartfelt pre-recorded message from “Mama Wade,” Jolinda Wade, who opened up about the heartfelt letters her son wrote to her during the three years she spent in prison on drug charges.

“I remember how we became pen pals when I was incarcerated,” she shared. “Your letters got me through each day and enabled me to be a part of all the wonderful things that was happening in your life.”

Jolinda went on to praise Wade for his dedication to fatherhood, a role she knew he took seriously from the photos he sent of his first child, Zaire.

“When you sent me pictures of my grandson Zaire, I was able to tell from your letters how very proud you were,” Jolinda told her son. “You made up your mind that you were going to be the best dad you could be, and that is exactly what you’ve become. Son, you are simply one of the best dads a child could have. Just like everything else in your life, you give fatherhood your all.”

The praise continued as she commended Wade for his unwavering love and support for his daughter Zaya, who came out as transgender in 2020.

“My love, I admire how you embrace your beautiful child Zaya—my granddaughter,” Jolinda said. “And you encourage her to be who she is. What a dad. You protect her, you speak with her to understand who she is. You don’t judge or condemn.”

Later in the episode, Jolinda joined her son in person and spoke candidly about her past battles with drug addiction and suicidal thoughts. The mother of four credited her children for giving her strength and support to combat her internal struggles.

“They never stopped loving me, never judged me, never condemned me,” she said.

It was also Wade who encouraged his mother to share her story without worrying about how it would impact his celebrity status.

“When they first wanted to do a story about me, and I told him because I wanted to respect the space that he had got in, and he said, ‘Ma, you go and tell your story because the only thing it’s going to do is help someone,’” Jolinda said.

by Mitti Hicks

July 8, 2025

Reggae Music And Creative Artists Are Why The Jingle App Is Launching In Jamaica

The app is free for creators to join. The leaders say the product can give a significant boost to the image of creators who join in.

Launched in Jamaica, the Jingle app is designed for creators—specifically targeting singers, actors, influencers, and public figures—who have a considerable fanbase.

“Jamaica is the first country we are doing the launch in because Jamaica is all about music. When you think of Holland, where I am from, you think of windmills, cheese, and wooden shoes. When you think of Jamaica, you think about reggae music and Usain Bolt,” Vladimir Emmerig, a partner with UK-based Minutes Network, an information technology and telecoms company, told The Jamaica Gleaner.

The app is free for creators to join.

“Something else which cannot be ignored, the product also generates an extra revenue stream,” he adds. “[There’s] absolutely no cost, no catch. The only thing we ask is to share the app with your fanbase, and on our side, we make sure you start earning from day one.”

How Creators Will Make Money Through Jingle

Creators will earn revenue with the built-in calling functionality. Fans will be allowed to make and receive telephone calls from within the app. Emmerig said this feature will turn “fans into a new revenue generation stream, generating significant income.”

“You must be asking, ‘How can all this be free? Sounds like too good to be true.’ But this is where our strength in IT and telecoms joins the artist’s hard work and efforts[…]Combine these two facts, and we have created a strong combination which can create a great new revenue stream.”

International calls to Jamaica are expensive. As Emmering points out, calls from the UK to the US can cost one cent per minute. However, calls from the UK to Jamaica can cost 30 cents per minute and sometimes more.

“There is US$31 million of incoming [call] traffic annually, and with this app, the creators can enjoy a piece of that pie,” he adds.

Jamaica is widely recognized for its music and culture and is notably known as the most innovative country in the Caribbean. It is the birthplace of reggae, ska, rocksteady, and dancehall music, which has had a profound influence on the music scene worldwide.

by Sharelle B. McNair

July 8, 2025

‘Married To Medicine’ Star Dr. Heavenly Kimes Trading TV For Politics

Kimes says she is 'walking in her purpose.'

Dr. Heavenly Kimes, best known for her cosmetic dentistry and starring role on Bravo’s Married to Medicine, is running for a seat in Georgia’s House of Representatives.

