7/30/23

The Daily Buzz For July 31 ☕📰☕

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#MAGFAB: Luz Pavon Covers Vogue Mexico August 2023 photographed by Jean-Baptiste Mondino
The fiery and prominent Mexican model Luz Pavón covers the August 2023 issue of Vogue Mexico [IG]and Latin America, styled by Patti Wilson in Courreges on the cover.
With a silhouette focus on ‘Minimalismo’, Wilson chooses fierce, body-con fashion from Bally, Dolce & Gabbana, Maison Valentino, Rick Owens and more for up close and personal images by Jean-Baptiste Mondino./ Hair by Evanie Frausto; makeup by Jamal Scott
 

#RHOA: Kenya Moore Reveals Who She’s Closest to Ahead of the RHOA Season 15 Reunion
When Kenya appeared on Live with Kelly and Mark on July 26, host Kelly Ripa brought up one of Kenya’s areas of expertise. “You studied psychology at school,” Kelly pointed out. “I would think, being on The Real Housewives, that would come in handy.” (Kenya has a degree in the field from Wayne State University.
“You have a point,” Kenya conceded. “I actually wanted to be a child psychologist. But it kind of worked out because I think some of the girls [on The Real Housewives of Atlanta] act like children. So, you know, I get to treat them a little bit.”

When Kelly asked Kenya whether she analyzes her fellow castmates, the psychology savant replied: “All the time!” She added: “I think I have a little bit of a secret power. I can figure out their strengths, their weaknesses — sort of like a SWOT [Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats analysis] that you do in business.”
Kenya spilled more tea on the morning talk show, including which of her fellow castmates she considers a BFF as she heads into the reunion. “I am so close to Kandi [Burruss],” the haircare mogul said. “She’s one of my best friends on the show.” Kenya added: “I’m close to Shereé [Whitfield]. There’s [RHOA friend] Monyetta [Shaw-Carter]. I’m close to most of the girls.”

Kelly went on to ask Kenya how she deals with squabbles among her cast members. “You can’t choose a side, you just have to be neutral,” Kenya said. “Sometimes people try [to be neutral] and they fail, but I think I really… encourage them to come back together. But it’s difficult.”

Something that was not so difficult for Kenya: Pulling together a splashy, glamorous look for her talk-show appearance. If anyone can pull off neon green Versace first thing in the morning, it’s Kenya.
In a July 26 Instagram post shared to the morning show’s feed, the former beauty queen described her outfit of the day. She was wearing a velvety Versace dress, Christian Louboutin shoes, and Alexander McQueen jewelry.


#NewMusic from Tori Kelly Releases New EP “tori”

Musical sensation Tori Kelly has just released her new EP “tori” via Epic Records. The seven song set includes the hitmaker’s soulful sound with commanding vocals and infectious hooks.
“tori” is led by the first single “missin u” which released recently. It includes an eclectic mix of sounds which include pop, r&b and afrobeats.

STREAM HERE 
The new project represents the next chapter in her career with a new album to follow in 2023.


#HipHopNews: The Weeknd & XO Announce Paris Saint-Germain Jersey Collab
The Weeknd and XO announced an exclusive collaboration with Paris Saint-Germain on the heels of his two sold-out nights at the Stade de France on July 29 and 30 as part of the “After Hours Til Dawn” global tour. For the occasion, the Parisians are launching a PSGXO collector’s jersey, produced in a limited edition.

The new white 23/24 Nike outdoor jersey is stylized with the signature XO Records emblem. They will be on sale in the official stores at the Stade de France during the concert, then on psg.fr, and in the club’s official stores in Paris (Champs-Elysées and Megastore). The jersey was created in partnership with the Paris Saint-Germain partner Fanatics, owned by Michael Rubin.

Fabien Allègre, chief brand officer of Paris Saint-Germain, exclaimed: “Thanks to our partner Fanatics, we’re delighted to work with XO Records to bring The Weeknd limited edition jersey to Paris. He’s a huge artist with an exceptional career whose popularity transcends borders. It’s a great honor for the club to be part of the adventure of his tour, which stops in Paris this month. This is the kind of synergy that feeds our brand and makes us part of contemporary pop culture. With The Weeknd, Paris Saint-Germain is more popular than ever.”

