#FASHIONFAB: Dolce & Gabbana Revisits The Art Of Dressing Up For it's fall-winter 2026 campaign
Akbar Shamji, Reece Nelson, Kit Butler, and Ruben Aiello line up in tuxedo tailoring for the Dolce & Gabbana fall-winter 2026 campaign. Photo: Steven Meisel / Dolce & Gabbana
Slicked-back hair by Guido Palau and flashes of bare skin sharpen the season’s after-dark attitude. While sharp dinner jackets and accessories recall the old Hollywood leading man, Dolce & Gabbana keeps the setting spare and lets the cast interact, turning black-tie dressing into something sensual and playful.
#RHOA: NeNe Leakes #RHOA Reunites With Phaedra & Porsha During ‘RHUGT,’
NeNe Leakes, the beloved 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' star, made an emotional comeback on Bravo's 'RHUGT' Roaring 20th special. Here's what went down.
BLOOOP! NeNe Leakes made her much-anticipated return to the Bravo universe, and her appearance had the cast of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th (RHUGT) screaming, hugging, and even shedding tears as they welcomed the beloved blueprint of housewives.
During the Aug. 30 episode, we saw Leakes unexpectedly reunited with the cast at a drag brunch in Atlanta after already chatting it up with Porsha Williams.
During her #RHUGT appearance, she reflected on her time away from The Real Housewives of Atlanta, her complicated feelings about leaving the franchise, and what it was like to find herself back in the Bravo mix suddenly.
After receiving a very enthusiastic welcome from the ladies, Leakes opened up about what it was really like walking away from #RHOA. She officially left the series in September 2020 after announcing she would not return for Season 13.
“In the beginning I was happy to be gone honestly because it was just a heavy time,” NeNe told the cast when asked if she missed being on The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
But leaving the cameras behind wasn’t completely easy. Leakes admitted there was a point when watching the other women continue filming without her made her feel a little “weird” and left out. Eventually, though, those feelings gave way to something she valued even more: “peace.”
That sentiment clearly resonated with Porsha Williams, who also knows what it feels like to step away from the franchise. Williams announced her departure from The Real Housewives of Atlanta in September 2021 after completing Season 13.
And if anyone knew what was coming at the drag brunch, it was Porsha. Williams was the only cast member in on the surprise and helped orchestrate Leakes’ big entrance. Once the other women realized who was standing in front of them, they completely lost it, rushing the stage to hug their longtime friend and welcome her back with open arms.
Porsha said, “When I got back on the camera.. It’s gotta be some real sh*t,” to which NeNe nodded in agreement.
And things definitely got real, and fabulous.
BLOOOP! NeNe Leakes made her much-anticipated return to the Bravo universe, and her appearance had the cast of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th (RHUGT) screaming, hugging, and even shedding tears as they welcomed the beloved blueprint of housewives.
During the Aug. 30 episode, we saw Leakes unexpectedly reunited with the cast at a drag brunch in Atlanta after already chatting it up with Porsha Williams.
During her #RHUGT appearance, she reflected on her time away from The Real Housewives of Atlanta, her complicated feelings about leaving the franchise, and what it was like to find herself back in the Bravo mix suddenly.
After receiving a very enthusiastic welcome from the ladies, Leakes opened up about what it was really like walking away from #RHOA. She officially left the series in September 2020 after announcing she would not return for Season 13.
“In the beginning I was happy to be gone honestly because it was just a heavy time,” NeNe told the cast when asked if she missed being on The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
But leaving the cameras behind wasn’t completely easy. Leakes admitted there was a point when watching the other women continue filming without her made her feel a little “weird” and left out. Eventually, though, those feelings gave way to something she valued even more: “peace.”
That sentiment clearly resonated with Porsha Williams, who also knows what it feels like to step away from the franchise. Williams announced her departure from The Real Housewives of Atlanta in September 2021 after completing Season 13.
And if anyone knew what was coming at the drag brunch, it was Porsha. Williams was the only cast member in on the surprise and helped orchestrate Leakes’ big entrance. Once the other women realized who was standing in front of them, they completely lost it, rushing the stage to hug their longtime friend and welcome her back with open arms.
Porsha said, “When I got back on the camera.. It’s gotta be some real sh*t,” to which NeNe nodded in agreement.
And things definitely got real, and fabulous.
#NewMusic from Tamia Returns Has New Single “Forever And A Day”
Six-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated R&B vocalist Tamia has officially released her newest single, “Forever and a Day.” Available now across all major digital streaming platforms, the heartfelt record arrives more than three decades into her celebrated career, serving as a powerful ode to profound, lasting love.
“Forever and a Day” captures the unique joy of a relationship that remains as exciting as its earliest days. The romantic track serves as an anthem for deep connection, highlighting themes of passion, genuine friendship, emotional safety, and an unwavering commitment to stand by a partner’s side.
The single was written and produced in collaboration with acclaimed musical architects Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony. The release marks the latest chapter in a prolific creative partnership that has yielded several standout moments throughout Tamia’s expansive discography.
The trio previously collaborated on:
-The GRAMMY-nominated title track from her sixth studio album, Beautiful Surprise
-The sweeping soulful ballad “It’s Not Fair”
-“Lipstick,” a fan-favorite standout from her acclaimed 2015 album, Love Life
-The Louis York 2024 single “Three Little Words”
The production duo, also known collectively as the group Louis York, brings an elite pedigree to the new release. Kelly’s extensive songwriting catalog includes massive, chart-topping hits for global superstars such as Bruno Mars, Rihanna, Ne-Yo, Miley Cyrus, Kelly Clarkson, Fantasia, Ledisi, and Anthony Hamilton.
“Forever and a Day” captures the unique joy of a relationship that remains as exciting as its earliest days. The romantic track serves as an anthem for deep connection, highlighting themes of passion, genuine friendship, emotional safety, and an unwavering commitment to stand by a partner’s side.
The single was written and produced in collaboration with acclaimed musical architects Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony. The release marks the latest chapter in a prolific creative partnership that has yielded several standout moments throughout Tamia’s expansive discography.
The trio previously collaborated on:
-The GRAMMY-nominated title track from her sixth studio album, Beautiful Surprise
-The sweeping soulful ballad “It’s Not Fair”
-“Lipstick,” a fan-favorite standout from her acclaimed 2015 album, Love Life
-The Louis York 2024 single “Three Little Words”
The production duo, also known collectively as the group Louis York, brings an elite pedigree to the new release. Kelly’s extensive songwriting catalog includes massive, chart-topping hits for global superstars such as Bruno Mars, Rihanna, Ne-Yo, Miley Cyrus, Kelly Clarkson, Fantasia, Ledisi, and Anthony Hamilton.
LISTEN HERE:
The release of “Forever and a Day” coincides with an exciting new milestone for the R&B veteran. Earlier this month, Tamia successfully wrapped a completely sold-out tour across South Africa. The highly anticipated international run featured back-to-back shows in Cape Town, alongside massive performances in Durban and Pretoria, further solidifying her expansive global reach and the dedicated international fanbase she has cultivated over her career.
