7/21/24

The Daily Buzz For Jul 22☕📰☕

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#FASHIONFILES: Prada’s Fall 2024 Ad Celebrates The Power Of Conversation
Prada sparks a new conversation. For fall-winter 2024, the Italian fashion house launches a campaign that embodies its creative philosophy—a dynamic exchange of perspectives.
Ferdinando Verderi takes the reins as the advertisement’s creative director, driving the dialogue forward.

At Prada, human interaction is the lifeblood of fashion. It’s the cornerstone of the esteemed partnership between Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons.
This season, the focus shifts to the unique perspectives of Damson Idris and Harris Dickinson, who reunite with Prada alongside Hunter Schafer and Letitia Wright.
At Prada, human interaction is the lifeblood of fashion. It’s the cornerstone of the esteemed partnership between Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons.

This season, the focus shifts to the unique perspectives of Damson Idris and Harris Dickinson, who reunite with Prada alongside Hunter Schafer and Letitia Wright.
American filmmaker and writer Miranda July pens the script, exploring the profound power of communication that transcends eras and mediums.
As ideas are exchanged, individuality gives way to collective creativity. The Prada collective, a group of diverse talents, converges, embracing a season of sleek, polished designs that declare, “Now that we’re here,” the conversation has begun—and it’s only the start.

Explore Prada's spring 2024 advertisement, a series of portraits that blend the individual with the collective.


#RHOA: Drew Sidora Says ‘It’s Been Crazy’ Living With Estranged Husband Ralph Pittman Amid Divorce
Drew Sidora is keeping it real when it comes to her divorce from her estranged husband Ralph Pittman.
“It’s still not settled and yes, we’re still living together under the same roof,” Sidora, 39, told People in an interview published Friday, July 19.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta star went on to share that her current situation came as a bit of a shock, telling the outlet, “I didn’t even know that could happen. I was like, ‘What?’”
As for the living situation, even though the two are living in the same home they are not sharing the same bedroom.

“He is living in the basement, and that was court-ordered,” Sidora shared, noting that the situation has “just been crazy.”
“It’d be much easier if we were able to move on separately; you know, out of sight, out of mind, with your own space and your own energy. But that’s clearly not in the cards,” Sidora said. “So sharing space has been a double whammy.”

“We’re kind of, like, the blueprint for a s–tshow divorce,” she joked.
Pittman filed for divorce from Sidora star on February 27, 2023, as revealed in court documents obtained by Us Weekly. He marked their separation date as February 23 and declared in the paperwork that “there is no chance or hope of reconciliation.”

Sidora’s representative confirmed the split to Us, stating, “For three years, the Pittmans welcomed millions of viewers into their home as they struggled to repair their marriage. Despite undeniable differences, they agree that their marriage is irretrievably broken and are going their separate ways.”

The couple, married since 2014, share two children: son Machai, 7, and daughter Aniya, 5. Sidora also has an 11-year-old son, Josiah, from a previous relationship.
Their rocky relationship has been in the spotlight, especially during Sidora’s stint on RHOA. They briefly separated before she joined the show for season 13 in 2020, and season 14 featured a storyline where Sidora discovered Pittman sending inappropriate texts to an assistant.

“We’ve gone through counseling and we’re still in counseling so that’s nothing new, but as we grow each year, we learn things about each other,” Sidora told Us in May 2022. “And what you guys are seeing is really just our marriage. People that know us know that one day you’re good and one day you are not. Marriage is not easy. … We’re not willing to give up that easy and we’re pushing through and it’s not always nice. It’s not always easy and you guys just kind of have a front row to that. I sometimes hate that it’s all out there, but anybody that knows my husband, like, he does not put on for the camera.”


#MusicNews: Civil Rights Activist and Musical Icon, founder of Sweet Honey In The Rock Bernice Johnson Reagon Has Died at 81

Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon, civil rights activist, scholar and musician who started the vocal ensemble Sweet Honey in the Rock and co-founded the Freedom Singers and the Harambee Singers, died Tuesday at the age of 81. In the early 1960s, Bernice Johnson Reagon performed with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee’s musical group Freedom Singers, bringing liberation songs to marches, jails and organizing meetings. She joined Democracy Now! in 2008 to celebrate the life and work of another civil rights musical icon, Odetta, and recalled her own musical trajectory.

