Mielle Organics, Urban Skin RX, KT Winery, Advisory Board

by Stacy Jackson

March 14, 2025

Mielle Organics, Urban Skin RX Founders Join Advisory Board For BIPOC, Women-Owned KT Winery

Mielle Organics Founder Monique Rodriguez and Urban Skin RX Founder Rachel Roff lend their expertise to BIPOC and women-owned KT Winery.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, KT Winery, a Black and Asian-woman-owned wine company, appointed Mielle Organics Founder Monique Rodriguez and Urban Skin RX Founder Rachel Roff as its two newest board advisors.

Rodriguez and Roff join advisors Alex Butti, Bobby Salerno, and Patrick Lynch. The move, effective immediately, positioned the successful beauty industry entrepreneurs to help guide the direction of the BIPOC and women-owned company.

The newest advisors have already begun lending their business expertise to the Mom Juice Wine brand maker. Kristin Taylor, CEO and one-half of the founding duo for KT Winery, said in a press release, “Both Rachel and Monique have already provided valuable advice as the beauty industry has a reputation for understanding consumers deeply and creating products and experiences perfectly for their audiences.”

Women business owners continue to climb in today’s economy and are reaching back to lend a helping hand to others. According to a press release, Rodriguez said, “Throughout my journey with Mielle Organics, I have been passionate about showing up and opening doors for future generations of Black and female entrepreneurs.”

She said about her involvement with KT Winery, “I’m honored to join KT Winery’s board of advisors and use my experience to pour into another woman-led brand.” The gratitude surrounding the newest board advisors is mutual, as Taylor said about Rodriguez and Roff, “We are grateful for their commitment to KT Winery and helping us take this business to the next level,” per the release.

Roff, whose Urban Skin RX brand was acquired by American Exchange Group earlier this year, recognized the hustle in the women-led KT WInery.

She said, “It was the grit, tenacity, and hustle of the founders. I believe they understand the sacrifices needed to grow this brand in a way that is both financially and operationally smart. Their commitment and strategic mindset set them apart, and I have no doubt that Mom Juice is built for success.”

The BIPOC-owned company founded by Taylor and Macie Mincey also announced the debut of its WeFunder Investment campaign. According to a press release, WeFunder aims to raise $1.1 million to land the brand on the shelves of 300 more retailers. The low-sugar Mom Juice Wine brand is already sold in over 500 locations.

To increase the number of women investors, the company welcomes $100 or more investments as part of its WeFunder Investment campaign for $1.1 million. Anyone can invest until April 30.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

March 14, 2025

Dad and 16-Year-Old Son Launch New AI-Powered Financial Coaching Tool

This revolutionary AI is the result of a unique collaboration between Eric McLoyd, Sr., a seasoned financial advisor and coach, and his 16-year-old son, Eric Jr., whose fascination with technology sparked the idea for this innovative tool.

A father’s determination to turn a teachable moment into a groundbreaking project has led to the creation of Coach Kai, an AI-powered financial tool that aims to make financial coaching accessible to everyone. This revolutionary AI is the result of a unique collaboration between Eric McLoyd, Sr., a seasoned financial advisor and coach, and his 16-year-old son, Eric Jr., whose fascination with technology sparked the idea for this innovative tool.

The story began when Eric Jr. got into trouble at school for using ChatGPT to complete his assignments. At first, his dad was frustrated but quickly saw the potential in his son’s ingenuity. Eric Sr. decided to channel his son’s tech-savvy instincts into a constructive project: building an AI-powered tool that could address a widespread issue—greater access for people who want financial coaching.

“I’ve met thousands of people who want and need financial coaching, but they were limited by access. Then here’s my son tapping into cutting-edge technology with curiosity and ingenuity,” said Eric McLoyd, Sr. “He just needed a constructive way to channel it.”