“Forever and a Day” is available to stream and download now across all major digital platforms.
The release of “Forever and a Day” coincides with an exciting new milestone for the R&B veteran. Earlier this month, Tamia successfully wrapped a completely sold-out tour across South Africa. The highly anticipated international run featured back-to-back shows in Cape Town, alongside massive performances in Durban and Pretoria, further solidifying her expansive global reach and the dedicated international fanbase she has cultivated over her career.
“Forever and a Day” is available to stream and download now across all major digital platforms.
#HipHopNews: Late Rapper DMX’s Fragrance Gets Limited Edition Re-Release in 2026
Most artists’ posthumous releases are almost always the same. Their estate will scrounge up their demos and unreleased records and retrofit them onto new projects. Maybe they’ll scrounge through some old, archived footage and make a documentary about them. Perhaps there will be some new merch for fans to buy in honor of them. But the DMX estate is taking a decidedly different approach. What if you wanted to buy some cologne endorsed by the Ruff Ryder?
DMX’s estate and the Black-owned fragrance brand Isidore Luxury are teaming together for a brand-new fragrance. According to the Isidore Luxury website, the Bronx-born rapper personally cosigned the scent before he tragically passed away in 2021. “A distinguished release, personally endorsed by Earl ‘DMX’ Simmons during his lifetime and reintroduced to market by his Estate in honor of his enduring legacy,” they shared.
Additionally, the estate wrote a statement announcing the collaboration. “In honor of Earl’s vision and partnership with Isidore during his lifetime, we are proud to reintroduce his signature fragrance to the world. Refined. Elevated. Unmistakably X,” they wrote.
The scent notes are described in an extremely complex manner. Initially, it starts off with notes of melon, pineapple leaf, and pink pepper. Then, you smell traces of lavender and geranium. Finally, it finishes with scents of patchouli, suede, and amber woods.
Isidore Luxury similarly honored X in the aftermath of his death in April 2021. They released a similarly limited edition collection, with proceeds going directly to his family. “Made for men with power and determination. This fragrance is more than just a fragrance. It’s the physical embodiment of the legend. The DMX Collection is the only and last product ever endorsed by @dmx and his fragrance was something that he truly believed in. A sweet soft but fierce scent perfect for a King,” they wrote.
As the DMX estate releases a new fragrance, they’re also going to honor him with a street named after him. In a report from DJMag, they revealed that the street he grew up on in Yonkers would be renamed after him.
He lived in Calcagno Homes, between School Street and Brooke Street in Westchester County. Previously, a mural was painted in the late rapper’s honor. Discussions started back in 2021 to honor him. Now, they’ve renamed the street to Earl DMX Simmons Way in his memory.
DMX’s estate and the Black-owned fragrance brand Isidore Luxury are teaming together for a brand-new fragrance. According to the Isidore Luxury website, the Bronx-born rapper personally cosigned the scent before he tragically passed away in 2021. “A distinguished release, personally endorsed by Earl ‘DMX’ Simmons during his lifetime and reintroduced to market by his Estate in honor of his enduring legacy,” they shared.
Additionally, the estate wrote a statement announcing the collaboration. “In honor of Earl’s vision and partnership with Isidore during his lifetime, we are proud to reintroduce his signature fragrance to the world. Refined. Elevated. Unmistakably X,” they wrote.
The scent notes are described in an extremely complex manner. Initially, it starts off with notes of melon, pineapple leaf, and pink pepper. Then, you smell traces of lavender and geranium. Finally, it finishes with scents of patchouli, suede, and amber woods.
Isidore Luxury similarly honored X in the aftermath of his death in April 2021. They released a similarly limited edition collection, with proceeds going directly to his family. “Made for men with power and determination. This fragrance is more than just a fragrance. It’s the physical embodiment of the legend. The DMX Collection is the only and last product ever endorsed by @dmx and his fragrance was something that he truly believed in. A sweet soft but fierce scent perfect for a King,” they wrote.
As the DMX estate releases a new fragrance, they’re also going to honor him with a street named after him. In a report from DJMag, they revealed that the street he grew up on in Yonkers would be renamed after him.
He lived in Calcagno Homes, between School Street and Brooke Street in Westchester County. Previously, a mural was painted in the late rapper’s honor. Discussions started back in 2021 to honor him. Now, they’ve renamed the street to Earl DMX Simmons Way in his memory.
Lionel Richie checks himself into hospital out of abundance of caution
Singer Lionel Richie has checked himself into a hospital out of an abundance of caution after headlining a summer concert over the weekend, ABC News has learned from a source close to the singer's tour, which began in June.
The "Hello" artist performed in St. Louis at The Muny's annual summer finale concert on Saturday night.
TMZ was among the first to report the news.
According to the outlet, concertgoers reportedly saw Richie appearing to struggle toward the end of the show and performing his final song, "All Night Long," while sitting down.
Richie's hospitalization comes more than two months after he experienced dizziness onstage during the opening night of his tour with Earth, Wind & Fire in Minnesota on June 24.
Several videos shared online at the time showed Richie performing while seated during that show.
Richie subsequently postponed two shows -- one in Columbus, Ohio, and another in Chicago -- after being advised by doctors to "rest and return to full health," according to Live Nation Chicago.
He returned to the stage on June 30 for a performance with Earth, Wind & Fire in Pittsburgh.
On July 4, Richie shared a message on Instagram, thanking his followers for their concern and support.
"Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love," he wrote in part. "I'm doing well, and I'm grateful for all of you."
Along with his rescheduled tour dates, Richie is expected to take the stage at the Wynn in Las Vegas in October and November for his "King of Hearts" shows.
The "Hello" artist performed in St. Louis at The Muny's annual summer finale concert on Saturday night.
TMZ was among the first to report the news.
According to the outlet, concertgoers reportedly saw Richie appearing to struggle toward the end of the show and performing his final song, "All Night Long," while sitting down.
Richie's hospitalization comes more than two months after he experienced dizziness onstage during the opening night of his tour with Earth, Wind & Fire in Minnesota on June 24.
Several videos shared online at the time showed Richie performing while seated during that show.
Richie subsequently postponed two shows -- one in Columbus, Ohio, and another in Chicago -- after being advised by doctors to "rest and return to full health," according to Live Nation Chicago.
He returned to the stage on June 30 for a performance with Earth, Wind & Fire in Pittsburgh.
On July 4, Richie shared a message on Instagram, thanking his followers for their concern and support.
"Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love," he wrote in part. "I'm doing well, and I'm grateful for all of you."
Along with his rescheduled tour dates, Richie is expected to take the stage at the Wynn in Las Vegas in October and November for his "King of Hearts" shows.
