by Kandiss Edwards

May 28, 2025

Diddy’s Attorneys Want Kid Cudi’s Testimony on Porsche Explosion To Be Removed

Lawyers representing Sean "Diddy" Combs are seeking to have Kid Cudi's testimony thrown out due to lack of evidence.

Attorneys for Sean “Diddy” Combs have filed a motion in his federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial to strike rapper Kid Cudi’s testimony, AllHipHop reported.

Kid Cudi, real name Scott Mescudi, testified in federal court about the 2012 firebombing of his Porsche. He said a Molotov cocktail destroyed his vehicle. Furthermore, Cudi testified that a prior threat by Combs led to the bombing as a result of Cudi’s brief relationship with Cassie Ventura.

Attorneys for Combs argue that the statements made are speculative and prejudicial to the defendant.

Combs’ defense maintains that the testimonies lack sufficient evidence and are based on personal beliefs rather than factual proof. They argue that such statements should not influence the jury’s decision-making process. The court has yet to rule on the motion to strike Cudi’s testimony, and the trial is expected to continue with further witness testimonies in the coming weeks.

“Mescudi’s speculation about Combs’s involvement had minimal probative value, whereas the danger of unfair prejudice, particularly since he was opining about an ultimate issue as to which he was the alleged victim—whether Combs was guilty of arson, one of the charged racketeering acts—was great,” Combs’s attorneys said in a statement, People reported.

On May 22, Mescudi posted on X thanking his supporters. The rapper expressed relief at being able to put the “stressful situation” behind him.

https://twitter.com/KiDCuDi/status/1925617995679752588

Witnesses Corroborate Cudi’s Testimony

The latest witness in the trial is Combs’s former assistant, Capricorn Clark. Clark said Combs kidnapped her at gunpoint in 2011. Clark claimed Combs intended to confront and potentially harm Kid Cudi over his relationship with Ventura.

Afterward, Clark described being forced into an SUV and taken to Cudi’s Los Angeles home, where Combs and his bodyguard entered the house. Clark recounted a subsequent incident where Combs violently assaulted Ventura.

Ventura herself testified that the former Bad Boy Records CEO threatened to blow up Cudi’s car after discovering their romantic involvement. Additionally, she stated that Combs expressed a desire for his associates to witness the explosion. Ventura also detailed instances of physical abuse and psychological threats during her relationship with Combs.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 28, 2025

Republican Senator Tells Trump To ‘Take Action’ Against Vladimir Putin: ‘I’ve Had Enuf’

Republican Senator tells Trump to "take action" against Vladimir Putin.

President Donald Trump doesn’t face much opposition from his GOP members, but one Republican senator is calling out the president for not scolding his friend, President Vladimir Putin, over Russia’s attacks on Ukraine.

US Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) took to X on Memorial Day to send a tweet demanding that Trump “take action” against Russia in the form of sanctions.

“I’ve had enuf of Putin killing innocent ppl. Pres Trump Take action AT LEAST SANCTIONS,” Grassley wrote.

I’ve had enuf of Putin killing innocent ppl. Pres Trump Take action AT LEAST SANCTIONS
— Chuck Grassley (@ChuckGrassley) May 26, 2025

Grassley’s remarks appeared to prompt a response, as Trump addressed Russia’s attacks on Ukraine the following day, warning Putin that he’s “playing with fire.”

“What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD. He’s playing with fire!” Trump declared on his Truth Social platform.

Trump’s statement came after his May 25 post, in which he criticized both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over his failed efforts to broker peace between the two nations.

“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him,” Trump wrote. “He has gone absolutely CRAZY!”

“He is needlessly killing a lot of people, and I’m not just talking about soldiers,” he continued. “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!”

Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian president and current deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, responded to Trump’s claims of preventing “really bad” things from happening to Russia by warning that such rhetoric could escalate into a potential World War III scenario.

“Regarding Trump’s words about Putin ‘playing with fire’ and ‘really bad things’ happening to Russia. I only know of one REALLY BAD thing — WWIII. I hope Trump understands this!” Medvedev wrote.

by Keka Araújo

May 28, 2025

Byron Allen’s ‘Comics Unleashed’ To Fill CBS’ Late Night Slot

The series is produced by Allen Media Group, with Allen, Carolyn Folks, and Jennifer Lucas serving as executive producers.