The result is Coach Kai, a free financial coaching tool that merges Eric McLoyd Sr.’s 10,000+ hours of financial expertise with his son’s passion for technology. Built on Eric Sr.’s proven financial coaching approach, Coach Kai delivers goal-driven interactions designed to guide users step-by-step toward financial freedom. It also provides direct access to supportive financial lessons and other educational content.

“Our vision is to make financial coaching accessible for everyone,” explained Eric McLoyd, Jr.. “And while it’s exciting to launch this tool, the best part has been working with my dad. It has really taught me the power of turning challenges into opportunities.”

For the father, Coach Kai is more than just a financial tool—it’s a story of perseverance, innovation, and family. “So here we are, father and son, ready to share Kai with the world,” he added. “Who knows? Maybe this is the beginning of my son’s journey as a financial professional.”

A father’s determination to turn a teachable moment into a groundbreaking project has led to the creation of Coach Kai. This AI-powered financial tool aims to make financial coaching accessible to everyone. This revolutionary AI is the result of a unique collaboration between Eric McLoyd, Sr., a seasoned financial advisor and coach, and his 16-year-old son, Eric Jr., whose fascination with technology sparked the idea for this innovative tool.

The story began when Eric Jr. got into trouble at school for using ChatGPT to complete his assignments. At first, his dad was frustrated but quickly saw the potential in his son’s ingenuity. Eric Sr. decided to channel his son’s tech-savvy instincts into a constructive project: building an AI-powered tool that could address a widespread issue—greater access for people who want financial coaching.

“I’ve met thousands of people who want and need financial coaching, but they were limited by access. Then here’s my son tapping into cutting-edge technology with curiosity and ingenuity,” said Eric McLoyd, Sr. “He just needed a constructive way to channel it.”

The result is Coach Kai, a free financial coaching tool that merges Eric McLoyd Sr.’s 10,000+ hours of financial expertise with his son’s passion for technology. Built on Eric Sr.’s proven financial coaching approach, Coach Kai delivers goal-driven interactions designed to guide users step-by-step toward financial freedom. It also provides direct access to supportive financial lessons and other educational content.

“Our vision is to make financial coaching accessible for everyone,” explained Eric McLoyd, Jr.. “And while it’s exciting to launch this tool, the best part has been working with my dad. It has really taught me the power of turning challenges into opportunities.”

For the father, Coach Kai is more than just a financial tool—it’s a story of perseverance, innovation, and family. “So here we are, father and son, ready to share Kai with the world,” he added. “Who knows? Maybe this is the beginning of my son’s journey as a financial professional.”

Learn more about Coach Kai here.

This story was first reported by Blackbusiness.com

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

March 14, 2025

Struggling To Get Hired? This Proven Job Search Plan Will Change Everything!

Networking could lead to increased online and in person visibility

Written by Joyel Crawford

Hey Fairygodmentor,

I’ve applied to countless jobs but keep hitting a wall. How do I stay motivated and stand out in a competitive job market?
– Job Search Fatigue

Dear Job Search Fatigue,

First things first, you are not the problem! There are countless reasons why your applications may not be sticking, or you’re not getting callbacks. While it’s great to be accountable for the effort you put into applying, you can’t take responsibility for hiring decisions behind the scenes.

It took me 2.5 years to get a callback, and I worked in HR for two decades!

As always, I keep it real with my readers; today is no different. Here’s the deal—you’re going to have to (wait for it…) network.

Yes, a well-crafted resume is important, but the real game-changer is connecting with actual human beings. Networking could lead to increased onliincreasevisibility, open you up to new roles or opportunities, expand your circle of influence, and may even be the first step in gaining a mentor or sponsor. Networking gives you a competitive edge because it’s all about building relationships with the intention of collaboration and support. If your energy isn’t in the right place, the connections you make won’t be either.

Here’s a stat for you: 80% of jobs are filled through networking. So, if you’re serious about landing a job, it’s time to put yourself out there.

I’ve created an action plan to supercharge your job search.