Bernice Johnson Reagon: “Sweet Honey in the Rock, which came out of a theater workshop, was going to be a cappella, was going to do songs that came out of the struggles and the stages of life of people, on a community-based level, calling people to pay attention to issues that we needed to be addressing as responsible citizens, and that singers, that artists really had a big role to play in challenging our society and culture to transform itself and to do better. And so, absolutely, the Freedom Singers and the freedom song in the civil rights movement is formative for me, both as a singer, as a composer and as a scholar.”

Bernice Johnson Reagon’s daughter Toshi Reagon, also an acclaimed musician, shared the news on social media Wednesday and included a quote from her mother: “I was here before I came and when I die, I am not leaving…”


#HipHopNews: Sean Kingston And His Mother Face Up To 20 Years In Federal Fraud Case

Sean Kingston and his mother Janice Turner have reportedly been charged with fraud by a federal prosecutor.
According to CNN, the “Beautiful Girls” singer was indicted by a Grand Jury in Miami for allegedly defrauding various businesses out of over $1 million. Charges were announced on Friday (July 19), hitting both Kingston and Turner with five counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The singer and his mother could face up to 20 years in prison for each count if they’re found guilty.

The report goes on to claim Kingston often used his celebrity status to persuade vendors to “stray from their regular business practices.” This includes providing high-end cars, jewelry, and other expensive items “prior to receipt of full payment.”

A court document released with the announcement of Kingston’s charges details his offenses. “The warrants for the state charges say that from October to March 2023, they stole almost $500,000 in jewelry, more than $200,000 from Bank of America, $160,000 from a Cadilac Escalade dealer, more than $100,000 from First Republic Bank and $86,000 from the maker of customized beds,” the documents outline.

Although Kingston has not released a full album since 2022, he alluded to his legal woes in his 2024 single “Why Oh Why” featuring NBA YoungBoy. “I’ma stay alive (Stay alive), to the end of time (To the end of time) / Living all day, want me dead, good luck keep trying,” he raps on the track. The visual showcases the emcee flexing jewelry, being detained at his Florida home, and hitting the studio clips with Chris Brown and other artists.

At the end of the video, a title screen displayed the words “Free Sean Kingston” and “Free Top,” a nickname for the enigmatic Louisiana-bred rapper, suggesting Kingston may have known he would shortly face more significant trouble.


President Joe Biden says he will end his re-election bid, and endorse VP Kamala Harris
President Joe Biden announced Sunday that he will end his presidential re-election campaign, bringing an abrupt and humbling conclusion to his half-century-long political career and scrambling the race for the White House just four months before Election Day.
Biden, 81, could not reverse growing sentiment within his party that he was too frail to serve and destined to lose to Donald Trump in November. He backed Vice President Kamala Harris to replace him as the Democratic nominee.

“While it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” Biden wrote in a letter posted on X. “I will speak to the Nation later this week in more detail about my decision.”

Biden thanked Harris for “being an extraordinary partner” in his letter and then endorsed her in a subsequent post.
"My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President," Biden posted. "And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year."

Biden and Harris spoke today ahead of the president’s announcement, according to a source familiar with the campaign.
His withdrawal caps a singular national political career, bookended by Richard Nixon’s fall and Trump’s rise. He mounted four presidential bids. He spent 36 years in the U.S. Senate representing tiny Delaware. He rose to the chairmanships of the powerful Judiciary and Foreign Relations committees. And he served eight years as Barack Obama’s vice president.

Reactions from politicians quickly began pouring in.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom wrote in a post on X that Biden “has been an extraordinary, history-making president — a leader who has fought hard for working people and delivered astonishing results for all Americans.”

“He will go down in history as one of the most impactful and selfless presidents,” said Newsom, who was one of the most prominent Biden surrogates. Newsom has also been floated as a possible Democratic presidential contender.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, another prominent Democrat talked about as a future national candidate, called Biden a “great public servant” in a post to X.
“My job in this election will remain the same: doing everything I can to elect Democrats and stop Donald Trump, a convicted felon whose agenda of raising families’ costs, banning abortion nationwide, and abusing the power of the White House to settle his own scores is completely wrong for Michigan,” Whitmer wrote.

The president's granddaughter Naomi Biden said in a post that she was “nothing but proud today of my Pop,” adding that he has “served our country with every bit of his soul and with unmatched distinction.” First lady Jill Biden posted her husband’s statement to X with a heart emoji.

