ludacris, Rock the country, MAGA, Kid Rock — (Photo: Derek White/Getty Images)

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 29, 2026

The Ludacris Foundation Celebrates 25 Years Of Giving Back To Community

The foundation cultivates youth-focused initiatives

The Ludacris Foundation, founded by Atlanta artist and actor Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, is marking 25 years of community service and youth-focused initiatives.

The rapper’s mother and the foundation’s president, Roberta J. Shields, explained that it had been his goal since he was young to give back to the community, and he has been doing so since the organization’s inception.

“When Chris was small, we would have goals in terms of his achievements,” Shields said. “Part of those goals was giving back to the community.”

“I really mimicked what I did for my staff with my son,” she said. “He had goals, he had measurements.”

According to the foundation’s website, nine other people help run the organization.

The foundation is run by a small team, with Ludacris serving as chairman and Shields as president, supported by program and communications staff.

With Ludacris returning with new music and a new album, Shields recognizes the foundation’s impact and welcomes what’s in store.

“Every corporate partner that Chris has has provided support to the foundation in some way,” Shields said. “We’ve been extremely blessed, and we’ve never lost the vision of why we want to do this, so that we can bless others.”

The rapper most recently released a new single, “Pull Over,” and has issued a challenge to marching bands across the country.

The #PullOverChallenge has already been answered, with the Atlanta artist already making appearances at Florida A&M University (FAMU) and Clark Atlanta University after the HBCUs responded via social media.

u.s. dollar, decline — (Photo: Pepi Stojanovski/Unsplash)

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 29, 2026

Rashaun Williams’ Harbinger Sports Partners Closes Fund I Strategy At $450 Million

Rashuan L. Williams' Atlanta-based Harbinger Sports Partners announced the initial close of its Fund I strategy at $450 million.

Harbinger Sports Partners, founded by investor Rashaun L. Williams, successfully closed its initial Fund I strategy, securing more than $450 million in assets under management.

On April 23, Atlanta-based Harbinger Sports Partners announced the initial close of its Fund I strategy. With its founding by the “Shark Tank” star—who serves as chief investment officer—the firm drew backing from major private wealth platforms, family offices, and institutional investors seeking long-term exposure to professional sports ownership.

“This first close validates both our strategy and our belief that minority ownership in elite American sports franchises represents a distinct and rapidly institutionalizing asset class,” Williams said in a press release. “The capital markets are beginning to recognize what we have known for some time – that premier American sports franchises represent a uniquely durable, culturally resonant, and increasingly accessible investment opportunity. We are grateful for the confidence our wealth partners have placed in our team, and we are energized by the institutional interest we expect to formalize in the months ahead.”

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Founded by Williams, alongside sports executive powerhouses Steve Cannon, Mark Cuban, and Jonathan Mariner, Harbinger Sports Partners is a private equity firm focused on minority stake investments in top franchises across major U.S. sports leagues. Its strategy centers on three pillars—Identification, Transformation, and Realization—aimed at delivering strong long-term returns through partnerships with teams, leagues, and ownership groups.

The firm differentiates itself by targeting minority stakes in established, profitable North American pro sports teams—a scarce, high-value segment with steady revenue. Unlike broader platforms, the firm focuses exclusively on this blue-chip space to move quickly and precisely.

With Williams already a minority owner of the Atlanta Falcons, the leadership team brings deep industry experience: Cannon previously led AMB Sports and Entertainment and oversaw the Falcons and Atlanta United FC; Cuban retains a 27% stake in the Dallas Mavericks after selling majority control in 2023; and Mariner, a former Major League Baseball CFO, now serves as a general partner.

Together, they are targeting minority stakes in top-tier MLB, NBA, and NFL franchises, leveraging an operator-led approach built on firsthand experience in team ownership, league dynamics, and long-term value creation. Following a strong initial close, Harbinger Sports Partners aims to pair its operator-led expertise with market demand modeling and operational analysis to spot high-value minority ownership opportunities before they reach the broader market.

“We believe the next chapter of sports investing will favor firms that are focused rather than expansive, and deeply embedded rather than externally opportunistic,” Williams said. “Our goal is to become the partner of choice for owners across the ‘Big Three’ leagues who value continuity, credibility, and long‑term alignment.”

Michael B. Jordan, Obsidianworks — HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 26: Michael B. Jordan attends Marvel Studios' "Black Panther 2: Wakanda Forever" Premiere at Dolby Theatre on October 26, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 28, 2026

Michael B. Jordan Puts $10M LA Mansion Back On Market In Latest Move Since ‘Sinners’ Oscar Win

Jordan put the home back on the market amid his Oscars win.

