Akon, Jeffree Star — (Photo: Shane Anthony Sinclair/Getty Images)

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 29, 2025

One Of Akon’s 9 Wives Sues Publix Super Markets After A Staffer Allegedly Sexually ‘Violated’ Her

Akon's wife is suing Publix over a male staffer who sexually "violated" her at self checkout.

One of the nine wives of Grammy-winning singer Akon is suing Publix Super Markets over a former employee who sexually assaulted her.

Newly uncovered court documents detail a lawsuit tied to a September 2022 incident at a Publix in Roswell, Georgia, AllHipHop reports. Akon’s wife, Amirah Iman-Thiam, alleges that a confrontation with store clerk Jonathan Ross left her emotionally distressed, forcing her to cancel a 12-city European tour, resulting in $287,000 in lost fees and derailing planned collaborations with Grammy-winning producers.

“My creativity’s gone,” Iman-Thiam told her therapist.

She has been resorting to Instacart deliveries and $150 an hour security when running essential errands after Ross touched her buttocks and vaginal area while she was scanning groceries at the self-checkout station, the lawsuit states.

“That dress got me rethinking my lunch break,” Ross allegedly told Iman-Thiam before touching her inappropriately.

The store manager later acknowledged that Ross had displayed erratic behavior for months but was still allowed to interact with customers unsupervised. Bodycam footage captured Iman-Thiam visibly shaken, her voice trembling as she spoke with responding officers.

“He just… violated me,” she told officers.

The court filing details how the incident “severely impacted” Iman-Thiam’s personal and professional life, citing the trauma that led her to cancel a global tour projected to earn $4 million. It also notes that, due to her religious beliefs, she underwent a spiritual cleansing following the encounter.

“Ms. lman-Thiam is the wife of famed singer and producer Aliaune Damala Badara Akon Thiam (‘Akon’). She is a rising recording artist and rapper with Konvict Muzik,” the lawsuit states.

“As a result of Publix’s negligence, Ms. lman-Thiam also suffered from serious emotional and physical trauma. Ms. Iman-Thiam and her husband are devout Muslims. Culturally, Muslim women are forbidden to receive physical, sexual contact from anyone who is not their spouse. This is a strict prohibition in the Islamic faith.”

The filing continued. “In light of the sexual battery, Ms. Iman-Thiam was required to seek cleansing and therapy from an Imam (a priest) in Senegal (which is her husband’s home country). For approximately one (1) year, she was required to pray six (6) times a day and engage in cleansing and purification rituals until she was fully cleansed as prescribed in the Islamic faith. Consequently, Ms. Iman-Thiam’s tour had to be canceled.”

Publix has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that Ross acted outside the scope of his employment. However, Iman-Thiam’s legal team pushed back, pointing to the lack of sexual harassment protocols for frontline employees, despite there being 19 similar incidents reported across the state since 2020.

Akon’s wife is seeking punitive damages for emotional distress and reputational harm, with her attorneys arguing that the company prioritized profit over proper background checks.

Masters, Megan Thee Stallion, Adin Ross — Megan Thee Stallion at the 2023 Video Music Awards. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images for MTV)

by Kandiss Edwards

May 29, 2025

Megan Thee Stallion Launches ‘Hot Girl Summer’ Swimwear For All Hotties

“Everyone knows I love being near a pool or a beach, so I finally decided to turn my passion into a business and create my own swimwear brand,” Megan said in a press release.

Megan Thee Stallion is getting the girls ready for summer with the launch of her new affordable swimwear line.

The Grammy-winning rapper’s new line, Hot Girl Summer, is hitting Walmart’s all across the nation exclusively. The singer’s collection boasts inclusive styles: bikinis, full coverage and coverups. The prices are priced from $16 and $28, Rolling Stone reported.

“Everyone knows I love being near a pool or a beach, so I finally decided to turn my passion into a business and create my own swimwear brand,” Megan said in a press release. “It was only right that we kick off Hot Girl Summer with this launch and provide Hotties of all body types with the official Hot Girl uniform. I used to shop at Walmart growing up, so it’s a full circle to have my own line available at Walmart, and I’m so grateful for their support.”