YOUR JOB SEARCH ACTION PLAN

1. Go Job Window Shopping

You don’t have to apply for everything you see, but if a job excites you, go for it! Caution: Limit job searching to one hour a day to prevent burnout. Your energy is your most valuable resource, so protect it.

When reviewing jobs, shift your mindset from “Can I do this?” to “When have I done this?” Ensure your resume and cover letter answer that question, aligning with roles that best match your experience. Pro Tip: DO NOT LIE on your resume! No good ever comes from building any relationship on dishonesty.

2. Leverage LinkedIn Daily

• Job searching

• Reading and engaging with posts

• Following companies and industry leaders

• Reaching out to recruiters

• Joining relevant LinkedIn groups

Visibility is everything. Show up, engage, and make yourself virtually visible.

3. Virtual Networking Tips

• Connect with recruiters and stay in touch

• Ask connections for recommendations and endorsements

• Join professional groups and attend virtual events (try Meetup.com)

• Reach out to former colleagues from school or past jobs

• Engage on social media—commenting on industry leaders’ posts can open doors!

Most importantly, follow up consistently. A single message won’t cut it—relationships grow with ongoing interaction.

4. In-Person Networking: The Clock Strategy

If networking events make you want to crawl under a rock, try my Clock Strategy Approach to ease into it:

• Imagine the room as a giant clock. Where you’re standing is 6 o’clock. The group of people directly in front of you is at 12 o’clock. To your right? 3 o’clock. To your left? 9 o’clock.

• Focus on one group at a time instead of overwhelming yourself.

• Aim to talk to at least one person per “hour” group.

• Break the ice with: “Hi, my coach gave me this silly homework assignment to meet at least three people at this event. Can you be one of my three?”

At the very least, this will lighten the mood and start conversations in a room full of people who also would rather be anywhere else.

Check out Network After Work for event opportunities near you.

5. Boost Your LinkedIn Profile

• Reach out to at least one person a week for a skills endorsement or recommendation.

• Engage by commenting on posts from people you admire.

• True story: I landed a gig simply by commenting on a post! A client liked my insight and reached out to offer me a contract. Visibility works.

6. Create a Job Search Schedule

Time and energy management are key. Dedicate different days to different tasks. For example:

• Sunday – Job searching

• Monday – Resume & cover letter updates

• Tuesday – Networking

• Wednesday – Skills building & learning

This prevents you from being overwhelmed and helps you stay focused and productive rather than trying to boil the ocean all at once.

Cut yourself some slack, Job Search Fatigue. You will find the right job at the right time. Keep showing up for yourself.

You got this!

Yours truly,

Your Fairygodmentor®

About Joyel Crawford:

Joyel Crawford is an award-winning career and leadership development professional and founder of Crawford Leadership Strategies, a consultancy that empowers results-driven leaders through coaching, training, and facilitation. She’s the best-selling author of Show Your Ask: Using Your Voice to Advocate for Yourself and Your Career.

Have a question for Your Fairygodmentor®?

Submit your career and leadership questions, whether it’s about navigating a micromanager, setting boundaries, negotiating for a raise, or handling burnout. Ask Your Fairygodmentor® today!

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 14, 2025

Experian Enlists Flau’jae Johnson In Louisiana $5M Consumer Debt Campaign

LSU star Flau'jae Johnson is working with Experian to ease the debt burden faced by Louisiana residents.

LSU basketball star and rapper Flau’jae Johnson has partnered with Experian to promote financial empowerment in Louisiana.

On March 10, Experian announced a $5 million consumer debt relief initiative benefiting 5,000 families in Louisiana as part of its commitment to improving financial health. Johnson, a junior business major, will promote financial literacy by sharing her experience managing finances as one of the top collegiate athletes with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.

According to Sportskeeda, Johnson’s NIL value was roughly $1.4 million in Oct. 2024.

The initiative is timely as NCAA Basketball Tournament beginning in days. Experian will erase an additional $100,000 in consumer debt for every LSU victory, up to a total of $500,000.