Across the aisle, Republicans slammed the move and many called on him to resign his office, days after the completion of a Republican National Convention where speaker after speaker slammed the Biden-Harris ticket.

An unprecedented decision
Biden’s decision to exit the race less than a month before his party’s convention and a few months before voters head to the polls is unprecedented in the modern political era. The last sitting president to abandon a re-election bid was Lyndon Johnson, whose expansion of the Vietnam War in the 1960s split the Democratic Party. But Johnson’s announcement came in March 1968 — eight months before that election.

“We’re in uncharted waters,” said Barbara Perry, a presidential studies professor at the University of Virginia’s Miller Center. “No president has dropped out or died this close to the convention.”
Replacing Biden atop the Democratic ticket is likely to set off internal Democratic tremors as ambitious officials maneuver to become his successor. Factions have already formed around Harris and prominent governors, including Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer and California’s Gavin Newsom.

Harris would seem to be the heir apparent. She broke a barrier as the first female vice president. A woman of color, she enjoys strong support among African Americans, a loyal piece of the Democratic coalition.


Amazon Unveils Official Michael Jackson ‘Billie Jean’ Funko Pop
The officially-licensed collaboration finds the King of Pop depicted in Funko form and decked out in an outfit from one of the singer's most iconic music videos.
Amazon Prime Day deals are still live and one of the new releases on the site right now is a Michael Jackson Funko Pop figurine, modeled after one of the singer’s most iconic music videos.

The officially-licensed collaboration finds the King of Pop depicted in Funko form, with a vinyl figure decked out in a black suit, pink shirt, and bow tie inspired by the outfit worn by the singer in his “Billie Jean” music video.
The MJ Funko Pop measures approximately 4.45 inches tall and makes a great collectible for your bookshelf or coffee table. Part of Funko’s “Diamond Collection” of limited-edition toys, this release is also an Amazon exclusive, meaning you won’t find it anywhere else.

The Michael Jackson “Billie Jean” Funko Pop retails for $15 and is available to order now on Amazon.com. Amazon says more than 1,000 shoppers have ordered this mini figurine in the last month alone, making it one of their most popular products in the collectibles category.

The “Billie Jean” figurine is the latest Michael Jackson release from Funko, following a “Thriller”-inspired mini figure and a Funko Pop inspired by the all-white getup from the singer’s “Smooth Criminal” video. See the full collection of Michael Jackson Funko Pops here.
As with most Funko Pop releases, only a limited number of the MJ figurines are available for sale, so we recommend adding to cart before they’re all sold out. This follows the release of a Tupac Funko Pop in June.


Madonna’s son David Banda has chosen to scavenge for food
The 18-year-old musician is the adopted son of the Queen of Pop, 65, and has recently moved away from home to live with his girlfriend, but claimed that he doesn’t have enough money for food, even though his mother is worth a reported $850 million.
“I love it. I’m not on my own, I’ve got my girlfriend. But I love it. It’s lovely to experience it being nine o’clock at night, me being hungry and realizing that I don’t have enough money to get food and scavenging. It’s fun to be young,” he said when asked how he felt about living on his own during an Instagram Live.

Banda also used his brief update to his followers to confirm that the “Material Girl” hitmaker – who was initially married to Sean Penn from 1985 until 1989 and then to Guy Ritchie 2000 until 2008 – is not currently single and is seeing someone, but did not reveal his identity.

“Truth be told, she’s not single. She’s dating a guy . . .  That’s her life. She’ll do what she wants to do,” he said.
Meanwhile, the “Ray of Light” songstress was forced to postpone the beginning of her Celebration’world tour last June when she was became “seriously” ill. She did however express her gratitude that she has made a full recovery and enjoyed an “amazing” 12 months.

“A year ago today, I had just come home from the hospital after surviving a life-threatening illness, I could barely stand in my backyard holding one sparkler. I made a miraculous recovery and had an amazing year. Thank you God. Life is beautiful! Happy Fourth of July! (sic)” she reflected on Instagram along with a series of Independence Day celebration photos.


Halle Berry criticizes ‘Catwoman’ film

Halle Berry sets the record straight about her controversial film Catwoman.
The 57-year-old actress played the titular superhero in the much-maligned 2004 DC flick, and has now criticized the movie for being “a bit soft” during a retrospective look at the movie for its 20th anniversary.
“I always thought the idea of Catwoman saving women from a face cream felt a bit soft. All the other superheroes save the world; they don’t just save women from cracked faces.

