6/30/19

The Daily Buzz For July 1 ☕📰☕


Idris Elba for Vanity Fair! Talks about people don't want him to be James Bond
“Should Idris Elba play James Bond?” is a question that tends to bubble up into the public consciousness every few years, regardless of where the next James Bond movie is in its development. The question is generally accompanied by a big fan campaign to get Elba cast as Bond—even if there is already someone playing Bond and the new Bond movie is already being filmed—as well as a similarly big backlash from people who, for some reason, don’t want to Idris Elba sipping on martinis, objectifying women, and driving Aston Martins. Seriously, though, it’s pretty obvious that the reason that some people are so opposed to this idea is that Idris Elba is Black, while James Bond has always been played by a white guy—ergo, “James Bond is supposed to be white” even though that’s stupid.
Anyway, speaking with Vanity Fair, Elba now says he gets “disheartened” when he hears about people saying he can’t play a certain role just because he’s Black, especially since that could impact the way the movie is received. “If I get it and it didn’t work, or it did work, would ie be because of the color of my skin? That’s a difficult position to put myself into when I don’t need to.” It’s an understandable concern, and a situation that the 2016 Ghostbusters movie had to deal with when it failed to become much of a hit, but it doesn’t sound like Elba’s willing to let racist naysayers scare him off of playing James Bond.

He admits that he’s never officially expressed any interest in the character, but he’d say yes if they asked him. “Of course, if someone said to me ‘Do you want to play James Bond?,’ I’d be like, Yeah! That’s fascinating to me. But it’s not something I’ve expressed, like, yeah, I wanna be the Black James Bond.”
Get more at Vanity Fair HERE 


Lil Nas X Comes Out in Pride Post
Lil Nas X celebrated the end of Pride Month by sharing something huge. In a Twitter post, the rapper asked fans to go listen to a track off of his recent EP 7 with fresh ears 
"Some of y’all already know, some of y’all don’t care, some of y’all not gone fwm no more. but before this month ends i want y’all to listen closely to c7osure," he said in a post that ended with rainbow and sparkle emojis. 
The lyrics to "c7osure" are incredibly vague. Flower Boy it is not.  But with a little nudge, it's easy to see how it could be a song about the struggle to come out. 

“Brand new places I’ll choose and I’ll go, I know / Embracin’ this news I behold unfolding," he raps. "I know, I know, I know it don’t feel like it’s time / But I look back at this moment, I’ll see that I’m fine.”
People, as well as other musicians, were fully behind Nas and praised him for sharing the post to his fanbase. 

Lil Nas X also engaged with fans who tweeted out jokes.
"lmaoo," Nas X wrote when a Twitter user joked that he couldn't be a fan of his any more due to his affinity for beaches.
I can’t be a fan of you now I know you like the beach

All in all Lil Nas X has been having an amazing year. He dropped off his debut EP and has been doing extremely well on the charts with his viral hit "Old Town Road."



#RHOA: NeNe Leakes READS Cynthia Bailey calling her ‘WEAK’ As she signs a new contract for RHOA!
NeNe Leakes wasted no time stomping on former friend and fellow cast member Cynthia Bailey as soon as she signed a new contract to remain on Season 12 of the “Real Housewives of Atlanta.”
As Leakes is prepared to appear with Andy Cohen, Bailey and other Bravo personalities to appear on the Bravo float for a pride parade, Leakes sat down with Lore’l of “The Morning Hustle” to throw more shade at Bailey for allegedly backstabbing her.

Leakes said she plans to remain cordial to Bailey, but she intimates she will never get over Bailey’s disloyalty.
“No, I do not plan to talk to her. I feel sorry for her. I can say ‘Hello.’ I can stand beside her.”
Leakes believes Bailey has allowed herself to be ensnared in the trap of doing desperate things to have a storyline and remain relevant on the show.
“I was a friend to her. No matter what the show portrayed. She knows that and I know that. I feel like she was a friend to me and I feel like I was a friend to her. I feel like she has definitely fallen victim — she needs to do whatever she needs to do to stay on the show. And I’m not that girl. I’m never going to do whatever I need to do to stay on the show.”

Leakes also believes that the behind-the-scenes whispering from producers got Bailey out of character.
“I’m this kinda girl. If you are my girl, if we down — we down. Now, the producers ain’t gonna be able to tell me nothing and they know they ain’t gonna be able to tell me nothing. They would be able to come to me and be like ‘You need to turn on Cynthia’ and I’d be like ‘You know that ain’t never going to happen.'”

In the end, Bailey was not strong enough to stand up to Bravo execs not to betray her friend, Leakes claims.
“They can tell her that though, because she’s weaker. She’s definitely weak. She’s doing whatever she needs to do. She looks really desperate. Gurl Bye!


#Empire: Jussie Smollett Has unfollowed ‘Empire’ director Lee Daniels on Social Media!
In a move that appears to signal feelings of betrayal and abandonment, ex-“Empire” actor Jussie Smollett has unfollowed his former boss who made him a household name through the weekly drama series.
According to TheJasmineBrand, Smollett stopped following “Empire” creator, producer and director Lee Daniels this past week.

There were a couple of recent developments that may have precipitated the move. Daniels seemed to equivocate in a June 2019 interview with Vulture about whether or not he believes Smollett actually staged a homophobic and racist beatdown hoax back in January 2019.
In fact, Daniels conceded to the magazine that he was “beyond embarrassed” that he jumped to defend Smollett so quickly and unconditionally in the beginning, but that he really didn’t know if Smollett was lying or not.
Secondly, Daniels admitted that he had to cut the figurative umbilical cord between him and Smollett after a while because the controversy was causing so much emotional volatility that spilled over into his personal life and on the “Empire” set.
Daniels also definitively closed the book on Smollett regarding his participation in the sixth and final season of “Empire,” telling fans on Twitter that Smollett will not return under any circumstances.

“This is not factual. Jussie will not be returning to Empire,” he said emphatically.
Daniels, however, continues to follow Smollett.


#NewMusic Stream Chris Brown’s ‘Indigo’
Chris Brown's Indigo album is here. Brown unleashed his follow-up to Heartbreak on a Full Moon on Friday (June 28), as he made sure to not leave his fans with any shortage of content. The double-disc album boasts 32 tracks in total and has a runtime of over two hours of CB teaming with a talented ensemble of guests. 

Brown enlists H.E.R., Lil Jon, Lil Wayne, Trey Songz, Tory Lanez, Joyner Lucas, Tyga, Drake, Nicki Minaj, Juicy J, Justin Bieber, plus more for smooth assists on the expansive set.  
Chris Brown Announces IndiGOAT Tour With Ty Dolla $ign, Tory Lanez & Joyner Lucas
"#INDIGO THE ALBUM IS AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE NOW! Thank you to all my fans for the support and love," the pop star wrote in a note thanking fans on Instagram. "Thank you to all the producers and the writers and everybody who made this project possible! Link in bio for all streaming services. I MIGHT 

Stream Indigo HERE



#NewHipHop from Nipsey Hussle’s ‘Perfect Ten’ Collaboration With Mustard
Following DJ Khaled and John Legend’s “Higher,” Mustard debuts his Perfect Ten collaboration with the Crenshaw legend, which serves as the title track off his new album.

The stripped-down production is a powerful tribute to the slain MC, who explains his Marathon movement. “That’s why I call my thing the Marathon because I’m not gonna lie and portray this ultimate poise, like I been had it figured out,” says Nipsey. “Nah, I just didn’t quit. That’s the only distinguishing quality.”
The fallen hero also shares his journey (“I went through every emotion trying to pursue what I did”) and praises YG (“I think protest music is important. I think that YG was a genius”).

LISTEN HERE

In addition to Nipsey, Perfect Ten features collaborations with YG, Ella Mai, Ty Dolla $ign, Future, Meek Mill, A$AP Rocky, Playboi Carti, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Young Thug, Gunna, and more.


