• Politics

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

March 14, 2025

Shyne To Return To Civilian Life After Losing Re-Election Bid In Belize

'The people have spoken here.'

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Former Bad Boy Records rapper Shyne, now a politician in his native Belize, lost the latest election and will step down, conceding to the person who unseated him.

According to Channel 5 Belize, Moses Barrow, better known as Shyne, has been defeated in his bid to be re-elected as the Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives and the leader of the Belize United Democratic Party. He conceded to Lee Mark Chang, who is also in the United Democratic Party.

The “Bad Boyz” lyricist said, “The people have spoken; congratulations to Lee Mark Chang—he’s now the new area representative of Mesopotamia, and I wish him well. I was confident; that was the interaction I was having with the people, but they made a decision to go in another direction, and I respect that.”

Shyne received only 318 votes, while 601 people voted for Chang. Shyne did not even get the second-most votes, as the People’s United Party’s candidate, Lawrence Ellis, got 503, placing Shyne in third place. The election, which took place March 12, revealed that 1,422 people placed a ballot out of 2,253 registered voters.

This election was historic, as Chang became the first Belizean-Chinese to secure a seat in the House of Representatives.

The former rapper promised he would resign once a new leader was elected.

“I certainly will resign effective once we have a national convention to elect a new leader. Obviously, you can’t be a leader of the United Democratic Party once you’re not a member of the House, and I would not want to be appointed as a senator or anything to hold on to the leadership.”

“The people have spoken here.”

After Shyne’s incarceration for being involved in a New York City shooting at Club New York with Sean “Diddy” Combs, he was deported back to Belize where he followed in his father, Dean Barrow’s, footsteps to become a politician. The elder Barrow served as deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs from 1993 until 1998 and was the then-leader of the opposition from 1998 until the United Democratic Party (UDP) won the election in February 2008.

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• News

by Kandiss Edwards

March 14, 2025

Girl Scouts Denies Rumors About Toxic Cookies Amid Lawsuit

The Girl Scouts assures consumers the chemicals in its cookies are naturally occurring.

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The Girl Scouts of America is responding to rumors about the safety of its cookies. The statement comes amid the filing of a class-action lawsuit. 

The controversy began during a nationwide recall of Las Ollas Botana Mix Snacks due to “undisclosed” allergens. The claims inadvertently linked the Girl Scouts to the toxic cookie scandal. In response, the organization issued a statement reassuring consumers about the safety of its products.

ABC reported that the unnamed plaintiff filed the lawsuit based on studies conducted by Moms Across America and GMO Science, seeking $5 million in damages.

Misrepresented Toxins

While acknowledging that its cookies contain “certain levels of glyphosate and heavy metals,” GSUSA emphasized its compliance with FDA safety standards.

“We want to be clear—there is no recall on Girl Scout Cookies. Our licensed bakers adhere to all FDA food safety regulations, and our cookies meet strict quality standards,” the statement said.

The organization also noted that glyphosate and heavy metals naturally occur in the environment. It stresses that the levels found in its products are consistent with these natural occurrences.

“Glyphosate is widely used in agriculture in accordance with established EPA standards and is found nearly everywhere in the food chain. Trace amounts of glyphosate can be found in fresh fruits, vegetables, cereals, baked goods, and other food and beverage commodities,” the statement added.

Girl Scout Support

While some consumers have embraced the rumors and even filed lawsuits, the Girl Scouts focus on highlighting its organization’s positive aspects. Other participants in the nationwide club are also showing support on National Girl Scouts Day.

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley extolled the virtues of the organization in a post on X. Crowley praised the leadership aspect of the organization.

Sportscaster Robin Roberts also celebrated the occasion, calling herself a “card-carrying lifetime member” in an X post.

“We’re celebrating #NationalGirlScoutDay all morning long in Times Square with our ‘Great Girl Scout Takeover’! We’re spotlighting a number of Girl Scouts from all across the country, giving back to their communities and selling those delicious cookies! As a card-carrying lifetime member of Girl Scouts myself, very excited about this morn!”

Sadly, the sibling organization, Boy Scouts of America, has faced multiple lawsuits alleging inappropriate conduct. The Girl Scouts continue promoting its social programs crafted to foster life skills.

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• Health and Wellness

by Sharelle B. McNair

March 14, 2025

New Study Reveals HBCU Students Have Better Mental Health Than Other College Students

The report found 45% of HBCU students were thriving mentally in comparison to 36% of college students nationally.

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A report from the University of Michigan School of Public Health, in collaboration with the United Negro College Fund, reveals Black students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) typically have better mental health outcomes than students at other institutions. 