Michael B. Jordan hopes to start anew since his Oscar win for “Sinners.”

The 2026 Academy Award winner for Best Actor has placed his Los Angeles home back on the market. The estate, located on a half-acre in Encino, is currently listed for $10.49 million.

However, this price point is lower than what the Hollywood darling initially paid for the 8-bedroom residence. According to the New York Post, Jordan bought the property in 2022, forking out $12.51 million for the modern farmhouse-style abode.

Now, if he sells at this new market price, he would take a roughly $2 million loss on the sale. However, given his new status in Oscar history, Jordan seems to have plans for a new home to display his trophy.

His current residence, on the other hand, is not too shabby. The three-story mansion spans 11,599 square feet and is enclosed by a gate that could deter fans from sneaking inside.

Other premium features of the home include a high-tech security system, elevator, and grand chef’s kitchen. Upon entry through its 20-foot pivot door, guests can witness the home’s vast, open layout, complete with high ceilings and glass walls.

However, its amenities expand to other parts of the estate as well, including a temperature-controlled wine cellar, infinity-edge pool, gym, and guest house. Fans of Jordan’s work can also catch his acclaimed films, such as the 2025 horror hit, in the screening room downstairs.

While the home initially failed to meet buyers’ interest, Jordan hopes that a second round in the market will take the property off his hands. Beyond his real estate venture, Jordan intends to keep up the momentum following the award winning success of “Sinners.”

Up next, the 39-year-old will direct and star in a remake of the heist film, “The Thomas Crown Affair,” set for release in 2027. However, his place in the industry does not stop there, as his marketing agency, Obsidianworks, regained its full independence in March.

With many opportunities ahead of him, fans of the Hollywood heartthrob can expect to see more of his artistry in the upcoming year.

Job Scam, Interview — (Photo: cottonbro studio/Pexels)

by Sharelle B. McNair

April 28, 2026

The ‘Four-Day Work Week’ Seems Great For Everyone But Business Owners: Here’s Why

Experts have shown data revealing a four-day work week increases employee satisfaction and well-being but the practice seems to be failing.

Around the world, the concept of a “four-day work week” seems to have the approval of everyone from employees to human resource experts but not business owners and leaders, who are seemingly stopping the practice from becoming widespread, Harvard Business Review reports.

Experts have shown that a four-day work week increases employee satisfaction and well-being, while addressing modern workplace issues like employee engagement, without decreasing productivity. OpenAI recently published a policy paper encouraging companies to pilot a four-day workweek as an “efficiency dividend” to give workers more time back.

The practice seems to be failing, but why?

Despite the data and push, business owners and leaders loathe the concept, claiming that four-day workweeks only heighten complaints about today’s workplace, targeting younger generations and labeling them as “lazy” or “disinterested.”

JP Morgan Chase’s CEO, Jamie Dimon, pushed some blame on the increased use of AI, saying it will “eventually reduce the workweek in the developed world,” according to The Guardian.

The authors of the book, Do More in Four: Why It’s Time for a Shorter Workweek, Jared Lindzon and Joe O’Connor, feel that when done right, the four-day workweek gives organizations and companies the opportunity to better manage workplace collaboration and coordination.

“The change could be disruptive to business communication practices; however, that fear is precisely what motivates organizations to get more serious and intentional about internal communication prior to making the switch,” the authors wrote.

“Undertaking that kind of change can be daunting and time-consuming, which is why such efforts tend to fall to the bottom of everyone’s priority list. However, the prospect of a shorter workweek provides the necessary motivation to encourage that kind of change.”

The concept could be adapte—if it were rebranded. Some ideas include a “performance pay” or “smart pay” or “results/rewards” compensation system, claiming the terms are less lazy and push getting things done more. It also seems to be more appealing to business executives.

As some companies have already adopted a four-day work week, there are ways organizations can redesign the practice to make it more appealing, such as ditching distractions, creating more focused, intentional work environments, adopting AI and productivity-boosting technologies, and structuring definitions and processes for escalations and work emergencies.

oprah, ozempic,wieghtwatchers, stock, shares — #image_title

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 28, 2026

Oprah Winfrey Inks Multiyear Deal with Amazon

Oprah Winfrey is bringing her podcast, book club, and old episodes of "The Oprah Winfrey Show" to Amazon as part of a new multiyear deal.