The Queen Janet Jackson at Glastonbury does a seamless glide through her biggest hits
It’s not quite six o’clock when Janet Jackson appears on the Pyramid Stage – unusual, perhaps, for an artist of her renown. Jackson certainly seems to think so herself; perhaps unhappy with her position on the bill, she announced her appearance at Worthy Farm by doctoring the official poster. Media outlets gleefully reported Jackson’s team’s audacious decision to move her name to top left billing. 

Jackson is a cultural powerhouse: both a veteran live performer and a match-fit one – it’s clear that today’s meticulously rehearsed performance comes after a run of acclaimed shows in Las Vegas. Despite a slightly late start, the show kicks off with business-like professionalism, Jackson rising through the floor of a raised platform on the (otherwise simple) stage. There’s something sleekly superhuman about Jackson’s stage presence: from her flaw-free skin (Jackson is 53, and gave birth to her first child at 50) to her micro-choreographed movements. Dressed in a heavy black cowl neck with patent leather shoulder detailing and enormous matching boots, she gestures with laser-like precision: every finger wag, head tilt and narrowed eye is deliberate.

Her back catalogue flirts with diverse musical styles. There’s the industrial beats on opener “Trust to Try”, the provocative funk of “What Have You Done For Me Lately” and the warm, bright pop of “All For You”. Janet glides through them all seamlessly, from the crisp, sharp and sexual choreography on “If” (including a moment where Jackson puts the head of a male dancer between her legs) to head-banging and bottom-lip-biting air guitar on “Black Cat”. Even her most recent release, 2018’s “Made For Now”, feels right at home, and proves as popular with the crowd as any of her classic hits. The setlist is front-loaded with some of her most famous songs thanks to a medley that includes “What Have You Done For Me Lately”, “Control”, “Nasty”, “The Best Things In Life Are Free” and “All For You”, but it’s a credit to Jackson’s career that she doesn’t run out of hits.

WATCH HERE

Over the past few years, Jackson’s live performances and her oeuvre have been reassessed with new admiration and a sense that, until now, her many contributions to the musical landscape have been overlooked. In March, she was conducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. There are no mentions to her brother Michael tonight (their collaboration “Scream” is absent from the setlist), other than a brief moment where she references “my brothers, the Jacksons”, incorporating moves from the Jackson 5’s career and the “Thriller” video into a dance break. At the best of times, it’s a challenge to walk in the footsteps of a more influential sibling, even more so when their cultural footprint is being seriously reconsidered. But Jackson has always been able to refuse to bear the burdens of her family’s history, despite its enormous weight.


Zoe Kravitz Weds Karl Glusman In Paris
Zoe Kravitz is officially a married woman! The “Big Little Lies” star exchanged vows with actor Karl Glusman on Saturday at her daddy Lenny Kravitz‘s home in French City.
Zoe and Karl have been dating since 2016 and they got engaged two years later.
The newlyweds have not publicly confirmed their nuptials, but the proud father of the bride shared a photo of him hugging his baby girl at her rehearsal dinner at the Restaurant Lapérouse.
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Glusman.


New Whitney Houston Song Released 7 Years After Her Death

It’s been more than 7 years since the shocking and tragic death of Whitney Houston. But it’s safe to say her legacy lives on and will continue to be a staple in the music and pop culture industry.
DJ and producer Kygo released the new song called “Higher Love.”
The remix is a cover of the previously released bonus track featured on Houston’s I’m Your Baby Tonight album back in 1990. It was only released in Japan at the time. Houston covered the original from singer Steve Winwood’s song that was released in 1986.
Now, Kygo will be performing the song Sunday at the PrideFest Utopia in New York City.

He said, “I was honored when the Whitney Houston estate reached out and presented me with the opportunity to work with one of the greatest female vocalists of all time. I reworked the song from scratch and am really happy with how it turned out!”
And fortunately for him, Houston’s family is all for it. Her sister-in-law Pat Houston added,
“The Estate of Whitney E. Houston and our new partner Primary Wave are delighted with the collaboration between Kygo and Whitney. We knew Kygo would be the right producer to enhance Whitney’s powerful vocal performance on ‘Higher Love,’ to the standards and expectations that Whitney’s fans have recognized for over three decades.”
“The resurgence of this precious archival performance will carry Whitney’s musical legacy on to a younger generation for years to come,” the statement continues. “Everyone should be ready to dance to this uplifting and inspiring record — a testament to Kygo’s incredible talent, and a reminder of why we fell in love with Whitney from the very beginning!”

Houston’s long-time producer Clive Davis also said, “When [producer] Narada Michael Walden sent me ‘Higher Love’ with the Whitney vocal, we didn’t want her being a cover artist at that time. The only place it was released was as a bonus cut in Japan.”

The song ended up staying hidden until Houston’s estate started considering putting out unreleased music for her fans. They ultimately allowed Kygo, who worked on classics like Marvin Gaye’s Sexual Healing to take the reins on it.

Check out the song HERE



The New York Yankees Had a complete sweep of Red Sox in high-scoring London Series
LONDON – Saturday night London Stadium played like Coors Field souped up on PEDs.
Less than 24 hours later, in cooler temperatures but consistent sun, things were somewhat different.

But not dramatically.   After Stephen Tarpley allowed three home runs in a four-run first, the Yankees gradually chipped away, then erupted with a nine-run seventh that propelled them to a 12-8 victory to complete a two-game sweep of the London Series.
The Yankees (54-28), winners in 13 of their last 14 games, increased their lead in the AL East over the third-place Red Sox (44-40), whose bullpen proved equally bad on both sides of the Atlantic, to 11 games. The Bombers entered the day seven games clear of the second-place Rays.

Gary Sanchez, without a hit in the series, snapped the mini-skid with a two-run single in the seventh, an inning in which the Yankees sent 14 to the plate, to make it 5-4. Gio Urshela’s two-run single later in the inning made it 7-4 and improved the infielder to 5-for-7 with 12 RBI this season with the bases loaded. D.J. LeMahieu, coming off a four-hit, five-RBI performance the night before, started the rally with a single. He came up again with the bases loaded and delivered a two-run double, improving the infielder to 35-for-72 this season with runners in scoring position (8-for-10 with the bases loaded).

Taking the mound with a 12-4 lead in the eighth, Chance Adams helped put the Red Sox back into it, necessitating Zack Britton to come on in the inning. Britton allowed a Sam Travis hit and walk to Mookie Betts, loading the bases for Rafael Devers, the tying run. After falling behind 3-and-0, Devers grounded weakly to first to end the threat.  
Those in the sellout crowd Sunday had a similar experience to those in attendance Saturday night when the Yankees won, 17-13, in the third-longest nine-inning game in big-league history (4 hours, 42 minutes), a slugfest that saw the teams combine for 37 hits, including six homers (three by each club).
The teams totaled 28 hits in Sunday’s four-plus hour slog and, oddly, given how the ball flew in the ballpark, the Yankees hit just one homer. It was a solo shot in the eighth that made it 12-4 and extended the Yankees MLB record home-run streak to 31 games.  
After the Red Sox launched three in the first off Tarpley – Xander Bogaerts and J.D. Martinez went back-to-back and Christian Vazquez added the third – Yankees pitching shut the door, until Adams’ came on.  

That group, to the surprise of more than a few, was led by Luis Cessa. The righthander, who brought a 5.11 ERA into the game, allowed four hits and struck out two over four scoreless innings.
The Yankees quickly responded to Boston’s homer splurge. Edwin Encarnacion led off the second against Red Sox lefthander Eduardo Rodriguez with a walk, Didi Gregorius, who had three RBIs Saturday, reached on an infield single and Gleyber Torres walked to load the bases for Gio Urshela. The third baseman grounded to short but the Red Sox were sloppy trying to turn the double play, only able to record one out as Encarnacion scored to make it 4-1. Brett Gardner, who also had three RBIs Saturday, then scorched a grounder on this concrete-like turf that skipped into the outfield, the RBI single making it 4-2. Rodriguez pitched well otherwise, allowing those two runs and four hits over 5 1/3 effective innings.