In partnership with the Healthy Minds Network, the report titled “Community, Culture, and Care: A Cross-Institutional Analysis of Mental Health Among HBCU and PBI Students” found that 45% of HBCU students were thriving mentally compared to 36% of college students nationally. With responses from 2,504 students from 16 different HBCUs, 83% felt a sense of belonging in their community on campus versus 73% on the national scale. Students on HBCU campuses also showed lower signs of anxiety, eating disorders, and substance abuse compared to national averages.

Lead researcher and Ph.D. student in the Department of Health Behavior & Health Equity at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, Akilah Patterson, says the data comes when conversations about mental health occur more frequently. “It is essential to elevate the unique experiences, strengths, and challenges of HBCU students in conversations about mental health and well-being,” Patterson said.  

“At this pivotal moment in college student well-being, the voices of Black students should not only be heard but also supported and acted upon. This research paves the way for more action.” 

Participants were given eight statements from the Flourishing Scale, according to Inside Higher Ed, including “I am a good person and live a good life,” used to determine whether a respondent is “flourishing” mentally. The three most common statements selected read “I am a good person and live a good life,” “I actively contribute to the happiness and well-being of others,” and “I am confident and capable in the activities that are important to me.”

However, other components of HBCU students’ well-being show red flags. When it came to stress factors, financial concerns topped the list, with more than half of participants labeling money as “always” or “often” stressful. As a result, 78% of financially stressed students experienced mental health problems, compared to 26% of financially stable students. 

Over 25% of students who struggle financially have also reported thoughts of suicide. Despite the troubling numbers, HBCUs have taken things into account, working to develop strategies to address financial burdens, expand on-campus mental health resources, and heighten connections between students and faculty. “HBCUs have a long tradition of being centers of excellence and academic achievement,” Patterson continued.

“But this work also highlights that HBCUs are much more than that. They’re cultivating an environment of affirmation and belonging and support.”

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• Womens History Month

by Ahsan Washington

March 14, 2025

14 Of Wealthiest Black Women In Business And Entertainment

Black women have been very successful

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Notably, Black women have been very successful in business and entertainment. They continue to make great strides in entrepreneurship and the building of generational wealth. In celebration of Women’s History Month, BLACK ENTERPRISE highlights 14 of the wealthiest Black women, including a look at these women’s success, influence, and the industries they’ve helped shape. Their journeys serve as a testament to perseverance, innovation, and the growing economic power of Black women worldwide. 

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• News

by Kandiss Edwards

March 14, 2025

Kim Kardashian Attempts To Buy O.J. Simpson’s Bible Inscribed By Her Father

The Bible was given to O.J. Simpson by Robert Kardashian Sr. before Simpson stood trial for the murder of his wife.

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Kim Kardashian offered $15,000 for her late father’s Bible but was turned down.

Robert Kardashian Sr. gifted the Bible to O.J. Simpson before his 1995 murder trial. Inscribed with Robert’s handwriting, the Bible was up for sale in an estate auction, prompting Kardashian to place a bid.

Subsequently, the offer was declined. Estate executor Malcolm LaVergne explained the decision, saying that selling the item directly to Kardashian wasn’t financially viable.

“The amount is why I had no choice because why would I spend $15,000 of estate money—why would I spend $15,000 in attorney’s fees—to sell it to Kim for $15,000?” LaVergne said. “That’s a zero-sum game. That’s a bad business model. If Kim had offered $150,000 for it, we would’ve been in court getting this approved outside of the auction.”

Additionally, LaVergne noted that the Bible had already been commissioned for sale through Goldin Auctions. Selling it ahead of the event could expose the estate to legal action.

The inscription by Robert Sr. was a sentimental message of support. Before representing Simpson, the two were friends. He referenced strength and faith as a way to navigate the highly publicized trial.

“O.J., this book will help,” Robert Sr. wrote. “God loves, and he will speak to you with his words. Read this book every day. God has a definite plan for your life. You are his child, and he will use you again. I love you, and God loves you.”

Many may be surprised by Kim Kardashian’s lowball offer. The entrepreneur has been making headlines for her savvy business moves.

According to Finance Monthly, the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star signed a deal with Nike for her SKIMS brand, which is valued at $4 billion. The SKIMS CEO has a personal net worth of $1.7 billion.

Though the billionaire was unable to purchase the sentimental item outside of the auction, she will be able to place a larger bid on it through official channels.

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• Politics

by Mitti Hicks

March 14, 2025

Federal Judge Orders Thousands of Probationary Employees Fired By Trump Be Reinstated

A federal judge has ordered that the thousands of federal employees fired under the Trump administration be temporarily reinstated. Federal departments have to reinstate affected employees by March 17 at 1 p.m. ET.