La Mar C. Taylor, creative director/co-founder of XO, exclaimed: “We are so excited to collaborate with such an iconic brand that garners the respect that Paris St. Germaine does. Our two emblems next to one another is a pairing dream for us at XO.”


Ariana Grande And Ethan Slater Take 'Amicable' Break To Let Him Settle His Divorce

Ariana Grande and her boyfriend are rumored to be taking "amicable time apart" as he sorts out the details of his ongoing divorce. "The Way" singer, 30, is reportedly giving Broadway star Ethan Slater, 31, who co-stars with her in "Wicked", "space" to "work things out" with his estranged wife, Lilly Jay, as the former couple navigate their split and custody of their 11-month-old son, according to TMZ.

"Ariana and her 'Wicked' co-star haven't been in the same city for several weeks. Ethan's currently in New York, trying to navigate the end of his marriage with estranged wife Lilly Jay," sources told the outlet.
"Ariana is coming to Los Angeles this weekend. We're told she and Ethan want to see each other, but that's not in the cards for the immediate future."

Ethan, whose relationship with Ariana became public on July 20, has been in New York City hashing out the details of his split from Lilly. The actor earlier this week filed for divorce from his wife of nearly four years Lilly at a New York court.
A reason for the dissolution of their marriage was not made immediately available.

It does not appear Ariana and her estranged husband Dalton Gomez have filed for divorce.
TMZ has reported Ethan and Lilly have stayed in touch every day about their child. Lilly Jay has lashed out at Ariana for dating Ethan, branding the singer "not a girl's girl" and saying her family was just "collateral damage" in their relationship.

A source told Page Six, "She's telling Ethan and others that she only cares about protecting their child. She's rightfully upset because her marriage fell apart, but Ariana and Ethan didn't do anything wrong."
The insider added Ethan had been separated from Lilly for two months before getting into a relationship with Ariana. They said, "Ethan is trying to take the high road and hopes he can resolve this situation for the sake of their child."

Ariana's former love Dalton, 27, has reportedly been dating again for "months" since he and the pop star split in January after two years of marriage.


Sinead O'Connor Will Be Remembered At Tribute Concert
Sinead O'Connor will be saluted with a huge concert. The "Nothing Compares 2 U" singer was discovered dead at her new apartment in London aged 56 on Wednesday, July 26 after moving back to the capital for the first time in 23 years, and the gig could be held in her native Dublin.

While now is the "time to mourn," Dublin Lord Mayor Daithi de Roiste says he wants to show "appreciation for her art" at a later stage. "We could say, 'Let's have a big concert in the city' - but we have to appreciate how truly great she was first," he told the Daily Mirror.
A coroner has said the date of Sinead's death is still "unknown" after she was found lifeless by police at her south-east London flat.
Performers at a tribute concert could include some of the huge range of stars who have paid tribute to the singer.

Musicians from Public Enemy to R.E.M. have added to the flood of tributes pouring in for Sinead. Chuck D said on behalf of his group Public Enemy on the band's Instagram page, "Rest in beats and power #SineadOConnor who always brought the noise." He signed off his post with praying hands and white dove emojis.
Janelle Monae tweeted about how Sinead's most famous act was tearing up a picture of the Pope and saying "Fight the real enemy" on live TV.

Comic Rob Delaney - whose son Henry was killed by brain cancer aged two-and-a-half - referenced how Sinead's death came 18 months after the mum-of-four's son Shane, 17, took his life in January 2022 after escaping hospital while on suicide watch in his tribute.

He said on social media, "My son Henry listened to her and I think about him when I listen to her now. I was so sad when her son died. I love her she is my hero in art and honesty."
Singer ANOHNI said in an Instagram video, "I can't think of an artist who's given more than Sinead and I can't think of an artist who's been punished more than Sinead, for telling the truth."


Beyoncé’s ‘Renaissance’ One Year Anniversary Celebrate With New Collection At Tiffany & Co.