CBS is turning to a familiar face for its post-Late Show slot. The network announced that Byron Allen’s Comics Unleashed will take over the 12:30 a.m. ET time slot, currently held by After Midnight, beginning in September.

The series will officially premiere at 12:37 a.m. ET on Sept. 22 with two back-to-back half-hour episodes.

Following the debut, Comics Unleashed will air Monday through Friday and will be available to stream live on Paramount+ for subscribers with Showtime. This strategic move by CBS signals a return to comedy in a time slot that has seen varied programming since James Corden’s departure.

For decades, the network relied on a consistent late-night structure with The Late Show followed by The Late Late Show.

The end of Corden’s tenure prompted a reevaluation, leading to the temporary placement of Taylor Tomlinson’s After Midnight, a show that blended comedy with internet culture. However, with Tomlinson opting to focus on her stand-up career, CBS sought a more established comedic presence.

Comics Unleashed, which has enjoyed a long run in syndication, features a straightforward format of stand-up comedy, showcasing a diverse array of talent, from established veterans to rising stars.

“‘Comics Unleashed’ is a true passion for me, simply because this world can never have enough laughter,” said Allen, founder, chairman and CEO of Allen Media Group. “I created this show so that the best comedians can all come together and help bring non-stop laughter.”

Hosted by Allen, Comics Unleashed has showcased over 550 comedians since its premiere in 2006, including notable names such as Sebastian Maniscalco, Tiffany Haddish, and Nate Bargatze. The show’s extensive library and established format likely appealed to CBS executives seeking a reliable and entertaining program for their late-night audience.

The series is produced by Allen Media Group, with Allen, Carolyn Folks, and Jennifer Lucas serving as executive producers. It has been in first-run strip syndication since its debut, building a loyal following over the years.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 28, 2025

U.S. Faces $12.5B Tourism Decline As Trump’s ‘America First’ Policies Continue

The U.S. travel sector is taking a big hit in 2025.

The United States is projected to lose $12.5 billion in tourism revenue in 2025 as part of the impact of Donald Trump’s “America First” rhetoric on international travelers.

New data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) shows the U.S. is the only country out of 184 analyzed expected to see a drop in tourism revenue in 2025. Industry leaders attribute the $12.5 billion loss to steep travel costs for international visitors, strict border and immigration policies, and Trump’s “America First” approach, which has turned off global travelers.

“This is a wake-up call for the U.S. government,” said Julia Simpson, WTTC’s president and CEO. “The world’s biggest Travel & Tourism economy is heading in the wrong direction, not because of a lack of demand, but because of a failure to act. While other nations are rolling out the welcome mat, the U.S. government is putting up the ‘closed’ sign.”

International visitor spending is expected to drop below $169 billion by the end of the year, a 7% drop from 2024 and 22% below tourism’s pre-pandemic peak in 2019. WTTC projects U.S. tourism may not return to pre-COVID levels until 2030.

“Without urgent action to restore international traveler confidence, it could take several years for the U.S. just to return to pre-pandemic levels of international visitor spend, not even the peak from 10 years ago,” Simpson said.

Major U.S. cities are feeling the impact of the tourism downturn, with New York City, a longtime favorite among international travelers, expecting 400,000 fewer visitors in 2025, a $4 billion loss in tourism revenue. In California, despite record-setting tourism numbers in 2024, officials anticipate a 1% overall drop in visitors and a 9% decline in international tourism this year.

The decline won’t just affect the travel and tourism sector; the WTTC warns it will deal a significant blow to the broader U.S. economy, hitting communities, jobs, and businesses nationwide.

“This is about growth in the U.S. economy—it is doable, but it needs leadership from DC,” Simpson said.

by Kandiss Edwards

May 28, 2025

DAMN! Detroit Postal Workers Charged In $63 Million Mail Fraud Racket

The United States Postal Service has filed charges against four Michigan individuals who, allegedly, participated in a $63 million mail fraud scheme.

On May 23, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan announced federal charges against four individuals involved in a $63 million mail theft and fraud conspiracy.

The defendants, Jaiswan Williams, Dequan Foreman, Vanessa Hargrove, and Crystal Jenkins, face charges of conspiracy to aid and abet and bank and wire fraud. Notably, Hargrove and Jenkins were employees of the United States Postal Service. The pair worked at the agency at the time of the alleged offenses.