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A federal judge has ordered that the thousands of federal employees fired under the Trump administration be temporarily reinstated.

According to NBC News, U.S. District Judge James Bredar issued a temporary restraining order Thursday night. The order is against dozens of agencies, departments, and federal department heads who ultimately terminated workers under the Trump administration’s orders.

“In this case, the government conducted massive layoffs, but it gave no advance notice,” Bredar wrote in his ruling. “It claims it wasn’t required to because, it says, it dismissed each one of these thousands of probationary employees for ‘performance’ or other individualized reasons.”

Judge Bredar adds, “On the record before the Court, this isn’t true. There were no individualized assessments of employees. They were all just fired. Collectively.”

Bredar’s Ruling Applies To Fired Employees in Dozens of Departments

Bredar’s orders apply to 12 departments that have fired federal probationary employees. The 12 departments include Agriculture, Commerce, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Labor, Transportation, Treasury, and Veterans Affairs.

His ruling also applies to probationary workers terminated at the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Probationary workers from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., the General Service Administration, and the Small Business Administration are also included.

NBC News reported that Judge Bredar also acknowledged in his ruling the impact his decision would have after more than 200,000 federal probationary employees had been let go since President Donald Trump took office in January.

“The Court is not blind to the practical reality that the relief being ordered today will have far-reaching impacts on the federal workforce and will require the Government to expend considerable resources in an effort to undo the [reductions in force] that have been put into place,” Bredar wrote.

Federal departments have to reinstate affected employees by March 17 at 1 p.m. ET. Appeals from departments are likely.

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• News

by Kandiss Edwards

March 14, 2025

Wendell Pierce And Erika Woods Reprise Roles As ‘Snap’ And ‘Pop’ In ‘Raising Kanan’ Season 4

Veteran actors and real life couple Erika Woods and Wendell Pierce talk about The Power Book series

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Power Book III: Raising Kanan began its fourth season March 7. The show, part of the world affectionately known as the Power-verse, follows the infamous Kanan Stark. As he navigates adolescence, the audience watches an innocent teenager transform into a ruthless criminal.

Season 3 introduced two new characters, Ishmael “Snaps” Henry and his partner in alleged crime, Stephanie “Pop” Henry. The roles are performed by acting veterans Ericka Woods and Wendell Pierce. Both Pierce and Woods, a real-life couple, spoke with BLACK ENTERPRISE about the beauty of an all-Black cast, humanity, and creativity. 

Both Woods and Pierce have graced the screen in iconic shows. Woods’ roles in Blue Bloods and The Blacklist were fairly straitlaced, keeping her on the “right” side of the law. In Raising Kanan, she taps into the streets. When asked how she finds humanity in gritty characters, Woods cheekily reminded BE that all crimes committed by Snap and Pop are “alleged.” She then shared how she approached bringing Pop to life:

“I honestly think we’re one of the only characters that love each other more than money. In my back story, I think I knew my husband before I had money. Maybe, before he had money. The humanity comes from the love. He has my back in this dirty world that we’re in. I know that he is one person that I can trust in this whole filthy world. For me, that is how I tap into that humanity.”

Pierce takes a more grounded approach, relating Snap and Pop’s actions to real life. He believes these characters could have been on the right side of the law if only given the chance. Life, however, led them to seize the day — or night — as it was presented to them.

“I believe that most people’s impulse is not to be a criminal. Their impulse is just to live a better life. When people aren’t allowed to be a part of the mainstream economy, they will go to the underground economy to make a way out of nowhere. The love and care that we have for each other would exist no matter where we are, no matter what we chose to do. It is by the nature of circumstance that we happen to be here. I like to think that the opportunity was nowhere else.”

With separate approaches to their craft, one might wonder if their creative choices ever clash. Pierce emphatically said they don’t ask “unsolicited questions” and instead lean into their craft as actors and professionals first.

“Shakespeare said, the best, the play is the thing. As a matter of form its best to keep the two separate right, so you know you focus on your work and then don’t ask for unsolicited answers. The truth might hurt.”

Pierce’s résumé is extensive, and he is a veteran talent. Over his 40-year career, he has not only earned respect in the industry but has seemingly been granted it. Woods, however, is a Black woman in Hollywood, where representation has long been an issue. While many Black actresses have spoken out about the lack of respect and access in the industry, she has found that working with an all-Black cast and a diverse crew has helped her gain equity as a talent.

“I do think it is easier when you’re on an African American set. we have a very, multiracial make trailer. Everybody understands the assignment,” Woods said.

Playing supporting roles in the Power universe, there is no telling how long fans will get to enjoy the talent of Woods and Pierce. However, you can catch their contribution to the Power-verse when the duo returns for season 4, airing now on STARZ.