Exactly one year after Beyoncé’s Renaissance captivated the world, Tiffany & Co. commemorates the milestone by unveiling the Return to Tiffany & Beyoncé collection. This exclusive capsule revamps the luxury brand’s signature heart-shaped “Return to Tiffany” pendants, infusing them with Beyoncé’s iconic imagery and designs inspired by her dazzling world tour, including the notable horse from the “Renaissance” album cover and tour.

According to Variety, the profits from this limited-edition collection will be channeled into the About Love Scholarship program, a powerful collaboration between Tiffany & Co., BeyGOOD Foundation, and the Shawn Carter Foundation. These funds will expand on the $2 million previously pledged in 2021, aiming to provide scholarships to students pursuing arts and creative fields at five historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Lincoln University, Norfolk State University, Bennett College, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and Central State University.

This collection marks another milestone in the ongoing partnership between Beyoncé and Tiffany & Co., which started with the brand’s “About Love” campaign starring the incomparable singer in 2021. As the official jeweler of the Renaissance World Tour, Tiffany & Co. has adorned Beyoncé with bespoke creations that added an extra sparkle to her mesmerizing performances. The Return to Tiffany & Beyoncé collection celebrates art, creativity, and empowerment, uniting two powerful entities in a harmonious ode to brilliance and philanthropy.

The collection launched on Saturday, July 29, on Tiffany.com


Days of Our Lives Production Shutdown Extended In Wake of Controversy
As originally reported by Deadline, the long-simmering issue of Albert Alarr’s behavior bubbled to the surface when a round of layoffs at the show led to complaints which kicked off the 9-week investigation by the show’s distributor, Sony Pictures Television. What reportedly began as an exploration of issues related to women being disproportionally impacted by staffing cuts as well as pay inequity eventually spiraled into accusations from multiple sources about Alarr’s alleged inappropriate behavior.

“Corday Productions engaged Sony Pictures Televition, which distributes Days of Our Lives, to conduct an impartial investigation into this matter,” the production company told Deadline regarding the initial complaints and their reaction. “After a two-month investigation, the independent investigator produced a report with its findings. Based on those findings, Corday Productions has taken a series of actions designed to ensure a safe and respectful work environment.”

As to what those measures were, the company did not say, citing a “confidential employee matter.” Deadline did report, however, that Alarr was given a written warning and required to undergo training sessions.
In the days since the news broke, however, there has been a public outcry for Alarr’s dismissal, with a petition calling for his ouster already having collected just under a thousand signatures.

In a since-deleted Instagram story, Lisa Rinna (ex-Billie) said of a recent return to the show she’d called home for years, “I couldn’t believe the work environment. It was disgusting. I was shocked. I let many people know how I felt — Albert included.”
Her former on-screen love interest, Peter Reckell — who has played Bo on and off for decades — addressed the subject on Twitter. “We have learned disturbing news about the environment” at the show, he tweeted. “It’s shocking to all who care deeply about the show, its legacy and the audience who love it so much. With quick resolution, I hope to see a return to its past values of family and respect for all.”

Elsewhere, longtime castmember Arianne Zucker spoke directly to viewers regarding the backstage situation. “In light of the recent information,” she tweeted, “trust in knowing that your love and messages mean everything. Also, know that we are all supporting each other. Cast and crew! It takes a village. Just hang tight… “
Deadline reports that Alarr’s presence on the set has been reduced in recent weeks, although why is not entirely clear as the writer’s strike has impacted various aspects of production.

Although no reason has been given for the hiatus being extended, it is largely assumed it is so the higher-ups at the show and its production company can determine the best path forward in light of recent events.


Boxer Felix Verdejo Found Guilty In The Murder Of His Pregnant Girlfriend In Puerto Rico

Professional boxer Felix Verdejo has been found guilty of the murder of his pregnant girlfriend, Keishla Rodriguez. The trial brought to light a dark and disturbing tale of domestic violence and tragedy. The prosecution presented evidence that Verdejo had conspired with others to kidnap Rodriguez, who was carrying his child, and then brutally killed her in April 2021. Her body was found on May 1, 2021. This shocking crime has sent shockwaves through the boxing community and has shed light on the need for greater awareness and prevention of domestic violence.