In a video posted on Instagram, Kimes said she is “ready” and “walking in her purpose” to serve areas of DeKalb County, which includes Lithonia, Stone Mountain, and parts of Decatur and Stonecrest.

“I bring a unique and needed voice. A Black woman doctor under the gold dome that’s powerful, that’s respectful, that’s present, and that’s exactly what Georgia needs right now,” she said. “I’m running for state representative in District 93 because I believe this is bigger than politics. This is purpose, this is a calling from God, and when God puts something on your heart, you don’t run from it—you rise up.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dr. Heavenly for Georgia (@drheavenlyforgeorgia)

Kimes will launch her campaign with a July 8 public rally and press conference at 5 p.m, according to a press release. Among her goals: affordable and accessible healthcare (including mental health and maternal care) and “police reform rooted in accountability, safety, and justice.”

“I’m not a politician, that’s exactly why I’m the right one for the job. I don’t owe any favors. I’m not part of a political machine,” the dentist and entrepreneur said. “I’m not running for the status quo—I’m running to shake the table.”

Looking to unseat incumbent Democratic leader Rep. Doreen Carter, Kimes’ “Real Life * Real Leadership * Real Change” campaign will rally around preparative education for children, highlighting real-life skills to thrive in areas like entrepreneurship, tech, and financial literacy in addition to heightening an economy that works for all.

“This is a historic moment, and I extend a heartfelt invitation to all my constituents and supporters,” Kimes said. “Join us, lend your energy, and together, let’s demonstrate the impactful force of community power.”

Comments on the video seemingly support the reality television star, one commenter saying with “her politician wig…she means business.” Podcast host Carlos King sent warm congratulations wishes as did fellow Bravo stars like Candice Bassett, who said, “yes, yes, yes!”

Other supporters called her an “inspiration,” while others outside of Georgia said the change is needed. “As an outsider looking in, I say go and make Georgia Heavenly Again,” @21st_centuryafricanman said.

Detroit, golf, Eastside,, Morehouse,, Earl Cooper,Olajuwon Ajanaku

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 8, 2025

Morehouse Grads Return To ‘The D’ To Open City’s First Golf Retail Store

The brand's first retail store has opened in Detroit's airport.

Two Morehouse graduates are taking their Eastside Golf brand back to their hometown of Detroit.

When Olajuwon Ajanaku and Earl Cooper first started the golf apparel brand, they initiated a movement that connected a younger audience with diverse interests in golf. Their idea went on to secure millions in venture funding in 2024, gaining $3.4 million through EP Gold Ventures. According to AFROTech, the initiative was developed through a partnership between the Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA) and Elysian Park Ventures.

Since then, they have scored new premium partnerships with the likes of the NFL, MLB, NBA, and Jordan Brand, with a footwear collaboration with Nike. Now, the rising founders are returning to their roots, expanding opportunities with Eastside Golf through its first retail store, choosing Detroit for the honor.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Eastside Golf (@eastsidegolf)

Both men have deep ties to the area, with Cooper hailing from Flint. Even before this historic feat, Cooper also made history as the first Black PGA teaching professional at the Detroit Golf Club. However, it was in Detroit where Ajanaku sparked the idea of Eastside, and it was also there that the city’s people showed him love for the initial design.

“I came up with the idea for Eastside Golf while I was working in finance in Detroit,” Ajanaku said in a press release obtained by the news outlet.

He added, “I remember showing Earl a sketch of our Swingman logo, and he suggested I put it on a t-shirt. I did, and I was stopped so many times while I was walking around Detroit by people asking where I got this shirt. At that point, I knew there was something there, and Eastside Golf was born. With that history, it just feels right to open our first store here.”

The move to their own location follows the brand’s success at other stores, with this latest venture co-operated by Paradies Lagardère. The retail management company praised Eastside Golf for its connection of the sport to streetwear fashion and culture.