“It’s hard to create a winning financial game plan when you are blocked by debt,” Johnson said in a press release. “I am excited to partner with Experian to empower families in the state and across the country so they can become financial champions of their future.”

The initiative was launched in response to reports showing consumer debt at an all-time high. Experian partnered with ForgiveCo, a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC), to acquire and cancel qualifying consumer debt for selected beneficiaries in Louisiana—one of the states with the highest poverty rates, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Additionally, beneficiaries will receive a free one-year premium Experian membership, providing access to their Experian credit report, FICO Score, credit monitoring with all three bureaus, CreditLock, and assistance with canceling subscriptions and negotiating lower bills.

“Unmanageable debt prevents consumers from achieving their goals,” said Dacy Yee, president of Experian Consumer Services at Experian. “…We hope this debt relief and access to Experian tools will help beneficiaries in Louisiana move toward a healthier financial future.”

‘I Couldn’t Believe It’: Tyler Perry Pays Off Nashville Woman’s Mortgage

by Stacy Jackson

March 14, 2025

‘I Couldn’t Believe It’: Tyler Perry Pays Off Nashville Woman’s Mortgage

Perry offered to pay off the woman's mortgage after he heard her story. Now her home is almost renovated.

Film mogul Tyler Perry came through and paid off the mortgage for 85-year-old Nashville resident Anniece Tisdale, who was left homeless in December 2024 after a delay on a home renovation took a toll on her family’s finances.

In a February 26 appearance on the Sherri daytime talk show, Tisdale explained that she was determined to renovate her dream home for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. However, a contractor failed to complete the project, which WSMV reported caused the family to lose thousands of dollars.

“Tyler Perry is going to pay off your mortgage,” Sherri Shepherd told Tisdale and her daughter during their episode. Both women were overwhelmed with joy after Shepherd told them Perry heard about the family’s situation and that the actor wanted to “take that financial burden off” of the elderly woman.

“I couldn’t believe it,” Tisdale said WSMV about the surprise gift. “From you coming to interview me, they saw it on the news.” The station first shared the woman’s story in December, which garnered public attention. “They went through news clips and picked it out.”

Tisdale lived in her Nashville home for over 24 years before one of her daughters signed a $200,000 contract in January 2024 with the “unlicensed” contractor.

An initial completion date of May 31, 2024, was agreed upon for the renovation. However, the contract was terminated in Oct. 2024 after the contractor was not able to complete the renovation within the agreed timeframe. Tisdale, who has a prosthetic leg, couldn’t enter her home due to the dangerous state of the unfinished home.

Tisdale said one of her daughters, who died years ago from a heart attack, “was watching over me with Tyler and helped him bless” her with the mortgage gift. Her daughter died the same night she accompanied her to a Tyler Perry play at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center more than a decade ago.

The home renovation is nearly complete, and thanks to Perry’s support with the mortgage payment, the family’s spot looks “brand-new.” The woman said her home is always open for family and anybody who wants to come through.

“It is just something I am going to enjoy for the rest of my life.”

To show their gratitude, the family is giving money that would have been used on their mortgage to Habitat for Humanity.

Georgia, teacher, North Carolina, viral, colored, Black History Month

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 14, 2025

Advocates Seek Justice For Black Students In London Deemed ‘Educationally Subnormal’ In The ’60s, ’70s

Advocates are calling for justice for the period when Black children in London were unjustly labeled as "educationally subnormal."

The Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside in London, England, has joined survivors and advocates in calling for a public inquiry into past cases where Black children were wrongly classified as “educationally subnormal” and placed in schools for children with physical and mental disabilities.

Kim Johnson, the Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside, spoke at a March 12 debate. The Guardian reports that she urged Keir Starmer to seek justice for survivors and shed light on the long-term impact of the practice within the education system. Johnson expressed concern that the full extent of how many Black children were wrongly placed in “educationally subnormal” (ESN) schools during the 1960s and ’70s remains unknown, with many receiving little to no support from the system.