According to the charging documents, Hargrove and Jenkins used their positions within the USPS to intercept and steal checks and other physical items from the mail. Subsequently, Williams and Foreman sold the items online through various marketplaces. The stolen checks and property are valued at approximately $63 million.

Acting Inspector in the USPS Detroit Division, Sean McStravick, stressed that the government will not go easy on the alleged criminals as they represent a larger issue in the postal service.

“The charges against these four individuals underscore the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s commitment to securing the nation’s mail system from those who seek to exploit it for personal and financial gain,” said McStravick.

In a press release, Special Agent in Charge Charles Miller of the Detroit Field Office made clear that the crime is not just white collar. The actions had consequences for many Americans.

“The stealing of checks is not a victimless crime. The stolen checks belonged to citizens to help them make payments for vital services or help through a tough time,” said Miller. “The violations alleged in these charges carry extra weight as some of these individuals were trusted as public servants. We are committed, along with our law enforcement partners, to using our unique expertise to track intricate financial systems, find criminals, and hold them accountable for the crimes committed.”

The investigation was a collaborative effort involving multiple federal agencies. If convicted, they face significant penalties. Penalties include up to 30 years of imprisonment. The case comes at a time when the USPS is under threat.

USPS Under Threat

The USPS is currently facing renewed privatization pressures from the Trump administration. In May 2025, Trump proposed moving the USPS under the Department of Commerce. The move is seen by many as a step toward privatization. The action could potentially endanger the institution as a universal American service.

The appointment of former FedEx board member David Steiner has fueled concerns about the administration’s agenda. Unions representing postal workers have organized protests across the country. The unions stress the importance of maintaining the USPS as a public institution that serves all Americans, regardless of location or income.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

May 28, 2025

California Republicans Hopeful For Kamala Harris’ Governor Run To Boost Funding, Spotlight On Race

The California GOP hopes to boost recognition and funding for their party's future in the state.

California Republicans are hopeful that Kamala Harris will throw her hat into the race for Governor.

The state’s GOP hopes that Harris’ entry would boost funding and energize donors on their side. Their chances of winning the highest office in California remain slim, especially given the state’s status as a Democratic stronghold. However, the effort would still put a greater spotlight on GOP leaders on the rise.

However, the former presidential candidate has yet to make a formal announcement on whether she’s taking on a new office. Despite this, state politicos are already preparing for Harris to be the Democratic choice. With this, California Republicans are eager to capitalize on the momentum.

While unlikely to win, GOP affiliates are still using Harris in early campaign messaging to emphasize how California needs to change toward the political right.

“I sense that this is the best shot for someone to be elected statewide in California who’s not a Democrat for at least 20 years, and I think the evident reason for that is the failure of one-party rule,” said conservative pundit Steve Hilton to Politico. “The candidate who’s going to win in 2026, regardless of party label, is the change candidate. Kamala Harris is the one who least represents change.”

The Republican candidates aim to attack Harris throughout the election to gain traction on their campaigns. Alongside potential attention from President Trump, they also hope to use Trump’s own tactics against Harris to taunt her candidacy. Using Harris as a punching bag to bolster their potential political futures remains the ultimate goal in the GOP’s uphill battle for governor.

“I think it could attract some donors from around the country who might be interested in taking another pound of flesh,” said Republican political consultant Dave Gilliard. “Money is the biggest obstacle other than the registration because the donor world doesn’t think a Republican can be elected governor anymore.”

California Republicans hope to inspire a new coalition of donors for a state that many believe to be solidly blue. However, they also hope Harris’s resurgence in politics will bring notable GOP voices, such as Elon Musk, back into the spotlight. They also hope the tech billionaire’s appearance will come with his pockets.

Typically, state Democrats can secure funding from donors who believe in the return on investment. Now, the high-profile nature of California’s race for governor has raised the stakes for the state’s future and its left-leaning electorate.

Taylor Edwards, gamecocks, TSU, Tennessee state university

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

May 28, 2025

Howard University Looks To Avenge 2023 Celebration Bowl Loss To FAMU At Orange Blossom Classic

Howard University Athletics Director Kery Davis: “The tagline for this game is ‘Built on History. Fueled by Pride,’ but I’d like to say that we see this game as being fueled by revenge."

Howard University will open its next football season playing against Florida A&M University in the 2025 Orange Blossom Classic, which will take place Aug. 30.