“Eastside Golf transcends culture, music, streetwear and golf, creating clothing that appeals to both golfers and non-golfers alike,” added Aaron Bonham, senior vice president and chief merchandising officer at Paradies Lagardère, said in the presser. “As golf continues to gain more cultural relevancy and credibility, we anticipate this store will perform incredibly well and look forward to expanding our partnership through our PGA TOUR Shops and future Eastside Golf locations.”

Now, their brick-and-mortar store reigns at the Detroit International Airport’s Terminal A. The 300-square-foot space will feature Eastside Golf apparel and accessories, including its Swingman sweatshirts, tracksuits, and essential polo shirts.

by Sharelle B. McNair

July 8, 2025

Target Continues Pattern Of Being Tone Deaf Amid DEI Pushback; Partners With Kai Cenat For Exclusive Product Launch

Social media users said the continuous partnerships with Black creators is Target playing in the faces of the Black community.

Target is facing backlash for continuing to partner with Black influencers, such as popular streamer Kai Cenat. Still, it has yet to adresss the dialing back on its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies.

Collectively, the Black community is continuing to boycott the giant retailer after it sent shock waves in early 2025 by dialing back on DEI policies that had placed Black-owned products on their shelves. Civil rights and religious leaders, such as Revs. Al Sharpton, Jamal Bryant, and members of the Congressional Black Caucus have called on the CEO, Brian Cornell, to address the reasons why, but the calls have fallen on deaf ears.

Instead, the company continues to bypass the calls and partner with Black-owned brands like “TONE,” a personal care brand created by Cenat and his content collective, AMP (Any Means Possible), exclusively at Target. To announce the partnership, Cenat and AMP members, including other Black streamers Duke Dennis, Agent 00, ChrisNxtDoo, and ImDavisss, hosted a livestream sleepover inside a Target store.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pastor Jamal Bryant (@jamalhbryant)

While the boys celebrated the launch, viewers, including Bryant, who led the “Target Fast,” had a problem with it, questioning why the influencers would go along with it.

Bryant reposted the livestream on Instagram and stated that the problem isn’t with the boys, but with the corporations. “If @target would spend as much energy and resources meeting the demands of the target fast @targetfast40 as they are on influencers, paying preachers, and going to @essencefest, we would be further along,” Bryant wrote.

“Doing what’s right for our people is always made to feel like an inconvenience. Stand on business and don’t go back in until they handle us right!”

Others on social media tagged Cenat, warning the 23-year-old not to fall for the retailer’s DEI antics. Before Cenat’s partnership, Target received pushback after sponsoring the 2025 Essence Fest in New Orleans. Fellow YouTuber 19 Keys said the partnership could be bad business and damaging to the brand. “To the Amp group, Kai Cenat, don’t let Target use you!! Don’t be a sell-out to get your product sold out. Bad for business and brand,” he said in a video posted to X.

To the Amp group Kai Cenat don’t let Target use you !!

“Don’t be a sell out to get your product sold out”

Bad for business and brand. pic.twitter.com/h8c9EjYez1
— 19keys (@19keys_) July 6, 2025

Social media users like @DonDadaRahRah said the continuous partnerships with Black creators is Target playing in the faces of the Black community. She also pointed out that working with Kai Cenat will not stop the boycott, as the damage is already done.

“Target is making it very clear they think the Black community can be bought…especially through influencers. What they’re missing is that the people who are actually carrying the boycott, the ones hitting their sales, aren’t the type to be swayed by that,” the user wrote.

“If someone had the integrity and willpower to avoid your store for six months, they’re NOT running back because Kai Cenat did a livestream there.”

The unisex personal care brand consists of body lotions, deodorants and lip balms all for under $15, according to WWD. For the Target rollout, Tone will add part of the rollout, including two new products: a body wash and a body mist called Cologne.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

July 8, 2025

Candace Parker Reveals Details About Hotel Buyout And Prioritizing Daughter’s Care

'I had to buy out half of the room so my mom could stay with my daughter. I was nursing her before the game and at halftime.'