Duane “Keefe D” Davis Found Guilty Of The Murder Of Tupac Shakur Nearly 30 Years After Las Vegas Shooting
Nearly three decades after Tupac Shakur was gunned down on the Las Vegas Strip, a jury has finally returned the first murder conviction in one of the most infamous killings in Hip Hop history.
Duane “Keffe D” Davis was found guilty Monday, August 31, of first-degree murder in connection with the September 1996 drive-by shooting that ultimately claimed the life of the 25-year-old Hip Hop icon.
The Las Vegas jury reached its decision after less than three hours of deliberations following closing arguments Monday. Davis, 63, was the only person ever criminally charged in connection with Shakur’s killing.
Prosecutors never argued that Davis was the person who actually pulled the trigger.
Instead, they built their case around the theory that Davis was the “shot caller” who orchestrated the retaliatory attack and provided the gun used in the shooting after Shakur and members of the Death Row Records entourage attacked Davis’ nephew, Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, inside the MGM Grand earlier that night.
Under Nevada law, Davis did not have to personally fire the weapon to be held criminally responsible for the murder.
The confrontation occurred following the Mike Tyson-Bruce Seldon heavyweight fight at the MGM Grand on September 7, 1996. Surveillance footage captured Shakur, Death Row co-founder Marion “Suge” Knight and others attacking Anderson inside the casino.
Hours later, Shakur was riding in the passenger seat of Knight’s black BMW near the Las Vegas Strip when a white Cadillac pulled alongside the vehicle and gunfire erupted.
Pac was struck multiple times.He died six days later, on September 13, 1996.
Davis had long acknowledged being inside the Cadillac that night. Over the years, he discussed the shooting in interviews, a 2008 police interview and his 2019 memoir, Compton Street Legend. Those statements eventually became a critical part of the prosecution’s case against him.
The defense took the unusual position that Davis had exaggerated or fabricated his involvement for money, notoriety and street credibility. His attorneys argued that the government’s case lacked the physical evidence necessary to corroborate significant portions of the stories Davis had told publicly over the years.
Davis did not testify in his own defense.
Jurors ultimately rejected that argument.
The prosecution called roughly two dozen witnesses during the trial, while the defense presented three. Among the evidence jurors heard were Davis’ own recorded descriptions of the events surrounding the shooting and testimony about the gang dynamics that prosecutors argued led to the retaliatory attack.
The verdict represents an extraordinary conclusion to a murder investigation that remained officially unsolved for almost 30 years.
Davis wasn’t arrested until September 29, 2023—more than 27 years after Tupac’s death—following a renewed Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigation that included a search of a Henderson, Nevada, home connected to Davis.
The other three men authorities have identified as being inside the Cadillac are all dead, including Anderson, who was killed in an unrelated Compton shooting in 1998.
For decades, Tupac’s murder existed somewhere between an active homicide investigation and Hip Hop mythology. Books, documentaries, interviews, conspiracy theories and street accounts produced countless versions of what happened that September night.
Now, for the first time, a jury has legally assigned criminal responsibility for Tupac Shakur’s murder.
Davis faces the possibility of life in prison. Following the verdict, he indicated that he intends to appeal his conviction.
Duane “Keffe D” Davis was found guilty Monday, August 31, of first-degree murder in connection with the September 1996 drive-by shooting that ultimately claimed the life of the 25-year-old Hip Hop icon.
The Las Vegas jury reached its decision after less than three hours of deliberations following closing arguments Monday. Davis, 63, was the only person ever criminally charged in connection with Shakur’s killing.
Prosecutors never argued that Davis was the person who actually pulled the trigger.
Instead, they built their case around the theory that Davis was the “shot caller” who orchestrated the retaliatory attack and provided the gun used in the shooting after Shakur and members of the Death Row Records entourage attacked Davis’ nephew, Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, inside the MGM Grand earlier that night.
Under Nevada law, Davis did not have to personally fire the weapon to be held criminally responsible for the murder.
The confrontation occurred following the Mike Tyson-Bruce Seldon heavyweight fight at the MGM Grand on September 7, 1996. Surveillance footage captured Shakur, Death Row co-founder Marion “Suge” Knight and others attacking Anderson inside the casino.
Hours later, Shakur was riding in the passenger seat of Knight’s black BMW near the Las Vegas Strip when a white Cadillac pulled alongside the vehicle and gunfire erupted.
Pac was struck multiple times.He died six days later, on September 13, 1996.
Davis had long acknowledged being inside the Cadillac that night. Over the years, he discussed the shooting in interviews, a 2008 police interview and his 2019 memoir, Compton Street Legend. Those statements eventually became a critical part of the prosecution’s case against him.
The defense took the unusual position that Davis had exaggerated or fabricated his involvement for money, notoriety and street credibility. His attorneys argued that the government’s case lacked the physical evidence necessary to corroborate significant portions of the stories Davis had told publicly over the years.
Davis did not testify in his own defense.
Jurors ultimately rejected that argument.
The prosecution called roughly two dozen witnesses during the trial, while the defense presented three. Among the evidence jurors heard were Davis’ own recorded descriptions of the events surrounding the shooting and testimony about the gang dynamics that prosecutors argued led to the retaliatory attack.
The verdict represents an extraordinary conclusion to a murder investigation that remained officially unsolved for almost 30 years.
Davis wasn’t arrested until September 29, 2023—more than 27 years after Tupac’s death—following a renewed Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigation that included a search of a Henderson, Nevada, home connected to Davis.
The other three men authorities have identified as being inside the Cadillac are all dead, including Anderson, who was killed in an unrelated Compton shooting in 1998.
For decades, Tupac’s murder existed somewhere between an active homicide investigation and Hip Hop mythology. Books, documentaries, interviews, conspiracy theories and street accounts produced countless versions of what happened that September night.
Now, for the first time, a jury has legally assigned criminal responsibility for Tupac Shakur’s murder.
Davis faces the possibility of life in prison. Following the verdict, he indicated that he intends to appeal his conviction.
D4vd’s legal team abruptly withdraws; singer taps public defender for murder trial
D4vd and his legal team parted ways, with the singer opting instead to be represented by public defenders in his high-profile murder case, he told a stunned courtroom Monday.
After lawyers had met with Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo in chambers, defense attorney Blair Berk emerged and told the court that her client, whose real name is David Burke, wants the public defender.
“Is that your wish, Mr. Burke?” Olmedo asked.Burke responded, “Yes.”
The surprising turnaround came during what normally would have been a routine pretrial hearing in this case, in which Burke is accused of killing a 14-year-old girl, whose decaying remains were found in the trunk of his abandoned car.
Burke’s new attorney, Walid Fouad Kandeel, had been seated in the gallery until Berk disclosed the change of legal teams.
Olmedo then asked Kandeel to step forward and introduce himself to the court.
Kandeel asked for Monday’s arraignment to be continued to give him more time to study the case.
Olmedo denied the request and entered not guilty pleas on Burke’s behalf, promising to give Kandeel more time to prepare if he needed it.