Taylor Swift Is 'Sad & Grossed Out' That Scooter Braun Bought Her Master Recordings
Taylor Swift is reacting to the news that Scooter Braun has purchased her former label Big Machine Label Group.
It was announced on Sunday morning (June 30) that the music manager had bought the company for $300 million, including all of the master recordings from artists, past and present.

All of Taylor‘s albums and master recordings up until her soon to be released album Lover, are owned by Big Machine, and now Scooter, and the singer took to her Tumblr page to share her disgust.

“For years I asked, pleaded for a chance to own my work. Instead I was given an opportunity to sign back up to Big Machine Records and ‘earn’ one album back at a time, one for every new one I turned in,” Taylor wrote. “I walked away because I knew once I signed that contract, Scott Borchetta would sell the label, thereby selling me and my future. I had to make the excruciating choice to leave behind my past. Music I wrote on my bedroom floor and videos I dreamed up and paid for from the money I earned playing in bars, then clubs, then arenas, then stadiums.”
“This is my worst case scenario. This is what happens when you sign a deal at fifteen to someone for whom the term ‘loyalty’ is clearly just a contractual concept. And when that man says ‘Music has value’, he means its value is beholden to men who had no part in creating it,” she added.

#BoxOfficeNews: The Toys are still in control! 'Toy Story 4' is #1 Over 'Annabelle' 
New releases have seen some struggles as of late, with several summer sequels debuting well below expectations and this weekend sees yet another sequel in Annabelle Comes Home attempting to avoid a similar fate. On top of that, Universal unveils an original project in Danny Boyle's Yesterday looking to ride a wave of positivity into the weekend.

At the top of the charts, look for Disney and Pixar's Toy Story 4 to repeat at #1. Looking at past Toy Story releases the second wide weekend has seen a range of performances, but we're looking specifically at Toy Story 3's -46% second weekend drop as well as Incredibles 2 and Finding Dory, which dropped -56% and -46% respectively. Given Toy Story 4's debut hues a bit closer to Toy Story 3 and Dory we're leaning more toward anticipating a similar, -46% drop this weekend, which would result in a sophomore performance over $65 million, pushing the film's domestic gross over $240 million by the end of the weekend.

In the runner-up position we come to Warner Bros. and New Line's Annabelle Comes Home, marking the third film in the Annabelle franchise and sixth official entry into The Conjuring franchise. The film began playing in theaters on Wednesday with Tuesday night previews beginning at 6PM, where the film generated an impressive $3.5 million. However, that only translated into a $7.2 million opening day along with a "B-" CinemaScore, the lowest of the franchise.

Speaking of the franchise, the past two Annabelle releases have opened with $37 and $35 million and heading into the weekend the studio was anticipating a five-day performance for this third installment around $30 million. While that still remains a possibility, given the film's start, it seems unlikely.

In terms of comps, looking at films such as The First Purge, which debuted on a Wednesday last July, it brought in $9.3 million on its opening day and climbed to over $31 million for the five-day. Terminator: Genisys brought in $8.9 million on its opening day in July 2015, and finished the weekend with over $42 million. While Annabelle's preview performance outperformed The First Purge, it's opening day is noticeably short, suggesting a five-day performance around $25-27 million is most likely.

Universal's high concept feature Yesterday is looking at a third place finish, though it could be anywhere from a respectable $11-14 million, or perhaps climb as high as $17 million and move into second place for the weekend. Directed by Danny Boyle, we've had a bit of a hard time finding a direct comp, though films such as I Feel Pretty and Isn't It Romantic come to mind in terms of concept, while the likes of Long Shot, Book Club and The Intern seem like solid audience comps. A look at IMDb page view data for all of those comps is positive, the only thing that has us slightly hesitating on going too high with our forecast right now is the theater count.

All of the comps mentioned, outside of Book Club — which opened over Mother's Day weekend — debuted in over 3,000 locations with I Feel Pretty debuting in nearly 3,500 theaters. Yesterday is looking at only a 2,603 location launch, which has us anticipating an opening around $12+ million, which actually feels a bit conservative. Additional analysis suggests a debut closer to $14 million and if it can truly maximize on its theater selection, an opening even higher wouldn't surprise us in the least.

Disney's Aladdin continues its strong and steady performance as it enters its sixth weekend in release. Right now we're looking for a -30% dip or so this weekend, which would give the film a $9+ million three-day as it's domestic total climbs over $305 million.

Rounding out the top five look for The Secret Life of Pets 2, looking at a drop around -38% or so, and a three-day over $6 million for a domestic cume right around $130 million by the end of the weekend.


Mayor Of Kyoto Asks Kim Kardashian To Reconsider Her Bid To Trademark “Kimono”
The mayor of the Japanese city of Kyoto has written an open letter to Kim Kardashian in the hopes of persuading her to change her mind on her controversial bid to trademark “Kimono.”

In a letter posted to the city’s website, Daisaku Kadokawa writes, “Dear Ms. Kim Kardashian West, I am writing this letter to convey our thoughts on Kimono and ask you to reconsider your decision of using the name Kimono in your trademark.”

Mayor Kadokawa continued in his letter, “Kimono is a traditional ethnic dress fostered in our rich nature and history with our predecessors’ tireless endeavors and studies, and it is a culture that has been cherished and passed down with care in our living. Also, it is a fruit of craftsmanship and truly symbolizes sense of beauty, spirits and values of Japanese.”

According to the Blast, the reality star announced earlier this week her plans to trademark the name and released a statement to The NY Times addressing the backlash by saying she had no desire “to design or release any garments that would in any way resemble or dishonor the traditional garment.”

Kardashian made it very clear in her statement that she has no plans to change the name of her company adding, “I made the decision to name my company Kimono, not to disassociate the word from its Japanese roots but as a nod to the beauty and detail that goes into a garment. Filing a trademark is a source identifier that will allow me to use the word for my shapewear and intimates line but does not preclude or restrict anyone, in this instance, from making kimonos or using the word kimono in reference to the traditional garment. My solution wear brand is built with inclusivity and diversity at its core and I’m incredibly proud of what’s to come.”


9/11 first responder and advocate Luis Alvarez dies at 53 by complications of cancer
NEW YORK - Luis Alvarez, a retired NYPD bomb squad detective who described for Congress his medical issues during an impassioned appeal for an extension of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, died Saturday in a hospice in New York. He was 53.

His death from complications of cancer linked to the time he spent with other first responders in the rubble at ground zero was announced in a Facebook statement from his family.
"We told him at the end that he had won this battle by the many lives he had touched by sharing his three year battle," the statement said.
"He was at peace with that, surrounded by family. Thank you for giving us this time we have had with him, it was a blessing."

Alvarez entered end-of-life hospice care last week.
Alvarez vowed to fight for benefits until the end
On June 11, a frail Alvarez made his way to Washington with other first responders to testify in a House Judiciary subcommittee hearing for an extension of the fund for police officers, firefighters and other emergency workers who became ill after laboring at the site of the 2001 World Trade Center terrorist attacks. He received a standing ovation that day.

"I'm now in hospice, because (there) is nothing else the doctors can do to fight the cancer," Alvarez wrote in a Facebook post the following week. "Still here, still breathing, Still fighting."
His strength — physical, mental & emotional — led us all, & we vow to #NeverForget him or his legacy — which was, simply, to have others do what's right."

Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea said of Alvarez: "He exemplified the NYPD motto, "Fidelis Ad Mortem" or "Faithful Unto Death." Detective Lou Alvarez has lost his battle with 9/11-related cancer. An inspiration, a warrior, a friend—we will carry his sword."