Legendary basketball player Candace Parker, whose Los Angeles Sparks basketball jersey was recently retired, appeared on a recent podcast to discuss some of the challenges she faced as a young mother while playing in the WNBA after having a child.

Parker, who is scheduled to have another one of her jerseys retired in Chicago on Aug. 25 at Wintrust Arena, sat down with another basketball legend, Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Cheryl Miller, while talking to former NFL player Keyshawn Johnson. During her appearance on All Facts No Brakes with Keyshawn Johnson, she discussed that, after her daughter was born and she returned to the league, she had to “buy out” half of a hotel room so her mother could be with the newborn as she took the court.

At the time, there was no paid maternity leave, and it was rare for a professional basketball player to need to take time off from the game to deliver a baby.

“It came at the time we were sharing rooms in the WNBA. So I had to buy out half of the room so my mom could stay with my daughter. I was nursing her before the game and at halftime. I was buying my mom’s ticket to the games with us on the commercial flight. That all came with it, I just wanted to be back out there,” Parker told Johnson and Miller.

This took place during the 2009 season when another WNBA legend, Lisa Leslie, was playing her last season.

Although it had to be a struggle being a young mother and playing basketball on the road, she has no regrets. She recalled that having her daughter with her during that time kept her “grounded.”

“I’m super grateful that she was a part of my career because I don’t know what I would have done. She kept me grounded. She kept me humble,” Parker said.

Who knows if the scheduling Gods planned this, but the three teams that Parker played on are participants in her jersey number being raised to the rafters. When the Los Angeles Sparks retired her No. 3 jersey June 29, they played her former team, the Chicago Sky. When the Sky retires her No. 3 next month, the team will be hosting another team she was a part of, the Las Vegas Aces.

She won titles with each team.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

July 8, 2025

TikTok And CapCut To Release New Versions For US Users

TikTok and CapCut's parent company ByteDance is releasing US-specific versions of both apps.

ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, is planning to launch a U.S.-specific version of the social media app along with its popular video-editing app CapCut.

The move comes ahead of a planned sale of the app to a group of investors, aligning with the 2024 U.S. law that mandates Chinese-owned apps to divest or risk being banned, according to Reuters. TikTok is rolling out a standalone version of its platform tailored specifically for U.S. users, while its video-editing app will launch under a new name: “CapCut US.”

TikTok plans to launch a new U.S.-specific version in app stores by September 5, with the current version expected to fully phase out by March 2026, pending a sale. The move aims to retain its large U.S. user base while addressing growing legal and political pressure.

The move comes as the Trump administration renews efforts to enforce a law, signed by former President Joe Biden and upheld by the Supreme Court, requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. assets to non-Chinese owners. On July 4, President Donald Trump announced plans to begin discussions with China the following week regarding a potential deal for TikTok.

However, by July 7, China’s government deflected questions about Trump’s recent claim that he “pretty much” has a deal in place with Beijing to transfer TikTok to American ownership.

“China has reiterated its principle and position on issues related to TikTok on multiple occasions,” China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said.

ByteDance faces a September 17 deadline to divest the app’s U.S. operations or risk a nationwide ban. The mandate stems from a law signed by then-President Biden last year due to national security concerns. While the original deadline was set for January, Trump has postponed enforcement multiple times.

When previously asked about the TikTok deal, China’s Foreign Ministry called on the U.S. to ensure an “open, fair, just, and non-discriminatory business environment” for Chinese companies. It also emphasized that business acquisitions should be “independently decided by companies based on market principles.” So far, the Chinese government has shown little sign of supporting a forced sale.

In the U.S., TikTok has more than 170 million monthly active users. A Pew Research Center study found that over 60% of American teens and roughly one-third of adults use the platform for news, entertainment, and even to earn an income. Meanwhile, CapCut has become an essential editing tool for both professional creators and everyday users, offering a range of viral video templates and intuitive, easy-to-use features. The app has surpassed 1 billion downloads on Google Play and currently ranks as the top photo and video app in Apple’s U.S. App Store, ahead of Instagram and YouTube.