Olmedo then ordered all parties to return to court Oct. 19.
Burke, shackled and wearing an orange jail jumpsuit, smiled and shook hands with his now-former attorneys Berk and Regina Peter as court was adjourned. Burke will remain in custody without bail.
“This morning the court granted our request to withdraw as counsel and appoint the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office after it was determined David qualified for appointed counsel,” Berk said in a statement.
“We continue to support David and his defense against these serious charges. We are grateful that the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office has taken over the representation and that David has a highly capable and committed team of attorneys and investigators behind him.”
The public defender’s office extended its condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
“We recognize the loss of life underlying the allegations and extend our sympathies to those who are grieving,” the office said in a statement. “At the same time, David Burke is entitled to a defense that takes his circumstances seriously and carefully examines the evidence. We are committed to providing him with that defense.”
It wasn’t immediately clear why Burke and his lawyers separated.
“I’m sure the public defender will give him a zealous representation,” District Attorney Nathan Hochman said.
Olmedo ordered Burke, 21, on July 27 to stand trial after prosecutors presented evidence at a preliminary hearing in connection with the slaying of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, 14.
Burke was arrested on the afternoon of April 16 at a house on Marmont Avenue in the Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles police said.
Police found Celeste’s remains in the trunk of a Tesla impounded at Hollywood Tow on Sept. 8. Officers were drawn to the scene after reports of a foul odor coming from the vehicle.
Text messages between Burke and Celeste say she had gotten pregnant at age 13 and had an abortion. And in an exchange in early January 2024, Burke apologized for “putting her through this.”
After lawyers had met with Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo in chambers, defense attorney Blair Berk emerged and told the court that her client, whose real name is David Burke, wants the public defender.
“Is that your wish, Mr. Burke?” Olmedo asked.Burke responded, “Yes.”
The surprising turnaround came during what normally would have been a routine pretrial hearing in this case, in which Burke is accused of killing a 14-year-old girl, whose decaying remains were found in the trunk of his abandoned car.
Burke’s new attorney, Walid Fouad Kandeel, had been seated in the gallery until Berk disclosed the change of legal teams.
Olmedo then asked Kandeel to step forward and introduce himself to the court.
Kandeel asked for Monday’s arraignment to be continued to give him more time to study the case.
Olmedo denied the request and entered not guilty pleas on Burke’s behalf, promising to give Kandeel more time to prepare if he needed it.
Olmedo then ordered all parties to return to court Oct. 19.
Burke, shackled and wearing an orange jail jumpsuit, smiled and shook hands with his now-former attorneys Berk and Regina Peter as court was adjourned. Burke will remain in custody without bail.
“This morning the court granted our request to withdraw as counsel and appoint the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office after it was determined David qualified for appointed counsel,” Berk said in a statement.
“We continue to support David and his defense against these serious charges. We are grateful that the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office has taken over the representation and that David has a highly capable and committed team of attorneys and investigators behind him.”
The public defender’s office extended its condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
“We recognize the loss of life underlying the allegations and extend our sympathies to those who are grieving,” the office said in a statement. “At the same time, David Burke is entitled to a defense that takes his circumstances seriously and carefully examines the evidence. We are committed to providing him with that defense.”
It wasn’t immediately clear why Burke and his lawyers separated.
“I’m sure the public defender will give him a zealous representation,” District Attorney Nathan Hochman said.
Olmedo ordered Burke, 21, on July 27 to stand trial after prosecutors presented evidence at a preliminary hearing in connection with the slaying of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, 14.
Burke was arrested on the afternoon of April 16 at a house on Marmont Avenue in the Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles police said.
Police found Celeste’s remains in the trunk of a Tesla impounded at Hollywood Tow on Sept. 8. Officers were drawn to the scene after reports of a foul odor coming from the vehicle.
Text messages between Burke and Celeste say she had gotten pregnant at age 13 and had an abortion. And in an exchange in early January 2024, Burke apologized for “putting her through this.”
Jill Scott Postpones Tour After COVID Diagnosis
Jill Scott postponed four Texas concerts after a COVID-19 diagnosis made performing in Houston and Dallas unsafe for staff and fans.
The Grammy-winning singer had been scheduled to close the U.S. leg of her “To Whom This May Concern Tour” with two performances near Houston and two near Dallas. Instead of a celebratory finish Scott found herself sidelined by an illness doctors initially believed was a minor virus.
The Houston-area concerts originally set for Aug. 30 and 31 at Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land have been moved to Sept. 11 and 12. The Dallas-area stops initially booked for Sept. 3 and 4 at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving will now take place Sept. 14 and 15. Previously purchased tickets and packages will remain valid. The original dates and venues appeared on official venue and ticketing listings.
Scott delivered the disappointing news directly in a statement
“I am very sorry to report that what doctors perceived to be a minor virus has turned into Covid 19. While I feel OK, I’m not able to go out without a mask.
For everyone’s safety and wellness, I have to reschedule my last four shows on the US TOUR as well.
Team Jill will be rescheduling Houston to September 11 and 12th. Dallas for September 14 and 15th.
All tickets and packages are, of course, going to be honored. I appreciate any understanding you are willing to provide. This sucks and I’m very sorry but I just can’t risk getting ya’ll sick.
Love you LOTS,
Ms. Jill Scott”
Her announcement arrived as federal monitoring showed COVID-19 gaining ground again across the country.
As of Aug. 21 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel) reported that national and regional COVID-19 activity was increasing. The agency also said the overall level of acute respiratory illness sending people to medical care remained very low.
Those findings are important.Available indicators point toward wider viral circulation but not a comparable leap in serious illness. The CDC uses wastewater surveillance as an early signal because it can detect community spread before infected people seek treatment.
Rising virus levels in sewage tends to indicate a higher risk of infection even when hospital demand remains limited. Scott’s decision is just a brief timeout at the moment.
Still the music has not been canceled and a revised schedule says Houston and Dallas will get their nights with Ms. Jill a little later.
The Grammy-winning singer had been scheduled to close the U.S. leg of her “To Whom This May Concern Tour” with two performances near Houston and two near Dallas. Instead of a celebratory finish Scott found herself sidelined by an illness doctors initially believed was a minor virus.
The Houston-area concerts originally set for Aug. 30 and 31 at Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land have been moved to Sept. 11 and 12. The Dallas-area stops initially booked for Sept. 3 and 4 at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving will now take place Sept. 14 and 15. Previously purchased tickets and packages will remain valid. The original dates and venues appeared on official venue and ticketing listings.
Scott delivered the disappointing news directly in a statement
“I am very sorry to report that what doctors perceived to be a minor virus has turned into Covid 19. While I feel OK, I’m not able to go out without a mask.
For everyone’s safety and wellness, I have to reschedule my last four shows on the US TOUR as well.
Team Jill will be rescheduling Houston to September 11 and 12th. Dallas for September 14 and 15th.