“I always knew that was a soft superhero plight, but at that time in my career, I didn’t have the agency I have today or belief that I could challenge that, so I went along with it,” she said speaking to Entertainment Weekly.
Although she initially “didn’t love [the backlash]” the picture garnered, the John Wick: Chapter – Parabellum star insisted the negative buzz around the movie didn’t “derail [her],” and she was able to see the funnier side of things when she received the Razzie Award for the Worst Actress.

“I didn’t want to be casual about it, but I went and collected that Razzie, laughed at myself, and kept it moving.
“A little bad publicity about a movie? I didn’t love it, but it wasn’t going to stop my world or derail me from doing what I love to do,” she said.

Although she could laugh off most of the criticism, Berry admitted she hated that all of the backlash was chained to her, and added she loathed “that to this day, it’s [her] failure.”
“I know I can carry it. I still have a career 20 years later. It’s just part of my story.

“That’s okay, and I’ve carried other failures and successes. People have opinions, and sometimes they’re louder than others. You just have to keep moving,” she continued.
Catwoman director Pitof added the flick was “ahead of its time” because Berry “was the first Black female superhero [of the era], so people weren’t ready for that kind of movie.”

“Now, after some key movements, we have more diversity and inclusiveness. Younger audiences see things differently and are much more open.
“Back then, comic-book fans hated the movie because the film didn’t involve Batman; with a new generation, it’s not a problem,” she added..


Ms. Netta Draws Backlash After Sounding Off On Black Women, Says She Rather Be A White Woman ‘Cause They More Smarter’ 
Ms. Netta is under fire on social media after her little TikTok TED Talk about Black women, in which she admitted she would rather be a White woman.
The social media personality apparently got her high-waisted panty drawers in a bunch and took to social media to get a few things off her chest.

In her rant, Ms. Netta said: This is to all the Black African-American women…listen at me and listen at me clearly. 
If you don’t want me coming for you then just stop f**kin coming for me! Okay?
And then you want to put it out here, ‘Ms. Netta don’t like Black women, but that’s what she’s trying to be.’ 
No, it’s not! I ain’t trying to be no MF Black woman!

Cause I can say some of the baddest things about some Black a** women that I know. 
So, hell no I ain’t trying to be no Black woman.
If that’s the case I want to be a White woman.
Cause they more smarter.

Cause y’all act so damn ignorant and act like y’all don’t know how to get s**t.
And then you sit up and what s**t given to you all the damn time.
But, then you want to cry about it. 
So don’t look at me and try to belittle me because I get on here and I fuss at you MFs because y’all get on here and y’all do it.
Ain’t no White women on my page disrespecting me, cussing me out, and all up in me and my husband’s business.

Hell naw!
Cause they know how to mind they damn business.
But, you b**ches don’t.
Folks have taken to their Twitter timelines to react to Ms. Netta’s remarks in her TikTok video regarding Black women and White women.


Alec Baldwin And Wife Emerge On Red Carpet For First Time Since 'Rust' Case Dismissal

Alec Baldwin marked his return to the red carpet, exuding relief and a sense of normalcy following a turbulent legal battle over the fatal "Rust" shooting incident. The 66-year-old actor and his wife, Hilaria Baldwin, were seen at the HamptonsFilm SummerDocs screening of "War Game" in East Hampton, merely a week after Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter charges were dismissed.
The dismissal came amidst allegations that New Mexico prosecutors had concealed critical evidence about live ammunition involved in the on-set shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

The star, alongside his supportive spouse, donned a stylish ensemble for his public appearance, signaling a brief respite from his prolonged legal woes.
Baldwin's legal triumph was marred by emotional court moments, poignantly captured as he and Hilaria embraced in relief. The dismissal wasn't solely a quick procedural fix; it followed a contentious revelation that pivotal evidence had been withheld from Baldwin's defense team.

The withheld evidence, according to Baldwin's lawyers, pertained to live rounds mysteriously delivered to the sheriff's office months after the incident, which the prosecution deemed irrelevant. Nevertheless, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer concluded that this non-disclosure approached "bad faith" and was "highly prejudicial to the defendant," resulting in a dismissal with prejudice, preventing any re-trial.