Oprah Winfrey is bringing her billion-dollar media empire to Amazon after signing a comprehensive multiyear deal with the streaming giant.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

On April 27, it was announced that a new podcast from Winfrey, along with her book club and classic episodes of The Oprah Winfrey Show, will be coming to Amazon under a new deal, Deadline reports.

As part of the agreement, Wondery will hold exclusive distribution and advertising rights for The Oprah Podcast across audio and video platforms.

The podcast, produced by Harpo Productions and executive produced by Oprah Winfrey and Tara Montgomery—with co-executive producers Brian Piotrowicz and Brad Pavone—draws on the spirit of The Oprah Winfrey Show, blending self-improvement with conversations on topics like tech addiction, divorce, and grief.

“Hosting this podcast allows me to continue the work I feel called to do—opening the door for conversations that matter,” Winfrey said in a statement. “The kind of conversations that remind us we’re not alone, and invite us to see ourselves and one another more clearly. Expanding our reach globally is an opportunity I embrace, as we continue to connect through stories that invite new ways of seeing and, hopefully, deepen understanding.”

Guests have included Misty Copeland, Hugh Jackman, Kate Hudson, Mel Robbins, and Serena Williams. The show will begin rolling out two episodes a week starting in July. Fans can stream the podcast on Prime Video, Amazon Music, Fire TV Channels, and Audible, as well as on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other distributors.

The agreement also grants Amazon rights to Oprah Winfrey’s Oprah’s Book Club and Oprah’s Favorite Things, along with the full 25-season archive of The Oprah Winfrey Show.

As Amazon expands its advertising business, it is increasingly integrating its retail platform with audio and video content.

The deal adds to Wondery’s repositioning as a celebrity-driven podcast hub alongside Audible, with shows like New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce, Baby, This is Keke Palmer, and Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard.

“Oprah Winfrey has built one of the most iconic, timeless brands in the world, spanning television, publishing, and beyond,” said Steve Boom, Amazon’s vice president of audio, Twitch, and games, in a statement. “Through this collaboration with Harpo Entertainment, we are bringing her voice to more people and expanding how her audiences engage with Oprah in ways only Amazon can deliver.”

London Marathon,Sabastian Sawe,Yomif Kejelcha — Photo by Amanuel C from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-spectating-a-city-marathon-22620859/

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 28, 2026

Africans Dominate London Marathon In Under 2 Hours

The top 3 runners beat the previous world record of 2 hours and 35 seconds

Two African men finished the London Marathon in under two hours, marking the first time anyone has clocked a marathon time under two hours.

According to The Associated Press, Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe won the marathon in 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds, smashing the previous record set by Kelvin Liptum at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, who clocked 2 hours and 35 seconds. Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha finished at 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 41 seconds to come in second behind Sawe. It was his first London Marathon.

“What comes today is not for me alone,” Sawe said after the race, “but for all of us today in London.”

Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo came in third, with a time of 2 hours and 28 seconds. All three African runners broke Kiptum’s three-year-old record.

Another runner has completed a marathon under two hours. Kenyan long-distance runner Eliud Kipchoge did that in 2019, but it did not enter the record books because it wasn’t a traditional race. He ran a tailored race, the “1:59 Challenge,” and finished in 1 hour, 50 minutes, and 40 seconds. The race was run in favorable conditions on a six-mile track with a stable of 41 rotating pacemakers.

The winning women also set records in the marathon. Three African women finished under 2 hours and 16 minutes.

Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa won the race when she finished in 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 41 seconds, making it the fastest-ever time in a women-only marathon. Although she set the record for a women-only race, she missed the fastest time by a woman in a mixed race by 16 seconds. Paula Radcliffe set that record in 2003.

“I screamed when I finished because I knew I was breaking the world record,” Assefa said. “I felt much healthier today and have worked really hard on my speed, and all my training has paid off.”

Kenya’s Hellen Obiri finished 12 seconds behind Assefa, marking her personal best time during her first London Marathon. Joyciline Jepkosgei, also from Kenya, followed Obiri after finishing two seconds behind, to come in third place.

Miguel, NYU — LOS ANGELES - MARCH 14: Singer Miguel arrives for the 2019 iHeart Radio Music Awards on March 14, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Glenn Francis/Pacific Pro Digital Photography)

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 28, 2026

Miguel Takes On Mentorship Role As NYU Scholar-In-Residence

Miguel is connecting with creatives in new ways as the 2025–2026 Scholar-in-Residence at NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development.