The Hot Girl Summer collection emphasizes body positivity and aims to serve a diverse range of body types. Each piece is designed with comfort and versatility in mind.

The line includes 18 different silhouettes. Standout pieces include the Hot Girl Summer purple one-piece.

https://twitter.com/theestallion/status/1922754694524322153

Hot Girl Swimwear also features a metallic one-piece with cut-out detailing.

https://twitter.com/theestallion/status/1925243071177871832

“At Walmart, we want our customers to feel confident by offering fashion that celebrates their individuality and unique style,” Ryan Waymire, Walmart’s senior vice president, said. “Summer is around the corner, and swimming is a key category during the season. Megan embodies confidence and authenticity, and we’re excited to collaborate with her on an exclusive swim collection.”

The Hot Girl Summer swimwear line is available now online at Walmart’s website. As the first female rapper to grace the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue cover, this latest step from Megan is a no-brainer.

give, donation, coins, investment, cash — Photo by Nora Carol Photography/Getty Images

by Jameelah Mullen

May 29, 2025

As The U.S. Treasury Ends Penny Production, Here’s What You Can Do With Your Spare Change

It's the end of an era.

The penny will soon be a thing of the past. The U.S. Treasury will soon stop minting the coin in early 2026. The decision comes amid rising production costs and declining consumer use. According to CoinNews.net, it costs nearly four cents to produce a penny.

The phaseout of the penny leaves many Americans wondering what to do with the copper coins in their piggy banks.

The penny will continue to be accepted at any retailer that takes cash. However, experts encourage Americans to examine their coins more closely before spending them, as some of them are worth more than one cent.

Resources like ”The 2026 Red Book: A Guide Book of United States Coins” can help consumers determine the value of their coins. At USCoinsValue.com, coin collectors can look up a penny by its year, mint mark, and condition. However, experts caution that it’s unlikely that you will become wealthy from your penny collection.

“Outside of a few variations that are in low supply…most will be worth just a tad more than their original value, Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek.

Consumers can exchange their pennies for cash at banks or kiosks such as Coinstar, which are usually located in grocery stores, according to the Federal Reserve. Coinstar, the machine, converts $3 billion in coins into spendable cash daily. The average jar of change yields $58.

Aside from their monetary value, pennies, according to Gardenstead, act as a natural fungicide. Planting pennies close to the stem of your tomato plant can help reduce blight, a fungus common in garden vegetables. To prolong the life of fresh flowers, drop a penny into your vase, as it helps keep plant-rotting bacteria at bay.

Larry Hoover, gov. Pritzker — photo credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Hoover

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 29, 2025

It Was ‘Big Meech,’ Now It’s ‘Larry Hoover’: Gangster Disciples Founder’ Federal Life Sentence Commuted By Trump

Larry Hoover gets his six federal life sentences commuted by Donald Trump.

Gangster Disciples Founder Larry Hoover has been granted clemency by President Donald Trump for his six federal life sentences.

Hoover’s attorney, Jennifer Bonjean, confirmed the commuted sentence on May 28, ABC7 reports. While Hoover was granted federal clemency from Trump, he will remain in prison to serve a 200-year state sentence for a 1973 murder in Chicago, unless Gov. JB Pritzker grants him clemency.

His wife and son have expressed their gratitude for the commutation, with Larry Hoover Jr. highlighting his father’s rehabilitation and advocating for his full release.

“It’s overwhelming,” wife Winndye Hoover said. “It’s a long time coming, and we just want to hope it go all the way through.”

“He deserves redemption,” son Larry Hoover Jr. said. “He deserves a second chance at being a part of this community, and he can be a benefit to this community if they want him to be a benefit to this community.”