House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, said via Twitter, "Det. Alvarez lost his fight against cancer, but his fight for 9/11 responders and survivors continues. He dedicated his life to protecting others and advocating on behalf of those ailing after the attacks. It is time for Congress to honor his sacrifice."
John Feal, a 9/11 first responder and advocate, said that on Tuesday he gave Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell Alvarez's badge as a symbol of the importance of the victim compensation fund.

"That was Luis' intention," Feal told CNN this week. "Luis wanted Mitch McConnell to have his badge. And let me tell you something, for a New York City police officer to give up his badge, that's like somebody donating an organ, and Luis wanted the Senate majority leader to understand the importance of this and to be reminded that people are sick and dying."

Feal told reporters the Senate majority leader committed to holding a vote to extend the fund after sitting down with him and other 9/11 first responders on Capitol Hill.
'I did not want to be anywhere else but ground zero'
Alvarez wrote last week that the decline in his health had nothing to do with the trip to Washington. But organizers said the trip is a struggle for ailing first responders like the former detective.
Some lawmakers on the panel did not show up for the hearing this month, leading to a fiery speech from comedian and fund proponent Jon Stewart."As I sit here today, I can't help but think what an incredible metaphor this room is for the entire process that getting health care and benefits for 9/11 first responders has come to," Stewart said.

Alvarez, speaking slowly, told lawmakers in the room that he planned to get his 69th round of chemotherapy the next day.
"You made me come down here the day before my 69th round of chemo, and I'm going to make sure that you never forget to take care of the 9/11 responders," he said.
Alvarez said the police officers, fire fighters, paramedics and others at ground zero were doing what they do every day -- helping others.

"We were there together with one mission, and we left after completing that mission," he said. "I have been to many places in this world and done many things, but I can tell you that I did not want to be anywhere else but ground zero when I was there."
He added, "Now that the 9/11 illnesses have taken many of us, we are all worried about our children and spouses and our families if we are not here."
Last week, Alvarez posted on Facebook that a nurse noticed he was disoriented when he went for chemo treatment. Tests then revealed that his liver had completely shut down because of his tumors, he said.

"So now I'm resting and I'm at peace. I will continue to fight until the Good Lord decides it's time," he wrote. "I will try to do a few more interviews to keep a light on our fight for the VCF benefits we all justly deserve. Please take care of yourselves and each other."
Alvarez was born in Havana, Cuba in October 1965. He was married to Alaine Parker Alvarez, and has three sons. He graduated in 1983 from Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School in Queens, New York. He later studied at the City University of New York.

He was appointed to the NYPD in 1990 and retired as a detective in October 2010.
Alvarez is also survived by his parents, Aida and Felipe; his sister, Aida Lugo; and his brothers, Philip and Fernando.


Cardi B 'Okurrr' Trademark Refused by Government Officials
Cardi B will not be able to exclusively cash in on her well known catchphrase after officials shut down the hip-hop star and claimed her phrase isn't all that special.
According to documents obtained by The Blast, Cardi was refused a trademark registration after filing to lock down her phrase, "Okurrr."

U.S. Patent and Trademark officials explained that Cardi's slogan falls under the category of "widely-used commonplace expressions," and did not fit the bill to deserve a trademark.

They also noted that Okurrr, "is a slogan or term that does not function as a trademark or service mark to indicate the source of applicant’s goods and/or services," and that it does not distinguish itself from other similar marks.
USPTO officials combed through the internet and found tons of different times Okurrr has been used ... but unfortunately most of the examples are just fans ripping off the "Money" star.

There were also some examples of the Kardashians being associated with the phrase over the years, which officials felt justified their decision to deem it a common expression.
Furthermore, it seems a few of Cardi's fans already beat the star to the punch and filed similar trademark applications before she filed her own application back in March.
The Blast first broke the story, the "Bodak Yellow" rapper filed to trademark, "Okurrr" for merchandising purposes.
Some of the swag she wanted to put the catchphrase on included paper goods, like cups and posters, as well as a clothing line featuring pants, shirts, and hoodies.
After originally filing the paperwork, Cardi defended her actions to "secure the bag" and let fans know that she's building an empire and not shy about getting her money.
The refusal by officials hasn't completely closed the door for Cardi, because she still has a chance to make changes and argue her case before the trademark is completely abandoned.

Okurrr!


'Strangers Things' Cast Turns Movie Premiere Upside Down!
The "Stranger Things" cast flipped their movie premiere upside down for Season Three by taking over a local high school!
Hawkin's original five -- Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Finn Wolfhard and Noah Schnapp -- invaded the red carpet at Santa Monica High on Friday night showing how much they've grown since the beginning of their Netflix series!

Last season's newcomer Sadie Sink proved she's part of the pack as she claimed her space next to the cast, whose careers were launched into super star status almost immediately after Season One dropped on the streaming giant.
The parents who hold their tiny tribe down -- Winona Ryder and David Harbour -- showed their friendship goes deep off the screen too. Embracing each other tightly ahead of the premiere, they looked more like a family then co-stars.

Winona kept it classic in a black dress, while Chief Hopper stripped out of his police officer garb and into a plaid suit.
The kids' older siblings were there too! Natalia Dyer walked the carpet in a multicolored sequined gown. Keeping the focus on the dress, she avoided flashy accessorizes and opted for her hair down.
Joe Kerry showed off his unique style with a half tan/ half black suit jacket, metallic pants and colorful printed shirt underneath. Charlie Heaton proved he's keeping up with Kerry's fashion sense, putting a hip twist to a traditional black and white suit.

But the belle of the ball was the show's star, Millie Bobby Brown.
Walking the carpet in a pink, ballerina-like gown, Eleven kept her hair slick back and showed plenty of leg. With extra material that streamed behind the 15-year-old fashionista, she showed her style has evolved with her age and career.

Season Three hits Netflix on July 4th.


BET Strikes Back at Nicki Minaj
This week Nicki Minaj trolled BET implying the 2019 BET Awards suffered their lowest ratings ever because of their mistreatment of her [click here if you missed that].

Not so fast...While Nicki was busy gloating over unconfirmed reports that only 2 million viewers tuned in , BET claims nearly 12 million viewers watched across 8 networks making it the #1 cable awards show for the 5th consecutive year. 
BLOOP!


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
‘IN & OUT’
Time is money and this boss lady is wheeling circles around you fools.


EGGPLANT NATION: Meet Manny Bear
Meet Manny! So you know what to do to see more. Just GO HERE TO SEE THE PICS and remember they’re NSFW!

DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN NOR ALTER any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.

You’re Welcome!


HAVE A GREAT WEEK AHEAD ALL!
EFREM

6/27/19

The Daily Buzz For June 28 ☕📰☕


Trevor Noah for the Hollywood Reporter!
Trevor Noah takes a call on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter‘s comedy issue, available now.
Here’s what the 35-year-old The Daily Show host had to share with the mag:

On what he told producers when negotiating to take the Daily Show gig: “I won’t lie — when I watch the show, I don’t understand most of what’s going on. It’s very highbrow, and I don’t think there are enough international stories. So if you brought me on, the risk you’re taking is I’m going to talk about international stories and I’m not going to try to make the show smarter than it is.”

On the old tweets that landed him in hot water: “In many ways, social media and comedy are time stamps of who we were…and if you’re not disgusted by what you did when you look back five, 10 years ago, then I’d argue you haven’t grown. But we live in a society where people are more concerned with the platitudes of apologies than they are with the actual change in human beings. I just don’t think it’s healthy for us to berate and destroy people for who they were versus who they are because ‘are’ is more important. And that’s the problem I have with the ‘cancel culture’ a lot of the time — you condemn people to only being that forever. What’s the value of atoning if it doesn’t mean you’re welcomed back into society?”
On the misconception that The Daily Show made him famous: “People don’t understand that I came to America from a country where I was really successful. And I’m proud of South Africa because that’s where I made my fortune. I had my homes and my cars and my nice things, and my country gave that to me. So I wasn’t escaping anything. I’m here because I want to be here.”