All tickets and packages are, of course, going to be honored. I appreciate any understanding you are willing to provide. This sucks and I’m very sorry but I just can’t risk getting ya’ll sick.
Love you LOTS,
Ms. Jill Scott”
Her announcement arrived as federal monitoring showed COVID-19 gaining ground again across the country.
As of Aug. 21 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel) reported that national and regional COVID-19 activity was increasing. The agency also said the overall level of acute respiratory illness sending people to medical care remained very low.
Those findings are important.Available indicators point toward wider viral circulation but not a comparable leap in serious illness. The CDC uses wastewater surveillance as an early signal because it can detect community spread before infected people seek treatment.
Rising virus levels in sewage tends to indicate a higher risk of infection even when hospital demand remains limited. Scott’s decision is just a brief timeout at the moment.
Still the music has not been canceled and a revised schedule says Houston and Dallas will get their nights with Ms. Jill a little later.
Mary J. Blige Enters AI Music Battle With Suno Ad
Mary J. Blige has entered music’s AI war by starring in a new Suno advertisement, giving the controversial generator some serious R&B credibility.
The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul watches the platform turn written prompts into a polished record, then reacts as producers reshape its sound around her direction.
“Suno is a game changer. Imagine if we could write the words and make it be delivered any way we wanted…” Blige said.
Another clip catches her responding with pure enthusiasm: “Dope. This shit is amazing. I love bass. I love keys.”
Her participation also gives Suno a trusted bridge into R&B while the platform remains central to arguments over consent, credit and compensation.
Dr. Dre recently joined the pro-AI side, saying he uses it to test what might happen to music he has already created.
“I think the only people that see it as a threat are the people who have trouble creating,” Dr. Dre said.
Jimmy Iovine offered a similarly blunt defense during their joint interview: “I’m very pro-AI in music creation. I don’t see the downside at all. There will be some crappy music. There’s crappy music now.”
SZA took the opposite position after a database checker showed 238 of her songs inside datasets assembled for AI music research.
“Jus checked and music AI has trained off 238 of my songs. I’m certain some unreleased,” SZA wrote.
She then condemned participating musicians: “If your a musician and you support this degenerate shit? Your disgusting and there’s NOTHING YOU COULD EVER SAY TO ME TO MAKE THIS OKAY.”
The database finding did not establish that Suno used every listed track, although SZA aimed much of her criticism at the company.
That anger followed Timbaland’s launch of Stage Zero, his AI entertainment company built around a synthetic performer created with Suno.
“She is not an avatar. She is not a character. TaTa is a living, learning, autonomous music artist built with AI,” Timbaland said.
Critics also questioned whether Timbaland trained AI with other artists’ music, an accusation he denied while defending his work with human artists.
Australia has now drawn an official boundary as Blige, Dr. Dre and Timbaland encourage experimentation while SZA demands stronger protections.
ARIA barred wholly AI-generated tracks from its charts, requiring that “humans wrote the song and performed the lead vocal and the primary instruments.”
The rules took effect August 31 and also make fully AI-generated recordings ineligible for the ARIA Awards.
Mary J. Blige has entered music’s AI war by starring in a new Suno advertisement, giving the controversial generator some serious R&B credibility.
The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul watches the platform turn written prompts into a polished record, then reacts as producers reshape its sound around her direction.
“Suno is a game changer. Imagine if we could write the words and make it be delivered any way we wanted…” Blige said.
Another clip catches her responding with pure enthusiasm: “Dope. This shit is amazing. I love bass. I love keys.”
Her participation also gives Suno a trusted bridge into R&B while the platform remains central to arguments over consent, credit and compensation.
Dr. Dre recently joined the pro-AI side, saying he uses it to test what might happen to music he has already created.
“I think the only people that see it as a threat are the people who have trouble creating,” Dr. Dre said.
Jimmy Iovine offered a similarly blunt defense during their joint interview: “I’m very pro-AI in music creation. I don’t see the downside at all. There will be some crappy music. There’s crappy music now.”
SZA took the opposite position after a database checker showed 238 of her songs inside datasets assembled for AI music research.
“Jus checked and music AI has trained off 238 of my songs. I’m certain some unreleased,” SZA wrote.
She then condemned participating musicians: “If your a musician and you support this degenerate shit? Your disgusting and there’s NOTHING YOU COULD EVER SAY TO ME TO MAKE THIS OKAY.”
The database finding did not establish that Suno used every listed track, although SZA aimed much of her criticism at the company.
That anger followed Timbaland’s launch of Stage Zero, his AI entertainment company built around a synthetic performer created with Suno.
“She is not an avatar. She is not a character. TaTa is a living, learning, autonomous music artist built with AI,” Timbaland said.
Critics also questioned whether Timbaland trained AI with other artists’ music, an accusation he denied while defending his work with human artists.
Australia has now drawn an official boundary as Blige, Dr. Dre and Timbaland encourage experimentation while SZA demands stronger protections.
ARIA barred wholly AI-generated tracks from its charts, requiring that “humans wrote the song and performed the lead vocal and the primary instruments.”
The rules took effect August 31 and also make fully AI-generated recordings ineligible for the ARIA Awards.
Colin Kaepernick Reportedly Makes Drastic Move and Pulls all of his Books from Target
For Colin Kaepernick, sports once offered an escape. It was a place where the noise around identity seemed to fade away. As a Black child adopted into a white family, he grew up navigating constant resistance to his sense of self. But the gridiron gave him a safe space, a world where he could simply be an athlete. Unfortunately, that refuge eventually cracked in the NFL, where he came face-to-face with the politics of sports and saw how much influence could be wielded behind the scenes by those holding power.
Kaepernick knew kneeling in 2016 would come at a cost, but he did it anyway. It was the last time he played for the NFL. Regardless of getting shunned, he has continued his work as a civil rights activist and is now set to publish ‘The Perilous Fight’. But before the book hits shelves, Kaepernick is making another statement. He is boycotting a retail giant.
According to journalist Van Lathan Jr., Colin Kaepernick’s upcoming memoir will not be sold at Target (net worth of $74 billion as of September 2026) when it arrives on September 15. Plus, his previously released children’s books are also being removed from the retailer’s shelves.
“Not only is this book not going to be available in Target, but Colin Kaepernick’s older children’s books that he had written are also being pulled from Target shelves,” Lathan Jr. said on Higher Learning on YouTube. “This apparently was something that wasn’t that easy to do, and it certainly will hurt the book sales of said book, but it was important to the Kaepernicks, important to the Kaepernick camp, and everything that he was doing to not have the book be available in Target.”
The former QB is distancing his publishing work from Target as activists continue their pressure campaign against the giant. Here’s why.
In January, the retail giant announced it would scale back its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. That also included a pledge to increase Black employee representation by 20%, and it goes without saying that the community felt betrayed. But the reason behind Kaepernick boycotting Target is not just the DEI. It’s deeper.