Once labeled by a judge as one of Illinois’ most notorious criminals, Hoover has been serving a life sentence at a Colorado prison. He was initially convicted of a 1973 murder in Chicago and later found guilty on multiple federal charges. While incarcerated, federal prosecutors alleged Hoover continued leading the Gangster Disciples, orchestrating murders, beatings, and drug trafficking from behind bars. In 1997, he received six life sentences for those crimes.

In recent years, Hoover’s attorney has argued that the now-74-year-old has been rehabilitated. However, Ron Safer, the lead federal prosecutor in Hoover’s 1997 case, expressed disappointment over the clemency decision.

“I believe in redemption. I believe in rehabilitation. I believe in mercy. There are some crimes that are so heinous, so notorious, that they’re not deserving of mercy,” Safer said. “If Larry Hoover said there was going to be a killing, there was a killing.”

Hoover’s clemency was part of a wave of pardons and commutations issued by Trump this week, including high-profile names like rapper NBA YoungBoy, reality stars Todd and Julie Chrisley, and Death Row Records co-founder Michael Harris.

Resume, job interview, Office of Personnel Management, federal workforce — (Photo: Alex Green/Pexels)

by Sharelle B. McNair

May 29, 2025

Is It Bye-Bye To Degree Requirements As More Employers Explore Experience Over Education?

The survey found 84% of 1,000 participating hiring managers said removing degree requirements has been a positive on their end.

In a survey, one in four hiring managers suggested they would be removing bachelor’s degree requirements for certain roles by the end of 2025, HR Dive reports.

In the survey conducted by Resume Templates, 84% of 1,000 participating hiring managers said removing degree requirements has been a positive on their end, reporting an uptick in applications and a more diverse applicant pool in addition to having the ability to offer lower salaries. Julia Toothacre, Resume Templates’ chief career strategist, says it’s a win-win situation for both the employer and the candidate. “Over the last five years, we’ve seen large organizations drop degree requirements in favor of certifications or experience, and now others are following suit,” Toothacre said.

“For employers, it expands the talent pool and generates positive PR. For candidates, it opens doors for those who can’t afford a degree or choose a different path. These jobs have the potential to lift people out of poverty.”

While half of the hiring managers allege that many of their roles will keep the educational standard, some of the eliminated degree requirements vary depending on the role level. For example, two-thirds of employers dumped the requirements for entry-level roles, 54% for mid-level roles, and 23% for senior-level roles. Only 1% of employers claim that no roles have degree requirements.

Experts in the human resources field are not shocked by the new narrative, as major corporations like IBM, Google, and Apple have highlighted the desire for skill sets over education when it comes to eligible candidates. According to Success.com, there are few industries where the attended school still holds weight.

The narrative of what can be done matters more than where you went to school doesn’t sit the same in the medical, legal, and engineering professions; there is still a demand for accredited degrees, certifications, and a certain number of years of training. It’s all about having legal and ethical requirements for these worlds.

In industries like marketing and business, degrees open doors, but having experience, internships, and a well-defined digital footprint sets a higher precedent.

The study findings are supported by leaders of states like California and Michigan. The Golden State’s Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a plan to launch “career passports” to encourage job access and reduce the pressure of obtaining a degree. The tool will combine academic records, work experience, military service (if applicable), and training programs for hiring purposes.

In Michigan, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s focus is on men with an initiative called Sixty by 30. The program will expand the reach for access to college and skills training for men to close gender gaps in education. The goal is to increase the percentage of residents with a degree or certificate to 60% by 2030.

Hiring managers, 42% of them, are encouraging the incoming working Generation Z class to prioritize job experience over having a degree — given the field the candidate is interested in. Managers highlight practical skills correlated to artificial intelligence tools, and basic skills, such as strong interpersonal and communication skills, are important when resumes hit their desks.

Lil Wayne, Travis Hunter, sports agent, football. NFL — (Photo: Creative Commons via Wikimedia Commons)

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

May 29, 2025

Ma$e And Cam’ron React To Travis Hunter Not Signing Prenup Agreement

The Jacksonville Jaguars rookie recently married Leanna Lenee.

Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter recently married his longtime girlfriend, Leanna Lenee. It was a happy occasion, but rappers turned sports analysts Cam’ron and Ma$e objected to Hunter not having a prenuptial agreement in place on their popular podcast, It Is What It Is.

In recent months, there has been discourse regarding how Lenee has, according to critics, publicly embarrassed Hunter on social media and at public events.

Hunter has defended her as nay-sayers claimed she was only with him due to his status as a football star. Hunter, the number two overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, also won the Heisman Trophy at Colorado last year.

Now that news has emerged that the pair married without a prenup, people are stunned. That includes Cam and Ma$e.

“I’ma sit this one out,” Ma$e said during a recent episode. “I think when it comes to the young lady, she does have, like, different things that have transpired. For me, as a dad, if that was my son, I would definitely be concerned. I think there’s other ways you could protect his assets, but I definitely would think he should look in the direction of protecting his assets, maybe not with a prenup, but there’s other things you could do these days.”

Cam’ron added, “Do what you want, Travis, that’s up to you. I’m signing a prenup unless shorty getting as much money as I get or more than me. If you’re not getting more than me, you have to sign a prenup. It just works like that for me.”

Let’s hope the two never divorce, so it wouldn’t matter if anything was signed. Good luck to the newlyweds, who should probably avoid social media whenever possible.

Jamaica,, gas station, $243,,000 — Photo by Ingo Joseph: https://www.pexels.com/photo/silver-and-yellow-fuel-pump-188024/

by Kandiss Edwards

May 29, 2025

Gas Station Attendant Jacks $243,000 From Customer’s Credit Card In Jamaica

Alisa Morris admitted to stealing J$243,000 from the credit card of a gas station customer. Morris ordered to pay restitution.

A Jamaican gas station pump attendant was charged with theft.

Alisa Morris admitted to stealing J$243,000 from a gas station customer’s credit card. Morris appeared in St. Andrew Parish court on May 27, in Kingston, the Jamaican Observer reported.

According to reports, the fraudulent withdrawals from the customer’s account occurred over two days, from Dec. 9, 2024, to Dec. 11, 2024. The National Commercial Bank held the account.

The customer first filed the complaint after patronizing the Kingston gas station. As is customary, the customer handed over their debit card from NCB for payment. Unfortunately, the customer forgot to retrieve their debit card, and consequently, Morris was given access to the customer’s funds for a full day. Within that time, the gas attendant amassed multiple transactions. The gas station patron was made aware of the purchases via transaction alerts.

Morris was given bail and secured new employment at a fast-food restaurant. From the time of her new employment, she accrued J$50,000. She told the court she would be applying the funds toward restitution.

The convicted criminal will remain out of jail and continue to reimburse the unnamed customer.

According to the Jamaican Observer, “The court has ordered the funds be returned in 3 installments: J$50,000 by June 13, J$100,000 by June 27, and J$78,000 by July 15, 2025.”

The judge extended Morris’s bail under the condition that she reports to the Kingston Central Police Station every Wednesday and Saturday between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

While this customer will see a restorative resolution, not all Kington residents are so fortunate. The popular travel destination is reportedly plagued by theft, among other crimes. The city ranked third on Travel Safe’s list of the most dangerous destinations in Jamaica. Yet, the country profited $4.3 billion in tourism revenue in 2024. The figure far surpasses previous statistics, according to the Jamaican Information Service.

However, future tourists may want to reconsider the country as a getaway location. The U.S. Department of State lists the area at a “Level 3” location. The Level 3 designation advises travelers to “reconsider” their travel plans due to crime.

TINY HOMES,, OKLAHOMA,, ADU — Photo by Ava Jung: https://www.pexels.com/photo/modern-summer-houses-20513335/

by Jameelah Mullen

May 29, 2025

It’s Now Legal To Build A Tiny Home In Your Backyard In Oklahoma City

The mother-in-law suite is back.