The game will be played at Miami Gardens’ Hard Rock Stadium, pitting the two schools against each other as a “revenge” match since Howard lost a close game at the 2023 Celebration Bowl when Florida A&M pulled off a 30-26 victory. This game is also a “rematch” of sorts since these teams played in the first Orange Blossom Classic in 1933.

The countdown is on! @HUBisonFootball vs. @FAMU_FB. The bands. The tailgates. The legacy. — Sat. Aug. 30 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens!

Get your crew & lock in those seats — #OBC2025 is about to be one for the books. Get tickets, hotels & more at https://t.co/NmfGm1NMWw… pic.twitter.com/QskKQbmpNu

— orangeblossomfc (@orangeblossomfc) March 26, 2025

Howard University Athletics Director Kery Davis gave Florida A&M a warning as Howard seeks vengeance on Aug. 30: “The tagline for this game is ‘Built on History. Fueled by Pride, but I’d like to say that we see this game as being fueled by revenge.”

The first Orange Blossom Classic, founded by J.R.E. Lee Jr., the son of then-FAMU president J.R.E. Lee Sr., was played on a “Black only” field in Jacksonville, Florida, in its debut. Before a crowd of 2,000 people, FAMU shut out the Bison by a score of 9-0. More than four decades later, in 1974, FAMU bested Howard again with a 17–13.

Head coach Larry Scott, who grew up in South Florida, expressed excitement in bringing his team down to his native state to compete against the team that took a title championship away from them nearly three years ago.

“This really is a full-circle moment for me, having the opportunity to bring my team here for this game, which means so much to the community and the HBCU culture,” Scott said. “And playing Florida A&M to kick off the season is special because we want to close out the season playing for a championship and could very well do so against them in this year’s Celebration Bowl.”

Anyone with plans to attend the game can purchase tickets for the 2025 Invesco QQQ Orange Blossom Classic here.

For more information on the classic’s weekend of activities, visit www.orangeblossomclassic.com.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 27, 2025

Dawn Richard Denies Drugging Day26’s Que At Diddy’s Request: ‘I’ve Never Drugged Anyone’

“I want to be unequivocally clear: I have never drugged anyone, nor have I ever given anyone pills to take,” she wrote in a post captured by Onsite.

Dawn Richard is responding to ex-boyfriend Que’s shocking claims of her drugging him at the request of their Bad Boy boss Sean “Diddy” Combs.

The Danity Kane singer shared a since-deleted statement on X denying the Day26 singer’s claims, which he revealed on Aubrey O’Day’s Do You Believe Me Now? podcast.

“I want to be unequivocally clear: I have never drugged anyone, nor have I ever given anyone pills to take,” she wrote in the post captured by Onsite.

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A post shared by Onsite!® (@its_onsite)

Richard said Que’s claims are “categorically false” and don’t coincide with their continued relationship after the alleged drugging took place.

“If such a belief were genuine,” she wrote, “it would be inconsistent with the actions that followed—like inviting me into your home, introducing me to your family, and continuing a relationship.”

Her statement has faced backlash online, with many siding with Que and pointing to her recent court testimony against Diddy as a reason to question her denial.

“Her response makes no sense,” one critic wrote. “She said she didn’t drug him, and if she did, then why would he continue the relationship, but she didn’t she just testify how she watched Diddy abuse Cassie multiple times and she continued working with him?”

As details of the horrors surrounding Diddy’s behavior continue to emerge in his trial for federal sex trafficking and RICO charges, many of his artists and affiliates are receiving added attention on what they might say or reveal about the disgraced music mogul.

Que claims Richard gave him what he believes was a horse tranquilizer, which triggered a psychotic episode that took time to recover from.

“Whatever ritual, spell, or manipulation that pill carried, it hijacked my autonomy,” Que shared in a lengthy Instagram caption. “I began isolating myself. Sleep became my only escape from the pressure in my skull. I truly believed it was orchestrated by her boss—a display of power meant to destabilize a ‘weak’ mind and instill fear.”

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A post shared by Que (@queofday26)

Richard said she remained silent about their breakup out of respect and is now calling for compassion toward everyone affected by Diddy’s alleged abuse. “This isn’t about one person,” she wrote. “My intention has always been to move forward with integrity.”

by Kandiss Edwards

May 27, 2025

Ghana Shuts Down Its D.C. Embassy Over Visa And Passport Scams

Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the temporary closure of its D.C. embassy to restructure after fraud.