“Many racist barriers still exist in education,” Johnson said, adding that the barriers have “evolved directly from the policies and attitudes that drove the ESN scandal.”

“The closure of ESN schools in the 1980s directly led to a rapid expansion in the use of school exclusions, and we began to see higher numbers incarcerated in prisons,” she explained. “The expansion of the use of set and tiering in education whereby certain groups of children [in] increasing numbers are being denied the opportunity to sit exams at certain levels and then denied the opportunity to progress in educational settings, including going to university.”

Survivors, campaigners, lawyers, educational experts, and psychologists shared their testimonies in Parliament the day before the debate and detailed how the “systematic failure” impacted them or the lives of Black children in different ways. Among those who testified include Noel Gordon, who was just six years old when an education department official visited his home and told his mother that he was a “dunce.”

“What he was alluding to, they were placing me in a school for subnormal children; with no curriculum. This was government policy,” Gordon said.

“They put two of my older brothers in the local special school. I suffered a catalog of abuse from the age of six to 16. I was beaten over the head at 12 in the playground and called a Black bastard by Christine, a member of staff, for no reason.”

Rene Stephens, 58, a survivor, broke down in tears as he recounted the physical and sexual abuse he endured within the education system and the lack of support. Denise Davidson recalled being placed in a school alongside children who wore baby bibs or relied on wheelchairs—a stark contrast to the educational environment she was accustomed to in her native Jamaica.

When Davidson’s mother tried to organize her transfer to a more comprehensive school, one educator referred to the child as a “cretin.”

“I remember my parents returning home and my dad finding a dictionary and looking up the word cretin,” Davidson recalled. “My mum was sobbing at this point because she thought I had some disease.”

She continued attending the school alongside her classmates, many of whom were disabled.

“The same fundamental systems that excluded Black children from mainstream education decades ago still exist today -– just in different forms,” Johnson said at the debate. “ESN schools may have gone, but Black children are still disproportionately pushed into pupil referral units and alternative provision, feeding into the school-to-prison pipeline.”

Catherine McKinnell, the education minister, stated that while the government has no plans to hold a public inquiry, they are open to hearing from survivors and advocates. She emphasized, “Britain is a country that will respect your contribution and give you a fair chance to succeed in life.”

Woman Enters Guilty Plea In Cross-Burning Hoax Targeting Colorado Springs’ 1st Black Mayor

by Sharelle B. McNair

March 14, 2025

Woman Enters Guilty Plea In Cross-Burning Hoax Targeting Colorado Springs’ 1st Black Mayor

Prosecutors stated that a picture and video of the cross burning were sent to media and civic organizations to project an attack on Mobolade.

One of three women charged with setting a cross on fire in front of a campaign sign to help the campaign of a mayoral candidate has entered a guilty plea, the Associated Press reports.

In a federal court in Denver, Deanna West pleaded guilty after being involved in the April 2023 incident and was charged with one count of being part of a conspiracy to set the fire and participate in a faux smear campaign targeting the election of now-Colorado Springs(CO) Mayor Yemi Mobolade.

Prosecutors say a picture and video of the cross burning were sent to media and civic organizations to project an attack on Mobolade.

The plea agreement, which dropped an additional charge related to setting the fire, stated that the goal of the plan was to interfere in Mobolade’s opponent’s campaign and attempt to create the narrative that the independent candidate was being discouraged from running because he was Black.

West agreed to the conspiracy plan with Derrick Bernard, who offered her employment and housing in exchange.

According to the Colorado Springs Gazette, attorneys for Bernard and the third assailant, Ashley Blackcloud, argued for the charges to be dismissed since the allegations were protected by free speech. They also pushed that the cross-burning was a way to help Mobolade win by generating outrage.

Mobolade was elected in May 2023, the first Black and immigrant mayor of Colorado Springs after close to 40 years of Republican-elected mayors. He received backlash for communicating with Bernard, according to the indictment.

