Jamaica, travel, violent crimes, Jamaican restaurant
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

July 2, 2025

Jamaica To Build Caribbean’s Tallest Hotel And First Innovation Township To Redefine Montego Bay’s Tourism

Jamaica unveiled plans to develop the Caribbean's tallest hotel.

Jamaica is looking to transform the Caribbean’s thriving tourism industry by developing the region’s tallest hotel and first-ever Tourism Innovation Township.

On June 28, Jamaica unveiled construction plans for the 33-story Moon Palace tower in Rose Hall, St. James, the Jamaica-Gleaner reports. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett boasted about the historic nature of the development, citing its innovation, scale, and inclusivity.

“This is a game-changer for tourism in the region,” Bartlett said during the 64th Annual General Meeting of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association. “It will be the first tourism innovation township in the Caribbean, arguably in the world.”

The Unico, Hard Rock, Moon Palace, and Iberostar mega-resorts will welcome the new township, turning the area into what will become the Caribbean’s largest cluster of hotel rooms in one area, with over 5,000 rooms all within walking distance, Bartlett said. It will be developed as a circular economic hub where hotels provide electricity and water to the nearby community while residents supply the goods and services that help power resort operations.

The township aims to revitalize the area by introducing a STEM school, improving healthcare facilities, upgrading local schools, adding supermarkets, and supporting the growth of light manufacturing and cottage industries.

“We are building a model where backyard farming, the production of condiments, sheets, pillowcases, and other essentials will be done right there in the community, feeding directly into the hotel supply chain,” Bartlett said.

“This model brings the people with it. It does not leave them behind. It is a future where tourism doesn’t just create jobs and builds communities.”

By 2030, Jamaica is set to add 10,000 new hotel rooms through major expansions at Harmony Cove, Palladium, Bahia Principe, Unico, Hard Rock, and Moon Palace resorts, as well as two new Sandals properties, one in Runaway Bay and the newly announced AC Marriott in Montego Bay. In addition to the township near Barrett Town, further commercial development is planned on the Rollins lands (Rose Hall Developments) across from the Dreams Rose Hall Resort and Spa (formerly Hilton), featuring service stations and retail outlets.

“Montego Bay is on the verge of an unprecedented tourism renaissance,” Bartlett declared. “This is a level of coordinated, large-scale investment that we have never seen before, not just in Jamaica, but in the Caribbean.”

RELATED CONTENT: Son Of U.S. Soldier Left Without Citizenship, Deported To Jamaica

Will Smith, Jada Smith, Charity
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

July 2, 2025

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith’s Westbrook Aims For Global Anime Expansion With New Partnership

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith's production company is supporting the future of anime content.

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith’s Westbrook Inc. is joining forces with a newly formed studio that’s looking to introduce the next wave of anime content to global audiences.

Westbrook Inc. has teamed up with U.S.-based animation studio Studio Azuki to develop, produce, and globally distribute original anime and adaptations, Variety reported. The partnership will blend Azuki’s distinct creative vision with Westbrook’s Hollywood influence to scale and expand the global reach of next-generation anime projects.

“At Westbrook, our mission has always been to tell stories that connect, inspire, and transcend borders,” said Westbrook CEO Ko Yada.

Partnering with Studio Azuki is a powerful step in that direction. Their creative vision and cultural insight align seamlessly with our global strategy. Together, we’re excited to identify and develop projects that resonate deeply with audiences around the world, blending authentic storytelling with boundary-pushing innovation.”

Initially launched as an NFT project, Azuki has evolved into a studio operating at the intersection of anime production, technology, and social media. Its mission is to foster collaboration between global creators and Japanese anime talent.

The studio’s push for anime content is in response to the booming global anime fandom, especially in the U.S., where the passion for the genre spans mainstream audiences, Hollywood creatives, celebrities like Megan Thee Stallion, who incorporates anime into her music and visuals, and major brands. Studio Azuki aims to blend global momentum for anime with Japan’s rich anime culture to create innovative production models, enhance storytelling, encourage fan collaboration, and launch formats tailored for the social media era.