Beyoncé, Billboard Country Albums Chart, Cowboy Carter

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 8, 2025

Saddle Up, Atlanta! Here’s All That’s Going Down In Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ Weekend

Beyoncé will break venue records with four consecutive shows at Mercedes-Benz stadium.

Atlanta is next on Beyoncé’s tour stop, with the singer performing four shows in the city from July 10 to 14.

In honor of Cowboy Carter weekend, Atlanta is hosting a slew of events for fans to saddle up for a great time. 11Alive rounded up a list of parties, from drag brunches to denim-clad affairs, to get attendees ready for the concerts at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mercedes-Benz Stadium (@mercedesbenzstadium)

Atlanta is known for its inclusive festivities, with its LGBTQIA+ community ready for Queen Bey’s arrival. On July 12 and 13, a drag brunch will go down at The Pub in East Atlanta for drag performances surely inspired by the “Alien Superstar.” Attendees can also expect a special guest appearance by a RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant from a prior season.

For long-time BeyHive members, Believe Music Hall will also host “The Hive Hoedown: A Beyoncé Fan Experience.” The event is perfect for fans of all things Beyoncé, with games and bingo revolving around the “Texas Hold’ Em” singer.

The rodeo chitlin circuit has ticketholders rocking their finest denim attire, with additional events befitting this country’s chic dress code. A “Denim & Diamonds” tea party will go down at the Waldorf Astoria, complete with signature cocktails to get everyone in the mood to “Yee-haw.”

With additional drag brunches and Beyoncé-inspired events sprinkled throughout the weekend, those celebrating the Cowboy Carter tour have plenty to choose from. As for post-concert hangouts, a dance social will teach anyone how to line dance with a partner, and there will be an afterparty dedicated to the Grammy winner.

Atlanta has prepared all stops for a seamless weekend of the highly-anticipated tour. For those wondering how they will get to and from the concert, MARTA has extra trains set to transport the masses safely and efficiently.

Atlanta is the second-to-last destination on the nine-city tour. After her four consecutive shows at the stadium, Beyoncé will complete two more performances in Las Vegas starting July 25.

by Ahsan Washington

July 8, 2025

Black-Owned Water Brands To Keep You Hydrated In This Summer Heat

Water is essential no matter the season

Staying hydrated in the summer heat is a must. Water is essential, regardless of the activities you engage in. Whether it’s from rooftop hangouts, festival days, hiking, or beaching, water has to be a part of your daily intake.

And get this — you can satisfy your thirst while simultaneously supporting Black-owned businesses. And yes — these Black-owned water brands deliver a range of waters, including elite spring water combined with advanced hydration features that offer wellness advantages. These Black-owned water companies deserve your support, whether you’re refreshing after exercise or maintaining radiant skin and a healthy body. Get into it.

Aqua Equity Water

The premium alkaline water brand Aqua Equity emerged in 2020 under the leadership of Ryan Morgan. Their operations center is in Los Angeles, while they dedicate themselves to community advancement. Aqua Equity recruits employees from underrepresented communities while supporting regional initiatives through investment. Their alkaline water delivers smooth hydration while offering a mission for consumers to support.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aqua Equity Water (@aquaequity)

Corner Water

Jerome Nesbitt and Ronnie Webb established Corner Water in 2018 as a still water brand that delivers premium alkaline water packaged in recyclable aluminum bottles. The brand aims to provide pure, unflavored hydration while embracing a street-smart, community-focused approach. They also serve as a platform for young people to learn about entrepreneurship.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Corner Water (@cornerwater)

Maji Pure Water

Courtney Peace established Maji Pure Water in 2022 as a brand offering ultra-purified still water. Maji Pure dedicates itself to promoting wellness while maintaining purity and fostering culture, with its mission focused on delivering access to clean, premium hydration. Customers can purchase Maji Pure Water through the company website.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CIBR Production (@cibrproduction)