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• News

by Kandiss Edwards

March 14, 2025

‘With Love,’ Black-Women Show Off Cookware In Support Of Meghan Markle

Meghan Markle featured the brand Le Creuset on her show.

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Meghan Markle just debuted her new cooking show, With Love; Meghan and women everywhere are showing their support by purchasing cookware featured in the series.

The cookware brand used in the show is Le Creuset, known for its high-quality, high-priced cast-iron pieces. After Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, received criticism online for embracing a “soft life” lifestyle, many Black women rallied in support by investing in the brand’s wares.

Markle has faced relentless negative press since marrying the Duke of Sussex, also known as Prince Harry. False narratives have been crafted to portray her in an unflattering light, and even her love of avocados and fashion choices are subjects of controversy.

With Love, Meghan offers Markle a platform to share her passions on her own terms. While critics continue to dissect her relatability and content, Black women are choosing to support her instead. Many are proudly showcasing their Le Creuset collections, educating others on the brand’s quality, and celebrating the Duchess’s embrace of a luxurious yet practical lifestyle.

Social media users have joined the conversation, with one excitedly showcasing her extensive collection of Le Creuset cookware, which comes in a range of colors and styles, from nutmeg to blue and pink.

@not_youraverageblackgirl #lecreuset #blackwomen #meganmarkle #cooking ♬ original sound – not_youraverageblackgirl

Others took to social media for advice on buying their first pieces.

“Black girl soft life! I need a cookware upgrade! What is the best piece of Le Creuset?” one user asked.

@queen_energy3 Blackgirl soft life! I need a cookware upgrade! What is the best piece of le creuset? #softlife #blacksuburbanmom #blackwomen #hostess #lecreuset #blackluxury ♬ original sound – Queen_Energy3

Another user highlighted her Le Creuset x Sheila Bridges collaboration piece, which incorporates Bridges’ signature Harlem Toile de Jouy design.

@nnekao1 I’m obsessed she’s so pretty #lecruset #sheliabridges #cookware ♬ original sound – Nneka O382

Bridges, a celebrated New York City-based interior designer, is known for her work with high-profile clients and designs that capture the essence of Harlem. The Black woman tastemaker also showed everyday people how to elevate their space on her show Designer Living.

The author of The Brown Mermaid vouched for Le Creuset’s integrity. According to Bridges, the pieces are prominently displayed in her home, and their beauty is a part of her kitchen design. For this reason, the famed designer was excited to add her spin to the functional art pieces.

“I only want to collaborate with companies whose brands are kind of similar to mine, in terms of things that are high quality, things that are well designed, functional and works but is also beautiful,” Bridges said while promoting the collaboration.

This surge in support for Markle, Le Creuset, and Bridges’s collaboration reflects a broader trend of Black women uplifting each other and embracing luxury in everyday life.

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• Celebrity News

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

March 14, 2025

After CNN Is Accused Of Altering Diddy Assault Video, Cassie’s Attorney Responds

"I am confident that the video fairly and accurately represents what happened."

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After the attorneys for Sean “Diddy” Combs accused CNN of altering the video showing the entertainment mogul assaulting Cassie in 2016, the singer’s lawyer blasted her former boyfriend and stated that “Combs will be held accountable for his depravity.”

According to Variety, the legal team for Diddy is accusing the news network of editing the video showing Diddy assaulting Cassie at the InterContinental Hotel that was broadcasted on CNN in May 2024, after several accusations were leveled against the “Bad Boy Records” founder. His attorneys claim that CNN obtained the footage and used free editing software to alter the video.

In the court filing, they say it was the only known copy of the video and that the network destroyed the original footage “even though it knew about and repeatedly reported about the federal investigation.”

Although Diddy recorded a video and posted it on his social media account after the airing of the video, he apologized for his action, stating he was in a “dark place.” His attorneys are now saying that the clip shown on CNN was “substantially altered in significant respects.” They claim the network covered the time stamp, changed the video sequence, and sped the video up to make it seem like the troubling attack happened faster than it did.

CNN released a statement denying the accusations from the legal team.

“CNN never altered the video and did not destroy the original copy of the footage, which was retained by the source. CNN aired the story about the video several months before Combs was arrested.”

Daily Mail reported that Cassie’s attorney blasted Diddy’s legal team, stating they are making a “disingenuous argument” to try to prevent the video from being shown at his upcoming trial.

“It’s not surprising Diddy would make a disingenuous argument to exclude the disturbing video from being shown to the jury in the upcoming trial.”

“I am confident that the video fairly and accurately represents what happened, will be admitted into evidence, and that Combs will be held accountable for his depravity.”