Lathan Jr. further added: “The Kaepernicks are standing solid with what they believe is a worthy and worthwhile effort by the black community to continue to hold Target accountable, but they’re not doing it because of the DEI stuff. They are doing it because of the costume.”
Not too long ago, Target found itself at the center of a customer backlash over a Halloween costume featuring a Black boy. The child appeared in a clown outfit that customers said resembled a minstrel caricature, complete with orange-and-black zigzag stripes and black gloves. The look was finished with a mask featuring an exaggerated grin and shockingly oversized teeth, sparking outrage among customers.
So, as Kaepernick prepares to release his 288-page memoir, published by Legacy Lit, an imprint of Hachette Book Group, this decision is important for his activism.
The book is scheduled for September 15 and revisits the experiences that shaped Kaepernick before and after his 2016 national anthem protest. The publisher described the work as a combination of memoir and manifesto.
In April, Kaepernick explained his decision to kneel was years in the making. He described growing up as “a Black kid navigating an identity the world didn’t always make space for.”
His growing awareness of injustice had shaped the path toward that moment.
And so, Kaepernick’s publishing platform has already positioned the memoir as a major personal statement. The book will be released in hardcover and ebook formats, while Kaepernick will narrate an audiobook scheduled to debut exclusively through Audible on the same date.
In the controversy that involved children’s Halloween costumes, critics said that it evoked racist visuals, which triggered renewed backlash, with the company apologizing and pulling the product from stores.
The financial scale of Target also shows why a publishing decision involving one author can become part of a much larger corporate conversation. Target reported $104.78 billion in net sales for 2025, although that figure was down by 1.7% from the previous year.
Target was also among the retailers where Kaepernick’s book could be preordered, alongside Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Bookshop, and Walmart. Removing one major retailer can also affect a book’s reach, even though other distribution channels remain available.
Rachel Lindsay, Lathan’s co-host, appreciated Kaepernick’s camp standing with the boycott. For Kaepernick, whose career has been linked with personal decisions to questions of racial justice and corporate accountability, the choice puts those principles directly against Target.
Kaepernick knew kneeling in 2016 would come at a cost, but he did it anyway. It was the last time he played for the NFL. Regardless of getting shunned, he has continued his work as a civil rights activist and is now set to publish ‘The Perilous Fight’. But before the book hits shelves, Kaepernick is making another statement. He is boycotting a retail giant.
According to journalist Van Lathan Jr., Colin Kaepernick’s upcoming memoir will not be sold at Target (net worth of $74 billion as of September 2026) when it arrives on September 15. Plus, his previously released children’s books are also being removed from the retailer’s shelves.
“Not only is this book not going to be available in Target, but Colin Kaepernick’s older children’s books that he had written are also being pulled from Target shelves,” Lathan Jr. said on Higher Learning on YouTube. “This apparently was something that wasn’t that easy to do, and it certainly will hurt the book sales of said book, but it was important to the Kaepernicks, important to the Kaepernick camp, and everything that he was doing to not have the book be available in Target.”
The former QB is distancing his publishing work from Target as activists continue their pressure campaign against the giant. Here’s why.
In January, the retail giant announced it would scale back its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. That also included a pledge to increase Black employee representation by 20%, and it goes without saying that the community felt betrayed. But the reason behind Kaepernick boycotting Target is not just the DEI. It’s deeper.
Lathan Jr. further added: “The Kaepernicks are standing solid with what they believe is a worthy and worthwhile effort by the black community to continue to hold Target accountable, but they’re not doing it because of the DEI stuff. They are doing it because of the costume.”
Not too long ago, Target found itself at the center of a customer backlash over a Halloween costume featuring a Black boy. The child appeared in a clown outfit that customers said resembled a minstrel caricature, complete with orange-and-black zigzag stripes and black gloves. The look was finished with a mask featuring an exaggerated grin and shockingly oversized teeth, sparking outrage among customers.
So, as Kaepernick prepares to release his 288-page memoir, published by Legacy Lit, an imprint of Hachette Book Group, this decision is important for his activism.
The book is scheduled for September 15 and revisits the experiences that shaped Kaepernick before and after his 2016 national anthem protest. The publisher described the work as a combination of memoir and manifesto.
In April, Kaepernick explained his decision to kneel was years in the making. He described growing up as “a Black kid navigating an identity the world didn’t always make space for.”
His growing awareness of injustice had shaped the path toward that moment.
And so, Kaepernick’s publishing platform has already positioned the memoir as a major personal statement. The book will be released in hardcover and ebook formats, while Kaepernick will narrate an audiobook scheduled to debut exclusively through Audible on the same date.
In the controversy that involved children’s Halloween costumes, critics said that it evoked racist visuals, which triggered renewed backlash, with the company apologizing and pulling the product from stores.
The financial scale of Target also shows why a publishing decision involving one author can become part of a much larger corporate conversation. Target reported $104.78 billion in net sales for 2025, although that figure was down by 1.7% from the previous year.
Target was also among the retailers where Kaepernick’s book could be preordered, alongside Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Bookshop, and Walmart. Removing one major retailer can also affect a book’s reach, even though other distribution channels remain available.
Rachel Lindsay, Lathan’s co-host, appreciated Kaepernick’s camp standing with the boycott. For Kaepernick, whose career has been linked with personal decisions to questions of racial justice and corporate accountability, the choice puts those principles directly against Target.
Daejon Love who posed as 49ers player faces federal charges for allegedly defrauding dozens of women
Federal authorities have arrested and charged two men, one of whom repeatedly posed as a San Francisco 49ers player, for defrauding more than two dozen women out of about $1.3 million.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office in the District of Oregon and court documents, the FBI arrested Daejon Love, 35, and Taylor Jamie Chan, 18, on Aug. 24 in Boise, Idaho, and charged the duo with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud.
The U.S. Attorney's Office said in a release that Love and Chan began their scheme in February 2022 with Love meeting multiple women through dating apps. In those dating profiles and on social media, Love created "fictitious personas," including repeatedly presenting himself as a member of the 49ers or a wealthy real estate investor. Among the pseudonyms Love used: Jon Love, Daejon Love, Avril Lyto Love and Jordan Love.
Those efforts spanned more than four years with Love and Chan creating fictitious investments to defraud women in California, Idaho, Washington and Oregon. Love would meet the women online with Chan posing as his financial advisor.
"Love convinced many of the victims they were in sincere romantic relationships with Love, that he was a sophisticated investor, and that Chan was his investment adviser who helped Love grow a fortune worth tens of millions of dollars," the U.S. Attorney's Office statement said. "Love had romantic relationships with many of the victims and told them he wanted to build wealth and a future together. Love advertised nonexistent investment vehicles and claimed these investments would generate massive returns for both him and his victims."
The statement said Love also used apps to create fake bank and investment accounts and balances, which he would show to victims to "legitimize the scheme."