“With a global-first, creator-centric, and social-native approach, Studio Azuki is our bold step toward building the next generation of anime, one that empowers creators and connects directly with fans,” said Feb Tea, head of content at Azuki Labs.

Azuki is bringing its Anime 2.0 vision to life through several initiatives, including the Enter The Garden anthology series, produced in collaboration with Dentsu and Anime.com, and supported as an early contributor to the Animecoin Foundation.

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Sage Steele, ESPN, trans swimmer, Lia, Thomas, tweets
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

July 2, 2025

Nominees For 2025 Sports Humanitarian Awards Announced By ESPN

The 11th annual Sports Humanitarian Awards will take place in Hollywood, July 15, a day before the ESPYS Awards

ESPN has announced the brands, individuals, and teams that were nominated for this year’s Sports Humanitarian Awards.

The network will present the 11th annual Sports Humanitarian Awards in Hollywood on July 15, where ESPN will celebrate and honor athletes, teams, leagues, and members of the sports industry who have positively impacted society. The show will air the evening before this year’s ESPY Awards ceremony.

“At ESPN, we believe in the profound ability of sports uniting people, inspiring hope, and driving real change,” said Kevin Martinez, vice president of ESPN Corporate Citizenship, in a written statement. “The Sports Humanitarian Awards reflect that belief by honoring the athletes, teams, and organizations who are using their platforms not just to compete, but to serve and to lead with purpose. Now in its 11th year, this event continues to be a cornerstone of our commitment to social impact, and we’re proud to celebrate this year’s finalists and honorees as part of ESPYS Week.”

This year’s awards will take place at the Ray Dolby Ballroom and will be featured in ESPN studio programming and during The 2025 ESPYS, which will air on July 16, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on the ABC network. The ESPYS will air live from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

The nominees and honorees for this year’s Sports Humanitarian Awards are listed below:

  • Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award finalists: CJ McCollum, Alex Ovechkin, Sloane Stephens
  • Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year finalists: Indianapolis Colts, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Kings, New York Yankees
  • Sports Philanthropist of the Year Award honoree: Michele Kang
  • Corporate Community Impact Award finalists: Buffalo Wild Wings, Cheez-It, Fanatics, Monumental Sports & Entertainment
  • Stuart Scott ENSPIRE Award honoree: Billy Bean, former Major League Baseball player and executive
  • Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award honorees: Maegha Ramanathan, Rishin Tandon, Ian Waite

Proceeds from the awards will be donated to the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund at the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

RELATED CONTENT:  Elevating Your Excellence: Fawn Weaver’s Entrepreneurial Vision Forges A Legacy Beyond Whiskey

Jamal Roberts
by Kandiss Edwards

July 2, 2025

American Idol Winner Turns Down Key To Mississippi City After Receiving Death Threats

Jamal Roberts, winner of American Idol Season 23, is turning down the key to the city in Laurel, Mississippi after resident ire and vitriol.

American Idol winner Jamal Roberts turned down a key to an unknown Mississippi city. 

The singer, a native of Mississippi, is receiving accolades and praise for his national success. Roberts won the 23rd season of American Idol, making him a recognizable figure from Mississippi. However, when offered a key to the city of Laurel, Mississippi, the singer declined.

Roberts was scheduled to play the Noir & Blanc event at the L.T. Ellis Centre in the town. City officials proposed presenting him with a key to the city at the event. However, residents believe the town has more deserving contributors who should receive the key. Though born and raised a short distance from the event, Roberts was rejected.

After a local promoter announced Robert’s honor, death threats began. As a result, Roberts declined to participate due to the vitriol. He addressed the controversy on Facebook Live. Roberts shared that he did not seek out the award and would not accept it.