In a Facebook message, Bernard allegedly told Mobolade that he was “mobilizing my squadron in defense and for the final push. Black ops style, big brother. The klan cannot be allowed to run this city again.”

Mobolade was then accused of speaking with Bernard for about five minutes on the phone three days after the cross-burning.

The mayor has denied having any knowledge or involvement in the crime and revealed a letter from the U.S. Department of Justice that identified him as a victim during the investigation into the cross burning.

Golden Krust Marks 35 Years With Island Select Launch At Walmart

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 13, 2025

Golden Krust Marks 35 Years With Island Select Launch At Walmart

Golden Krust is expanding into Walmart's nationwide with two new signature patty flavors.

Golden Krust is bringing its signature Caribbean flavors to more customers nationwide with the exclusive launch of Golden Krust Island Select at Walmart.

More than 35 years after opening its first brick-and-mortar location in The Bronx, New York, Golden Krust has launched its Island Select line exclusively at 1,600 Walmart® locations nationwide. The Island Select line debuts with two new retail Jamaican patty varieties: Strawberry & Cream Cheese and Vegetable –alongside a bold new packaging redesign to reinforce the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Designed to delight newcomers to the Golden Krust brand, the Strawberry & Cream Cheese Patty offers a sweet and creamy take on the classic Jamaican beef patty. Featuring real strawberries and smooth cream cheese inside a crispy, golden crust, it’s a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert—especially when paired with vanilla ice cream.

Golden Krust Island Select Strawberry and Cream Cheese/Courtesy of Golden Krust

The Vegetable Patty offers a hearty blend of cabbage, corn, green beans, carrots, broccoli, and onions, seasoned with Caribbean herbs and spices like garlic, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Place it in the air fryer at 360 degrees for about 16 minutes, and you have the perfectly crisp patty ready to be enjoyed.

“We’ve been with Walmart now for over 10 years, and they were looking for a specific line that spoke to our core demographic and also a new demographic for our Jamaican-style patties.” Steven Clarke, Golden Krust’s Vice President of Marketing, tells BLACK ENTERPRISE.

After analyzing Walmart’s data, Golden Krust set out to develop something fresh and inventive.

“Everything kind of signaled the fact that we needed to expand the product line to something fruit-filled, which is probably the biggest innovation in the Island Select line is our new strawberry and cream cheese patty,” Clarke said. “I think it’s the first fruit-filled patty on the market.”

The new Island Select line of patties culminates Golden Krust’s ongoing partnership with Walmart, which has continued to grow since the Carribean bakery was first commissioned by the mega-retailer.

“Walmart saw the success with the spicy beef, mild beef, and jerk chicken,” Clarke shared. “We appreciate the partnership that we’ve been able to secure and nurture with the buying team at Walmart.”

Clarke grew up immersed in the Golden Krust brand. His uncle, the late Lowell Hawthorne, founded the company in 1989, starting with a single shop in The Bronx. Golden Krust has always been a family-run business, with Clarke’s parents owning three locations where he worked and assisted with operations throughout his youth.

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As an adult, he climbed the ranks from operations manager to Vice President of Marketing for his family’s company. Watching his uncle’s vision grow from one restaurant to over 100 franchise and company-owned locations across eight states—with plans for westward expansion and products in major retailers nationwide—highlights the enduring appeal of Golden Krust’s signature flavors, delicious patties, and loyal customer base.

“To see where it has come from since I was a teenager, to now, I’m definitely proud of the brand and the continued growth that we’re able to generate,” Clarke said. “We are very fortunate to do this expansion and going into 1,600 Walmarts in over 30 states.”

Golden Krust Island Select is available at 1,600 Walmart locations nationwide, including Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Texas, and more. In addition to Walmart and beyond its restaurants, Golden Krust’s retail division supplies frozen Jamaican patties and island-style baked goods to more than 22,000 retail locations, including ShopRite, Publix, and Target.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 13, 2025

Gene Deal Alleges Diddy Is Orchestrating The Sale Of The Notorious B.I.G.’s Publishing

'...It ain't for Ms. Wallace. It ain't for Big's kids.'

