Category: In The News

Economic, In The News

Guess what? We might be getting $5,000 checks soon!

LaShawnda

What’s the 411?

So, our favorite tech mogul, Elon Musk, runs the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He’s all about cutting down on Uncle Sam’s spending. Now, there’s talk about sharing some of those savings with “us” hardworking folks. They’re calling it the “DOGE Dividend.” Kinda cool, right? If they save up to $2 trillion (yes, with a ‘T’), we could each get a cool $5,000. Even President Trump is vibing with this idea! 1

But hold up…

Before you start planning that shopping spree, remember: this is still in the “let’s talk about it” phase. Some party poopers think it’s a long shot. So, don’t go spending that money just yet! 2

Got my check! Now what?

If (and when) that money hits your account, here are some smart moves to make it work for you:

  1. Stash it for a Rainy Day: Life’s unpredictable. Setting up an emergency fund can keep you covered when things get wild. Experts suggest saving enough to cover 3-6 months of your must-pay bills.
  2. Grow Your Green: You could think about investing in stocks, bonds, or real estate. It’s like planting seeds today for a money tree tomorrow.
  3. Bet on Yourself: Always wanted to start that side hustle or learn a new skill? Use this cash to make it happen. Investing in yourself is always a win!

Time to Reflect:

  • Dream Big: What’s that one thing you’ve always wanted but never had the funds for?
  • Debt Be Gone: Got some bills hanging over your head? Maybe it’s time to kick them to the curb.
  • Future You: How can you use this money to set yourself up for success later down the road?

Remember, it’s not just about the money—it’s about making choices that keep you shining bright like a Diamond!

Sources:

  1. Politico: Elon Musk expresses interest in sending out DOGE checks ↩︎
  2. Investopedia: What Is a ‘DOGE Dividend’? ↩︎
Kendrick Lamar
In The News, Political, Social

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show

LaShawnda

A Moment Bigger Than Hip-Hop

Kendrick Lamar shut down Super Bowl LIX with a halftime performance that was more than just a show—a statement, a clapback, and a cultural milestone all wrapped into one. On February 9, 2025, Lamar became the first solo hip-hop artist to headline the Super Bowl, and he made sure to use that platform to go beyond entertainment. From the song choices to the deeper messages woven into every move, Lamar was in his bag—speaking on resilience, legacy, and shaking the system from the inside.

But let’s get real—this wasn’t just about Kendrick. Serena Williams and SZA’s surprise appearances added layers to the story, and if you know, you know. Drake had taken multiple shots at both women in his music, and their presence at Kendrick’s show? That was chess, not checkers.

Let’s break it all down.

Opening with Fire: Samuel L. Jackson Sets the Tone

Before Kendrick even hit the stage, the energy was set by Samuel L. Jackson, who pulled up dressed as Uncle Sam—but in full Kendrick style, this wasn’t no patriotic lovefest. With that signature voice, Jackson threw a lil’ shade at conservatives who always find something to be mad about, then made it clear: this performance was about culture, not just music.

A Performance with Purpose

Kendrick’s setlist wasn’t just about the bangers; every track was a message. He ran through “Alright,” “HUMBLE.,” and, of course, “Not Like Us”—which had the whole stadium lit. If you’ve been paying attention, you already know: this song is a straight-up diss to Drake, and Kendrick made sure everyone knew it.

Before jumping in, he threw a jab:

“I wanna perform their favorite song, but you know they love to sue.”

No names, but we all knew who that was for.

And when the beat dropped? The whole crowd was chanting “We ain’t like y’all!”

But here’s where it got wild—Serena Williams stepped out, and that moment wasn’t just random.

Serena Williams: A Silent Clapback with Loud Implications

Serena pulled up wearing blue, and if you know her history, you already caught the layers. Back in 2003, her sister Yetunde Price was killed in Compton by a member of the Crips. And yet, here was Serena, rocking blue on the Super Bowl stage, crip walking to “Not Like Us.” That’s full-circle resilience.

But it doesn’t stop there. Drake, who once dated Serena, threw shade at her and her husband Alexis Ohanian in his 2022 track “Middle of the Ocean,” calling Ohanian a “groupie.” Now imagine the energy of her dancing to a diss track aimed at her ex? Pure pettiness, pure power.

Serena even laughed about it after, saying:

“If I did this at Wimbledon, I’d be fined!”

She didn’t have to say much. Her presence alone said it all.

SZA: A Performance with History

Then there was SZA, who joined Kendrick for “All the Stars” and a new track, “Luther.” But this wasn’t just about music—SZA and Drake have history, too.

Drake once bragged about dating her back when she was just a teenager on “Mr. Right Now” (which had people side-eyeing him), and SZA later confirmed it, making it clear they were both young. Her being part of Kendrick’s show? Another power move.

Her performance bridged R&B and hip-hop, blending raw emotion with Lamar’s high-energy intensity. And let’s be real—her voice softened the punch of Kendrick’s hard-hitting lyrics, adding even more depth to the night.

A Moment for the Culture

Before closing out, Kendrick took a moment to address the audience directly:

“Look past the distractions. Focus on what really matters.”

He’s been talking about power, industry games, and the system for years, and tonight was no different. This wasn’t just about proving that hip-hop deserves a Super Bowl stage—it was about reclaiming narratives, challenging the industry, and showing the power of culture.

More Than a Show, It Was a Statement

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show wasn’t just about football or music—it was about making history while throwing a few petty shots along the way.

From Samuel L. Jackson’s opening to Serena crip walking in blue to SZA’s poetic presence, to the entire stadium screaming “Not Like Us”—this was a moment for the culture that’ll be talked about for years.

Kendrick didn’t just entertain. He made HIStory.

I came across this video on TikTok yesterday, and I really liked how she broke down the performance. Click here to watch!

In The News

Tragic Mid-Air Collision Near Washington, D.C.: Latest Updates

LaShawnda

On Wednesday evening, a devastating mid-air collision occurred between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C. All 67 individuals on board both aircraft are presumed dead.

Incident Overview

The American Airlines flight, en route to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, carried 60 passengers and four crew members. The U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter had three soldiers on board. The collision took place around 9 p.m. local time over the Potomac River.

Recovery Efforts

Rescue teams have been working tirelessly under challenging conditions, including freezing temperatures and limited visibility in the river. As of now, 41 bodies have been recovered. Authorities have shifted from rescue to recovery operations, acknowledging the slim chances of finding survivors.

Investigation Underway

Investigators have retrieved the flight data and voice recorders from the American Airlines jet, which are expected to provide crucial insights into the cause of the collision. A preliminary report is anticipated within 30 days.

Official Statements

President Trump commented on the incident, suggesting that the helicopter “was flying too high,” though he did not provide specific evidence. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt stated that the president’s remarks were based on briefings he received.

Community Impact

The tragedy has deeply affected communities connected to the victims. Wichita Mayor Lily Wu expressed profound sorrow, noting that the incident unites Washington, D.C., and Wichita, Kansas, in grief.

As the investigation progresses, authorities aim to uncover the factors that led to this catastrophic event. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims during this difficult time. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Sources: Fox News and Wall Street Journal