“You have people sharing the post, making threats, talking about they’ll have guns at the event. I worked with kids before American Idol, and it’s crazy that … kids can comprehend (how to behave) more than grown folk. It’s a sad world we live in,” Roberts said on Facebook Live. “I don’t want it, respectfully. You can have it. Tell them I’m appreciative, but I politely decline.”

Although it is an unfortunate turn of events, Roberts has been celebrated elsewhere. On June 14, Atmore, Alabama, presented the singer with a key to the city, and he happily accepted. 

“Wow, today, Atmore, Alabama, gave the girls and I a key to the city and embraced us and made us feel like we were at home. Thank y’all for loving on my babies and accepting me just the way I am,” he captioned a Facebook post thanking the city and its residents. 

Roberts will still headline the Noir & Blanc event according to Eventbrite. Furthermore, the American Idol says the booking was secured long before the debacle. For more information on Jamal’s performance visit the event’s official EventBrite page.

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Las Vegas Aces, WNBA
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 2, 2025

‘She’s Got Now’ Empowerment Luncheon Links WNBA All-Stars And Legends For Growing Movement

The empowerment luncheon will take place during the WNBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis.

The first-ever She’s Got Now Empowerment luncheon is a growing movement for women in sports, taking place during WNBA All-Star Weekend.

Coinciding with the sports tournament, the luncheon is more than a get-together of these renowned women athletes. Years in the making, the event hopes to inspire the next generation of all-stars while amplifying the growth of women’s sports. The luncheon’s founder, Tomeka B. Holyfield, knows what she’s building and is already shaping the future of this rising field.

“The tide is changing. It’s been in the making for two or three years… She’s Got Now spoke to me,” she told the Indianapolis Recorder. “You have to do it now. It’s not tomorrow. It’s not yesterday.” 

Holyfield added, “This is going to be a movement. It’s one of those events that you know is going to be a movement. That’s what we’re feeling.” 

The She’s Got Now luncheon will spotlight trailblazers within the WNBA, from coaches to legends alike. Recognized figures include A’ja Wilson, Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, Dawn Staley, and Doris Burke. Another pioneer for women in sports, Serena Williams, will receive a special recognition award. The event takes place July 17 during the WNBA All-Star weekend in Indianapolis.

The Empowerment Luncheon will primarily focus on Black women game changers in the realm of sports. Holyfield hopes to acknowledge their groundbreaking achievements toward gender equity in athletics and media. For the WNBA specifically, Holyfield aims to capitalize on this momentum as more eyes look at the women’s league.

“Why not now?” Holyfield asked. “Now is the best time, more than ever. Women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs. This year alone, the WNBA will gross upwards of one billion dollars.”  

She hopes the luncheon can also serve as a connector for these women. Beyond their day jobs, many have outside ambitions in media, business, and management. She’s Got Now wants to highlight how their lofty goals are inspiring more women to build their own empires.

“What they’re doing is why this thing is bigger than business and basketball,” expressed Holyfield. “The ball is the foundation, but it’s helping them get the bag … These ladies are turning over the veil of what they thought they couldn’t do.” 

At its core, She’s Got Now is for women in sports to celebrate and recognize one another. The event founder emphasized how women in male-dominated fields are stronger when united and hopes to further cultivate that feeling of support.

“My number one goal is that this grows into a networking and meeting place,” Holyfield said. “We could take our Superwoman capes off and just be glad for the next person … We subliminally know what each other is going through.”  

She continued, “Wherever you are, you don’t need to be validated. You don’t need to wait for a seat at the table. Create your own table …  It’s over waiting for somebody to validate who we are … We make our own tables, we make our own decisions, and we create our own narratives of our lives.” 

Tickets remain available for the She’s Got Now Empowerment Luncheon.