On Instagram, Baldwin expressed gratitude to supporters although not without criticism. Gloria Allred, representing Hutchins' family in a civil suit, voiced her dismay, questioning Baldwin's empathy toward the victims' kin. The family plan to fight the actor in a civil lawsuit.

Prosecutors maintain they acted within their duties, despite the harsh judicial critique. Meanwhile, involved parties like Hannah Gutierrez, the film's armorer, assert the investigation's fairness, calling for her own case's reconsideration.
Legal dramas aside, the red carpet return symbolizes a possible shift toward rebuilding Baldwin's public and professional image. The legal saga, however, leaves a sober reminder of the incident's lasting impact on all parties involved and the quest for accountability and justice.


'Drag Race' Star Kennedy Davenport Reveals Miscarriage After Announcing Pregnancy News On The Show
Kennedy Davenport, a drag superstar known for her appearances on "RuPaul's Drag Race" and "Canada's Drag Race: Canada vs. the World," shared sad news on social media that she and her partner lost their baby while she was filming the second season of the competition.

The heartbreaking announcement came just one day after the premiere episode of "Canada's Drag Race: Canada vs. the World," where she announced her partner's pregnancy. She shared that she was in a happy and supportive relationship with a trans man and was expecting their first child.

"It's giving me motivation to win this $100,000," Kennedy had said at the time. "Because I have an addition to this family!"
In a candid update on an Instagram post, Kennedy expressed her desire to be transparent with her fans and community before attending the second day of RuPaul's DragCon in Los Angeles. She revealed that while she was unaware of the outside world during filming, she and her partner, Messia Adonis, had a miscarriage in March.

"We are both in a good head space now to talk and share," Kennedy wrote. "We believe that God has a plan for us and that what's meant to be will be. Our lives are dedicated to helping, uplifting, and encouraging others. We appreciate all the love and support you have shown us. Continue to put God first and have a great day."

Kennedy's appearance on "Canada's Drag Race: Canada vs. the World" marked her third time competing on a "Drag Race" installment, following her appearances on season 7 and All Stars 3.


Vanessa Williams shares highlights from her career

Vanessa Williams, the trailblazing first Black Miss America, recently shared a captivating collage of images and videos that chronicle her extensive career in entertainment, spanning over five decades. This collection includes memorable moments from her performances on Broadway to heartwarming holiday specials, showcasing her versatility and enduring appeal.

Iconic moments and memorable performances
One standout image from Williams’ collection captures her performance during the 1996 ABC special, “Vanessa Williams & Friends: Christmas in New York.” Here, she is seen performing alongside Shania Twain and Luther Vandross, delivering a soul-stirring rendition of “Do You Hear What I Hear?” to a packed Shubert Theatre. This image not only highlights her dynamic stage presence but also brings nostalgic memories of Vandross, whose expressions caught the eye of many fans.

Legacy of a trailblazer
Throughout her career, Williams has not only graced stages with her presence but also faced and overcome numerous challenges. Despite early controversies, she has emerged as a respected figure in the entertainment industry, continuously proving her critics wrong by embracing her natural aging process and showcasing her talents unabashedly.

At 61, Williams continues to engage with her fans, sharing aspects of her personal and professional life. Her recent posts reflect her active lifestyle and hint at new creative projects, including her first music release in 15 years, “Legs (Keep Dancing).” This new phase of her career is eagerly anticipated by fans who admire her resilience and charisma.

Continuing to inspire
Vanessa Williams remains a significant figure in entertainment, inspiring many with her ability to adapt and thrive in various artistic avenues. From her impactful Broadway performances to her recent ventures into music and fitness, Williams demonstrates that her journey is far from over, continuing to influence and inspire a new generation of fans and artists alike.


Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Justin Mikita Celebrate 11th Wedding Anniversary: 'Where Has the Time Gone?'
Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Justin Mikita have serious cause for celebration!
On Saturday, July 20, the Modern Family star, 48, and the producer, 38, marked a special milestone in their marriage: their 11th wedding anniversary.
Mikita celebrated the occasion by sharing an Instagram post complete with a side-by-side of the couple in the early days of their relationship and now — more than a decade since they first said “I do.”

Alongside a current selfie of the pair and a similar, smiley throwback picture, the producer wrote, “Happy anniversary @jessetyler. 11 years of marriage.. where has the time gone? 🫶🏻.”
Ferguson reposted Mikita’s sweet tribute on his Instagram Stories, writing, “11 years today!!!!” and shared an anniversary post of his own on Instagram.