According to Diddy’s former bodyguard, individuals have reportedly been appointed to oversee the sale of The Notorious B.I.G.’s music publishing, and the deal may not be in the best interest of the late rapper’s children.

Gene Deal sat down with The Art of Dialogue, where he claimed that Sean “Diddy” Comb worked with Wayne Barrow and Mark Pitts to sell Biggie’s publishing while his mother, Voletta, was sick in hospice.

“Knowing this lady was sick and she was in a hospice, these guys, Wayne Barrow, and Mark Pitts, went on and started working out deals to allegedly sell Big’s publishing, his marketing, all his rights to everything,” Deal explained.

“They are working out a deal for them because it ain’t for Ms. Wallace. It ain’t for Big’s kids,” he added. “The executives of that is Wayne Barrow and Mark Pitts. Those are the dudes that Puff put in the play. I can’t believe this. These are the dudes that, when Big died, they took over the marketing and the publishing and everything.”

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Deal claims the deal could be worth over $150 million, and those involved haven’t made any mention of Biggie’s kids or widow, Faith Evans.

“They didn’t say nothing about Big’s kid, CJ, Tatiana, or they didn’t say nothing about Faith. But they about to get paid,” he said.

Deal also claimed that Biggie’s mother never “trusted” Diddy and would avoid him at events as she “knew he might have had something to do with her son’s death.”

“And now she’s taking it to her grave. It’s sad. And these dudes are about to get paid from that, from sticking around,” Deal said.

Alaila Everett , baton, I.C. Norcom High School, high school, track, runner

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 13, 2025

High School Runner Charged With Assault Following Alleged Baton Attack At Track Meet

The high school runner who went viral after striking an opponent in the head with a baton has been charged with assault.

The Virginia high school track and field runner who hit an opponent in the head with a baton has been charged with misdemeanor assault.

I.C. Norcom High School senior Alaila Everett is being charged with one count of assault and battery. The charges come one week after an incident during the 4×200-meter relay at the March 4 state championship, where her baton struck Brookville High School junior Kaelen Tucker in the head.

Everett insists the incident was accidental, but many who have seen the now-viral video believe otherwise. The widespread attention from the footage has resulted in harassment and death threats against her.

“She was touching me to the point where I was pumping my arm, and the baton was hitting her arm,” Everett said. “I lose my balance—my whole body turns, and then I pump my arms, so she got hit.”

“I would never do that on purpose,” Everett told Good Morning America. “That’s not in my character.”

JUST IN: Track runner Alaila Everett charged with assault & battery after hitting a runner in the head with a baton at a track meet.

Everett claims her hand simply slipped which resulted in the other runner Kaelen Tucker, getting a concussion & possibly fractured skull.

The… pic.twitter.com/SwY8T6tomx
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) March 13, 2025

Tucker was diagnosed with a concussion, and her parents claim Everett never checked on their daughter or inquired about her well-being, even after the race had ended. However, Everett says that when she tried to reach out to Tucker on social media to apologize, she learned she was blocked.

The high school teen has spoken out against the backlash she is receiving online from people who think she purposefully attacked Tucker.

“I can admit from the video it does look purposeful, but I know my intentions and I would never hit somebody on purpose because of jealousy,” Everett said.

The Portsmouth NAACP also released a statement defending Everett from the online scrutiny and media attention.

“Alaila is NOT AN ATTACKER and media headlines that allude towards that in any way is shameful,” the statement said. “We understand the sensitivity of the circumstances for both athletes and their families involved, but this narrative must not go unaddressed.”

The statement continued.

“Alaila is an honor student and a star athlete at the historic I.C. Norcom High School. From all accounts, she is an exceptional young leader and scholar whose athletic talent has been well-documented and recognized across our state. She has carried herself with integrity both on and off the field, and any narrative that adjudicates her guilty of any criminal activity is a violation of her due process rights.”