LA Great Water

Master P (Percy Miller) established LA Great Water in 2020 as an alkaline, spring water, purified drinking water brand that seeks to deliver healthier drink choices to underserved populations. The brand aims to establish Black-owned supply chains while promoting economic control and long-term stability. You can buy LA Great Water through the brand’s online store.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LA GREAT WATER (@lagreatwater)

Eleven86 Real Artesian Water

Eleven86 Real Artesian Water originates from deep underground aquifers in Autaugaville, Alabama. Originating from Alabama sources, this water has a natural alkaline pH and contains no additives, making it the type of hydration your body truly desires. Marquis Forge founded Eleven86 in 2018, and it can be purchased at select Southern grocery stores, as well as on Amazon and the Eleven86 website. Eleven86 maintains an unwavering dedication to both quality and purity standards.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 🅱️lack Wall St.® (@blackwall.st)

JUST Water

JUST Water was established by environmental activist and multi-talented artist Jaden Smith in 2015. This company delivers pure spring water as well as bubbly flavors in environmentally conscious cartons derived from plant materials. You can find JUST Water at Whole Foods, along with Amazon and the JUST Water website. The brand carries out a mission that extends beyond water, placing sustainability and social impact at the forefront of its mission to deliver clean hydration while maintaining respect for the environment.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JUST water (@just)

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

July 8, 2025

Savannah James And Howard University Put ‘Clinical Integrity’ Into Reframe Beauty

Savannah James opens up about the intention she put into developing Reframe Beauty.

Savannah James is fully aware of how crowded the celebrity beauty space has become, but she’s opening up about the “clinical integrity” she and Howard University have put into Reframe Beauty, which stands apart from the rest.

In developing Reframe, James set out to answer a key question: why isn’t darker melanated skin more deeply studied in clinical skincare research? Her search brought her to Howard University, the top HBCU for dermatology, where experts conducted an in-depth clinical study on 45 participants, ages 26 to 63, representing a wide range of skin tones across the Fitzpatrick Scale.

“We knew clinical integrity had to be at the heart of Reframe,” James told Forbes. “If we were going to make claims, they needed to be backed by real data on real people with real skin diversity.” Partnering with Howard [University] felt natural. “The Howard University College of Medicine’s Dermatology Department is one of the most respected in the country, especially in research on the skin of color. Their participation gave us not just scientific rigor but cultural alignment. Our values matched.”

Building on the thoughtful research, James was also intentional about launching Reframe with just three core products, designed to work seamlessly together. The lineup begins with the Pigment Processor Daily Brightening Serum ($115), a dual-action “smart serum” suitable for both day and night use, which targets uneven skin tone and texture. Next is the standout Compression Complex Facial Sculpting Cream ($95), a daytime moisturizer that delivers instant firming effects while hydrating, boosting oxygen levels, and protecting against environmental stressors like blue light. Completing the trio is the Circadian Cream Overnight Collagen Seal ($135), a rich, “memory foam” moisturizer that supports collagen production and works with the skin’s natural overnight repair cycle to firm, hydrate, and strengthen the skin barrier.

As for why there’s no cleanser or toner, James wanted to avoid overwhelming customers from the start.

“As a consumer, I just use what feels right for me,” she explained. “I wanted to launch with these three products first because I didn’t want anyone to feel overwhelmed. You know, like, ‘I have to use six or eight products, or a full regimen, and learn about this brand all at once.’”

The most heartfelt intention behind the mother of three’s beauty line was to create it with her daughter, Zhuri, in mind, a sentiment she shared when announcing Reframe in May.

“A few years back, my daughter Zhuri looked at me and said that when she grew up, she wanted to be just like me. That moment made me reflect: what blueprint had I established for her to follow?” she wrote in an Instagram caption.

“So I stepped out of my comfort zone—for Zhuri, but really for myself. I set out to create a skincare brand that was inclusive—not just of skin tones and types—but of all aspects of culture: fashion, music, art, design. I surrounded myself with experts in every field and let my curiosity guide me.”