As the 2025–2026 Scholar-in-Residence at NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, Grammy-winning singer Miguel is witnessing the impact of his work firsthand.

Last October, NYU announced that Miguel would launch a yearlong residency, sharing two decades of industry experience with students through seminars, masterclasses, and cross-disciplinary collaborations. Now, six months into his “CAOS Curriculum”—inspired by his 2025 album—the “Adorn” singer is reflecting on how the residency is shaping his impact on emerging creatives.

“The funnest part has been the sharpening of the concepts and the lessons that I think are important to pass from one artist to other creators,” Miguel told Jabari Young on Forbes’ “The Enterprise Zone.” “I think the sharpening, the questions that I get, the interaction, that’s been the most rewarding because it lets me know that my experience is not only valuable for me but that it’s impactful for other people.”

The residency launched alongside CAOS, Miguel’s fifth studio album, released on October 23—his 40th birthday. His “CAOS Curriculum” covers topics like sparking creativity, finding collaborators, modern marketing, and the business side of music, including contracts and intellectual property.

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Miguel says the timing feels intentional, reflecting what he sees as real “chaos” shaping both life and creative expression.

“Getting these questions, reinforcing the ideas and the concepts and my personal experiences and drawing parallels to historical events where people really spoke chaos to power in their own way, that gives me hope, and I think in a time of chaos, that’s what we need the most and specifically for artists,” Miguel explained.

With more than two decades in the industry—having released his major-label debut as a teenager and going on to collaborate with the likes of Usher and Musiq Soulchild—Miguel designed the program to challenge an industry he says often profits from creators while offering them the least protection.

“The CAOS Curriculum is about shifting that balance—re-centering power with artists and creative enablers,” he said in a press release. “It’s not just about making your best work, but knowing how to protect and sustain it.”

Through his coursework, Miguel has found a new way to share his passion for music and connect with fellow creatives.

“Art is important because you got to have hope to create. You have to have it,” he said. “And to make art gives other people hope because they see themselves in art’s details. And to see oneself in the details of others means that we’re drawing a connection to humanity. We’re giving a reason for people to connect to one another. And I think in a time again of uncertainty, we need that the most.”

Obama-Appointed Judge, Trump Administration , Medicaid Data, Undocumented Immigrants, ICE — (Photo: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons)

by Sharelle B. McNair

April 28, 2026

Trump Seeks To Rebrand ICE To ‘NICE’ Amid Record High Custody Deaths

The call comes at an interesting time after data from NPR reveals immigrant deaths in ICE custody have already surpassed the 2004 toll of 28, the previous record.

As the number of immigrant deaths while in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody has reached record numbers, President Donald Trump seeks to rebrand the agency, endorsing a name change to “NICE,” meaning “National Immigration and Customs Enforcement,” The Hill reported.

Following an idea by conservative influencer Alyssa Marie, Trump supported the move on his Truth Social network. “I want Trump to change ICE to NICE (National Immigration and Customs Enforcement) so the media has to say NICE agents all day everyday,” Marie wrote on X.

In response, the president said, “GREAT IDEA!!! DO IT.”

Shortly after, other leaders, such as media personality Mick Sortor, chimed in with support. “100% agree! Make it happen, @SecMullinDHS!,” he wrote, tagging Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin.

Even the White House and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) support the narrative, as evidenced by a post on X.

ICE ➡️ NICE AGENTS.

'National Immigration and Customs Enforcement.' DO IT! pic.twitter.com/ILwl6gVx6j
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 27, 2026

ICE is NICE. pic.twitter.com/IGykO9CYAp
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) April 27, 2026

During a speech at a National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) event, Trump claimed that the name change is something Americans want, claiming that when agents take off their masks at airports, people can see they are “nice guys.”

Democrats are going INSANE after President Trump fully endorsed overnight changing the name of ICE to NICE – National Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Would you support this change? pic.twitter.com/OHoGrIGECa
— Conservative Brief (@ConservBrief) April 27, 2026

But the call comes at an interesting time after data from NPR reveals immigrant deaths in ICE custody have already surpassed the 2004 toll of 28, the previous record. The new record is 29 deaths following the most recent death of Aled Damien Carbonell-Betancourt, 27, of Cuba, who was held in ICE custody in Miami. He was arrested for allegedly resisting an officer with violence in 2025. ICE released a report claiming Carbonell-Betancourt was found unresponsive in his cell on April 12.

The cause of death was listed as a “presumed suicide,” however, the official cause is under investigation.