Oklahoma City homeowners now have a new way to maximize their property value. The city has recently approved an ordinance that allows homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on single-family lots in designated areas of the city. Also known as granny flats, homeowners often convert garages or small backyard houses into small apartments. Community leaders and real estate professionals praised the ruling, which passed on Tuesday, May 20.

“This is about empowering people to make maximum use of their own property,” Pennington said. “We know it doesn’t solve the affordable housing crisis in this country or in this city, but it does get us one step closer to better accessible housing for the public in this community,” Oklahoma City Councilman Camal Pennington told The Journal Record.

Pennignton, who serves as a member of the Oklahoma City Planning Commission, helped to create the ordinance.

Vanessa Johnson, President of the Oklahoma City Metro Association of Realtors (OKCMAR), said the ruling will give homeowners more control over their properties. Johnson noted that since ADUs are more affordable than traditional apartment rentals, they can offer a practical solution for college students and aging parents, generating additional income to support generational wealth. Johnson noted that Oklahoma City needs 45,000 additional housing units to meet current demand, and ADUs will help bridge the gap.

Some local homeowners oppose the ordinance due to concerns that investors will purchase houses and build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to profit from rental income. These residents have requested an amendment requiring property owners who don’t live on-site to participate in a public hearing.

Many states permit ADUs, but laws can vary significantly depending on local city and county regulations. Some of the most ADU-friendly states are California, Oregon, Maine, Connecticut, Washington, and New York. The state of New York has addressed its housing shortage by encouraging homeowners to build ADUs through its Plus One ADU program. The program offers incentives, including construction grants and low- or no-interest loans.

Michael Sumler — Foto: Andreas Lawen, Fotandi

by Kandiss Edwards

May 29, 2025

Kool & The Gang’s Mike Sumler Dies In Car Crash At 71

Sumler's passing left friends and colleagues shocked

Michael Sumler, known as “Chicago Mike,” a longtime member of the legendary R&B and funk band Kool & the Gang, died at age 71 in a car crash on May 25. According to Cobb County Police, Sumler’s vehicle collided with another car in Mableton, Georgia, around 11:35 p.m. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The other driver was unharmed, People reported.

Kool & the Gang released a statement honoring Sumler and his time in the group.

“We’re deeply saddened to hear about the passing of our longtime wardrobe valet, Mike Sumler. Mike worked alongside Kool & the Gang from 2000-2015, making sure the guys looked their best on stage every night.”

“He also enthused the crowd with his energy and dance moves. Most recently, Mike helped Kool with LeKool champagne events,” the statement continued. “Everyone here at Kool & the Gang has fond memories of Mike and will miss him. May he rest in peace.”

We’re deeply saddened to hear about the passing of our longtime wardrobe valet, Mike Sumler. Mike worked alongside Kool & the Gang from 2000-2015, making sure the guys looked their best on stage every night. He also hyped the crowd with his energy and dance moves at the
show.
— Kool & the Gang (@KoolntheGngLIVE) May 29, 2025

Sumler’s role with the group varied over the years. As a stylist and choreographer, he made sure the band’s stage presentation was top-tier. Furthermore, Sumler also functioned as the group’s hype man and sometimes backing vocalist.

Sumler’s passing left friends and colleagues shocked. Music industry veterans have spoken out about the joy, energy, and professionalism of the septuagenarian over the decades.

Adrian Meeks, president of Song Source Music Group, recalled the energy that Sumler possessed, stating he, “just radiated something special.”

Mayor Michael Owens of the city of Mableton posted on Facebook stating, “The city of Mableton, City Council and I join his family, friends and fans in mourning his loss.”

Kool & the Gang, formed in 1964, is celebrated for hits like “Celebration,” “Ladies’ Night,” and “Jungle Boogie.” The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2024 and continues to perform worldwide.

Unfortunately, Sumler’s passing marks another loss for the band, following the death of drummer George Brown in 2023. Robert “Kool” Bell remains the only surviving founding member.