For more from Trevor, visit THR.com.



#DebateNight Pt#2: Joe Biden and Kamala Harris square off as Democratic rivals go on the attack on the debate stage
Former Vice President Joe Biden faced stinging criticism in Thursday's Democratic presidential debate as fellow White House hopefuls criticized him in sharp terms about his history on issues of race and questioned the wisdom of turning to a leader of a past generation to take on President Donald Trump.
In the two months since announcing his candidacy, Biden has tried — and mostly succeeded — in staying above the fray in the crowded field of two dozen Democrats vying for the nomination.

That changed Thursday. Sen. Kamala Harris of California spoke with emotion as she described her anguish with controversial comments Biden made at a fundraiser earlier this month in which he touted finding common political ground with two late segregationist senators.
Biden, who has spent more than four decades in federal public service, said he spoke of James O. Eastland and Herman Talmadge to lament dying civility in Washington and make the case he had the ability to work with people he had strong disagreement with.

"It was hurtful to hear you talk about the reputations of two United States senators who built their reputations and careers on segregation of race in this country," said Harris, who is one two African-Americans in the race. 

She also took aim at Biden for working with the senators on his fight against school busing in the 1970s. Harris told the story of a young California girl who was part of the second class to integrate her school.
“That little girl is me,” she said.  Biden snapped back that Harris' was offering a "mischaracterization of his position across the board." He added that he didn't oppose busing to alleviate integrate schools, but was against the Department of Education ordering busing against local wishes.

"I don't praise racists, that is not true," Biden said, making a subtle dig at Harris' career as a prosecutor. "If you want to have this campaign on who supported civil rights and whether I did or not, I am happy to do that. I left a good law firm to become a public defender when in fact my city was in flames because of the assassination of Dr. King. Number 2, as vice president of the United States I worked with a man, we worked very hard to see to it that we dealt with these (issues) in a major, major way."

'Pass the torch'
Another rival, Rep. Eric Swalwell of California, pointedly told Biden that it was time to move on from political life.

“I was six years old when a presidential candidate came to the California Democratic Convention and said 'it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation of Americans.’ That candidate was then senator Joe Biden," Swalwell said in the first direct shot at the former vice president. "Joe Biden was right when he said when it was time to pass the torch to a new generation of Americans 32 years ago. He’s still right today”
Biden pushed back, saying he still has ideas to move the country forward.

"I'm still holding on to that torch," Biden responded before pivoting. "I want to make clear that everyone is prepared better to go on to an education. The fact is that's why I propose us focusing on schools that are in distress. That's why I think we should triple the amount of money we spend on Title I schools. That's why I think we should have universal pre-K."

Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who has picked on Biden for his ties to financial services community, also took a thinly-veiled shot a Biden.

"The issue is not generational," Sanders shouted over cross-talk from the moderators and other candidates. "The issue is who got the guts to take on Wall Street, who has the guts to take on the fossil fuel industry, to take on the big money interest who have unbelievable influence on the economic and political life of this country."

As the candidates shouted over each other,  Harris piped in.

“America does not want to witness a food fight,” Harris interrupted, quieting the stage during one tense moment. “They want to know how we’re going to put food on the table.”

Swalwell, 38, a long shot candidate who was born about eight years after Biden was elected to the Senate in 1972, went after Biden before even taking the stage.
"We can't have a candidate who has ideas that are staler than Donald Trump's," Swalwell told CNN in an interview just before the start of the debate. I don't think we can nominate a candidate who has been in government for longer than 20 years. I don't think that's going to work.

"I think we need someone who's going to offer a vision for the future, who lives and gets these issues on student debt, gun violence, health care cures, climate chaos."

Turning it to Trump
Biden remained steadfast that he is the most prepared among those in the crowded field to take on Trump, rebuild the middle class and unite a nation that’s increasingly divided by corrosive politics.

He repeatedly tried to put the focus back on Trump and focus on his plans to undo the harm he says the president  has done to the country.
"Donald Trump has put us into a horrible situation," Biden said
With Biden holding a double-digit lead in several national polls, it was widely expected that rivals would focus on him as they try to persuade voters to look beyond the most well-known Democrat running.

Biden, who served two terms as President Obama’s vice president and 36 years as a U.S. senator, has approached the nomination with a measure of certitude.
At the outset of his campaign, he vowed not to criticize fellow Democrats — and has stuck to the promise with few exceptions—while pounding on Trump’s policies and leadership style as an anathema to American norms.

But over the last few weeks, the rest of the field has become more aggressive in their engagement with Biden as most struggle make headway in race that polls show has remained largely stagnant since Biden’s entrance in late April.
Si lo hicimos! Beto O'Rourke, Cory Booker weren't the first to drop Spanish in a debate. And they likely won't be the last
In addition to his comments about the segregationist senators, Biden was dinged as out of step on women’s reproductive rights when his campaign reasserted that he supported the Hyde Amendment, law that prohibits the use of federal money on abortion. After facing an avalanche of criticism, Biden said he had changed his mind and would no longer support the law.

Bernie Sanders makes a stand
Sanders, who is making his second run for the White House, has slipped in the polls since Biden's entry, and looked to regain some of his footing on Thursday.

He pushed on his populist message and tried to amplify campaign agenda that includes calls for vastly expanding government-run health care and free college tuition. Sanders also acknowledge his plans would require tax hikes some middle-class Americans.
"We have a new vision for America,” Sanders said. “We think it is time for real change.”

South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg turned a question about immigration policy to rebuke the morality of the Trump administration.

"The Republican Party likes to cloak itself in the language of religion," Buttigieg said. "Our party doesn't talk about that as much, largely for very good reasons, we are committed to the separation of church and state ... But we should call out hypocrisy when we see it. And for a party that associates itself with Christianity, to say that it's OK that God would smile at the division of families at the hands of federal agents? That God would condone putting children in cages? (It) has lost all claim to ever use religious language again."

Biden used the moment to make the case for voters to hire someone with his breadth of experience. He argued that he's the only one in the crowd of candidates with experience to broker a bipartisan compromise on immigration reform and end the crisis.
“We all talk about these things,” Biden said of negotiating a bipartisan agreement to address the root causes of why migrants are seeking asylum in the United States. “I did it. I did it.”

Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, author Marianne Williamson, and entrepreneur Andrew Yang also took part in Thursday's debate.

Night 1 of the debates
Ten other candidates debated Wednesday night. Four candidates -- including one who just announced his candidacy last week -- were left off the stage by the Democratic National Committee because they failed to meet eligibility requirements of either receiving contributions from at least 65,000 donors or garnering at least 1% of the vote in three-party sanctioned polls.

Candidates who appeared on the first of the two-night debates in Miami didn’t directly engage Biden, but the dialogue on both nights similarly hit on the same larger theme: How far should Democrats veer to the left?
Sanders is leading the push for a single-payer, government-run health-care system that’s been dubbed as "Medicare for All," which would greatly expand on the current government-run program for the elderly.

Other 2020 Democratic presidential candidates — including Senators Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, Cory Booker of New Jersey, Harris and Gillibrand — have signed on as co-sponsors of legislation proposed by Sanders earlier this year.
The proposal has detractors among some centrist Democrats, who say that Medicare for All would blow up the private health insurance industry to the detriment of millions of Americans who are happy with their current plans.

Biden, Buttigieg, former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper and other contenders have pushed for a more modest overhaul known as the public option, which would expand American’s access to a government-run insurance plan but preserve the choice of private insurance.
Democrats previously toyed with the idea of pushing for a public option as President Obama and Democratic lawmakers early in the last president’s first term built the Affordable Care Act, which created health care exchanges where millions of middle and lower income Americans could get subsidies to purchase private insurance and expanded access to Medicaid.