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Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Trump, ballroom, DC Hillbillies
by Sharelle B. McNair

July 2, 2025

Jasmine Crockett Fact Checks Melania Trump’s ‘Einstein Visa’, Claims The ‘Math Ain’t Mathin’

Crockett explained during the June 25 hearing that those types of visas are only supposed to be awarded to highly esteemed dignitaries.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) is questioning the integrity of the Trump family after revealing during a House Judiciary Committee hearing that First Lady Melania Trump received a green card via the elite EB-1 program, also known as an “Einstein Visa.” 

The outspoken lawmaker raised the concerns at a House hearing.

“Let me remind y’all that Melania, the first lady, a model—and when I say model, I’m not talking about Tyra Banks, Cindy Crawford or Naomi Campbell level—applied for and was given an EB-1 visa, and what that stands for is an Einstein visa,” Crockett said.

She explained during the June 25 hearing that these types of visas are only intended for dignitaries of the highest level of esteem. According to The Hill, Trump was first granted a green card in 2001 through a program commonly used for multinational business executives, researchers, and those who have demonstrated “sustained national and international acclaim.”

The former model has received no such accolades.

“You’re supposed to have some sort of significant achievement, like being awarded a Nobel Peace Prize or a Pulitzer, being an Olympic medalist, or having other sustained extraordinary abilities and success in sciences, arts, education, business or athletics,” Crockett continued. “Last time I checked, the first lady had none of those accolades under her belt. It doesn’t take an Einstein to see that the math ain’t mathin’ here.”

A 2018 Washington Post report revealed Trump was one of five people from her home country of Slovenia to receive green cards under the program.

Crockett’s comments come as the U.S. State Department announced a plan to relaunch interviews and processing protocols for foreign student visas. The updated strategy will require applicants to make their social media accounts public for vetting purposes or face potential denial.

The congresswomen did get a laugh out of her remarks. Cato Institute’s vice president for economic and social policy studies, Alex Nowrasteh, who was testifying at the time, stepped in to “defend” the First Lady. “Not everybody could marry Donald Trump, and I think that’s quite an achievement, so I think she deserves credit for that,” he said as Crockett giggled in agreement. 

RELATED CONTENT: Son Of U.S. Soldier Left Without Citizenship, Deported To Jamaica

ESSENCE Festival, New Orleans, Byron Cole, city council, clean zone, unauthorized events
by Kandiss Edwards

July 2, 2025

NOLA Businesses Brace For Impact Of Lagging Essence Fest Ticket Sales

The Essence Festival of Culture is not on track to hit its record 2024 levels of participation, but city tourism officials say that's OK.

The annual Essence Festival of Culture is set for another memorable stretch in New Orleans, but local business owners aren’t as excited. They say the turnout will be lower than in 2024.

Although the event has steadily grown over the years, 2025 has lagged, according to event partners. Hotels, which usually sell out for the event, are only 80% full. According to Kelly Schulz with New Orleans & Company, the official destination sales and marketing organization for the city’s tourism industry, that figure is still more than enough to generate good revenue. 

“I think hotel occupancy is down slightly, compared to previous years, but we’re not concerned. We’re looking forward to a great weekend,” Schulz told Fox 8. “Especially for Fourth of July weekend. I think many cities would love to have an Essence Fest in their city.”

The owner of Biscuits and Buns, Austin Levy, said the expected revenue is needed to compensate for the slower seasons. 

The Fourth of July weekend is typically a major economic boost for New Orleans. In 2024, the city’s economy saw $346.3 million, according to the Economic Impact Report. Over $100 million was distributed to local workers involved in the event. The total exceeded previous years by $30 million.  

As in years past, attendees can look forward to multiple pop-up shops, street vendors, Jazz in the streets, and concerts at the Little Caesars Dome.  

For those who attend, Essence Fest will be a bittersweet treat. Percy “Master P” Miller, a New Orleans legend, takes the stage at the event for the final time in his illustrious career. 

As always, the musical lineup at Essence Fest will be a diverse representation of Black culture. 