The actor's post featured a black-and-white shot of himself and Mikita, which he revealed was a recent, vintage-style portrait the couple had taken in honor of their anniversary.

“Thank you for taking our 11th wedding anniversary picture @farmtoframes,” Ferguson captioned the post.
Related: Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Justin Mikita Bring In Halloween with a Roar as Dinosaurs with Sons Beckett and Sully

Mikita and Ferguson tied the knot at a New York City hotel on July 20, 2013. Reflecting on the special day in 2023, Mikita said  it was “a very hot night” that ended with an “afterparty at a hotel a few blocks away from the wedding venue."
Chiming in, Ferguson added: "It was always our plan to have people parade over to the afterparty. Our wedding planner, Bryan Rafanelli, had the great idea of handing out noisemakers to guests so we could keep the vibe alive on the walk over to the new venue."

The star also said the walk was his "favorite memory from the night," and revealed that the longtime couple still has a framed photo from this moment above their fireplace.
Years after getting married, Mikita and Ferguson expanded their family, welcoming their first child, son Beckett Mercer, in July 2020. More than two years later, in November 2022, they announced the birth of their second child, son Sullivan Louis.

Becoming a parent was "always in the cards” for the couple, Ferguson told PEOPLE after Beckett’s birth in 2020. But the timing had to come naturally, he explained.
"My husband's 10 years younger than me, so I sort of was waiting for his timeline to catch up with mine. I think I would have done this 10 years ago, but whatever, it's fine," Ferguson said at the time, adding, "Better late than never."


Richard Simmons’ Team Shares His Final Prepared Social Media Post 1 Week After Death

Richard Simmons is continuing to spread love as fans mourn his passing.
One week after his death, the late fitness guru’s team shared a previously approved post that Simmons had prepared before he died at age 76 on Saturday, July 13 at his home in Los Angeles.

“Richard worked very hard on his posts for you,” Simmons’ team shared Saturday on his X profile. “He had many ideas and would work ahead… going back to each one making changes until he had it just like he wanted before posting.
“As you know, on the weekends, he would just share a photo with a caption. He always chose his photos and wrote his captions for the upcoming weekend by Friday. So we have the post Richard planned to share with you last Sunday. We thought you’d want to see it,” they added.

The team then shared Simmons planned July 14 post, a photo of him in a NASA spacesuit, standing in front of a red rock backdrop. “Let me fly you to the moon so we can gaze among the stars. Love, Richard,” the caption read.

Simmons died a day after his 76th birthday. His body was discovered by his housekeeper, who called the Los Angeles Police Department to his Hollywood Hills home, where Simmons is believed to have died of natural causes.
Shortly before his death, Simmons thanked fans for wishing him a happy birthday. “Thank you… I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday,” he wrote on X.

Simmons’ final post was a photo of himself impersonating Barbra Streisand. “Hello gorgeous! Please don’t rain on my parade,” he wrote.


Brittney Griner and Wife Cherelle Welcome Their First Child
The WNBA star and her wife celebrate the arrival of their baby boy.
Brittney Griner and her wife, Cherelle Griner, are officially parents! The WNBA star and her partner welcomed their first child, a baby boy weighing 7 pounds 8 ounces, on July 8th.

In an interview with CBS Sports, Brittney shared her joy and how the arrival of her son has transformed her perspective. “That’s my man. He is amazing,” Brittney said. “They said as soon as you see them, everything that you thought mattered just goes out the window. That’s literally what happened.”

The baby’s name has not yet been revealed, but Brittney mentioned the difficulty of separating from him as she prepares for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. “It kind of sucks because I have to leave, but at the same time, he will understand,” she added.
The couple had previously announced their pregnancy on social media, five years after tying the knot. “Can’t believe we’re less than three months away from meeting our favorite human being,” they captioned a joint Instagram post.

The upcoming Olympic Games will mark Brittney’s first international travel since her arrest in December 2022 for possession of cannabis oil. She was sentenced to nine years in a Russian prison but was released after serving 10 months.
Reflecting on her ordeal, Brittney shared that she feared her marriage to Cherelle might not survive her imprisonment. “I might never see my parents again, and especially Pops [Griner’s father Ray] with his health issues,” Brittney wrote in her memoir. “My basketball career would be over. I’d be in my early forties and out of shape, would have to find a new way to provide for my wife. And Relle [Cherelle]. She assured me she’d wait, but ten years was ridiculous.”