Verdejo’s trial revealed the sinister details of the crime. It was alleged that he had enlisted the help of an accomplice to carry out the kidnapping, and then proceeded to beat and strangle Rodriguez before throwing her body off a bridge. This callous act of violence not only took the life of an innocent woman but also robbed an unborn child of their future. The jury deliberated for hours before reaching a unanimous verdict of guilty, holding Verdejo accountable for his heinous actions.

According to the Daily Mail, Rodriguez had met up with Verdejo to present him with the pregnancy test results, confirming that she was pregnant. She is believed to have hopped into his SUV where she was met by one of his male friends before being punched in the face and drugged. Wires were used to tie her hands and ankles as they later drove to Teodoro Moscoso Bridge where Verdejo was accused of shooting at Rodriguez and dumping her body in the San José Lagoon.
The case has sparked outrage and renewed discussions about the prevalence of domestic violence and the need for stricter laws and support systems to protect victims. It is a stark reminder that no one is immune to the devastating consequences of domestic abuse, regardless of their public persona or achievements. The fact that Verdejo was a successful professional athlete only serves to highlight the insidious nature of domestic violence, which can affect people from all walks of life.

While this trial has brought justice for Keishla Rodriguez and her unborn child, it also serves as a somber reminder of the countless other victims who have lost their lives at the hands of their abusers. It is crucial that society continues to address this issue head-on, providing support and resources for victims while holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

As the verdict was announced, emotions ran high in the courtroom. Family members of Keishla Rodriguez wept tears of both grief and relief, finally seeing justice served for their beloved daughter and sister. The guilty verdict sends a powerful message that violence against women will not be tolerated and that those who commit such crimes will face the full force of the law.

In the aftermath of this trial, it is a collective responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their gender or background. By raising awareness, supporting victims, and holding perpetrators accountable, we can strive towards a future free from the horrors of domestic violence.


Gabrielle Union & Dwyane Wade Dance the Night Away at Blue Note Jazz Festival
Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade really are couple goals! The loved-up pair proved just that while attending the Blue Note Jazz Festival on Friday night (July 28) in Napa, Calif. There, they were treated to a headlining performance from Mary J. Blige.
Gabrielle looked cute in a white crop top and a long blue jacket. She posted herself in front of Dwyane, who held her in his arms while they watched from the audience.

At some points, they danced along with the rest of the crowd. The lovestruck smiles on their faces didn’t leave once!


T.I. Says he Suffers from Memory Loss, Can’t Remember His Lyrics
*Tip “T.I” Harris says he has a hard time remembering his own lyrics due to memory loss. During an interview with HipHopDX at the 2023 BET Awards in June, the 42-year-old Atlanta rapper was asked to name his most underrated verse, and said he was unable to think of one because his memory is shot.

“I cannot answer that question definitively because I don’t even remember most of the lyrics that I wrote,” he said. “I still to this day hear a lot of songs that I’ve written, a lot of verses that I’ve spit and I’m like, ‘Damn, okay. I had a hell of a perspective at the time.’”

According to HipHopDX, T.I.’s memory issues and fear of forgetting his lyrics during a performance were behind his decision to try his hand at standup comedy.
According to Variety, the artist-turned-comedian will make his televised stand-up debut in Kevin Hart‘s upcoming “Comic View,” reboot, which reportedly taped on July 6 through 9 at the Resorts World in Las Vegas, NV.

Mike Epps is hosting the reboot from Paramount Global’s BET, which also include stand-up performances from Bresha Webb, Tommy Davidson, and Taccara Williams. “Wild N’Out‘s” D.C. Young Fly will also be make an appearance.
“I’m thrilled to partner with BET for the return of ‘Comic View’ as part of Hartbeat Weekend making this can’t-miss celebration of comedy, music and culture,” Hart said in a statement to the outlet. “Having hosted ‘Comic View’ in the past, I understand first-hand the incredible platform this franchise offers for comedians to showcase their talents on a national stage and I’m excited to continue that tradition in Las Vegas.”


Carlee Russell Arrested And Charged For Kidnapping Hoax, Facing Possibly Prison Time

Carlee Russell was arrested on Friday and charged with two misdemeanors for making false statements to the police. Hoover Police Department Chief Nicholas Derzis announced the arrest and charges on Friday.