On May 26, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the temporary closure of the country’s embassy.

The Washington, D.C. embassy was shut down following the discovery of a visa and passport fraud scheme. An internal audit uncovered that a locally recruited staff member, Fred Kwarteng, orchestrated a fraud operation. The operation is said to have occurred over five years, the BBC reported.

Kwarteng and his collaborators created an unauthorized link on the embassy’s visa website. The link redirected applicants to Ghana Travel Consultants. Subsequently, applicants were charged unapproved fees ranging from $30 to $60 by Ghana Travel Consultant’s services, which should have been processed directly by the embassy.

The false visa transaction proceeds were then funneled to staff members’ private accounts. In response to these findings, Minister Ablakwa made a post on Facebook detailing the scheme and subsequent actions by the government. Ghana’s foreign ministry denies knowledge of the scheme and lays the blame at Kwarteng’s feet. According to the government, the employees’ actions are “illicit” and unapproved.

The Ghanaian-Washington D.C.-recruited staff have been suspended. The foreign ministry personnel in Washington have been recalled to Ghana. The Ghanaian embassy closure is expected to last a few days to facilitate a comprehensive restructuring and systems overhaul. Preventing future misconduct is the goal of the closure.

The matter has been referred to the attorney general for potential prosecution. The attorney general will also seek reimbursement for the stolen funds. Ablakwa stressed that the Ghanaian government is committed to zero tolerance for corruption and abuse of office.

Though the government is taking responsibility and disciplining its employees, other Ghanaian officials are taking exception to the Facebook press release. Deputy Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, reported the concerns of many Ghanaian officials.

Ayeh believes that swift action to make a statement can ruin the country’s reputation.

“You think stakeholders — like the U.S. government — would be comfortable dealing with an embassy that Ghana’s own minister has declared fraudulent? This is why we insist the minister’s approach was flawed.”

Whether the government has taken a hit on its reputation due to these events remains to be seen.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 27, 2025

Man Admits To Calling CPS On Mother Of Viral Sensation ‘Miss Shirley,’ ‘I Was Just Looking Out’

"Quite frankly," the man said, "I don't give a damn."

A man is owning up to being the reason CPS was called on the mother of 4-year-old viral dancing star Miss Shirley.

The toddler has gained a significant social media following, earning spots on local news and The Jennifer Hudson Show for her crowd-pleasing line dancing. While many celebrate her talent, charm, and personality, some critics have taken issue with the outfits and dance moves Miss Shirley performs under her mother’s guidance.

Among the critics is one man who recently took to TikTok to take credit for being the “guilty” culprit who involved Child Protection Services in Miss Shirley’s internet fame.

“I see everybody asking the million-dollar question. ‘Who calls CPS on Miss Shirley Mama?’ Guilty,” the man said in a video captured by Onsite. “I didn’t know her mama was gonna get on live, crashing out afterwards. And, quite frankly, I don’t give a damn.”

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The man who contacted CPS said he’s facing backlash for reporting a family he doesn’t personally know. However, he claims he was “scared” for young Miss Shirley’s well-being and felt compelled to take action.

It was after seeing Miss Shirley’s recent red dress video, set to Johnny Gill’s “Red Dress,” that prompted him to “take action.”

“Nah, man, I picked up my phone immediately,” he said. “There’s one thing about us talking about this sh*t every day. But I feel like somebody had to take action.”

He has received mixed reactions to his call to CPS. “Called CPS for what??? Her dancing?… smh people need to find something to do…,” one person wrote. However, many seemed to agree with the decision and admitted to finding some of Miss Shirley’s online content inappropriate for a 4-year-old.

“The red dress video is giving grooming 🤷🏾‍♀️ this is a weird world we’re living in,” one critic wrote. “Kids are not safe just being kids, no parent should make it even harder by putting their children in situations that could go wrong.”

Miss Shirley’s mother, Tish Tucker, has since responded to the criticism of her daughter and how she parents her child, saying it’s the people sitting at home “with nothing to do” who have the most to say.

“I’m sick of it. I’m a motherfu*king mama before anything. I’m sick of you low-life bi*ches trying to discredit me as a mother,” she said in a video posted online.