South Bend fallout for Mayor Pete: 'He should be here': As South Bend grieves, Buttigieg criticized for leaving for the campaign trail

Logan shooting: A fatal police shooting has upended Mayor Pete Buttigieg's campaign. 

Buttigieg debates amidst police shooting controversy
The debate came at a difficult moment for Buttigieg, who left the campaign trail for several days last week to deal with the fallout in his hometown of South Bend over the police shooting of a Eric Logan, a 54-year-old black resident of the Indiana city. Logan was fatally wounded by white South Bend Police Sgt. Ryan O'Neill in the early hours of June 16 as the officer investigated a series of vehicle thefts.  

Police say O'Neill found Logan rooting through a car after 3 a.m. in an apartment complex after hearing reports of someone vandalizing vehicles in the area. O'Neill says he shot Logan because he was wielding a knife, advancing toward the officer and refusing orders to drop the weapon, authorities said.

Logan later died at an area hospital after being transported in a squad car instead of an ambulance, a decision repeatedly questioned by Logan's family and others. They wonder whether that contributed to his death. The officer was equipped a body camera but did not switch it on.

Moderator Rachel Maddow asked Buttigieg why his city's police force is only 6% African-American.
“Because I couldn’t get it done,” Buttigieg acknowledged. “My community is in anguish right now.”
Williamson and Yang get introduced to national audience
The debate also marked the first big moment on the national stage for two lesser known candidates, former tech executive Andrew Yang and activist and author Marianne Williamson.
Both have hovered in low single digits in most polls, but have managed to gather a measure of support on the trail with their outside-the-box messages.

Yang has made the idea of the federal government distributing a universal basic income of $1,000 per month to all Americans over the age of 18, a focal point of his campaign platform. He says universal income would play a key role in restructuring the modern economy to make it more equitable.
Williamson, who writes on spirituality and has been an adviser to Oprah Winfrey, in making the case for candidacy said that the country is at a moment when it needs "a political visionary more than we need a political mechanic." 

The author on stage: Marianne Williamson scolds rivals on debate stage

In her closing remarks, Marianne Williamson said Donald Trump has gotten into the American psyche by harnessing fear for political purposes. She said she would overcome that fear and beat Trump by embracing love.


#RHOA: Oh? Nene Leakes Shades her ‘RHOA’ Co Stars with a shady instagram post!
“The Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Nene Leakes has resumed posting her famous pink flyers, and her newest message appears to take aim at her co-stars.
Leakes shared the flyer on June 25 that read, “We must learn who is gold and who is simply gold plated.”

The message had “gold” and “gold plated” in a gold hue against the pink backdrop.
Several followers hated on Leakes’ message and blamed her for the distance between herself and the co-stars she famously unfollowed on Instagram. Leakes made the move back in March and claimed cast mates Cynthia Bailey, Porsha Williams, Kandi Burruss, Eva Marcille, and Tanya Sam did not support her as she dealt with her husband Gregg Leakes‘ cancer battle.

“They kicking it without you 1 monkey don’t stop no money or friends it not all abt you NeNe.”

“When your miserable in your marriage, you become a monster, it’s not the other ladies fault that your unhappy, it’s only when things go well for you that your ok, learn to be happy for others , even when your not💁🏾‍♀️”
“Nene grow up damn!!!!!!”

However, not everyone took it as a chance to bash Nene.

The post even struck a nerve with “Married to Medicine” star Mariah Huq.

“You better speak on it..chilllleee (siggghhhhsss) smh if only we could learn to stick together like most other cultures.iron sharpens iron,” commented Huq.

She has had issues on her own Bravo series with co-star and friend-turned-foe Quad Webb-Lunceford. During the drama-filled reunion in January, Huq took major issue with the “Sister Circle” host when Miss Quad alleged she caught Huq snorting cocaine.
“I do not, nor have I ever used illicit recreational drugs of any kind,”Huq said in an Instagram statement where she described Webb-Lunceford’s claims as “malicious and deceitful attacks to my personal character and integrity.”

Others felt the “RHOA” star’s message resonated with them, too.
“Louder for the folks in the back!”
“👏👏👏👏👏 YASSSS and it is just sad☹”

“Amen😇👍🏽💕🙏🏽. Thank God I am Gold. So are you my Queen.❤️”


#Empire: Here are Five Fast Facts About Jamal Lyon On Empire
Jamal Lyon is one of Cookie and Lucious’s three children on Empire. In fact, he is the middle Lyon son, but he often times feels like the black sheep of the family. Though he wants to pursue music, Jamal is forced to overcome the hate he receives for being a black gay man in the industry.
From his relationship past to his time in rehab, here are five fast facts you need to know about Empire’s Jamal (Jussie Smollett).

Bullied For His Sexuality
Jamal began dressing in women’s clothing at a very young age, which needless to say his father was not a fan of. Not only did his family seemingly disapprove of his sexuality, but Jamal was also bullied in school for being gay.

Once Married To A Woman
Lucious (Terrence Howard) forced Jamal to marry Olivia, a hairstylist, back when he was just 18. Olivia and Jamal split shortly after getting married, but she returned with a little girl she claimed was Jamal’s daughter. It ended up not being Jamal’s daughter, but he does his best to take care of her when he thinks she is.

Go To Rehab
After a long history of abusing pain medication, Jamal got taken to rehab. His family staged an intervention, but it was Cookie (Taraji P. Henson) who ultimately decided he needed to go in order to get help.

Happily Ever After
After a series of bad relationships, Jamal finally decided to settle down and got married to Kai Givens in a beautiful ceremony attended by his family. The pair got married near the end of Season 5 and left on an extended honeymoon.

No Longer On The Show
Unfortunately for fans of Jamal, it looks like he won’t be returning to Empire for the sixth and final season, which is set to air this fall. It’ll be interesting to see how the show handles his departure or if the honeymoon will simply be neverending.


#NewMusicVideo from Eric Roberson ‘Leave It In’
Veteran soul crooner Eric Roberson returns with the release of his new video for current single “Leave It In”.

WATCH HERE

The video was directed by Chris + Blaq from Impakt Studios in Chicago, and filmed at City Winery Chicago. The duo had previously directed Roberson’s videos for “Dealing” and “Still.” The leading lady for the video is none other than vocalist Laurin Talese.

The song is lifted from the singer’s current album “LNS”. If you haven’t heard about the album yet, that’s because it has been released exclusively to his biggest supporters via his patreon site. They also got a first look at the video in advance.


#NewHipHop from Fat Joe, Dre, & Lil Wayne – ‘Pullin’
Thirteen years since “Make It Rain,” Fat Joe and Lil Wayne reunite on their latest collaboration “Pullin” featuring Dre.

LISTEN HERE

Over a sample of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On,” Joey Crack cooks up a fiery verse, while Dre borrows Wayne’s classic “Phone Home” line: “We are not the same / I am a martian.” Weezy comes through with some rapid-fire rhymes to finish it off (“I’m from the jungle, not the petting zoo / And you look edible”).

“Pullin” follows Fat Joe and Wayne’s past collaborations including 2006’s “Make It Rain” and 2012’s “Yellow Tape.” Joe is now working on Family Ties, his first album since 2017’s Plata O Plomo with Remy Ma. “Finally the wait is OVER we will begin Operation Paralyze The SUMMER,” he said.


Nicki Minaj READS ‘Spiteful’ BET Awards Over 2019 Ratings
Earlier this year, Nicki Minaj got herself into something of a beef with BET. The official BET website posted an article in February about Cardi B, who became the first female rapper to win Best Rap Album at the Grammys, but it also included a sly dig at Nicki. "Meanwhile, Nicki Minaj is being dragged by her lacefront," the post read after detailing Cardi's achievement.