Despite the call for a rebrand, it’s not that easy — according to government policy. A federal agency name change requires congressional action through legislation to amend the statutory authority that established the agency. But the Trump administration has shown it can bypass that, changing the name of the Department of Defense to the Department of War without congressional assistance.

ICE immigration operations continue to be a contentious talking point on Capitol Hill amid the troubling deaths of U.S. citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who were fatally shot by federal agents earlier this year during Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis. And senators unanimously approved a bill to fund DHS, except for ICE and Border Patrol.

Several House Republicans have stood their ground on refusing to pass legislation. Still, they are pressuring a reconciliation bill that would, as a result, fund DHS in full for several years.

nursing home The family wants the nursing home to be held accountable. — Photo by Tatomm/Getty Images

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 28, 2026

Anonymous Angel Donor Pays For Veteran’s Wheelchair After VA Dept Refused Replacement

Lisa Groves was refused a new wheelchair by the VA department over claims she's had too many that later broke.

An anonymous donor has paid for a veteran’s new motorized wheelchair after Veterans Affairs services refused to cover it.

Lisa Groves was the focus of a recent WSB-TV news story, in which she detailed her conflict with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs over a replacement wheelchair. The VA refused to replace her broken power wheelchair, claiming that Groves had abused her prior devices.

The lack of a resolution left Groves crying out for help, as the broken chair left her immobile. Fortunately for Groves, her story fell upon the right ears as she described her plight.

The veteran had also reached out to local leadership across Metro Atlanta for help with her disability matter. However, no one had answered the call until an anonymous news watcher took action.

The person, who prefers to remain anonymous, footed the bill for a new custom wheelchair for Groves. Now, the veteran can move about safely and more efficiently, while thanking God for the answered prayer.

“I just thank God that you listened to me. I reached out to everybody, my Senators, Congresspeople, everybody. And everybody disregarded me. If it wasn’t for you coming out, I don’t know what I would do,” explained Groves to a WSB-TV reporter.

Before her new power chair, Groves’ broken device left her feeling discouraged about continuing her life. The Georgia veteran admitted to a suicide attempt over feeling trapped in her apartment.

However, the VA has remained adamant about not granting a replacement chair. In a statement to the news outlet, the department also noted that her past mobility devices had sustained over $30,000 in damage.

Despite this, Groves claims she did not cause the wear and tear, blaming faulty machinery from the vendors that produce the devices. Her last VA-provided chair had its motor go out shortly after the device received new wheels.

“Went to check my mailbox, it broke down. And I was sitting there humiliated because I’m in the middle of the street. My neighbors are coming and getting around me, directing traffic. I could have been killed,” Groves said.

Now, with this gift toward her mobility, Groves feels as though she can move forward with her life.

“I want to tell veterans, don’t give up. You’ve got to fight. I’ve been an advocate for 34 years, and I had to fight hard for myself. Don’t give up. Don’t let people tell you no,” explained the woman.

She added, “I feel like I got my life back. I feel a human being again.”

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 28, 2026

Jim Jones Records Encounter With Lowe’s Manager Who Called Police

The Harlem rapper says he was accused of switching prices on an item.

Jim Jones filmed a confrontation with a Lowe’s manager who called the police after accusing him of switching prices on an item.

The incident took place over the weekend when the 49-year-old rapper reportedly visited an unnamed Lowe’s in New Jersey. He ran into a situation where the item he wanted to purchase was labeled with the wrong price. While at the register, the manager, according to Jones, seemingly accused him of switching the price, which Jones denied.

Jones, who said that the locks were priced at $78, filmed the interaction while talking to the manager.

“I went to one of my favorite places today @loweshomeimprovement, and I was treated less than very embarrassing yal know my first thought was to crash, but I’ve learned I can’t handle every situation with that mentality cause it turns me being right into a wrong due to the way I react.”

In the video, Jones tried to speak to the manager, who ignored him. He told the manager that instead of de-escalating the situation he only made it worse by apparently calling the police.

The manager said nothing as Jones continued to complain about how he was treated.

The police arrived, and Jones explained the situation to them while another store employee approached the register. As the police tried to find out what’s going on, the employee spoke with them and then told the cashier to honor the items’ prices.

The product was sold to an acquaintance of the rapper, who paid in cash. Meanwhile, Jones had some final words for the manager, who left the area after the police arrived without saying a word.

It appeared that Jones was not arrested as he and his acquaintance picked up the locks and left.

You can view the interaction below:

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