To bolster those efforts, Love and Chan also exchanged messages about investment opportunities with Chan posing as Love's adviser. Love would then share screenshots with the victims to send money to either he or Chan. According to documents, some of the victims also loaned Love large amounts of money and if they didn't have money to loan, he'd ask them to take out personal loans with the promise of repayment.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Love would block communications with women once they either ran out of money or asked too many questions about it. None of the victims interviewed said they received any money for their investments, repayments or any account information.
Financial records show that Love and Chan received about $1.3 million from the 26 victims the FBI identified, though the FBI believes there are "many more victims."
The FBI issued arrest warrants and criminal complaints against Love and Chan on Aug. 17, 2026, in Oregon. On Monday, Chan flew from California to meet Love in Boise where the FBI and other law enforcement arrested the duo at the Boise airport. Love and Chan are in federal custody in Boise.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office in the District of Oregon and court documents, the FBI arrested Daejon Love, 35, and Taylor Jamie Chan, 18, on Aug. 24 in Boise, Idaho, and charged the duo with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud.
The U.S. Attorney's Office said in a release that Love and Chan began their scheme in February 2022 with Love meeting multiple women through dating apps. In those dating profiles and on social media, Love created "fictitious personas," including repeatedly presenting himself as a member of the 49ers or a wealthy real estate investor. Among the pseudonyms Love used: Jon Love, Daejon Love, Avril Lyto Love and Jordan Love.
Those efforts spanned more than four years with Love and Chan creating fictitious investments to defraud women in California, Idaho, Washington and Oregon. Love would meet the women online with Chan posing as his financial advisor.
"Love convinced many of the victims they were in sincere romantic relationships with Love, that he was a sophisticated investor, and that Chan was his investment adviser who helped Love grow a fortune worth tens of millions of dollars," the U.S. Attorney's Office statement said. "Love had romantic relationships with many of the victims and told them he wanted to build wealth and a future together. Love advertised nonexistent investment vehicles and claimed these investments would generate massive returns for both him and his victims."
The statement said Love also used apps to create fake bank and investment accounts and balances, which he would show to victims to "legitimize the scheme."
To bolster those efforts, Love and Chan also exchanged messages about investment opportunities with Chan posing as Love's adviser. Love would then share screenshots with the victims to send money to either he or Chan. According to documents, some of the victims also loaned Love large amounts of money and if they didn't have money to loan, he'd ask them to take out personal loans with the promise of repayment.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Love would block communications with women once they either ran out of money or asked too many questions about it. None of the victims interviewed said they received any money for their investments, repayments or any account information.
Financial records show that Love and Chan received about $1.3 million from the 26 victims the FBI identified, though the FBI believes there are "many more victims."
The FBI issued arrest warrants and criminal complaints against Love and Chan on Aug. 17, 2026, in Oregon. On Monday, Chan flew from California to meet Love in Boise where the FBI and other law enforcement arrested the duo at the Boise airport. Love and Chan are in federal custody in Boise.
Selena's Brother A.B. Has Filed a Lawsuit Against His Sister, Suzette
Abraham Isaac “A.B.” Quintanilla III, the older brother of the late singer-songwriter Selena, has confirmed that he is taking legal action against his sister, Suzette Quintanilla-Arriaga.
In a post shared on Instagram, in both Spanish and English, A.B. said that he received “numerous calls and inquiries” about a potential lawsuit against his sister and decided to publicly clarify the situation.
“Yes, there is a lawsuit related to Suzette Arriaga, as well as to facts and circumstances related to my father, Abraham Quintanilla,” he wrote, as seen in the post below. Their father died late last year at the age of 86.
“The lawsuit is part of a process that began a few months ago, but what led me to this point did not start a few months ago,” he continued. “It comes from years. Years of accumulated situations, decisions and circumstances that for a long time I chose to keep silent out of respect, out of loyalty, and above all, because it involved my own family… There are things I have discovered and experienced during this process that have deeply impacted me.”
He said that he will not be granting interviews or “entering into details of the case at this time,” but suggested there’s “years of history” to back up his case.
“When the right time comes, I will speak,” he added. “I will share my complete version and explain why I had to get to this point. I will do it personally, with clarity and backing up my words with what corresponds… When the time is right, I will tell it.”
It’s unclear what, exactly, A.B. is suing his sister over, but the news comes after she filed a lawsuit against SHEIN earlier this year for an alleged bootleg featuring Selena’s unauthorized image.
In a post shared on Instagram, in both Spanish and English, A.B. said that he received “numerous calls and inquiries” about a potential lawsuit against his sister and decided to publicly clarify the situation.
“Yes, there is a lawsuit related to Suzette Arriaga, as well as to facts and circumstances related to my father, Abraham Quintanilla,” he wrote, as seen in the post below. Their father died late last year at the age of 86.
“The lawsuit is part of a process that began a few months ago, but what led me to this point did not start a few months ago,” he continued. “It comes from years. Years of accumulated situations, decisions and circumstances that for a long time I chose to keep silent out of respect, out of loyalty, and above all, because it involved my own family… There are things I have discovered and experienced during this process that have deeply impacted me.”
He said that he will not be granting interviews or “entering into details of the case at this time,” but suggested there’s “years of history” to back up his case.
“When the right time comes, I will speak,” he added. “I will share my complete version and explain why I had to get to this point. I will do it personally, with clarity and backing up my words with what corresponds… When the time is right, I will tell it.”
It’s unclear what, exactly, A.B. is suing his sister over, but the news comes after she filed a lawsuit against SHEIN earlier this year for an alleged bootleg featuring Selena’s unauthorized image.
Mel Gibson Apologizes for Mocking ASL Interpreter, Puts it Down to 'Thoughtless Idiocy'
Mel Gibson apologized after making rapid, exaggerated hand gestures behind an ASL interpreter during a Fan Expo Canada panel in Toronto.
Gibson called the moment "spontaneous thoughtless idiocy," denied any malicious intent, and apologized to anyone upset by it.
The viral clip drew sharp backlash, with deaf community members saying the mockery undermined efforts to have ASL recognized and taken seriously.
Mel Gibson has apologized for seemingly mocking an ASL interpreter onstage at Fan Expo Canada over the weekend.
The incident occurred Saturday (August 29) at the Toronto convention, where the actor joined a panel moderated by Liam Crowley. As Gibson walked onstage, he briefly stopped behind the interpreter, turned to face the crowd, and launched into a series of rapid, exaggerated hand gestures before shaking Crowley's hand and taking his seat.
Gibson issued a statement to Page Six addressing the clip. "Sometimes when you get pushed out on a stage in a spotlight your mind is all over the place, and sometimes spontaneous thoughtless idiocy is displayed," he said. "There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologize to anyone who was upset by it."
The response online saw social media users call Gibson "despicable" and "a gross human being," while members of the deaf community framed the moment as a setback for ASL's ongoing push for recognition.
"Always disappointing to see my language mocked," one ASL community member wrote. "We work hard to get our language recognized and be taken seriously."
Gibson called the moment "spontaneous thoughtless idiocy," denied any malicious intent, and apologized to anyone upset by it.