Reggae artist Buju Banton will hit the stage along with R&B acts Babyface, Dru Hill, The Isley Brothers, Donnell Jones, and Summer Walker. Singer Jill Scott is presenting Jill Scott and Friends, a curated collection of excellence featuring Patti LaBelle and Jazmine Sullivan. 

Essence Fest will take place July 4 to 6.

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Kamala Harris,NAACP
by Sharelle B. McNair

July 2, 2025

Kamala Harris Slams GOP With Sarcastic ‘Thanks’ After Senate Passes ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’

Harris slammed her former colleagues for hurting the working class just to pay a debt.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris may have lost the 2024 presidential election, but that isn’t stopping her from speaking out against Republicans’ “Big, Beautiful Bill,” the controversial spending bill passed by the GOP-led Senate at the expense of millions of Americans.  

Not too long after the Senate passed the bill, Harris hopped on X to “thank” the GOP members for what they have cost the very voters who elected them.

“Thanks to Senate Republicans, 17 million people will lose their health care. Thanks to Senate Republicans, rural hospitals will close. Thanks to Senate Republicans, three million Americans, including veterans and seniors, will lose food assistance. Thanks to Senate Republicans, families will see their energy bills go up by $400 a year,” she wrote. 

Harris continued her thoughts by criticizing her former colleagues for exploiting the working class to pay off a debt. “Senate Republicans are doing all of this and more—hurting working people across our nation—in order to pay for $1 trillion in tax cuts for billionaires,” the former senator continued. 

Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote for the bill, which was passed on July 1, 51-50. Republican senators Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Rand Paul of Kentucky, and Susan Collins of Maine voted against the legislation alongside the Democrats, according to CBS News. 

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) called the vote “an incredible victory for the American people.”

President Donald Trump, who wants to sign the bill on July 4, joined Republicans in their victory during his Florida trip to visit “Alligator Alcatraz.”

“There is something for everyone [in the bill], and I think it’s going to go very nicely in the House,” he said. “Actually, I think it will be easier in the House than it was in the Senate.”

The legislation needs to be passed by the House. Harris encouraged American constituents to call their elected officials to stop the bill before it is passed. “There is still time to stop this bill before it passes in the House. Call 202-224-3121 and tell your representative to vote no,” Harris wrote. 

Other Democratic leaders are urging voters to do the same.

“Now it comes back to the House,” wrote Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) “Democrats will be holding the line—because somebody has to fight for the folks they’re so quick to leave behind, including their constituents.”

RELATED CONTENT: Son Of U.S. Soldier Left Without Citizenship, Deported To Jamaica

shooting, Howard, homecoming
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 2, 2025

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Picnic In Atlanta Leaves 2 Dead After Masked Man Wreaks Havoc

One of the victims was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi, with the other later identified as the uninvited masked man.

At a picnic in Atlanta’s Coan Park meant to celebrate brotherhood, members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity suffered a tragedy.

A masked man showed up to the picnic, organized by a local Atlanta chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi, one of the Divine 9 fraternities, on June 28. A confrontation escalated into a shooting at around 8 p.m., leaving two men dead. Two more were injured and are expected to recover.

Shots were exchanged between two people, Atlanta Police Department Homicide Commander Lt. Andrew Smith told Fox 5 Atlanta.

One of the deceased was identified as Anthony Pearson, who was not involved in the incident, according to reports. Known by loved ones as “AP,” the Kappa Alpha Psi member was shot in the head.

The other victim, Justin Minnitee, is believed to have sparked the issue as the masked assailant. The 23-year-old was shot multiple times and died at Grady Memorial Hospital. Two other people suffered injuries from the shooting, but are expected to recover.

As for Pearson, his family expressed their grief at the loss of a pillar in the community.

“He was going to make you feel like family. Everybody was family to him,” Pearson’s sister told the news outlet. “His aura is unmatched, it’s always going to be unmatched…When our dad passed, Anthony stepped up. He was the one. That’s why I call him my little big brother—because let him tell it, he’s the oldest and we have to listen to him.”