“The story open wounds for families whose loved ones really were victims of kidnappings,” Derzis said. “Existing laws only allowed the charges that were filed to be filed.
Russell was charged with two class A misdemeanors, false reporting to law enforcement authorities and falsely reporting an incident, which can be punishable by up to one year in prison.

According to ABC News, prosecutors advised police on the charges that would be filed in the Circuit Clerk of Jefferson County.
On Thursday, Carlee Russell’s kidnapping story has taken the world by storm. Earlier this week, Russell’s attorney released a statement telling what the police claimed to have known all along, Rusell lied.
According to local station WVTM 13, Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis claims to have known the story was a hoax when they released the timeline and search history. Derzis said the police took the case as “it is what it is.”

He added, “The fact that I think last Wednesday pretty much showed that we knew that it was a hoax.” Russell was missing for 49 hours before reappearing at her family’s home.
Carlee Russell owned up to pulling a kidnapping hoax on Monday when Russell was supposed to meet with the police. Instead, she submitted a statement through her attorney admitting none of the kidnapping stories she told was true.
Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis read a statement from Emory Anthony read a statement from Russell on Monday:

“My client has given me permission to make the following statement on her behalf. There was no kidnapping on Thursday, July 13, 2023. My client did not see a baby on the side of the road. My client did not leave the Hoover area when she was identified as a missing person. My client did not have help in this incident, that this was a single act done by herself. My client was not with anyone or any hotel with anyone from the time she was missing. My client apologizes for her actions to this community, the volunteers who were searching for her, to the Hoover Police Department and other agencies as well as to her friends and family. We ask for your prayers for Carlee as she addresses her issues and attempts to move forward, understanding that she made a mistake in this matter. Carlee, again, asks for your forgiveness and prayers.”

Also releasing a statement was Russell’s ex-boyfriend, Thomar Latrell Simmons, who stated he was “blindsided” and “disgusted.” He wrote, “Thank you to all my family, friends, and the nation for support through this. “The severity in this matter has not been overlooked, and I deeply respect the genuine support shared during this situation.”

With the confirmation of a hoax, the question now becomes whether Russell will face charges. According to AL.com, no charges are currently lined up against Russell, but a meeting will occur between Derzis and Anthony about the case. In addition, Derzis is speaking with Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office in the Bessemer Cutoff about criminal charges.
Potential charges could be false reporting to law enforcement authorities or falsely reporting an incident. There is also the possibility of a Class A misdemeanor of false reporting to law enforcement, which is punishable by up to one year in county jail or a year of labor in the county.


Chick-fil-A Testing A Two-Story Location With Four Possible Lanes
Chick-fil-A is tapping into a high-end fast food experience with the construction of its two-story restaurant in Atlanta.
The chicken guru will open the doors to the enhanced location next year. The kitchen will sit on the top floor, with the meals being prepared there and rushed to team members on the first level for fast delivery to customers waiting in their vehicles. Guests can still order on-site or pick up their online orders from a designated mobile lane. In total, the concept has four lanes altogether to make the drive-thru process seamless.

Chick-fil-A’s two-story cafe is not the only innovation the company is testing. In its effort to accommodate patrons of all kinds, Chick-fil-A is also building a walk-up location in New York City. This will be exclusively tailored for the city’s massive foot traffic. Two-thirds of NYC citizens either walk or use public transportation, Walk Friendly reports.

Additionally, Chick-fil-A is looking into a pickup hub. This location won’t have cash registers or take orders. Instead, it will serve as a place to retrieve all mobile orders quickly. Food will be fresh and ready upon arrival. These unique set of ideas are all rooted in improving the customer service experience of the often busy chain.
“Understanding this desire for convenience, the locations for these tests were intentionally selected with the customers in mind, giving them more control over their desired experience and cutting down wait-time, while continuing to provide genuine hospitality and care to every guest,” Chick-fil-A executive director of restaurant design, Khalilah Cooper, explained in a statement shared on the company’s website.

As of now, it’s still being determined exactly when in 2024 the new locations will make their debut. Judging by the first look at the concepts, fans should be satisfied with this renewed emphasis on quality and speed.


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
I’m Confused AF

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HAVE A GREAT WEEK AHEAD ALL!!!
EFREM

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