Watch: The New Trailer for Milli Vanilli Biopic ‘Girl You Know It’s True’ From Vertical

You might need to from a certain era to know the story about the 1980s pop duo known as Milli Vanilli. Now the new trailer for the biopic “Girl You Know It’s True” is here and well, there you have it.
Tijan Njie and Elan Ben Ali, are new to Hollywood but they transform into the roles of Robert Pilatus and Fabrice Morvan, like nobody’s business.

Time for memory lane, Milli Vanilli had a hit record and they captured fans with their looks, style, and well singing voice … But if you recall, they were exposed as frauds. Get this, Milli Vanilli were lip-syncing to tracks sung by other artists. Whoops. At the time it was a BIG DEAL.
This pretty much ended their careers and sadly led to personal tragedies later on.
Okay onto the actors playing the tragic figures. 

Tijan Njie, from Germany, and Elan Ben Ali, from France, were selected after a year-long casting process spanning five countries. Damn!
But if you want authenticity, pun intended, the film also features Matthias Schweighöfer as Frank Farian, the German music producer and mastermind behind Milli Vanilli. 

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE Girl You Know it's True | Official U.S. Trailer (HD) | Vertical 
Simon Verhoeven was tapped to direct and wrote the screenplay for the film
Check out the official synopsis:
The film is centered around the true story of the notorious scandal involving dancers Robert Pilatus’ and Fabrice Morvan’s rise to fame in the late 1980s as pop sensation Milli Vanilli. Orchestrated by music producer Frank Farian, they became global stars with three No. 1 hits in the US. But only a small circle of insiders know that the duo is not singing but lip syncing to the voices of two other artists. At the height of their fame, Milli Vanilli win the Grammy Award but the situation behind the scenes escalates and the pressure on Rob and Fab grows. When the truth is revealed, they stare into the abyss while the world witnesses one of the biggest scandals in music history.

Producing are Quirin Berg and Max Wiedemann, along with Kristen Winkler overseeing the production. 
Kevin Liles, CEO of 300 Entertainment and a former member of the U.S. hip-hop group Numarx, who originally created Milli Vanilli’s hit song “Girl You Know It’s True,” serves as executive producer. Wow, didn’t know Mr. Liles was in their ecosystem way back when.

Brad Howell, one of the actual singers behind Milli Vanilli, is also producing, alongside Jasmin Davis, the daughter of the late John Davis, another genuine voice for the group. Associate producers include Carmen Pilatus, the sister of the late Rob Pilatus, former assistant Todd Headlee, and Ingrid “Milli” Segieth, who closely worked with Farian.


Megan Thee Stallion donates generators to seniors left without power after Hurricane Beryl
Megan Thee Stallion donated generators to seniors left without power due to Hurricane Beryl.
Megan Thee Stallion is giving back to her hometown of Houston, Texas after Hurricane Beryl left millions of people without power. The rapper, whose real name is Megan Pete, announced her foundation is partnering with the organization Bread of Life to launch the emergency power program.

The program will provide free generators to vulnerable senior citizens in the Houston area.
In a statement, Pete called it "painful" to watch the elderly population be without power in the wake of the storm.
The popular rapper established the Pete and Thomas Foundation in 2022 as a way to uplift and assist underserved communities, including senior citizens.


Illinois sheriff’s deputy charged with murder shot Black woman in face after she called police for help

An Illinois sheriff’s deputy charged with murder in the death of a Black woman shot her in the face during a tense moment over a pot of water in her home and then discouraged his partner from trying to save her, authorities said Thursday.
The details were in a court document filed in support of keeping fired Sangamon County Deputy Sean Grayson in custody without bond. County Circuit Judge Ryan M. Cadagin agreed, denying Grayson pretrial release at a hearing Thursday in Springfield.

In a courtroom guarded by a dozen sheriff’s deputies with three more patrolling the hall, Cadagin described the actions the former deputy is accused of as “such a departure from the expectations of a civil society.”
Sonya Massey, 36, was killed at her home in Illinois’ capital city, about 200 miles (322 kilometers) south of Chicago, after deputies responded to her 911 call about a possible prowler early on July 6.

Prosecutors alleged that after Grayson allowed Massey to move a pot of water heating on the stove and she set it on a counter, Grayson then “aggressively yelled” at Massey over the pot and pulled his 9 mm pistol. Massey then put her hands in the air, declared “I’m sorry” and ducked for cover before being shot in the face. Grayson also discouraged the other deputy from getting his medical kit, prosecutors said.