Atlanta police is asking the public for any information to help the case. Kappa Alpha Psi had not released a statement as of July 2.

In the meantime, the Black Greek community has come together to support the “Legacy of AP.” They are currently holding a virtual fundraiser to support Pearson’s daughter, Avery.

“We are heartbroken to share that Anthony ‘AP’ Pearson, who meant so much to many, has passed on,” detailed the fundraiser’s description. “AP was more than just a friend or brother; he was a light in every room, a source of joy, wisdom, and realness. He poured love into his people, and now, we’re coming together to pour that love back into what mattered most to him: his daughter, Avery.”

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Discover These Black-Owned Burger Spots While You Boycott That Big Mac
by Ahsan Washington

July 2, 2025

Discover These Black-Owned Burger Spots While You Boycott That Big Mac

If you must have a burger, there are healthier options

Amid The People’s Union’s call to boycott McDonald’s in the name of “economic resistance,” there’s plenty to gain. As Black Americans suffer overwhelming rates of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, often a result of diet, stepping away from overly processed fast food for health purposes is not a bad idea. Plus, if you must have a burger, there are far healthier options than what you find at McDonald’s. Thus, the boycott period is the perfect opportunity to abandon Big Mac and Quarter Pounder cravings and opt for fresher, more flavorful alternatives at Black-owned burger joints. Several Black-owned businesses have transformed the burger scene with creative flair and a passion for the community. Discover these five hamburger spots if you happen to be in these areas. 

Trill Burgers

Trill Burgers emerged in 2021 under the leadership of rapper Bun B, delivering smash burgers with crispy edges, topped with American cheese and Trill sauce. Initially a Texas pop-up, the restaurant gained fame through its effective partnership of hip-hop and hospitality. Bun B’s dedication to both the music and hospitality industries resulted in a restaurant where the two come together perfectly. Trill Burgers’ dynamic environment fuses hip-hop vitality with traditional restaurant coziness, making it a favored destination for both residents and visiting tourists.

Marathon Burger

In 2025, Samiel “Blacc Sam” Asghedom launched Marathon Burger in Los Angeles, marking the beginning of its status as a neighborhood landmark. Marathon Burger offers an exceptional burger experience with its premium smash-style burgers complemented by house pickles, vegan options, classic fries, and milkshakes. The restaurant strives to deliver a culinary experience that reflects Nipsey Hussle’s Marathon brand legacy. The Marathon emerges as a symbol of Black ownership and economic growth in the community, contributing to its appeal as a must-visit destination for burger lovers.

Jerrell’s BETR BRGR

Jerrell Obee steered the development of Jerrell’s BETR BRGR into a notable New York City burger spot in August 2021. Night owls can enjoy vegan smash burgers, as well as popular pairings like waffle fries, loaded chili fries, and soft-serve shakes. Jerrell’s BETR BRGR emerged as a top choice for NYC plant-based eaters, who appreciate its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to sustainable practices. BETR BRGR stays open until 1 AM on weekdays and 4 AM on weekends. 

Burger 809

Burger 809 is a culinary treasure. Chef Tasha Smith established Burger 809 in 2015 to deliver a distinctive dining experience in St. Louis, Missouri. This burger spot showcases high-quality burgers alongside a specialized catering selection, enhanced by playlists that perfectly align with the flavor profiles. 

FishScale

FishScale is a unique Black-owned culinary establishment in Washington, D.C. The restaurant boasts an exceptional dining experience, compliments of Chef Brandon, who is also the owner. FishScale is a pescatarian haven that offers seafood sliders, rockfish burgers, salmon sliders, and the True Blue MD crab burger. FishScale’s menu presents chef-driven seafood innovation alongside environmental responsibility, offering a stark contrast to traditional beef burgers.

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