The viral clip drew sharp backlash, with deaf community members saying the mockery undermined efforts to have ASL recognized and taken seriously.
Mel Gibson has apologized for seemingly mocking an ASL interpreter onstage at Fan Expo Canada over the weekend.
The incident occurred Saturday (August 29) at the Toronto convention, where the actor joined a panel moderated by Liam Crowley. As Gibson walked onstage, he briefly stopped behind the interpreter, turned to face the crowd, and launched into a series of rapid, exaggerated hand gestures before shaking Crowley's hand and taking his seat.
Gibson issued a statement to Page Six addressing the clip. "Sometimes when you get pushed out on a stage in a spotlight your mind is all over the place, and sometimes spontaneous thoughtless idiocy is displayed," he said. "There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologize to anyone who was upset by it."
The response online saw social media users call Gibson "despicable" and "a gross human being," while members of the deaf community framed the moment as a setback for ASL's ongoing push for recognition.
"Always disappointing to see my language mocked," one ASL community member wrote. "We work hard to get our language recognized and be taken seriously."
Lionel Messi Announces Retirement From Argentina National Team
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team.
The 39-year-old soccer star shared this update just a few weeks after the World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium, where Argentina came in second place.
Read Lionel Messi’s full retirement announcement
Messi shared this text in Spanish, and it is translated to English here.
After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the National Team…
It was a decision that hurt—and still hurts deep down—but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all—not just in these recent years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.
Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the National Team. I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve their chance.
Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I’ll be just one of you, cheering and supporting from the outside—through the good times and the bad (especially the bad).
Thank you to my family for always being there and for accompanying me on this journey—beautiful, yet difficult. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and official I’ve shared this path with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.
I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you—alongside my teammates—moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all. I love you!
Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.
Let’s go, Argentina!
Lionel Messi’s decision comes a few weeks after the death of his father
Jorge Messi, who was also his son’s agent, died Friday (August 7) at a hospital in his native Rosario, Argentina, after a prolonged illness. He was 68 years old.
The 39-year-old soccer star shared this update just a few weeks after the World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium, where Argentina came in second place.
Read Lionel Messi’s full retirement announcement
Messi shared this text in Spanish, and it is translated to English here.
After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the National Team…
It was a decision that hurt—and still hurts deep down—but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all—not just in these recent years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.
Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the National Team. I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve their chance.
Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I’ll be just one of you, cheering and supporting from the outside—through the good times and the bad (especially the bad).
Thank you to my family for always being there and for accompanying me on this journey—beautiful, yet difficult. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and official I’ve shared this path with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.
I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you—alongside my teammates—moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all. I love you!
Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.
Let’s go, Argentina!
Lionel Messi’s decision comes a few weeks after the death of his father
Jorge Messi, who was also his son’s agent, died Friday (August 7) at a hospital in his native Rosario, Argentina, after a prolonged illness. He was 68 years old.
Nicki Minaj Lands New Role With Trump Administration, Will Judge $1 Million Business Competition
Nicki Minaj is taking on a new role as a judge, years after her stint on American Idol – and this time, it’s for Donald Trump‘s administration.
What Is Nicki Minaj’s New Role With the Trump Administration?
The 43-year-old Queen rapper is set to appear on a celebrity panel to judge five entrepreneurs competing for a share of a $1 million prize pool, according to Fox News.
“As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, the SBA (Small Business Administration) is celebrating America’s legacy of free enterprise through the Million Dollar Pitch Competition—a historic live event showcasing the essential contributions of America’s small businesses,” SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler explained to the news outlet.
Here’s how it works:
U.S. entrepreneurs submitted ideas earlier in 2026, and there are five finalists remaining to pitch their ideas live in front of a celebrity panel on September 18 in Washington, D.C.
Nicki will join entrepreneur and private equity fund manager Grant Cardone and Airbnb co-founder and U.S. Chief Design Office Joe Gebbia to judge the competition, while actor Dean Cain will host the event.
“Their participation brings invaluable real-world perspective as our five exceptional finalists compete for a share of $1 million in growth capital. I look forward to joining them next month as we recognize the innovators and job creators who power American strength,” the SBA Administrator added.
The five finalists are:
Defense technology company Compotech, Inc. in Brewer, Maine
Metalworking machinery manufacturer Winton Machine in Suwanee, Georgia
Plastic mold manufacturing company Plas-Tech Tooling in Garner, Iowa
Pressure vessel manufacturer Red River in Gillette, Wyoming
Machinery manufacturing firm VetPowered LLC in San Diego, California
How Much Money Will the Winners Receive?
The first-place winner gets $400,000, with second place winning $250,000, third place getting $150,000 and fourth place taking home $125,000, with fifth place receiving $75,000.
Nicki Minaj previously revealed when she began quietly supporting Donald Trump and explained what ultimately prompted her to speak out publicly.
Nicki Minaj is taking on a new role as a judge, years after her stint on American Idol – and this time, it’s for Donald Trump‘s administration.
What Is Nicki Minaj’s New Role With the Trump Administration?
The 43-year-old Queen rapper is set to appear on a celebrity panel to judge five entrepreneurs competing for a share of a $1 million prize pool, according to Fox News.
“As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, the SBA (Small Business Administration) is celebrating America’s legacy of free enterprise through the Million Dollar Pitch Competition—a historic live event showcasing the essential contributions of America’s small businesses,” SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler explained to the news outlet.
Here’s how it works:
U.S. entrepreneurs submitted ideas earlier in 2026, and there are five finalists remaining to pitch their ideas live in front of a celebrity panel on September 18 in Washington, D.C.
Nicki will join entrepreneur and private equity fund manager Grant Cardone and Airbnb co-founder and U.S. Chief Design Office Joe Gebbia to judge the competition, while actor Dean Cain will host the event.
“Their participation brings invaluable real-world perspective as our five exceptional finalists compete for a share of $1 million in growth capital. I look forward to joining them next month as we recognize the innovators and job creators who power American strength,” the SBA Administrator added.
The five finalists are:
Defense technology company Compotech, Inc. in Brewer, Maine
Metalworking machinery manufacturer Winton Machine in Suwanee, Georgia
Plastic mold manufacturing company Plas-Tech Tooling in Garner, Iowa
Pressure vessel manufacturer Red River in Gillette, Wyoming
Machinery manufacturing firm VetPowered LLC in San Diego, California
How Much Money Will the Winners Receive?
The first-place winner gets $400,000, with second place winning $250,000, third place getting $150,000 and fourth place taking home $125,000, with fifth place receiving $75,000.
Nicki Minaj previously revealed when she began quietly supporting Donald Trump and explained what ultimately prompted her to speak out publicly.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Royal Rumble at self checkout
Some people have strong feelings about not bringing your own reusable bags...
AND NOW Meet:Robby XL
It's Robby! You can see more HERE
DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.
Enjoy!
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