“The other deputy still rendered aid and stayed with Ms. Massey until medical help arrived,” First Assistant State’s Attorney Mary Rodgers wrote. Grayson “at no time attempted to render aid to Ms. Massey.”
The 30-year-old Grayson, who is white, was indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct. He pleaded not guilty in his first court appearance Thursday.
More than 30 of Massey’s family members and their supporters filled the seats of the courtroom Thursday, several of whom declined to comment afterward.

No one argued with the state’s contention that body camera footage of the incident upheld the first requirement in ordering Grayson detained — that there is a strong presumption that the actions alleged in the indictment occurred. Authorities said they plan to release the body camera footage publicly Monday.

“At no point did this defendant show anything but callousness to human life,” Rodgers said.
Defense attorney Dan Fultz argued for Grayson’s release, contending the state’s arguments fell short on other arguments. Fultz said Grayson is not a threat to the community because was compliant and turned himself in within a half-hour after his arrest warrant was issued.

He said the Army veteran owns a home in Riverton, a community just east of Springfield, with his fiancee, whom he plans to marry this fall. His detention would pose a burden on the county, he said, because of Stage 3 colon cancer diagnosed last fall that requires special medical treatment.

Fultz asked for Grayson’s release on condition that weapons be removed from his home, that he undergo a mental health evaluation and the be put on around-the-clock electronic monitoring.
Cadagin decreed that Massey, weighing about 110 pounds (50 kilograms), posed no threat to the 6-foot-3 (190-centimeter), 228-pound (103-kilogram) Grayson, who was armed and accompanied by another deputy, and after shooting her refused to render aid.

Sheriff Jack Campbell said Wednesday that Grayson was fired because it is evident that the deputy “did not act as trained or in accordance with our standards. … With our badge we accept enormous responsibility, and if that responsibility is abused, there should be consequences.”
Ben Crump, an attorney for Massey’s family, said the charges were a “step toward justice for Sonya’s loved ones, especially her children, who have endured unimaginable pain and suffering since they were notified of this tragedy.”

As many as 200 people gathered Wednesday at the Springfield NAACP building to express support for Massey and her family.
“I am enraged that another innocent Black woman had her life taken from her at the hands of a police officer,” Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said after the indictment.

Grayson is due back in court Aug. 26. He has been with the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department about 18 months, Fultz said, after serving as an officer with several other police agencies in central Illinois for about seven years before that.


Odell Beckham Jr. and Nike Each Proclaim They Won After $20 Million Suit Ends
Back in 2022, NFL star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. filed a $20 million lawsuit against Nike. 
Beckham Jr., accused the sneaker giant of withholding millions of dollars in a contract dispute. He alleged in his suit that Nike breached their contract and failed to deal fairly, claiming he was swindled out of substantial sums. Sounds like grounds for a lawsuit, from his perspective. 

Now the legal battle has now come to an end. A Multnomah County Circuit Court jury ruled that neither Nike nor Beckham breached their contracts. Oh …
As a result, neither party was awarded any monetary compensation, as the court found no damages. Not sure if that is a clear win for OBJ.

Expressing his relief and gratitude, Beckham took to Instagram to share his thoughts. He posted a photo of himself with his legal team, captioned:
“JUST DO… RIGHT @nike. I wanna take this moment to thank God first and foremost thank you Heavenly Father. I wanna thank my team for every hour they have spent preparing on this case. I wanna thank the jury for simply doing what’s right in a world full of wrong… my message to whoever needs this is, STAND UP FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN! JUSTICE WAS SERVED!!!”

Here’s how Nike responded to Beckham’s remarks, in an official statement:
“With this verdict, all of Mr. Beckham’s claims have been decided against him without any monetary award. The decision confirmed that Nike complied with its commitments. Nike is grateful to the jury and the Court for their careful attention to this case.”

One thing is for sure, the court decision brings closure to OBJ’s lawsuit that Beckham filed, concluding that no royalties were wrongfully withheld during his time as a Nike athlete. 
Whelp, there you have it.

AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Owning The Ankle Monitor 

There is a saying that we might have heard out there, or we might have totally made up, but “you can either own the ankle monitor, or you can let the ankle monitor own you”


HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM 

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