In response, both Minaj and Lil Wayne pulled out of the BET Experience concert in the lead-up to the 2019 BET Awards. The ceremony just aired over the weekend (June 23), reportedly garnering the lowest ratings in BET's history, and Nicki made sure she had something to say about it.

Nicki took a shot at BET when she saw the numbers—which at this point could definitely be inaccurate—retweeting an image showing the decline in viewers over the years. "When u go out of ur way to b spiteful & hurt artists who have always supported ur show," she tweeted. "When you fire great ppl who have put their heart & soul into the show... when you’d rather be a messy reality show than a prestigious award show... when ur still being dragged by that lace."
Nicki was nominated for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, but she didn't turn up to the ceremony due to the article posted earlier this year. BET posted an apology to the rapper following the post, which they also deleted from their site. She attended the 2018 show and performed her songs "Chun-Li" and "Rich Sex." She has a total of 11 BET Awards to her name.


Lala Anthony Responds To Carmelo Anthony Cheating Rumors
Lala Anthony is hurting. The speculation surrounding Carmelo Anthony‘s yacht shenanigans, the cheating rumors and the two cents from his ex-mistress is weighing heavily on the actress.
She took to social media and posted a photo of a heart with a dagger in it – then she deleted it shortly thereafter.
This is extremely sad and a clear indication that she isn’t buying Melo’s version of what went down on the yacht. Your thoughts?


Mariah Carey Spotted In The Studio With Usher
All smiles in the stu!! On Wednesday (June 26), pop diva Mariah Carey shared to her 8.1 million Instagram followers a gorgeous flick of her and R&B sex symbol Usher in the studio.
In the photo, the 50-year-old artist is wearing a black leather jacket with an all-black shirt and pants with her signature curls while the ‘You Make Me Wanna’ singer is rocking mini dreads with a graphic tee partially covered by a plaid button shirt.
Carey captioned the photo with the lyrics to her 1999 song, “How Much” with whom Usher was featured on.

“Have you ever felt so enamored baby (that’s how much I love you)” ? If you don’t know it, listen to Rainbow! @usher
After posting the photo, Mariah’s DJ and close friend DJ Suss One commented
“??????????” while Def Jam signee Bibi Bourelly left a heart emoji. Nigerian-British pop singer MNEK also left a comment saying [How Much] is “one of my fav songs!!! ?
Rainbow was Mariah’s seventh studio album which will be reaching its 20th anniversary later on this year.
Although the Jermaine Dupri-produced/Tupac-sampled track was never released as a single, the album went platinum three times over and sold 8 million copies worldwide.

Mariah, who finished most of the dates her world tour in support of her ‘Caution’ album,


WorldPride kicks off with opening ceremony at the Barclays Center
The ceremony, which was also a benefit concert, ran from 7 p.m to 10 p.m and was hosted by actor, comedian, author and “The View” host, Whoopi Goldberg.
The event had performances by stars such as Cyndi Lauper, Billy Porter, former “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestants and more.
The proceeds from ticket sales went to the Ali Forney Center, Immigration Equality and SAGE which are all leading LGBTQ+ organizations based in New York City.
This year’s WorldPride has been held in conjunction with the celebration of 50 years since the Stonewall raids and marks the first time that it has been hosted in the United States. 

Watch POSE Star Billy Porter sings 'Home' at the closing of the ceremony

WorldPride has been promoting LGBTQ+ issues internationally through festivals, parades and more since 2000. Events have previously been held in host cities such as Toronto, Madrid and London.
WorldPride 2021 will be hosted in Copenhagen. Zimbio has ore pics HERE


LeBron James giving Anthony Davis the No. 23 with Lakers
LOS ANGELES — Lakers superstar LeBron James is gifting Anthony Davis his No. 23, league sources says. The league has been notified of the pending jersey change, sources said.

Davis, 26, has worn No. 23 throughout his entire seven-year NBA career as a member of the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Lakers agreed to acquire Davis on June 15 in a blockbuster deal that sent a number of assets to New Orleans.
James is laying the groundwork to make his soon-to-be new teammate as comfortable as possible, and the six-time All-Star was extremely grateful for the gesture, sources said.
James has worn No. 6 with the Miami Heat and No. 23 with the Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers.

It is unclear what number James will select for the 2019-20 season, sources said. The Nos. 8, 13, 22, 24, 25, 32, 33, 34, 42, 44 and 52 are retired by the Lakers.

The trade that sent Davis to the Lakers isn’t expected to be finalized until July 6.


Illinois Becomes The 11th State to Legalize Marijuana!
Now 770,000 Cases are Eligible For Expungement Illinois just became the 11th state in the U.S. to legalize recreational marijuana after Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the regulatory bill legislators passed in May. 

Legal recreational marijuana sales will begin in Illinois on January 1, 2020, for residents 21 and over. 
According to the Chicago Sun-Times,  the governor and the bill’s sponsors are explicitly emphasizing the social equity components of the comprehensive measure, which will automatically expunge the records of those with arrests for possessions of 30 grams of marijuana and will also help minority communities become involved in the business.

According to the Marijuana Policy Project, around 770,000 cannabis-related cases will become eligible for expungement. 
The new measure will also establish a grant program called “The Restore, Reinvest and Renew Program” to help communities affected by the War on Drugs, in addition to a $30 million low-interest loan program for qualified applicants who wish to start a licensed cannabis business.  

Pritzker, who aggressively campaigned for legalizing marijuana, said the legislation brings an “overdue change to our state.”
“Signing this bill into law won’t undo the injustices of the past or make whole the lives that were interrupted. We can’t turn the clock back — but we can turn the page,” Pritzker said.


Miley Cyrus, Ariana Grande, Lana Del Rey Team Up For New ‘Charlie’s Angels’ Theme Song
Pop stars Miley Cyrus, Ariana Grande, Lana Del Rey, have teamed up for the new theme song for Elizabeth Banks‘ ‘Charlie’s Angels’ remake. A clip of the upbeat, empowering song is featured in the new trailer for the film, released Thursday.

“We were inspired by ‘Independent Women’ and Destiny’s Child with the last set of movies,” Banks told PEOPLE about the new theme song for the movie. “I feel really grateful that this incredible group of artists took inspiration from these films as well and felt like working together as women, and [it] thematically matched up with the exact movie that we were making.”
Although Banks, who co-wrote, directed and costars in the new film along with Kristen Stewart, Ella Balinska and Naomi Scott, couldn’t reveal the name of the song, she did share her excitement of having her favs performing the theme for her movie. “I’m thrilled that three of my favorite artists ended up doing a song for the film,” she said. “It’s really exciting. I can’t wait for people to see it, actually in full, in the film and to hear it when the single drops.”

The new ‘Charlie’s Angels’ movie is a continuation of the original story, first introduced in the ’70s TV series, the 2000 movie, and the 2003 sequel. Banks’ version connects all the past flicks for the first time, so it was only fitting that the theme song line-up included some of the world’s biggest pop stars.

‘Charlie’s Angels’ hits theaters November 15th and stars Sir Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Tucker, Noah Centineo, Sam Claflin, and Djimon Hounsou.


Mary J. Blige Signs First-Look TV Deal With Lionsgate
Singer-actress Mary J. Blige has signed a first-look television deal with Lionsgate.
As a part of Blige’s new deal, her production company, Blue Butterfly, will develop and produce TV series for the studio, Variety reports. In addition, the 48-year-old will also be able to create content across Lionsgate platforms.

“Mary is a very talented artist, fearless visionary, and an incredible human being. We’re delighted to be working with someone with such a powerful and impactful creative voice,” said Lionsgate TV Group chairman Kevin Beggs. “Every art she touches blossoms, and we’re humbled she’s chosen us as her home. We look forward to all the exciting new content, Mary, and her Blue Butterfly banner will bring to our television slate and Lionsgate 360 orbit.”

Blige was recently nominated for an Oscar for her role and music in “Mudbound.”She also worked on Netflix’s “The Umbrella Academy.” “I couldn’t be more excited to be working with Lionsgate. They are incredible collaborators and have been natural partners from when we first started talking. I can’t wait to bring all of our projects to life,” said Blige in a statement.

Blige is the most recent name to be added to Lionsgate’s production and development roster. She now joins Courtney Kemp, Jonathan Levine, Matt Kunitz, Mona-Scott Young, Cassian Elwes, the Erwin Brothers, Eugenio Derbez, and Yvette Lee Bowser, among others.


Happy Birthday Khloé Kardashian she gets a Judith Leiber bag from Sister Kim as a Birthday Gift!
The KKW Beauty founder showed off a Judith Leiber crystal eggplant purse to her followers on Thursday, saying this bundle of fun was going directly to the birthday girl because "she loves it."
Displaying the 7 inch eggplant silhouette, Kim goes even further, poking fun at her little sister's passion for the ahem ... fruit.
"For Khloe's birthday I got her this Judith Leiber bag of an eggplant and I just thought it was really fitting for her and she loves it guys," Kim says. "So, she's definitely getting some eggplant for her birthday."

Awkwardly enough, you can hear kids in the background, as well as Scott Disick who screams "she really needs some eggplant!"
Kim's gift is a pricey one, sitting at a little under $5,000, and is in high demand (go figure).
The purple and green Judith Leiber Crystal Eggplant Minaudiere is only 2.2" deep, but it is definitely a showstopper.

With gold hardware and leather lining, Khloé's eggplant purse will be sure to compliment any outfit and can easily get passed around between the sisters.
Khloé has had quite the day so far, with her ex-boyfriend and baby daddy, Tristan Thompson, coming out of the blue with a sentimental birthday post to the star.
"You are the most beautiful human I have ever met inside and out," he stated, while sharing an adorable pic of Khloé and True. "Thank you for being an amazing mommy to our princess True. She is blessed to have someone like you to look up to."

He even added some well wishes for his ex and signed off with her nickname.
"I wish you nothing but more success and sending you positive blessing your way. Enjoy your day Koko," he wrote.

Like everyone, we were excited to read the responses anticipating fans to attack, but as we reported, he limited his comments -- only allowing people he follows to comment on the message.


Tamar Braxton’s Estranged Husband Vince Herbert Accused of Refusing to Pay $380,000 Debt 
Tamar Braxton’s estranged husband Vince Herbert allegedly refuses to show up to court or pay a $380,000 debt, and is close to being found in contempt of court.
According to court documents, LDNX Records is demanding a judge find Herbert in contempt for failing to turn over financial information, despite being served with a subpoena.
The record company is owed $380,000 from Vince Herbert stemming from a previous lawsuit. They have been trying to collect on the money for over a year. They have gotten creative and attempted to get records to see if Herbert was owed money from famous artists he worked with including Lady Gaga and Remy Ma.

The company wants Herbert to be ordered to answer questions about his income and assets. They also want to seize money from his Wells Fargo bank account.
In the docs, the company points out Herbert also owes Sony Music over $3.7 million stemming from a separate lawsuit. They fear Herbert is using his label Streamline Records to hide money from them and his creditors.

The company is asking the court for a restraining order prohibiting Streamline from transferring any assets.
A judge will have to decide if Herbert will be held in contempt.
Last year, the company filed court docs explaining they have been trying to collect on $380k owed to them by Vince Herbert and demanded the music exec be found in contempt of court, along with Lady Gaga, Remy Ma, and Interscope Records.

The music company won a judgment against Vince in 2017 after suing him over a business deal gone south. They claim to have not been paid a dime from Vince and are trying to figure out the sources of his income, so they can seize the money until the $380k is satisfied.

LDNX accused Gaga, Remy and the record label of failing to provide complete and accurate answers to the information they demanded from the subpoena. LDNX demanded sanctions against Gaga and Vince, along with Remy.
Gaga eventually turned over the requested information and they are no longer seeking sanctions or contempt against her. Remy was found in contempt of court at one point for failing to hand over the documents and was ordered to immediately hand them over or face more consequences.

The rapper recently finally answered the subpoena and provided information about Herbert’s finances and money paid to him. The information then helped LDNX locate a Wells Fargo bank account that Herbert had they weren’t aware of previously.


Nancy Pelosi Gives In To Mitch McConnell As House Passes Senate Version Of Border Aid Bill
WASHINGTON — In the end, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had to cave.
Faced with a rebellion from moderates in her own party — as well as Republicans in both chambers who wouldn’t give in to a single provision — Pelosi pulled a border aid bill on Thursday that many House Democrats preferred and passed the Senate version of the legislation 305-102, with 95 Democrats and seven Republicans voting no.

Help us tell more of the stories that matter from voices that too often remain unheard.
Become a founding member
On Tuesday, the House passed a bill aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis involving undocumented immigrants detained at the border. The vote was mostly along party lines, 234-195. The next day, the Senate passed its own bipartisan version of the bill, drafted by Sens. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), in an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote, 84-8.
In retrospect, that was the moment when Pelosi lost. The California Democrat said there was no chance the House would simply pass the Senate bill. Instead, she said Democrats would pass a new bill with only a few changes to the Senate legislation. Those changes would have put additional restrictions on how the administration could spend the about $4.5 billion in the bill and would mandate basic conditions for border detention facilities ― provisions that progressives fought earlier this week to make sure were in the House legislation.

But about a dozen and a half moderates in the so-called Problem Solvers Caucus said they would vote no on the new Democratic bill. Republicans in the House had also shown a resolve to not go along with anything but the Senate bill, which President Donald Trump said was the only border aid measure he would sign.

That left Pelosi without the votes to pass even her compromise legislation, and she was forced to pull the bill from floor consideration. From there, the only thing the speaker could do — if she wanted to pass a border bill before the July Fourth recess — was put the Senate bill up for a vote.
 “We will not engage in the same disrespectful behavior that the Senate did in ignoring our priorities,” Pelosi wrote in a letter to House Democrats on Thursday. “In order to get resources to the children fastest, we will reluctantly pass the Senate bill.”
“The children come first,” Pelosi added. “At the end of the day, we have to make sure that the resources needed to protect the children are available.”
Democrats were adamant that the children should come first, but not everyone was in agreement that Democrats should give in to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) and other Republicans.

Progressive Caucus Co-Chairman Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) asked in a tweet Thursday when the Problem Solvers Caucus had become “the Child Abuse Caucus.” “Wouldn’t they want to at least fight against contractors who run deplorable facilities? Kids are the only ones who could lose today,” Pocan said.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) also criticized the decision to pass the Senate bill, tweeting that “under no circumstances” should the House vote on the Senate bill without negotiations. “Hell no,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “That’s an abdication of power we should refuse to accept. They will keep hurting kids if we do.”
But Pelosi’s decision to pass the Senate bill was an acknowledgment that no amount of time was going to make McConnell give in. The Senate majority leader was adamant that Republicans would not negotiate.
“We did not, in the end, continue to play political games over this,” McConnell said. “They did. And it’s their problem to solve.”
He noted that Pelosi had spent time on Thursday talking to Vice President Mike Pence about ensuring that at least some of the Democratic requests could be handled administratively. It’s unclear whether Pelosi received any assurances in that regard, but the guardrails to stop the administration from transferring funds to other border purposes or to establish standards for treating children detained at the border aren’t in the Senate bill.


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
‘UP YOU GO’
I’d like to see that dude free solo climb this hard-to-navigate crack in the mountain. UP YOU GO


#EGGPLANT NATION Meet Sean WOOF!! 
Meet Sean! Well to see more you can GO HERE TO SEE THE PICS!  And remember they’re NSWF!

DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.

ENJOY!


HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!
EFREM